Palestinian President calls for US commitment on Palestinian borders

Ramallah, West Bank: Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas has told his Fatah movement he wants a more specific US commitment on the borders of a future Palestinian state, before agreeing to direct talks with Israel.

He says he received assurances from President Barack Obama, but that they weren't clear enough.

He spoke on Tuesday at a closed-door meeting with Fatah leaders. His comments were later published in a Palestinian daily and confirmed by his adviser Sabri Saidam.

US President Obama wants Abbas to resume direct talks. Abbas however first wants assurances that a state will be established in the West Bank, Gaza and occupied East Jerusalem, allowing for minor alterations.