‘Abbas Goes Public with Plea to Obama to Impose Settlement

Palestinian Authority head Mahmoud ‘Abbas has called on U.S. President Barack Obama to impose a settlement on Israel and the Palestinians. ‘Abbas has made the request in closed-door meetings with American officials before, but on Saturday he made the plea public in a meeting with leaders of his Fatah party. Addressing President Obama, ‘Abbas said, “Since you, Mr. President and you, the members of the American administration, believe in this [Palestinian statehood], it is your duty to call for the steps in order to reach the solution and impose the solution – impose it…But don’t tell me it’s a vital national strategic American interest … and then not do anything.” Israeli leaders are reportedly concerned over rumors that Obama’s next gambit in Mideast peacemaking will be to present his own proposal – closely mirroring the one put forth by former President Bill Clinton. Although administration members continue to recite the mantra that peace can only be made by the parties and not imposed, many believe Obama is prepared to impose his version of a solution. Bowing to American pressure, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu told Obama envoy George Mitchell that he’s willing to discuss the core issues of Jerusalem, borders and security arrangements as part of the indirect talks with the Palestinians..