Syrian president: Syria preparing for war with Israel

First they exchange letters...

Israel, Syria exchange messages
( April 17, 2008-Gulf News)

Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert has told a newspaper that Israel and Syria have been exchanging messages to clarify expectations of any future peace treaty. The Yediot Ahronot daily quotes Olmert as saying: ''They know what we want from them, and I know full well what they want from us.'' The paper said Olmert didn't disclose the content of the messages or provide other details about the contacts. Peace talks over the Golan Heights, which is occupied by Israel, broke down in 2000.

And then they tell each other off...

Syrian president: War with Israel is a real possiblity (JP-Apr 17, 2008)

Syria sees war with Israel as a real possibility, and is preparing for such an event, said Syrian President Bashar Assad Wednesday to Lebanese newspaper Al-Akhbar. Nevertheless, Assad said that the likelihood of war with Israel breaking out is low given the current circumstances.
Speaking to a group of Arab intellectuals, the Syrian president added that whilst war is not a preferable option, "if Israel declares war on Lebanon and Syria or if America declares war on Iran," his country will be prepared.

Read also: "Assad says Syria preparing for possible war with Israel" (Haaretz)