The Foreign Affairs Minister and the Palestinian President have condemned today's attacks in the United States. During a joint News conference in the Gaza Strip, Brian Cowen and Yasser Arafat expressed their sympathy and condolences to the American people. Mr Cowen said all efforts must be made to find the perpetrators.
He said no words could encapsulate his sense of shock. In response to a question from RTÉ News, Mr Arafat promised to co-operate with the investigation in the attacks. He said they were a tragedy for the whole world and not just for the Americans.
Elsewhere in the region, Israeli forces have surrounded the town of Jenin, provoking gun battles with Palestinian gunmen. Hospital sources said that 12 Palestinians were wounded as Israeli tanks moved 100 yards into the Palestinian controlled city.
Israeli infantry units, backed by armoured cars and bulldozers, have surrounded Jenin, an army spokesman said. The overnight violence came as the Minister for Foreign Affairs prepared to meet more key figures in the Middle East conflict.
Last night Brian Cowen held what were described as "frank, useful and open" talks with the Israeli Foreign Minister, Shimon Peres, in Jerusalem. At a joint press conference he said the Irish Government was ready to help in the search for a political solution. He appealed to all parties to engage in dialogue despite the most difficult of circumstances.
His Israeli counterpart played down differences with Mr Cowen and other European politicians over the implementation of the Mitchell report. Mr Peres said his government had no problem with the report and its proposals for a cease-fire and confidence-building measures from both Israelis and Palestinians.
Shimon Peres and the Palestinian leader are said to be proceeding with plans for a series of face-to-face meetings. It is not yet clear when or where the meetings will take place.
