TV evangelist Pat Robertson's proposal to build a Christian center in Jerusalem suffered a setback when Israel suspended talks with Robertson's representatives. Last week Robertson suggested that Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon's stroke was divine punishment for withdrawing from Gaza.

Robertson leads some evangelicals who have pledged to raise $50 million to build the Christian Heritage Center. Tourism Minister Abraham Hirchson said he gave instructions to “stop all contact” with groups associated with Robertson. Angell Watts, a Robertson spokeswoman, said his ministry will continue its “commitment to the Jewish people.''