Two Killed by Palestinian-Israeli Gunfire.

By VOA News

More violence has followed Israel's decision to suspend all peace-making contacts with the Palestinians until after the Israeli election next week.

Palestinian gunmen ambushed and killed a Jewish settler on a West Bank road that was built so settlers could bypass

Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak called off political contacts after Palestinian leader Yasir Arafat on Sunday accused Israel of waging what he called a savage and barbaric war against Palestinians for the past four months. Barak told Israel Radio Monday there was no point in continuing discussions, and he described Arafat's remarks as a mendacious attack on the state of Israel.

Palestinian and Israeli peace negotiators ended talks in Taba, Egypt, on Saturday night without an agreement. Barak's office said security contacts will continue. Arafat, despite his blistering comments, said he is still prepared to continue the peace process.

Israel's special election for prime minister is just seven days away. The latest public opinion survey in Israel indicates hawkish Likud party leader Ariel Sharon continues to hold a sizable lead over Barak. Sharon has said he would not be held to any peace agreement signed by the current government.