Charlie Rose Talks to George Mitchell

Where do you stand on recognition from the United Nations of a Palestinian state?
Understand, the UN does not have the authority to recognize states. States are recognized by other states. But a UN resolution—especially if passed by an overwhelming margin—would have profound effects. And those states that voted for it would then move toward recognition on their own. That would, I think, be a harmful development—very harmful for Israel, for the U.S., and for the peace process. The way for the parties to get an agreement, the way for the Palestinians to get a state, the way for Israelis to feel secure, is through a negotiated agreement with active American assistance.

What gets everyone back to the table?
Well, both sides have to accept the President's statement as the basis for negotiations. That will be very difficult for both.