The Israeli-Palestinian conflict is one of the most sensitive issues and is most talked about. Mr. Fayyad’s meeting with Ms. Livni is surely for the benefit of both concerned countries. Meeting was held in Jerusalem to show support to Mahmoud Abbas who is moderate Palestinian leader.
It is noteworthy that Israel rejected Saudi-led peace plan in 2002 but they gave it a consideration and welcomed peace talks led by moderate Arabs states in the beginning of this year.
According to Israeli and Arab officials for the first time Arab League’s delegation will go to Israel this week. Main agenda of the visit is to concentrate on Arab peace initiative and to discuss about the ways in which Palestinian Authorities can be helped.
Outcome
Israel issued a statement after Ms. Livni and Mr. Fayyad’s meeting in which they said
“The discussion dealt primarily with the situation in the Palestinian Authority [PA] and the ways of improving the lives of the residents in the territories while preserving Israeli security interests.”
In another statement that was issued by Mr. Fayyad’s office it was said that meeting focused on
“broader political issues, not just removing a checkpoint here and there”
As a direct effect of the meeting Israel will be releasing 250 Palestinian prisoners on coming Sunday. Other than Israel, US have also supported Mr. Abbas strongly.
Egyptian Foreign Minister Ahmed Abul Gheit and Jordanian Foreign Minister Abd-al-Ilah al-Khatib may give Israel a visit.
Mark Regev, Israeli Foreign Ministry spokesman, said
“This is the first time the Arab League is coming to Israel. From its inception the Arab League has been hostile to Israel. It will be the first time we’ll be flying the Arab League flag.”
On other hand member of Palestinian militant group, Islamic Jihad, Mahmud Nazal, was killed by Israeli forces. As per Palestinian hospital officials he was shot when he was driving his car near the town Jenin.
