Reports are emerging regarding the discussions that took place between President Obama and Mahmoud Abbas during their recent meeting at the White House, which if true, suggest the peace process is in serious trouble. Several core issues were discussed which need to be resolved to avoid an impasse or outright collapse. According to unnamed US and Israeli sources three specific issues were sticking points: Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has insisted Mahmoud Abbas recognize Israel as a Jewish state. According to sources Abbas once again rejected this demand. Previously released statements from PA representatives indicated recognizing Israel as a Jewish state might impact the status of the so-called “refugees.” This suggests if Israel is accepted as a “Jewish” state the return of the “refugees” becomes a problem because it would jeopardize its Jewish majority. Moreover, recognizing Israel as a Jewish state would be tantamount to surrendering...(Read Full Article)