Assad: Israel is weak, but can still wage war

Syrian President Bashar Assad said Thursday the current Israeli government was weak and is not prepared for a just peace with the Arabs, but cautioned that it could still wage war. "Israel is not ready on the official and popular level for a just and comprehensive peace, which requires strong leadership that can take decisive decisions, in addition to a mature public opinion that can push their governments in that direction," Assad said. "Both are not available now in Israel, particularly in the presence of a weak government who is unable of taking a strategic decision (for peace)," the Syrian leader said.