SENIOR Palestinian official Mohammed Ishtayeh objected yesterday to US President Donald Trump’s claim that the Palestinians have walked away from peace negotiations, saying US policies in favour of Israel have pushed Palestinians away from any future process.

Mr Ishtayeh, a top adviser to President Mahmoud Abbas, said a series of US steps have harmed the climate ahead of an expected peace proposal by the White House.

“Which negotiating table?” Ishtayeh asked. “Since he came to power, there have been no negotiations whatsoever.”