Israel ready to assist Russia in settling situation around Moscow hostage-taking

If necessary, Israel is ready to render all possible assistance in settling the crisis around the Moscow hostage-taking, Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon stated in a conversation with Russian Ambassador Gennady Tarasov.

Sharon also said that Israel "totally supports the war against terrorism the Russian authorities are waging." The Israeli Premier has offered his condolences and an overall support to the people of Russia and the Russian President in connection with the hostage-taking in Moscow.