Vice President Joseph R. Biden Jr. answers a question from a student at Israel's Tel Aviv University on Thursday, March 11, 2010. (AP Photo/Bernat Armangue)TEL AVIV -- Vice President Joseph R. Biden Jr. on Thursday implored Israelis and Palestinians to move beyond a diplomatic spat that has marred his trip to the region, urging the sides to waste no time in resolving their decades-old conflict despite daunting obstacles.
Mr. Biden used conciliatory language as he wrapped up a three-day visit to the area in an apparent attempt to get past the uproar sparked by an Israeli plan for new settlement construction in disputed east Jerusalem. The Israeli announcement -- seen as a slap in the face to Mr. Biden -- drew a sharp condemnation from the vice president as well as a Palestinian threat to withdraw from U.S.-mediated peace talks before they even begin.
The 22-nation Arab League, which gave Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas the backing to resume talks with Israel, has recommended withdrawing support for indirect talks in the wake of the Israeli settlement plan.
Mr. Biden's speech appeared aimed at not letting the row with Israel derail the Obama administration's latest drive for Mideast peace. However, the vice president's effusive praise for the Jewish state -- saying the United States has "no better friend" than Israel -- could disappoint those who had hoped he would talk tougher in the wake of the new settlement plan.
He also opened his speech saying the U.S.-Israeli relationship is "impervious to any shifts in either country or either country's partisan politics."
Speaking at Tel Aviv University, Mr. Biden said the sides must get down to the business of making peace.
"To end this historic conflict, both sides must be historically bold," Mr. Biden said. "If each waits stubbornly . . . this will go on for an eternity."
The vice president's trip was meant to repair strained ties between Israel and the Obama administration. However, the Israeli plan to build new homes in east Jerusalem -- the section of the city claimed by the Palestinians for a future state -- quickly overshadowed the visit. Traditionally strong U.S. relations with Israel have been strained recently precisely because of Israeli settlements.
Mr. Biden reiterated his condemnation of the building plan, urging both sides to avoid acts that could undermine the negotiations.
"I, at the request of President Obama, condemned it immediately and unequivocally," he said.
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