World must get tough with Israel

Dubai: Even though the political crisis between the United States and Israel over the latter's colony policies has been "settled," it is far from over for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Netanyahu is still facing international pressure as opposition to his controversial policies grows.

One analyst questioned the effect of maintaining verbal pressure when the international community can resort to a tougher course of action.

Ahmad Al Tibi, leader of the Arab Nationalist Party in Israel (The Arab Movement for Renewal), expressed pessimism towards the prospects of any serious push in the peace process.

"[Netanyahu offered a] few cosmetic decisions that are not of high importance, but later stressed he is not willing to completely freeze colony activities in [occupied] East Jerusalem," Al Tibi told Gulf News.

Al Tibi is also Deputy Speaker of the Knesset.

Expanding talks

Netanyahu was quoted as saying that he would expand indirect talks with the Palestinians to include the main issues dividing the two sides. He, however, added that Israel would continue building colonies in occupied Jerusalem.

"We will continue to build in [occupied] Jerusalem as we have done for 42 years. The policy of construction in [occupied] Jerusalem is the same as in Tel Aviv," he said.

Netanyahu is expected to meet US president Barack Obama Tuesday. Meanwhile, US envoy George Mitchell has returned to Israel a few days after Israel announced plans to build 1,600 new homes in occupied East Jerusalem.

Israel's colony plans have met with condemnation from other major parties to the peace process, including the Quartet that is made up of the United States, the United Nations, the European Union and Russia.

Mitchell arrived in Israel yesterday as part of fresh attempts to restart the stalled peace talks. He is expected to meet Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas today in Jordan, Palestinian sources have said.

However, the situation on the ground pointed to further strains that are likely to affect talks.

Israeli troops yesterday killed two Palestinians near the West Bank city of Nablus after they tried to stab a soldier. Israel troops also shot and killed a Palestinian near Nablus in clashes with Palestinians on Saturday.

Another Palestinian injured in the Saturday clashes died yesterday. Prior to this, the Israeli army had attacked an unused Gaza airport days injuring many Palestinians.

UN chief Ban Ki-moon yesterday criticised the Israeli blockade saying it was causing "unacceptable suffering."

Al Tibi called for real pressure against Israel.

"It is true that there is a clear international position [against Israel]. Israel has been subjected to international [verbal] criticism for a long time," he said.

"What has it achieved? There should be a real pressure on the Israeli government that [borders on] punishment and direct diplomatic pressure."