Reagan’s Diplomatic Initiative

President Reagan announces his initiative to foster an Arab-Israeli settlement, but adds that the U.S. is in favor of neither Israel’s annexation of occupied territories nor the establishment of a Palestinian state. Begin’s administration opposes this. King Hussein and President Mubarak meet for the tenth time since diplomatic relations are restored thirteen months previously. Israeli Prime Minister Peres later accepts the concept of an international conference with very limited powers. King Hussein calls for direct and prompt negotiations. (source)