Kerry: Closer to Peace Deal Between Israel and Palestine Than in Years

Invokes Mandela

Invoking the memory of Nelson Mandela, the South African statesman who died Thursday, Secretary of State John Kerry said Friday that "we are closer than we have been in years" to a peace agreement between Israel and the Palestinians.

"The example of Nelson Mandela is an example that we all need to take to heart," Mr. Kerry said as he departed after his eighth visit to the region since April in hopes of forging a two-state solution to the long-running conflict.