Olmert Hosts Abbas in Fresh Talks

The Israeli and Palestinian leaders have held talks in Jerusalem, the latest in a series to bolster Mahmoud Abbas's Palestinian government. The leaders did not issue statements after the talks, meant to pave the way for an international peace conference. Israel has backed Mr. Abbas since his Islamist rivals Hamas seized control of Gaza in June, but made few concessions.

Israel Arm Ousts Hebron Settlers

Israeli forces have forcibly removed dozens of Jewish settlers from two houses in the West Bank town of Hebron. They have been squatting illegally for months in the buildings, in Hebron's former wholesale market. Police used heavy engineering equipment to help remove the settlers who barricaded themselves inside the buildings, welding the doors shut.The Israeli army jailed 12 soldiers for up to four weeks for refusing to take part in the operation.