DATE=MARCH 30, 2002

TYPE=CORRESPONDENT REPORT

NUMBER=2-288169

TITLE=BUSH MIDEAST UPDATE (S)

BYLINE=SCOTT STEARNS

DATELINE=WHITE HOUSE

CONTENT:

VOICED AT:

INTRO: President Bush says Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat must do more to stop attacks against Israeli civilians. As fighting continues inside Palestinian-controled territories, Mr. Bush says he understands Israel's need to defend itself but hopes Israeli leaders continue to pursue peace.

TEXT: President Bush says Mr. Arafat must do more to prevent attacks such as Saturday's suicide bombing in Tel Aviv. He says he is disappointed the Palestinian leaders is not making what he calls "one-hundred percent" effort to fight terrorism.

Speaking to reporters at his Texas ranch, Mr. Bush says Chairman Arafat has "got to speak up, got to make it absolutely clear" that the Palestinian Authority does not support terrorist attacks and will use its security forces to stop them.

With Israeli tanks inside Mr. Arafat's compound, President Bush says he has received assurances from Israel that the Palestinian leader will not be harmed. Mr. Bush says he respects and "fully understands" Israel's need to defend itself, but as it does, he says he is urging Isreali leaders to make sure there is a path toward peace.

The president is keeping special envoy Anthony Zinni in the Middle East to continue to work toward an Israeli / Palestinian ceasefire. (SIGNED)

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