The Palestine Chronology

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: All shops close in East Jerusalem in general strike to protest Israeli closure of the Hospice Hospital in Jerusalem's Old City [FJ 7/26]. P. M. Peres says Israel should not give up part of Golan Heights in deal with U.S.S.R. for emigration of Soviet Jews UP 7/25]. Kiryat Arba's new nine-member local council - pledged to firing its Arab employees, pressing private businesses to do likewise, and to preventing economic ventures with Arab investors - is formally installed; dozens of secular residents enter building to protest [JP 7/25]. Israeli civil administration governing the occupied territories announces high school matriculation exam results improved on West Bank this year; schools were closed less than in the past; 64 percent of West Bank students passed their exams this year, compared with 54 percent last year [JP 7/25].

Arab World: Jordanian diplomat Ziad Sati, 40, is assassinated in Turkey; Islamic Jihad takes credit [CSM 7/26, NYT 7/25].

Other Countries: Reagan administration presents Middle East arms transfer study to special closed session of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee as basis for request to sell new arms to Jordan and Saudi Arabia. Congressional supporters of Israel warn administration against pursuing the arms sale, saying it would provoke an "enormously divisive" debate [WP 7/24, 25, JTA 7/25, BG 7/26].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israel frees 74 Lebanese Shi'a, 6 Lebanese Sunnis, and 20 Palestinians held at Atlit prison since April, when Israel transferred 1,200 detainees from its Ansar prison in south Lebanon to Israel. Three hundred are still in detention. Any prisoner now detained in south Lebanon by Israel is sent to new prison run by SLA at Khiyam village, in the security zone [NYT 7/24]. 

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: U.S. says Israel cannot veto list of Palestinians for talks [NYT 7/19]. State Department says chief criterion for deciding to procede with negotiations is "whether it would help promote direct Arab-Israeli negotiations" [WP 7/19]. East Jerusalem newspaper al-Quds publishes list of 7 names for proposed joint delegation: Khaled al-Hasan, head of the PNC's foreign affairs committee; Fayez Abu Rahmeh, ex-head of Gaza Bar Association; Hatim al-Husseini, professor at Shaw University, Raleigh, N.C.; Salah al-Ta'amari, member of the PLO's Supreme Military Council; Nabil Sha'th, PNC member; Hanna Siniora, editor of al-Fajr newspaper; and Muhammad Subayh, PNC member. Henry Cattan, Paris-based lawyer and historian, is also mentioned as alternate [NYT 7/19, LAT 7/19]. Modi'in Ezrahi poll finds 12.7 percent of Israelis favor peace talks, regardless of which Palestinians participate; 33 percent oppose talks with any Palestinians [JP 7/19]. U.S. military delegation headed by Undersecretary of State William Schneider and General Philip Gast begins annual talks in Tel Aviv on scope of future U.S. military aid to Israel [JTA 7/19]. Orthodox Jews hold mass pray-in at the Western Wall in Jerusalem's Old City to protest construction of Mormon center they fear will be used to convert Jews. Israel's two chief rabbis endorse the event [LAT 7/19].

Arab World: Office of Arab Boycott of Israel, at biannual meeting in Damascus, removes Ford, Bayer, Colgate Palmolive, and 6 companies and individuals from other countries from its blacklist; 28 new companies added [FT, LAT 7/19].

Other Countries: Bomb explodes, wrecking house and car of the PLO's acting chief representative in Cyprus, Malath 'Abdu; no injuries reported [WP 7/18]. The Guardian reports 2 Palestinians were arrested by police in Madrid last week while allegedly planning to blow up Syrian embassy and assassinate ambassador. Suspects allegedly belong to Fateh's Force 17; police discovered TNT, arms, ammunition, a detonator, and a time fuse when they raided a flat in connection with the arrests [MG 7/19].

Other Countries: Soviet spokesman denies Moscow would make deal with Israel on increased Jewish emigration to Israel [DT 7/19]. Israel Radio reports Soviets want emigration guaranteed to Israel, not to other countries; want anti-Soviet propaganda stopped in the West [CT 7/21]. Moscow states goal as progress on Golan Heights [NYT 7/20]. U.S. officials state U.S. would welcome Soviet resumption of ties with Israel as constructive behavior in Middle East [LT 7/20].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: PM Peres rejects King Hussein's 5/29 call for intl. conference on Middle East peace; US State Dept. asserts US has "major difficulties" with concept of such a conference [NYT, WP 5/31]. Confessed Jewish underground defendant Menachem Neuberger sentenced to 22-mo. prison term [NYT 5/31].

Arab World: In Damascus, Pres. Assad confers with Pres. Gemayel on Beirut fighting [NYT 5/31].

Military Action

Arab World: Action in Lebanon: fighting in Sabra, Shatila camps sporadic; heavier combat rages near Burj al-Barajneh between Shi'ite, Palestinian fighters [NYT 5/31].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/lIsrael: DM Rabin indicates Israel will establish 3 to 10 mile "security zone" in S. Lebanon; states UNIFIL played "negative" role in area and that Israel would be "better off" without its presence [MG 4/20]. Jewish Press reports Jerusalem Deputy Mayor Nissim Ze'ev charged city's Arab-Jewish youth activities encourage inter-ethnic dating, marriage; demanded Palestinians be banned from such activities [JP 4/19].

Other Countries: In Washington, Intl. Center for Research and Public Policy releases survey indicating 55% of American public believes peace will come to Middle East only when Palestinian state is created; only 27% felt such a state would constitute a threat to Israel; 70% feel US policy in region should be evenhanded [FJ 4/26].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Bomb explodes in Jerusalem street; no injuries; 77 arrested [JP 4/21]. IDF raid, close Bethlehem U. indefinitely [LT 4/20]. In al-Bureij camp, Border Police fire on crowd, killing 12-yr.- old 'Issa Isma'il 'Issa, wounding 2nd youth; over 250 arrested in subsequent demonstrations [JP 4/21]. Israeli taxi driver shot, killed on W. Bank; 3 suspects arrested, contend motive was robbery [JP 4/21, 22]. IDF arrest 35 young boys from 'Ain Arik, including 5-yr.-old Muhammad 'Ali Dhyab, on charges of participating in 2/85 stone-throwing incident; older boys beaten [FJ 4/26].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: In demonstrations called for by Democratic Front for Peace and Equality, Palestinians in Nazareth and Kafr Yassif protest IDF brutality in S. Lebanon, discrimination faced by Arabs in Israel and occupied territories [FJ 3/22]. Al Hamishmar reports Jordan's Min. for Religious Affairs dismissed Mufti of Jerusalem, Sheikh Saad al-Din al-Alami; cites al-Alami's outspoken support of PLO Chmn. Arafat as one reason [NER 3/25].

Arab World: King Hussein states 2/11 Arafat-Hussein accord is "last chance" for peace; asserts PLO must be part of peace plans [NYT 3/17].

Other Countries: US Sec. of State Shultz announces US will send State Dept. official Richard Murphy to Middle East soon to "maintain momentum" of peace talks [NYT, WP 3/16].

Military Action

Arab World: Action in S. Lebanon: IDF raid Barish; 70 detained [WP 3/16]. IDF kill 2 Lebanese Army troops, 3 resistance fighters, N. of IDF defense line at Litani River [MG 3/16]. IDF arrest 4 journalists near Tyre [LT 3/16].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Defying censorship laws, Koteret Rashit reports Gen. Yitzhak Mordechai at center of inquiries into the 4/13 killing of 2 Gaza residents captured alive following a bus highjacking [MG 2/21]. Rabbi Moshe Levinger, more than 100 other settlers, confront 5 Palestinian women at Tal Rumeida, Hebron; IDF later closes area [FJ 2/22].

Other Countries: US, USSR end talks in Vienna on Middle East; no accord reached; US continues to reject suggestion for intl. conference, favoring directalks instead [NYT 2/22].

Military Action

Arab World: IDF raid al-Bazouriya, S. Lebanon in wake of recent Israeli casualties in the area; 2 killed, 200 questioned [NYT, LAT 2/21]. IDF liaison office attacked in Nabatiya, S. Lebanon; no injuries [JTA 2/21].

Social/Economic/Political

Arab World: Chrmn. Arafat & Exec. Com. submit resignations at PNC mtg.

Other Countries: During UN debate on Middle East, EEC countries call Israel, Palestinians & Arab states to mutual recognition, renunciation of force & for end to Israeli settlements. MK Abd al-Wahab Darousha tries to attend PNC by entry from Greece, but his (Labor) party persuades him to return home.

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli troops shoot & wound Nablus youth during stone-throwing incident.

Arab World: Israeli F15s & F16s attack DFLP base in Qubb Elias, Beqaa Valley; 7 killed, 9 wounded; Syrian anti-aircraft tire repels planes.

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Lydd military court convicts Palestinian Amjad Rabi'a & Lebanese Wafiq Tsalaha of entering Israel from Lebanon & staging attack on Jerusalem market (4/2/84), killing 1, wounding 47; sentencing postponed.

Other Countries: Though not mentioning Israel by name, US Sec. of State Shultz tells New York audience of need to ease Middle East tensions to prevent nuclear proliferation there.

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: After closure of Bethlehem U., stone-throwing atIsraeli cars resumes around Bethlehem and Bir Zeit. 2 petrol bombs thrown at shops in Manger Square, Bethlehem.

Arab World: IDF soldier injured as light arms fire & RPGs hit outpost near Lake Karoun, S. Lebanon.

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Nablus Chamber of Commerce submits memorandum to "civil administration" outlining city's urgent social and economic problems; no response from authorities. 19 Palestinians arrested for stone-throwing during MK Kahane's attempted entry into Umm al-Fahm (8/29). Israeli troops raid Qalandiya refugee camp, detain several youths suspected of commandeering bulldozer from nearby quarry and flattening Israeli-built barrier at camp entrance.

Arab World: Druze leaders meet in Majd al-Shams (Golan) to demand dismissal of 30 teachers accepting Israeli ID cards. Chrmn. Arafat meets with French FM Cheysson in Tunis.

Other Countries: Chrmn. Arafat cables Chrmn. Truong Chinh on occasion of Vietnam's nat'l. day. 2nd anniversary of Reagan Middle East peace initiative. US Navy announces Israel will lend 12 Kfir jets on no-cost 4-yr. lease for use in combat training; Israel Aircraft Ind. will maintain jets for "firm fixed price."

Military Action

Arab World: Palestinian & Lebanese resistance detonate remote-control bomb as IDF patrol near Marjayoun, S. Lebanon, destroying jeep, wounding occupants.

Social/Economic/Political Occupied Palestine/Israel: Nablus prison inmates begin hunger strike to protest prison conditions. Kahane's incitement turns rite to bury Jewish religious articles in Hebron into rally for massive settlement of "greater Israel." Israel Treasury source says aid request from US for 1985 will be $5 billion.

Arab World: Addressing African-Arab Solidarity Conference in Tunis, Chrmn. Arafat calls for rigorous opposition to US policies in Middle East & Africa. IDF called mtg. of Tyre fishermen to ration out 400 fishing licenses.

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: 20 Gilo settlers evict nearby Salman family at gunpoint from their home, then bulldoze it. 62-yr.- old Palestinian woman dies of heart attack while pleading with IDF soldiers tying to trees and beating 3 of her relatives working in Heletez settlement.

Arab World: IDF bulldozers seal off Adloun village surrounding it with earthen wall.

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israel rejects recent USSR peace proposal based on Brezhnev plan. Jerusalem mayor Kollek tells news conference of drive against Kach and Meir Kahane with appeal to support anti-racism bill. Defendents Amjad Rabaya and Wafiq Sawalha tried for armed attack on W. Jerusalem street (4/2/84) admit charges, insisting on POW status. Najah student sentenced to 10 mos. charged with membership in Palestinian organization. Police summon head of Gaza Citrus Producers' Union, warning of legal retaliation against Union for assisting farmers to obtain financialid.

Other Countries: USSR calls for renewal of Geneva Middle East peace talks including USSR, US, Israel, PLO & Arab states.

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli-made bomb thrown at Shefa 'Amr home; no injuries. Kach members beat up 2 Palestinian laborers; victims hospitalized in serious condition.

Arab World: IDF units attacked by rocket fire near Jezzine and S. of Tyre.

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli squatters pitch tents on Abu Dis village land (6 km S. of Jerusalem) secretly declared closed; local landowners present written protest to authorities. Beit Sahour Arab Women's Union issues statement negating recent meeting with "civil admin." representative, and pledges to abide by boycott of "civil admin." Jerusalem police arrest Waqf official for allowing funeral with coffin draped with Palestinian flag.

Arab World: Beirut protesters end 4-day blockade of West Beirut and Beirut Airport after Pres. Gemayel promises to place issue of prisoners at top of cabinet agenda. French Pres. Mitterrand in Amman endorses King Hussein's call for UN-sponsored peace negotiations, including 15 members of Security Council and confronting Middle East states.

Other Countries: Chrmn. Arafat meets UN Sec. Gen. De Cuellar in Geneva to discuss proposed UN-sponsored peace negotiations.

Military Action

Arab World: Pro-Israel mayor Jawad Khalifa of Sarafand, S. Lebanon killed by car bomb.

Social/Economic/Political:

Occupied Palestine/Israel: IDF disband Tulkarm Red Crescent Society admin. council for unspecified reasons. Arab World: Jordan's Queen Noor criticizes US-Israeli ties before World Affairs Council, Washington, DC.

Other Countries: On Middle East fact-finding mission, UN Undersec. Gen. Urquhart told by Shamir of Israel's opposition to UNIFIL troops in S. Lebanon. Israel claims smuggled Palestinian vegetables from West Bank & Gaza sold on Israeli market.

Military Action:

Arab World: 1 IDF soldier killed, 1 wounded in roadside bomb blast near Sarafand, S. Lebanon; IDF conducts house-to-house search, arresting several "suspects."

Social/Economic/Political:

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Military sources announce plans to expel Palestinian leader Abu Ali Shahin held incommunicado for past 11 months on charges of illegal residence in Gaza. After 2-week study, IMF delegation endorses Israel Treasury policies. Druze spiritual leader Sheikh Amin Tarif criticizes Golani Druze for demonstrating in Nabi Shu'eib against Israeli occupation. French national Henri Eichholtzer given 4-year sentence for passing informaiton to PLO; evidence convicting Eichholtzer allegedly found among documents looted from Beirut by IDF. Suspended al-Najah U.'s Council of Deans issues statement of concern over restriction on academic life.

Arab World: In New York Times interview, King Hussein rules out direct negotiations with Israel in near future and says US lost all credibility as mediator by its lopsided policy.

Other Countries: At New York fundraiser, MK Sharon warns arms sold to Jordan will only aim at Israel, and US "must stop immediately the dangerous arms race in the Middle East." Greek police arrest Palestinian Alani Abdul Rahim charged with assassination attempt on Israeli diplomatic mission head in Athens.

SOCIAL/POLITICAL:

Arab World: Lebanese Shi'ite and Druze leaders call for Pres. Gemayel's resignation.

Other Countries: US Senate Finance Committee begins hearings on issue of establishing free trade relations with Israel. US Sec. of State Shultz, in Brazilia, accuses Syria of "trying to dominate Lebanon by force." Pres. Reagan orders use of air and naval forces against anti-gov't. positions around Beirut. Late American journalist Fred Sparks' $25,000 bequest to PLO diverted to Red Cross for work with Palestinians; decision results from protest suit taken up by 3 American Zionist organizations. Speaking in Melbourne, former Pres. Carter calls for US withdrawal from Lebanon. European Parliament Pres. Dankert criticizes Israeli policy in Middle East before Knesset and in mtg. with PM Shamir.

MILITARY ACTION:

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Nisreen Ahmed Shrouf, 5 years old, killed, 2 brothers and 2 sisters wounded in Bethlehem when grenade explodes in hand; grenade suspected planted by "TNT."

Arab World: Shi'ite and Druze forces take over most of West Beirut from LAF/Phalange; demand Gemayel's resignation. 2 Israelis wounded when grenades hit IDF patrols south of Zahrani River; grenade attacks on IDF patrols in Sidon and Nabatiya market. US gunships Garcia and JF Kennedy and A-6 Intruder bombers pound mountain positions near Beirut.

SOCIAL/POLITICAL:

Other Countries: British Foreign Secretary Sir Geoffrey Howe rejects Israeli argument that PLO has no role in Middle East settlement and Israeli amb. Yehuda Avner's censure of Howe's statement from Riyadh, urging Israel's recognition of Palestinian rights to self-determination, criticizing West Bank settlement policy and calling for PLO involvement in peace talks. Italian gov't. rejects Gemayel's demand that its MNF contingent withdraw from Palestinian refugee camps and concentrate on protection of Beirut commercial establishments and government buildings. US amb. to UN Kirkpatrick rejects Sec. Gen. Perez de Cuellar's Middle East peace conference proposal as "ill-considered and harmful." 

SOCIAL/POLITICAL:

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Imam of Katibeh Mosque in Gaza given 18 mos. prison term for "incitement" after denouncing murder of Hebron U. students last July. Gaza artist, Fathi Ghabin's detention extended for producing "inciting" posters. Raphael Eitan and Chaim Herzog lead public castigation of 6 Israeli POWs returned by PLO in November prisoner exchange and 2 others still captive for cowardly surrender. Gush Emunim settlers camp at Joseph's Tomb in Nablus declaring to create permanent Jewish presence there; Peace Now warns of demonstration next day, supports DM Zipori's position that encampment is illegal. Teachers in 10 Israeli gov't. schools in Ramallah and al-Bireh strike over low wages. Life sentences given 2 Palestinians charged with killing Ramallah Village League head (1981), and an attack on IDF officer imposed as "(mayor" of al-Bireh; 2 others sentenced to 12-14 years for attacking Israeli settler in Hebron.

Arab World: Arafat accepts outline of Saudi-organized ceasefire in Tripoli. After letter from Pres. Reagan reiterating US position, King Hussein says he is prepared to resume talks with Arafat on joint Palestinian-Jordanian approach to negotiations with Israel; in light of current struggle in Tripoli, Hussein promises to put "no conditions on him. " Rebel spokesman asserts Tripoli fighting results from Arafat's refusal to heed Coordination Committee proposals. Tyre municipality opens special employment office for men released from Ansar prison; appeals to UNRWA to provide jobs.

Other Countries: Meeting in Washington, Pres. Gemayel and Reagan agree to stand by May 17 Lebanese-Israeli agreement. US Sec. of Defense Weinberger tells Jewish leaders of Synagogue Council of America that Arafat is "irrelevant" to future of Middle East. Chile's FM ends visit to Israel; agreement reached to expand mutual trade and agricultural cooperation. Abu Ja'far, Dir. of PLO Political Dep't holds talks with Soviet charge d'affaires in Tunis; also received GDR, DPRK, Rumanian, Polish and Czech ambassadors on occasion of Int'l. Day of Solidarity with Palestinian People. Major oil co.s shipping under Liberian flag pressure Liberian gov't. to cancel plans for embassy in Jerusalem; ambassador reported looking for alternative location in Tel Aviv.

MILITARY ACTION:

Arab World: Palestinian casualties in Lebanon mountain artillery exchanges: 2 PFLP fighters, 1from Struggle Front, 2 from Liberation Army and 1 from al-Saiqa killed; 2 from Struggle Front wounded. Israel-backed militia chief in S. Lebanon, Abu Saleh, quits to renew loyalty to Amal militia. 1983 to date, 71 Druze quit Israeli military for religious reasons (compares with 19 in 1982).

Military Action:

Fighting continues in southern Beirut suburbs and in Chouf between LAF and Amal and PSP militias; IDF convoy attacked in South Lebanon.

Casualties:

18 wounded in fighting between LAF and militias; deaths from Sunday's bombings now reported to be US, 225, French, 56.

Political Responses:

Palestinians/ Lebanese: Leader of Islamic Amal movement denies any direct or indirect role in Beirut bombings, calls them retribution and a blow for Lebanese dignity and independence; Jumblatt orders release of 1000 civilians under siege in Deir al-Qamar.

US and Other Countries: Foreign ministers of MNF countries meet in Paris, agree to maintain forces in Beirut, Shultz raises possibility of US retaliation for bombing, other states reportedly reluctant; Reagan says those who directed the atrocity must be dealt justice, asks whether the US or the Free World can stand by and see the Middle East incorporated into the Soviet Bloc.

Military Action:

Druze militia attacks Lebanese Army at 3 outposts east of Damour, captures 2 positions; rocket and artillery duels follow Druze attack, Beirut airport closed after shells fall on runway, terminal building, nearby residential areas; IDF supports Lebanese Army at Kfar Matta; US Marines fire flares as warnings to Druze gunners in Chouf.

Casualties:

4 civilians, 2 IDF soldiers killed, 24 wounded, including 8 Lebanese soldiers, 4 IDF, 1 US Marine, in shelling of airport area; 3 government ministers, attempting to mediate, detained at Jumblatt's residence.

Political Responses:

Israel/ Occupied Territories: Israeli shekel devalued by 7.5%, brings cumulative devaluation in 1983 to 72%.

Palestinians/ Lebanese: Dany Chamoun meets Shamir, other Israeli officials in Jerusalem.

US and Other Countries: Draper named new US ambassador to Tunisia, other US Middle East diplomatic positions shuffled.

Military Action:

IDF hands over checkpoint at Monteverde, east of Beirut, to Lebanese Army; anti-aircraft missile fired at IDF transport plane preparing for takeoff near Damour.

Casualties:

IDF disperses women demonstrating near Sidon for release of detainees at Ansar.

Political Responses:

Israel/ Occupied Territories: Soldiers and police fire bullets, tear gas, to break up demonstration near Jerusalem's Al-Aqsa mosque, 40 arrested; Arens says cycle of violence on West Bank is initiated generally by some elements of the Arab population, refuses requests from 40 leading West Bank and Gaza Palestinians for permission to travel to Tunis to convey support for Arafat; Shlomo Argov, Israeli ambassador to UK whose attempted assassination in 1982 was pretext for invasion, says the war was unjustified.

Palestinians/ Lebanese: Fateh rebels refuse Arafat's offer to withdraw PLO loyalist forces from Beqaa to Tripoli; Arafat says crisis in PLO serves Israel, has reduced attacks against IDF from one or two a day to 2 or 3 in past 15 days.

US and Other Countries: Shultz reports to Reagan on Middle East tour.

Casualties:

2 PLO officials and director of Palestine Research Center expelled from Lebanon.

Political Responses:

Palestinians/ Lebanese: Fateh rebels agree on cease-fire with PLO delegation.

Arab Governments: Shultz arrives in Saudi Arabia from Pakistan at start of Middle East diplomatic circuit.

Military Action:

4 attacks on IDF positions reported: 2 shells fired near Amiq in eastern sector, RPGs fired at roadblock south of Sidon, light arms fire at convoy near Jezzine; fighting continues in Chouf.

Political Responses:

Palestinians/ Lebanese: Arafat expelled from Syria, escorted to Damascus airport by Syrian security officials, placed on flight to Tunis; Abu Jihad also declared persona non grata in Syria and Syrian-controlled areas of Lebanon.

US and Other Countries: Habib and Draper begin visit to Middle East in effort to persuade Syria to withdraw its troops; GAO issues heavily censored report on US aid to Israel, says US likely to come under more pressure to provide grants and concessions as Israel's debt grows.

Military Action:

Artillery fire exchanged between Phalangist and Druze militias in Souk al-Gharb and Aitat villages; IDF reports 3 attacks, no casualties: RPGs fired at convoy, small arms fire at military police HQ and roadside bomb as convoy passes near Ansar prison camp; fighting in Tripoli between pro- and anti-Syrian groups.

Casualties:

1 person killed, 15 injured in Tripoli fighting.

Political Responses:

Palestinians/ Lebanese: Lebanese parliament approves troop withdrawal agreement by 65-2 vote, with 4 abstentions.

US and Other Countries: Weinberger says US-Israel memorandum of understanding on strategic cooperation against Soviet threats in Middle East, suspended since December 1981, could be restored any time Israeli government wishes.

Political Responses:

Israel/ Occupied Territories: Knesset votes 55-8, with 46 abstentions, to affirm government's decision to sign agreement with Lebanon; High Court increases fines from IS2,000 to IS10,000 on 4 Jewish students convicted and sentenced by Haifa court for attacking 2 Arab students at the Technion in 1981, leaves standing their suspended 6 to 9 month jail sentences; "Fist of Defense," secret Jewish vigilante group reportedly under investigation, has claimed responsibility for slashing tires, breaking windows of Arab cars, planting bomb outside Hebron mosque; stones thrown at Israeli vehicles in Ramallah, school closed; students at Tireh women's college march in Ramallah carrying Palestinian flags, IDF disperses demonstration, closes school for remainder of academic year; several arrested in Nablus for stone throwing; 3 persons placed under house arrest for 6 months.

Palestinians/ Lebanese: Lebanese Parliament unanimously affirms agreement with Israel; text of withdrawal agreement published; Gemayel says Shultz should return to Middle East to assist Lebanon negotiate withdrawal of Syrian forces, negotiations will begin this week in Tunis with PLO on withdrawal of its forces; Fateh Central Committee meets in Damascus to deal with undisciplined behavior of military unit in Bekaa Valley; pamphlets prepared by Fateh rebels accuse Arafat of plotting to sell out Palestinian cause to US, Israel and reactionary Arab regimes.

US and Other Countries: US intelligence officials reportedly have evidence linking the government of Iran with April 18 bombing of US Embassy in Beirut.

Military Action:

Syrian Army reportedly constructing new fortifications and anti-tank ditches in Bekaa, 10 miles north of IDF positions.

Casualties:

Italian journalist expelled from Beirut by Lebanese security service.

Political Responses:

Israel/ Occupied Territories: Defense Minister Arens says prototype of Lavi jet fighter will be flying in 1986, it will be the most advanced plane in the world; Central Bureau of Statistics reports record monthly rise in cost of living index for April of 13.3%, 1983 rate to this point is equivalent to 160% inflation; demonstrations in Nablus on 35th anniversary of Israel's independence, 2 men shot, another injured while being chased by IDF patrol, curfew imposed, many arrests; demonstrations also in Ramallah and Kafr Sa'ir, school closed for 2 weeks; molotov cocktail thrown at IDF vehicle near Balata camp.

Palestinians/ Lebanese: Lebanese-Israeli-US negotiators complete work at Netanya on final language of withdrawal agreement; Arafat says an effective war is only way to redraw political map of Middle East, all Palestinian ranks and leadership are disciplined and committed to national unity; Fateh military officers Abu Musa and Abu Khalid Amia criticize recent appointments by Arafat of military commanders in Lebanon, call for Fateh conference.

Arab Governments: Syrian President Assad meets and offers support to Lebanese opponents of withdrawal agreement, including Walid Jumblatt, George Hawi, Assem Kanso.

Military Action:

Syrian forces fire on IDF tractor and APC in Bekaa Valley.

Casualties:

Suspect in assassination of Bashir Gemayel handed over to Lebanese judicial authorities by Phalange militiamen holding him since September; IDF separates Lebanese and Palestinian detainees at Ansar detention camp.

Political Responses:

Israel/ Occupied Territories: Government reportedly plans to move thousands of residents out of West Bank refugee camps, will offer them grants to build homes on land placed at their disposal by government, seeks financial support for plan from other governments and from international Zionist organizations; 2 women in Galilee village of Arraba arrested on security charges; British Ambassador in Israel summoned to Foreign Ministry for severe condemnation of recent British statements on Middle East and meeting between Foreign Office Minister and PLO official in Tunis; 350 dunums of land seized at Umar, West Bank village near Gush Emunim settlement of Migdal Oz; West Bank Union of Chambers of Commerce defies High Court decision, will not collect value added tax.

US and Other Countries: After 4-hour meeting with Mubarak, Shultz says US and Egypt hold identical views on withdrawal of foreign forces from Lebanon; State Dept. official says Israel and Lebanon have agreed on 95% of a withdrawal plan, Haddad's role is main obstacle; 3,000 attend memorial service in Washington for Americans killed in Beirut Embassy, at least 7 CIA employees reportedly among those killed in the explosion.

Military Action:

IDF attacked in Sidon and Bekaa, no reported casualties; Israeli intelligence attributes US embassy bomb to fundamentalist Shiite organization closely connected to Iran and Syria.

Casualties:

Lebanese lawyer shot and killed by French member of MNF when he fails to stop at roadblock.

Political Responses:

Israel/ Occupied Territories: Cabinet debates withdrawal of IDF to Awali river, no decision reportedly reached; at Cabinet meeting, Sharon attacks government's failure to launch reprisals against PLO for attacks on IDF; 3 molotov cocktails thrown at IDF vehicle in Beit Jala, 2 at Jalazon camp, no injuries reported.

Palestinians/ Lebanese: PLO military documents seized by IDF in Sidon during war in Lebanon, edited by Hebrew University faculty member, are published in London under title PLO in Lebanon-Selected Documents; Lebanese merchants informed by government they have until May 7 to cut commercial ties with Israel.

US and Other Countries: Shultz starts Middle East tour, says his objectives are finding secure arrangements for Israel, removing foreign troops from Lebanon, and finding some manner of recognizing the legitimate needs and aspirations of the Palestinian people; British Minister of State for Foreign Affairs says US should exert more pressure on Israel to withdraw from Lebanon and freeze West Bank settlements.

Military Action:

IDF reportedly constructing series of large and sophisticated military bases across South and central Lebanon, including airstrip at Damour, barracks and transport facilities at Sidon, fortified posts in Arkoub and Bekaa Valleys, logistics HQ near Marjayoun; Syrian forces and IDF exchange artillery fire in Bekaa; Haddad says he must formally be made military governor of South Lebanon.

Casualties:

9 suspects indicted for grenade attack that wounded 5 US Marines on March 16.

Political Responses:

Israel/ Occupied Territories: IDF seals 4 Dahariya homes of Palestinians who reportedly admitted to attacks in Hebron area, including stone-throwing that killed Israeli woman in January; IDF orders West Bank schools to remain closed until April 19, Jenin schools closed indefinitely; Umm Safa and Gibya residents report thousands of dunams seized for nearby Ateret settlement; molotov cocktail thrown at border police patrol in Bethlehem; Jerusalem Mayor Kollek warns civic and religious leaders of Shufat and Beit Hanina if they don't stop stone-throwing along road to Neve Ya'acov settlement then police and army will; Peace Now begins protests near site of proposed Upper Nablus settlement; court orders Ministry of Defense to pay compensation of IS2m. to family of Palestinian woman shot by Israeli soldier in April 1982, soldier given 5 months suspended sentence; Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs spokesman offers 3,939 apartments and building plots in West Bank and Gaza, announces campaign to expand 68 settlements, increase Jewish population in occupied territories 30-50,000 in next 18 months; Chief of Staff Eitan, in farewell statement to Cabinet, says there should be 10 new Jewish settlements for each stone-throwing incident, when Israelis have settled the land all the Arabs will be able to do about it is scurry around like drugged roaches in a bottle; 2 Likud MKs recommend that soldiers be instructed to aim higher if shooting at demonstrators' legs doesn't stop stone-throwing; Israeli Electric Corporation completes 4-year project to supply electricity to West Bank settlements and villages at cost of IS360m.; Association for Civil Rights says ban on section of '83 film is attack on freedom of expression, asks for its revocation.

Palestinians/ Lebanese: PLO stresses importance of continuing relations and dialogue with Jordan; Habib participates for first time in troop withdrawal negotiations at Netanya.

Arab Governments: Mubarak says it is imperative PLO join Jordan to facilitate negotiations; Moroccan sources say proposed Arab summit later this week likely to be postponed; Jordan reportedly considering reducing ties to West Bank; King Hussein meets British Foreign Secretary; Syria says Hussein's refusal to enter talks shows US does not hold key to Middle East peace.

US and Other Countries: Shultz says there is no alternative to the Reagan plan, suggests PLO should lose its 1974 Arab League mandate as sole legitimate representative of the Palestinian people if this authority is not exercised constructively; House Foreign Affairs subcommittee links sale of advanced US weapons to Jordan to commitment to recognize Israel and enter into direct negotiations with it, increases Reagan's requests for economic aid to Israel from $785m. to $850m., all grants, increases grant portion of military aid from $550m. to $850m. out of $1.7b. total, and approves same amount for FY 1985 in largest single legislative package of aid for Israel ever approved; CIA director Casey reportedly travelled secretly to Israel last week to convince Israelis that Lebanese Army can control South Lebanon.

Military Action:

IDF and US Marines agree on measures to avoid confrontations; 4,000 Lebanese police, using jeeps and APCs, begin 24-hour patrols in Beirut; Syrian and Israeli tanks oppose each other for second day along cease-fire line.

Political Responses:

Israel/ Occupied Territories: Israel describes EEC statement on Middle East as a total distortion, rejects call for settlement halt; High Court overturns as too vague a year-old ban by Broadcasting Authority on interviews with public figures in occupied territories identified with the PLO; studies resume at Birzeit, 7 students held for possession of illegal literature; Israeli car window smashed by stone near Kalandia camp, school closed.

Arab Governments: Egyptian foreign minister says Egypt will not refuse to resume dialogue with PLO if it serves the Palestinian cause.

US and Other Countries: Reagan Administration reportedly irritated at Israeli refusal to accept US ideas to break dead-lock in Lebanon negotiations.

Military Action:

Abu Jihad, in interview, says PLO guerrillas ordered to step up attacks on IDF in Lebanon.

Casualties:

Detainees at Ansar camp carry out pro-PLO demonstration for 6 hours when IDF unit enters camp for inspection; Lebanese Army destroys Palestinian houses in Burj al-Barajneh.

Political Responses:

Israel/ Occupied Territories: 29 Jews placed under house arrest, fined IS5,000 in connection with Temple Mount incident; Cabinet agrees to share military intelligence from Lebanon war with US; 2 Bedouin arrested for breaking windows of tractors at planned Nevatim air force base near Tel Malhata, for which 700 families are being evacuated; Supreme Muslim Council calls for educational and commercial strike to protest March 1 1 Temple Mount incident; shops forced open by border police in Nablus; curfews in Halhoul and 4 refugee camps approach end of second continuous week; stone-throwing in Jerusalem, Hebron and 6 other West Bank towns; 32 school-children in Araba suffer unexplained illness; government announces plans to establish 15 military settlements, convert to civilian settlements 8 existing military posts in West Bank; Labor MK calls new settlement plans a tombstone for Middle East peace; 260 West Bank residents convicted of stone-throwing since January 1; Kiryat Arba resident detained on charge of firing shots at Hebron house on February 26, wounding 5 year-old girl.

Palestinians/ Lebanese: Lebanese-Israeli-US talks resume in Netanya.

US and Other Countries: US officials welcome Israeli decision to share military data from Lebanon war, will send 4-man US Air Force team to Israel next month to begin evaluation.