Delegations from Israel and the Palestinian Authority (PA) met on Sunday in the Egyptian resort of Sharm el-Sheikh to discuss measures against violence. Host nation Egypt, as well as Jordan and the United States, also participated in the summit. A previous meeting had taken place on February 26 in the Jordanian city of Aqaba.
The talks were prompted by the escalation of violence between Palestinians and Israelis. The upcoming Islamic holy month of Ramadan, which begins on Wednesday, could further increase tensions. As in Jordan, the participants of the summit in Sharm el-Sheikh adopted a joint declaration.
The first point of the communiqué reads: “The parties have reaffirmed their commitment to promoting security, stability and peace for Israelis and Palestinians alike. They have recognized the need for de-escalation on the ground and the prevention of further violence, as well as the pursuit of confidence-building measures, increasing mutual trust, creating a political horizon and addressing outstanding issues through direct dialogue.”
Renewed attack in Huwara
Like the meeting in Aqaba, the summit in Sharm el-Sheikh was overshadowed by violence. In February, two Israeli brothers were murdered by Palestinians in the Palestinian village of Huwara in the West Bank. This was followed by serious riots by settlers there. During the March summit, Palestinians in Huwara fired on an Israeli vehicle. One settler was seriously injured.
The statement emphasizes the Palestinian Authority's "legal right" to exercise security control in Area A, which comprises approximately 20 percent of the West Bank. In 1995, the Oslo II Agreement placed it under Palestinian control in both security and civilian matters. Nevertheless, the Israeli army repeatedly enters the area. Currently, troops are attempting to contain a wave of terrorist attacks.
Another meeting is planned for April in Sharm el-Sheikh. The parties are expected to report on progress regarding several points of the declaration. These include a mechanism to "curb and counter violence, incitement, and seditious statements and actions." Furthermore, a mechanism is to be established to improve the economic conditions of Palestinians and the financial situation of the Palestinian Authority. However, the details of this mechanism are not specified.
For four months: No discussions about housing construction
Israel pledged not to discuss new settlement construction plans for four months. Furthermore, the government is prohibited from legalizing any outposts for a period of six months.
Another point concerns the historical status quo at the holy sites in Jerusalem, which should be maintained. Israelis and Palestinians must actively "prevent any actions that would disturb the sanctity of these sites, including during the upcoming holy month of Ramadan, which this year coincides with Easter and Passover." The week-long Jewish Passover festival begins on the evening of April 5.
The Israeli delegation was led by the head of the National Security Council, Zachi Hanegbi, and the head of the domestic intelligence agency Shabak, Ronen Bar. The PA delegation was headed by the Minister of Civil Affairs, Hussein al-Sheikh, and the head of intelligence, Majed Faraj.
The foreign ministers of Egypt and Jordan, Sameh Shukry and Ayman Safadi, headed their respective delegations. Representing the United States were Brett McGurk, the National Security Council's Middle East Coordinator at the White House, and Barbara Leaf, Assistant Secretary of State for Middle East Affairs. (Israelnetz)
