BEIJING, Sept.12 (Xinhuanet) -- Palestinian officials have denounced Israel over its threats of expelling President Yasser Arafat.

    Palestinian Authority Cabinet secretary general Hassan Abu Lebda commented on Israeli Foreign Minister Silvan Shalom's speech, adding that it is the most serious and dangerous threat to Arafat, China Radio International reported Sunday.

    He called for international efforts to stop Israel from further damaging the Middle East peace process.

    Last Wednesday, Shalom said that the expulsion of Palestinian Authority Chairman Yasser Arafat is closer than ever.

    Since April 2002, Israel held Arafat in his office in Rammallah for two years and accused him of supporting terrorist activities. Enditem

    (CRIENGLISH.com)