French Foreign Minister Jean-Marc Ayrault recently announced his country plans to host a Mideast peace conference to advance a final agreement between Israel and the PA (Palestinian Authority). He stated that both sides are far apart and he is acting in “good faith” to bridge the gap.

The Prime Minister’s Office has responded to the latest French initiative, explaining a final agreement will only be achieved through direct negotiations. The official statement reads; “Israel adheres to its position that the best way to resolve the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians is direct, bilateral negotiations. Israel is ready to begin them immediately without preconditions. Any other diplomatic initiative distances the Palestinians from direct negotiations.”

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)