Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova linked threats by senior Israeli officials to physically eliminate the leadership of the Palestinian National Authority and annex Palestinian territory to the political campaign ahead of parliamentary elections planned in Israel for October 27.
Speaking on Thursday, Zakharova said Israeli officials’ rhetoric had hardened as the election race intensified. She said the struggle to win voter support could not serve as a justification for provocative statements that increase hostility and intolerance between Palestinians and Israelis.
Moscow calls for direct dialogue
Zakharova said Russia supports creating conditions for the resumption of direct Palestinian-Israeli dialogue. Under Moscow’s approach, a comprehensive solution based on international law is seen as the only way to achieve lasting peace in the region.
Russia advocates encouraging constructive approaches that would create the necessary groundwork for the resumption of direct talks covering all aspects of the dispute.
A solution based on a Palestinian state
The framework for a solution outlined by Zakharova envisions the establishment of an independent, viable and territorially contiguous Palestinian state living alongside Israel in peace and security.
The remarks came after some members of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government reiterated calls for changes to the country’s policy toward the Palestinians ahead of the election.