Originally posted by the Voice of America.
Voice of America content is produced by the Voice of America,
a United States federal government-sponsored entity, and is in
the public domain.


US Official: Administration Could Mediate Talks Between Israelis,
Palestinians

Nike Ching

   STATE DEPARTMENT - The United States could be a mediator in talks
   between the Israelis and the Palestinians, a senior U.S. official said,
   a day after President Donald Trump unveiled a detailed Middle East
   peace plan.

   Touted by Trump as a "win-win opportunity" for both sides and a
   "realistic two-state solution," the long-awaited Middle East peace plan
   waspraised as a victory by Israelbut was rejected by the Palestinians.

   "If there are things that [Palestinian]President [Mahmoud]Abbas doesn't
   like, then come to the table and tell the Israelis that, under the
   auspices of the United States. It's the best opportunity he's going to
   get. It's not going to get better from here," Brian Hook, U.S. special
   representative for Iran, said Wednesday in an interview with VOA.

   Previous U.S. administrations have facilitated dialogues between Israel
   and Palestine, setting parameters for a potential deal. Trump was seen
   as making a departure, choosing to release a detailed plan that appears
   to be supported only by Israel.

   The following are excerpts from VOA's interview with Hook. They
   havebeen edited for brevity and clarity.

.