U.S. President Barack Obama answers a reporter's question during a joint news conference with South Korean President Park Geun-hye at the Blue House in Seoul, South Korea, Friday, April 25, 2014. Obama says Japan's use of South Korean "comfort women" during World War II was a terrible and egregious violation of human rights. Obama is addressing historical tensions between U.S. allies Japan and South Korea during a news conference in Seoul with South Korean President Park Geun-hye. (AP Photo/Charles Dharapak)
April 25, 2014 - 2:54 AM
SEOUL, South Korea - President Barack Obama says the halt in negotiations between Israel and the Palestinians underscore how neither side has shown the political will to make tough decisions that would sustain Mideast peace talks.
Obama says reconciliation agreement between the Palestinian Authority and the militant group Hamas is the latest example of, quote, "unhelpful" steps that have undermined discussions.
Obama says a pause in peace talks may be needed so both sides can consider the alternative to negotiating.
Obama spoke during a news conference with South Korea's President Park Geun-hye, a day after Israel broke off Mideast peace talks in protest the Palestinian Authority and Hamas agreement.
News from © The Associated Press, 2014