Israeli prime minister Ariel Sharon says his troops are preparing to withdraw from the West Bank, just as soon as soon as they've finished eliminating all churches, hospitals, and other threats of terrorism.

George Bush called Mr Sharon's response to the US demands "a start", but was angry about the speed of progress. "I meant what I said to the prime minister of Israel. I expect there to be a withdrawal without delay. I'm really not pleased about this. If Mr Sharon continues like this then I will be really really not pleased and might have to resort to jumping up and down in an angry way."

The Israeli leader went to on to agree to peace talks with any Palestinian representatives who were not from the Palestinian Authority. Observers suggest Mr Sharon might be referring to his friend Harvey the Rabbit.