American Jewish Committee Disappointed by Palestinian Response to Israeli Offer on Two-State Solution

American Jewish Committee issued this statement following an address today by Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas to the United Nations General Assembly:

"Just a day after Israeli Prime Minister Yair Lapid told the United Nations he supports a two-state solution, it was regrettable that Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas reacted to this courageous overture with hostile rhetoric that prevents a meaningful dialogue.

President Abbas could have used his own address before the UN to express his willingness to end decades of conflict with a negotiated solution that involves give and take on both sides. He did not. AJC calls on the Palestinian leadership to accept the sincere Israeli offer to engage in discussions. There is only one way to ensure two states for two people, and that is by coming to the table and negotiating an accord that guarantees the safety of the Israeli and Palestinian people and leads to a prosperous and peaceful future."