Mahmoud Abbas
Photo: Reuters
Ramat Shlomo
Photo: Guy Asayag
Abbas, Ben Ali discuss Israeli 'settlement' plan
In Tunisia, Palestinian president says approval of plan to construct 1,600 housing units in east Jerusalem 'got in the way of' plans to launch indirect talks
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas says he and Tunisia's leader, Zine El Abidine Ben Ali, have discussed how the Arab League should respond to an Israeli plan for new construction in disputed east Jerusalem.
The plan includes the construction of 1,600 homes in east Jerusalem's Ramat Shlomo neighborhood.
American VP's Visit
Attila Somfalvi and agencies
American VP opens high-profile speech at Tel Aviv University by saying US has no better friend than Israel. Negotiations with Palestinians cannot be delayed, he says, 'because when progress is postponed, extremists exploit our differences'
Abbas, speaking Friday during a visit to Tunisia, says Israel's move "got in the way of" plans to begin US-mediated indirect talks with Israel.
The 22-nation Arab League, which gave Abbas the backing to resume talks with Israel, has recommended withdrawing support for indirect talks following the Israeli plan.
The league's peace initiative committee decision is only a recommendation. A final decision must be made by the foreign ministers of the Arab nations.
Abbas arrived Thursday in Tunis and is expected to leave Saturday.
