Secretary Kerry’s meeting in Jerusalem reveals more tension between Israel and Palestine

U.S. Secretary John Kerry traveled to Jerusalem to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and to discuss the Israeli-Palestinian conflict from both sides of the argument. “Israel deserves security, deserves to leave in peace,” Kerry said. “The Palestinians deserve a state, deserve to live in peace, and that is what we are working towards.” Netanyahu did not deny that peace was the ultimate goal, but he expressed concern about their developments.” I see the Palestinians continuing with incitements, continuing to create artificial crises, continuing to avoid and run away from the historic decisions that are needed to make a genuine peace,” said Netanyahu.

Secretary Kerry also announced during his trip that the U.S. would supply another $75 million in aid to the Palestinian Authority’s High Impact Micro-Infrastructure Initiative. “HIMII projects will create jobs and fund infrastructure projects throughout the West Bank including the construction and repair of health clinics, roads, water systems, community centers, and schools,” the U.S. State Department said.

On Wednesday, another conflict came forward, as Israeli Foreign Minister Avigdor Liberman was acquitted of charges including breach of trust and fraud. Liberman resigned back in December, but Netanyahu has been saving the position for him ever since. “I congratulate you on your unanimous acquittal and am pleased that you are returning to the government,” Netanyahu told Liberman on Wednesday.