Palestinians want rid of the US role in peace talks

The majority of Palestinians do not support the framework agreement proposed by the United States because it does not herald real freedom or respect the right to self-determination, a new poll has revealed.

Sponsored by the international advocacy organisation Avaaz and carried out by the Palestinian survey research centre RIWI in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip, the poll revealed that a significant majority of Palestinians will not support any concessions that would lead to the continuation of the Israeli occupation or prevent the sovereignty of the Palestinian state. A majority of respondents also said that they want to get rid of the US role in brokering the talks.

Only 11 per cent of the respondents said that they would support a framework for negotiations that allows 75-85 per cent of settlers to remain in the West Bank. Twelve per cent said they would support a framework that requires the Palestinian leadership to recognise Israel as a Jewish state.

Only 11 per cent of respondents would support an agreement that involves Palestinians making territorial concessions in the Jordan Valley or that approve a continued Israeli military presence. Fifteen per cent of respondents would support an agreement that deprives Palestinian refugees of the right of return or to receive compensation. While only 14 per cent would support an agreement that does not guarantee full Palestinian access to East Jerusalem.