The Syrians have renewed their preliminary work on the diversion of the Banyas water sources, one of the headwaters of the Jordan River, after two weeks of inactivity caused by the destruction of a number of tractors and other equipment in an exchange of fire with Israel, it was reported here today. The Syrians brought new equipment to the site, and resumed clearing operations.
The evening daily, Maariv, reported that the decision to resume work on the Syrian project was reached by the United Arab Command, after precautionary measures were taken, including the reinforcement of Iraqi forces deployed along the Jordanian border and the movement of forces within Syria and Lebanon.
The Lebanese authorities, meanwhile, released details this morning on the work going on within the country’s borders close to Israeli territory, stressing that it was not connected with any water diversion plan. It is assumed that the Lebanese Government’s statement was intended to allay the fears of Lebanese farmers in the area who fear reprisals by Israel. Israeli quarters, however, said today that the work does constitute part of a water diversion scheme, and that the Israeli warning against such projects still stands.
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