By doing more to help Syrian refugees along the border, Israel has the opportunity to do the right thing while advancing its long-term interests.

Efforts must be made to identify the dynamics that at least partially account for the apparent growing chasm with Israel.

Haifa, Tel Aviv, Eilat and even Masada are also bidding to host the 2019 competition, and they’re being careful not to offend political sensibilities. But which has the best shot?

"There is absolutely unequivocal evidence that they are trying to deceive the US," NBC quoted one official as saying.

Only suspect ballots flagged in formal complaints or official reports on fraud will be recounted, a spokesman for the panel of judges conducting the recount said on Saturday.

Up to 160,000 Syrians have fled areas of fighting near Dara’a. Some of them have sought shelter near the border with Israel.

"The overthrow of this regime requires... requires an organization and a strong political alternative, and requires a liberty army."

Military says Israel will not open borders to fleeing Syrians but humanitarian aid will continue.