Social/Economic/Political
Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli military authorities state they will reject the recommendation of the military review board to drop deportation proceedings against Khalil Abu Ziad, will oppose his appeal in the civil courts [WP 8/13]. Hanna Siniora, al-Fajr Arabic daily newspaper editor, leaves for 'Amman, raising speculation he will meet there 8/20 with U.S. Asst. Sec. of State Richard Murphy [JP 8/13]. Military authorities lift the three-day curfew imposed on Hebron following 8/10 stabbing of a settler [JP 8/13]. Moshe Rivlin, chairman of the Jewish National Fund, states the Galilee is top priority [JTA 8/13].
Other Countries: Rep. George O'Brien (R-Ill.) and U.S. Ambassador William Eagleton meet Syrian President Hafiz Asad for 40 minutes reportedly to discuss 7 Americans being held hostage in Lebanon; Asad denies knowing who is holding the 7 or where they are being held, "condemns" the kidnappings, and says he will work for their release [CT 8/13, 8/17].
Military Action
Arab World: Fighting continues along Beirut's green line, killing at least 16 and wounding 75. Muslim leaders demand resignation of Amin Jumayyil [NYT 8/13].