The Egyptian government on Sunday said it backs Palestinian demands for halting Israeli settlement construction as a condition for resuming peace talks.
“Egypt’s reaction reflects an understanding of the Palestinian position," said Egypt’s Foreign Minister Ahmed Abul Gheit in a press conference on Sunday held with US Special Envoy to the Middle East George Mitchell.
Abul Gheit voiced support for the Palestinian stance towards negotiations, saying that current circumstances are “unfavorable” for direct talks. He said the next step is for the US, EU, UN Quartet, and the international community to continue pressuring Israel to extend the settlement freeze.
Abul Gheit said France’s offer to host a conference for all parties involved in the negotiations requires a prior settlement freeze.
Should Israel defy international demands and continue construction, Abul Gheit said parties involved would press for further US mediation.
Mitchell said impediments to peace are to be expected but those involved must insist on success. US President Barak Obama, according to Mitchell, prioritizes comprehensive regional peace that includes Israeli-Palestinian reconciliation and peaceful relations between Israel and Lebanon and Syria. Obama emphasizes the need for complete normalization of relations between Israel and the Arab World, added Mitchell.
Mitchell stressed that Palestinians and Israelis do not want the talks to cease despite the differences they share, adding that both urged the peace process sponsors to set the tone for direct talks. Mitchell also vowed to resume efforts within the coming few days with regional and European leaders.
Translated from the Arabic Edition.
