The official also said the White House is considering issuing a declaration in the coming weeks that will largely blame Israel for stalled talks to create a Palestinian state.
The statement, to be issued if talks don't quickly jumpstart, will declare Israel's Jewish communities in the West Bank and eastern sections of Jerusalem to be a main impediment to an Israeli-Palestinian deal.
Regarding unilateral recognition, the PA said the Obama administration favors a negotiated settlement but is ready to tacitly support steps toward the declaration of a Palestinian state outside of talks with Israel, including at the United Nations, if Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu does not quickly advance talks.
According to reports, Netanyahu has agreed in theory to a proposal by the Obama administration that Israel relinquish most of the West Bank and the entire strategic Jordan valley to the Palestinians. In the deal, Israel would lease parts of the Jordan Valley from the Palestinians for seven years, during which time talks would resume on Jerusalem and other issues.
According to the report, Netanyahu agreed to the idea but demanded that the lease be for a longer period of time than the original offer.
By Aaron Klein - read more at WND
