Quarterly Updates for (16 May 2012 — 15 Aug 2012)

On the Israeli-Palestinian front: Russian pres. Vladimir Putin made a 1-day visit to Israel on 6/25 for the unveiling of a monument dedicated to Russian soldiers. He also met with Israeli PM Netanyahu, DM Barak, and other senior officials, who urged Russia to pressure (1) Iran to halt its nuclear program, (2) Syria to halt violence against the opposition, and (3) the Palestinians to resume negotiations. Putin was noncommittal. On 6/26, Putin met with PA pres. Abbas in Ramallah and toured holy sites in Bethlehem. Putin called the Palestinian conditions on resuming negotiations with Israel “responsible” and reiterated that Russia would recognize a Palestinian state.

Also of note: A new charity funded by 3 Russian Jewish billionaires and comanaged with the Israeli government announced (6/26) plans to offer a $1-m. “Genesis Prize” for excellence in any field. The prize is intended to “honor those who attribute their success to Jewish values” and to “recognize the role of Jewish identity in encouraging universal achievements.”