Senior PA (Palestinian Authority) negotiator Dr. Saeb Erekat is pleased with the change in the White House, releasing a statement that for the first time, the PA is in a position of power.

Erekat told BBC News that the American pressure being exerted on Israel is likely to result in progress on the diplomatic front in the region. He explained the United States in essence is finally accepting the PA claim which has been stated for years, that the settlements are a stumbling block to the peace process. He blames the settlements (yishuvim) for the violent Arab uprising known as the Second Intifada for the renewed attacks in 2000.

Erekat stated that following Abu Mazen’s return from the White House, it was clear the new administration is taking the lead and is directing the Congress and Department of State to accept the White House’s new agenda, an absolute opposition to continued construction in yishuvim. The senior PA official adds that on this matter, the construction, the American Jewish lobby is unwilling to oppose the White House.

Erekat made his remarks at a joint press conference following last week’s Ramallah meeting with US Mideast envoy George Mitchell, stating America supports an immediate return to the negotiating table based on the two-state solution formula with the realization both sides remain committed to the Roadmap Plan.

According to a Hamevaser report, Abu Mazen showed Mitchell maps that depict ongoing settlement expansion which must be halted.

(Yechiel Spira – YWN Israel)