The Palestine Chronology

UN Sec. Council votes 14-1 to impose embargo on air traffic to and from Iraq and Kuwait. The sole "nay" vote is cast by Cuba [NYT, LAT, WP, WT 9/26; MET 10/9]; in hard-hitting speech at Gen. Assembly, Soviet F.M. Shevardnadze suggests Moscow would support military operation against Iraq if sanctions fail, and warns war may be imminent if Saddam does not leave Kuwait [WP 9/26; NYT 9/26, 9/27; MEM 9/26; CSM 9/27].

In 75-min. speech broadcast in its entirety on CNN (excerpts on major networks), Saddam tells American television audience that Iraq is the victim of conspiracies [INA 9/26 in FBIS 9/26; NYT, WP, WT, MEM 9/26].

U.S. House Appropriations Committee shelves Pres. Bush's request to cancel Egypt's military debt to U.S. after being told it faced certain defeat (cf. 9/30) [MEM 9/26].

After 4 days of talks in Teheran, Pres. Asad and Pres. Rafsanjani declare "full agreement" on opposition to Iraq's invasion of Kuwait [MEM 9/25; NYT 9/26].

Asad is credited with bringing Iran into anti-Iraq camp, persuading Iranian leadership to recast call to jihad against West as measure to be taken only if West stays on after Iraqi withdrawal from Kuwait [NYT 10/11].

Saudi Arabia expels 12 more diplomats from Jordanian consulate and embassy; Jordan recalls its ambassador in protest [NYT 9/26].

Israel's Supreme Court rules army can raze Palestinian houses and shops around area where IDF soldier was killed on 9/20. Court says demolitions are urgent military need, and can proceed if homeowners are given compensation [WP, LAT, WT 9/26; FJ 10/6; MET 10/9].

After visit to Bureij refugee camp, UNRWA commissioner general expresses concern about demolition of houses and shops, says there is a disproportion between the 9/20 killing and Israel's response [JDS 9/26 in FBIS 9/27].

Israeli think tank Jafee Center issues annual report "Intemnational Terrorism 1989" attributing to Middle East groups only 8.9% of 406 incidents recorded; report states Fateh helped Western security agencies curb terror and that Palestinian attacks outside Israel declined sharply [MEM 9/26].

45th session of the UN Gen. Assembly opens; French Pres. Mitterrand denounces Iraq, but outlines 4-stage plan to solve conflicts in Middle East (including Arab-Israeli and Lebanese). Iranian F.M. Velayati says Iran will abide by Sec. Council sanctions [LAT, NYT, WP, WT, MEM 9/25].

Pres. Mubarak meets with Saudi F.M. Prince Saud al-Faisal to discuss Gulf crisis [MENA 9/24 in FBIS 9/25; MET 10/2].

West German gov't says it will donate nearly $500 million worth of East German military equipment to U.S. forces in Gulf; South Korea announces a contribution of $220 million in cash, goods, and services to support multinational force [LAT 9/25].

Saudi Arabia expels 14 Iraqi, 56 Yemeni, and 10 Jordanian diplomats, accusing them of spying; action is seen primarily as retaliation for Jordan and Yemen stand on Gulf crisis [WT 9/25].

IDF prepares to demolish more than 20 Palestinian houses and shops around area in Bureij camp where Israeli soldier was killed 9/20. Supreme Court issues temporary restraining order after half the buildings are destroyed [NYT, WP, LAT, WT 9/25; MET 10/2].

2 U.S. Apache attack helicopters sold to Israel for $350 million each are met at air base by P.M. Shamir, who says U.S. is "obliged" to maintain Israel's military advantage over its Arab neighbors. Sale is part of deal that includes 16 additional Apaches, 60 F-16 fighter-bombers, 10 Sikorsky helicopters, and Stinger missiles [LAT 9/13].

Iran's "supreme leader" Ayatollah Khamenei declares jihad against U.S. forces in Saudi Arabia, calls American policy "greedy, bullying, and shameless"; denounces Saudis for inviting Americans in, he states: "a force that enters a country to defend it will grow to impose its will on the host and to humiliate it" [LAT, NYT, WT, WP, MEM 9/13].

PLO Exec. Committee releases statement in Tunis on Gulf situation, stressing linkage issue and regretting U.S. stance; Arafat meets with King Hussein on political solutions to Gulf crisis "within an Arab framework" [MEM 9/13].

In response to lawsuit brought by Israeli gov't, state supreme court in New York issues temporary order blocking U.S. publication of Victor Ostrosky and Claire Hoy's book By Way of Deception. A Devastating Insider's Portrait of the Mossad [NYT, WT, WP 9/13].

Pres. Asad, preparing for meeting with Sec. Baker on 9/14, says U.S. troops will leave Saudi Arabia when crisis is over: "The problem now is not the presence of foreign troops in the gulf. The problem is Iraq's invasion of Kuwait.... When it is over I am sure that all foreign troops will withdraw" [NYT, WT 9/13].

In Mecca, International Islamic Conference attended by 350 Islamic scholars from 80 countries ends after 3 days of heated debate; communique calls for Iraqi withdrawal from Kuwait, finds foreign troop presence in Saudi Arabia legitimate under current circumstances but emphasizes that they must leave region as soon as Iraq withdraws; calls for creation of permanent Pan-Islamic force for future conflicts  [SPA 9/13 in FBIS 9/13; LAT, WP 9/14].

On tour of Middle East, Chrmn. of U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff, Gen. Colin Powell, arrives in Riyadh on 2-day visit to Gulf [WAKH 9/13, 9/14, SPA 9/13 in FBIS 9/14].

Speaking before European Parliament, Italian F.M. Andreotti says Gulf crisis could make more difficult a solution to Palestinian and Lebanese conflicts; he repeats EC's support for UN resolution demanding Israeli withdrawal from W. Bank and Gaza [MEM 9/13].

EC passes resolution 301 to 37 condemning Iraqi invasion, calling for withdrawal, but stating that only diplomatic solution can resolve crisis [MEM 9/13].

Pres. Bush accepts offer from Baghdad to speak on Iraqi television, says 10-15 minute speech would provide "real opportunity" to explain why he has sent U.S. troops to Saudi Arabia [LAT, WP 9/7].

Iraq acquiesces to U.S. demand that U.S. consular be given access to American wounded by Iraqi gunfire in Kuwait [LAT, WP 9/7].

Jewish and Roman Catholic leaders, meeting in Prague, agree to forge closer relationship and combat anti-Semitism in E. Europe [LAT 9/7].

UN acknowledges shortcomings in its relief efforts for tens of thousands of refugees who fled Kuwait and Iraq for Jordan [LAT 9/7].

Saudi Arabia announces it will cover virtually all of the hundreds of millions of dollars in monthly operating costs of U.S. forces; Saudis will also contribute several billion dollars in aid to Middle East nations that have joined the coalition against Iraq [NYT, WP 9/7; MET 9/18].

Several nations, including China, India, and Tunisia, say they are considering sending emergency food and medicine to Iraq despite embargo [NYT 9/7].

Britain announces it will send additional forces to the Gulf region, and will provide about $4 million in aid to refugee relief organizations [NYT, WP 9/7].

Pres. Bush telephones Pres. Asad to discuss Gulf crisis; Asad also meets with delegation from European Parliament [DDS 9/6 in FBIS 9/7].

Qatar deports 15 additional Palestinians; this is 3d group of deportees [RAY 9/9 in FBIS 9/10].

Sec. Baker meets in Jeddah with King Fahd to discuss Gulf crisis [WP 9/7; RTS 9/7 in FBIS 9/10].

Ending 2-day meeting in Saudi Arabia to discuss crisis, foreign ministers of 6-member Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) demand immediate Iraqi withdrawal from Kuwait [SPA, RIDS 9/5 in FBIS 9/6; MET 9/18].

General strike called by Hamas is observed in Gaza Strip; commercial strike is observed in parts of W. Bank [FJ 9/10].

In testimony to House Foreign Affairs Committee, Sec. Baker calls for creation of U.S.-led NATO-style security structure in Middle East to prevent renewed Iraqi aggression even if present crisis ends without warfare (cf. 9/5) [LAT, NYT, WP, MEM 9/5; CSM 9/6].

Speaking in Vladivostok, Soviet F.M. Shevardnadze calls for international conference on the Middle East that would include the Gulf crisis, the Arab-Israeli conflict, and Lebanon [WT, WP 9/5]; Israel sharply rejects the idea [JPI 9/15].

Washington Post reports that U.S. commander in Saudi Arabia Gen. H. Norman Schwarzkopf complained to Defense Dep't and White House about Saudi Lt. Gen. Khaled bin Sultan's remarks on 8/29 that any decision to use U.S. forces deployed in Kingdom would have to follow consultations between King Fahd and Pres. Bush. Bush conveyed to Saudi ambassador "military concern that U.S. forces be unquestionably under U.S. command," and ambassador reiterated what Saudis contend was original agreement between Fahd and Def. Sec. Cheney that U.S. forces were invited to Kingdom to defend Saudi Arabia from attack by Iraq [WP, MEM 9/4].

Cheney says U.S. would "consult closely" with Saudis before launching offensive action from Saudi territory, but stops short of saying whether Saudi approval would be required [MEM 9/5].

Bush admin. begins asking economic allies for at least $25 billion to help defray American military expenses and support countries that have been hurt by embargo on Iraq and Kuwait [LAT, WP 9/5].

Israeli finance minister Yitzhak Modai says if U.S. forgives Egypt's debt, Israel will demand that most of its $4.6 billion debt also be erased [LAT 9/5; MET 9/18].

Qatar expels more than 70 Palestinian families, including several PLO members, apparently because of Palestinian support for Iraq [NYT 9/5; MET 9/18].

Media report of growing crisis in Jordan as hundreds of thousands of refugees flee Kuwait and Iraq for the Hashemite kingdom [NYT, WP 9/5; MET 9/18].

As'ad al-As'ad, ass't sec.-gen. of Arab League, is named as acting sec.-gen. until replacement for Chedli Klibi is determined [TDS 9/4 in FBIS 9/5].

Arab foreign ministers and representatives open 2-day meeting in Cairo; in attendance are Egypt, Morocco, Syria, Lebanon, Djibouti, Somalia, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, UAE, Bahrian, Oman, and Libya (cf. 9/1) [MENA 8/30 in FBIS 8/31; NYT 8/31; MET 9/11].

Claiming "shape of post-cold-war world" is at issue, Pres. Bush says he will send Sec. Baker, Sec. Brady overseas to ask other nations to help pay multibillion-dollar cost of military operations and sanctions in Middle East [NYT, LAT, WP, WT 8/31].

Iraq moves some women and children hostages who had been placed at strategic locations in outlying areas as potential shields to Baghdad in preparation for being allowed to leave Iraq [NYT, LAT, WT, WP 8/31; MET 9/11].

In 1st criticism of U.S. military forces in Gulf, Soviet Union asks whether U.S. presence might be intended as permanent foothold in region [NYT, LAT 8/31].

U.S. officials report the CIA is training Kuwaiti resistance fighters at bases in Saudi Arabia [LAT, WP 8/31].

Palestinians in O.T. stage general strike to protest U.S. military presence in Gulf [MET 9/11].

Reacting to planned U.S. sale of $2.2 billion in military hardware to Saudi Arabia, Israeli Foreign Ministry demands that U.S. ensure Israel remains the dominant power in Middle East by providing additional military aid [WT, WP 8/31; MET 9/11].

Senior U.S. naval officer says U.S. warships are interrogating daily up to 75 commercial shipping vessels in Gulf; shipping has declined "dramatically" since sanctions were announced [WP 8/31].

Pres. Saddam Hussein says he will not withdraw forces from Kuwait unless "all issues of occupation" in Middle East are resolved, beginning with unconditional Israeli withdrawal from O.T. [LAT, WP 8/13].

Arafat sends messages to heads of permanent member states of UN Sec.Council [INA 8/13 in FBIS 8/14].

DFLP, PFLP, and PFLP-GC level sharp criticism at U.S. for its military presence in Saudi Arabia [BDS 8/12 in FBIS 8/13].

Israeli police arrest Jewish woman and 14-year-old boy in connection with killing of E. Jerusalem Arab by Jewish mob [WT 8/13].

Knesset appoints Zalman Shoval to be ambassador to U.S.; Shoval is member of Rafi Ometz party that agreed to join P.M. Shamir's gov't. in return for U.S. appointment [WT, NYT 8/13].

Second Red Cross worker, held hostage since 10/6/89, is freed in S.Lebanon; Elio Erriquez is released by Palestinian Revolutionary Squads group [LAT 8/13; WP, NYT 8/14].

Knesset defeats motions of no-confidence against gov't. by 60-55 margin, 4 MKs abstain and 1 is absent. Motions were brought by Labor and 3 small parties over immigrants' housing problems [JDS 8/1 in FBIS 8/2].

Washington Times reports that growing internal problems have caused USSR to cut back its Middle East role, pulling advisers out of Syria and cooling relations with PLO [WT 8/1].

5-member committee concludes arrangements for moving Arab League headquarters to Cairo; transfer to take place from October 1990 to June 1991 [MENA 8/1 in FBIS 8/2].

Israeli gunboat shoots, sinks rubber dinghy off Lebanese coast, 2 Arabs are killed; Israeli military states "terrorists" were heading towards waters off Israel's "security zone" when intercepted [JDS 8/ 1 in FBIS 8/1; WP 8/2; JPI 8/11].

10 people are killed, 50 wounded as Fateh-backed Amal forces clash with Hizballah troops in S.Lebanon [NYT 8/ 2]; intra-Palestinian fighting between 2 wings of Fateh takes place in 'Ayn al-Hulwah, S.Lebanon; at least 7 are killed [IHD 8/1 in FBIS 8/2; WT 8/2].

Following new defense ministry policy, Israeli army has not been seen in Rafa district in Gaza since late May; reports say violence in Rafa has stopped and Palestinian flags fly from almost every high point [NYT 7/13].

Knesset rejects motion to investigate charges that former D.M. Yitzhak Rabin ordered soldiers to break bones of Palestinians at start of intifada. Charges stem from admission by many soldiers that they were following orders in beating Palestinians [NYT 7/12].

In Cairo on part of Middle East visit, Chrmn. of Joint Chiefs of Staff Colin Powell tells Egypt and other U.S. aid recipients that Congress is pushing to hold down arms assistance. Powell meets with Pres. Mubarak [WT 7/12]; and later he flies to Amman to meet with King Hussein [ATS 7/11 in FBIS 7/12].

Israeli foreign ministry turns down compromise solution for expediting $400 million in U.S. loan guarantees; solution offered by ass't. sec. of state Dennis Ross stipulated Israel would receive funding in exchange for guarantee that money would be invested within green line, and that all expenditures would be documented for U.S. review [MAA 7/8 in FBIS 7/9].

After considering 6/28 letter from P.M. Shamir to Pres. Bush, admin. officials conclude that another attempto organize Israeli-Palestinian talks may be justified [NYT 7/8; MEM 7/9].

USSR informs Arab nations that its diplomats in Israel will visit Jewish settdements in O.T. to investigate if Soviet Jews are living there [KUNA 7/7 in FBIS 7/9]; USSR sends message to PLO conveying its anxiety over possible deterioration of Middle East situation [ADS 7/7 in FBIS 7/9].

In Ta'izz, Yemen, Pres. Mubarak, PLO chrmn. Arafat, and Pres. Salih meet to discuss Palestinian developments since suspension of U.S.-PLO dialogue [MENA 7/7 in FBIS 7/9].

Israeli radio reports 60 families of Soviet immigrants totalling about 160 people have settled in town of Qatzrin in Golan Heights in past few weeks, but additional immigration there has been halted due to housing shortage [JDS 7/7 in FBIS 7/9].

Pres. Asad is quoted as saying a return to 1973 Geneva conference, which Syria did not attend, would provide "an adequate opportunity to achieve ajust peace in the Middle East" [MEM 7/2].

P.M. Shamir appeals to Pres. Mubarak to work with Israel towards Middle East peace, and calls for meeting of Israeli, Egyptian, and U.S. foreign ministers [WT 7/3].

8 Palestinians were killed during June, the lowest total since intifada began; Palestinian and Israeli sources attribute tally in part to new policy of army restraint under D.M. Moshe Arens [NYT 7/3].

UN envoy Jean-Claude Amrie leaves Jerusalem for New York after having extended his visit "a number of days" for additional meetings [JPD 7/3 in FBIS 7/3].

D.M. Moshe Arens authorizes use of new punitive measure that permits "conditional deportation" of intifada leaders from their homes to supervised locations elsewhere in O.T. [HAA 7/2 in FBIS 7/ 3].

Arab poet Shafiq Habib is released from house arrest, where he was confined 2 weeks ago for inciting violence in his writings [JDS 7/2 in FBIS 7/3].

Israeli Arab and Communist Party member Tewfik Toubi resigns from his Knesset seat; he was Israel's longest-serving MK [MET 7/10].

Heads of state of 12 EC countries end 2-day summit in Dublin, issue statement on Middle East opposing Israeli settlement policy, calling for international conference, and for strengthening trade links with O.T. [TDS 6/27 in FBIS 6/28; MEM 6/28].

Jean-Claude Amrie meets with 5 Palestinian academicians, is presented with 12- point memorandum outlining situation in O.T. [RMC 6/26 in FBIS 6/27].

Internal IDF paper recommends that chief of staff and defense establishment change criteria for reporting incidents in O.T. so that daily occurrences are more accurately portrayed [HAA 6/26 in FBIS 6/26].

Egypt's F.M. Esmat Abdel Meguid meets with Pres. Bush in Washington, no "breakthroughs" on peace process are reported, but U.S. interest in reviving process is affirmed [WP 6/28].

Bethlehem Mayor Elias Frayj meets with D.M. Moshe Arens to discuss situation in O.T. [JAA 6/26 in FBIS 6/28].

F.M. David Levy rejects Sec. Baker's formula for Israeli-Palestinian negotiation, echoes Shamir in saying talks cannot include deportees or E. Jerusalem residents [JPD 6/27 in FBIS 6/27].

B'Tselem issues report "Violence against Minors in Police Detention," which claims teenagers interrogated by police and Shin Bet agents are routinely beaten, chained in awkward positions or in "punishment cells" for hours at a time [JPD 6/26 in FBIS 6/27].

Syria rejects invitation from P.M. Shamir for Pres. Asad to go to Jerusalem for peace talks, calls the offer "a trick" [NYT 6/27].

Sec. of State James Baker tells reporters there can be no dialogue between Israel and Palestinians from O.T. without "acquiescence" of PLO, as evidenced by Israel's vain attempts to find PLO alternative for 22 years [MEM 6/22].

Arab League issues statement saying suspension of U.S.-PLO dialogue was not in best interests of Middle East peace, adds that U.S. will be held responsible for deterioration of situation inside O.T. [KUNA 6/21 in FBIS 6/22].

Jean-Claude Amie, UN special envoy, arrives in Israel to begin fact-finding mission [MEM 6/21; JDS 6/22 in FBIS 6/ 25; MET 7/3].

In television interview, Nelson Mandela describes Yasir Arafat as "a comrade in arms" and says it would be "a grave mistake" to change his view of Arafat "on the basis of the interests of the Jewish community" [WP 6/22].

PLO Exec. Committee, meeting in Baghdad, issues statement saying U.S. decision to end dialogue constitutes "a challenge" to Arab League, calls on Arab states to implement resolutions adopted at Baghdad summit in May [WP, LAT 6/22; BVP 6/21, DUS 6/22 in FBIS 6/22]; further Arab reaction is mixed [NYT, LAT 6/22].

French Pres. Francois Mitterrand tells reporters that U.S. should display same firmness with Israel as it has with PLO: "One must be able to speak to Israel and the PLO at the same time. . .If steps were taken that would permit speaking to Israel with the same firmness, that would be a good thing" [WP 6/22].

Senate Foreign Relations Committe unanimously approves commendation of Pres. Bush for suspending U.S.-PLO dialogue; entire Senate is expected to approve commendation soon [WP, WT 6/ 22].

New York Times reports of emergence of "tent towns" in Israel; mass immigration has driven up rent prices and housing is in such short supply that rents are beyond reach of young Israeli families, who are forced to live in tents. Soviet immigrants receive gov't. subsidies and are more able to afford higher rents [NYT 6/22].

Israel's new gov't. holds 1st formal meeting, does not discuss Middle East peace plans; officials say gov't. hopes "within a matter of weeks" to discuss deadlocked peace process [IDF 6/17 in FBIS 6/18; WT 6/18].

At least 3 people are killed, 15 wounded in large-scale fighting inTyre, S.Lebanon between Palestinian factions. Members of Abu Nidal's Fateh Revolutionary Council are driven from Rashidiyah refugee camp by FRC dissidents, backed by Fateh forces loyal to Arafat [NYT, WT 6/18].

In speech to UN Sec.Council in Geneva, Arafat urges that UN international force be sent to O.T. to protect Palestinians [NYT, LAT 5/26; RMC 5/25 in FBIS 5/29].

Socialist Intemational ends meeting in Cairo; Middle East statement for first time says establishment of Palestinian state is step toward Middle East peace. Israel's representative, Shimon Peres, does not vote [MENA 5/23 in FBIS 5/24; MEM 5/24; RPP 5/25 in FBIS 6/5].

U.S. Senate completes congressional action on bill containing $400 million in housing guarantees for Soviet Jews; no further vote is planned until admin. is satisfied money will not be used to settle immigrants beyond green line [MEM 5/25].

Gazans enter 5th day of curfew, many parts of W. Bank also remain under curfew; over 1 million Palestinians are confined to their homes [MEM 5/25].

Appearing on Israeli television, Shamir says that if UN votes to send observer force to O.T., it should know that "this decision would not be implemented, as many other UN decisions against Israel [have not been]" [WP 5/25]; Yitzhak Rabin believes Israel must oppose idea of UN observers, says "It is inconceivable that we, who observe international law and the Fourth Geneva Convention. . should accept the supervision of an element which. . .has participated in almost no peaceful process" [JDS 5/24 in FBIS 5/25; MET 6/5].

Bush admin., in effort to avoid confrontation with Israel, says it will discuss possibility of UN observer force in O.T., but objects to any permanent UN presence [LAT 5/25].

Members of House Foreign Affairs subcommittee on Europe and the Middle East blast State Dept's. 3/19 report saying PLO has honored its commitment to renounce terrorism, call report a "whitewash and a pack of lies"; ass't.sec. of state John Kelly defends report [WP 5/25J.

PLO Exec. Committee member Mahmud Abbas meets in Moscow with Soviet F.M. Eduard Shevardnadze to discuss past week's violence in O.T. [TASS 5/24; KUNA 5/25 in FBIS 5/25].

Head of Israeli Army's Central Command, Maj. Gen. Yitzhak Mordekhay, meets with 24 W. Bank Palestinians to explain Army curfews and actions following 5/20 killings. Palestinians are top officials in education and commerce [JDS 5/25 in FBIS 5/25].

5-member Soviet delegation arrives in Israel to investigate violence in O.T.; head of group, Mikhail Kapitsa, accuses Israel of acting like "an elephant in a china shop" [MEM 5/25; MET 6/5]; Bernard Kouchner, French minister of state for humanitarian aid, also arrives for fact-finding tour, says he is "deeply depressed" by conditions in Gaza [MEM 5/25; FJ 5/28]. 

Egypt's Pres. Hosni Mubarak meets with U.S. Sec. of State James Baker in Egypt's embassy in Moscow to discuss Middle East events [CDS 5/16 in FBIS 5/ 17; MEM 5/17].

Palestinian leaders from O.T. present Israel with list of 17 demands aimed at creating atmosphere conducive to negotiations [YA 5/17 in FBIS 5/18].

Israeli peace activist Abbie Nathan, returning to Israel after meeting with Yasir Arafat in Tunis, is arrested for violating law prohibiting meeting PLO members. Nathan was released from jail last February after serving 6 months for previous meeting with Arafat (cf. 5/17) [MEM 5/16, 5/18].

Asharq al-Awsat, citing Palestinian sources, reports PLO has begun regrouping its military forces. Last week, 1,600- 1,800 fighters began move from Jordan to Iraq, while some units in Algeria and Sudan will move to Libya and North Yemen [MEM 5/16].

Israel Central Bureau of Statistics reports economic slowdown for 1st quarter of 1990; cites more unemployment, fewer exports, increased imports, and growing consumption as reasons UPD 5/17 in FBIS 5/17].

Shimon Peres tells reporters he has majority of votes in Knesset, enough to form new gov't. [NYT, WP, WT, LAT 4/ 5, CSM 4/6].

In Paris, former Pres. Jimmy Carter meets with PLO Chrmn. Arafat, French Pres. Mitterrand in effort to revue stalled Middle East peace plan [WP, LAT 4/5].

Israeli helicopter gunships attack Rashidiyeh camp in S. Lebanon, at least 5 are wounded [MET 4/17-23].

Feuding between activists from PFLP and Fateh injures 8 Palestinians in W. Bank village of Awarta [MET 4/17-23].

Iraq's F.M. Tareq Aziz tells Arab ministers meeting in Amman that Iraq will destroy its chemical weapons if Israel does same and signs 1968 nuclear non-proliferation treaty [WT 4/5].

Libyan leader Qadhafi tells Tripoli Radio foreign hostages and prisoners of conscience should be freed to mark beginning of Ramadan [LAT 4/5].

Israel launches Earth-orbit satellite 1 day after Iraq's leader warned he would use chemical weapons against Israel. Labor party leader Peres says satellite should tell Saddam Hussein "that if he wants to deal with Israel, he should look for means other than the military one" [NYT, WP, LAT, WT 4/4; JDS, IDF 4/3 in FBIS 4/4].

Israeli human rights organization "In the Image" reports IDF soldiers killed fewer Palestinians in first quarter of 1990 than in any 3-month period since intifada began. 30 Palestinians were killed by IDF; 35 Palestinians were killed by fellow Palestinians over the same period, according to group [NYT 4/4].

Saddam Hussein's 4/2 statement angers Pres. Bush, who says "This is no time to be talking about using chemical or biological weapons. This is no time to be escalating tensions in the Middle East" [LAT 4/4].

Two small religious parties, Shas and Agudat Israel, suggesthey would not join Lidud-led coalition as long as Shamir is party leader [NYT 3/ 17]; Los Angeles Times reports growing pressure on Shamir to resign [LAT 3/17].

Senate Democratic Leader George J. Mitchell (D-ME) sharply attacks Pres. Bush for "heavy-handed blunder," that "contributed to the recent political crisis in Israel." Mitchell is referring to Bush's 3/3 statement [LAT 3/17].

In letter dated 3/16 from Sec. Baker to Rep. Mel Levine (D-CA), Baker softens U.S. stand on Israeli settlements in E. Jerusalem, writing "Clearly, Jews and others can live where they want, East or West, and the city must remain undivided" [NYT 3/13].

Arafat meets in Tunis with Israeli peace activist Abie Nathan, who spent 4 months in prison for previous meeting with Arafat [BVP 3/17 in FBIS 3/20].

Jimmy Carter arrives in Jordan from Syria for talks about Middle East [MET 3/27-4/2].

In London, King Hussein meets with PLO advisor Bassam Abu Sharif [WAKH 3/16 in FBIS 3/19].

Israeli military reports killing 3 Palestinians, allegedly DFLP members, inside Israel's "security zone" in S. Lebanon [MET 3/27-4/2].

Confirming 3/8 statements by Davy Levy and Ruth Kaminker, Israeli housing ministry announces construction of 4,000 apartments for Soviet Jews; 2,000 for W. Bank, 2,000 for E. Jerusalem [LAT 3/10].

PLO Exec. Committee member Mahmud Abbas reports Palestinian command has agreed to stop making public statements about Middle East peace efforts at this time, due to political turmoil in Israel [ITT 3/9 in FBIS 3/13].

U.S. denounces as "bellicose rhetoric" Pres. Asad's 3/8 statements pledging to continue war against Israel, states Asad should be "committing himself to peace, not war" [LAT 3/10].

Palestinians in O.T. observe general strike to mark start of 28th month of intifada [LAT 3/10].

In an unusually deep foray into Lebanon, Israeli warplanes bomb PLFP-GC bases north of Beirut killing 1, wounding 2 others [IDF, BDS 3/9 in FBIS 3/9; MET 3/20-26].

Meeting with Moshe Arens, Sec. Baker says it is time for Israel to accept his compromise formula for opening talks between Israelis and Palestinians [NYT, WP, LAT 2/24].

In letter to Jerusalem's International Center for Peace in the Middle East, Yasir Arafat writes PLO has "once more leaned over backward and approves the idea of a dialogue between representatives of the Israeli government and representatives of the Palestinian people" [NYT 2/ 23; LAT 2/24]; message also states emigrating Jews should be allowed to choose their destination, providing they do not displace another people [JTS 2/23, HAA 2/25 in FBIS 2/26].

Unnamed Capitol Hill sources say USSR's decision to bar direct commercial flights to Israel may spark congressional effort to maintain U.S.-Soviet trade restrictions [WP 2/24].

W. Bank Civil Admin. recently issued new regulation forbidding camp residents to build two or more stories on any house among first 3 rows adjacent to main Israeli highways. Several injunctions banning construction are issued, including one halting UNRWA's $250,000 community center in Duhayshah [HAA 2/23 in FBIS 2/23].

Israeli jets bomb PFLP base in Kfar Jara, S. Lebanon; no injuries [JDS 2/23 in FBIS 2/23; MET 3/6-12].

Social/Economic/Political

Arab World: PLO ambassador to Tunisia, and Arab League Gen. Sec. meet with U.S. ambassador to Tunisia to discuss Middle East situation [FBIS 2/9].

Other Countries: East Germany agrees to pay reparations to Jewish victims. P.M. Hans Modrow says the gov't. recognizes "the responsibility of the entire German people for the past." The amount of money paid will be determined in negotiations with Israel [NYT 2/9].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Arab Local Councils inside the green line begin strike to protest failure of Israeli Ministry of Interior to provide funds it had pledged to give the councils [FJ 2/12].

20-year-old Palestinian dies of gunshot wounds received 2/7 [FBIS 2/8; FJ 2/12].

3 Hebron-area house are sealed by IDF on grounds that occupants belonged to popular committees [FBIS 2/9].

Intense clashes between IDF and Gazans continue for third consecutive day. Middle East Times reports 2 Palestinians killed, and at least 87 wounded, mostly from Rafah [MET 2/20].

IDF reports beginning use of experimental "mini-gravel launcher," a jeepmounted cannon that fires egg-sized rocks 75 meters. The canon can shoot 600 rocks per minute [FBIS 2/8].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Intifada leadership has admitted to "losing a measure of control" over activities on the ground [LAT 9/4].

Other Countries: At the Nonaligned Movement meeting in Belgrade, Arafat warns of a "total explosion" in the Middle East if Palestinian peace initiatives are ignored [MET 9/1].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: At least 6 Palestinians are wounded in clashes with Israeli forces in the W. Bank [FBIS 9/6].

Arab World: In second incident in a week, IDF forceshoot, kill man in "security zone" in S. Lebanon. 2 others escape [FBIS 9/5].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli troops shoot, kill 22-year-old Palestinian in Silwad, wound 2 others [FJ 6/26]. In Jerusalem a 64-year-old Israeli is found stabbed to death; police think he might have been killed by Palestinians [NYT 6/23]. In W. Bank 5 more Palestinians are shot, injured. In Gaza Strip Israeli troops shoot, wound 12 Palestinians [FJ 6/26]. American director of Save the Children Chris George is abducted in Gaza; kidnappers demand release of jailed members of Fateh, Hamas [MET 7.4]. Israel arrests 30 residents of Silwad [FBIS 6/22].

Other Countries: Secretary of State Baker says U.S. plans to sell military equipment to Saudia Arabia, other Middle East countries [LAT 6/23].

Social/Economic/Political

Other Countries: UNESCO condemns closure of schools in O.T. [FJ 6/26]. The Socialist International calls on all parties in Middle East to participate in international peace conference; Israel's Labor party boycotts meeting because PLO was invited to send observer [FJ 6/26, MET 7/4].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: In Nablus 50- year-old Palestinian suspected of collaboration is found dead [FBIS 6/21, MET 7/4]. At least 5 Palestinians are shot, injured during clashes in W. Bank. In Gaza Strip soldiers shoot 20 Palestinians during demonstrations [FJ 6/26].

Arab World: Israeli jets bomb PFLP-GC base 15 miles south of Beirut killing 1 Arab, wounding 6 [NYT 6/22].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Nablus remains under curfew for 3rd consecutive day [FJ 4/24].

Other Countries: In Paris King Hussein meets with French president Mitterand to discuss Middle East [FBIS 4/17]. Shamir makes surprise visit to Hungary, discusses bilateral relations [FBIS 4/18].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: In Duhayshah 13- year-old Palestinian is killed during demonstration. In Jabalya camp troops open fire killing 12-year-old Palestinian. In E. Jerusalem 50-year-old Gaza resident dies from head wounds received 2 weeks earlier [FBIS 4/17, FJ 4/24]. Palestinian dies attempting to hang flag from electric pole. In Abassan troops shoot, wound 4 Palestinians. At least 10 other Palestinians are injured throughout Gaza [FJ 4/24]

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Palestinians observe general strike in O.T. [FBIS 4/10].

Other Countries: President Bush reiterates opinion that "that the provisions of Security Council resolution 242 and 338 have not been fulfilled. The territory that has been ceded for peace [the Sinai] is not the end. It simply isn't" [LAT 4/8]. ABC-Washington Post poll indicates that majority of Americans believe that Israel should negotiate directly with PLO and that peace in Middle East is unattainable without such talks [WP 4/7].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Following Friday prayers large demonstration erupts at al-Aqsa mosque; 4 Palestinian are injured, 37 are arrested, 8 Israelis are injured. At least 10 Palestinians are injured in West Bank. In Khan Yunis soldiers open fire, injuring 2 Palestinians [FJ 4/10]. Members of group of progressive Jewish women praying at Westem Wall are punched, bitten by group of ultra-orthodox women [LAT 4/8].

Social/Economic/Political

Arab World: King Hussein of Jordan arrives in Baghdad to discuss international affairs with Iraqi pres. Saddam Husayn. Jordan lifts ban on importation of olive oil from O.T.; decision was made after Jordanian farmers sold their olive crops [MET 4/11].

Other Countries: Pres. Bush declares he envisions Middle East peace that would entail "end of the occupation [of the West Bank and Gaza Strip] and achievement of Palestinian political rights" [WP 4/8], that "a properly structured international conference could play a useful role" in Middle East peace process [WSJ, LAT 4/4].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli soldiers shoot, kill 20-year-old Palestinian at Am'ari refugee camp [NYT 4/4, FJ 4/10]. In Jenin troops raid village; clinics treat at least 10 Palestinians for injuries. In Khan Yunis collaborator is stabbed; troopshoot, injure 4 Palestinians running roadblock taking collaborator to hospital [FJ 4/3].

Arab World: Iraq says that it is not developing nuclear weapons and that it will retaliate if Israel strikes Iraqi targets [WP 4/4].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: D.M. Yitzhaq Rabin announces Fateh has refrained from attacking Israeli positions [WP 3/29].

Arab World: Saudi Arabia's King Fahd and Egypt's Pres. Mubarak meet in Egypt, discuss Middle East peace, bilateral relations [FBIS 3/29]. Chedli Klibi is reelected chairman of Arab League for 3rd 5-year term [FBIS 3/29]. PLO Executive Committee nominates Arafat to be president of State of Palestine [FBIS 3/29]. In Cairo, Arafat meets with leaders of Muslim Brotherhood [FBIS 4/5].

Other Countries: French Pres. Mitterand announces he will meet with PLO chairman Arafat [FBIS 3/29, FJ 4/3].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: 19-year-old Palestinian from Salim dies from wounds received 3/13 [FJ 4/3]. At least 10 Palestinians are injured during clashes in O.T. In Balata 3 women are treated after receiving cut wounds on the head during clashes with troops [FBIS 3/29].