For Immediate Release

March 5, 2010

Palestine Liberation Organization
Negotiations Affairs Department

Dr. Erakat: “Israeli aggression in East Jerusalem is the Israeli response to the Arab readiness to engage in proximity talks”

Chief Palestinian Negotiator Dr. Saeb Erakat has condemned the new Israeli aggression against Palestinians in occupied East Jerusalem.

“We see this aggression against our people and holy sites as the Israeli response to the Arab League follow up committee decision to give an opportunity to proximity talks towards a peaceful settlement”.

On Friday, March 5th 2010, Israeli occupation forces attacked Palestinians after their prayers at Haram el Sharif in occupied East Jerusalem, leaving dozens hurt as well as several detainees.

“This aggression follows last week’s announcement of Israeli intention to construct more housing units in settlements in occupied East Jerusalem as well PM Netanyahu’s statement that Israel will keep the ‘Jordan Valley’ under its control. This also comes after the Israeli government adopted a plan to include Palestinian religious and heritage sites on the Israeli national heritage list. Today’s aggression is simply the conclusion of a week where Israel did everything possible to tell us they are not serious about peace.”

“Following Arab willingness to engage in proximity talks towards peace, the ball is now in the court of the international community and the United States to take action in response to Israeli aggression and ensure a conductive environment for peace negotiations. This can only be done if Israel is held accountable to international law and its obligations under the Road Map, including a full settlement freeze and end to violence.” chief Palestinian negotiator Dr. Saeb Erakat concluded.

Contact for more information:

Xavier Abu Eid (English and Spanish) 
Mobile: +972-598-350-300 | xabueid@nsu-pal.org

Ekram Nicola (English, Arabic and Hebrew) 
Mobile: +972-505-671-589 | enicola@nsu-pal.org