Israel today “noted with regret” Egypt’s decision to suspend the autonomy negotiations. The Cabinet, in a statement, termed the move “one-sided” but mode no further comment.
The ministers rejected on idea put forward by justice Minister Shmuel Tamir, one of the negotiating team, that the Cabinet announce it would “hold a debate” before deciding to resume the talks. Tamir argued that Egypt had insulted Israel by calling off the talks so abruptly, after arrangements had been mode to hold them in Cairo this week.
But the Cabinet majority followed the lead of chief autonomy negotiator, Interior Minister Yosef Burg, who contended that it would be impolite to exacerbate the situation by public statements. Burg noted that Israel did not yet know the true reasons underlying the suspension.
Help ensure Jewish news remains accessible to all. Your donation to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency powers the trusted journalism that has connected Jewish communities worldwide for more than 100 years. With your help, JTA can continue to deliver vital news and insights. Donate today.
The Archive of the Jewish Telegraphic Agency includes articles published from 1923 to 2008. Archive stories reflect the journalistic standards and practices of the time they were published.
