1.  Define the following as used in the article:
-referendum, unilaterally (para. 5)
-defection (6)
-mandate (15)

2.  List the Israeli political parties named in the article, and the number of seats each won in the parliament.

3. a) How many members are there in Israel's parliament?
b) What is the name of the parliament in Israel? 

4. a) Why did Prime Minister Sharon leave Likud for the newly formed Kadima party?
b) What is significant about Kadima's victory?
 
5. a) What is Ehud Olmert's goal?  
b) How does he plan to achieve this goal?
c) What argument has Mr. Olmert made to Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas to encourage him to compromise?

6.  Do you agree with Prime Minister Olmert's argument?  Do you think that the Palestinians will agree to his plan?  Explain your answer.