Israel and Egypt seem to have resolved their latest “misunderstanding” and will resume talks on Taba with a good chance that the few remaining issues will be speedily settled.
The talks broke down Tuesday in an explosion of temper by the chief Egyptian delegate, Hassan Issa, who stalked out of the meeting saying the Israelis “insulted” him.
But both governments played down the incident Wednesday, expressing hope that the talks will be resumed next week.
Israeli officials attributed Issa’s outburst to “personal and national differences.”
Issa was angered because the Israelis had decided to adjourn Tuesday’s afternoon session but failed to inform his delegation.
Up to that point, the two teams had succeeded in formulating a draft document on access procedures for Israeli tourists after Taba reverts to Egyptian sovereignty.
Parallel talks were resumed in Cairo Wednesday on the matter of Egypt’s purchase of the Avia Sonesta Hotel and Rafi Nelson Vacation Village from their Israeli owners.
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