The Palestine Chronology

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli police forensic experts are "reasonably sure" al-Fajr journalist Hasan 'Abd al-Halim was killed by a bomb [JP 12/24].

Arab World: Pres. Mubarak warns that Yasir Arafat has "one or two months" to accept UN resolutions 242 and 338, otherwise King Hussein may lose patience and negotiate separate peace with Israel [WP 12/24]. Arafat deputy Salah Khalaf (Abu lyad) confirms PLO has been given 2 months to accept 242 and 338, says PLO will never do so [MG 12/24].

Other Countries: National Assoc. of Arab-Americans (NAAA) calls for investigation into U.S. justice Dept. handling of espionage allegations made 7 years ago against former Senate aide Stephen D. Bryen, now asst. defense secretary with top-secret security clearance [LAT, JTA 12/24].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli is shot, wounded in Hebron market; soldiers shoot 2 Palestinians in aftermath, curfew city, arrest 3 dozen Palestinians [FJ 1/3]. 

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Asst. Sec. of State Richard Murphy meets in Jerusalem with 9 leading Palestinians from the occupied territories in what is described as "routine" discussion of peace prospects. The 9 include Zafir al-Masri, Rashad al-Shawa, lliyas Furayj, and Hanna Siniora [JP, JTA 12/5; FJ 12/6]. Israeli authorities issue deportation order against Yunis Jabir Rajub from Dura village, near Hebron, stating he has been working for Abu Musa faction of Fateh since his release in 5/20 prisoner exchange [JP 12/5]. Avi Tzur and Claude Malka, former aides to former Agriculture Min. Michael Dekel, are arrested in connection with investigation into fraudulent West Bank land sales [JP 12/5]. Pres. Chaim Herzog addresses Israeli Communist party convention in Haifa, the first Israeli president to do so [LT 12/5].

Arab World: Boston Globe reports PLO leadership decided in last week's meeting that fighting units must now seek approval from PLO military council before conducting any operations; attacks will only be carried out in Israel and occupied territories [BG 12/4].

Other Countries: World Jewish Congress launches global campaign to persuade Vatican to give formal diplomatic recognition to Israel [JTA 12/5; WP 12/7]

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli military destroys house in Jaba village of alleged member of guerrilla cell responsible for several attacks in Hebron area, according to military sources [JP 11/18]. Military seals homes of 3 Palestinians in Sa'ir village who allegedly fired at civilian and military vehicles in the West Bank, according to military sources [JP 11/19]. 9 Palestinians are arrested in Aylut village, near Nazareth, in confrontation with Israeli authorities over attempt to confiscate their land [FJ 11/22]. Israeli Cabinet sends message to Reagan-Gorbachev summit meeting asking them to agree on allowing Soviet Jews to emigrate [LT, CT 11/18].

Arab World: King Hussein and Pres. Mubarak arrive in Oman for talks [FT 11/18]. Syrian Vice Pres. Abd al-Halim Khaddam states the Jordanian-PLO peace plan of last February is "dead" [JP 11/17]. Toronto Star reports Yasir Arafat has appealed to Syria to join the Jordanian-Palestinian M.E. peace initiative, welcomed Syria's rapprochement with Jordan [TS 11/17; WP 11/18]. Shi'ite Muslim group the "Organization of the Oppressed of the Earth" states it will hold 4 Lebanese Jews hostage until more than 300 Arab prisoners held at Khiam prison camp in S. Lebanon are released [PI 11/18]. Israeli military states SLA maintains Khiam camp, not Israel [JP 11/19]. 

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli govt. officials state Jordan has provisionally agreed to be involved in choosing and appointing Palestinian mayors for some of the largest towns in the West Bank, including Nablus, Hebron, Ramallah, and al-Bireh [LT 10/30]. Birzeit U. and Bethlehem U. students demonstrate against deportation orders issued 10/28. Another demonstration takes place outside Min. of Defense building in Tel Aviv; group of professors from Tel Aviv U. and Hebrew U. issue statement calling for cancellation of orders [JP 10/31]. Green Patrol evict 40 Bedouin families from Negev land, cutting down their tents [JP 10/31].

Arab World: PLO promises Jordan it will avoid repetition of incidents like Achille Lauro hijacking or "any act that would hurt the 11 February agreement" [NYT 10/31]. New York Times reports Pres. Amin Jumayyil of Lebanon is trying to open negotiations with Israel on S. Lebanon and has sent former For. Min. Elie Salem to Damascus for talks with Syrian For. Min. Faruq al-Shar' on the subject [NYT 10/31].

Other Countries: Israeli and U.S. officials state some Arab nations, including Jordan and Egypt, have recently urged the Soviet Union to restore diplomatic ties with Israel as a way to help promote peace talks [NYT 10/31]. Israel Radio reports Hungary has agreed to open diplomatic mission in Israel, will permit Israeli rep. to work from a foreign embassy in Budapest [JP 10/31].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli forces demolish homes of 5 members of Palestinian cell captured or killed in hills south of Hebron 10/6. Surif village placed under curfew during demolitions [JP 10/9].

Arab World: Two senior PLO officials leave for Cairo to help Egyptian officials negotiate with the Achille Lauro hijackers [LAT 10/9]. Arafat tells Italian P.M. Bettino Craxi he "entirely condemns" the hijacking and does not know who is responsible [MG 10/9]. The Damascus-based faction of the Palestine Liberation Front, headed by Tala'at Ya'qub, denounces the hijacking of the Achille Lauro as piracy. An anonymous caller to Agence France Presse says the Abu al-'Abbas faction of the Palestine Liberation Front, allied with Fateh, is responsible for the hijacking [NYT 10/10].

Other Countries: U.S. seeks to obtain worldwide guarantee that no country will allow the Achille Lauro to dock in its port while the hijackers are still in control. Italy rejects use of force to try to rescue passengers on Achille Lauro [LAT 10/9]. Dutch Def. Min. Job de Ruiter announces Dutch troops will be withdrawn from UN peacekeeping force deployed north of Lebanese-Israeli border because of "concern for their safety" [MG 10/9].

Military Action

Arab World: Achille Lauro steams toward Syria, then Cyprus; is refused entry at both. Ship retums to Egyptian coast, hijackers begin negotiations with Egyptians [NYT 10/13].

Other Countries: U.S. guided missile destroyer Scott cuts short shore leave in Haifa to monitor hijacked Italian cruise ship Achille Lauro in Eastem Mediterranean [NYT 10/9].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Jamal 'Awad, 18, dies of wounds sustained 9/18 when Israeli soldiers fired at him for reportedly refusing to stop at a checkpoint [FJ 9/27]. 'Umar Shihab, 5, of Gaza is critically wounded by bullets randomly fired by Israeli soldiers near where he is playing [FJ 9/27]. Marwan Jamjum, 20, is shot by Israeli soldiers in the center of Hebron [FJ 9/27]. Women relatives of Palestinian prisoners in Asqalan prison begin hunger strike at Gaza Red Cross offices topressure Israeli authorities into letting them know the condition of their relatives inside the prison [FJ 9/27]. Inquiry ordered by Israel's military chief of staff to investigate claims that Israeli soldiers ordered Palestinian to kiss donkey's backside, and other such harassments, finds the incidents to be "a few isolated cases" which will be dealt with by the commanding officers ofthe offenders [NYT, JP 9/24].

Other Countries: Jerusalem Post reports Sierra Leone has established Israel Friendship Society, headed by deputy minister of transport and communications [JP 9/24].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli Meir Braverman shoots and kills mentally ill Hasan Husayn Mashara in Jerusalem after latter allegedly threatened Braverman's wife [JTA 9/27].

Arab World: Jerusalem Post reports PLO Executive Committee, meeting in Baghdad, agreed to accelerate armed struggle in occupied territories [JP 9/24]. Two katyusha rockets land in Galilee, causing slight property damage; rockets were fired from north of S. Lebanon security zone [JP 9/26].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli authorities close al-Manar press office in Jerusalem for 6 months, following raid on the office and seizure of documents. Israelis claim it serves as a front for the DFLP [JP 9/10; FJ 9/13]. Eleven Palestinians go on trial before a military court in Gaza, charged with killing 3 suspected "collaborators " [JP 9/10]. Knesset bill which would ban "unauthorized" meetings with PLO officials passes first reading [MG 9/10]. Settlers break open a passage between Hebron's main mosque and the marketplace. Israeli soldiers briefly detain the settlers and a press photographer [JP 9/10]. Talks begin between the U.S. Board of International Broadcasting and Israeli officials over the location of a high-powered radio transmitter for Voice of America to be built in Israel [JP 9/9].

Arab World: Jerusalem Post reports 17 Egyptians, including 3 army officers, were arrested last week on suspicion of membership in "Egypt's Revolution," the previously unknown group which claimed responsibility for assassinating Israeli diplomat Albert Atrakchi. Submachine guns, automatic rifles, and ammunition were found in the home of one of the officers, and large quantities of pamphlets with others [JP 9/9].

Other Countries: Jewish Telegraphic Agency reports a new lobbyingroup called Americans for a Safe Israel (AFSI) has opened offices in Washington, D.C. [JTA 9/10]. Japanese trade officials tell For. Min. Shamir due to changes in the "geopolitical situation," Japan is now willing to discuss economic cooperation with Israel [JP 9/10].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli soldiers shoot and wound 3 Palestinian youths in Hebron as they try to run away from ID check. A 12-year-old boy standing nearby is also seriously wounded by a stray bullet [NYT, JP 9/10]. Stones are thrown at an Israeli bus passing through Ramallah; no injuries reported. Ramallah is put under 2-hour curfew [NYT 9/10]. Stones are thrown at a foot patrol near Hebron, slightly wounding one soldier. Soldiers close and search the area. A curfew is imposed [JP 9/10]. A parcel bomb is discovered and defused in Gilo settlement, south of Jerusalem. A gasoline bomb is thrown at a bus stop in Jerusalem, causing no injuries [NYT 9/10].

Arab World: The cease-fire fails and fighting resumes over Burj al-Barajinah camp, called the "second war of the camps"; at least 53 have died and 250 been wounded in the week of fighting [LT 9/10, MG 9/12].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israel's 10-member inner cabinet meets to discuss security situation in occupied territories, resolves to tell Jordan again to remove PLO "bases" recently set up there [LT, BG, FT 9/5]. Inner cabinet approves proposal from Ariel Sharon that the authorities conduct general review of institutions in occupied territories that are supportive of the PLO [FJ 9/6]. Israeli soldiers rebuild wall separating Hebron's main mosque from marketplace, which settlers destroyed after 9/3 stabbing of two soldiers [GD 9/5]. MKs Yossi Sarid and Dedi Zucker of the Citizen's Rights Movement present document to Police Min. Haim Bar-Lev alleging Jumbo construction company made millions of dollars from fraudulent and illegal land sales [JP 9/5]. P.M. Peres sends close aide Avraham Tamir to unannounced ovemight visit with Egyptian Pres. Husni Mubarak to discuss ways of advancing relations between the two nations [CSM 9/6]. Israeli settlers try to squat in Hebron where 2 Israeli soldiers were stabbed 9/3. Army evicts them [CSM 9/6]. Five hundred Ethiopian Jews demonstrate in Jerusalem against rabbinical demands that they undergo symbolic conversion before marrying [WP 9/7]. For. Min. Shamir leaves for Japan to try to persuade Japanese leaders to relax their adherence to Arab boycott and increase trade with Israel [JP 9/4].

Other Countries: Operation Independence, a group of 100 international Jewish business leaders wishing to strengthen Israel's economy, sponsors New York meeting of hotel, airline, and tourism groups and prominent Jewish business leaders to discuss ways to increase American tourism to Israel [JTA 9/5].

Military Action

Occupied Palesine/Israel: Several katyusha rockets land in Galilee; no injuries reported. This is 4th katyusha attack on Galilee in recent months [JP 9/5].

Arab World: Israeli jets bomb suspected PLO guerrilla base in Lebanon's Biqa' Valley, 11th such strike inside Lebanon this year [NYT 9/5]. Reports say 6 Palestinians killed and 10 wounded in the attack [CSM 9/6]. Shi'ite and Palestinian militias battle around Burj al-Baraj inah refugee camp south of Beirut in worst fighting since June, when Syrian-sponsored cease-fire ended fierce clashes in 3 Palestinian refugee camps. Latest fighting leaves 10 dead, 27 wounded [NYT, LAT 9/5].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Farmers from Surif and Jib'a villages near Hebron claim settlers have recently prevented them from entering 2,000 dunums of their land planted with olive and other trees [JP 9/4].

Arab World: Yasir Arafat arrives in Cairo for talks with 'Usama al-Baz, Pres. Mubarak's chief political advisor UP 9/5].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli soldier Avraham Sorek, 37, stabbed to death, another soldier seriously wounded by two unidentified men in Hebron's old marketplace. Hebron declared "closed military area"; many arrests reported. Sorek is 15th Israeli killed this year, allegedly by Palestinian guerrillas [NYT, WP, LAT, FT 9/4; LT 9/5].

Arab World: Fighting breaks out between Palestinian and Shi'ite militiamen around Burj al-Barajinah refugee camp in southem Beirut [MG 9/12]. Car bomb explodes at a South Lebanon Army checkpost; Israeli sources say only the driver, Ahmad Husayn Khadr, 24, is killed. Pro-Syrian Lebanese Ba'th party claims responsibility, states 30 SLA militiamen died in attack [WP, NYT, PI 9/4]. Beirut radio states SLA gunners shell 10 villages in retaliation [WP 9/4].

Other Countries: Attacker believed to be linked to Black September organization throws two hand grenades into Greek hotel, injuring 18 British tourists. Woman telephones Greek newspaper threatening Black September will "fill Athens with bombs" unless Greek police release Palestinian arrested 8/31 near Jordanian embassy with suitcase full of weapons [PI 9/4].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: A second Palestinian who sold land to Hebron settlers goes into hiding after receiving death threats. Earlier, the land dealer who sold the apartmenthe 7 MKs occupied, Muhammed Yunis Ja'abari, took refuge in Hebron Mosque [JP 8/23].

Arab World: Egyptian Tourism Minister Wajih Shindi, on three-day visit to Israel, assures P. M. Peres restrictions on Egyptian tourists coming to Israel are now cancelled, owing to Israeli withdrawal from Lebanon [JTA 8/23].

Other Countries: Zulu Chief Minister Gatsha Buthelezi says Israeli experts will soon visit Kwa-Zulu, the home of South Africa's 6 million-strong Zulu tribe, to assess possible avenues for Israeli assistance [JP 8/23].

Military Action

Arab World: 21 are reported killed and 50 wounded in fighting as militias battle in Beirut before Syrian-sponsored cease-fire goes into effect [NYT 8/23].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli army evicts 7 MKs from apartment in Hebron, declares area "a closed military zone." The 7 leave but promise to appeal legality of eviction to the High Court [NYT 8/21]. Inspector General David Kraus, Plia Albek, a senior Justice Ministry official responsible for land registration, ad Bank of Israel Governor Moshe Mandlebaum appear before Knesset State Comptroller Committee for largescale investigation into land fraud cases begun by police after upsurge in complaints following arrest of several West Bank judges early in summer on bribery charges [JP 8/21]. Ahmad Odeh, wealthy West Banker, was arrested last week on charges of involvement in illegal land sales. Al-Fajr reported he contributed $30,000 to the Likud election campaign last year [JP 8/20].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Booby-trapped car is detonated minutes before it explodes at central bus station in Netanya. Police round up 100 Palestinians in the vicinity. A telephone caller claims responsibility for Fateh's Force 17 [FJ 8/23].

Arab World: Israeli diplomat Albert Atrakchi, 30, an administrative attache, is killed and 2 embassy employees wounded when 3 men spray their car with kalashnikov assault rifles in Cairo. "Egypt's Revolution" takes responsibility, threatens attacks until all "Israeli colonialists" leave Egypt [NYT, WP, JP 8/21]. Amal militia and the sixth brigade of the Lebanese army attack Burj al-Barajinah and Shatila with heavy bombardments; 24 refugees are injured [FJ 8/25]. Unidentified jets raid Hazerta village in the Biqa' Valley. Israel denies responsibility [JP 8/21]. Car bomb explodes in Tripoli, killing 44 and wounding 90. Caller claims responsibility on behalf of the Revolutionary Christians of the Cedars [NYT 8/21]. In Beirut, 40 are reported killed and 143 wounded in round-the-clock fighting between Christian and Muslim militias [NYT 8/21].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Defense Minister Yitzhak Rabin fails to persuade 3 MKs occupying apartment in Hebron to end illegal sit-in [WP 8/20]. Peres says govemment will remain sole body to authorize timing and location of settlement in occupied territories. Four more MKs join the protest sit-in: Yuval Ne'eman, Tehiya; Haim Druckman, Morasha; Benny Shalita and Dov Shilansky, Likud [JP 8/20]. Reports indicate Fara'a prison near Nablus has stepped up use of torture and intimidation. Water is often cut and quality of food is deteriorating. Overcrowding continues [FJ 8/23]. West Bank land dealer Moshe Zar submits defense in 9-month-old suit brought against him by 9 Beersheba residents who say he failed to deliver on IS 54 million of land purchases [JP 8/20]. Rabbi Meir Kahane, founder of Jewish Defense League, states he has resigned as group's leader, in move to save chances of getting visa to the U.S. since Knesset passed bill 7/31 outlawing MKs from having dual citizenship, which Kahane now has. Irv Rubin, 40, is appointed new leader [NYT 8/20].

Other Countries: Pope John Paul II, speaking in Casablanca, Morocco during an unprecedented visit to a Muslim country, states the status of Jerusalem, now under Israeli control, should be reviewed [WP 8/20].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Gasoline bomb is thrown at Israeli military vehicle in Gaza Strip between Gaza City and Jabalya refugee camp. No casualties reported [FJ 8/23].

Arab World: SLA militia, trying to retaliate against Shi'ite attacks, mistakenly shell Irish UNIFIL post, narrowly miss killing troops [FT 8/20].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli Cabinet approves Free Trade Agreement with U. S. whereby the two countries will lift trade restrictions on each other's products over next 10 years; it is expected to increase Israel's exports to U.S. by $200 million in the next two years [JTA 8/19]. One-man military disciplinary court rules Brig. Gen. Yitzhak Mordechai not guilty of using excessive violence in the interrogation of 2 Palestinians who hijacked bus in Gaza 12/4/84 [NYT 8/19]. Israeli MKs continue illegal occupation of house in Hebron. Inner Cabinet of senior govemment ministersplits 5-5 on the issue, putting problem back into the hands of the army [LAT 8/19]. Nazareth's annual municipality-sponsored work camp ends after 7,000 volunteers build bypass road and fence for local school [JP 8/18]. Ultra-Orthodox Jewish residents of Mea She'arim shatter windshield of car, try to overtum it and set it afire, and beat the 2 Palestinian occupants, who fled from the scene. Orthodox residents say the incident was in retaliation for previous attacks on members of their community by "secular" youths. Orthodox also stoned a "secular" family living near Mea She'arim. No arrests made [JP 8/18].

Arab World: U.S. special envoy Richard Murphy returns to Washington without meeting with a Jordanian-Palestinian delegation [NYT 8/19].

Military Action

Arab World: Car bombs explode outside a cafe in Druze-controlled quarter and a mosque in Shi'ite-controlled quarter of West Beirut, killing 29 and wounding 82 [NYT 8/20].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: U.S.envoy Richard Murphy arrives in Israel without having met with Palestinian delegation; briefs Israeli leaders on his discussions with King Hussein [NYT 8/16]. Three MKs from Tehiya party-Geula Cohen, Eliezer Waldman, and Gershon Shafat-lock themselves inside empty apartment in central Hebron; say they will remain until Cabinet discusses question of expanding Israeli presence in Hebron. Their action follows two previous attempts by Kiryat Arba settlers to occupy same apartment [JTA 8/16]. Al-Tali'a weekly reports Jordanian authorities have demanded dismissal of George Hazboun as secretary of Union of Public Institutions Workers in Bethlehem as precondition for release of funds to the union. Palestinian unionists denounce the demand as blatant interference in union affairs [FJ 8/16]. The Israeli Central Bureau of Statistics announces July's inflation rate, 27.5 percent, arecord level for a single month [FT 8/16].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Qalqilya is declared closed military zone following ambush of Israeli bus. Area was searched and a number of arrests made [FJ 8/23]. Land mine explodes as Israeli car passes on its way to Kiryat Arba; windshield is shattered [FJ 8/23]. Israeli soldiers surround group of farmers from Sakhnin village, fire guns over their heads, and beat them. Two children and 3 women are injured [FJ 8/23].

Arab World: Suicide car bomber kills himself and a SLA militiaman when he tries to ram SLA post on the edge of security zone. The Syrian Arab Ba'th party claims responsibility [LT 8/16]. Fighting continues in Beirut, killing 10. Shells strike presidential palace [NYT 8/16]. 

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Daily World reports Palestinian Communist party has denounced the moves to form joint Palestinian-Jordanian delegation to negotiate with the Israelis; sees it as effort to undermine principles of the PLO and the goal of an independent national state [DW 8/10]. The "Judea and Samaria" Settlement Council, dominated by Gush Emunim, announces boycott of Kiryat Arba because of its discrimination against Palestinians [JP 8/11]. Kiryat Arba town council cancels clause in its coalition agreement. Move opens the way for town council to receive funds blocked by the Knesset finance committee on grounds the clause violated the law [JP 8/11]. Jerusalem Magistrates Court imposes three-month suspended sentence and IS 200,000 fine on Rabbi Moshe Levinger for striking a 6-year-old boy in Hebron last year [JWP 8/11].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Kiryat Arba settler Ya'acov Reiter, 46, is stabbed in Hebron's marketplace; his condition is reported to be satisfactory. Curfew is imposed on Hebron, with house-to-house searches conducted for the two attackers [NYT, WP 8/11].

Arab World: Fighting continues in Beirut, with shells striking presidential palace [BG 8/11].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli authorities arrest 4 al-Najah U. students without charges, jail them under administrative detention orders. Army claims they are local leaders of Fateh, PFLP, and DFLP [FJ 8/9]. Nine Palestinian ex-prisoners released in the 5/20 prisoner exchange are served with deportation notices. Army states they can be deported because they cannot prove residency before original detentions. The 9 are from a group of 31 (out of the 1,150 ex-prisoners released 5/20) who do not have West Bank or Gaza IDs. They had all been told upon release they must leave when their residency permits expire this week. Some have nowhere to go. The Red Cross is looking into their cases [CT 8/7].) The High Court orders a delay in the deportation of one of the ex-prisoners, 'Abd al-Mujid Rudad, who argued that his whole family lives in Tulkarm and that during his 17 years of detention he repeatedly expressed regret for his political activities [WP 8/7]. The defense minister and the military govemor of the Tulkarm area have 45 days to explain why they should not prevent his deportation [JP 8/7]. Defense Min. Yitzhak Rabin justifies recent security measures; says Israel will use "whatever means are effective" tomaintain order [LAT 8/7]. Israeli govemment inaugurates new settlement, Adura, near Hebron, first since Peres took office [PI 8/7]. The Jewish Telegraphic Agency reports announcement by Austrian-Arab Society in Vienna that Hospice Hospital will reopen as a full-scale hospital afterenovation. Agreement was reportedly worked out between Franz Cardinal Koenig, archbishop of Vienna, and Tahir Kan'an, Jordanian minister for the occupied territories [JTA 8/7]. Israel Radio announces that none of the security officers involved in storming of Israeli bus hijacked by Palestinians last year will be charged in the deaths of two of the four hijackers [NYT 8/7]. Reuters reports that Rabbi Meir Kahane is giving 60 youths paramilitary training in a summer camp in the West Bank [TS 8/6]. Thirty-member delegation including Texas and Oklahoma oilmen and 6 U.S. congressmen arrives in Israel on fact-finding mission organized by Council for a Secure America, group established last year to support U.S. legislation aimed at promoting domestic production of oil and gas [JP 8/6]. New U.S. Ambassador to Israel Thomas Pickering presents credentials to President Chaim Herzog, reiterates U.S. opposition to new security measures, emphasizes U.S. support for Israel [CT 8/7].

Arab World: Seventeen representatives of Arab League member states assemble in Casablanca for Arab summit meeting [NYT 8/7]. Half the states attending are not represented by their heads of state [FT 8/7]. Fifteen pro-Syrian Muslim, Druze opposition leaders, and Greek Orthodox figures meet in Shtawra under Syrian sponsorship; proclaim National Unity Front to demand changes in Lebanon's system of political representation, now favoring the Maronites; call for a "democratic and secular" state with wide-ranging constitutional and electoral reforms [WP 8/7].

Military Action

Arab World: Suicide bomber riding a mule kills himself, the animal, and wounds at least one other in Hasbayya. Bomber is identified as Jamal Sati, 23, Sunni Muslim student and local Communist party chief [LAT 8/7]. 

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Seventy Palestinian detainees at Fara's detention center in Nablus go on twenty-four-hour hunger strike to demand better conditions: more and better food, more exercise, access to TV and radio, and end to brutality by guards. Al-Ittihad reported last week that Palestinian inmates of Hebron prison went on hunger strike in support of detainees at Jnayd prison in Nablus, who went on hunger strike to protest brutal treatment from their guards [FJ 7/19].

Arab World: PLO gives Jordan list of 10 to 15 Palestinians who have its approval to participate in talks with U.S. under Hussein peace initiative [NYT 7/14]. Names are not disclosed.

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: P. M. Peres opposes "preliminary talks" between U.S. and joint Jordanian-Palestinian delegation [JP 6/10]. Eleven Palestinian women political prisoners at Neve Tertza prison near Ramleh begin work strike to protest decision to integrate them with criminal prisoners [FJ 6/14]. Women punished by being held in cells 23 hours a day. Israeli military officials announce that starting 6/10 no joumalists will be permitted to enter southern Lebanon from Israel [WP 6/10]. IDF declare Hebron village of Raq'ah closed military area; impose curfew after 6/4 grenade attack on military vehicle [FJ 6/14].

Arab World: At urging of PLO Chairman Arafat, Arab League meets in Tunis to discuss three-week-old crisis [NYT 6/10]; declines to conduct inquiry into massacres of Palestinians in camps [LT 6/10]. Syrian-sponsored peace talks are deadlocked: Palestinians refuse to surrender arms to Amal [LAT 6/10].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Petrol bomb is thrown into Israeli bus in Nablus, West Bank; no injuries. Tourist bus stoned near Hebron. Shots fired at IDF truck in Gaza [JP 6/10].

Arab World: Palestinian fighters in Druzec-ontrolled hills east of Beirut bombard Shi'ite militia attacking three Palestinian camps [NYT 6/10].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Several thousand protesters demonstrate for and against clemency for Jewish underground defendants [JP 5/28]. Settlers post "wanted" posters depicting some of former prisoners released 5/20 in Hebron, Nablus [JP 5/28].

Arab World: In Tunis, Chmn. Arafat claims Amal, Lebanese Army's 6th Brigade troops massacred 60 Palestinian civilians on 5/26 in Sabra camp, Beirut [LT, MG 5/28].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Gasoline bombs thrown at Israeli bus near Dura; no injuries. 2nd bus stoned near Am'ari camp [JP 5/28].

Arab World: Continued heavy fighting between Shi'ite, Palestinian forces in Beirut halts Red Cross attempt to evacuate wounded in camps; at least 8 killed, 35 wounded [NYT, LAT 5/28]. 5 IDF troops wounded by resistance action in Majdal Salim area, S. Lebanon [JP 5/28].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Gen. Amnon Shishak tells settler leaders they cannot take law into their own hands (in wake of attacks, threats against prisoners released 5/20) [NYT 5/25]. Poll indicates 70% of Israelis support 5/20 prisoner exchange agreement; 73% also support clemency for Jewish underground defendants [MG 5/26]. 10 injured in clash between students representing rival Palestinian factions at Bir Zeit U. [JP 5/27].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: IDF announce discovery of purported PFLP cell in W. Bank responsible for 2/4 killing of IDF soldier in Ramallah; 30 arrested; 5 homes in Saffra, Beitur al-Tahta destroyed [PI, LM 5/25]. Settlers drive through Hebron, smash car windows, fire shots at home of Palestinian released in 5/20 prisoner exchange [LAT 5/25].

Arab World: Shi'ite-Palestinian fighting continues in Sabra, Shatila, Burj al-Barajneh camps, Beirut; at least 12 killed, 100 wounded; Syrian-sponsored ceasefire plan fails; Amal refuses to allow Red Cross into camps [NYT, WP, PI 5/25].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Jewish underground defendant Menachem Neuberger pleads guilty to charges of plotting to blow up al-Haram al-Sharif [WP, PI 5/24]. PM Peres asks Attorney Gen. Yitzhak Zamir for legal opinion concerning release of Jewish underground defendants; opposes executive branch interference in legal process [JTA 5/24].

Arab World: Officials from Amal, Palestine National Salvation Front meet in Mukhtara, Lebanon to seek resolution of Shi'ite-Palestinian fighting in Beirut [NYT 5/24]. PFLP, DFLP, Chmn. Arafat accuse Shi'ite fighters of massacres against Palestinian civilians in Beirut camps; Arafat also accuses Nabih Berri of making secret agreement with Israel to hinder anti-Israeli resistance in S. Lebanon [WP 5/24, LM 5/25]. Syrian FM Faruq al-Shara accuses Chmn. Arafat of provoking recent Amal-Palestinian fighting in Beirut [MG 5/24].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Settlers attack homes of Talib Gheith in Hebron, Muhammad Abu Kishik in Askar camp (both former prisoners releasd 5/20) [NYT 5/25].

Arab World: Action in Lebanon: fighting continues between Amal, Lebanese Army's 6th Brigade and Palestinian fighters in Beirut camps; Palestinians launch Katyushas against Shi'ite areas of city; 33 killed, 193 wounded [NYT, MG 5/24]. Amal stages searches for Palestinians throughout Beirut; at least 200 arrested [PI 5/25].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: DM Rabin states recently-released Palestinian prisoners now residing in Occupied Palestine/Israel will be rearrested if commandos kidnap Israelis in the future for bargaining purposes [JP 5/22]. Amid calls by Likud bloc that the suspects be pardoned in wake of 5/20 release of Arab prisoners, Pres. Chaim Herzog states he will deal with clemency requests regarding the Jewish underground defendants only after sentencing [JP 5/23]. Settlers block Emmanuel-Jerusalem road protesting 5/19 attack on Israeli bus [JP 5/22].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: IDF arrest 42 Palestinians celebrating 5/20 release of prisoners by Israel [LM 5/23]. 3 residents of al-Fardis (all former prisoners released in 5/20 prisoner exchange) agree to leave village after some 50 residents of Tekoa settlement raid village, demanding their expulsion. Settlers also harass residents of Hebron, Qalqiliya [JP 5/22, 23].

Arab World: Action in Lebanon: Fighting continues between Amal, Lebanese Army's 6th Brigade and Palestinian fighters in Sabra, Shatila, Burj al-Barajneh; pro-Arafat and Abu Musa forces join together to defend camps; at least 30 killed; Nabih Berri states he will never permit return of armed Palestinians to S. Lebanon [NYT 5/22].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Central Bureau of Statistics reports 37% of occupied territories' work force employed in Israel during 1984: 50,000 from W. Bank, 40,000 from Gaza; 44,000 worked in construction, 13,000 in agriculture [JTA 3/7]. Housing Min. begins building permanent structures in 3 settlements formerly containing temporary housing: Atzmona in Gaza, Cadim in N. portion of W. Bank, and Na'ama in Jordan Valley [JP 3/6]. Haifa U. suspends Palestinian student leader Amir Makhoul, imposes sentences on 3 other Arabs, 1 Jewish student, for activities stemming from 1/17 disturbance at university during speech by MK Eitan [JP 3/7].

Arab World: After meeting with Pres. Mubarak in Hurghada, Egypt, King Hussein expresses support for 2/24 Mubarak proposal for talks between US, joint Palestinian-Jordanian delegation [NYT, WSJ 3/7].

Other Countries: Reagan administration defersending Israel's $2.6 billion aid request to Congress for approval; states Israel has not made sufficient progress toward solving economic problems [NYT 3/7].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Authorities bulldoze 2 homes "illegally" built in Shuyuh [JP 3/7]. Roadside bomb explodes as settler's car passes in Hebron area; nearby note claims DFLP responsibility [JTA 3/8].

Arab World: Action in S. Lebanon: RPGs, shots fired at IDF, SLA posts in Shukin, Ansar; no casualties [JP 3/7]. IDF kill 2, wound 1 resistance fighter in Kafr Sir. SLA soldier wounded in Yatar. IDF raid Bidias; arrest 20 [DT, CSM, NYT 3/7]. IDF, Shin Bet agents arrest dozens in Tyre. Taxi driver killed by IDF near Tyre. IDF raid Burj Eliya; 12-yr. -old boy killed. Civilians in Teir Dibba forced to sit outside village during IDF raid [LT 3/7]. 7 Beirut-based journalists arrested by IDF near Tyre; later released [on 2/26 Israel issued ban on Beirut-based journalists in areas under IDF control] [NYT MG 3/7].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Foreign Min. official David Kimche summons diplomats from UNIFIL, UN Sec. Council nations for explanation of recent anti-resistance campaign in S. Lebanon; accuses Pres. Gemayel of provoking violence [PI 3/6]. MK's Meir Cohen-Avidov, Yuval Ne'eman return from US with pledges of $70,000 for Keren Hebron fund, a taxdeductible US charity for families of Jewish underground defendants [JP 3/5]. Palestinian prisoners at Jnaid, Nafha prisons initiate hunger strike in solidarity with striking inmates at Ashkelon prison (begun 2/22) [FJ 3/8]. Clash between nationalists and Islamic fundamentalist factions injures 8 at Islamic U., Gaza; 20 arrested; studies suspended for one day [FJ 3/8]. Jewish underground defendant Dan Be'eri plea bargains with Jerusalem District Court to reduce number of charges against him in connection with plot to blow up al-Haram al-Sharif [JP 3/6]. Strike called by 52 Palestinian town councils ends after Interior Min. promises to cover their municipal debts totalling IS 1.4 billion [FJ 3/8].

Arab World: Thousands of Shi'ites march in Beirut protesting 3/4, IDF raid on Ma'rakah [WP 3/6].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Grenade thrown at IDF patrol in Sa'ir; IDF detain over 150, destroy property; 24-hr. curfew imposed. [MG, FJ, JP 3/7].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: PM Peres willing to meet with joint Palestinian-Jordanian delegation [as suggested today by Pres. Mubarak] as long as it does not include PLO members [NYT 2/26].

Arab World: Pres. Mubarak urges the Reagan administration to invite Israel, joint Palestinian-Jordanian delegation to US for groundwork peace talks; states he would attend; offers to host such meeting in Cairo; intl. conference thereafter could be last stage [NYT 2/25]. Syria condemns 2/11 Arafat-Hussein accord [WP 2/25].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: 30 stores closed in Hebron in response to 2/22 attack on bus [JP 2/25].

Arab World: IDF continue large-scale actions in S. Lebanon: besiege Sir al-Gharbiya, Kabrika, Jubeiyeh, 'Arab Salim, Burj Rahhal, Toura, Ma'rakah, Deir Qanun, Bidias. Teenager killed by IDF in al-Bazouriya [NYT 2/25]. IDF kill one after indiscriminate fire in Nabatiya [WP 2/25]. RPGs fired at IDF patrols near al-Bazouriya, Jwaiyeh; no casualties [WP 2/25]. Roadside bomb wounds 2 IDF troops in Jib Jinnine [LAT 2/25]. 2 shells fired into southern Golan Hts.; no injuries [JP 2/25].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Gasoline bomb thrown at tourist bus, Hebron; no injuries; 24-hr. curfew imposed on market area [JP 2/24]. Police defuse bomb near St. Stephen's Gate, E. Jerusalem [JP 2/24].

Arab World: Action in S. Lebanon: woman wounded in 2/21 IDF raid on S. Lebanon villages, dies; 'Arab Salim man detained 2/21, kept outdoors, dies of exposure. 2 wounded as IDF fire on car at checkpoint, undisclosed location. IDF wound journalist Fadi al-Bardan, 2 children, in shooting east of Tyre. Bomb explodes under IDF vehicle north of Tyre; 2 wounded [NYT 2/23]. IDF kill man near Deir Mimas, after shots fired [LAT 2/23].

Social/Economic/Political

Other Countries: France Pays Arabes publishes interview with dissident Palestinian leader Abu Nidal, previously thought to have died 10/20/84; reportedly now located in Beqaa Valley, he threatens to kill King Hussein [NYT 2/22].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Bomb thrown at old central bus station, Hebron; several arrested; no injuries. Bus stoned in Halhoul; IDF close stores in vicinity [JP 2/22].

Arab World: IDF, SLA raid Teir Dibba, Deir Qanun al-Nahr, Yanuh, Zrariya, 'Arab Salim, Burj Rahhal, S. Lebanon; 3 killed, over 50 arrested; 12 homes demolished; 38 'Arab Salim residents deported from S. Lebanon [NYT, WP, PI, JP 2/22]. 2 Katyushas fired into Golan Heights; no casualties [PI 2/22].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Rabbi Moshe Levinger announces end of 3-mo. "protest vigil" outside Dheisheh camp [JP 2/19]. Trial of David Ben-Shimol [charged with 10/84 rocket attack on Arab bus, earlier bombing of E. Jerusalem cafe] begins in Jerusalem [JP 2/19]. IDF court in Ramallah orders 7 Dheisheh youths arrested 1/31 detained additional 50 days [FJ 2/22].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli bus burned by 4 masked men after stopping it south of Dura near Hebron [JP 2/19].

Arab World: IDF colonel killed, 2 SLA soldiers wounded during ambush in 'Arab Salim, S. Lebanon. IDF major killed by roadside bomb in al-Bazouriya, S.Lebanon [JP 2/19].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Citizens' Rights Movement presents report to DM Rabin citing discrimination in Occupied Territories, outlining proposals for improvement; cites as example of discrimination 4,000 phone lines in Kiryat Arba as opposed to 700 in Hebron UP 2/14]. DM Rabin states no settlement will be erected on Tal Rumeida, Hebron; Cabinet Min. Ne'eman insists previous Likud govt. approved such proposed settlement [JP 2/15].

Arab World: Chrmn. Arafat leaves for Rumania. PLO Political Dept. Head Farouq Qaddoumi, Fateh second-in-command Salah Khalaf insist PLO set up own independent state, have sole right to represent Palestinians at any peace talks [WP 2/15]. DFLP, PFLP criticize Arafat-Hussein accord [JP 2/15]. Lebanese security forces indicate over 1,000 SLA members have deserted since Israel announced withdrawal plans [LAT 2/16].

Other Countries: US State Dept. report on human rightsituation in Israel, Occupied Territories generally favorable [JP 2/14].

Military Action

Arab World: Action in S. Lebanon: IDF kills 11 resistance fighters, captures 9 in firefight along the Awali River [NYT 2/15]. IDF raid Burj Rahhal after bomb explodes near convoy; 150 questioned, 60 detained; 1 man killed, another wounded; 3 homes, community center bulldozed; IDF, French UNIFIL troops engage in fistfight as French try to stop demolition of homes [WP 2/15, LT 2/28]. IDF troops fire upon car of NBC news correspondent Bonnie Anderson at Awali River bridge near Sidon; no injuries [WP 2/15, NYT 2/27].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Political sources indicate Israel will permit US to build Voice of America transmitter [12/24] for broadcasts to USSR, Afghanistan [NYT 2/8]. MK Kahane prays at site where IDF soldier killed [2/5] in Ramallah [FJ 2/15]. IDF closes new al-Bireh high school after alleged stone-throwing incident [FJ 2/15].

Arab World: Responding to call from Nabih Berri, strike observed in Sidon, Tyre, Nabatiya and Shi'ite villages protesting 2/6 IDF raid, arrests [JP 2/8].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli taxi driver injured by stone near Dheisheh camp; curfew imposed on southern part of camp [JP 2/8]. Certain shops in Hebron and al-Bireh closed in response to stone throwing incidents [FT 2/8].

Arab World: Bomb explodes near SLA unit in vicinity of Qlai'eh, S. Lebanon; no injuries. Grenade thrown at SLA base near Sidon; no injuries [JP 2/8].