U.N.: Palestinian Authority president gets hero’s welcome

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REPORTING FROM THE UNITED NATIONS -- Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas received a hero’s welcome Friday at the U.N. General Assembly after submitting a request for full membership in the world body.

The room was packed. Many delegates rose to their feet and applauded as Abbas approached the podium and when he asked for a favorable vote.

The delegates from Lebanon jumped up and clapped with gusto. Just in front of them, Israeli diplomats remained seated, looking uncomfortable.

Before Abbas’ address, Israeli officials had said that they were worried that he would go too far in his remarks, and perhaps set off violence.

American officials applauded respectfully, perhaps relieved that Abbas did not criticize them -- as many lower-ranking Palestinian officials have in recent days. Instead, Abbas said his team ‘sincerely appreciates’ the efforts of all the countries that have tried to make the peace negotiations work.

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-- Paul Richter