Sending a clear message to visiting US Mideast envoy George Mitchell ahead of Tuesday’s scheduled meeting, Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu announced there would not be a total building freeze in Yehuda and Shomron. Addressing a session of the Knesset Foreign Affairs & Defense Committee on Monday, the prime minister announced “America is calling for a total cessation of construction” adding “I told them this was not possible and that we would continue with 2,500 housing units already under construction”. He added that an additional 450 housing units have been authorized in Yehuda and Shomron.
He went on to explain that he promised to consider the American request, but stated that Jerusalem is not up for discussion, namely he is unwilling to consider halting construction in the capital as the White House is demanding. “We will not accept any restrictions regarding eastern Jerusalem. Jerusalem is not a settlement and building will continue, addressing the housing shortage”.
Mr. Netanyahu spoke of a need to find a middle line, a gesture towards renewing diplomatic relations with the PA (Palestinian Authority) while addressing housing realities in communities throughout Yehuda and Shomron.
Regarding life for residents of PA autonomous areas, the prime minister explained that dozens of roadblocks and checkpoints have been removed, explaining his administration is taking significant steps towards boosting the PA economy. He pointed out that the Allenby Bridge crossing to Jordan is operating extended hours to facilitate traffic at the major commercial crossing point. He did not attempt to hide his disappointment with PA leader Abu Mazen, explaining while Israel continues exhibiting good will and taking steps towards accommodating the PA; there has not been any reciprocity. “Abu Mazen has decided to sit at the side and announce preconditions for the resumption of talks while we are not making any demands”.
The Prime Minister’s Office released a message on Monday that Mr. Netanyahu will be departing for New York City on Wednesday to attend the UN General Assembly on Thursday, adding to date, no scheduled meetings have been planned toward jumpstarting the diplomatic process with the PA. There have been rumors that during the GA, Netanyahu may meet with Abu Mazen in the format of a trilateral setting to include US President Barak Obama.
(Yechiel Spira – YWN Israel)
One Response
so has Netanyahu learned from Wye? Maybe, to be continued