World Jewish Congress President Ronald S. Lauder has condemned the reconciliation deal announced Wednesday by Palestinian factions Fatah and Hamas, which could lead to a unity government between the Palestinian Authority in the West Bank, which is led by Mahmoud Abbas, and the Hamas government in Gaza.

Israel has made clear that it will not take a firm position on the crisis in Ukraine.

Foreign minister says there is no lack of problems in Middle East for Israel to contend with; Liberman: Israel will support all efforts to solve conflict in the fastest way possible, without confrontation

EU foreign policy chief slams Israeli moves as ''not conducive'' to climate needed for peace talks; condemns Monday's fatal shooting of Israeli man in West Bank; calls on sides to exert restraint from undermining diplomacy.

Unnamed officials reported as saying sides will not be able to overcome current stalemate in peace talks by April 29 deadline; sources note US envoy's leave for Passover, reported economic sanctions on PA as signs deadlock will remain.

Guardian state of conventions accepts Abbas's application to treaties, signed as part of Palestinian campaign for legitimacy in int'l arena.

US mediator Martin Indyk leaves the region for Passover break; Jerusalem counters US secretary’s account of reasons for crisis.

Indyk tells sides that if deal reached to extend talks, US will consider releasing Israeli agent.

‘’Europe is more secure, more innovative and more relevant on the world stage thanks to the tools Israel provides: from unmanned aerial vehicles to intelligence; from energy to pharmaceuticals; and from particle accelerators to high tech start-up,’’ a new report shows.

Chief PLO negotiator Erekat says Palestinians not seeking to undermine American efforts in Mideast diplomacy; State Department says sides still at negotiating table despite apparent lack of direction.