There are already more than 90 countries that recognize an independent Palestine, but it is unclear how many will sign up for the official recognition of the Palestinian authority’s unilateral declaration for a seat at the United Nations. Last month was a tough one for the Obama administration. The president was strongly criticized by the left wing of his own …

The Palestinians are concerned that talks without deadlines simply allow Israel more time to build more settlements, which will further undermine any possible agreement. Despite an agreement to keep talking, expectations are low for the talks between Israelis and Palestinians that began in Washington last month. There is a small chance that an incremental process will eventually lead to a …