A top French official reported tat Israel has informed his country that it wants Syrian President Bashar Assad to stay in power, London-based Arabic newspaper al-Hayat reported.
According to the official, Israel explained that it was worried about who might replace Assad if his regime is toppled. Israel has also expressed concern regarding the fact the Hizbullah was growing in strength, and criticized the Lebanese government for failing to act on the matter. (Roee Nahmias)