Russia links Israeli threats to eliminate Palestinian leadership to election campaign

“We link the recent toughening of rhetoric by senior Israeli officials to the accelerating electoral campaign ahead of the parliamentary elections in Israel scheduled for October 27,” she said. “However, we believe that the fight for voters’ votes cannot serve as justification for provocative statements that further inflame the atmosphere of mutual hostility and intolerance between Palestinians and Israelis.”

Russia supports efforts to create conditions for the resumption of direct Palestinian-Israeli dialogue, she said, adding that Moscow considers a comprehensive settlement based on international law the only way to ensure lasting peace in the region.

“We consistently advocate for the promotion of constructive approaches aimed at creating the necessary conditions for the resumption of direct Palestinian-Israeli dialogue on all disputed issues,” she stressed.

Zakharova said a settlement should include the establishment of an independent, viable and territorially contiguous Palestinian state living peacefully and securely alongside Israel.

The comments came after several members of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government renewed demands for changes to Israel’s policy toward Palestinians ahead of the election.