Palestinians express reservations on Kerry’s ideas

RAMALLAH, West Bank — A Palestinian official says the Palestinians have reservations about some of U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry’s ideas for the outlines of a peace deal with Israel, particularly on the future of Jerusalem.

Kerry left Monday after meetings with Israeli and Palestinian leaders. He is to present a U.S. proposal for a peace framework and is expected back in the region next week.

The official said Monday that wide gaps remain, including about east Jerusalem.

The official says Kerry suggested that a framework refer to Palestinian “aspirations” to have a capital in Jerusalem. He spoke on condition of anonymity because of Kerry’s demand for discretion.

The Palestinians want a specific mention of east Jerusalem as their capital, fearing that otherwise they’ll end up with a small part of the city.