Israelis Uneasy as Jewish New Year Begins
Workers got bonuses from employers and shoppers scooped up gifts and food. Even so, a feeling of malaise cast a shadow over Israel as it prepared to ring in the Jewish New Year on Sunday.
The two-day Rosh Hashana holiday, which began at sundown Sunday, finds Israel where it was a year ago: in the midst of a political stalemate with the Palestinians. Few expect a breakthrough soon.
U.S. mediator Dennis B. Ross left for Washington on Sunday after yet another inconclusive peace mission.
Israel faces problems apart from the 18-month stalemate in the peace process.
More than 200,000 Israelis--representing more than 9% of the work force--faced the New Year holiday unemployed. Economists say Israel is in recession. The government is trying to reduce inflation by cutting spending; interest rates remain relatively high.
On the eve of the New Year--5759 by the Jewish calendar--Israelis crowded malls and open-air markets, stocking up on food and gifts. Businesses gave bonus presents to workers, some worth hundreds of dollars.
But there was tension in the air. On streets and in markets--as shoppers scurried around, sellers hocked their goods and children scooted underfoot--Israeli soldiers kept a vigilant watch.
The Islamic group Hamas had threatened bombings and kidnappings to avenge the killings of two members by Israeli troops.
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