U.S., Israeli strategic differences show

NEW YORK, May 23 (UPI) -- Significant regional strategic divisions between the United States and Israel are coming to light, the Wall Street Journal says.

The report cites such events as a political deal in Lebanon and Israeli peace talks with Syria.

Israel's engagement of Syrian President Bashar Assad appears to be the most profound strategic division between Washington and Jerusalem, the report says, as Israeli officials voice a determination to peel Syria away from Iran.

However, U.S. officials say the move undermines their efforts to punish Syria, along with Iran, for backing a continued flow of foreign fighters and munitions into Iraq -- a charge Damascus denies.

U.S. diplomats believe Assad has actively sought to topple Lebanese Prime Minister Fuad Siniora through his support of Hezbollah and other Syrian allies inside Lebanon, the report said.

Siniora's government agreed to a power-sharing deal that many analysts believe significantly strengthens the power of Hezbollah and other Syrian and Iranian allies inside Lebanon.