Israel asks U.S. to pass message to Syria, saying Israeli is ready to resume negotiations without preconditions, is not planning an attack. Syria sends Israel assurances it is not planning a strike either. (IDF Radio 8/21 in WNC 8/23; ITV 8/24 in WNC 8/24; MM, WT 8/22; WT 8/23) (see 8/20)
Japanese FM Yukihiko Ikeda arrives in Cairo on 1st leg of regional tour to discuss renewal of peace process, Japan's contribution to negotiations. (HA 8/22 in IL 8/22)
Jordan lifts curfew on Karak. (RJ 8/21 in WNC 8/23; JT, RJ 8/22 in WNC 8/27) (see 8/20)
SLA announces that several days ago it abducted 2 alleged Hizballah mbrs. during a raid beyond the self-declared security zone in the Biqa`. The pair is undergoing interrogation. (RL 8/21 in WNC 8/24)
Lebanese FM Faris Buwayz calls on the Interior Min. to investigate illegal practices at polling stations during the 8/18 vote. (RL 8/21 in WNC 8/24)