Berkley urges new pressure on Palestinians in Middle East talks

Rep. Shelley Berkley has yet to be convinced that President Obama has it right on Israel. Today, she renewed her call for the administration to stop pressing Israel on its plans to build new housing in Jerusalem, and instead find a way to get Palestinians to attend stalled peace talks.

The Las Vegas Democrat commented following remarks this week by Obama in Indonesia, where he said the planned construction of new apartments in a disputed part of Jerusalem "is never helpful when it comes to peace negotiations."

The president's comments brought a sharp response from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who said the housing plans should have no impact on peace negotiations. Palestinian officials, meanwhile, threatened to go to the United Nations and yet another promise of peace talks for the Middle East teetered.

“I am once again troubled by the administration's stubborn focus on Israeli construction in their capital, an issue that is by no means the real obstacle to peace," Berkley said in a statement. "Jerusalem is not a settlement; it is the capital of Israel."

"The focus instead must be on bringing the parties together -- without preconditions -- so they can find a mutually agreeable solution. Prime Minister Netanyahu has made it clear that he is ready to negotiate, and is just waiting for a Palestinian partner to meet him half way," Berkley said.

Berkley called on the Arab League and the diplomatic quartet of the United States, the United Nations, Russia and the European Union " to bring the Palestinians back to the negotiating table, rather than allowing them to find another excuse to avoid meeting with the Israelis.”

Berkley made her comment from Israel, where she and her husband are on self-funded travel this week. Nonetheless, the Las Vegas Democrat -- one of the most vocal supporters of Israel in Congress -- had scheduled meetings with high ranking officials during her trip.

Following a meeting with Obama in May, Berkley said he was trying but was struggling to fully understand Israel.