7 dec 2013
The Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine has commemorated its 46th anniversary of its founding under the slogan “Our Choice: Unity, Resistance, Liberation,” with a rally on al-Katiba yard in Gaza City. According to the PFLP's website, the rally in Gaza is part of a series of events and activities in all areas of the homeland and exile marking the anniversary.
The PFLP confirmed in a statement issued on the occasion that "the resistance in all its forms is the way to maintain the unity of the Palestinian people and land, and to preserve the cause, and national constants,"
The statement said that "the so-called peace process and the two-state solution is in an absolute contrast to the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with its capital as Jerusalem and the right of return of refugees,"
The Madrid and Oslo approach has been proven bankrupt, which requires [of the PA] to immediately end these futile negotiations, and to prevent the Israel's use of peace process as a cover to continue to grab land, slaughter people, Judaize the holy sites, the statement added.
It demanded the PA to join the United Nations organizations, including the International Criminal Court, and to convene an international conference in its framework to promote the execution of the relevant international resolutions.
It called for translating the UN resolution naming 2014 as a year of Solidarity with the Palestinian People into bring to account, boycott, and punish the Israeli occupation settlement in Palestine, which it considered a form of racism and terrorism that must be stopped.
The PFLP confirmed in a statement issued on the occasion that "the resistance in all its forms is the way to maintain the unity of the Palestinian people and land, and to preserve the cause, and national constants,"
The statement said that "the so-called peace process and the two-state solution is in an absolute contrast to the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with its capital as Jerusalem and the right of return of refugees,"
The Madrid and Oslo approach has been proven bankrupt, which requires [of the PA] to immediately end these futile negotiations, and to prevent the Israel's use of peace process as a cover to continue to grab land, slaughter people, Judaize the holy sites, the statement added.
It demanded the PA to join the United Nations organizations, including the International Criminal Court, and to convene an international conference in its framework to promote the execution of the relevant international resolutions.
It called for translating the UN resolution naming 2014 as a year of Solidarity with the Palestinian People into bring to account, boycott, and punish the Israeli occupation settlement in Palestine, which it considered a form of racism and terrorism that must be stopped.
Hamas described US secretary of state John Kerry’s statement about approaching peace between Palestinians and Israelis as deceptive. Fawzi Barhoum, a spokesman for Hamas, said in a statement on Saturday that Kerry’s remarks, which also asked for extending timeframe for the Palestinian-Israeli negotiation, pointed to its failure.
He said that Kerry was trying to market illusions when speaking about unreal accomplishments.
“All that Kerry and the American administration want is to gain more time to implement the Zio-American project of stabilizing the existence of the Hebrew state at the expense of the Palestinian people’s rights and security”.
Barhoum said that continuation of the negotiations with Israel would lead to “catastrophic results on our people and holy shrines”.
He said that Kerry was trying to market illusions when speaking about unreal accomplishments.
“All that Kerry and the American administration want is to gain more time to implement the Zio-American project of stabilizing the existence of the Hebrew state at the expense of the Palestinian people’s rights and security”.
Barhoum said that continuation of the negotiations with Israel would lead to “catastrophic results on our people and holy shrines”.
Palestinian government in Gaza Strip warned of PA serious concessions during its negotiation process with the Israeli occupation, saying that it would not recognize its results. Taher al-Nunu, spokesman for the government, said that some leaked information indicated that that PA had offered serious concessions, especially in regard to the right of return.
“Hiding the negotiations' results from our people points to a new catastrophe”, he added.
He stressed the illegitimacy of negotiations, insisting that no one is entitled to give up the Palestinian people rights.
For its part, the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP) stressed that resistance is the only way to maintain Palestinian people unity and national constants.
On its 46th inception anniversary, the PFLP renewed its rejection of Israeli premier Benjamin Netanyahu’s proposal of a Palestinian state with temporary borders.
PFLP's statement called for halting the futile negotiations, saying that Israeli occupation uses peace talks as a cover to its crimes and violations and Judaization policy.
The statement also called for joining all UN organizations including the International Criminal Court.
The movement stressed on the Palestinian resistance as a strategic option to the liberation of Palestinian lands and prisoners, calling for canceling PA commitments to Oslo Accord and for halting security coordination between PA and Israeli forces.
The PFLP stressed its adherence to resistance option and Palestinian people's sacrifices and Palestinian national constants.
“Hiding the negotiations' results from our people points to a new catastrophe”, he added.
He stressed the illegitimacy of negotiations, insisting that no one is entitled to give up the Palestinian people rights.
For its part, the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP) stressed that resistance is the only way to maintain Palestinian people unity and national constants.
On its 46th inception anniversary, the PFLP renewed its rejection of Israeli premier Benjamin Netanyahu’s proposal of a Palestinian state with temporary borders.
PFLP's statement called for halting the futile negotiations, saying that Israeli occupation uses peace talks as a cover to its crimes and violations and Judaization policy.
The statement also called for joining all UN organizations including the International Criminal Court.
The movement stressed on the Palestinian resistance as a strategic option to the liberation of Palestinian lands and prisoners, calling for canceling PA commitments to Oslo Accord and for halting security coordination between PA and Israeli forces.
The PFLP stressed its adherence to resistance option and Palestinian people's sacrifices and Palestinian national constants.
Dr. Yousef Rizqa, political adviser to Palestinian Prime Minister in Gaza, warned of imposing a new Oslo accord on the Palestinian people similar to the Oslo agreement signed by the PLO and the Israeli government in 1993. In a statement to Quds Press, Rizqa said that US Secretary of State John Kerry's visit to Israel and occupied Palestinian territories came to reassure Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, especially after reaching an agreement with Iran, of Washington’s backing.
This visit came to calm down Netanyahu and his government after the Iranian agreement by highlighting Israel's benefits from that agreement and by putting pressure on the Palestinians to meet Netanyahu's demands, he explained.
“As he has succeeded in the Iranian file,” Rizqa continued, “Kerry wants to succeed in the Palestinian file as well by pressuring the Palestinians to offer more concessions in favor of the Israelis”.
The political adviser pointed out that US President Barack Obama wants, before leaving office, to achieve some accomplishments for his Democratic Party through satisfying the Zionist lobby in the US by putting pressure on the Palestinians.
Rizqa warned of imposing a new Oslo accord on the Palestinian people, stressing that the PLO did not negotiate during the first Oslo accords but rather it accepted the Israeli plan offered at the time.
This visit came to calm down Netanyahu and his government after the Iranian agreement by highlighting Israel's benefits from that agreement and by putting pressure on the Palestinians to meet Netanyahu's demands, he explained.
“As he has succeeded in the Iranian file,” Rizqa continued, “Kerry wants to succeed in the Palestinian file as well by pressuring the Palestinians to offer more concessions in favor of the Israelis”.
The political adviser pointed out that US President Barack Obama wants, before leaving office, to achieve some accomplishments for his Democratic Party through satisfying the Zionist lobby in the US by putting pressure on the Palestinians.
Rizqa warned of imposing a new Oslo accord on the Palestinian people, stressing that the PLO did not negotiate during the first Oslo accords but rather it accepted the Israeli plan offered at the time.
6 dec 2013
The Israeli occupation regime reportedly told Jordan to convince the US to accept long-term Israeli control over the Jordan Valley despite the fierce Palestinian opposition, the Israeli newspaper Maariv claimed on Thursday.
According to the newspaper, Israel has coordinated with Amman to drive home the message to the Americans, especially secretary of state John Kerry, who was in the region Thursday for talks with Israeli and Palestinian officials, that keeping its army in the Jordan River is crucial to regional stability.
A senior Israeli official told Maariv that Israeli premier Benjamin Netanyahu is determined to finish building a security fence along the border with Jordan, a move Amman sees as important to its own security as well.
Kerry landed in Israel Wednesday night and met with Netanyahu Thursday morning.
According to US officials, Kerry brought with him a plan for making security arrangements in the West Bank, including the Jordan Valley, following the establishment of a Palestinian state, Haaretz newspaper said. For his part, Saeb Erekat, chief Palestinian authority negotiator , has denied knowing about a US plan for security arrangements despite confirmations in this regard by other Palestinian diplomatic sources.
The Jordan Valley is a flat land with an area of about 800 thousand acres, located on the border between occupied Palestine and Jordan. There are dozens of Palestinian and Jordanian villages in the area.
Israeli media sources revealed that Israeli authorities plan to build a security barrier on a 200- kilometer area of the Jordan Valley, extending to the dead sea.
Israel's separation fence additionally includes a 16-meter-wide road for military patrols.
Thousands of Palestinians in the area are at risk of forced displacement. This is due to a combination of factors, including demolitions, forced evictions from closed military zones and the inability to meet basic needs due to a range of Israeli-imposed restrictions.
According to the newspaper, Israel has coordinated with Amman to drive home the message to the Americans, especially secretary of state John Kerry, who was in the region Thursday for talks with Israeli and Palestinian officials, that keeping its army in the Jordan River is crucial to regional stability.
A senior Israeli official told Maariv that Israeli premier Benjamin Netanyahu is determined to finish building a security fence along the border with Jordan, a move Amman sees as important to its own security as well.
Kerry landed in Israel Wednesday night and met with Netanyahu Thursday morning.
According to US officials, Kerry brought with him a plan for making security arrangements in the West Bank, including the Jordan Valley, following the establishment of a Palestinian state, Haaretz newspaper said. For his part, Saeb Erekat, chief Palestinian authority negotiator , has denied knowing about a US plan for security arrangements despite confirmations in this regard by other Palestinian diplomatic sources.
The Jordan Valley is a flat land with an area of about 800 thousand acres, located on the border between occupied Palestine and Jordan. There are dozens of Palestinian and Jordanian villages in the area.
Israeli media sources revealed that Israeli authorities plan to build a security barrier on a 200- kilometer area of the Jordan Valley, extending to the dead sea.
Israel's separation fence additionally includes a 16-meter-wide road for military patrols.
Thousands of Palestinians in the area are at risk of forced displacement. This is due to a combination of factors, including demolitions, forced evictions from closed military zones and the inability to meet basic needs due to a range of Israeli-imposed restrictions.
Right to Enter Campaign
On September 8 US Secretary of State John Kerry announced that "the Allenby Bridge [crossing between the West Bank and Jordan] is now going to be open 24 hours a day, five days a week, and will greatly facilitate movement back and forth."
This announcement suggests that negotiations are once again being limited to minimal, symbolic improvements in living conditions for Palestinians under continued Israeli military rule rather than any serious attempt to end Israel’s military occupation of the West Bank and Gaza Strip.
The all-pervasive regime of permits and movement restrictions, through which Israel controls all aspects of Palestinian lives – from access to resources and essential services, to all forms of economic activity, political participation, and the viability of family and social networks – will remain intact; the right to freedom of movement has once again been shelved, this time for a few more hours to cross the bridge.
Of course, for Palestinians in the West Bank who are not allowed to travel abroad except through the Allenby Bridge, longer opening hours will, no doubt, be welcomed; perhaps there will be a reduction in the number of hours one can expect to wait, particularly during summer months when an average of 11,000 people use the bridge daily and frequently find themselves waiting for hours to make the crossing.
No mention has been heard, however, of the humiliation, questioning, and searching of private belongings and electronic information that regularly takes place at Allenby and the delays these will continue to cause. Moreover, no mention has been made of Israel putting an end to its arbitrary (and unlawful) denial of entry of foreign nationals of Palestinian and non-Palestinian origin, or the often conditional and restricted nature of their permission to enter when granted despite repeated protests from the US, EU and others.
Before celebrating extended hours at Allenby, Secretary Kerry and anyone else tempted to claim this a victory of any significance, would do well to remember that:
Nearly 40% of the Palestinian population in the occupied Palestinian territory cannot use the Allenby Bridge at all; Palestinians in Gaza are prohibited from using the bridge, and cannot reach Jericho, Jerusalem or any other destination in the West Bank, with rare exception.
For over 4,800 days and still counting (since June 2007), Israel has blocked nearly all movement of people in and out of the Gaza Strip and restricted goods to a trickle relative to need – one that it turns on and off at its discretion, regardless of the welfare of the over 1.7 million Palestinians living there. Lest we forget, Gaza has been under increasing levels of closure since the early 1990s.
The Israeli regime of permits and movement restrictions, greatly expanded and consolidated in the 20 years since the Oslo Agreement, means that all Palestinians living in the occupied Palestinian territory (oPt), with exception of those holding Jerusalem IDs, (i.e. over 90% of the Palestinian population of the oPt) are prohibited from ever travelling to Jerusalem, without Israeli-issued permits which restrict entry for specific purposes and times and which most Palestinians have never had the “privilege” of securing.
For 2.7 million Palestinians residing in the West Bank, the same Israeli regime controls all movement of people and goods into and out of individual population centers through the Wall, hundreds of military checkpoints, roadblocks and physical barriers, settlement and other areas closed off by the military and a network of roads and tunnels controlling and diverting Palestinian traffic; this formidable physical infrastructure is underpinned by a complex system of movement, residency and visitor permits
Let’s be clear that this regime of movement and access restrictions makes mockery of any form of territorial integrity, let alone a viable Palestinian state, which ostensibly remain objectives to which the US, the Quartet (and the Palestinians) continue to express a clear commitment.
It’s worth remembering that back in 2006, Kerry’s predecessor, then US Secretary of State, Condoleezza Rice also claimed US efforts led to improved living conditions for Palestinians:
“…I personally worked with parties to create an opportunity – an Agreement on Movement and Access, to help the Palestinians travel more freely and transport their goods to market. It is important that we continue to work so that Palestinians and Israelis can implement this agreement.”[3]
With no substantive or enduring improvements witnessed since Rice’s endeavor, Kerry appears to have adopted even more restricted objectives for the latest round of “peace talks” than his predecessor.
The Right to Enter Campaign reminds the US and those who would engage in the latest round of “negotiations” that attempts to appease Palestinian demands for basic human rights by a few cosmetic improvements in the prison-like conditions that characterize Palestinian life under continued Israeli military occupation are wholly inadequate. It’s time for a regime change. At the very least, let us agree that any meaningful attempts at “improving conditions on the ground,” let alone ensuring basic human rights for the Palestinian people requires a recognition that the current regime – a matrix of Israeli control rendering the right to freedom of movement the exclusive and conditioned privilege of a select few at best -- must be ended. No amount of tweaking the regime and no amount of window dressing will lead to “improved conditions on the ground” of a significant or enduring nature. As long as this regime persists, the daily reality for Palestinians in the oPt will continue to be one in which the most basic of human rights -- going to school, work or place of worship, seeking health care, farming one's land, choosing where to live -- are regularly denied.
Right to Enter is a grassroots campaign defending the rights of access, movement and residency in the Israeli-occupied Palestinian territory.
On September 8 US Secretary of State John Kerry announced that "the Allenby Bridge [crossing between the West Bank and Jordan] is now going to be open 24 hours a day, five days a week, and will greatly facilitate movement back and forth."
This announcement suggests that negotiations are once again being limited to minimal, symbolic improvements in living conditions for Palestinians under continued Israeli military rule rather than any serious attempt to end Israel’s military occupation of the West Bank and Gaza Strip.
The all-pervasive regime of permits and movement restrictions, through which Israel controls all aspects of Palestinian lives – from access to resources and essential services, to all forms of economic activity, political participation, and the viability of family and social networks – will remain intact; the right to freedom of movement has once again been shelved, this time for a few more hours to cross the bridge.
Of course, for Palestinians in the West Bank who are not allowed to travel abroad except through the Allenby Bridge, longer opening hours will, no doubt, be welcomed; perhaps there will be a reduction in the number of hours one can expect to wait, particularly during summer months when an average of 11,000 people use the bridge daily and frequently find themselves waiting for hours to make the crossing.
No mention has been heard, however, of the humiliation, questioning, and searching of private belongings and electronic information that regularly takes place at Allenby and the delays these will continue to cause. Moreover, no mention has been made of Israel putting an end to its arbitrary (and unlawful) denial of entry of foreign nationals of Palestinian and non-Palestinian origin, or the often conditional and restricted nature of their permission to enter when granted despite repeated protests from the US, EU and others.
Before celebrating extended hours at Allenby, Secretary Kerry and anyone else tempted to claim this a victory of any significance, would do well to remember that:
Nearly 40% of the Palestinian population in the occupied Palestinian territory cannot use the Allenby Bridge at all; Palestinians in Gaza are prohibited from using the bridge, and cannot reach Jericho, Jerusalem or any other destination in the West Bank, with rare exception.
For over 4,800 days and still counting (since June 2007), Israel has blocked nearly all movement of people in and out of the Gaza Strip and restricted goods to a trickle relative to need – one that it turns on and off at its discretion, regardless of the welfare of the over 1.7 million Palestinians living there. Lest we forget, Gaza has been under increasing levels of closure since the early 1990s.
The Israeli regime of permits and movement restrictions, greatly expanded and consolidated in the 20 years since the Oslo Agreement, means that all Palestinians living in the occupied Palestinian territory (oPt), with exception of those holding Jerusalem IDs, (i.e. over 90% of the Palestinian population of the oPt) are prohibited from ever travelling to Jerusalem, without Israeli-issued permits which restrict entry for specific purposes and times and which most Palestinians have never had the “privilege” of securing.
For 2.7 million Palestinians residing in the West Bank, the same Israeli regime controls all movement of people and goods into and out of individual population centers through the Wall, hundreds of military checkpoints, roadblocks and physical barriers, settlement and other areas closed off by the military and a network of roads and tunnels controlling and diverting Palestinian traffic; this formidable physical infrastructure is underpinned by a complex system of movement, residency and visitor permits
Let’s be clear that this regime of movement and access restrictions makes mockery of any form of territorial integrity, let alone a viable Palestinian state, which ostensibly remain objectives to which the US, the Quartet (and the Palestinians) continue to express a clear commitment.
It’s worth remembering that back in 2006, Kerry’s predecessor, then US Secretary of State, Condoleezza Rice also claimed US efforts led to improved living conditions for Palestinians:
“…I personally worked with parties to create an opportunity – an Agreement on Movement and Access, to help the Palestinians travel more freely and transport their goods to market. It is important that we continue to work so that Palestinians and Israelis can implement this agreement.”[3]
With no substantive or enduring improvements witnessed since Rice’s endeavor, Kerry appears to have adopted even more restricted objectives for the latest round of “peace talks” than his predecessor.
The Right to Enter Campaign reminds the US and those who would engage in the latest round of “negotiations” that attempts to appease Palestinian demands for basic human rights by a few cosmetic improvements in the prison-like conditions that characterize Palestinian life under continued Israeli military occupation are wholly inadequate. It’s time for a regime change. At the very least, let us agree that any meaningful attempts at “improving conditions on the ground,” let alone ensuring basic human rights for the Palestinian people requires a recognition that the current regime – a matrix of Israeli control rendering the right to freedom of movement the exclusive and conditioned privilege of a select few at best -- must be ended. No amount of tweaking the regime and no amount of window dressing will lead to “improved conditions on the ground” of a significant or enduring nature. As long as this regime persists, the daily reality for Palestinians in the oPt will continue to be one in which the most basic of human rights -- going to school, work or place of worship, seeking health care, farming one's land, choosing where to live -- are regularly denied.
Right to Enter is a grassroots campaign defending the rights of access, movement and residency in the Israeli-occupied Palestinian territory.
5 dec 2013
Israeli sources have reported that Palestinian President, Mahmoud Abbas, has rejected security arrangements offered by US Secretary of State, John Kerry, during their Thursday meeting in Ramallah.
The sources said that Kerry presented “ideas” regarding security measures that would be implemented under a future peace deal between Israel and the Palestinians.
A Palestinian official, who elected to remain anonymous, said that the proposals were rejected as they would only contribute to prolonging the Israeli occupation of Palestine, instead of ending it, and establishing a viable and contiguous Palestinian state.
Kerry introduced the proposals to Abbas after holding an extended meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Chief Palestinian Negotiator Dr. Saeb Erekat said that direct talks with Tel Aviv are still facing numerous obstacles and complications due to Israeli violations, including its ongoing settlement construction and expansion activities.
Erekat added that, despite the complications, the Palestinian side did not lose hope, and is committed to achieving a just and comprehensive peace deal.
The Abbas-Kerry meeting lasted for three hours; following the meeting, Kerry told reporters that a progress has been made regarding security arrangements, but declined to elaborate.
Kerry added that the Palestinian and Israeli interests are similar, but both sides have questions regarding sovereignty, serious concerns regarding security in addition to questions regarding all important issues that would end the conflict.
Israel is ongoing with its illegitimate settlement construction and expansion activities in the occupied West Bank, including in an around occupied East Jerusalem, in direct violation of International Law and the Fourth Geneva Convention.
Tel Aviv also rejects any withdrawal from occupied Jerusalem and the Jordan Valley, and refuses to hold talks on essential issues such as borders, natural resources and the internationally guaranteed Right of Return of the Palestinian refugees.
The sources said that Kerry presented “ideas” regarding security measures that would be implemented under a future peace deal between Israel and the Palestinians.
A Palestinian official, who elected to remain anonymous, said that the proposals were rejected as they would only contribute to prolonging the Israeli occupation of Palestine, instead of ending it, and establishing a viable and contiguous Palestinian state.
Kerry introduced the proposals to Abbas after holding an extended meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Chief Palestinian Negotiator Dr. Saeb Erekat said that direct talks with Tel Aviv are still facing numerous obstacles and complications due to Israeli violations, including its ongoing settlement construction and expansion activities.
Erekat added that, despite the complications, the Palestinian side did not lose hope, and is committed to achieving a just and comprehensive peace deal.
The Abbas-Kerry meeting lasted for three hours; following the meeting, Kerry told reporters that a progress has been made regarding security arrangements, but declined to elaborate.
Kerry added that the Palestinian and Israeli interests are similar, but both sides have questions regarding sovereignty, serious concerns regarding security in addition to questions regarding all important issues that would end the conflict.
Israel is ongoing with its illegitimate settlement construction and expansion activities in the occupied West Bank, including in an around occupied East Jerusalem, in direct violation of International Law and the Fourth Geneva Convention.
Tel Aviv also rejects any withdrawal from occupied Jerusalem and the Jordan Valley, and refuses to hold talks on essential issues such as borders, natural resources and the internationally guaranteed Right of Return of the Palestinian refugees.
Israel's deputy defense minister ruled out Thursday any compromise on security in the Jordan Valley as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held security talks with US Secretary of State John Kerry.
"The Americans are proposing joint control over the crossing points (into Jordan)," Danny Danon told Israel's army radio.
"From the Israeli point of view, there will not be any Palestinian presence at the crossing points," said the deputy minister, who is a radical member of Netanyahu's rightwing Likud party.
"An Israeli civilian and military presence in the Jordan Valley is essential."
Kerry arrived in Israel late on Wednesday in his latest attempt to drive forward the faltering peace talks which have almost reached the halfway point with very little visible progress.
US officials have said the focus this time would be on Israel's security arrangements, although they have refused to confirm media reports that Kerry was to present Netanyahu with a plan of how this could look in the context of a peace deal.
Israel has always insisted that in any final agreement, it would have to maintain a military presence in the Jordan Valley, which runs down the eastern flank of the West Bank, bordering Jordan.
According to a report in Maariv newspaper, when US General John Allen briefs Netanyahu during the morning meeting, he will outline a "bridging proposal" which will enable Israel to reduce, as much as possible, its military presence in the Jordan Valley.
Quoting senior diplomats, the paper said the plan would outline arrangements for a transitional period and a permanent status arrangement and may include "guarantees, advanced technological equipment and unique weaponry" which would enable Israel to either "reduce or to replace its military presence along the Jordan River".
A central part of the plan would address early warning stations and security over air space, particularly around Israel's main international airport near Tel Aviv.
Haaretz newspaper on Wednesday said Washington was now focusing on resolving Israel's security needs in the hope it will allow them to push Netanyahu on other aspects, such as the borders of a future Palestinian state.
"The Americans have concluded that Netanyahu will not agree to move forward on other elements (of a peace deal) such as the borders of a future Palestinian state without an arrangement on security," it said.
Israel has demanded that any future Palestinian state to be demilitarized with an Israeli military presence along the Jordan Valley.
Netanyahu has said Israel would only accept the emergence of a Palestinian state if it was demilitarized, with Israeli troops deployed along the Jordan Valley.
And he has completely ruled out any transfer of security control in the border area to a third party -- an option which would be acceptable to the Palestinians.
After talks with Netanyahu, Kerry will head to Ramallah to meet President Mahmoud Abbas at 12 p.m.
"The Americans are proposing joint control over the crossing points (into Jordan)," Danny Danon told Israel's army radio.
"From the Israeli point of view, there will not be any Palestinian presence at the crossing points," said the deputy minister, who is a radical member of Netanyahu's rightwing Likud party.
"An Israeli civilian and military presence in the Jordan Valley is essential."
Kerry arrived in Israel late on Wednesday in his latest attempt to drive forward the faltering peace talks which have almost reached the halfway point with very little visible progress.
US officials have said the focus this time would be on Israel's security arrangements, although they have refused to confirm media reports that Kerry was to present Netanyahu with a plan of how this could look in the context of a peace deal.
Israel has always insisted that in any final agreement, it would have to maintain a military presence in the Jordan Valley, which runs down the eastern flank of the West Bank, bordering Jordan.
According to a report in Maariv newspaper, when US General John Allen briefs Netanyahu during the morning meeting, he will outline a "bridging proposal" which will enable Israel to reduce, as much as possible, its military presence in the Jordan Valley.
Quoting senior diplomats, the paper said the plan would outline arrangements for a transitional period and a permanent status arrangement and may include "guarantees, advanced technological equipment and unique weaponry" which would enable Israel to either "reduce or to replace its military presence along the Jordan River".
A central part of the plan would address early warning stations and security over air space, particularly around Israel's main international airport near Tel Aviv.
Haaretz newspaper on Wednesday said Washington was now focusing on resolving Israel's security needs in the hope it will allow them to push Netanyahu on other aspects, such as the borders of a future Palestinian state.
"The Americans have concluded that Netanyahu will not agree to move forward on other elements (of a peace deal) such as the borders of a future Palestinian state without an arrangement on security," it said.
Israel has demanded that any future Palestinian state to be demilitarized with an Israeli military presence along the Jordan Valley.
Netanyahu has said Israel would only accept the emergence of a Palestinian state if it was demilitarized, with Israeli troops deployed along the Jordan Valley.
And he has completely ruled out any transfer of security control in the border area to a third party -- an option which would be acceptable to the Palestinians.
After talks with Netanyahu, Kerry will head to Ramallah to meet President Mahmoud Abbas at 12 p.m.
Israeli Foreign Minister, Avigdor Lieberman, said that the Palestinian Authority in the occupied West Bank is "avoiding talks" with Tel Aviv, and is "not interested in genuine peace".
Following his meeting in New York with UN Secretary General, Lieberman said that the Palestinians are “focusing on Israel’s settlement activities that are only taking 1.5% of the West Bank”.
“Settlements are not an obstacle to peace”, he claimed, “The Palestinians just have no interest in peace, and are using this issue as an excuse”.
He further said that the Palestinians are "planning to quit direct talks with Tel Aviv once it releases the fourth phase of veteran political prisoners", and claimed that the Palestinian leadership “is conducting a hostile stance against Israel in its smear campaign on the international arena”.
Lieberman, the founder and leader of the extreme right-wing “Israel Our Home” party, is a settler himself -- a settler who was born in Kishinev in the former Soviet Union. He lives in the Nokdim illegal settlement in the West Bank.
Since starting his political career, after working as a bouncer at a nightclub in Tel Aviv, Lieberman became known for his extreme views against the Arabs, and repeatedly called for removing the Arabs from the occupied territories, and from historic Palestine, as he considers them a "strategic threat".
His statements pointing to the Arabs and Palestinians as strategic threats to Israel (as a Jewish State) led him to the position of “Strategic Affairs” Minister in 2007 to 2008.
He also served as National Infrastructure Minister (2001-2002) and Transportation Minister (2001-2002).
In 2001, he pleaded guilty to assaulting a Palestinian child who allegedly hit his son. He was only ordered to pay compensation for the child.
In the 2009 Israeli elections, and this year, his party partnered with the Likud Party of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and won 31 out of 120 Knesset seats.
He served as Israel’s Foreign Minister between March 2009 and December 2012, and left his post after facing an indictment for promoting an ambassador of his who provided information about a police investigation in Belarus, and for failing to report the actions of this ambassador.
The Jerusalem Magistrates Court acquitted him in November of this year, after the three-judge panel unanimously ruled that the prosecution failed to provide sufficient proof of the charges.
Israel’s illegitimate settlement activities on Palestinian lands, in the occupied West Bank and occupied East Jerusalem, are amongst the main obstacles to peace in the region.
Settlements are illegal under International law, and the Fourth Geneva Convention to which Israel is a signatory.
Following his meeting in New York with UN Secretary General, Lieberman said that the Palestinians are “focusing on Israel’s settlement activities that are only taking 1.5% of the West Bank”.
“Settlements are not an obstacle to peace”, he claimed, “The Palestinians just have no interest in peace, and are using this issue as an excuse”.
He further said that the Palestinians are "planning to quit direct talks with Tel Aviv once it releases the fourth phase of veteran political prisoners", and claimed that the Palestinian leadership “is conducting a hostile stance against Israel in its smear campaign on the international arena”.
Lieberman, the founder and leader of the extreme right-wing “Israel Our Home” party, is a settler himself -- a settler who was born in Kishinev in the former Soviet Union. He lives in the Nokdim illegal settlement in the West Bank.
Since starting his political career, after working as a bouncer at a nightclub in Tel Aviv, Lieberman became known for his extreme views against the Arabs, and repeatedly called for removing the Arabs from the occupied territories, and from historic Palestine, as he considers them a "strategic threat".
His statements pointing to the Arabs and Palestinians as strategic threats to Israel (as a Jewish State) led him to the position of “Strategic Affairs” Minister in 2007 to 2008.
He also served as National Infrastructure Minister (2001-2002) and Transportation Minister (2001-2002).
In 2001, he pleaded guilty to assaulting a Palestinian child who allegedly hit his son. He was only ordered to pay compensation for the child.
In the 2009 Israeli elections, and this year, his party partnered with the Likud Party of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and won 31 out of 120 Knesset seats.
He served as Israel’s Foreign Minister between March 2009 and December 2012, and left his post after facing an indictment for promoting an ambassador of his who provided information about a police investigation in Belarus, and for failing to report the actions of this ambassador.
The Jerusalem Magistrates Court acquitted him in November of this year, after the three-judge panel unanimously ruled that the prosecution failed to provide sufficient proof of the charges.
Israel’s illegitimate settlement activities on Palestinian lands, in the occupied West Bank and occupied East Jerusalem, are amongst the main obstacles to peace in the region.
Settlements are illegal under International law, and the Fourth Geneva Convention to which Israel is a signatory.
The European Union has granted the Palestinian Authority (P.A) in the West Bank approximately €11 Million to help it pay November salaries of more than 71.000 Palestinian civil employees and pensioners, in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip.
The European contribution is transferred through the PEGASE mechanism, used by the EU and international countries to assist help the P.A in preparing for the future Palestinian State.
EU representative John Gatt-Rutter stated that the EU has been the biggest donor, and most reliable partner with the Palestinian Authority in the occupied West Bank.
He added that this contribution and support is part of the EU’s persistent support of the Palestinian people, and that this support would continue in 2014.
Gatt-Rutter said that establishing an independent and viable Palestinian State is very important for peace in the region, and that the EU is invested in building strong Palestinian institutions that would contribute to reaching a lasting peace deal.
The European official further stated that the EU fully supports a negotiated solution to the conflict, and will continue to act on ensuing successful peace talks that would lead to a final-status peace agreement.
The European contribution is transferred through the PEGASE mechanism, used by the EU and international countries to assist help the P.A in preparing for the future Palestinian State.
EU representative John Gatt-Rutter stated that the EU has been the biggest donor, and most reliable partner with the Palestinian Authority in the occupied West Bank.
He added that this contribution and support is part of the EU’s persistent support of the Palestinian people, and that this support would continue in 2014.
Gatt-Rutter said that establishing an independent and viable Palestinian State is very important for peace in the region, and that the EU is invested in building strong Palestinian institutions that would contribute to reaching a lasting peace deal.
The European official further stated that the EU fully supports a negotiated solution to the conflict, and will continue to act on ensuing successful peace talks that would lead to a final-status peace agreement.
After landing in Tel Aviv, U.S. Secretary of state John Kerry held a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu. Their meeting mainly focused on security arrangements, and the “Iranian file”.
During a news conference following his meeting with Netanyahu in Jerusalem, Kerry said that a special security envoy is currently in the region to assess the security situation, and added that meetings are also taking place in the West Bank to “ensure Israel’s security”.
The American official claimed that progress is being made in Palestinian-Israeli peace talks, and that the two parties are determined to continue direct bilateral talks.
He added that the United States would continue to work until ensuring the dismantling of what he called “the Iranian nuclear agenda”, and that Iran needs to implement the decisions of the Geneva Agreement.
“The United States will not ease sanctions on Tehran should it fail to implement the agreement”, Kerry said.
On his part, Netanyahu alleged that Israel is willing to reach what he called a “historic agreement with the Palestinians”, and that any agreement must include all security arrangements which ensure Israel’s security.
He added that Israel is not comfortable with the Geneva Agreement, and called for taking quick actions that ensures strict sanctions on Tehran.
Kerry will be heading to Ramallah for a meeting with President Mahmoud Abbas, followed by another meeting with Netanyahu in Jerusalem.
Despite denouncing Israel’s ongoing illegal settlement construction and expansion activities in the occupied territories, Kerry did not ask Netanyahu to halt all actions that are leading to more obstacles to peace talks.
The Palestinian Authority in the West Bank said that talks with Tel Aviv cannot continue while it continues to build and expand its illegitimate settlements, and while the Israeli army continues its invasions, arrests and its home and property demolition polices in the occupied West Bank and in occupied Jerusalem.
During a news conference following his meeting with Netanyahu in Jerusalem, Kerry said that a special security envoy is currently in the region to assess the security situation, and added that meetings are also taking place in the West Bank to “ensure Israel’s security”.
The American official claimed that progress is being made in Palestinian-Israeli peace talks, and that the two parties are determined to continue direct bilateral talks.
He added that the United States would continue to work until ensuring the dismantling of what he called “the Iranian nuclear agenda”, and that Iran needs to implement the decisions of the Geneva Agreement.
“The United States will not ease sanctions on Tehran should it fail to implement the agreement”, Kerry said.
On his part, Netanyahu alleged that Israel is willing to reach what he called a “historic agreement with the Palestinians”, and that any agreement must include all security arrangements which ensure Israel’s security.
He added that Israel is not comfortable with the Geneva Agreement, and called for taking quick actions that ensures strict sanctions on Tehran.
Kerry will be heading to Ramallah for a meeting with President Mahmoud Abbas, followed by another meeting with Netanyahu in Jerusalem.
Despite denouncing Israel’s ongoing illegal settlement construction and expansion activities in the occupied territories, Kerry did not ask Netanyahu to halt all actions that are leading to more obstacles to peace talks.
The Palestinian Authority in the West Bank said that talks with Tel Aviv cannot continue while it continues to build and expand its illegitimate settlements, and while the Israeli army continues its invasions, arrests and its home and property demolition polices in the occupied West Bank and in occupied Jerusalem.
Israeli media sources have reported that United States Secretary General, John Kerry, will be separately meeting, later on Thursday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas.
The sources state that Kerry intends to ask Netanyahu to refrain from issuing new bids for constructions in Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank and in occupied Jerusalem, as the issue of construction and expansion of Israeli settlement only leads to further complications to political talks.
Kerry’s assistant, John Allens, would also be accompanying Kerry in his tour.
Israel believes that the United States has a plan that would help boost security arrangements on the Palestinian-Jordanian border, and that the plan “would be presented to the Palestinians and Israelis during this tour”.
Kerry would also be discussing the “Iranian file” during his talks with the Israeli Prime Minister, before heading to the central West Bank city of Ramallah for talks with President Abbas.
The Guardian has reported that the visit comes to revive the already troubled Israeli-Palestinian talks, and follows a statement made by the European Union regarding funding cuts to the Palestinian Authority in the West Bank, should talks make no progress.
The Guardian said that Mohammad Eshtiyya, a Palestinian negotiator who quit the Palestinian negotiations team last month due to Israel’s ongoing violations and escalating settlement construction activities, said that Israel’s escalating violations are only widening gaps in peace talks.
Eshtiyya stated that Israel just wants to illegally annex large areas of the occupied West Bank and occupied East Jerusalem, and is not interested in real and comprehensive peace with the Palestinians.
Eshtiyya added that the U.S., which mediates direct talks, is leading an unbalanced position in favor of Tel Aviv and its illegitimate policies.
The EU said it might seriously consider withholding more than 300 million euros it annually grants the P.A., should direct talks fail, the Guardian said.
Furthermore, the EU’s Special Envoy to peace talks in the Middle East, Andreas Reinicke, said that half of EU member states support taking action against goods made in Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank.
The Guardian quoted an unnamed official of the EU stating that, should direct talks fail, the EU needs to ask itself “why should the transfer continue, as the money would just disappear without the establishment of an independent Palestinian State."
The EU funding is essential to the survival of the Palestinian Authority, especially amidst its current sharp financial crises, as Israel keeps withholding hundreds of millions in taxes that it collects on behalf of the P.A. at the border terminal, as it controls all border terminals leading to the West Bank.
Earlier this week, President Abbas said the P.A. would resume its international campaign to join more international institutions, and added that the P.A. only agreed to refrain from such actions during the nine months of direct talks, but that the talks did not lead to any significant breakthrough.
Direct talks were resumed on July 29, 2013, after extensive efforts by the U.S. and other countries to resume the political process.
Tel Aviv continued its invasions and violations, issuing bids for the construction of thousands of units in illegal settlements.
However, Israel insists on what it calls “its right to build and expand settlements” in the occupied West Bank and in occupied Jerusalem, in direct violation of International Law and the Fourth Geneva Convention.
Tel Aviv also wants to maintain control over West Bank border terminals and Palestinian airspace, and insists on maintaining its presence, as well as on expanding its illegitimate settlements in the occupied Jordan Valley.
Settlements and the annexation wall, in the occupied West Bank and occupied Jerusalem, are strangling the Palestinian economy, and are turning the Palestinian territories into isolated ghettos, while Palestinian villagers have lost most of their lands due to Israel’s settlements and the wall, and are largely denied access to their orchards, which have become isolated behind the wall.
Back in July 2004, the International Court ruled that the annexation wall is illegal, as it is a political measure which aims at grabbing more Palestinian land, and called on Israel to remove it.
The International Court denounced the Israeli confiscation and destruction of Palestinian lands and property, and stated that this wall affects the lives of thousands of Palestinians.
In its advisory ruling, the court asked the United Nations to take measures against Israel, but sanctions or measures against Israel are very unlikely, due to U.S. support of Tel Aviv. Israel rejected and ignored the ruling.
The sources state that Kerry intends to ask Netanyahu to refrain from issuing new bids for constructions in Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank and in occupied Jerusalem, as the issue of construction and expansion of Israeli settlement only leads to further complications to political talks.
Kerry’s assistant, John Allens, would also be accompanying Kerry in his tour.
Israel believes that the United States has a plan that would help boost security arrangements on the Palestinian-Jordanian border, and that the plan “would be presented to the Palestinians and Israelis during this tour”.
Kerry would also be discussing the “Iranian file” during his talks with the Israeli Prime Minister, before heading to the central West Bank city of Ramallah for talks with President Abbas.
The Guardian has reported that the visit comes to revive the already troubled Israeli-Palestinian talks, and follows a statement made by the European Union regarding funding cuts to the Palestinian Authority in the West Bank, should talks make no progress.
The Guardian said that Mohammad Eshtiyya, a Palestinian negotiator who quit the Palestinian negotiations team last month due to Israel’s ongoing violations and escalating settlement construction activities, said that Israel’s escalating violations are only widening gaps in peace talks.
Eshtiyya stated that Israel just wants to illegally annex large areas of the occupied West Bank and occupied East Jerusalem, and is not interested in real and comprehensive peace with the Palestinians.
Eshtiyya added that the U.S., which mediates direct talks, is leading an unbalanced position in favor of Tel Aviv and its illegitimate policies.
The EU said it might seriously consider withholding more than 300 million euros it annually grants the P.A., should direct talks fail, the Guardian said.
Furthermore, the EU’s Special Envoy to peace talks in the Middle East, Andreas Reinicke, said that half of EU member states support taking action against goods made in Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank.
The Guardian quoted an unnamed official of the EU stating that, should direct talks fail, the EU needs to ask itself “why should the transfer continue, as the money would just disappear without the establishment of an independent Palestinian State."
The EU funding is essential to the survival of the Palestinian Authority, especially amidst its current sharp financial crises, as Israel keeps withholding hundreds of millions in taxes that it collects on behalf of the P.A. at the border terminal, as it controls all border terminals leading to the West Bank.
Earlier this week, President Abbas said the P.A. would resume its international campaign to join more international institutions, and added that the P.A. only agreed to refrain from such actions during the nine months of direct talks, but that the talks did not lead to any significant breakthrough.
Direct talks were resumed on July 29, 2013, after extensive efforts by the U.S. and other countries to resume the political process.
Tel Aviv continued its invasions and violations, issuing bids for the construction of thousands of units in illegal settlements.
However, Israel insists on what it calls “its right to build and expand settlements” in the occupied West Bank and in occupied Jerusalem, in direct violation of International Law and the Fourth Geneva Convention.
Tel Aviv also wants to maintain control over West Bank border terminals and Palestinian airspace, and insists on maintaining its presence, as well as on expanding its illegitimate settlements in the occupied Jordan Valley.
Settlements and the annexation wall, in the occupied West Bank and occupied Jerusalem, are strangling the Palestinian economy, and are turning the Palestinian territories into isolated ghettos, while Palestinian villagers have lost most of their lands due to Israel’s settlements and the wall, and are largely denied access to their orchards, which have become isolated behind the wall.
Back in July 2004, the International Court ruled that the annexation wall is illegal, as it is a political measure which aims at grabbing more Palestinian land, and called on Israel to remove it.
The International Court denounced the Israeli confiscation and destruction of Palestinian lands and property, and stated that this wall affects the lives of thousands of Palestinians.
In its advisory ruling, the court asked the United Nations to take measures against Israel, but sanctions or measures against Israel are very unlikely, due to U.S. support of Tel Aviv. Israel rejected and ignored the ruling.
Senior Hamas official Mahmoud Al-Zahhar said that any conciliatory agreement resulting from the current negotiations between the Palestinian Authority (PA) and the occupation is non-binding for the Palestinian people. Zahhar made his remarks during a special session held on Wednesday by the Palestinian legislative council to discuss the report that was submitted by its political committee on the negotiations between the PA and the Israeli occupation regime.
Zahhar called for forming a national front opposing the peace negotiations with the occupation and addressing their detrimental impacts on the Palestinian rights and constants.
"The Palestinian negotiators are illegitimate, neither they represent the national consensus nor they have the majority that allows them to speak on behalf the Palestinian people," the Hamas official stated.
He affirmed that the Fatah faction took the Palestinian cause to a dangerous level in its negotiations with the Israeli occupation and waived many Palestinian rights, noting that the results of the negotiations had been settled in advance by the US sponsor in favor of the occupation.
Fatah chose to obey America in order to protect its presence as a representative of the people and insure financial support, he stressed.
The Hamas official demanded the Arab League to assume its responsibility towards the Palestinian cause and declare its rejection of the peace negotiations which only serve Israel's goals in the region.
Zahhar called for forming a national front opposing the peace negotiations with the occupation and addressing their detrimental impacts on the Palestinian rights and constants.
"The Palestinian negotiators are illegitimate, neither they represent the national consensus nor they have the majority that allows them to speak on behalf the Palestinian people," the Hamas official stated.
He affirmed that the Fatah faction took the Palestinian cause to a dangerous level in its negotiations with the Israeli occupation and waived many Palestinian rights, noting that the results of the negotiations had been settled in advance by the US sponsor in favor of the occupation.
Fatah chose to obey America in order to protect its presence as a representative of the people and insure financial support, he stressed.
The Hamas official demanded the Arab League to assume its responsibility towards the Palestinian cause and declare its rejection of the peace negotiations which only serve Israel's goals in the region.
Dr. Ismail Radwan, Minister of Religious Affairs in Gaza, condemned the continuation of negotiation between Israeli and Palestinian authorities despite the national consensus on its rejection. During his participation in a workshop concerning the current Palestinian situation, Radwan said that the Palestinian situation is "painful" in light the continued detention of thousands of Palestinian behind Israeli bars, escalated Judaization schemes, and security coordination between Israeli and Palestinian forces, in addition to the Islamic nations preoccupation with their internal problems.
Radwan praised the workshop, which contained participants from all Palestinian political parties, considering it a contribution to the national reconciliation.
Radwan pointed to the Israeli settlers' escalated break-ins into al-Aqsa mosque under Israeli forces' protection in total disregard to Muslims' feelings and freedom of religion.
He said that the Israeli continued violations in al-Aqsa Mosque aim at imposing a new fait accompli in al-Aqsa Mosque and to build their alleged Temple on its ruins, stressing that what is happening to Jerusalem is a shame on leaders of the Islamic nations.
He praised the steadfastness of the Palestinian people in Jerusalem who continue to defend Al-Aqsa Mosque.
Radwan said that the unfair Israeli siege on Gaza aims at undermining Palestinian resistance, praising Gazan people's steadfastness.
Radwan called on Fatah movement to implement Doha and Cairo agreements that stipulate the formation of a national unity government and achieving national reconciliation.
Commenting on a statement by one of the participants, Radwan stressed that resistance is a "red line", adding that it is a strategic option for the Palestinian people.
Freedom is guaranteed to all Palestinian people under the rule of law, he finally said in response to a question by one of the participants.
Radwan praised the workshop, which contained participants from all Palestinian political parties, considering it a contribution to the national reconciliation.
Radwan pointed to the Israeli settlers' escalated break-ins into al-Aqsa mosque under Israeli forces' protection in total disregard to Muslims' feelings and freedom of religion.
He said that the Israeli continued violations in al-Aqsa Mosque aim at imposing a new fait accompli in al-Aqsa Mosque and to build their alleged Temple on its ruins, stressing that what is happening to Jerusalem is a shame on leaders of the Islamic nations.
He praised the steadfastness of the Palestinian people in Jerusalem who continue to defend Al-Aqsa Mosque.
Radwan said that the unfair Israeli siege on Gaza aims at undermining Palestinian resistance, praising Gazan people's steadfastness.
Radwan called on Fatah movement to implement Doha and Cairo agreements that stipulate the formation of a national unity government and achieving national reconciliation.
Commenting on a statement by one of the participants, Radwan stressed that resistance is a "red line", adding that it is a strategic option for the Palestinian people.
Freedom is guaranteed to all Palestinian people under the rule of law, he finally said in response to a question by one of the participants.
I want a homeland that does not require the occupation of another people in order to maintain itself,' says Yuval Diskin. On the eve of another attempt by United States Secretary of State John Kerry to revitalize the peace process, former Shin Bet chief Yuval Diskin harshly criticized [Israeli] government policies regarding the Palestinians and stated that "the ramifications of failed negotiations are far graver for Israel's future than the Iranian nuclear program."
"We need an agreement now, before we get to a point of no return, after which a two-state solution will be impossible," Diskin said at an event commemorating the tenth anniversary of the Geneva Initiative. "I say it even though it is unpopular to do so."
Diskin said, "I would like to know that our home here has clear borders, and that we're putting the sanctity of people before the sanctity of land. I want a homeland that does not require the occupation of another people in order to maintain itself."
"The Geneva Initiative is a solid foundation for a solution of two states for two peoples," Diskin continued, "The negotiations have worn thin – the time has come for a decision to be made."
The Geneva Initiative is an unofficial proposal for peace that was released in October 2003 by a private group of Israelis and Palestinians. The initiative was spearheaded by Oslo architect and former deputy foreign minister Yossi Beilin on the Israeli side, and former minister Yasser Abed Rabbo for the Palestinians.
Kerry was due to arrive in Israel Wednesday night for a two-and-a-half day visit focused on the Israeli-Palestinian peace talks. He will meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem on Thursday morning and with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in Ramallah.
"It does not seem as though the current government is trying to change the ongoing trend in the settlements," Diskin said. "Our friends in the world are giving up when it comes to implementing the two-state solution. There is great frustration in the West Bank. The Palestinians feel that their country is being stolen from them. Among many Palestinians there is a feeling that there is no future, just a negative past."
Warning of the dangers of postponing peace, Diskin continued: "We must take into account the relationship between the Palestinians and their brothers, the [Palestinians living within the 1948 occupied territories]. The amount of fumes in the air has reached such a level that a tiny spark can cause a huge fire. The situation is very tense, and can explode at any moment."
Diskin also referred to remarks made by Economy Minister Naftali Bennett, saying that "we mustn't relate to the Palestinian issue asshrapnel in our behind, because soon enough, in a single state for two peoples, they will start to ask – who is the shrapnel, and who is the behind? In such a state, the vision of a Jewish and democratic state will be lost and gone."
Diskin added: "The coalition in Israel and the problems of control in the Likud are making an agreement with the Palestinians impossible. The tension between the two peoples is making it impossible to reach and implement an agreement. We must seriously include Jordan and Egypt in the negotiations with the Palestinians – it is critical for reaching an agreement."
"We must create hope. We must give both peoples the feeling that there is a chance for peace. The cynical, political deal set in place by the government to prevent a settlement freeze during the early stages of the negotiations was irritating, and rightly so," he said.
"We must create a new coalition in the Israeli government, one that includes the parties that support peace," Diskin said, adding, "My participation here does not hint at any political intentions I might have."
"There are those in Israel who say that Jordan is the Palestinian state," said Diskin, "Jordan is not Palestine, just like Uganda couldn't be a home for the Jews. Some propose a unilateral withdrawal (from the Palestinian territories) should the negotiations fail. Such a move would not solve the core of the problem. It would create security issues in the West Bank and eternalize the occupation where it is... Will the Palestinians earn full equality in such a state, or just be residents without voting rights? Masses of Palestinians and [Palestinians living within the 1948 occupied territories] taking to the streets is a perfectly plausible scenario, and not an extreme one."
Haaretz revealed on Wednesday morning that Kerry plans to present Netanyahu with an American plan for security arrangements in the West Bank to be implemented after the founding of a Palestinian state. The plan was devised by retired General John Allen, former commander of the American forces in Afghanistan. Allen will participate in the meeting between Kerry and Netanyahu, and will summarize his recommendations, in order to receive Israeli input.
This article was originally published on Haaretz.
"We need an agreement now, before we get to a point of no return, after which a two-state solution will be impossible," Diskin said at an event commemorating the tenth anniversary of the Geneva Initiative. "I say it even though it is unpopular to do so."
Diskin said, "I would like to know that our home here has clear borders, and that we're putting the sanctity of people before the sanctity of land. I want a homeland that does not require the occupation of another people in order to maintain itself."
"The Geneva Initiative is a solid foundation for a solution of two states for two peoples," Diskin continued, "The negotiations have worn thin – the time has come for a decision to be made."
The Geneva Initiative is an unofficial proposal for peace that was released in October 2003 by a private group of Israelis and Palestinians. The initiative was spearheaded by Oslo architect and former deputy foreign minister Yossi Beilin on the Israeli side, and former minister Yasser Abed Rabbo for the Palestinians.
Kerry was due to arrive in Israel Wednesday night for a two-and-a-half day visit focused on the Israeli-Palestinian peace talks. He will meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem on Thursday morning and with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in Ramallah.
"It does not seem as though the current government is trying to change the ongoing trend in the settlements," Diskin said. "Our friends in the world are giving up when it comes to implementing the two-state solution. There is great frustration in the West Bank. The Palestinians feel that their country is being stolen from them. Among many Palestinians there is a feeling that there is no future, just a negative past."
Warning of the dangers of postponing peace, Diskin continued: "We must take into account the relationship between the Palestinians and their brothers, the [Palestinians living within the 1948 occupied territories]. The amount of fumes in the air has reached such a level that a tiny spark can cause a huge fire. The situation is very tense, and can explode at any moment."
Diskin also referred to remarks made by Economy Minister Naftali Bennett, saying that "we mustn't relate to the Palestinian issue asshrapnel in our behind, because soon enough, in a single state for two peoples, they will start to ask – who is the shrapnel, and who is the behind? In such a state, the vision of a Jewish and democratic state will be lost and gone."
Diskin added: "The coalition in Israel and the problems of control in the Likud are making an agreement with the Palestinians impossible. The tension between the two peoples is making it impossible to reach and implement an agreement. We must seriously include Jordan and Egypt in the negotiations with the Palestinians – it is critical for reaching an agreement."
"We must create hope. We must give both peoples the feeling that there is a chance for peace. The cynical, political deal set in place by the government to prevent a settlement freeze during the early stages of the negotiations was irritating, and rightly so," he said.
"We must create a new coalition in the Israeli government, one that includes the parties that support peace," Diskin said, adding, "My participation here does not hint at any political intentions I might have."
"There are those in Israel who say that Jordan is the Palestinian state," said Diskin, "Jordan is not Palestine, just like Uganda couldn't be a home for the Jews. Some propose a unilateral withdrawal (from the Palestinian territories) should the negotiations fail. Such a move would not solve the core of the problem. It would create security issues in the West Bank and eternalize the occupation where it is... Will the Palestinians earn full equality in such a state, or just be residents without voting rights? Masses of Palestinians and [Palestinians living within the 1948 occupied territories] taking to the streets is a perfectly plausible scenario, and not an extreme one."
Haaretz revealed on Wednesday morning that Kerry plans to present Netanyahu with an American plan for security arrangements in the West Bank to be implemented after the founding of a Palestinian state. The plan was devised by retired General John Allen, former commander of the American forces in Afghanistan. Allen will participate in the meeting between Kerry and Netanyahu, and will summarize his recommendations, in order to receive Israeli input.
This article was originally published on Haaretz.
Political bureau member of Hamas Ezzet Al-Resheq has warned of new security arrangements being prepared by the American administration for the expected PA-Israeli settlement. Resheq said in a press release on Wednesday commenting on US secretary of state John Kerry’s visit to the region that the American administration had proven on more than one occasion its unwavering bias in support of Israel.
Kerry’s repeated visits to the region only target pressuring the Palestinian negotiator into surrendering more concessions and acquiescing to Israeli schemes, he added.
He said that such a security plan within what the Hebrew press called “permanent settlement” would only be harmful to the Palestinian people’s interests and would serve the “Zionist enemy’s agenda”.
Resheq affirmed that the Palestinian masses would never accept any agreement concluded away from national consensus and any settlement that would surrender national rights and constants.
The Hamas leader urged the Palestinian Authority not to bow to American pressures, asking leaders of Fatah faction, the main component of the PA in Ramallah, to immediately end the negotiations process and return to the national reconciliation process.
Kerry’s repeated visits to the region only target pressuring the Palestinian negotiator into surrendering more concessions and acquiescing to Israeli schemes, he added.
He said that such a security plan within what the Hebrew press called “permanent settlement” would only be harmful to the Palestinian people’s interests and would serve the “Zionist enemy’s agenda”.
Resheq affirmed that the Palestinian masses would never accept any agreement concluded away from national consensus and any settlement that would surrender national rights and constants.
The Hamas leader urged the Palestinian Authority not to bow to American pressures, asking leaders of Fatah faction, the main component of the PA in Ramallah, to immediately end the negotiations process and return to the national reconciliation process.
Building in Ariel settlement, near Salfit, was noticeably accelerating indicating growing expansion activity inside one of the biggest settlements in the West Bank. Activists following up settlement activity in Salfit said that bulldozers were seen leveling land in preparation for building new apartments as trucks loaded with construction material were seen entering the settlement.
Khaled Ma’ali, a researcher in settlement activity, said that settlers were building new settlement units in various settlements in Salfit province.
He said that Ariel settlement was established in 1978 and is inhabited by 35,000 settlers including 12,000 students studying in Ariel University.
Khaled Ma’ali, a researcher in settlement activity, said that settlers were building new settlement units in various settlements in Salfit province.
He said that Ariel settlement was established in 1978 and is inhabited by 35,000 settlers including 12,000 students studying in Ariel University.
