Vanderbilt Television News Archive

(Versailles, France) Econ. summit noted overshadowed by Israeli invasion of Lebanon; details given.
REPORTER: Sam Donaldson

(Beirut, Lebanon) Lebanese perspective of invasion examined; PLO's claim regarding number Israeli planes downed mentioned. Films shown. 3-pronged attack on Tyre, Nabatiye and Chebaa detailed; Sidon celebration of death of Israeli pilot noted, shown.
REPORTER: Chris Harper

(Israel) Israeli account of invasion discussed; films shown. Shooting of Israeli ambassador (Shlomo Argov) in London and PLO (Palestine Liberation Organization) shelling of north Israel said deciding factors. [Courtesy "This Week with David Brinkley", Israeli ambassador Moshe ARENS - thinks invasion will solve problem; elaborates.] Israeli acknowledgement of some losses mentioned; Prime Minister Menahem Begin reported receiving support of opposition leader Shimon Peres. President Reagan's letter to Begin and Begin's reply outlined.
REPORTER: Bill Seamans

(Studio) Difficulty in winding up economy summit while trying to contain war in Mideast noted.
REPORTER: Sam Donaldson

(Versailles, France) Implications of warning about Mideast controversy as expressed by United States and allies considered; films shown. President Reagan noted mtg. with special envoy Philip Habib; details given. [Secretary of State Alexander HAIG - cites United States concern over fighting.] Possibility of Syrians challenging Israeli move into Lebanon noted. [HAIG - hopes fighting won't expand.] United Nations Secretary General Javier Perez de Cuellar noted asking summit leaders to call for cease-fire; response of President Francois Mitterrand reported. Withdrawal of some United States embassy personnel and dependents in Lebanon mentioned.
REPORTER: Barrie Dunsmore