Islam Times - US says Abbas UN speech undermines peace efforts

Islam Times - The US State Department reacted negatively on Friday night to Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas' speech at the United Nation, calling it provocative and saying it would undermine peace efforts.

"President Abbas' speech today included offensive characterizations that were deeply disappointing and which we reject," said spokeswoman Jen Psaki.

"Such provocative statements are counterproductive and undermine efforts to create a positive atmosphere and restore trust between the parties," she said.

The remarks came after president Abbas characterized Israel's actions during the 50-day war that left more than 2,000 Palestinians dead as "genocidal," and warned that Israel's policies would lead to a situation of apartheid.

Abbas said a resolution backed by Arab countries would be presented to the UN Security Council to relaunch talks with a view to reaching a final settlement with Israel on the two-state solution.

It remained unlikely that such a resolution would garner support within the 15-member council, notably from the United States, which has repeatedly vetoed resolutions seen as undermining Israel.

The council has been trying for weeks to unite behind a draft resolution seeking to shore up a ceasefire accord in Gaza.