Middle East crisis takes shape as Pakistan heads to the UN

WASHINGTON (AP):

The United States and Europe yesterday continued their attempt to avert or delay a looming showdown over Palestinian statehood at the United Nations that may crush already dim Mideast peace prospects.

Senior US and European officials met yesterday afternoon in New York to find a way of bringing Israel and the Palestinians back to stalled negotiations without antagonising either side or embroiling the region in new turmoil.

But each state is locked in intractable positions over the expected Palestinian bid this week for UN recognition and chances for a breakthrough seem slim. As a result, officials say the effort may be more about damage control than diplomacy.

The Palestinians are frustrated by their inability to win from Israel concessions such as a freeze on settlements in the West Bank and east Jerusalem.

They want to seize the moment to try to gain greater standing and attention with a high-stakes wager on statehood and UN membership.

The US and Israel vehemently opposed this move.

Only 12 months ago, US President Barack Obama said he wanted the UN to be welcoming to Palestine as its newest member this year.

Unenviable position

But talks long have broken down, and the US is in the unenviable position of leading the opposition to something it actually supports.

The US has promised a veto of the Palestinian bid at the Security Council, leading to fears the action could spark violence in the region.

The American side was working to secure additional opposition to recognition, officials said. Without nine affirmative votes in the 15-member Council, the Palestinian resolution would fail and Washington is hoping it won't have to act alone.

US officials believe that six other members may vote against or abstain, meaning the Palestinians would fall short. That tally could not be immediately confirmed.

Heading off or watering down the Palestinian resolution had been the goal of international diplomats.

They hoped to parlay that success into a meeting between the Israeli and Palestinian leaders where the two sides would relaunch negotiations.

Yet, the Palestinians have refused to back down and give up the little leverage they hope to win.