Quote: ""The big difference now is that Hamas is in power. And some of the Israeli officials who are examining this idea are realizing that what the Hamas offers in terms for a 10- or 15-year ceasefire is really not very different from what the (internationally brokered peace plan) Roadmap describes in its interim phase - it is just another name for a Palestinian state with provisional borders," said Khatib, who served under the previous Palestinian Authority government as labour minister. "There is an exchange of views happening because some people believe there is potential here."

Yesterday, the Israeli Prime Minister rejected Spain, France and Italy's proposed peace plan as "Spanish ideas", and stated that Israel preferred to negotiate with the Palestinians directly. 

Quote: ""The European Union initiative is not supported by the international community as a whole," the officials explained Israel's rejection of the plan. In addition Israel prefers direct dialogue with the Palestinians over mediation by foreign elements "that will only complicate matters."

But I am of the opinion the EU will not let Olmert press on with his own ideas, which have so far failed to bring any peace or security to Israel.

Source Toronto Star, YNet News