Barak says peace talks should address all issues
While US demands Israel include core issues in indirect talks with Palestinians, defense minister stresses Netanyahu, Abbas should address all topics as part of negotiations, during visit in Spain
Defense Minister Ehud Barak addressed the negotiations with the Palestinians on Tuesday, on the backdrop of the Jerusalem riots.
During a meeting with Spanish Foreign Minister Miguel Moratinos Barak said, "The way to test Netanyahu and Abu Mazen's (Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas) seriousness is to get them in a room in order to negotiate, with all issues on the table."
One of the demands set by the US to Israel following the construction crisis in Jerusalem was including core issues in the indirect talks with the Palestinians.
During his meeting in Spain, Barak further noted, "We must make every effort to promote the resumption of negotiations. We must move forward towards a political process as soon as possible."
Moratinos replied, "One must proceed resolutely in an effort to reach a two-state solution." He also noted that Spain endorsed US President Barack Obama's outline plan to solve the conflict.
The defense minister also addressed threats on Israel. In respect to the current state in the north he noted, "There is no danger of a military conflict in the north," and said that "Israel isn't interested in raising tensions."
Nevertheless, Barak expressed concern over Syria's support of Hezbollah and other terror organizations. He praised the Spanish force acting as part of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) and warned of Hezbollah gaining power at the expense of the Lebanese government.
