The Washington Post reports that Israeli and Palestinian negotiators will resume long-stalled (40 some years, isn’t it?) direct peace talks this Monday. The State Department announced yesterday that the two sides had accepted invitations (?) from Secretary of State John Kerry to resume talks following Kerry’s six-month “frenetic shuttle diplomacy.’
“Both leaders have demonstrated a willingness to make difficult decisions that have been instrumental in getting to this point,” Kerry said in the statement. “We are grateful for their leadership.”
In related news, Fox News reports,
“The State Department confirmed this month the administration has moved forward with $500 million in aid, and is trying to secure another $200 million from Congress. Department spokeswoman Victoria Nuland says the aid is important, because an “economically viable Palestinian Authority” would help regional peace and security.”
Difficult decisions indeed. Netanyahu and the Israeli Cabinet agree to release 104 Palestinian terrorists and Mahmoud Abbas…well, his difficult decision was whether to accept a mere $500 million for a pointless two-day meeting or hold out for $200 million more.
David Online 