Israeli and Palestinian leaders will tackle their toughest disputes in direct talks beginning early next month in Washington, U.S. officials announced Friday.
Secretary of State Hillary Clinton issued the invitation to the two sides, asking Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Palestinian Authority President Abbas to launch the talks in Washington on Sept. 2.
Clinton conceded that there would be difficulties ahead. “Without a doubt, we will hit more obstacles,” but she added that negotiators should be able to reach a comprehensive peace agreement within one year.
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Even if they can sit down at the same table and have a civil conversation over the matter at hand, I’d consider it a major step forward.