Vandalized Islamic Symbols Replaced

Arab and Muslim groups erected a new Islamic star and crescent near the White House to replace a display that was torn down and spray-painted with a swastika last weekend. The Islamic symbols, which represent peace and tolerance, were displayed for the first time together with the national Christmas tree and a Hanukkah menorah on the Ellipse behind the White House. President Clinton last week condemned the attack on the Islamic symbols. Their replacements have been enclosed by a chain-link fence to prevent further attacks. All three displays will be removed next weekend. A spokesman for the U.S. Park Police said an investigation of the defacement is still underway.