41.  Palestinian analysts said Wednesday that Arafat was likely to miss the end of April deadline agreed with Israel for changing the charter.

42.  Palestinian analysts viewed the creation of the party as in part an act of self-defense in the face of continuing Israeli pressure for even tougher action against HAMAS.

43.  Palestinian analysts agree that the future of the PA -- if not personally of Arafat, who is enjoying a strong rise in West Bank support -- remains bleak.

44.  Palestinian analysts say most PNC members are resigned to the idea of adopting a new charter.

45.  Palestinian analyst Eyad Assaraj said he was confident that Arafat would attend the gathering.