Arab League backs indirect Israel-PA talks

       In a decision that could potentially break the deadlock in Israeli-Palestinian peace talks, Arab foreign ministers have given their backing to indirect negotiations between the sides for a four-month period. The decision was made within the framework of a meeting in Cairo by the Arab League follow-up committee. Chief Palestinian Authority negotiator Saeb Erekat said the foreign ministers would meet after four months for a review. PA President Mahmoud Abbas is now expected to seek backing from his Fatah movement for the US-proposed so-called proximity talks. A Kol Yisrael reporter says that if consent is secured, the Palestinians will convey their decision to the US administration during the upcoming visiting of US Vice President Joe Biden to the region next week. (23,36)