Despite what many experts see as a long-shot bid, Trump told Abbas: "I will do whatever is necessary. I would love to be a mediator or an arbitrator or a facilitator, and we will get this done." Abbas’ White House talks followed a February visit by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who moved to reset ties after a combative relationship with the Republican president's predecessor, Democrat Barack Obama. Abbas Under Pressure at HomeTrump and Abbas appeared friendly but businesslike as they stood at side-by-side lecterns. But that was a far cry from the way Trump and Netanyahu interacted in February.

Source: Egypt Independent May 04, 2017 08:48 UTC