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The Jewish-Muslim dialogue was formed four years ago and, after a brief hiatus, reactivated two years ago. Its code of ethics calls for avoiding stereotypes and sweeping generalities, and emphasizes civil and respectful discussions.

It's not easy to obey these admonitions with passions running high in the Middle East. But, referring to Sharon's election, Al-Marayati said, "the dialogue was created to meet precisely such a situation."