The Palestine Chronology

PA, Israel continue negotiations on Hebron. PA wants Israel to commit to completing further redeployment by next fall, as set out in the Oslo II agmt. U.S. special envoy Ross meets separately with Arafat, Netanyahu. (NYT, WP, WT 1/1; PR 1/3)

For 2d time in 1 wk., Jewish settlers break into Palestinian market area in Hebron, claim it as Jewish property. Israeli police arrest 15 settlers, eject them fr. the site. (WP, WT 1/1)

Bomb explodes on Damascus bus, killing 11, wounding 44. Citing Lubrani's statements 12/23, Syria accuses Israel of planting the device. U.S. calls charge "wild and irresponsible," demands proof of Israel's complicity. (RMC 1/2 in WNC 1/3; MBC, RJ, SATN 1/2, RMC 1/3 in WNC 1/6; MM, NYT, WT 1/3; ITV, RMC 1/4, al-Dustur 1/5, JT, QPAR, RJ, SATN 1/6 in WNC 1/7; al-Urdun 1/6 in WNC 1/16; MM 1/7; SANA 1/8 in WNC 1/9; MM, WJW 1/9; MEI 1/10; JP 1/11; NYT 1/28) (see 12/19)

The mandate for Operation Provide Comfort, set up by the U.S. and its allies after the Gulf War to protect the Kurds in n. Iraq, expires. Turkish parliament passes an extension of the mandate, though the title "Operation Provide Comfort" will no longer be used in order to stress that the project now is largely American, rather than international. France ceases participation, stating that the UN oil-for-food deal provides adequately for aid distribution in n. Iraq. (MEI 1/10)

U.S. special envoy Ross arrives in the Middle East. Ross gives Netanyahu a letter fr. Pres. Clinton, expressing respect Netanyahu's decision to move forward on an agmt. despite his hard-line views, inviting him to visit Washington soon. Israel's Shahak, PA's Abbas hold intense negotiations in Jerusalem. (NYT, WT 12/31; NYT, WP 1/1; MM 1/2)

Under pressure from FM Levy, Netanyahu agrees to submit any Hebron deal for cabinet approval. 7 of 18 cabinet mbrs. have said that they would veto an agmt. or abstain; 2 are uncertain of how they would vote. (WP 1/1; NYT 1/2)

In the largest protest against the PM since he was elected in 5/96, 100,000s of Israeli workers across the country, led by Histadrut labor federation, walk off their jobs to protest Netanyahu's plans to raise taxes, slash services, sell state companies. (YA 12/30 in WNC 12/31; WP, WT 12/31; MEI 1/10)

PM Netanyahu rejects PA request to share control of Rachel's Tomb in Hebron. DM Mordechai, Arafat meet in Gaza to discuss Hebron redeployment. (IDF Radio, ITV 12/29 in WNC 12/31; CSM, WP, WT 12/30)

In Cairo, Damascus Declaration states (Egypt, Syria, 6 Gulf states) close their 14th semiannual 2-day mtg.; call on the U.S. to put financial pressure on Israel to stop settling Jews in occupied Arab territory. (WT 12/30; RE 12/29, IRNA 12/30 in WNC 12/31)

PA says that a protocol on further redeployment, 2 U.S. letters of assurance will be attached to a Hebron agmt. Details still have to be worked out. (RMC 12/28 in WNC 12/31; JP 1/4)

Islamic University of Hebron reopens. (NYT, WT 12/29) (see 12/24)

At the 11th session of the Turkish-Iraqi Economic Comm., the 2 countries sign an agmt. to promote bilateral cooperation in industry, trade. (INA 12/28 in WNC 12/31) (see 12/24)

PA, Israeli negotiators continue talks, say they hope to finalize a Hebron deal by 1/1, complete redeployment by 1/5. Debates continue on security control of Tomb of the Patriarchs/al-Ibrahimi Mosque; al-Shuhada street; type of weapons to be used by PA police; the buffer zone btwn. H1, H2 areas; restrictions on Jewish construction. (IDF Radio, ITV 12/27 in WNC 12/30; WT 12/28, 12/29)

Two mos. after being suspended fr. the negotiations with the PA, Israeli Coordinator of Activities in the Occupied Territories Maj. Gen. Oren Shahor submits his resignation fr. the IDF. (IDF Radio, QY 12/27 in WNC 12/30; JP 1/4)

IDF Dep. Chief of Staff Matan Vilnai says that the "working estimate for 1997 is that we can find ourselves in a military confrontation with Syria," probability of war is no longer low. (WT 12/27; IDF Radio, QY 12/26 in WNC 12/30; JP 1/4)

U.S. special envoy Ross returns to Washington, will head back to the Middle East region next wk. PA, Israeli negotiations continue talks on Hebron. (NYT, WP, WT 12/26; IDF Radio 12/26 in WNC 12/30)

In anticipation of the resumption of final status talks, PM Netanyahu's inner cabinet begins debate on the government's plan for a permanent arrangement with the PA. (IDF Radio 12/25 in WNC 12/27)

In Hebron, IDF, Israeli police block, arrest 20 Jewish settlers attempting to seize 2 vacant houses in the Arab section of town. 5 Palestinians are arrested after 3 firebombs are thrown at an IDF position in the city center. (NYT, WP, WT 12/26; MEI 1/10)

At Erez crossing, Arafat, Netanyahu hold their longest face-to-face mtg. to date to try to final issues preventing a Hebron deal. (IDF Radio, RMC 12/24 in WNC 12/27; NYT, WP, WT 12/25; CSM 12/27; MA 12/27 in WNC 12/30; JP 1/4)

In Hurghada, Egypt, Pres. Mubarak discusses PA-Israeli talks with Israeli DM Mordechai. (RE 12/24 in WNC 12/27; WT 12/25; JP 1/4)

Israel permits Islamic University of Hebron, which was closed in 3/96, to reopen within 2 days; lifts curfew on Hebron; reopens to Palestinian traffic a road in Gaza that runs by Netzarim settlement. (NYT 12/25; CSM, WT 12/27; JP 1/4) (see 11/24)

Iraqi oil M arrives in Turkey for 4-day visit to discuss boosting bilateral trade in light of the oil-for-food deal. (INA 12/24 in WNC 12/27; INA 12/26, 12/27 in WNC 12/30) (see 12/9)

In s. Lebanon, roadside bomb explodes, killing 2 mbrs. of the IDF's Egoz unit, wounding 2. Hizballah claims responsibility. In separate incident in s. Lebanon, a Lebanese child is wounded by IDF shelling. (ITV, QY, RL 12/24, ITV 12/25 in WNC 12/27; WP 12/25; WJW 1/23) (see 12/14)

U.S special envoy Ross meets again with Netanyahu, Arafat; arranges for each of them to be briefed separately on the status of talks by a joint delegation of PA, Israeli negotiators (incl. Abbas, Molho). (MM 12/23; RMC 12/23 in WNC 12/24; IDF Radio, ITV 12/23 in WNC 12/26; CSM, WT 12/24)

In Amman, PM Kabariti, PA Agriculture M `Abd al-Jawwad Salih discuss expanding Jordanian exports to the self-rule areas, bilateral cooperation on agriculture. (RJ 12/23 in WNC 12/26)

Israeli Housing Min. says it will soon market land on the Golan for the expansion of Qatzrin settlement by 96 units. (MM 12/23)

Lebanese, Syrian officials say that 10s of Lebanese (perhaps as many as 200), many of whom are affiliated with the Christian opposition, have been detained for questioning regarding the 12/18 bus attack. Many already have been released. Coordinator for Israeli activities in Lebanon, Uri Lubrani, warns Syria that there will be retribution for the arrests. (MM 12/23; RL 12/26 in WNC 12/30; MM 1/3; al-Watan al-Arabi [Paris] 1/3 in WNC 1/14)

Jordanian government announces that a 10% cut in bread prices will be implemented in 1/97. (JT 12/24 in WNC 12/27) (see 8/16-18)

SLA expels a couple fr. their home in s. Lebanon to the n. after their son deserts the SLA. (RL 12/23 in WNC 12/26)

U.S. special envoy Ross holds intensive talks with Israeli, PA negotiators, offers some ideas (not specified) for bridging gaps. DM Mordechai says that Israeli will implement further redeployment immediately after a Hebron deal is reached, if Arafat promises to "wage an uncompromising war against terrorism." (IDF Radio, ITV 12/22 in WNC 12/24; MM, NYT, WP 12/23)

In Lod, Israeli military court sentences 2 Palestinians to 2 consecutive life terms each for driving suicide bombers to the scenes of the 2-3/96 bombings in Israel. (WP, WT 12/23)

After 2 firebombs are thrown at a Jewish settlement without causing injuries, IDF imposes a curfew on Hebron; rounds up 100 Palestinians; then forces Palestinian stores to closes, prompting riot. (CSM, WP, WT 12/23; WJW 12/26)

U.S. special envoy Ross arrives in Israel, meets with PM Netanyahu, heads to Gaza for talks with Arafat. (ITV 12/21 in WNC 12/24; NYT, WP, WT 12/22; NYT 12/23; JP 12/28)

In Hebron, a scuffle btwn. settlers, Palestinian children escalates into a melee btwn. 100s of settlers, Palestinians. IDF soldiers intervene; hit, kick, punch Palestinians, leaving 1 unconscious; arrests 2 Palestinians. (NYT, WP, WT 12/22; JP 12/28)

A group of Christian churches, nongovernmental organizations, individuals forming the coalition of Churches for Middle East Peace takes out an ad in the NYT calling for a shared Jerusalem, assuring the rights of all religions in the city. (NYT 12/21)

Ignoring U.S. appeals (see 12/20), Turkey, Iran sign 7 trade accords, granting each other most favored nation trading status, increasing the annual volume of trade btwn. the countries fr. $960 m. to $2 b., establishing a joint chamber of commerce, outlining maritime cooperation. Agmts. were drafted by the joint economic commission 12/16. (NYT, WP, WT 12/22; IRNA, VIRI 12/22, IRNA 12/23 in WNC 12/24; CSM, 12/24; WT 12/25)

In Cairo, Arafat briefs Pres. Mubarak on talks with Israel. (WT 12/22; WJW 12/26)

Israel stops entry of a 40-ft. pine tree donated to the PA by Finland for the Christmas celebrations in Bethlehem (see 12/10), saying the tree could be diseased, "could affect all the trees in Israel." (PR 2/20; CSM 12/23)

U.S. "strongly advises" Turkey not to improve its relations with Iran. (WP, WT 12/22) (see 12/19)

PM Netanyahu hold discussions with the FM, DM, national infrastructure M, defense officials regarding a document submitted several days ago by U.S. Amb. Indyk. The document constitutes a compromise document on Hebron, incorporating understandings reached so far btwn. the Israel, the PA; including clauses relating to continued implementation of Oslo, incl. Israeli commitment to a timetable for redeployment. Netanyahu says he has no intention of adhering to a timetable. (YA 12/19 in WNC 12/20)

Secy. of State Christopher says that special envoy Ross will soon return to the Middle East to "reenergize" the PA-Israeli talks; claims that the Israelis have made some concessions (unspecified) and it is time for the PA to reciprocate. PA denies Israel has made concessions. (NYT 12/20)

Israel expresses concern that the PA will expand the Gaza port beyond the agreed upon plans to create a commercial, rather than a fishing, port, in which case Israel would have no control over entering and departing craft. (MA 12/20 in WNC 12/23)

Arafat has private audience with the Pope at the Vatican. (WT 12/20)

Israeli FM Levy meets with King Hussein, PM Kabariti in Jordan. Levy, who is the 1st Israeli official to visit since the 9/24 tunnel opening, inaugurates the new Israeli embassy in the Rabiyya neighborhood of Amman. On arrival, He is met at the airport by a subcabinet-level official. (RJ 12/19 in WNC 12/20; JTV, RJ 12/19 in WNC 12/23; JP 12/28)

YESHA settlers' council ends 2-day convention; announces 3 "red lines" which, if crossed, will put an end to their support for Netanyahu. Action will be taken if Netanyahu does not go ahead with construction of housing units in East Jerusalem, Hebron; implements further redeployment fr. area C; does not allow "extensive and comprehensive" settlement. (IDF Radio 12/19 in WNC 12/23)

In Tripoli, Lebanon, an explosive device detonates nr. the regional Syrian intelligence headquarters, injuring 2 Syrian officers. Syria says that a civil-war era bomb detonator was accidentally burned with other trash, exploded. (MM 12/19; RL 12/19 in WNC 12/20; al-Sharq al-Awsat 12/19 in WNC 12/23; MA 12/22 in WNC 12/24) (see 12/18)

Iran's Pres. Ali Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani, his 240-mbr. delegation begin 3-day visit to Turkey. Iran and Turkey will discuss economic, defense cooperation. (MM 12/19; Milliyet [Istanbul], VIRI 12/19, IRNA, VIRI 12/20 in WNC 12/23; MM 12/20; IRNA 12/20, VIRI 12/21, 12/22 in WNC 12/24)

British PM John Major warns Israel no to inflame tensions by expanding settlements. (MM 12/19)

PA State Security Court convicts 3 PFLP mbrs. for killing 2 Jewish settlers 12/11. 2 are given life sentences; the 3d, the getaway driver, is given 15 yrs. PA says it will not extradite the 3 to Israel. (IDF Radio, YA 12/18 in WNC 12/19; MM, WP 12/19; JP 1/3)

Nr. Tabarja in n. Lebanon, unidentified gunmen open fire on a bus carrying Syrian workers, killing the driver, wounding 7 passengers. Lebanon, Syria claim Israel enlisted Lebanese Maronites to carry out the attack to create a rift btwn. Lebanon, Syria. (MM 12/19; RL 12/21 in WNC 12/24; al-Thawra [Damascus] 12/28 in WNC 1/3; MEI 1/10)

In s. Lebanon, IDF fires on Hizballah mbrs. entering the self-declared security zone fr. the north, killing 3. (CSM 12/19)

Israeli government rejects Pres. Clinton's 12/16 comments on settlements; says they are unhelpful, especially during an impasse in the PA-Israeli talks; vows to strengthen settlements. (MM 12/17; RE 12/17, IDF Radio, QY 12/18 in WNC 12/19; MM, WP, WT 12/18; WT 12/20)

UNGA appoints Ghana's Annan as Butros-Ghali's successor. He will become UN secy. gen. 1/1. In his last speech, Butros-Ghali criticizes the U.S., among others, for failing to pay its debts to the UN. (NYT, WT 12/18) (see 12/13)

Israeli, PA talks on Hebron resume for 1st time in 9 days. (ITV 12/16 in WNC 12/18; PR 12/20)

PA negotiator Erakat, Netanyahu adviser Molho meet briefly in Jerusalem to try to ease tensions that have built up since Israel's 12/13 decision to restore settler benefits. (CSM, WP, WT 12/17) (see 12/5)

Pres. Clinton criticizes Israel for planning to expand Jewish settlements in the West Bank, reinstating benefits to West Bank settlers. (MM, NYT, WP, WT 12/17; CSM, MM 12/18; WJW 12/19; IDF Radio, YA 12/19 in WNC 12/23; MEI 12/20; JP 12/28) (see 12/13)

IDF unseals Ramallah. (PR 12/20) (see 12/11)

In Washington, representatives of 29 nations (incl. Arab states, Brazil, Canada, the EU, Japan, the U.S.) pledge $3.2 b. toward the post-civil war reconstruction of Lebanon. The U.S. promises $20 m. over several yrs. (incl. $12 m. next yr. for education, environment). EU states pledge $1.5 b. (MM 12/16; RL 12/16 in WNC 12/17; MM, WP, WT 12/17; RL 12/17 in WNC 12/18; MM 12/18; al-Safir 12/18 in WNC 12/23; MEI 12/20; RL 12/23 in WNC 12/24; WJW 12/26; al-Safir 1/14 in WNC 1/17; CSM 1/15)

In Ankara, the 13th Iranian-Turkish joint economic commission session opens. (IRNA 12/16 in WNC 12/18, 12/19; MM 12/19)

ILMG meets at Naqura to consider a complaint by Israel regarding the launching of rockets into n. Israel 12/13. Although the Lebanese delegation does not believe katayushas actually were fired, the group concludes that at least 1 rocket, launched by an unknown party, landed in n. Israel. (RL 12/16 in WNC 12/17; RL 12/16 in WNC 12/18; RL 12/17 in WNC 12/19; MM 12/19; IGPO 12/26)

Netanyahu phones Arafat to ease tensions over settlement issue. Arafat and Netanyahu atty. Yitzhak Molho meet in the first high-level PA-Israeli contact in weeks. (ITV 12/15 in WNC 12/16; MM, WP 12/16; WP 12/17; MEI 12/20) (see 12/14)

PM Netanyahu says that his security services, specifically Shin Bet head Ami Ayalon, urged the opening of the archeological tunnel 9/24. Ayalon denies this. (ITV 12/15 in WNC 12/16; ITV 12/16, YA 12/17 in WNC 12/18; MM 12/17; HA, MA 12/18 in WNC 12/19)

PA security forces have detained 30 PFLP mbrs. since the 12/11 murder of 2 settlers. (MEI 12/20) (see 12/12)

PA military court sentences 2 Hamas mbrs. to death for killing 2 PA policemen a yr. ago. A 3d mbr. receives a life sentence for abetting the others. Since its establishment in 5/94, the PA has issued 12 death sentences of which 2 have been commuted, none carried out. (WT 12/16; PR 12/20)

Concerned over Israel's settlement policy, 8 fmr. high-ranking U.S. officials sent Netanyahu a letter, urging him "not to take unilateral actions that would preclude a meaningful settlement and a comprehensive and lasting peace." (MM, NYT 12/16; MM 12/17, 12/18; MEI 12/20; WJW 12/26) (see Doc. D2)

In Dublin, EU criticizes Israel's 12/13 decision to reinstate settlement benefits. (WT 12/15)

Germany, Jordan sign 3 agmts. under which Jordan will receive $6.8-m. worth of technical assistance over several yrs. (JT 12/14 in WNC 12/17)

IDF, Hizballah clash in s. Lebanon. 1 IDF soldier is wounded; 2 Hizballah mbrs. are killed. (ITV 12/14, RL 12/15 in WNC 12/17; NYT 12/16; WT 12/18)

Jordanian Information M Mu`asher meets with PM Netanyahu. (JT, RJ 12/13 in WNC 12/16)

Israeli cabinet reinstates large subsidies (incl. tax brakes, business grants) for West Bank settlers. The U.S. says the move is "troubling," "clearly complicates the peace process." (MM 12/13; MA 12/13 in WNC 12/16; IGPO 12/13, ITV 12/16 in WNC 12/17; LAWE, NYT, WP, WT 12/14; IGPO, WP 12/15; CSM, MM, WT 12/16; MEI, PR 12/20; JP 12/21)

In Gaza, 15,000 Palestinians attend antisettlement rally called by Hamas and approved by the PA. Hamas spokesman Mahmud Zahhar announces that Hamas soon will open political offices in Gaza (with PA permission) as a transitional step for "greater participation in public life"; West Bank offices are planned. (NYT 12/14; CSM 12/16; ITV 12/17 in WNC 12/19; MEI, PR 12/20; al-Quds 12/20 in WNC 12/26; JP 12/21)

After France drops its threat to veto him, UNSC chooses Ghana's Annan, current undersecy. gen. for peacekeeping operations, for secy. gen. The full UN General Assembly (UNGA) is expected to officially elect him 12/17. (NYT, WP, WT 12/14; CSM 12/16; MEI 12/20) (see 12/6)

Katayusha rockets are fired fr. s. Lebanon into n. Israel, in the first crossborder attack since the wide-scale Israeli-Lebanese fighting in 4/96. No one is injured, but a cow is killed. Democratic Front for the Liberation of Palestine (DFLP), Hizballah, PFLP, Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine-General Command (PFLP-GC) deny responsibility. (RL 12/13, RL, RMC 12/14, RL 12/15 in WNC 12/17; NYT, WP 12/14; RMC 12/15 in WNC 12/16; RL 12/15 in WNC 12/17; RL 12/16 in WNC 12/18; JP 12/21)

PA, EU sign a free trade agmt., called the "provisional association agmt.," which will go into effect in 1/97. The EU parliament will review the document for "final ratification" in 3/97. (PR 12/13)

EU special envoy Moratinos meets with Israeli FM Levy. Moratinos and Arab, Israeli leaders have agreed to set up a "red phone" to Moratinos to be used in case of any misunderstandings, emergencies among the parties. (ITV, QY 12/12 in WNC 12/16; MEI 1/24)

Arab League issues statement strongly condemning Israel's settlement activities, plans to build 132 units in East Jerusalem. (RE 12/12 in WNC 12/16) (see 12/11)

At the funeral for 2 settlers killed 12/11, Netanyahu vows to "deepen" Jewish settlements on the West Bank. PA says it has arrested 10 PFLP mbrs. in Ramallah. (MM 12/12; CSM, MM, NYT, WP, WT 12/13; PR 12/20; JP 12/28; MEI 1/10)

In Kiryat Gat in s. Israel, an Israeli shoots, kills a Palestinian worker fr. Gaza, whom he claims was trying to break into his home. Palestinians say the man, Samir Abu Shaqfa, was killed to avenge the death of 2 settlers 12/11. IDF detains the settler for questioning. (MM 12/12; NYT, WP 12/13; MM, PR 12/20; JP 12/21)

The World Bank approves a $120-m. loan to Jordan to support economic reforms. The variable-rate loan is for 17 yrs., incl. a 4-yr. grace period. (World Bank press release 12/12)

ILMG says that the IDF is responsible for the 12/7 attack on 2 s. Lebanon villages that left 6 Lebanese civilians wounded,; for using internationally banned flechette shells, which spray steel darts. Israel rejects the decision. (RL 12/12 in WNC 12/13; IDF Radio 12/12 in WNC 12/16; MM, WP 12/13) (see 12/9)

Hot line btwn. U.S., Israeli defense chiefs begins operation. The new direct link is aimed at providing a "private and dedicated means for the defense chiefs of the two countries to discuss matters of mutual interest." (JP 12/28)

In Baghdad, unidentified assailants use machine guns, grenades to attack car carrying Saddam Hussein's eldest son and heir apparent, Uday. The extent of Uday's injuries is not known, though he is alive. (al-Quds al-Arabi 1/6 in WNC 1/8; WP 1/29)

In Tel Aviv, Israeli DM Mordechai briefs Jordanian Information M Marwan Mu`asher on negotiations with the PA. Mu`asher warns Israel on expanding settlements, raising fears of a military conflict with Syria. (ITV, JTV 12/11, IGPO, RJ 12/12 in WNC 12/13)

In Cairo, Netanyahu adviser Gold discuses peace process with Pres. Mubarak. (RE 12/11 in WNC 12/12)

Israeli Justice Min. defends Shin Bet's use of moderate physical pressure in questioning Palestinians suspected of having knowledge of imminent anti-Israeli attacks; claims that 90 incidents (incl. 15 kidnapings of Israeli soldiers and civilians, 10 suicide bombings, 7 car bombings) have been averted over the past 2 yrs. as a result of such pressure. (IDF Radio 12/11 in WNC 12/12; MM 12/20) (see 11/14)

Two settlers are killed, 5 wounded in a drive-by shooting nr. Ramallah, which the IDF immediately seals off along with several surrounding villages. Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP) claims responsibility as a response to Israel's plans to build 132 Jewish houses in East Jerusalem (see 12/8). PA condemns the attack, saying it will give Israel a pretext to further delay negotiations. (MM 12/11; IDF Radio, ITV 12/11, RMC 12/12 in WNC 12/13; MM, NYT, WP, WT 12/12; MA 12/12 in WNC 12/16; WT 12/13; CSM 12/16; QY, YA 12/18 in WNC 12/19; MEI, PR 12/20; JP 12/21, 12/28; MEI 1/10; WJW 1/23)

Israel says that, under a Hebron deal, PA policemen may operate in H2 as part of joint mobile units. (Hatzofe 12/10 in WNC 12/11)

Jordanian Information M Marwan Mu`ashir begins 5-day trip to Tel Aviv, emphasizes Jordan's concern over Israeli settlement policy. (JT 12/10 in WNC 12/11; IDF Radio 12/11 in WNC 12/12; MEI 12/20)

The U.S. consul general says that Israel is threatening to revoke residency rights of Palestinian-Americans living in Jerusalem unless they give up their U.S. passports. The U.S. protests, says it knows of 60 cases when Israelis threatened Americans with the loss of their Jerusalem IDs. (WP 12/10; PR 12/20; JP 12/21)

Israel grants special entry permits to 120 Palestinian journalists accredited by the IGPO. (IGPO 12/10 in WNC 12/12)

PA allocates only $40,000 of the $70,000 necessary to stage the annual Christmas celebrations in Bethlehem. (WT 12/11; WT 12/23; PR 12/20)

In Beirut, EU special envoy Moratinos meets with Lebanese FM Buwayz. (RL 12/10 in WNC 12/11; MEI 1/24)

Iraq says it will give Turkey priority in exporting Iraqi oil now that the UN oil-for-food deal has been implemented. (INA 12/10 in WNC 12/11) (see 12/9)

ILMG continues discussions begun 12/9. (RMC 12/10 in WNC 12/11; RL 12/10 in WNC 12/12)

300 Palestinian students break into Islamic University of Hebron University, sealed by IDF since the 2+n3/96 suicide bombings in Israel; say they will stay until the university is reopened. (CSM, NYT 12/10)

EU special envoy Moratinos meets with King Hussein in Amman. (RJ 12/9 in WNC 12/11; MEI 1/24)

Syrian PM Mahmud Zubi begins 6-day visit to China. (WT 12/11) UN approves implementation of oil-for-food deal for Iraq. (NYT, WP 12/10; JT 12/10 in WNC 12/12; MM 12/11) (see 11/25)

ILMG meets to discuss the IDF's attack on a Lebanese village 12/7 that left 6 civilians wounded. (MM 12/9; RL 12/9 in WNC 12/10; RL 12/9, RMC 12/10 in WNC 12/11)

Egyptian, Jordanian, PA delegations to the quadripartite refugee comm. meet in Bethlehem. Israeli delegation refuses to attend. (PR 12/13) (see 12/2)

Israel says it is considering plan, approved by the Jerusalem planning commission. to build 132 houses for Jews in East Jerusalem. (CSM, MM 12/9; MM, NYT, WP 12/10; WT 12/11; CSM 12/12; PR 12/13; JP 12/21; MEI, PR 1/10)

PA demands that Israel provide dates for further redeployment in the West Bank, release of Palestinian prisoners along with a Hebron protocol; open the central market and al-Shuhada street in Hebron; allow PA police in Hebron joint patrol units to carry same weapons as the IDF; eliminate the term "hot pursuit" fr. any Hebron deal. (IDF Radio 12/8 in WNC 12/10)

In Cairo, Arafat briefs Mubarak on talks with Israel. (WT 12/7; RE 12/7 in WNC 12/10; PR 12/13)

In Gaza, Arafat briefs the Egyptian, Jordanian, PA delegations to the quadripartite refugee comm. on status of negotiations with Israel in preparation for full comm. mtg. 12/8. (PR 12/12)

Israeli police arrest Hebron settler leader Noam Arnon over a disturbance inside the Tomb of the Patriarchs/al-Ibrahimi Mosque. (NYT 12/10)

Jordan, Turkey begin discussing details of implementing their military agmt., signed a decade ago; focus on technical exchanges, joint training. (al-Ra'i 12/7 in WNC 12/10)

Roadside bomb explodes in s. Lebanon, killing 1 IDF soldier, wounding 2. Hizballah takes responsibility. Subsequent Israeli shelling wounds 6 civilians, incl. 1 child. (RL 12/7, 12/8 in WNC 12/10; NYT, WP 12/8; MM 12/9, 12/13)

PA negotiators say 3-way summit btwn. Egypt, Israel, PA to clinch a deal on Hebron may occur 12/7, though no date has been set. Arafat, Netanyahu say they are willing to meet. (WT 12/7; JP 12/14)

In Damascus, EU special envoy Miguel Angel Moratinos delivers Pres. Asad a message fr. PM Netanyahu, saying that Israel is interested in resuming negotiations, easing tensions. (MM 12/6; SATN 12/6 in WNC 12/10; MEI 1/24)

In Karak, Jordanian PM Kabariti issues an unprecedented public apology to Iraq for accusing Iraq of instigating the 8/16-18 bread riots. (MEI 12/20)

4 Africans are officially nominated to succeed UN Secy. Gen. Butros-Ghali: Mauritania's Ahmedou Ould Abdallah, Niger's Hamid Algabid, Ghana's Kofi Annan, Ivory Coast's Amara Essy. (NYT, WT 12/7)

IDF lifts ban prohibiting Israelis fr. entering the PA self-rule area of Bethlehem. The ban has been in place since the 9/24-28 clashes. (JP 12/14)

PA military court sentences Palestinian guard Assam Jalaita, who shot to death prisoner Fityani 12/3, to life in prison with hard labor. (NYT 12/7; JP 12/14)

U.S. Court of Appeals rules (8-2) that the Federal Election Commission (FEC) misapplied the federal campaign finance law in a 1992 decision that the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) did not fall under the FEC's jurisdiction, suggesting that AIPAC should register as a political action comm. (PAC) rather than a lobby. The FEC has 90 days to appeal the ruling to the Supreme Court, find another reason why AIPAC should not be registered as a PAC, or declare AIPAC a PAC. (WJW 12/12, 12/19)

At weekly PC session, mbrs. threaten the executive with a no-confidence vote if it does not take firm action on behalf of prisoners, says the leadership is "not dealing seriously" with the prisoner issue in negotiations with Israel. (PR 12/13)

Responding to PM Netanyahu's 12/4 suggestion, Arafat says that he is willing to take part in a bilateral summit to finalize terms of an Israeli redeployment in Hebron. (WP 12/6)

Jordan, PA hold trade talks in Amman; discuss holding future trilateral economic mtgs. with Israel on provisions for Jordanian exports to/imports fr. the PA self-rule areas. (RJ 12/5 in WNC 12/9)

IDF says that 17 mos. ago, after 5 mos. of preparation, a special forces unit named Egoz began operating against Hizballah in s. Lebanon. To date Egoz mbrs., chosen fr. Golani Brigade recruits, have killed 16 Hizballah fighters or officials. 2 Egoz mbrs. have been killed. (MM 12/5; JP 12/14)

In New York, donors pledge $133 m. to the annual UNRWA pledging conference for regular programs, operations for 1997. (UNRWA press release 12/9; JT 12/13 in WNC 12/16)

Pres. Clinton nominates Amb. to the UN Albright for secy. of state, Sen. William S. Cohen (R-ME) for secy. of defense, National Security Adviser (NSA) Anthony Lake for CIA dir., Dep. NSA Samuel Berger for NSA. (ITV 12/5, MA 12/6 in WNC 12/9; MM, NYT, WP, WP 12/6; VIRI 12/6, RMC 12/7, al-Dustur 12/8 in WNC 12/10; MM 12/9; JT, RL 12/10 in WNC 12/11; WJW 12/12; MEI 12/20; WJW 12/26, 1/2)

PA announces it will make an official inquiry into Fityani's death in PA custody 12/3. (NYT 12/6; PR 12/13)

PM Netanyahu says that PA, Israeli teams have exhausted their work; he and Arafat should hold a summit to wrap up the long-stalled talks on Hebron. (ITV 12/4 in WNC 12/6; MM 12/5; WP 12/6)

Israel, PA agree to set up a hot line in order to improve communications btwn. the Israeli Internal Security Min., the PSF in case of emergency. (IDF Radio 12/4 in WNC 12/6)

The World Bank loans Lebanon $35.7 m. for rehabilitation of the health sector. (RL 12/4 in WNC 12/6)

Israeli Atty. Gen. Mikhael Ben-Ya'ir announces his resignation, will step down 1/1/97. (MM 12/4; JP 12/14)

After the U.S. hints that it may drop its preference for an African candidate and begin considering non-Africans, UN Secy. Gen. Butros-Ghali temporarily suspends his candidacy for a 2d term, allowing other nominations to be made. (WP 12/5; CSM, MEI, WT 12/6)

In Tel Aviv, U.S. Amb. Indyk meets a delegation of rabbis fr. the International Rabbinical Coalition for the Land of Israel, which requests the U.S. lift its pressure for evacuating settlers fr. Hebron. (ITV 12/3 in WNC 12/6)

In Damascus, Iranian FM Ali Akbar Velayati delivers to Pres. Asad a letter fr. Pres. Ali Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani, discusses with Syrian FM Shara` measures to be adopted in case Israel launches an attack against Syria. (IRNA, VIRI 12/3 in WNC 12/4; WT 12/4; IRNA 12/4 in WNC 12/5; SANA 12/3 in WNC 12/6)

Egyptian Pres. Husni Mubarak says there is little more Egypt can do to help Butros-Ghali win a 2d term as UN secy. gen. if the U.S. continues to veto him, but Egypt will continue to support his bid. (NYT, WP 12/4) (see 11/29)

In Jericho, a PA jail guard shoots, kills prisoner Rashid Fityani, a suspected collaborator who was arrested 1/15/95 and never came to trial. PA Preventive Security Forces (PSF) says Fityani had been fighting with the guard. He is at least the 10th to die in PA custody. (NYT 12/6; PR 12/13; JP 12/14)

The Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) convenes in Lisbon. 54 mbr.-states attend. PM Netanyahu says that Israel will expand settlement construction in the West Bank; refuses Arafat's request to meet on sidelines of conference (Arafat does not attend mtg.); does meet with U.S. VP Al Gore, French Pres. Jacques Chirac. (MM 12/2; ITV 12/2, IDF Radio 12/3 in WNC 12/4; MM 12/3, 12/5)

PA releases Hamas's Shaykh Ahmad Nimr after a 9-mo. detention in Gaza Central Prison. (MEI, PR 12/13) (see 3/5)

Iranian FM `Ali Akbar Velayati arrives in Syria for talks on bilateral relations. Israel says it is concerned by the visit. (IRNA 12/2 in WNC 12/3; SATN 12/2, VIRI 12/3 in WNC 12/4; MA 12/5 in WNC 12/6)