In round of interviews, PM says he can't see 'any logic' in sitting down with PA leader, citing pursuit of war crimes charges against Israel and payment of stipends to terrorists

Ayelet Shaked says premier doesn't intend to sit down with PA chief, citing the latter's pursuit of war crimes charges against Israel and payment of stipends to terrorists

Abbas had been seen as reluctant to aid capture of popular escapees, but report in Lebanese paper linked to Ramallah's rivals claims PA is feeling pressure to tamp down on unrest

PA resisting calls so far, saying it's one of few non-violent cards it has left against Israel, though US pressure has subsided recently as sides wait for Israel to pass budget

PA chief also speaks to Gantz, looks for strengthening of ties in coming year as new government in Jerusalem broadens its contacts with Ramallah

Men to be accused of aggravated assault in case that has rocked the West Bank; no senior officers or politicians have so far been charged in Banat's death

In call with US Conference of Presidents, PM says he'll take steps to 'reduce friction' with Palestinians, arguing that middle ground is worth pursuing even if conflict unsolvable

Defense minister says even in the absence of peace talks, Israel is working to counter extremists and strengthen moderates in the region

The three leaders convene in Cairo ahead of trips to US for the United Nations General Assembly later this month; leaders reaffirm commitment to two-state solution

PM distanced himself from defense minister's meeting with PA chief, but they seem to be OK with each taking a different approach to satisfy coalition's rightist and leftist bases