It stated that Saudi and other Arab officials had said that they would not support the bank because of economic problems, including low oil prices.

Most Arab officials have blamed Saddam Hussein for creating the opening that allowed American military power into the region.

In general, Arab officials seemed at a loss about what they could do other than plead for help from beyond the Middle East.

Chances for a summit meeting and a new Arab consensus are slim, Arab officials now say.

In private conversations most Arab officials do not disguise their hope that his tenure may come to an end.

Israeli and Arab officials noted that they were no match for the William Kennedy Smith trial in getting television coverage.

That assertion could not be independently confirmed by French officials or other Arab officials.

French and Arab officials said he left for Switzerland today.

France wants to draw a "red line" against any attempt to invade the Christian enclave, senior French and Arab officials say privately.

Algerians and other Arab officials say he will have to sway many Muslim youths to build an effective political following.