Israel

August 20, 2010

U.S.: Direct talks ‘very close’

By Ron Kampeas, JTA

Tweet

Share

Direct talks between Israel and the Palestinians are “very, very close,” a U.S. State Department spokesman said, and Hillary Rodham Clinton is in constant telephone contact with the leaders.

“We think we’re very, very close, but there’s still work being done and there are details being worked out – should the parties come to an agreement to enter into direct negotiations?” P.J. Crowley said Thursday. “How will they – when will they happen? Where will they happen? What will be the agenda for the first meeting? There are still things that we’re working through.”

The New York Times reported Friday that Clinton, the U.S. secretary of state, was set to announce the resumption of talks in the United States in early September. The Times report, quoting U.S. officials, said talks would last for a year. Crowley would only say that Clinton is maintains daily phone contact with leaders in the region.

Israel wants talks without preconditions; the Palestinians want Israel to extend and expand the partial settlement freeze Netanyahu imposed last year, and want final status issues, including borders, Jerusalem and refugees on the table.

---

Post your comment below!

Click here to return to the homepage.

COMMENTS

We welcome your feedback. Comments may not exceed 700 characters.

Privacy Policy

Your information will not be shared or sold without your consent. Get all the details.

Terms of Service

JewishJournal.com has rules for its commenting community.Get all the details.

Post a Comment

Name:
Email:

Type the word you see below:

Comment:

Remember my personal information

Notify me of follow-up comments?