Notwithstanding the escalation of violence over the weekend, President Shimon Peres told reporters on Sunday that he remains a firm believer in the possibility of peace. Speaking to members of the Foreign Press Association in Sderot Peres said: 'I'm retiring from the post of president but I am not retiring for the battle for peace.' He also reiterated his belief that Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas is a true partner for peace and that he is opposed to terrorism.