Palestinians want progress before direct talks

Palestinian president Mahmood Abbas on Tuesday called for progress before direct talks with the Israelis, after US President Barack Obama expressed hope for such talks.President Abbas stresses his commitment with respect to agreements (made) with US President Barack Obama and insists on the necessity of progress in indirect negotiations on core issues (borders, security) before going to direct negotiations,)President Obama expressed hope for direct talks and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu who said after talks with Obama in Washington that it was high time for such talks.Netanyahu says he is ready to meet Abbas at any time, but the Palestinians have yet to commit to direct talks, accusing Israel of undermining the atmosphere with continuing settlement activity on occupied Palestinian land.