Israeli leader calls for quick move to direct talks with Palestinians

Israeli PM wants direct talks with Palestinians

JERUSALEM — Israel’s prime minister says the newly launched indirect peace talks with the Palestinians must move to direct negotiations as soon as possible.

Benjamin Netanyahu told his Cabinet on Sunday that critical issues can’t be solved if the sides aren’t sitting in the same room.

The Palestinians gave formal approval on Saturday to begin indirect talks with Israel through U.S. mediation. White House envoy George Mitchell will spend up to four months trying to bridge gaps in hopes of bringing them together for direct negotiations.

Mitchell was meeting with Palestinian leaders on Sunday before returning to Washington.