Arafat says attacks on Israel must be halted

Yasser Arafat called for an immediate end to Palestinian attacks against civilians in Israel yesterday. The appeal was his fourth since the 18-month intifada began.

Speaking after a suicide bombing in West Jerusalem, the Palestinian leader said he would "take appropriate and immediate measure to put an end to such attacks".

In remarks that reflect intense pressure from Washington, Mr Arafat said he was committed to a truce to end the conflict, which has claimed more then 1,500 lives.