Officials in the US State Department released messages on Monday opposing a unilateral PA (Palestinian Authority) declaration of statehood, seeking to prevent PA Chairman Mahmoud Abbas (Abu Mazen) from taking such as step, as he is indicating the move is likely.

Officials in the State Department expressed their support for a “contiguous state”, adding such a reality is best achieved through negotiations and reaching agreement with Israel.

Spokesman Ian Kelly stressed “we support the creation of a Palestinian state”, but insists diplomatic talks is the only way to achieve such an entity.

Speaking with members of the Press at the Jerusalem Saban Forum, US Senator Joseph Lieberman stated he assumes America would veto such a unilateral action is brought before the UN Security Council. “I call on our allies in the Arab world to stop this now. It is going be a destructive waste of time. Let us do everything we can to get Israel and the Palestinian Authority back to the negotiating table; that is the way to make progress here” the senator added.

In the meantime, Abu Mazen is continuing shuttle diplomacy and lobbying efforts, seeking to enlist support for usurp Israel’s right to make demands at the negotiating table, seeking to create facts on the ground that will sorely undermine Israeli interests, while trying to propel himself to the top of popularity polls ahead of the January 24, 2010 PA elections.

(Yechiel Spira – YWN Israel)