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Israeli forces enter West Bank town

Israeli forces have entered another Palestinian town as part of their continuing offensive in the West Bank. The army said that its troops had detained at least 13 Palestinians suspected of terrorist activities during the incursion into Qalqilya and nearby villages.

The operation took place despite a call by US President Bush for Israel to complete its withdrawal from Palestinian areas in the territory. Mr Bush was speaking after five hours of talks in Texas with Crown Prince Abdullah of Saudi Arabia.

The Crown Prince delivered a tough message to the President, warning of grave consequences for American interests in the region unless the United States acted to restrain Israel in its current military offensive.

Saudi Arabia is Washington's most important Arab ally, but recent events have put a strain on their relationship.