Threat against Arafat puzzles press
Israel's press is unsure how to interpret Ariel Sharon's warning that he no longer considers himself bound by a promise not to harm Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat: some commentators think it is mere words, which could backfire on the Israeli premier, while others are not so confident.
Arab commentators have no doubts about Mr Sharon's sincerity, and there is a warning that the US would share the blame for any attack on Mr Arafat.
Sharon's declaration that he can harm Arafat was apparently intended to strengthen his standing among Likud voters before the party's referendum on the Gaza disengagement plan. Actually, Arafat's continued rule and his presence in the territories serve Sharon's interests: Sharon can say he has no Palestinian partner for negotiations. Sharon's statement does not reflect his true strategy - but his words create the negative impression that he intends to break his promise to [US President George W] Bush.
Ze'ev Schiff in Ha'aretz - Israel
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This time, in contrast with the precedent of the liquidation of [Hamas leaders] Yassin and Rantissi, the American reaction was quick, offended and blunt. What is the logic that drove Sharon now to release such a declaration in Arafat's direction and to hang it as a millstone round the US president's neck? Sharon, as far as the Americans are concerned, has behaved like a bull in a china shop.
Yediot Aharonot - Israel
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The whole security establishment is firmly opposed to the liquidation of Yasser Arafat. However, everything in the Middle East is in a state of flux. A traumatic event could throw everything up in the air. Ariel Sharon has already been here before with a determined decision to liquidate Arafat. Those close to him used every trick in the book to cool Sharon down and postpone this draconian measure. What will happen this time? It is not clear.
Ben Kaspit in Ma'ariv - Israel
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Despite the transparent timing of Sharon's announcement - as part of the steps leading up to the withdrawal from Gaza and part of the West Bank, and the referendum among Likud members - it should not be mistaken for a momentary whim. Sharon has been talking of his desire to get rid of Arafat for the past two years. Experience shows that such contingency plans tend to be carried out when the correct circumstances arise. Arafat will probably be in danger if for some reason Sharon has to quit office: he will be loath to return to his Sycamore Farm with his old enemy still in power.
Aluf Benn in Ha'aretz - Israel
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With the recent threats to assassinate President Yasser Arafat, Sharon has broken all international laws and norms. He has made clear the extent of his arrogance, in challenging the international community by implementing his law of the jungle... Sharon will not bear the consequences of what he is doing alone. He could not have continued with his trend of escalation without the green light from the US... It is for the US to know that what Sharon is doing will harm its interests in the region.
Al-Ahram - Egypt
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Nobody was surprised, in the US or anywhere else, when Ariel Sharon said he was no longer bound by his promise to President Bush about protecting Palestinian President Yasser Arafat. This announcement disturbed the White House leader. It also explained what Israel wants to carry out against Yasser Arafat in the coming period.
Al-Watan - Saudi Arabia
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Ariel Sharon spoke about a list prepared by his government of names of Palestinian personalities to be assassinated... The list has been approved by Sharon's government, and its aim is the killing of the whole of the Palestinian nation. This is being implemented on the ground, directly or indirectly.
Tishrin - Syria
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