Israeli minister warms to choice of Hagel for Pentagon ATFP World Press Roundup Article from Reuters by Dan Williams - January 8, 2013 - 1:00am   A senior Israeli diplomat has given a positive view of Chuck Hagel's nomination as U.S. defense secretary, though some commentators in the Jewish state expressed worries that the choice could open a new fissure in bedrock ties with Washington. » Read more

Hagel nomination unnerves some in Israel ATFP World Press Roundup Article from Associated Press by Amy Teibel - January 8, 2013 - 1:00am   » Read more

For Netanyahu, Being Favored to Win Carries Its Own Risks ATFP World Press Roundup Article from The New York Times by Jodi Rudoren - January 8, 2013 - 1:00am   Can a candidate ever be too far in the lead for his own good? » Read more

Palestinians refuse Israel's objection of "State of Palestine" ATFP World Press Roundup Article from Xinhua January 7, 2013 - 1:00am    The Palestinian leadership refused Monday Israel's objection of using the words "State of Palestine" instead of Palestinian National Authority (PNA) after its status upgrade in the United Nations. "Israel should abide by the UN resolutions," Palestinian chief negotiator Saeb Ereekat told Xinhua. » Read more

State of Palestine name change shows limitations ATFP World Press Roundup Article from Associated Press by Karin Laub - January 7, 2013 - 1:00am   With U.N. recognition of a Palestinian state in his pocket, President Mahmoud Abbas wants official documents to carry a new emblem: "State of Palestine." » Read more