Published on Sep 19, 2011 by Euronews - The diplomatic crisis precipitated by President Mahmoud Abbas over Palestinian statehood appears to have forced Israel on to the back foot.
His intention to call for full UN membership despite opposition by both Israel and the US has provoked an invitation for renewed direct talks from Israel's Prime Minister. The US has said it will veto the Palestinian move.
US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton is one of those holding last minute talks to persuade the Palestinians not to proceed.
