Palestinian Presidency Spokesperson, Nabil Abu Rodeina, stated that “words about the willingness to achieve peace” are not sufficient to realize this peace on the ground, adding that Israel talks about peace but continues to build illegal settlements.His statements came in response to a statement made by Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, who told the CNN that “he is willing to reach a peace agreement that establishes an independent Palestinian State”.
Abu Rodeina said that if Israel is really interested in peace it must stop all of its illegal settlement activities, especially in occupied Jerusalem, in addition to dismantling its settlements under any peace agreement with the Palestinians.
He further stated that Israel must clearly announce its acceptance to the two-state solution based on the June 4, 1967 borders, and all related international resolutions, including the full Israeli withdrawal from the occupied territories, and the Right of Return of the Palestinian refugees.
“Should Israel start acting within International Law and all related United Nations and Security Council resolutions, the Palestinians will be fully willing to return to the negotiations table, and reach a comprehensive peace agreement “, Abu Rodeina concluded.
All Israeli settlements in the occupied territories, including those in and around Israeli controlled East Jerusalem, are illegal under international law and the Fourth Geneva Convention to which Israel is a signatory.
