Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, facing U.S. pressure to agree to such talks, has said he first wants progress in U.S.-mediated, indirect negotiations that began two months ago with the Arab League's blessing.

Abbas briefed the Arab League's peace process committee in Cairo on July 29 about the indirect talks, which will end in September according to a timeframe set by the League.

His plan received support form the League, with Qatari Foreign Minister Sheikh Hamad bin Jassim al-Thaini saying the League would agree to direct talks.

Responding to Arab League statement Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu office said the PM was “ready to begin direct and honest talks with the Palestinian Authority already in the coming days".

"The prime minister added that in direct negotiations it is possible to reach a peace agreement soon," it added.

President Barack Obama said earlier this month he hopes direct talks will begin by September.