Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu tells former senator George Mitchell Palestinian made his peace efforts difficult

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed on Saturday his disappointment with the decision of former senator George Mitchell to quit from his role as US Special Envoy for Middle East Peace.

According to Israeli daily Haaretz, Netanyahu spoke to Mitchell and thanked him for his peace-seeking efforts.

Blaming Palestinians for the failure of Mitchell’s efforts, Netanyahu said that the Palestinians "set countless preconditions that made Mitchell's work difficult, and at the end of the process even united with Hamas."

Mitchell submitted his resignation letter on Friday, but reiterated he strongly supports US President Barak Obama's vision for peace. "I strongly support your vision of comprehensive peace in the Middle East and thank you for giving me the opportunity to be part of your administration," said Mitchell in his resignation letter. "It has been an honor for me to again serve our country."

His resignation will be effective May 20 - the same day Netanyahu visits the White House.