DATE=3/13/02

TYPE=CORRESPONDENT REPORT

TITLE=BUSH MIDEAST (S update)

NUMBER=2-287526

BYLINE=PAULA WOLFSON

DATELINE=WHITE HOUSE

CONTENT=

VOICED AT:

INTRO: President Bush has delivered some of his harshest criticism to date of Israel, saying its recent actions are not helping the peace process. V-O-A's Paula Wolfson reports during a White House news conference he was asked about the Israeli crackdown on Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza the biggest such operation in years.

TEXT: The president has condemned Palestinian attacks on Israel on numerous occasions. This time he also had some tough talk for the Israelis.

////BUSH ACT///

I understand someone trying to defend themselves and to fight terror, but the recent actions are not helpful.

///END ACT///

He spoke as Mideast envoy Anthony Zinni was preparing to leave Washington for another round of diplomacy in the region. Mr. Bush made clear the retired Marine Corps General has Washington's full support as he seeks to create conditions for a cease-fire.

////BUSH ACT///

If I didn't think he could make progress, I wouldn't have asked him to go.

///END ACT///

General Zinni arrives in Jerusalem on Thursday. (signed)

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