Palestinians Warn: Jerusalem Settlements Will End Peace Talks

The Palestinians said Tuesday that Israeli plans to build 1,600 new settler homes in occupied Jerusalem would "hinder" US-led indirect peace talks.

"This is a dangerous decision and will hinder the negotiations," Palestinian Authority spokesman Nabil Abu Rudeina told AFP. "We consider the decision to build in east Jerusalem to be a judgment that the American efforts have failed before the indirect negotiations have even begun," he added.

Israel's announcement of the new project came as US Vice President Joe Biden was in the region to encourage both sides to revive direct negotiations after the Palestinians grudgingly agreed to indirect talks.
¬