8 may 2013
Newspapers Review: Settlements’ Freeze, Al-Aqsa Events Focus of Dailies
Two stories dominated the front page of the three Palestinian Arabic dailies on Wednesday. Al-Quds and al-Ayyam focused on reports that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered a temporary freeze on housing tenders in the settlements with al-Ayyam saying in the headline that Netanyahu was bluffing.
Al-Hayat al-Jadida reported on the provocations at al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem by dozens of extremist Jews that ended with clashes between police and Palestinians and the arrest of several people.
The three papers printed pictures showing police, who set up barricades around gates to the Mosque, preventing elderly people from entering the Muslim site.
The picture in al-Quds showed women suffering from the pepper spray police used against the Muslim worshippers at the Mosque.
The papers reported on Abbas’ visit to China and quoted him saying that he intends to visit Egypt within a week to discuss reconciliation with Hamas.
The papers also reported on the food poisoning case of 18 students at a Beit Ummar school.
The Hamas crackdown on a protest in Khan Younis, Gaza Strip, against the Israeli airstrike on Syrian was reported in the dailies.
Al-Hayat al-Jadida said in a story that Yousef Qaradawi, a Muslim scholar linked to the Muslim Brotherhood, is going to start later Wednesday a controversial visit to the Gaza Strip.
Al-Hayat al-Jadida reported on the provocations at al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem by dozens of extremist Jews that ended with clashes between police and Palestinians and the arrest of several people.
The three papers printed pictures showing police, who set up barricades around gates to the Mosque, preventing elderly people from entering the Muslim site.
The picture in al-Quds showed women suffering from the pepper spray police used against the Muslim worshippers at the Mosque.
The papers reported on Abbas’ visit to China and quoted him saying that he intends to visit Egypt within a week to discuss reconciliation with Hamas.
The papers also reported on the food poisoning case of 18 students at a Beit Ummar school.
The Hamas crackdown on a protest in Khan Younis, Gaza Strip, against the Israeli airstrike on Syrian was reported in the dailies.
Al-Hayat al-Jadida said in a story that Yousef Qaradawi, a Muslim scholar linked to the Muslim Brotherhood, is going to start later Wednesday a controversial visit to the Gaza Strip.
7 may 2013
Netanyahu Orders a Freeze on West Bank Settlements
Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu ordered a freeze on tenders for the scheduled Ma'aleh Adumim West Bank settlement construction (E1), following increasing international pressure to renew the Israeli-Palestinian peace process.
He gave the order to cease efforts during a meeting with the Housing and Construction Minister, Uri Ariel.
However, MK Ayelet Shaked (Bayit Yehudi) said it was a shame that the construction would not continue on the E1 settlements.
Ariel warned that the Bayit Yehudi party would not support the 2013 budget unless construction for the settlements was fully funded.
International pressure to cease Israeli settlements in the West Bank continues to grow after the Arab League modified the 2002 peace plan to include minor land swaps last week.
He gave the order to cease efforts during a meeting with the Housing and Construction Minister, Uri Ariel.
However, MK Ayelet Shaked (Bayit Yehudi) said it was a shame that the construction would not continue on the E1 settlements.
Ariel warned that the Bayit Yehudi party would not support the 2013 budget unless construction for the settlements was fully funded.
International pressure to cease Israeli settlements in the West Bank continues to grow after the Arab League modified the 2002 peace plan to include minor land swaps last week.
Palestinian factions: land swap ... an Arab Balfour Declaration
The vast majority of the Palestinian factions and leaders have rejected the idea of land swap between the Palestinian and the Israeli sides.
The Palestinian factions considered the Arab League ministers' approval of the idea of land swap a new "Balfour Declaration" offered for free by the Arabs this time, and said that it came to give a legal cover to the settlement activity in the West Bank and the occupied Jerusalem.
The head of the Political Bureau of Hamas Khaled Meshaal stressed on his movement's complete rejection of the land swap principle which has been recently put forward by the Arab League, and warned of its serious consequences on the Palestinian cause.
"We are against this move and against the persistent policy of waivers," Meshaal said.
Aziz Dweik, Speaker of the Palestinian Legislative Council (PLC), condemned this Arab position and said that "accepting the principle of the exchange of lands contributes to legitimize the occupation of Palestine."
For his part; Khaled Batsh, member of the political leadership of the Islamic Jihad movement, refused the idea of exchange of lands between the Palestinians and the Israelis.
Factions from the Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO) have also expressed their rejection of the position of the Arab League delegation.
The Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine saw this step as a prelude to legitimize settlement in the occupied city of Jerusalem and the West Bank, which violates the international law and the Geneva Conventions, and stressed that no one has the right give up any part of Palestinian land.
Qais Abu Leila, member of the Political Bureau of the Democratic Front for the Liberation of Palestine, stressed that the proposal of land swap is a new waiver for the benefit of the occupation and legitimize the settlement activity.
Palestinian political analyst Samih Hamouda, Professor of Political Sciences at Birzeit University, said that the position of the Palestinian Authority itself regarding the land swap initiative put forward by the Arab states seems to be ambiguous.
Nash'at al-Aqtash, professor of media at Birzeit University, told Quds Press agency that the proposal of the land swap is an Israeli idea presented by the United States of America to the Arabs who accepted it.
He pointed out that although all the Palestinian factions condemned this trend for its seriousness, the position of the Palestinian Authority was not clear.
Al-Aqtash noted that Israel wants through this proposal to promote the idea of the resumption of negotiations, stressing that "Israel does not want to reach practical results."
PLO's position regarding the Arab initiative for peace contrasts with the position of the Palestinian Authority. The positions were divided between for and against.
The Palestinian factions considered the Arab League ministers' approval of the idea of land swap a new "Balfour Declaration" offered for free by the Arabs this time, and said that it came to give a legal cover to the settlement activity in the West Bank and the occupied Jerusalem.
The head of the Political Bureau of Hamas Khaled Meshaal stressed on his movement's complete rejection of the land swap principle which has been recently put forward by the Arab League, and warned of its serious consequences on the Palestinian cause.
"We are against this move and against the persistent policy of waivers," Meshaal said.
Aziz Dweik, Speaker of the Palestinian Legislative Council (PLC), condemned this Arab position and said that "accepting the principle of the exchange of lands contributes to legitimize the occupation of Palestine."
For his part; Khaled Batsh, member of the political leadership of the Islamic Jihad movement, refused the idea of exchange of lands between the Palestinians and the Israelis.
Factions from the Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO) have also expressed their rejection of the position of the Arab League delegation.
The Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine saw this step as a prelude to legitimize settlement in the occupied city of Jerusalem and the West Bank, which violates the international law and the Geneva Conventions, and stressed that no one has the right give up any part of Palestinian land.
Qais Abu Leila, member of the Political Bureau of the Democratic Front for the Liberation of Palestine, stressed that the proposal of land swap is a new waiver for the benefit of the occupation and legitimize the settlement activity.
Palestinian political analyst Samih Hamouda, Professor of Political Sciences at Birzeit University, said that the position of the Palestinian Authority itself regarding the land swap initiative put forward by the Arab states seems to be ambiguous.
Nash'at al-Aqtash, professor of media at Birzeit University, told Quds Press agency that the proposal of the land swap is an Israeli idea presented by the United States of America to the Arabs who accepted it.
He pointed out that although all the Palestinian factions condemned this trend for its seriousness, the position of the Palestinian Authority was not clear.
Al-Aqtash noted that Israel wants through this proposal to promote the idea of the resumption of negotiations, stressing that "Israel does not want to reach practical results."
PLO's position regarding the Arab initiative for peace contrasts with the position of the Palestinian Authority. The positions were divided between for and against.
Abu Marzouk: Kerry's moves pose a threat to the Palestinian rights
Deputy head of Hamas's political bureau Mousa Abu Marzouk said that the moves being made by US secretary of state John Kerry to revive the peace process are grave and detrimental to the Palestinian rights.
Abu Marzouk stated on his facebook page on Monday that Kerry could not find a way to put pressure on Israel, but rather he found, as usual, that the Arabs were the supple part that could be pressured, and accordingly he took his steps.
Kerry managed to pressure the Arabs to accept the exclusion of Jerusalem from the coming peace talks between the Palestinians and Israelis through a document to be signed by Mahmoud Abbas and king Abdullah bin Al-Hussein under which Jordan would handle the issue of Jerusalem, the Hamas official underlined.
The official also said that the Arab peace initiative was also modified in favor of the Israelis and the talk about the 1967 borders was replaced with the proposal of swapping lands between the Palestinian authority and the Israeli occupation state.
He emphasized that neither the Palestinian authority nor anyone has the right to cede a grain of the Palestinian soil or the Palestinian refugee's right to return to their homeland.
Abu Marzouk stated on his facebook page on Monday that Kerry could not find a way to put pressure on Israel, but rather he found, as usual, that the Arabs were the supple part that could be pressured, and accordingly he took his steps.
Kerry managed to pressure the Arabs to accept the exclusion of Jerusalem from the coming peace talks between the Palestinians and Israelis through a document to be signed by Mahmoud Abbas and king Abdullah bin Al-Hussein under which Jordan would handle the issue of Jerusalem, the Hamas official underlined.
The official also said that the Arab peace initiative was also modified in favor of the Israelis and the talk about the 1967 borders was replaced with the proposal of swapping lands between the Palestinian authority and the Israeli occupation state.
He emphasized that neither the Palestinian authority nor anyone has the right to cede a grain of the Palestinian soil or the Palestinian refugee's right to return to their homeland.
Kerry to Meet Livni, Judeh in Rome Tomorrow
The US State Department said Monday that the US Secretary of State John Kerry will meet Israeli Justice Minister Tzipi Livni, who is responsible for the Israeli-Palestinian peace process, in Rome on Wednesday.
The meetings are part of Kerry's effort to find a way to revive Israeli-Palestinian peace negotiations, US State Department added.
The Spokesperson of the US State Department expressed his appreciation for the International efforts devoted to achieving peace in the Middle East and to the support of the two-state solution.
Kerry will also meet the Jordanian Foreign Minister Nasser Judeh in Rome.
The meetings are part of Kerry's effort to find a way to revive Israeli-Palestinian peace negotiations, US State Department added.
The Spokesperson of the US State Department expressed his appreciation for the International efforts devoted to achieving peace in the Middle East and to the support of the two-state solution.
Kerry will also meet the Jordanian Foreign Minister Nasser Judeh in Rome.
5 may 2013
Bardawil: Abbas's visit to China serves the occupation
Hamas leader Salah Bardawil warned that the visit of the PA President Mahmoud Abbas to China serves Israel more than the Palestinian cause.
Bardawil said that Abbas's visit to China which coincides with the Israeli Prime Minister's visit to the country, may be aimed at activating the economic normalization between Israel and China.
He demanded in statements to Quds Press the Chinese leadership to "continue to support the Palestinian right."
The Hamas official also called on China to not equate between the oppressed and the oppressor, and said: "China has been known over its modern history for its support for the Palestinian cause. However, we fear today that its economic interests with the occupation may drive it to favor the Zionist entity."
The Palestinian leader stated that the PA is encouraging China to move in this direction, through the secret negotiations, and stressed that the occupation is using the Palestinians as a bridge to strengthen its economic relations with China.
Bardawil said that Abbas's visit to China which coincides with the Israeli Prime Minister's visit to the country, may be aimed at activating the economic normalization between Israel and China.
He demanded in statements to Quds Press the Chinese leadership to "continue to support the Palestinian right."
The Hamas official also called on China to not equate between the oppressed and the oppressor, and said: "China has been known over its modern history for its support for the Palestinian cause. However, we fear today that its economic interests with the occupation may drive it to favor the Zionist entity."
The Palestinian leader stated that the PA is encouraging China to move in this direction, through the secret negotiations, and stressed that the occupation is using the Palestinians as a bridge to strengthen its economic relations with China.
4 may 2013
China proposes arranging Abbas-Netanyahu meeting
China has expressed readiness to arrange for a meeting between PA chief Mahmoud Abbas and Israeli premier Benjamin Netanyahu in Beijing.
The Israeli radio said on its website on Friday that a spokeswoman for the Chinese foreign ministry said that her country would be pleased to arrange such a meeting to contribute in pushing forward the political process in the region.
She said that Beijing could arrange the meeting in the event both Abbas and Netanyahu were willing.
Abbas is to visit China on Sunday on a three-day visit while Netanyahu would arrive on Monday on a five-day state visit, the first of its kind for an Israeli premier since 2007.
The Israeli radio said on its website on Friday that a spokeswoman for the Chinese foreign ministry said that her country would be pleased to arrange such a meeting to contribute in pushing forward the political process in the region.
She said that Beijing could arrange the meeting in the event both Abbas and Netanyahu were willing.
Abbas is to visit China on Sunday on a three-day visit while Netanyahu would arrive on Monday on a five-day state visit, the first of its kind for an Israeli premier since 2007.
3 may 2013
Haniyeh stresses on rejection of Arab peace initiative
Palestinian Prime Minister Ismail Haniyeh stressed on Hamas movement's rejection to the Arab initiative for peace with the Israeli occupation, and to the idea of land swap. This came during Haniyeh's reception of the solidarity convoys that arrived to Gaza and the two members of the Egyptian Shura Council Mohammed Saad and Kamal al-Din Nur al-Din, at his home in al-Shati camp in Gaza on Thursday evening.
"Our borders are the historic land of Palestine. The land belongs to us, and we refuse the Arab initiative," Haniyeh said.
He stressed that the new Arab position that supports the exchange of land represents an unacceptable waiver and encourages the occupation to continue the settlement activity.
Gaza Premier called on the Palestinian people to adhere to the option of resistance as it represents the strategic choice.
"What was taken by force can only be restored by force. Negotiations can never be the way towards the liberalization," he said.
"Our borders are the historic land of Palestine. The land belongs to us, and we refuse the Arab initiative," Haniyeh said.
He stressed that the new Arab position that supports the exchange of land represents an unacceptable waiver and encourages the occupation to continue the settlement activity.
Gaza Premier called on the Palestinian people to adhere to the option of resistance as it represents the strategic choice.
"What was taken by force can only be restored by force. Negotiations can never be the way towards the liberalization," he said.
2 may 2013
Bardawil: Hamas rejects any solution waiving an inch of Palestine
Senior Hamas official Salah Al-Bardawil said his Movement rejects any solution ceding one inch of the Palestinian land and believe that Palestine is not to be shared with the Israeli occupation.
Bardawil told Quds Press that the renewed move made by the Arab League to revive the peace process and its acceptance of land swaps are part of the Arab peace initiative which has been utterly rejected by Hamas since its emergence in 2002.
"The position of the Hamas Movement towards the Arab peace initiative has been clear since it started, that is, it has never accepted it and seen it as a waiver of the right of refugees to return and as recognition of the occupation," Badawil stated.
"We expected that the Arab League would withdraw this initiative, but we were surprised by this new overture which is based on swapping lands," he added.
"Neither this initiative nor any other will be successful since they go against the Palestinian people's rights," he emphasized.
Bardawil told Quds Press that the renewed move made by the Arab League to revive the peace process and its acceptance of land swaps are part of the Arab peace initiative which has been utterly rejected by Hamas since its emergence in 2002.
"The position of the Hamas Movement towards the Arab peace initiative has been clear since it started, that is, it has never accepted it and seen it as a waiver of the right of refugees to return and as recognition of the occupation," Badawil stated.
"We expected that the Arab League would withdraw this initiative, but we were surprised by this new overture which is based on swapping lands," he added.
"Neither this initiative nor any other will be successful since they go against the Palestinian people's rights," he emphasized.
Resheq slams PA for pledging not to move legally against occupation
Member of Hamas's political bureau Ezzat Al-Resheq denounced the Palestinian authority for promising the US not to take legal action against Israel at international courts and bodies as a goodwill gesture towards the peace process.
Resheq made his remarks in response to de facto PA foreign minister Riyadh Al-Maleki who stated recently that the PA pledged to US secretary of state Johan Kerry to freeze its efforts to join UN institutions and halt its intentions to file complaints with international organizations against Israel in order to revive the peace talks.
The Hamas official condemned such position as political disorientation and a waiver of the Palestinian people's rights.
"How come the people whose land is under occupation, their holy sites are violated and they are exposed every day to killing and arrest start to make goodwill gestures towards the occupation?" Resheq rhetorically questioned.
"20 years of frivolous negotiations which have brought the [Palestinian] cause to a deadlock are not enough for the Oslo team in order for it to start once again making political concessions as good faith gestures for the sake of talks exploited always by the occupation to impose more settlements as a fait accompli, seize more lands and Judaize Jerusalem!" he exclaimed
"There is no option for our people but to be united and devise a national strategy based on steadfastness and resistance in all its forms in order to confront the occupation, and its Judaization and settlement policies because the rights are taken by force and not begged," the Hamas official emphasized.
For his part, Yousuf Rizqa, the political advisor of the Palestinian premier, castigated the political pledges made by the PA to the US and described it as shameful.
"It is unfortunate that the PA leadership keeps hogging the Palestinian decision-making and act far from the will of the Palestinian people and without the participation of the factions operating on the ground," Rizqa stressed in a press release.
"This position only reflects a group of people monopolizing the authority and the representation of the people, and contradicts the popular and factional vision, which the Palestinian people dominantly share," the political advisor said.
He warned it is a grave mistake to use goodwill gestures in the management of the political conflict with the Israeli occupation.
Resheq made his remarks in response to de facto PA foreign minister Riyadh Al-Maleki who stated recently that the PA pledged to US secretary of state Johan Kerry to freeze its efforts to join UN institutions and halt its intentions to file complaints with international organizations against Israel in order to revive the peace talks.
The Hamas official condemned such position as political disorientation and a waiver of the Palestinian people's rights.
"How come the people whose land is under occupation, their holy sites are violated and they are exposed every day to killing and arrest start to make goodwill gestures towards the occupation?" Resheq rhetorically questioned.
"20 years of frivolous negotiations which have brought the [Palestinian] cause to a deadlock are not enough for the Oslo team in order for it to start once again making political concessions as good faith gestures for the sake of talks exploited always by the occupation to impose more settlements as a fait accompli, seize more lands and Judaize Jerusalem!" he exclaimed
"There is no option for our people but to be united and devise a national strategy based on steadfastness and resistance in all its forms in order to confront the occupation, and its Judaization and settlement policies because the rights are taken by force and not begged," the Hamas official emphasized.
For his part, Yousuf Rizqa, the political advisor of the Palestinian premier, castigated the political pledges made by the PA to the US and described it as shameful.
"It is unfortunate that the PA leadership keeps hogging the Palestinian decision-making and act far from the will of the Palestinian people and without the participation of the factions operating on the ground," Rizqa stressed in a press release.
"This position only reflects a group of people monopolizing the authority and the representation of the people, and contradicts the popular and factional vision, which the Palestinian people dominantly share," the political advisor said.
He warned it is a grave mistake to use goodwill gestures in the management of the political conflict with the Israeli occupation.
1 may 2013
Hamas slams Arab peace committee for accepting land swaps with occupation
The Hamas Movement strongly denounced the delegation of the Arab peace initiative committee for accepting land swaps with the Israeli occupation state.
"We, in the Hamas Movement, express our deep concern over the statement made by the delegation of the Arab peace initiative to Washington about its approval to swap lands with the occupation," Hamas stated in a press release on Tuesday.
"We hoped if the Arab ministerial delegation asked Washington to pressure the occupation to stop its settlement activities on our occupied lands," Hamas added.
"The long experience with the Zionist enemy has taught us that this enemy is looking for more concessions on our rights and our national constants. The occupation does not seek peace and only wants to impose a surrender on our people and nation," it emphasized.
"It is trying to gain time by talking about the illusion of peace in order to impose a further fait accompli on the ground."
In a sign that Israel will keep its large illegal settlements in the occupied West Bank, Arab foreign ministers have said that they are ready to endorse a new peace plan which includes land swaps and a Palestinian state built on the remaining land within the 1967 borders.
The announcement was made following a meeting held on Monday by an Arab delegation of foreign ministers led by Arab league secretary-general Nabil Al-Arabi with US vice president Joe Biden and secretary of state John Kerry in Washington.
"We, in the Hamas Movement, express our deep concern over the statement made by the delegation of the Arab peace initiative to Washington about its approval to swap lands with the occupation," Hamas stated in a press release on Tuesday.
"We hoped if the Arab ministerial delegation asked Washington to pressure the occupation to stop its settlement activities on our occupied lands," Hamas added.
"The long experience with the Zionist enemy has taught us that this enemy is looking for more concessions on our rights and our national constants. The occupation does not seek peace and only wants to impose a surrender on our people and nation," it emphasized.
"It is trying to gain time by talking about the illusion of peace in order to impose a further fait accompli on the ground."
In a sign that Israel will keep its large illegal settlements in the occupied West Bank, Arab foreign ministers have said that they are ready to endorse a new peace plan which includes land swaps and a Palestinian state built on the remaining land within the 1967 borders.
The announcement was made following a meeting held on Monday by an Arab delegation of foreign ministers led by Arab league secretary-general Nabil Al-Arabi with US vice president Joe Biden and secretary of state John Kerry in Washington.
Israel PM says territory not root cause of Mideast conflict
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday said the root of the conflict with the Palestinians was not about territory but about their refusal to recognize Israel as the Jewish state.
"The root of the conflict is not territorial. It started a long time before 1967," Netanyahu told top foreign ministry officials.
"The Palestinians' lack of will to recognize the state of Israel as the national state of the Jewish people is the root of the conflict," he said.
"The root of the conflict is not territorial. It started a long time before 1967," Netanyahu told top foreign ministry officials.
"The Palestinians' lack of will to recognize the state of Israel as the national state of the Jewish people is the root of the conflict," he said.
Minister: Israel will not talk on basis of 1967 lines
Israel will keep refusing to negotiate on the basis of a total withdrawal from land it seized during the 1967 Six-Day War, an Israeli minister said Wednesday after the Arab League modified its peace plan.
"If Israel agrees to come to the negotiating table while accepting in advance that talks would be held on the basis of the 1967 lines, there wouldn't be very much to negotiate about," said Gilad Erdan, a minister in the security cabinet and considered close to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
"We cannot start negotiations after agreeing in advance to give up everything," he told public radio.
His remarks came a day after the Arab League moderated the terms of its 2002 peace initiative.
The initiative will now incorporate the principle of mutual land swaps in the context of an Israeli withdrawal to the 1967 lines, in exchange for full diplomatic ties with the Arab world.
Netanyahu has so far categorically rejected outright any return to the "indefensible" lines which existed before June 4, 1967.
"I hope that Abu Mazen doesn't think that Israel will give up its positions and agree to hand over all the land where we believe we have a right to settle," said Erdan, referring to president Mahmud Abbas.
Israel hopes the principle of land swaps will allow it to retain the large blocs where most of the settlers live, while the Palestinians would be compensated by receiving territory currently under Israeli sovereignty.
The Arab League's acceptance of land swaps was welcomed by Israel's chief peace negotiator Tzipi Livni, but won a decidedly tepid response from a government official, who said specific positions would be unveiled only "when the negotiations start."
PLO negotiator Saeb Erakat also played down the significance of the move, saying it was merely a statement of the official Palestinian position which accepts the principle of "minor agreed border modifications."
US Secretary of State John Kerry, who is currently engaged in efforts to relaunch the stalled peace talks, believes the Arab Peace Initiative could provide a framework for a future peace deal.
Speaking on Tuesday, he hailed the move as "a very big step forward."
Israel's opposition leader Shelly Yachimovich hailed the Arab League decision as "important" and said it could "allow a restart of negotiations".
She also said that her Labor party would consider entering government if any of the more hardline coalition partners, such as Jewish Home which opposes a Palestinian state, threatened to bolt over a renewal of serious talks.
"If we get close to an agreement and Jewish Home threatens to leave Benjamin Netanyahu's government, we would positively consider the possibility of taking its place," she told public radio.
"Labor is not going to be the one blocking an agreement," she added.
"If Israel agrees to come to the negotiating table while accepting in advance that talks would be held on the basis of the 1967 lines, there wouldn't be very much to negotiate about," said Gilad Erdan, a minister in the security cabinet and considered close to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
"We cannot start negotiations after agreeing in advance to give up everything," he told public radio.
His remarks came a day after the Arab League moderated the terms of its 2002 peace initiative.
The initiative will now incorporate the principle of mutual land swaps in the context of an Israeli withdrawal to the 1967 lines, in exchange for full diplomatic ties with the Arab world.
Netanyahu has so far categorically rejected outright any return to the "indefensible" lines which existed before June 4, 1967.
"I hope that Abu Mazen doesn't think that Israel will give up its positions and agree to hand over all the land where we believe we have a right to settle," said Erdan, referring to president Mahmud Abbas.
Israel hopes the principle of land swaps will allow it to retain the large blocs where most of the settlers live, while the Palestinians would be compensated by receiving territory currently under Israeli sovereignty.
The Arab League's acceptance of land swaps was welcomed by Israel's chief peace negotiator Tzipi Livni, but won a decidedly tepid response from a government official, who said specific positions would be unveiled only "when the negotiations start."
PLO negotiator Saeb Erakat also played down the significance of the move, saying it was merely a statement of the official Palestinian position which accepts the principle of "minor agreed border modifications."
US Secretary of State John Kerry, who is currently engaged in efforts to relaunch the stalled peace talks, believes the Arab Peace Initiative could provide a framework for a future peace deal.
Speaking on Tuesday, he hailed the move as "a very big step forward."
Israel's opposition leader Shelly Yachimovich hailed the Arab League decision as "important" and said it could "allow a restart of negotiations".
She also said that her Labor party would consider entering government if any of the more hardline coalition partners, such as Jewish Home which opposes a Palestinian state, threatened to bolt over a renewal of serious talks.
"If we get close to an agreement and Jewish Home threatens to leave Benjamin Netanyahu's government, we would positively consider the possibility of taking its place," she told public radio.
"Labor is not going to be the one blocking an agreement," she added.
U.S. Welcomes “Modified” Arab Peace Initiative
The Arab League modified it Peace Initiative of 2002, allowing the principle of land swap between Israel and the Palestinians under a comprehensive peace agreement sponsored by the United States. The U.S. welcomed the decision and considered it a step forward.
U.S. Secretary of State, John Kerry, welcomed the modified initiative, and stated that this is an essential step that would help boost the efforts to resume the stalled direct peace talks between Israel and the Palestinians.
Kerry told the France Press news agency that, unlike the original initiative that only referred to the Palestinian territories Israel occupied in 1967, and the full Israeli withdrawal in exchange for Arab normalization with Israel, the modified version suggests and agreed upon land swap.
Chief Palestinian negotiator, Dr. Saeb Erekat, stated that the Arab League’s decision is not new, and that it reflects the official Palestinian stance.
Erekat added that Israel must officially recognize and accept the two state solution, leading to the establishment of an independent Palestinian state in the West Bank, the Gaza Strip and occupied East Jerusalem, and that the State of Palestine, can consider minor modifications on borders based on the principle of land swap without harming the Palestinian interests.
Israeli Justice Minister, Tzipi Livni, in charge of the negotiations file with the Palestinians, stated that the Arab League’s declaration is an important step, and added “Israel is willing to conduct the needed arrangements as long as the Palestinians return to the negotiations table with the intention of accepting certain concessions”.
She added that the statement of the Arab League sends a message to the Israelis, telling them “make peace and will be normalize with Israel”.
On Monday, Kerry held a meeting with the Ministerial Committee of the Arab League, headed by Qatari Prime Minister, Sheikh Hamad Bin Jassem Al-Thani, and Arab League Secretary-General Nabil Al-Arabi.
Following the meeting, Kerry told reporters that the U.S. values the role of the Arab League in the efforts to achieve comprehensive peace in the Middle East, and welcomes its new initiative to modify the Arab Peace Initiative that was adopted during the Arab Summit in Beirut in 2002.
On his part, Bin Jassem stated that peace between Israel and the Palestinians is a “strategic choice of the Arab world”, and added that the two-state solution must be based on the borders of June 1967, so that the Palestinians can establish their independent state in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip with East Jerusalem as its capital.
He also welcomed the statements of U.S. President, Barack Obama, regarding a limited and agreed upon land swap between Israel and the Palestinians.
The Arab Peace Initiative of 2002 offered Israel comprehensive normalization with all Arab states in return for its full withdrawal from the Palestinian and Arab territories it occupied in 1967, and calls for a fair solution to the issue of the displaced Palestinian refugees based on General Assembly resolution number 194.
Back then, the initiative did not include any land swap; Israel rejected it although it acknowledged its positive aspects, and said that it opposes the articles regarding the internationally guaranteed Right of Return of the Palestinian refugees.
The Palestinian Authority in the West Bank, and the Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO) had to quit direct peace talks with Israel due to Israel’s ongoing violations that include the ongoing invasions and assaults, Israel’s illegal settlement construction and expansion activities, and Israel’s refusal to hold talks on vital issues such as borders, refugees, and natural resources.
U.S. Secretary of State, John Kerry, welcomed the modified initiative, and stated that this is an essential step that would help boost the efforts to resume the stalled direct peace talks between Israel and the Palestinians.
Kerry told the France Press news agency that, unlike the original initiative that only referred to the Palestinian territories Israel occupied in 1967, and the full Israeli withdrawal in exchange for Arab normalization with Israel, the modified version suggests and agreed upon land swap.
Chief Palestinian negotiator, Dr. Saeb Erekat, stated that the Arab League’s decision is not new, and that it reflects the official Palestinian stance.
Erekat added that Israel must officially recognize and accept the two state solution, leading to the establishment of an independent Palestinian state in the West Bank, the Gaza Strip and occupied East Jerusalem, and that the State of Palestine, can consider minor modifications on borders based on the principle of land swap without harming the Palestinian interests.
Israeli Justice Minister, Tzipi Livni, in charge of the negotiations file with the Palestinians, stated that the Arab League’s declaration is an important step, and added “Israel is willing to conduct the needed arrangements as long as the Palestinians return to the negotiations table with the intention of accepting certain concessions”.
She added that the statement of the Arab League sends a message to the Israelis, telling them “make peace and will be normalize with Israel”.
On Monday, Kerry held a meeting with the Ministerial Committee of the Arab League, headed by Qatari Prime Minister, Sheikh Hamad Bin Jassem Al-Thani, and Arab League Secretary-General Nabil Al-Arabi.
Following the meeting, Kerry told reporters that the U.S. values the role of the Arab League in the efforts to achieve comprehensive peace in the Middle East, and welcomes its new initiative to modify the Arab Peace Initiative that was adopted during the Arab Summit in Beirut in 2002.
On his part, Bin Jassem stated that peace between Israel and the Palestinians is a “strategic choice of the Arab world”, and added that the two-state solution must be based on the borders of June 1967, so that the Palestinians can establish their independent state in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip with East Jerusalem as its capital.
He also welcomed the statements of U.S. President, Barack Obama, regarding a limited and agreed upon land swap between Israel and the Palestinians.
The Arab Peace Initiative of 2002 offered Israel comprehensive normalization with all Arab states in return for its full withdrawal from the Palestinian and Arab territories it occupied in 1967, and calls for a fair solution to the issue of the displaced Palestinian refugees based on General Assembly resolution number 194.
Back then, the initiative did not include any land swap; Israel rejected it although it acknowledged its positive aspects, and said that it opposes the articles regarding the internationally guaranteed Right of Return of the Palestinian refugees.
The Palestinian Authority in the West Bank, and the Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO) had to quit direct peace talks with Israel due to Israel’s ongoing violations that include the ongoing invasions and assaults, Israel’s illegal settlement construction and expansion activities, and Israel’s refusal to hold talks on vital issues such as borders, refugees, and natural resources.
30 apr 2013
Settlement Activity, Prisoners Issue Hinder Peace, says Abbas
Haithem Al-Misehal, killed today
President Mahmoud Abbas Tuesday said the ongoing Israeli settlement activity especially in Jerusalem and detention of thousands of Palestinian prisoners hinder the peace process.
Abbas affirmed in a press conference with his Austrian counterpart Heinz Fischer plans to establish the institutions of the Palestinian state, improve and develop the economy, maintain security and stability, and achieve the reconciliation.
He briefed Fischer on the latest developments in the peace process and discussed topics of common interest.
Abbas also reiterated intentions to resume negotiations based on international conventions, the two-state solution and the 1967 borders including East Jerusalem.
President Mahmoud Abbas Tuesday said the ongoing Israeli settlement activity especially in Jerusalem and detention of thousands of Palestinian prisoners hinder the peace process.
Abbas affirmed in a press conference with his Austrian counterpart Heinz Fischer plans to establish the institutions of the Palestinian state, improve and develop the economy, maintain security and stability, and achieve the reconciliation.
He briefed Fischer on the latest developments in the peace process and discussed topics of common interest.
Abbas also reiterated intentions to resume negotiations based on international conventions, the two-state solution and the 1967 borders including East Jerusalem.
Pope urges 'courageous decisions' in Mideast
Pope Francis called on Tuesday for Israel and the Palestinians to "resume negotiations" and "take courageous decisions", the Vatican said in a statement, after a meeting between the pontiff and Israeli President Shimon Peres.
"A speedy resumption of negotiations between Israelis and Palestinians is hoped for," it said.
"With the courageous decisions and availability of both sides, as well as support from the international community, an agreement may be reached," it added.
Such an agreement should "respect the legitimate aspirations of the two peoples, thus decisively contributing to the peace and stability of the region."
The meeting, the first between a leader from the Middle East and Francis, who was elected in March, came at a time of important developments in peace talks between Israel and the Palestinians.
Peres also invited Pope Francis on an official state visit to Israel.
On Tuesday, Israel's lead peace negotiator Tzipi Livni praised as "important" a concession by the Arab League that Israel and the Palestinians could trade land in a bid to move the peace process forward.
The development emerged out of talks in Washington between US Secretary of State John Kerry and an Arab League delegation to discuss the 2002 Arab Peace Initiative.
The proposal would see 22 Arab countries normalizing ties with Israel in return for a withdrawal from lands it occupied during the 1967 Six Day War.
During the meeting, Peres and Francis also expressed "worry for the conflict that plagues Syria" and hoped for a political solution to the crisis, the Vatican said.
"A speedy resumption of negotiations between Israelis and Palestinians is hoped for," it said.
"With the courageous decisions and availability of both sides, as well as support from the international community, an agreement may be reached," it added.
Such an agreement should "respect the legitimate aspirations of the two peoples, thus decisively contributing to the peace and stability of the region."
The meeting, the first between a leader from the Middle East and Francis, who was elected in March, came at a time of important developments in peace talks between Israel and the Palestinians.
Peres also invited Pope Francis on an official state visit to Israel.
On Tuesday, Israel's lead peace negotiator Tzipi Livni praised as "important" a concession by the Arab League that Israel and the Palestinians could trade land in a bid to move the peace process forward.
The development emerged out of talks in Washington between US Secretary of State John Kerry and an Arab League delegation to discuss the 2002 Arab Peace Initiative.
The proposal would see 22 Arab countries normalizing ties with Israel in return for a withdrawal from lands it occupied during the 1967 Six Day War.
During the meeting, Peres and Francis also expressed "worry for the conflict that plagues Syria" and hoped for a political solution to the crisis, the Vatican said.
27 apr 2013
Shaath calls for larger China role in peace process
Senior Fatah official Nabil Shaath on Saturday called for China to play a larger role in the Middle East peace process, a statement said.
Shaath made the comments during a meeting with a Chinese delegation in Ramallah, adding that as a world superpower China could play an active role in peace efforts between Palestinians and Israelis.
US peace efforts, spearheaded by secretary of state John Kerry, have not led to serious pressure for Israel to withdraw from occupied Palestinian territories and engage in peace talks, Shaath said.
The Fatah official praised relations between China and Palestine, with Chinese officials reaffirming their support for a Palestinian state on 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital.
Shaath made the comments during a meeting with a Chinese delegation in Ramallah, adding that as a world superpower China could play an active role in peace efforts between Palestinians and Israelis.
US peace efforts, spearheaded by secretary of state John Kerry, have not led to serious pressure for Israel to withdraw from occupied Palestinian territories and engage in peace talks, Shaath said.
The Fatah official praised relations between China and Palestine, with Chinese officials reaffirming their support for a Palestinian state on 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital.
Abbas says prisoner release crucial to peace efforts
The release of Palestinian prisoners will reflect Israel's commitment to peace talks, president Mahmoud Abbas said Saturday during a conference in Ramallah.
Abbas made the comments in a prerecorded speech played at the opening session of the Freedom and Dignity conference to mark the 11th year since Israel's arrest of Fatah leader Marwan Barghouti, official news agency Wafa reported.
Israel must be held accountable for its crimes, Abbas said, adding that as a non-member observer state Palestine has "the freedom to take legal action at any international forum."
Vice President of the European Parliament, Isabelle Durant, said in an address to the audience that Israel must be held accountable for holding prisoners under administrative detention, calling it a human rights issue.
Former US President Jimmy Carter said in a recorded speech that Israel must stop settlement construction and stressed the importance of Palestinian prisoners in future peace talks.
Caretaker prime minister Salam Fayyad said that the meeting was proof in itself that Palestinian prisoners are not alone, while PA minister for detainees Issa Qaraqe spoke to the audience about rights violations in Israeli jails and the practice of arresting minors.
Peace can not be accomplished as long as Israel continues to hold Palestinians in jail, Qaraqe added.
There are 4,900 Palestinian prisoners in Israeli prisons and detention centers, including 168 administrative detainees, 14 women and 236 children, according to Addameer.
Abbas made the comments in a prerecorded speech played at the opening session of the Freedom and Dignity conference to mark the 11th year since Israel's arrest of Fatah leader Marwan Barghouti, official news agency Wafa reported.
Israel must be held accountable for its crimes, Abbas said, adding that as a non-member observer state Palestine has "the freedom to take legal action at any international forum."
Vice President of the European Parliament, Isabelle Durant, said in an address to the audience that Israel must be held accountable for holding prisoners under administrative detention, calling it a human rights issue.
Former US President Jimmy Carter said in a recorded speech that Israel must stop settlement construction and stressed the importance of Palestinian prisoners in future peace talks.
Caretaker prime minister Salam Fayyad said that the meeting was proof in itself that Palestinian prisoners are not alone, while PA minister for detainees Issa Qaraqe spoke to the audience about rights violations in Israeli jails and the practice of arresting minors.
Peace can not be accomplished as long as Israel continues to hold Palestinians in jail, Qaraqe added.
There are 4,900 Palestinian prisoners in Israeli prisons and detention centers, including 168 administrative detainees, 14 women and 236 children, according to Addameer.
21 apr 2013
PA official: No progress in Abbas, Kerry meeting
A meeting on Sunday between president Abbas and US Secretary of State John Kerry failed to make any progress on Palestinian conditions to restart talks with Israel, the PA ambassador to Turkey said.
Nabil Maarouf told Ma'an that the Istanbul meeting did not address Palestinian concerns about a halt to settlement activity and the release of prisoners before any possible peace talks.
However, the US secretary of state promised to help economic development and investment in the West Bank, Maarouf said.
Kerry also set a timeline for peace talks, encouraging both sides to resume negotiations by the end of May. Future meetings with the US official will determine Abbas' next steps in terms of negotiations, Maarouf said.
The PA ambassador said that Abbas and Kerry did not discuss the upcoming visit to Gaza of Turkish PM Recep Tayyip Erdogan, but Abbas had previously contacted Turkish officials to ask that they postpone the visit.
On Sunday, Hamas slammed US Secretary of State John Kerry for urging the Turkish prime minister to delay a visit to the coastal territory.
Kerry told reporters on Sunday he had asked the Turkish PM to wait for the "right conditions" before going ahead with a planned visit next month to Gaza.
Nabil Maarouf told Ma'an that the Istanbul meeting did not address Palestinian concerns about a halt to settlement activity and the release of prisoners before any possible peace talks.
However, the US secretary of state promised to help economic development and investment in the West Bank, Maarouf said.
Kerry also set a timeline for peace talks, encouraging both sides to resume negotiations by the end of May. Future meetings with the US official will determine Abbas' next steps in terms of negotiations, Maarouf said.
The PA ambassador said that Abbas and Kerry did not discuss the upcoming visit to Gaza of Turkish PM Recep Tayyip Erdogan, but Abbas had previously contacted Turkish officials to ask that they postpone the visit.
On Sunday, Hamas slammed US Secretary of State John Kerry for urging the Turkish prime minister to delay a visit to the coastal territory.
Kerry told reporters on Sunday he had asked the Turkish PM to wait for the "right conditions" before going ahead with a planned visit next month to Gaza.
17 apr 2013
Only 2 years left for Mideast deal, Kerry warns
US Secretary of State John Kerry again warned Wednesday that time was slipping away to reach a Middle East peace deal, but for the first time said there may only be a year or two left.
Appearing before US lawmakers for the first time since becoming America's top diplomat in February, Kerry said his three trips to the region already were proof of his commitment to try to find a way to resume peace talks.
The Obama administration is "trying to find out what is possible," Kerry told the House foreign affairs committee, as he laid out the State Department's priorities for the 2014 budget.
He stressed he had no plan so far to lay out before Congress "because we're in the process of working that out with the critical parties."
"But I can guarantee you that I am committed to this, because I believe the window for a two-state solution is shutting. I think we have some period of time -- a year to year-and-a-half to two years -- or it's over," Kerry warned.
Kerry, who has just returned from his fourth overseas trip during which he traveled to both Israel and the Palestinian territories, said he had found on both sides "a seriousness of purpose, a commitment to explore how we actually get to a negotiation."
"We all have some homework to do. We're doing that homework. And I ask you simply give us a little bit of time here," he added.
The top US diplomat is currently working on a plan -- to run alongside the political peace process -- to try to boost the Palestinian economy as part of efforts to restore some trust between the two sides.
Appearing before US lawmakers for the first time since becoming America's top diplomat in February, Kerry said his three trips to the region already were proof of his commitment to try to find a way to resume peace talks.
The Obama administration is "trying to find out what is possible," Kerry told the House foreign affairs committee, as he laid out the State Department's priorities for the 2014 budget.
He stressed he had no plan so far to lay out before Congress "because we're in the process of working that out with the critical parties."
"But I can guarantee you that I am committed to this, because I believe the window for a two-state solution is shutting. I think we have some period of time -- a year to year-and-a-half to two years -- or it's over," Kerry warned.
Kerry, who has just returned from his fourth overseas trip during which he traveled to both Israel and the Palestinian territories, said he had found on both sides "a seriousness of purpose, a commitment to explore how we actually get to a negotiation."
"We all have some homework to do. We're doing that homework. And I ask you simply give us a little bit of time here," he added.
The top US diplomat is currently working on a plan -- to run alongside the political peace process -- to try to boost the Palestinian economy as part of efforts to restore some trust between the two sides.
16 apr 2013
Consul General: U.S. is Committed to Support Palestinians in West Bank, Gaza
Palthink for Strategic Studies organized with self financing a video conference meeting with Mr. Michael Alan Ratney, the U.S. Consul General in Jerusalem. The session was attended by academics, businessmen, civil society representatives, youth activists, community leaders and human right activists.
Mr. Omar Shaban, director of PalThink, welcomed the guest and audience and raised a group of issues such as Obama's last visit to the region, the U.S. position regarding the two-state solution in light of continued Israeli settlement building, the future of the region after the Arab revolutions, and U.S. policy toward the Gaza Strip.
Mr. Ratney expressed his thanks for the invitation and for the opportunity to address Palestinians from the Gaza Strip, who he recognized live under extremely difficult circumstances.
Mr. Ratney emphasized President Obama's visit, adding that his visit indicates how important this region is to American foreign policy.
The U.S. Consul General asserted that the two-state solution is the only acceptable solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. He also affirmed the right of the Palestinian people to live in peace and prosperity alongside Israel.
He also emphasized that U.S. policy towards Israeli settlement building has not changed, noting that settlements are a fundamental issue that must be resolved and adding that President Obama's speech directly addressed this issue.
Mr. Ratney also underscored the continuing U.S. commitment to assist Palestinians in both the West Bank and Gaza. "Our commitment to the economic well-being of Gaza is a central part of U.S. policy," Mr. Ratney added.
Right after the Consul's input, the discussion was open and participants raised various questions and concerns regarding the peace process, settlement building in the West Bank, and the US support to Israel.
The Gaza participants stressed the need for pushing the Mideast peace process, and called upon the US to play larger and more neutral role in advancing peace, putting an end to the Israeli occupation, and pressuring the Israeli government to stop its settlement and land acquisition policies in the West Bank, which, according to the participants, represent the larger obstacle to peace.
One participant also referred to the difficulties facing Palestinians in the Gaza Strip when they need to benefit from the US Consular services. As getting the US visa becomes an impossible mission for people seeking travel to the US because of the restrictions imposed by Israeli authorities on Gazan's freedom of movement through Erez crossing to Jerusalem, and the difficulties associated with heading to the US embassy in Cairo through Rafah crossing. The participant called upon the Consul to help Gazans receive much easier consular services as many students, professionals, and visitors lost opportunities to visit the US during the years of the blockade.
At the end of the discussion, the participants expressed their appreciation to the exchange with US consul general , which some of them described the session as a step that contributes in overcoming the blockade imposed on the Gaza Strip.
Mr. Omar Shaban, director of PalThink, welcomed the guest and audience and raised a group of issues such as Obama's last visit to the region, the U.S. position regarding the two-state solution in light of continued Israeli settlement building, the future of the region after the Arab revolutions, and U.S. policy toward the Gaza Strip.
Mr. Ratney expressed his thanks for the invitation and for the opportunity to address Palestinians from the Gaza Strip, who he recognized live under extremely difficult circumstances.
Mr. Ratney emphasized President Obama's visit, adding that his visit indicates how important this region is to American foreign policy.
The U.S. Consul General asserted that the two-state solution is the only acceptable solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. He also affirmed the right of the Palestinian people to live in peace and prosperity alongside Israel.
He also emphasized that U.S. policy towards Israeli settlement building has not changed, noting that settlements are a fundamental issue that must be resolved and adding that President Obama's speech directly addressed this issue.
Mr. Ratney also underscored the continuing U.S. commitment to assist Palestinians in both the West Bank and Gaza. "Our commitment to the economic well-being of Gaza is a central part of U.S. policy," Mr. Ratney added.
Right after the Consul's input, the discussion was open and participants raised various questions and concerns regarding the peace process, settlement building in the West Bank, and the US support to Israel.
The Gaza participants stressed the need for pushing the Mideast peace process, and called upon the US to play larger and more neutral role in advancing peace, putting an end to the Israeli occupation, and pressuring the Israeli government to stop its settlement and land acquisition policies in the West Bank, which, according to the participants, represent the larger obstacle to peace.
One participant also referred to the difficulties facing Palestinians in the Gaza Strip when they need to benefit from the US Consular services. As getting the US visa becomes an impossible mission for people seeking travel to the US because of the restrictions imposed by Israeli authorities on Gazan's freedom of movement through Erez crossing to Jerusalem, and the difficulties associated with heading to the US embassy in Cairo through Rafah crossing. The participant called upon the Consul to help Gazans receive much easier consular services as many students, professionals, and visitors lost opportunities to visit the US during the years of the blockade.
At the end of the discussion, the participants expressed their appreciation to the exchange with US consul general , which some of them described the session as a step that contributes in overcoming the blockade imposed on the Gaza Strip.
13 apr 2013
Kerry phones Abbas for further talks
President Mahmoud Abbas received Friday a phone call from the US Secretary of State John Kerry, according to the official Palestinian news agency Wafa. The two continued talks they started on April 7 and 21 in Ramallah, the Wafa report added.
For his part, senior Hamas leader in exile Mousa Abu Marzouk said Kerry's efforts to resume peace talks between the Palestinian Authority and Israel were unlikely to succeed.
"Kerry's visit to the region to pave the way for resuming stalled peace negotiations is over, and despite his optimism, his efforts will not make success," Abu Marzouk wrote on his Facebook page.
For his part, senior Hamas leader in exile Mousa Abu Marzouk said Kerry's efforts to resume peace talks between the Palestinian Authority and Israel were unlikely to succeed.
"Kerry's visit to the region to pave the way for resuming stalled peace negotiations is over, and despite his optimism, his efforts will not make success," Abu Marzouk wrote on his Facebook page.
