61.  But as the Israelis began their withdrawal, Palestinian officials said Arafat was unharmed.

62.  But a fundamental tension has infused the efforts since Clinton, while in Lisbon, announced his desire for a summit meeting, Israeli and Palestinian officials said.

63.  But a Palestinian official said Barak has hardened his positions because of public unrest back home and the fact that many in his governing coalition have abandoned him.

64.  But despite officially cutting off contact with Arafat, Foreign Minister Shimon Peres told reporters Sunday that he has continued daily discussions with senior Palestinian officials.

65.  But both sides indicated a willingness to cool the rhetoric after a one-hour meeting between Israeli negotiator Dan Shomron and Palestinian official Saeb Erakat.

66.  But even late Monday night, Palestinian officials refused to say explicitly that he would do so.

67.  But in general, Palestinian officials defended the actions of their security forces.

68.  But instead of the calls for vengeance that have typically marked occassions of intense bloodshed, top Palestinian officials yesterday called for restraint.

69.  But latter-day arms smuggling, if conducted by Palestinian officials, would clearly violate agreements Arafat has signed with Israel.

70.  But one Palestinian official said the flareup appeared to be tactical.