As Quartet tries to renew Israel-Palestinian talks, Lieberman steps up attack on Abbas

[Jefferson23]

Foreign Minister's office sends letter to ambassador claiming Abbas is main obstacle to the peace process; Quartet representatives hold meetings in Jerusalem and Ramallah.

By Barak Ravid

Foreign Minister Avigdor Lieberman's office released on Wednesday a document to dozens of foreign embassies, saying Palestinian President is the main obstacle to the peace process. The release of the document comes as the Quartet representatives are holding talks in Jerusalem and in Ramallah in an effort to renew negotiations.

On Monday, Lieberman called Abbas the "greatest obstacle" to regional order, telling reporters in Jerusalem it would be a "blessing" if the Palestinian leader were to resign.

The document was sent to all 27 European Union ambassadors in Israel and to ambassadors from the U.S., Russia, China, India, Japan, Colombia and Quartet envoy Tony Blair. It lists the positive steps Australia, Canada and Israel have taken toward the Palestinians during Benjamin Netanyahu's term, and contrasts them with the negative actions taken by the Palestinians during that time. The document ends with harsh criticism of Abbas.

"It is obvious today that (Abbas) is driven mainly by his concern for his historical legacy and personal welfare," the document states. "In light of what happened to his close colleagues – the former presidents of Tunisia and Egypt – (Abbas) is looking for a dignified exit from the political arena."

http://www.haaretz.com/news/diplomacy-defense/as-quartet-tries-to-renew-israel-palestinian-talks-lieberman-steps-up-attack-on-abbas-1.392155

[Jefferson23]

1. Palestinians: No talks unless Israel accepts preconditions

Palestinian negotiator Saeb Erekat calls on Quartet to 'explain, in practical terms' how renewed negotiations will differ from past failed attempts.

By DPA

Palestinians will be prepared to resume talks with Israel once the latter freezes all settlement activity and accepts clear frames of reference for the talks, Palestinian negotiator Saeb Erekat reaffirmed Wednesday.

"These are not favors that Israel is doing for us. These are its obligations in accordance with international law," Erekat said in a statement issued after he met in Jerusalem with representatives of the Mideast Quartet of international mediators, who began separate talks with both sides Wednesday in another effort to get peace talks going again.

in full: http://www.haaretz.com/news/diplomacy-defense/palestinians-no-talks-unless-israel-accepts-preconditions-1.392163