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Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert leaves Jerusalem ahead of U.S. sponsored peace talks in Maryland that many hope will forge the creation of a Palestinian state. He leaves behind street protests - drumming home support for the plan. SOUNDBITE: Tzeli Reshef, resident of Jerusalem saying (English): "It is very important to demonstrate that the Israeli public is supportive of concessions in order to get to a peace agreement with the Palestinians. We hope that Olmert realises it when he goes to this very important mission." The Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas arrived ahead of Tuesday's talks - determined to seize the opportunity. The Islamist group Hamas have condemned the conference saying it will favour Israel, but Chief Palestinian negotiator Saeb Erekat said Hamas must not be allowed to sabotage the peace process. SOUNDBITE: Saeb Erekat, chief Palestinian negotiator saying (English): "I think we should reflect determination that this peace process must succeed. The freedom of the Palestinian people, the independent state is an objective every single Palestinian will want." Violence has surged in the run up to the conference. Israel has repeatedly attacked Palestinian refugee camps and its security forces are on high alert for attacks by Arab militants aimed at derailing the talks. Stuart McDill, Reuters