The Palestinian Authority brushed off Sharon’s demands, which are in line with the US and European-backed “roadmap” peace plan. "If Israel wants to cut off contacts with the Palestinians, it will be its own decision and we will not cry," said Prime Minister Ahmed Qureia. At the same time, Qureia said the Palestinians are committed to the cease-fire declared at the summit in Sharm el-Sheik, Egypt nearly three weeks ago. “We say that there is an opportunity begun in Sharm el-Sheik and we want to develop this effort." Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas is reluctant to confront the powerful terror groups head on because he fears it would lead to civil war.