Responds to PA threat. Netanyahu
Photo: Reuters
Netanyahu to PA: No preconditions for peace talks
PM's office says Israel setting no preconditions ahead of direct negotiations, but stresses 'importance of security arrangements, demilitarization' in any agreement
"Israel is not setting any preconditions ahead of the direct talks," Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said Monday.
Israel and the Palestinians are due to resume peace negotiations in Washington on September 2.
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Netanyahu's media advisor, Nir Hefetz, said the PM is "justifiably stressing the importance of security arrangements and demilitarization as part of any peace agreement."
Netanyahu was responding to the Palestinians' threat that they would suspend negotiations should Israel resume construction in the West Bank after the moratorium expires on September 26.
The forum of seven ministers has been debating the matter extensively, and Minister Dan Meridor (Likud) suggested resuming construction only in settlement blocs that are expected to remain under Israeli control as part of any agreement.
At least four inner-cabinet ministers – Avigdor Lieberman (Yisrael Beiteinu), Eli Yishai (Shas), Benny Begin (Likud) and Moshe Yaalon (Likud) – object to Meridor's proposal.
PM Netanyahu also insists that construction will resume in all Jewish settlements in accordance with the government's decision, but he is willing to examine Meridor's proposal so as not to be accused of thwarting the direct negotiations.
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