Israel and Syria OK Turkey as Mediator

Israeli Foreign Ministry Spokesman Jonathan Peled issued a statement to the Agency France Press (AFP) yesterday: "We accept the Turkish offer. We think that Ankara can play a decisive role." Peled stressed, however, that Israel expected action, not just words from Syria. "There is much to do before announcing the start of the negotiations," he said.

Syrian Information Minister Ahmet Hasan also commented on the matter: "Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan offered to do something for the peace process. I wish him success. Perhaps, Erdogan can persuade the Israeli government to implement UN resolutions and not violate state sovereignty."