Netanyahu wishes Abbas happy Eid, speaks of peace

JERUSALEM: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke to Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas Friday for the first time in 13 months, wishing him a happy Eidul Fitr and speaking of Israel's desire for peace.

Netanyahu's office said the premier also told Abbas in a telephone conversation "that the citizens of Israel want peace" and that "Israel would continue to act toward regional stability.

The last time the two leaders spoke was in June 2014.

Netanyahu had asked Abbas for help in ensuring the safe return of three Israeli teens kidnapped by Palestinian militants, who murdered them.

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The kidnapping touched off a series of events that led to a devastating 50-day war later in the Gaza Strip between the Mediterranean enclave's rulers Hamas and Israel.

US-backed peace talks between the Palestinians and Israel collapsed in April 2014 after nine months of fruitless meetings amid bitter recriminations and mutual blame.

Since the war, relations with the Palestinian Authority headed by Abbas have deteriorated further, with Palestinian moves against the Israelis in the international arena.