Bush may be Backing Away from Road Map

By Guy Dinmore
September 06, 2003

Colin Powell, US secretary of state, reiterated this week that the US remained “fully engaged” in efforts to pursue the diplomatic “road map” for peace between Israel and the Palestinians.

But against a background of resumed Palestinian suicide bombings and Israel’s “targeted killings”, some officials say the White House is stepping back from the process.

President George W. Bush is unlikely, they say, to take the risk of pursuing a strong personal commitment as he embarks on the 2004 presidential election campaign. Indeed, one official said this week that the president’s personal involvement was already over.