The Muslim Brotherhood affirmed that it was ready to establish a political party if the Egyptian government agreed to its formation, though it showed willingness to postpone that step in order to avoid provoking the government.

Four Palestinians Killed, Dozens Injured In West Bank And Gaza 
Despite renewed diplomatic attempts to end the carnage, Israeli shells and bullets on Saturday killed four Palestinians and injured dozens more, the latest victims in eight weeks of violence gripping the West Bank and Gaza Strip.

Iraq's Foreign Minister Defies U.N. And Flies To Syria As U.S. Acts Against Qatari Royal 

Iraqi Deputy Prime Minister Tareq Aziz arrived in Damascus by airplane Saturday, becoming the first Iraqi official to fly out of Baghdad since the U.N. sanctions were imposed 10 years ago, officials said.

Italy's Muslims In Uphill Battle For Recognition

Italy's Muslims count for less than one percent of the total population but their place in a society founded on Catholic traditions is being disputed in an often ferocious crusade by church and would-be government officials alike.