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Netanyahu sets moratorium on West Bank growth
Israel imposed a 10-month moratorium Wednesday on approvals for new homes in Jewish settlements across the West Bank. But it appeared unlikely that the restriction, applauded by the Obama administration, would be enough to coax the Palestinians back to U.S.-brokered peace talks.
The Palestinian Authority leadership rejected his appeal, repeating its months-old condition that Israel first freeze all settlement growth on land claimed by the Palestinians in East Jerusalem as well as the West Bank.
"This is not a moratorium," said Saeb Erekat, the chief Palestinian negotiator, noting loopholes that will allow construction to continue on nearly 3,000 previously authorized settler homes. Netanyahu "had a choice between settlements and peace, and he chose settlements."