Israeli Prime Minister reiterated his demands that the Palestinians must recognize Israel as a Jewish state, and said that Israel will never abandon this demand.His statements came during a meeting with heads of Jewish organizations in the United States.
Netanyahu said that Palestinian President, Mahmoud Abbas, cannot search for alternatives to this demand, and must clearly declare that he recognizes Israel as a Jewish state as it is the state of the Jewish people.
He also stated that Israel will insist on certain arrangements under any peace deal including retaining presence along the Jordan Valley.
In related news, Israeli sources reported that Netanyahu intends to submit a draft law requiring a public referendum on any permanent peace agreement with the Palestinians.
The new draft is expected to be submitted by Likud member of Knesset Ofir Akonis, one of the close associates of Netanyahu.
