The election turnout was the lowest in the history of Israel, underscoring the polarization that marks politics today. Less than 60 percent of the electorate voted, compared with the usual turnout of around 80 percent. Among Palestinians living inside Israel, who traditionally form a large part of Labor's electoral base, the decline was even more dramatic, with a turnout of no more than 25 percent, compared with 75 percent in 1998. Entering the negotiations, Sharon had noted the schisms that weakened both parties. Ayyad was killed instantly.
Clashes frequently occur on Israel's border with southern Lebanon.
Six days later Israeli snipers gunned down Mahmoud Madani, a member of the Hamas nationalist Muslim movement, as he left a mosque in the West Bank town of Nablus. He was 25. Palestinian sources say at least 12 prominent figures in the occupied territories have been assassinated under Tel Aviv's orders. The deaths have sparked outrage among Palestinians. Ayyad's assassination was followed by protests and by exchanges of fire, including a major gun battle near Khan Younis in the Gaza Strip, which ended with dozens of Palestinians wounded.