Examine the consequences of the siege on Yasser Arafat's compound

Overview: Over the weekend, Israeli forces continued their attack on Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat's compound in Ramallah. According to an Arafat aide, "the situation is really dreadful" inside the compound. Have students research the events that have led to the Israeli forces' attack on Arafat's compound. Have students consider what might happen if the siege continues, if Israeli demands are not met, if Arafat is harmed, or if Arafat surrenders.

Have students read Israel halts destruction in siege and answer the following questions.

1. Who is Yasser Arafat? Why have Israeli forces laid siege to Arafat's compound in Ramallah? To what extent has the compound been damaged? What is the status of the Israeli attacks? How have Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza reacted to the siege?

2. How many people remain in the building that houses Arafat's office? According to Israeli officials, why are Israeli forces isolating Arafat? What demands have Israeli officials issued? How have Palestinian officials responded to these demands?

3. Have students work in groups to research the events that have led to the Israeli forces' attack on Arafat's compound. Discuss what both the Israelis and the Palestinians have to gain and/or lose if:

a. The siege continues

b. Israeli demands are not met

c. Arafat is harmed

d. Arafat surrenders.

Following the discussion, ask students to predict the outcome of this event.