WASHINGTON?President Bush urged world leaders Wednesday to join the United States in demanding that Yasser Arafat crack down on Palestinian terrorists striking against Israel.

“He must show leadership. Now is his time,” Bush said, speaking of the Palestinian leader during an Oval Office session with Norwegian Prime Minister Kjell Magne Bondevik.

“And other nations around the world who are interested in peace must encourage Mr. Arafat, must insist, that Mr. Arafat use everything in his power to prevent further attacks in Israel.”

Bondevik said he talked by telephone with Arafat and Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon shortly before the meeting., and both leaders sent “fresh messages” to Bush.

“I have urged Arafat to do his utmost to stop the terror,” the prime minister said. “I’ve also urged prime minister Sharon to avoid further escalation of violence.”