Lankri's remarks came as Israel readies for possible diplomatic confrontations at the upcoming U.N. General Assembly, where the Palestinians hope to see a number of anti-Israel resolutions approved.

Levy has directed Israel's missions abroad to try to thwart these efforts. At the cabinet meeting last week, he protested that at the same time the Palestinians are negotiating with Israel, they are also trying to put pressure on Israel and turn international opinion against it.

Israel should try to get beyond stamping out diplomatic brush fires in the United Nations, Lankri said.

"We must focus our energies and creative efforts on advancing central issues and not get bogged down in marginal ones," Lankri said, adding that he believes Israel could be more involved in U.N. activities, especially in the area of humanitarian work.