The Palestinians are threatening to pull out of U.S.-mediated peace talks with Israel before the negotiations even start, according to AP. The two sides agreed this week to resume indirect talks through a U.S. mediator. But the Palestinians say Israel's plan to build 1,600 new homes in disputed east Jerusalem makes it difficult to return to the negotiating table. Israel announced the construction plan earlier this week, marring a visit by Vice President Joe Biden and drawing harsh criticism from Washington. Palestinian negotiator Saeb Erekat says the Palestinians have asked Washington to press Israel to scrap the settlement plan. He says the Palestinians are waiting for an answer before deciding whether to resume negotiations. Biden is to deliver a speech in Tel Aviv later Thursday.
