(Communicated by the Foreign Ministry Spokesperson)
Foreign Minister Avigdor Liberman briefed foreign ambassadors to Israel this evening (Sunday 13 April 2014) at the Foreign Ministry in Jerusalem, and said that "Israel was very close to implementing the the package deal with the Palestinians, a very complicated agreement that was about to be approved by the Cabinet, but at the last minute the Palestinians violated their commitments and applied for membership to 15 international conventions.
Once again, Abu Mazen has refused to commit at the last minute, in the same manner as he did in Annapolis when he refused to sign the proposal submitted by former Prime Minister Olmert and Arafat's retreat in Camp David after the proposal submitted by former Prime minister Barak. Therefore, it is not at all clear whether Abu Mazen wants ito reach an agreement, or simply wants to focus on the blame game."
FM Liberman also said that that is unconstructive to encourage unilateral steps such as the Palestinian violation of their commitments, which will only lead to an impasse.
"Anyone who wants to help the process should retain a balanced outlook and not lay the blame on Israel. Today, while the Middle East is on fire, and there is only one island of stability and democracy - the State of Israel - the relationship between Israel and the Palestinians is also under control. We therefore expect more understanding for our requirements, especially our security requirements, from the international community."