In an intensifying diplomatic effort, Secretary of State John Kerry is making a major push to secure what Obama administration officials are calling a “framework” accord that would be a critical first step to a comprehensive Mideast peace agreement. But critics are already branding it as an effort to play for time. The framework document is aimed at achieving enough of a convergence on core issues that the two sides can make headway toward a formal peace agreement leading to an independent Palestinian state.  Read Full Article