The Jordanian government today accused Israel of derailing peace efforts in the Middle East by adding two West Bank sites to its list of national heritage sites, dpa reported. "Instead of taking steps to pave the necessary ground for re- launching the peace process, Israel is adopting measures that derail the ongoing peace moves," Minister of State for Media Affairs Nabil Sharif was quoted as saying by the official Petra news agency. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Sunday announced the inclusion of the Biblical Rachel's Tomb in Bethlehem and The Tomb of the Patriarchs in Hebron on the list. The Tomb of the Patriarchs, or Haram al-Ibrahimi, is regarded as as one of Islam's holiest shrines, while Rachel's Tomb is known to Muslims as Bilal Mosque. "Jordan condemns this and all other unilateral Israeli measures which affect holy places and offend sentiments of Muslims throughout the world," Sharif said. "We urge Israel to reconsider its new step because it deepens lack of confidence among the concerned parties." He was alluding to the latest attempts by the United States to broker indirect talks between Israel and the Palestinians.
