The Israeli pullouts are clearing the way for some high level diplomacy. US Secretary of State Condoleeza Rice will make her first visit to the region next week, to try to revive the “roadmap” peace plan. Two days later, on February 8th, Prime Minister Ariel Sharon is expected to hold his first summit meeting with the new Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas. Abbas has persuaded terrorist groups to suspend attacks, and he hopes to persuade Sharon to agree to a formal cease-fire.