The US vice-president renews criticism of Israel over an East Jerusalem building project and urges bold steps to peace.

AFP – US Vice President Joe Biden met Palestinian leaders on Wednesday, telling them Israel’s decision to expand settlement activity in east Jerusalem is undermining the peace efforts he is promoting.

AP – Vice President Joe Biden said Wednesday the Palestinians deserve a “viable” independent state with contiguous territory, seeking to reassure them of U.S. support after Israel announced plans to expand a Jewish neighborhood in disputed east Jerusalem.

Reuters – Vice President Joe Biden publicly condemned on Wednesday Israel’s new plan to build 1,600 homes for Jewish settlers, saying on a West Bank visit the project undermined Washington’s peace efforts.

Iranian President says it is the US, not Tehran, that is playing a “double game” in Afghanistan.