Netanyahu says Palestinian recalcitrance endangers peace talks

JERUSALEM, March 11 (UPI) -- Palestinian refusal to recognize Israel as a Jewish state and insistence on the right of return imperils the peace talks, Israel's prime minister said Tuesday.

"They said this week that they will never recognize a Jewish state or give up the right of return," Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu told members of his ruling Likud faction. "I won't bring a deal that doesn't cancel the right of return and doesn't involve the Palestinians recognizing a Jewish state. These are just fundamental conditions. The Palestinians aren't showing any sign of willingness to reach a practical and fair deal."

The Israeli daily newspaper Israel Hayom reported the stance taken by Palestinian negotiators means "we are farther away from an agreement."

"For the state of Israel, these are fundamental conditions that are legitimate and essential," Netanyahu said.

The Jerusalem Post said the prime minister expressed confidence in his coalition, which has been in place for a year.

"It's good for Israel to have a strong coalition and strong government," he said.