Palestinian Authority defiant as Israel warns of attack

RAMALLAH Ñ The Palestinian Authority has expressed defiance in face of Israeli military threats.

Forces loyal to PA Chairman Yasser Arafat staged a military parade in support of the mini-war against Israel and warned that attacks will continue. Scores of masked Fatah gunmen marched through the streets of Gaza City with semi-automatic weapons.

The gunmen also dismissed threats by Israeli Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Shaul Mofaz of Israeli reprisals for Palestinian attacks. One banner held during the march read, "The revolt will continue until the liberation of Palestine."

Hours later, Palestinian gunners fired mortars at the Jewish settlement of Netsarim in the Gaza Strip. Overnight Monday, a Palestinian was killed in a clash with Israeli troops near the West Bank city of Jenin.

Palestinian sources said the PA has accelerated preparations for any Israeli invasion. They said hundreds of PA military officers have returned from training in such countries as Afghanistan, Algeria, Egypt, Libya, Morocco and Yemen.

Israeli Prime Minister-elect Ariel Sharon accused Arafat of being behind Sunday's bombing in Netanya in which three Israelis were killed. The attack was launched by a Palestinian suicide bomber.

"Some of Mr. Arafat's most trusted forces are participating in these attacks," Sharon said. "This is very serious in our eyes. The government which I hope will be formed in a very short time will be able to find appropriate answers that will return security to the citizens of Israel."

It was the third bombing attack in Netanya since November 1999. Netanya is located about 15 kilometers from the West Bank.

Once again, Israeli officials raised the prospect of a military invasion of Palestinian territory. But they said such an attack must be carefully prepared and ensure that civilians are not harmed.