Arafat delays Syria visit after US attacks

Palestinian President Mr Yasser Arafat has delayed a planned trip to Syria after following the attacks on the United States, …

Palestinian President Mr Yasser Arafat has delayed a planned trip to Syria after following the attacks on the United States, an aide said.

"We have asked for a delay of the president's visit to Syria because of the current circumstances", Mr Nabil Abu Rdainah, senior adviser to Mr Arafat, told reporters in Gaza.

He said he expected a delay of a few days.

Mr Arafat had been due to arrive in Damascus today for a two-day visit, prompting suggestions there might be a breakthrough in tense relations between the Palestinian Authority and Syria.

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Mr Arafat condemned the attacks in the United States and militant Palestinian groups denied any involvement.

"We completely condemn this serious operation...We were completely shocked, Mr Arafat said yesterday.

"It's an unbelievable disaster. It is touching our hearts. It is very difficult to explain my feelings. God help them, God help them".

Mr Arafat also said he would be ready to help track down those responsible if the Americans sought his assistance.