NEWS:
Israeli officials confirm they are not only planning building in the
sensitive E1 corridor, but also the extremely controversial Givat
HaMatos settlement near Beit Safafa. Israeli media reports suggest
construction is aimed more at the United States than at the
Palestinians. Leading European states and Australia summon Israel's
ambassadors to complain about settlement construction. The US also
intensifies its criticism. Palestinians say they might pursue war
crimes charges if Israel continues with the settlement plan.
Palestinian officials say they're ready to resume negotiations with
Israel. Israel arrests settlers suspected of attacks in the occupied
West Bank. The UN General Assembly calls on Israel to open its nuclear
facilities to international inspection. Hamas' leader Al-Zahar says
armed struggle is the only way forward for Palestinians. The UN
accuses Syria of violating the 1974 cease-fire terms with Israel.
COMMENTARY:
ATFP calls on the US to ensure Israel doesn't build in E1. Hussein
Ibish says the international community must stop Israel's settlement
plan or drop the pretense of pursuing a two-state solution. The New
York Times says Netanyahu is making a strategic mistake by planning to
build in E1. Reuven Pedatzur says, now that the war is over, Israeli
officials must explain their decision to assassinate Hamas commander
Jabari. Ha'aretz says Netanyahu is behaving recklessly. Shlomo Avineri
explains how Israel might've used the Palestinian UN initiative to its
own advantage. Emanuel Rosen says extremists on both sides are leading
Israel and the Palestinians towards disaster. Gerson Baskin says the
conflict is entering a lose-lose scenario, although it is not too
late. Ian Black says it's time for Europe to propose its own peace
initiative. Mary Robinson and Martti Ahtisaari say Europe can make its
voice heard by boycotting settlement products. Yossi Alpher looks of
the lessons of the recent Gaza conflict. The Daily Star says if the
West wants peace, it's going to have to stand up to Israel on
settlements. Blake Hounshell interviews former PM Olmert. Alon Pinkas
says the two-state solution is in big trouble. Michael Koplow says
Netanyahu is bluffing about building in E1.
American Task Force on Palestine - 1634 Eye St. NW, Suite 725, Washington DC 20006 - Telephone: 202-262-0017