Netanyahu: My predecessors gave everything and got nothing from Palestinians

Netanyahu answers a question about his “negotiating posture” by laying out each side’s hand.

“95% of what we have to cede [to the Palestinians] is territory. The questions of security and recognition is what we need from the other side.

“Jerusalem, the Temple Mount,” he says, “is not reconcilable. I simply don’t see a solution.

“But on these issues [of land, security and recognition], Israel is asked to give 100% of its negotiating position [by drawing a border before peace talks commence] without getting anything in return. I don’t negotiate that way.”

With good reason, he adds.

“It’s a point of fact that my predecessors who negotiated differently fell off a cliff. Because they didn’t get anything. They didn’t breach Palestinian rejectionism.

“I nevertheless say that I’m willing to meet Abu Mazen. My late father used to say that “conversation fertilizes thought.” So you actually can generate new ideas if you actually sit down and talk.

“I can’t get this guy to sit down and talk. My throat has become hoarse from inviting him to meet again and again and again.”