RIYADH, Sept 23: With reports of movement on Arab-Israel peace initiative pouring in form unexpected quarters, a sense of urgency seems to be enveloping the Arab world not to let this opportunity go to waste.

The Saudi foreign minister, in a television interview, urged Palestinian leaders to find a united stance towards Israel and clarify whether they accept the Arab peace initiative of 2002 which proposed according recognition to the Jewish state.

Referring to the initiative for a Hamas-Fatah ‘unity government’ and the parties’ conflicting stands towards Israel, Prince Saud told Al-Arabiya television: “I hope that positions will become clearer because there is (now) an international consensus (supporting peace talks) and a serious chance to discuss matters seriously.”

He added: “If there is not a united Palestinian position regarding what they wish, a precious chance will be wasted.”

The Saudi minister told the Dubai-based television channel: “Hamas officials say they adhere to the decisions of the Arab League. Does that mean they accept the Arab initiative?” presented by Saudi Arabia at a summit in Beirut in 2002.

In March 2002, the Arab League adopted the Saudi proposal that would see the Arab world normalise relations with Israel in exchange for a withdrawal from all land occupied since 1967 and a negotiated solution to the Palestinian refugee issue.

Hopes for a peace settlement got an unexpected boost on Thursday with the publication of a story in an Israeli daily that Riyadh and Tel Aviv were engaged in talks through secret diplomatic channels.

And another indication of a thaw came when Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert spoke with reverence of Saudi King Abdullah in a recent television interview. The Israelis did not reject the Saudi-sponsored peace plan in 2002.

“Secret negotiations between Israel and Saudi Arabia,” headlined Yediot Aharonot, reporting that contacts had been established during the recent invasion of Lebanon.

Asked whether there were secret talks going on with Saudi Arabia, the Israeli premier was quoted as saying: “I don’t have to answer every question.”

However, Mr Olmert was quoted as saying that he was ‘very impressed with various acts and statements connected with Saudi Arabia, both those that were made publicly and others as well’.

“I am very impressed with King Abdullah’s insight and sense of responsibility,” he added, when asked about whether he regarded the Saudi initiative favourably.