US urges "calm" in Mideast, says still open to "discussing" peace deal

WASHINGTON, Dec 11 (KUNA) -- The White House urged calm in the wake of Middle East violence after President Donald Trump's decision last week to recognize Jerusalem as Israel's capital, and said it was open to encouraging the resumption of peace deal talks.
"Look, violence is always going to be the responsibility of those who carry it out, not the president or anyone else," White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders said during a briefing.
"And again, we urge individuals and groups to remain calm," she said. "And we want to continue working with our partners, allies and others in the region to continue moving forward on the peace conversations." (end) rm.sd