Israeli PM calls for settler ‘restraint’

WITH a midnight deadline looming, Israel’s prime minister yesterday called on West Bank settlers to “show restraint” following the end of a government-ordered construction slowdown.

The deadlock over Jewish settlements appeared to be going down to the last minute, though there were small signs from the Israeli and Palestinian sides that a deal would be reached.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said he will not extend the slowdown on construction he imposed exactly 10 months ago.