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December 31, 2013

Israel Releases 26 Palestinian Prisoners amid Reports of New Settlement Plans 
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Israel has released a group of 26 Palestinian prisoners amid reports it
will unveil plans for 1,400 new settlement homes in the West Bank. The
prisoners are the third batch to be released since U.S.-brokered peace
talks began in July. Both of the earlier prisoner releases were also
accompanied by the announcement of new settlement plans. Palestinians
have warned the settlements could derail the peace talks. Secretary of
State John Kerry is returning to the region this week. Speaking Monday,
State Department spokesperson Marie Harf said Kerry will present a
proposed framework for a peace deal.

Marie Harf: "During this trip, the secretary will discuss with both
leaders the proposed framework for negotiations. As we've said, this
framework would serve as guidelines for the permanent status negotiation
and would address all the core issues. This is a detailed consultation
with the leaders, continuing to work to bridge gaps between the parties,
obviously continuing to encourage both sides to take constructive steps,
as we said, including the prisoner release this evening in Israel, as
well."

 

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