While Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu continues to release messages of calm and reassurance regarding ongoing negotiations with the PA (Palestinian Authority), a senior staff member told the press Mr. Netanyahu feels residents of yishuvim that will find themselves in Palestine should be permitted to remain under PA rule, as Israeli citizens. This is based on an AP report released quoting “a senior staff member” in the Prime Minister’s Office.

Some feel the statement made by officials attending the World Economic Summit in Davos was a trial balloon to test the waters as the administrations readies to make additional land concessions to the PA. The prime minister is quoted saying he feels Israelis wishing to remain in their homes in the State of Palestine should have that right.

Bayit Yehudi leader Naftali Bennett regards the statement as most serious and its represents “a loss of values”. Bennett adds “2000 years of longing for Eretz Yisrael were not to live under the rule of Abu Mazen, and one who even considers this idea is dropping out the floor from under us regarding our right to remain in Tel Aviv. The idea that the Tanzim will protect Ariel and the al-Aqsa Brigade will watch over Maale Adumim is absurd”.

PA Chairman Mahmoud Abbas (Abu Mazen) released a statement that his new state will not include any “settlers”.

Some Likud MKs and cabinet ministers have threatened that if the prime minister actually tries to implement such a plan they will move to oust him as the Likud leader. Interestingly, a similar internal situation in Likud led to former Prime Minister Ariel Sharon breaking away to launch the Kadima party.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)