Abbas urges Arab action on Jerusalem
After meeting Mubarak in Sharm el-Sheik Palestinian president says will accept any stance adopted by Arab League, asks for Arab support in maintaining Palestinian presence in capital
The Palestinian president noted that PA representatives will participate in the Arab League's internal regulations committee in order to be acquainted with the Arab stance. "We shall present the committee with all of the details and will respect any outcome."
Abbas said that the Palestinians continue to discuss the resuming negotiations' elements with the Americans including a timetable for talks.
He acknowledged the complexity of matters. "The situation in Israel and the territories is complex. Construction in settlements continues and the last Israeli move regarding heritage sites only adds problems with each passing day. We cannot remain silent, especially in light of the violation of holy sites.
"The Arabs need to take a clear stand in this month's Arab summit in Libya regarding Israel's steps in the holy sites, and particularly in the al-Aqsa Mosque."
Abbas further added, "The Arabs must take Jerusalem under their wing and give enough support in order to allow us to continue to live there, build there and sustain the Palestinian residents because Israel is expelling the Palestinians in Jerusalem. If the Arab nation doesn't act quickly, then I fear it'll be too late."
The Palestinian president also addressed reports of Hamas's participation in the summit and said he wasn't aware of the group's representatives being invited.
