New York, NY, July 29, 2010 … The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) today called on Palestinian Authority (PA) President Mahmoud Abbas to "stop the excuses, demands and delays" and enter into direct negotiations with Israel.  ADL made the call following the Arab League announcement that they support direct talks in "principle" and that it is up to the Palestinian Authority to determine how and when to proceed.

Robert G. Sugarman, ADL National Chair, and Abraham H. Foxman, ADL National Director, issued the following statement:

It is time for President Abbas and the Palestinian Authority to stop the excuses, demands and delays and have the courage and vision to engage in direct negotiations with Israel without preconditions.  The Arab League statement has made clear that the decision regarding negotiations is up to the Palestinian Authority alone. 

 

Through good times and bad, Israel and the Palestinians have maintained official, direct negotiations since September 13, 1993.  Prime Minister Netanyahu has made clear his desire for a two-state negotiated agreement with the Palestinian Authority, and even agreed to a 10-month moratorium on settlement building as a sign of good will.   The only impediment to progress has been the Palestinian Authority which has demanded ineffective, indirect negotiations.