Shimon Peres talks to reporters, 18 Sep 2007

Israeli President Shimon Peres says tensions between Israel and Syria are now "over," and Israel is ready to negotiate for peace with Syria.

Mr. Peres made the comment to foreign reporters Tuesday in Israel.

Monday, Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert also said Israel was ready to negotiate with Syria.

The developments come less than two weeks after Syria accused Israel of launching an air strike inside Syria. Israel has refused to comment on the matter.

Media reports have suggested the air strike either targeted Iranian arms destined for Lebanese Hezbollah guerrillas, or a nuclear facility in Syria built with North Korean technology.

Last week, Syria protested to the United Nations about the incident and accused Israel of aggression.

Peace talks between Syria and Israel collapsed in 2000.

Some information for this report was provided by AFP and AP.