Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu used Biblical references to argue in favor of President Donald Trump's Middle East peace proposal, saying the historic areas that would be part of Israel under the deal have significance to Jews and Christians alike.

"In the president's plan, Israel will have sovereignty over Bethel, where Jacob dreamed of a ladder going to the heavens. Israel will have sovereignty over Shiloh, where the Ark of the Covenant that housed the Ten Commandments stood for centuries," Netanyahu said in a speech Sunday.

"These places, like so many others in Judea and Sumeria, are an integral part of the historic Jewish homeland. After all, we're called Jews because we're the people of Judea. But these areas are also an integral part of Christian identity. They're a part of your heritage. They're a part of our common civilization. And under Israeli sovereignty, our common heritage will be forever protected."

Netanyahu added that the deal would "advance peace" and that Palestinians should accept it.

"I encourage the Palestinians not to lose another opportunity," he said. "Not to waste another century trying to destroy Israel. They should embrace President Trump's vision."

Trump unveiled his peace plan in January and called it a "win-win" for both Israel and Palestine.

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