Syrian president addresses nation in third televised speech since violent crackdown on protesters began, says government must distinguish between people with legitimate needs and saboteurs.

Syrian president to speak about 'current developments in Syria' on Monday; speech follows weekend of further government operations against opponents and deserters in north-western Syria.

Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas urged European Union nations on Friday to separately or collectively recognize the state of Palestine, during a meeting with EU foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton.

Officials say Netanyahu will tell EU foreign policy chief in J'lem that UN Palestinian state declaration would harm peace efforts beyond repair.

Family requests that U.S. permit Jonathan Pollard to attend funeral of his father Morris.

Controversial television host Glenn Beck, who last year orchestrated a huge gathering of like-minded conservatives in Washington, is planning a follow-up ''Restoring Courage'' rally in Jerusalem in August.

New Israeli negotiator reportedly told Egyptian intelligence officials that if Hamas did not agree to latest deal for prisoner swap, there would be no deal at all.

In a meeting with EU foreign policy chief, Palestinian Authority president calls on European Union nations to recognize a Palestinian State.

Rep. Gary Ackerman (D-N.Y.) has made appeals to Egyptian officials on behalf of Ilan Grapel, the American-Israeli jailed in Egypt and the congressman's former intern.

Israeli Deputy Foreign Minister Danny Ayalon: ''During the last couple of weeks I have met many politicians and leaders from across four continents and I can say that the Palestinian momentum towards September has been halted.''