Israel's government has approved the release of 26 long-term Palestinian prisoners in advance of the resumption of peace talks.  But another move has Palestinian official wondering if the Israelis are trying to sabotage the talks.

The Palestinians are upset because the Israeli government approved the construction of nearly 1,200 new homes in Jewish settlements in occupied Palestinian areas.  Construction Minister Uri Ariel said they would be built in the West Bank and East Jerusalem to meet the needs of Israeli citizens.   Settlements are considered illegal under international law, although Israel disputes this.

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas had previously insisted he would not resume talks without an Israeli settlement freeze, but relented during mediation by US Secretary of State John Kerry.

Meanwhile, the 26 prisoners won’t be freed until Tuesday, to give the families of their alleged victims time to file last-minute legal challenges.