JERUSALEM (AP) — Israel’s national security adviser says the U.S. has made a written commitment not to pressure Israel to stop West Bank construction again if it accepts an incentives package aimed at reviving Mideast peace talks.
Uzi Arad spoke on Israel’s Channel 2 TV Saturday afternoon. It is the first time the Israelis have confirmed a written commitment was made.
Arad also said “payment agreements need to be worked out” regarding the sale of F-35 stealth fighters to Israel as part of the package.
It had been unclear before if Israel would be paying for the jets.
Under the deal, Israel would stop settlement construction for 90 days in the West Bank, but not in east Jerusalem.
Peace talks faltered in September over Israel’s continued settlement building.
