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July 22, 2013

Palestinian Authority: Formal Talks Won't Happen Without Israeli Settlement Freeze 
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The Obama administration has announced an agreement to convene
preliminary talks between Israel and the Palestinian Authority after
nearly three years. Talks have been stalled since late 2010 over
Palestinian demands that Israel halt settlement expansion in the
occupied West Bank. On Friday, Secretary of State John Kerry said he's
secured pledges to hold initial talks.

Secretary of State John Kerry: "I am pleased to announce that we have
reached an agreement that establishes a basis for resuming direct final
status negotiations between the Palestinians and the Israelis. This is a
significant and welcome step forward. We know that the challenges
require some very tough choices in the days ahead. Today, however, I am
hopeful."

Kerry says he expects to host officials from both sides in the coming
weeks. The Palestinian Authority has already played down the agreement,
saying it would not begin formal negotiations until Israel meets its
demand to freeze settlement expansion.

 

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