Israeli Defense Minister, Shaul Mofaz, said on Tuesday that the Palestinian residents of East Jerusalem will be allowed to participate in the upcoming Palestinian Legislative elections scheduled for January 25, 2006.
Mofaz stated that the elections will be held the same way they were held in 1996, and in accordance to the same rules.
"The Israeli policy regarding the elections will remain unchanged", Mofaz said, "The residents will be allowed to vote in five post offices, east of the city.
Meanwhile, Palestinian chief negotiator Dr. Saeb Erekat said that the Palestinian Authority was not officially informed of this decision, "But if it is so, I welcome this procedure from the Israeli government".
On Monday at night, Israeli soldiers barred Ahmad Majdalani, head of Freedom and Social Justice Elections list, from entering Jerusalem in spite that he carried the needed entry permit; two supporters of the list were arrested in the city while placing posters for two candidates of the list.
