Obama fails to move Netanyahu on settlement construction
Two weeks after Israel's announcement of construction in East Jerusalem threatened the worst confrontation with the U.S. in 20 years, the two sides have agreed to disagree — in effect handing a political and diplomatic victory to right-wing Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Netanyahu, who was showered with expressions of support Tuesday in a visit to Capitol Hill , has successfully refused White House demands — relayed directly by Secretary of State Hillary Clinton — that Israel halt construction in the eastern sector of the holy city, also claimed by the Palestinians.
"We understand that . . . there are different perspectives among the parties. We agree with some, we don't agree with others," said Clinton spokesman P.J. Crowley .
His statement suggested that the Obama administration has failed to move Netanyahu off Israel's long-standing position on Jerusalem.
The Israelis are (GASP!) building apartments in Jerusalem! How dare they!
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