Palestinian negotiator Nabil Shaath said that the expected results of Mitchell's visit and the talks he will hold with both the Israelis and the Palestinians "won't be so fruitful," adding that he doesn't expect much from this visit "as long as the Israeli side hasn't changed its stances."

Palestinian observers believe that all indications show that the United States is pushing forward within the upcoming three months towards holding indirect peace negotiations between Israel and the Palestinians over permanent status issues. However, Israeli settlement would remain the major obstacle.

The Palestinians stressed that it is impossible to hold any talks with Israel amid continuation of settlement in the Palestinian territories, including east Jerusalem. Israel within this period had approved several projects of constructing more units in the area of Jerusalem.

Yasser Abed Rabbo, the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) official, told reporters in the aftermath of the PLO executive committee meeting chaired by Abbas that "any seriousness in the peace process needs a real freeze of settlement."

"Having also a clear international reference that include a recognition of the borders of the Palestinian state with east Jerusalem as its capital would make the peace process more serious and more real," said Abed Rabbo, who held Israel responsible for the consequences of the current situation.

Hilary Clinton had stated that Washington is still committed to the peace process despite the impasse. She encouraged the two sides to treat substantial issues through indirect peace negotiations led by the U.S. administration.
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