In the UK and international press today, Reuters reports that Hezbollah could be seeking to start a conflict with Israel in order to avert attention from Syria. The news wire also notes that UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon said that President Assad’s credibility is running low due to his handling of the anti-government protests. The Financial Times carries an editorial piece on the latest developments in Syria and between President Assad and anti-government protests. The Guardian notes that Apple removed an application called Third Intifada from its Apps store following complaints from Israel. The Independent carries a piece on the raising of Palestinian homes in the Jordan Valley.

In the Israeli press, all papers note that the Defence Ministry began dismantling three kilometres of the security fence near the West Bank village of Bili’in. All papers also note that former Shas party leader Arye Deri announced his return to politics. Haaretz notes that EU Foreign Policy Chief Catherine Ashton said that the UN vote on a Palestinian state is not certain to happen and will depend on the wording of the resolution as to whether it receives European support. The Jerusalem Post notes that a nationwide drill took place yesterday. IDF Chief of Staff Benny Gantz said that he did not see Israel entering any conflict soon but emphasised the importance of being ready and prepared. Meanwhile, Haaretz notes that former IDF Chief of Staff Gabi Ashkenazi said yesterday that sanctions against Iran is the best strategy to halt its nuclear weapons programme.