James Rubin Time Quotations

the timetable for the ... grave situation we're in today.

The permanent status talks haven't begun. They're scheduled to end in a year. These are excruciating issues that are going to take a long time to negotiate. That is why I characterize the peace process in dire straits.

We think both sides need to understand that there is not that much time left for a negotiated solution which can give the legitimate rights to the people of Kosovo and protect the national interests of the Serbs, before we face the prospect of renewed and very dangerous conflict this spring.

The secretary is always hopeful but thinks significant gaps remain between the Israeli and Palestinian positions. She will work to overcome those gaps but at this time has no reason to believe we're in a position to bridge those gaps. She is nether optimistic nor pessimistic but believes the process cannot go on indefinitely.

It will take time for us to determine if there has, indeed, been a change in that policy. We are not yet able to say that such a change has occurred.

These kind of episodes have taken place. This is not the only example -- but it is the only time we've been able to match actual videotape with overhead imagery.