BICOM

They also implied that Washington remains opposed to unilateral initiatives which are usually directed at Israel.

The AP reports that Obama has been frustrated with the lack of progress between Israel and the Palestinians for some time, and had considered either supporting a UN resolution outlining a peace deal, or delivering a major speech outlining his vision. Both would likely have been seen as strengthening the Palestinian position and undermining Israel’s leverage.

Citing anonymous US officials, the AP reports that “Obama is now highly unlikely to approve either of those options,” especially in the aftermath of Donald Trump’s election victory. It is thought that any measure taken by Obama perceived as critical of Israel, would likely be swiftly reversed by Trump.

Reuters similarly reports that Obama will not make any major moves on Israel-Palestinian peace, as he is “keen to preserve his legacy” and does not want to be seen to be “picking a fight” with Trump. However, an anonymous official is quoted saying that a “last word” from the Obama administration on peace efforts could come from Secretary of State John Kerry, who will address the Saban Forum on Sunday.

Yesterday, US Ambassador to Israel, Dan Shapiro, indicated that Washington will continue to use its veto at the UN Security Council to block initiatives considered damaging to Israel. In an interview with Army Radio he tackled the issue of France’s push for an international peace conference which has not received Israel’s support.

Shapiro was asked if the US would veto a proposal by France, as it had done in previous occasions. He answered: “We will always oppose unilateral proposals.”

Also this week, the US House of Representatives overwhelmingly approved bipartisan legislation which urges Obama to oppose or veto UN resolutions hostile towards Israel before he leaves office.