DATE=5/5/02

TYPE=CORRESPONDENT REPORT

TITLE=ISRAEL-PALESTINIANS (S)

NUMBER= 2-289437

BYLINE=ROSS DUNN

DATELINE=JERUSALEM

CONTENT=

VOICED AT:

INTRO: Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon is presenting U-S officials with a peace plan that proposes excluding Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat. But early indications are that Mr. Sharon will have a tough time convincing President Bush. Ross Dunn in Jerusalem has more on the story.

TEXT: Mr. Sharon is visiting the United States intent on proposing to Washington that the Middle East peace process be re-started without Mr. Arafat.

The Prime Minister wants to establish a regional conference of Middle Eastern states that would meet periodically to resolve problems.

Mr. Sharon believes that such a forum is the only alternative, following the collapse of bi-lateral talks with the Palestinians 19-months ago and the start of violent clashes.

As part of his information offensive, the Israeli leader is bringing a report that he believes contains "damning" evidence linking Mr. Arafat directly to terrorist attacks against the Jewish State.

Mr. Sharon wants to convince Mr. Bush that Mr. Arafat is no longer a worthwhile negotiating partner and should be replaced with a more moderate leader. (SIGNED)

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