Top Palestinian peace negotiator Saeb Erekat dies after contracting Covid-19

A staunch advocate of a two-state solution, he was for several decades the Palestinians’ chief negotiator in peace talks with Israel. 

He helped negotiate the historic Oslo Accords in 1993, which led to the creation of the Palestinian Authority. 

Foreign secretary Dominic Raab praised the "champion of dialogue and Palestinian rights" and said his thoughts were "with his family and the Palestinian people at this difficult time."

In a statement, the UK Jewish group Yachad paid tribute to the  “Palestinian patriot who devoted his life to advance Palestinian independence, end the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and achieve peace through diplomacy.”

Former White House Middle East envoy Jason D. Greenblatt said that while he and Mr Erekat were "worlds apart" in their views on the conflict, "he tried hard to represent his people."

He offered his "deep condolences" to the family and wished them "much comfort /strength during this difficult time."

Mr Erekat is survived by his wife, four children and eight grandchildren, according to the AP.