April 17, 2000

Syrian pres. Asad's son and heir apparent, Bashar al-Asad, says that pessimism following the 3/26 Geneva mtg. is unrealistic. that a Syrian-Israeli peace agmt. is still possible. (MM 4/17; NYT 4/18)

Israel's Amb. to the UN Yehuda Lancry delivers a letter fr. FM Levy to Secy.-Gen. Annan formally reaffirming Israel's intention to withdraw fr. s. Lebanon. (MM, NYT, WT 4/18; CSM 4/19; XIN 4/20 in WNC 4/21) (see Doc. C2)

The Israeli High Court dismisses the appeal submitted by Arad's family, orders the release of 13 Lebanese detainees by 4/19. (MM 4/17; NYT 4/18) (see 4/16)

Palestinians in the occupied territories mark Prisoners Day. In Bethlehem, IDF troops fire rubber-coated bullets at demonstrators. (WT 4/18)