The PA (Palestinian Authority) late Monday night the eve of 8 Teves submitted its draft resolution to the UN calling for an end to the Israeli occupation by the end of 2017. The US informed PA officials of its objections, with a State Department spokesman indicating “arbitrary deadlines are not helpful”.

American officials added the PA’s resolution failed to take Israeli security concerns into consideration and this was an integral component towards reaching a long term comprehensive agreement.

Despite the American and Israeli objections, PA Chairman Abu Mazen insisted he will move forward and the PA will demand an Israeli withdrawal from areas liberated in the June 1967 Six Day War, including areas of the eastern capital, which the PA envisions will serve as the capital of the State of Palestine.

Israel threatened if the PA moves ahead with the unilateral initiative and it is passed, Jerusalem will respond harshly. Abu Mazen threatened the US in the hope of preventing Washington from vetoing the resolution if passed. Ramallah announced that if America vetoes the resolution, it will halt all security cooperation with Israel. Minister of Intelligence & Strategic Affairs Dr. Yuval Steinitz calls for dissolving the PA in the event the unilateral initiative is passed.

If the resolution is approved by the Security Council, Israel expects the United States to use its veto authority.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)