Palestinians patients take part in a pro [Getty Images]

Palestinians patients take part in a protest against the Israeli siege of the Gaza Strip at the al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza City 05 November 2007. US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice met Palestinian leaders today to prepare for a Middle East conference after vowing to defend Israel's security but urging bold efforts to make peace. AFP PHOTO/MAHMUD HAMS (Photo credit should read MAHMUD HAMS/AFP/Getty Images)

AFP MAHMUD HAMS