Palestinian official says Netanyahu blackmailing Europe
Xinhua, November 30, 2015 Adjust font size:
A Palestinian official on Monday accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of "blackmailing" Europe over the labeling of settlement goods.
Secretary General of the Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO) Saeb Erekat said that Netanyahu is violating international laws by halting political communications with the Europe Union regarding the peace process.
Erekat's comments came amid reports that Netanyahu has ordered the Israeli foreign ministry to suspend contacts with EU bodies and their representatives regarding the diplomatic process.
Erekat said the EU decision to label settlement produce has made it "a real and honest partner in the peace process" as it considers settlements violate international law and hamper peace efforts.
He noted that settlement rejection is not only a European position but also one advocated by the wider international community, including the United States.
On Nov. 11, the EU decided to label products made at Israeli settlements in the Palestinian territories in order to distinguish them from products made in Israel proper.
The question of settlements has been one of the sticking points between Israel and the Palestinians as the international community try to secure lasting peace in the region.
The EU is a party to the so-called Middle East Quartet, which also includes Russia, the United States, and the United Nations. Endit