Palestinian Analysts: Mitchell's Resignation Signifies Failure of Peace Talks

TEHRAN, May 15 (FNA)- Palestinian politicians and analysts believe that resignation of Washington's Special Envoy for Mideast Peace George Mitchell marks the failure of the so-called peace talks between Israel and the Palestinian Authority (PA).

Tallal Aukal, Palestinian writer and analyst, told FNA that Mitchell's resignation was an implicit declaration of the US failure in supervising the so-called peace talks

Mitchell resigned because he felt that he would never succeed in promoting peace between Israel and the Palestinians, Aukal said.

Ahmad Yousuf, a former advisor to Palestinian Prime Minister Ismail Haniya also said that after two years of activity and periodic trips to the region, Mitchell could not gain any success, therefore he was obliged to resign, and this means that the US has failed.

Also, Ayad al-Barqouti, a Palestinian political analyst, blamed Mitchell's failure on Israel's obsession with settlement construction in the Palestinian territories and its obstinate policies in this regard.

Meantime, US sources said Mitchell saw little point in continuing in the job since there had been little movement in the peace effort since last fall.

Mitchell's resignation takes effect May 20. US President Barack Obama officially announced his departure Friday afternoon.

The president offered no indication as to why Mitchell was leaving now.

"He took on the toughest job imaginable and worked grueling hours to advance the interests of the United States and the cause of peace," Obama said.

David Hale, Mitchell's deputy, will serve as the acting envoy.