Syria accepts observer request

BEIRUT - The Associated Press

A pro-Syrian regime protester waves a national flag as he stands in front of huge portrait of Syrian President Bashar Assad during a protest against the Arabs and European sanctions, in Damascus, Syria AP Photo

Syria's Foreign Ministry spokesman says Damascus has accepted an Arab League request to send observers to the country in an effort to end its eight-month crisis.

Jihad Makdissi said on Monday that Foreign Minister Walid al-Moallem "responded positively" to the League demand and sent a letter to the organization's chief Nabil Elaraby on Sunday night.

Arab leaders had given Syria a new deadline of Sunday to respond to the League's plan, which calls for the admission of observers to ensure compliance with a government cease-fire. They also held out the threat of pushing for U.N. involvement if Damascus balks.

The 22-member Arab League did not immediately react to Syria's announcement.