US aid for the Palestinians?

Well blow me down, we have "pledged support in the amount of 20 million to aid the Palestinians out of a Financial crisis. I guess another trip across the lines might be warrented. I am a bit suprised that i did not hear about the first time. Now before you get exited, this is as of yet, only a pledge, and we know how our present administration honors its word.

The US government has pledged $20m (£10.3m) in direct aid to help the Palestinians out of a financial crisis.

It is believed to be only the second time in two years that Washington has transferred money in this way.

A senior administration official said the grant will provide emergency budget support, and recognises efforts made to shore up democracy ahead of elections.

Palestinians are preparing to vote on 9 January for a new leader to replace the late Yasser Arafat.

"The upcoming Palestinian elections have made a functioning Palestinian Authority more important than ever," an official told the BBC.

He said the Palestinian Authority was "in dire financial straits", barely able to pay its bills from month to month.

The money will be used to pay for utility services, including the payment of arrears to Israeli utility companies, the official added.

Well as long as the Isreali Utility companies get paid I guess all is well and good. I wonder if they will be upping their prices on Kilowatt Hours. I mean if its OK for Enron...........