The US president will not try to start a hopeless Israeli-Palestinian process, but after losing Congress last night and with it the chances to pass reforms he is expected to focus more on foreign relations; at the head of the list is something the Government in Jerusalem will not necessarily like – a nuclear deal with Tehran.

The attacks in Jerusalem, which receive Abbas' blessing, illustrate the need for Israel to separate the two populations in the capital, and give up the pretence of happy cohabitation between Jews and Arabs.

Op-ed: Had Israel clamped down MKs' provocations on Temple Mount or Jewish serial home buyers in Arab East Jerusalem, we might not be having to ask whether we are witnessing a third intifada.

Analysis: All the Palestinian factions, without exception, have created a combined front aimed at shaking off the Israeli control of Jerusalem. In order to stop PA's encouragement of violence, Israel can either resume peace talks or use more force.