PMO sorry to hear of Powell's resignation

Sources in the Prime Minister's Office expressed regret last night at the resignation of Colin Powell as U.S. secretary of state. "We have lost a friend of Israel; ties with him were good and very warm, and we are sorry he has resigned," a senior official said.

"We are aware of the image created that Powell was less favorably disposed to us than other administration officials but this is not necessarily correct and stems from the fact that traditionally the secretary of state, by virtue of his position, has to express a position that is somewhat different of that of the White House," the official added.

Over the past four years, Israeli officials tended to be in touch directly with the White House or the National Security Council, often circumventing the State Department.

No change in policy toward Israel is expected in the wake of Powell's departure, and all the candidates for the position are considered friendly to Israel.

Sources in the Prime Minister's Office said yesterday evening they had not yet received official information that Powell intended to visit the Palestinian Authority or Israel.