Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu telephoned Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas on Sunday in an effort to “start negotiations”.

According to a statement released by the Prime Minister’s Office, Mr Netanyahu told Mr Abbas: "I phoned to convey my best wishes on the month of Ramadan, but I hope that we will have the opportunity to talk with each other not only during the holidays. I hope that we start negotiations. It’s important. I hope that US Secretary of State John Kerry's efforts will see results."

The two leaders have had little direct contact since Mr Abbas met the Prime Minister in Jerusalem in 2010.

Israeli Justice Minister Tzipi Livni also called Mr Abbas last Thursday to express her best wishes for Ramadan.