Palestinians refuse to recognize Jewish state

“Recognize the Jewish state and make peace with us,” Netanyahu said as he addressed the UN General Assembly, brushing aside Palestinian claims that the core of the conflict was the settlement issue.

“The core of conflict is not the settlement issue. The settlements are the result of the conflict,” he said.

“The core of the conflict has always been and remains the refusal of the Palestinians to recognize the Jewish state and any borders.”

Netanyahu said that Israel was prepared to make “painful compromises.”

“The Palestinians should live in a future state of their own, but they should be ready for compromise,” the Israeli said, adding that the Palestinians had to ensure Israel’s security.