Will Israel and Syria go to war?

Bashar Assad, the Syrian president [EPA]

Amid increasing speculation about the possibility of war between Israel and Syria, Ehud Olmert, the Israeli prime minister, has publicly stated that he has no interest in confrontation.

His declaration comes with peace talks between the two countries – which have no diplomatic relations – at a stalemate.

Is there any evidence to suggest a conflict is looming?

If not, who is fuelling the rumours, and why?

Inside Story investigates.

Watch this episode of Inside Story here:

Part 1:

Part 2:

Watch Inside Story at 17:30GMT on Al Jazeera English

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