Israel moves to mend NZ fences

The Government yesterday confirmed that Israel had made "approaches" about an apology to mend a diplomatic stand-off, but refused to say more while negotiations continue.

Prime Minister Helen Clark imposed diplomatic sanctions on Israel after two suspected Israeli spies were convicted of passport fraud last year.

Alleged Mossad agents Eli Cara and Urie Kelman spent six months in jail after stealing the identity of a tetraplegic man to obtain a false New Zealand passport.

This month they dropped their appeal, sparking speculation that an apology was pending.

Helen Clark's office confirmed yesterday that talks were being held, but remained tight-lipped about details.

The Government wants a "triple-A" apology before diplomatic relations will be restored and:

* Israel to account for what the agents wanted to do with New Zealand passports. This is the request Israel will have the most trouble with.

* An assurance that its agents will not try the same thing again.

* An apology for breaching New Zealand's sovereignty.

The Government also said it would decline any approach by Israeli President Mosche Katsav to visit New Zealand when he came to Australia next month.