1.  What countries lie between Iran and Israel?  For a map of the area, go to World Atlas.

2.  Who is Mammoud Abbas?  What was his reason for requesting an end to the Palestinian bombing attacks against Jewish people in Israel?

3.  Who is Mahmoud Ahmadinejad?  What conference was Mr. Ahmadinejad speaking at hours before a suicide bomber killed five Isarelis in a marketplace?  What did Mr. Ahmadinejad say will happen to anyone who recognizes Israel?  And to any Islamic leader who recognizes Israel?  How should the world react to such remarks?

4.  Why does President Ahmadinejad's speech increase the concern that the U.S. government has about Iran's nuclear intentions?

5.  The 3 main terrorist groups in Palestine are Islamic Jihad, Hamas and Al Aqsa Martyrs Brigade. (Al Aqsa is loyal to Mr. Abbas' political party Fatah).  These groups attack Israelis with suicide bombers.  They murder civilians - women, children, senior citizens.  Mr. Abbas' plan is to disarm these terror groups.  Palestinian prime minister Qureia says the groups should be absorbed into the Palestinian security service (police).  Do you think this is a good solution to the problem?  Explain your answer.

5.  Is Mr. Abbas an effective leader?  Explain your answer.  What must Mr. Abbas do to move towards real peace?

6.  Yesterday's terrorist bombing of civilians was in retaliation for the death of a Palestinian terrorist leader who was killed when the Israeli military was attempting to caputure him.  What does this incident tell you about when the attacks will end?
Re-read the last paragraph of the article.  What clue does this give as to a solution to the problem?