The Palestine Chronology

In the West Bank, 1 Palestinian minor succumbed to his injuries after 74 days in intensive care after being shot by Israeli forces in the neck near Ramallah on 5/14. Israeli settlers began construction work around a spring in Wadi al-Malih. Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinian protesters during a raid in Nablus, causing tear-gas related injuries. Israeli forces seized electric cables and an excavator in as-Samu. 10 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in and around Deir Balut, Silwad, Sur Baher, al-Ubeidiya, Wadi Abu Freiha, Hebron, Qabatiya, Meithalun, and Tammun. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces dispersed Palestinian protesters in Sheikh Jarrah. 2 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in Silwan. (AP, HA, WAFA, WAFA 7/26; WAFA 7/27; PCHR 7/29)

Kahanist Israeli lawmaker Itamar Ben-Gvir of the Otzma Yehudit (Jewish Power) party called the Palestinian Israeli deputy speaker of the Knesset Ahmad Tibi a terrorist before being forcefully removed from the Knesset podium he was speaking from. Ben-Gvir’s smear happened after he refused to address Tibi as “Mr. Speaker.” (HA 7/26; MEMO, TOI 7/27)

Tunisian president Kais Saied ousted the Tunisian government and froze the parliament in what was said to be a coup. Tunisian forces also stormed the Al Jazeera offices in Tunis and expelled the staff from the premises. Tunisians had taken to the street on 7/25 to protest the government after a new COVID-19 spike and continued economic difficulties. (AJ 7/25; AJ, AJ, AJ, AJ, AJ, AP, HA, MEE, MEMO, MEMO, MEMO, REU, REU 7/26)

In Lebanon, Najib Mikati secured 72 of 118 votes in the Lebanese parliament to be approved as the new prime minister-elect. Saad Hariri resigned as prime minister-elect on 7/15 after failing to form a government 9 months after being picked to do so. Mikati has been Lebanon’s prime minister twice before, in 2005 and 2011-14. (AJ, REU 7/25; AJ, AJ, AP, F24, MEMO, MEMO, REU, REU 7/26)

U.S. president Joe Biden and Iraqi prime minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi agreed, during a meeting at the White House, that all U.S. combat troops would leave Iraq by the end of 2021, leaving only U.S. personnel for advisory roles. (HA, MEMO 7/26; MEE, REU 7/27)

4 members of congress, Tom Malinowski (D-NJ), Katie Porter (D-CA), Joaquin Castro (D-TX), and Anna G. Eshoo (D-CA), urged the Biden administration to speak out against companies that sell cyber intrusion tools, such as NSO Group, and to consider sanctioning such companies and the regimes that use their tools. The members’ call follows reporting from 7/18 that NSO Group, with approval from the Israeli government, sold its Pegasus spyware to foreign governments, which have used the spyware on journalists, activists, and heads of other countries. (Tom Malinowski 7/26; HA, MEE 7/27)

Florida governor Ron DeSantis (R) urged the Florida State Board of Administration to place Ben & Jerry’s and its parent company Unilever on the state’s list of companies to be examined in relation to boycotts of Israel. The move comes as Ben & Jerry’s announced on 7/19 that it will stop selling its ice cream in the Occupied Palestinian Territories and end its licensing to an Israeli-based franchise. (HA, HILL 7/26)

After receiving a warning fr. Egypt that Israel is serious about preventing further rocket and mortar fire fr. Gaza, Hamas authorities hold a 2d mtg. (see 1/11) with smaller factions to urge them to adhere to a cease-fire, then deploys IQB mbrs. along the border and at makeshift checkpoints on roads leading toward the border to deter groups fr. firing into Israel. In the West Bank, the IDF steps up patrols dramatically, operating in 8 villages nr. Qalqilya, 3 nr. Jenin, 1 nr. Ramallah, and 1 nr. Tulkarm between late morning and late afternoon, arresting 1 stone-throwing teenager nr. Tulkarm and summoning several residents of Bayt Qad nr. Qalqilya for questioning; conducts late-night arrest raids, house searches nr. Jenin and Qalqilya. Jewish settlers fr. a settlement outpost nr. Nablus attack a Palestinian farmer working his field nearby; when nearby villagers come to the farmers aid, IDF troops intervene, firing rubber-coated steel bullets and tear gas at the Palestinians, seriously injuring 2 and moderately injuring 1. (NYT, WP 1/14; PCHR 1/20; OCHA 1/21)

In Tunisia, opposition forces call for massive antigovernment demonstrations after Friday prayers on 1/14 to demand Pres. Ben Ali’s immediate resignation. In the days since 12/29/2010, protests have increasingly come to reflect deep-seated frustration with overall government corruption and lack of political freedom, rather than just economic angst. The major riots that first roiled the countryside have become increasingly violent and spread nationwide, reaching the capital on 1/12 and the key resort city of Hammamet (where Ben Ali and his extended family have residences) on 1/13, leaving at least 30 dead. In effort to quell protests, Ben Ali has simultaneously moved to appease and clamp down on critics, pledging to investigate government corruption and recent “excesses” by the security forces and firing his interior minister (directly responsible for orchestrating the crackdown on demonstrators), but also deploying army units and riot police around Tunis and imposing a nighttime curfew, blaming “foreign terrorists and Islamic radicals capitalizing on the frustrations of the unemployed.” Rumors suggest that close relatives of Ben Ali, including billionaire businessman Muhammad Sakher El Materi (his son-in-law and heir apparent), have already fled the country. Today, Ben Ali gives a hastily prepared television address. Appearing unsettled, he orders security forces to hold their fire and release jailed protesters, agrees to make other minor reforms, and pledges to give up the presidency when he turns 75 (in 2014) in keeping with the constitution, but rejects demands to step down immediately and end his 23-yr. authoritarian rule. In a threatening move, however, he withdraws the army fr. Tunis, replacing them with special police and other security forces more loyal to his ruling party. Credible rumors say the shift has come about because Tunisia’s army chief Gen. Rachid Ammar has refused Ben-Ali’s orders to shoot demonstrators. By this date, small protests inspired by Tunisian demonstrators have been held in Algeria, Egypt, Jordan, Libya, and Morocco denouncing unemployment and corruption among the ruling elites, but are not perceived as destabilizing. (NYT, WP 1/13; NYT 1/14, 1/17, 2/24; see also WP 1/10, NYT 1/12)

IDF sets 11/1 date for starting withdrawal fr. West Bank, clashing with PA plans to hold elections by late 9/95. PA rejects Israeli proposal to pull troops out of only six West Bank towns (Bethlehem, Jenin, Nablus, Qalqiliyya, Ramallah, Tulkarm). (MM 6/1; CSM 6/3) (see 3/28, 5/6)

State Dept. issues semiannual compliance report evaluating PA performance as required by the Middle East Peace Facilitation Act (MEPFA). (WJW 6/8; JP 6/10; WP 6/14)

In Tunis, Fatah Central Comm., chaired by Arafat, approves continued PA negotiations with Israel in light of 7/1 deadline. Arafat then briefs PLO Exec. Comm. on talks, economy, relations among Palestinian factions. PPP boycotts. (al-Quds 5/31, ITV, VOP 6/1 in FBIS 6/2; MENA, QY 6/2 in FBIS 6/5; WT 6/3)

Arafat meets with French Pres. François Mitterrand, FM Alain Juppé in Paris, calls on EU to pressure Israel to break impasse in talks. (WP, WT 2/21; MEI 3/3)

Arafat flies to Tunis to prepare for PLO Executive Comm. mtg. 2/21. In what is largely seen as snub to Arafat, no sr. PLO mbrs. meet him at airport; Mahmud Abbas leaves country hours before arrival; Faruq al-Qaddumi forces Arafat to come to his office for mtg. (WT 2/22; MM 2/28)

1,000 Palestinians are allowed to return to jobs in Israel. PM Rabin says 10,000 will eventually be allowed back in. (MM 2/2)

Israeli Atty. Gen. Mikhael Ben-Ya'ir confirms IDF reports Israeli undercover police have been carrying out joint patrols around Jericho with armed settlers for past 2 wks; says patrols exists, are a problem, but will continue. (IDF Radio 2/20 in FBIS 2/23; HA 2/27 in FBIS 2/28)

Israel's West Bank Border Police Cmdr. Yitzhak Aharonovitz says joint Israeli-PA patrols have assumed many IDF duties in Jenin, Nablus, Hebron, will soon be given responsibilities in Bethlehem, Tulkarm as part of separation plan being finalized by army. (JP 2/21 in FBIS 2/23)

Likud files no-confidence motion against Rabin government for deciding to ease closure on o.t. to reduce tension with PA, says it threatens Israeli security. (QY 2/20, JP 2/21 in FBIS 2/21; QY 2/22 in FBIS 2/23)

Israeli, PLO negotiators open talks in Cairo on "early empowerment" of Palestinians in West Bank, expansion of self-rule area, redeploying IDF, elections.  Israeli side headed by IDF Maj. Gen Danny Rothschild, PLO by PNA Planning M Nabil Shaath.  Separate talks on settling issues remaining fr. 5/4 agreement, including borders of Jericho area, resume.  (MENA 7/11, 7/12 in FBIS 7/12; CSM, MM, NYT, WP, WSJ, WT 7/12)

IDF kills 2 Hamas mbrs. in Nablus after firing anti-tank missles at house they were hiding in.  The 2 had been wanted for a year.  Several buildings in area destroyed.  (Qol Yisra'el 7/11 in FBIS 7/12; MM 7/12; TJT 7/15; JP 7/23)

Qiryat Arba settlers vacate Hebron apartments occupied 7/8 in compromise with Housing M.  (MM 7/12)

PLO Chmn. Arafat departs Tunis for Cairo on way to take up permanent residence in Gaza Strip.  Arafat meets Israeli Dep. FM Beilin to discuss early empowerment of Palestinians in o.t. before his departure.  (Qol Yisra'el 7/11 in FBIS 7/12; NYT, WP, WSJ, WT 7/12)

Israeli PM Rabin accepts King Hussein's offer for a public summit mtg.  (MM 7/11; WP, WSJ, WT 7/12)

Israeli FM Peres announces he will meet Secy of State Christopher, Jordanian PM and FM `Abd al-Salam al-Majali in Jordan 7/20 in 1st public visit of an Israeli official to Jordan.  Israeli-Jordanian bilateral talks to resume 7/18 at Ein Evrona, southern Israel.  Jordanian spokesman says emphasis in talks will be on border, water issues.  (MM 7/11; MM, NYT, WP, WSJ, WT 7/12)

Jordan receives over $900,000 fr. UN for claims by Jordanian families for losses in 1990-91 Gulf war.  (WSJ 7/12)

IAF raids Hizballah positions in Biqa` Valley.  (Qol Yisra'el 7/11 in FBIS 7/11)

PNA Justice M Freih Abu Middein announces investigation into death in custody of Rafah r.c. resident.  Prisoner held on suspicion of drug smuggling, collaboration.  Justice Min. statement says prisoner died of "excessive violence" during interrogation.  3 interrogators detained and under investigation.   Palestinian human-rights orgs., including Hanan Ashrawi's Palestinian Independent Commission for Human Rights, call it a "case of maltreatment and torture."  (NYT 7/10; CSM, MM 7/11)

Israel announces 24-hr. closure of Gaza Strip to start early 7/11 in response to weekend clashes btwn. Palestinians, IDF.  (WSJ, WT 7/11; CSM 7/12)

Israeli Civil Admin., with PLO approval, appoints Fateh mbr. Ghassan al-Shak`a mayor of Nablus.  (Israeli Channel 2 TV 7/10 in FBIS 7/11)

Israel welcomes King Hussein's offer of a summit mtg. with PM Rabin.  (CSM 7/11)

Arafat performs `umra pilgrimage in Mecca, returns to Tunis. PNA Planning M Nabil Shaath says Arafat visit restored Palestinian-Saudi relations PLO Exec. Comm. mbr. Yasir `Abd-Rabbuh tells reporters PLO HQ, including Political Dept., International and Pan-Arab Relations Dept., and Returnees Dept. will remain in Tunis despite Arafat's move to Gaza.  (MENA 7/10 in FBIS 7/11; MM 7/11; WT 7/13)

Israeli navy kills 2 PFLP frogmen off coast nr. Naqura.  (Qol Yisra'el 7/11 in FBIS 7/13; MM 7/12; JP 7/23)

Emergency meeting of Fateh Central Comm. convenes in Tunis to discuss agreement with Israel. (al-Ra'y 9/2 in FBIS 9/2; WP 9/3)

Former Nablus mayor Bassam al-Shak'ah criticizes accord, calling those who negotiated it "connected to foreign interests that have nothing to do with the Palestinian-Israeli struggle." (MM 9/2)

Israeli FM Peres visits EC hq. in Brussels, asks for European aid to implement PLO-Israel accord. EC Pres. Jacques Delors pledges both financial and political support. (MM 9/2, 9/3)

Palestinians in Jordan estimated to number 1.8 m., roughly 40% of population. (JTV 9/2 in FBIS 9/3)

IDF Nahal soldier killed in ambush by Palestinians near Hebron. (MM 9/3)

Yasir Arafat chairs meeting of mbrs. of PNC, PLO Exec. Comm., Fateh Cent. Comm., and Palestinian delegation to peace talks in preparation for PLO Central Council meeting 10/15 in Tunis. (Sanaa VOP 10/15 in FBIS 10/16)

Israeli commission and Palestinian lawyers and prisoners meet in Junayd prison, Nablus, and reach compromise accord on prison condition improvements, to be signed 10/20. Israel agrees to about 20 concession including improvement of recreation areas and medical treatment, curtailment of physical pressure, and extension of family visit from 30 to 45 minutes. Demands that were rejected will be studied further, and a decision given in 2 months. (MM 10/16)

Over 10,000 Israelis, including at least 20 MKs, demonstrate their opposition to withdrawal from Golan Heights in Katzrin. (MM 10/15)

Palestinian prisoner on hunger strike dies, apparently ofheart attack, in hospital in Ashqelon. Residents of his neighborhood in E. Jerusalem demonstrate. (Qol Yisra'el 10/14, 10/15 in FBIS 10/15; MM 10/15)

Palestinian youth is killed by IDF gunfire during clashes despite curfew in Khan Yunis, Gaza Strip. (Qol Yisra'el 10/14 in FBIS 10/15)

Soviet F.M. Shevardnadze tells Sec. Baker in Copenhagen that USSR will not curtail or halt emigration of Soviet Jews [WP, WIT 6/7].

Soviet legislature postpones final approval of law relaxing emigration restrictions which was condition for Congress to ratify new U.S.-Soviet trade agreement [WP 6/6].

PLO rep. Hakam Balawi meets in Tunis with U.S. ambassador Robert Pelletreau, who delivers letter to Arafat from Bush admin. explaining U.S. 5/31 UN veto [TDS 6/5 in FBIS 6/6].

Israeli army and intelligence officials tell Knesset For. Affairs and Defence Committee that they believe 5/30 attempted raid by PLF members was directed at military, not civilian, targets (cf. 6/6) [JDS 6/5 in FBIS 6/6].

General strike called for by UNLU to commemorate 23d anniversary of 1967 war is observed in W.Bank; 2 Palestinian youths in Nablus are killed by IDF bullets [IDF, JDS 6/5 in FBIS 6/7; WT, LAT 6/6].

IDF lifts collective bans on travel to Jordan that had been imposed on some 25 W.Bank communities for periods up to 2 years [JPD 6/5 in FBIS 6/6].

Clashes in S.Lebanon between Shiite militiamen and SLA and Israeli soldiers; no injuries reported [BVL 6/5 in FBIS 6/6].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Jerusalem Television Service reports Knesset members Abd al-Wahab Darawshah and Muhammad Mi'ari about 2 weeks ago visited Tunis and met with Arafat and other PLO leaders. The meeting was kept secret [FBIS 12/29].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli army accidentally shoots, wounds 2 1 2-year-old Palestinian youths during clash between masked Palestinians and soldiers [WP 12/ 30].

Israeli army demolishes 3 houses in Bayt Furik near Nablus, and 2 others in Hebron area; Far'oun village near Tulkarm, and Bayt Sahur are declared closed military zones [FJ 1/8].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Ha'Aretz poll finds 52 percent of Israelis "are prepared to consider the deportation of Palestinians if a way is not found to make peace," compared to 38 percent who supported transfer 6 months ago [FBIS 11/14].

Arab World: PLO Executive Committee meeting in Tunis issues five additional points for Washington toclarify regarding Israeli-Palestinian negotiations [FBIS 11/ 13].

Other Countries: Japanese officials appeal to visiting F.M. Arens to open talks with the PLO; Arens rejects appeal [WP 11/12].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: A settler from Tulkarm area is stabbed, wounded; 13 Palestinians in Gaza are wounded in clashes with soldiers; army imposes curfew on Nablus and surrounding villages [FBIS 11/14].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: One of Israel's small religious parties, Agudat Israel, leaves the governing coalition for two months in hopes of forcing Likud to change the electoral system to end the "nearly permanent political deadlock," which many say preventshe peace process from moving forward [NYT 11/9].

Arab World: Women are allowed to cast ballots for the first time in Jordan's general election, the first election in that country in 22 years [NYT, WP 11/9].

Other Countries: U.S. Sec. of State Baker tells reporters that the U.S. had rejected Israeli imposed conditions on Baker's 5- point framework for peace talks even before the Israeli cabinet formally adopted the Israeli-modified plan earlier this week [WP 11/9]. U.S.-PLO dialogue continues in Tunis [FBIS 11/8].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: At least 10 Palestinians are wounded in clashes throughout the O.T.; IDF confiscates 15 automobiles belonging to Palestinians in Nablus; Rafah man suspected of collaboration is killed; Palestinian is shot, killed, 15 are arrested for membership in PFLP [FBIS 11/16].

Arab World: A car bomb explodes in West Beirut killing 4, injuring 16, in a neighborhood a few blocks from the villa where President Moawad is staying [NYT, WP 11/9].

Social/Economic/Political

Other Countries: Soviet official Gennady Tarasov meets with senior PLO officials in Tunis to discuss U.S. plans for Israeli-Palestinian talks [MET 11/7].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Palestinians in Nablus kill 54-year-old suspected collaborator [MET 11/7]. General strike in Tulkarm. 2 Palestinians are shot, wounded by IDF forces in clashes in O.T. [FBIS 10/31].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: General strike is observed in Gaza, Bethlehem district. Curfew in Dayr al-Balah enters 11th consecutive day [FJ 1/23].

Arab World: British min. of state for foreign affairs William Waldegrave meets with PLO officials in Tunis [FJ 1/23].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: 13-year-old Palestinian girl from Nablus, 12-year-old Palestinian girl from Beach camp die from wounds received earlier in uprising [NYT 1/15, Fl 1/23]. In Jerusalem 45-year-old Palestinian dies from injuries received 1/5 [FJ 1/23]. At least 8 Palestinians are shot in Gaza [NYT 1/15]. In Bethlehem soldiers open fire on demonstrators, at least 10 Palestinians are injured. In Duhayshah Palestinian is shot, injured [Fl 1/23].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: General strike is observed in occupied territories [FJ 4/24].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Violent demonstrations break out in Gaza Strip and W. Bank following news reports of Abu Jihad's assassination. At least 14 are killed by army gunfire in occupied territories; many others are wounded. Military orders 10 refugee camps under curfew [WP 4/17, 4/18]. Nablus is declared a closed military area. Soldiers use tear gas, bullets against large demonstrations in al-Birah and Ramallah, injuring at least 2. Palestinians and Israeli troops also clash in Tulkarm, Jenin, and Duhayshah camp [FJ 4/24].

Arab World: PLO military leader Khalil al-Wazir (Abu Jihad) is gunned down in his Tunis home; chauffeur and 2 bodyguards are also killed [WP 4/17; NYT 4/18].

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: 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: 9th annual Land Day commemorated throughout Palestine in demonstrations protesting Israeli land theft and discriminatory policies; military authorities impose curfews on Balata and Ain Beit Alma refugee camps near Nablus; Israeli troops open fire on demonstrators and bystanders in jenin and Qabatya villages and Balata and Dheisheh camps, 5 people wounded. Meanwhile, IDF bulldozes wheat crops, olive and almond groves of Kufr Qalil family in 2nd day of work on Elon Moreh access road as settlers look on. Fara'a prison detainee Walid A'ardeh testifies before Tel Aviv District Court to torture used to extract confession to unspecified charge. Interior Min. issues travel ban for Fr. Fawzi Khoury.

Arab World: Arab FMs meeting in Tunis warn US of unspecified retaliation if its embassy moved to Jerusalem; fail to agree on proposed reform of voting procedure and establishment of pan-Arab Court of Justice.

Other Countries: Chrmn. Arafat and Pres. Mubarak meet while attending Guinean Pres. Sekou Toure's funeral in Conakry. US formally ends participation in Lebanon MNF. Sweden's FM Schori criticizes Israeli policy in West Bank and Latin America during official 3-day visit to Tel Aviv. Lebanon's PM al-Wazzan tells US amb. Bartholomew that US shares responsibility for IDF repression in South because of its "unlimited military and political support for Israel."

SOCIAL/POLITICAL: Occupied Palestine/ Israel: Israeli police arrest Ephraim Segal, US-immigrant Elon Moreh settler, for questioning in murder of Nablus girl (12/8/83). 2 Israeli buses damaged and 1 Kiryat Arba settler hurt in hail of stones outside Dheisheh refugee camp. Hebron man obtains order nisi requiring West Bank commander to give cause for sealing of his home.

Arab World: Villagers in Milke, S. Lebanon riot against IDF patrol; 5 villagers injured, several arrested.

MILITARY ACTION: Occupied Palestine/Israel: 2 petrol bombs thrown at Israeli police bus near al-Bireh. Occupation forces demolish 3 Palestinian homes and seal 4 others in Hebron and Ramallah belonging to suspected members of groups hostile to Israel.

Arab World: Gemayel advisor discloses orders received in Washington to move LAF into Druze-held Chouf as US and Israeli warplanes provide cover and US ships blanket area with heavy artillery.

Other Countries: US Sec. of State Shultz criticized in Tunis for US-Israel "strategic cooperation."

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).

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:

IDF begins pulling out troops from West Beirut under mounting world pressure; thousands of Palestinians flee camps in panic, fearing return of Phalange/Haddad militias to camps following IDF withdrawal, before Lebanese Army can restore calm; Phalange and Haddad forces sighted setting up own roadblocks in West Beirut.

Casualties:

Red Cross continues to recover bodies, 130 recovered so far, no mass graves opened yet.

Political Responses:

Israel/ Occupied Territories: Controversy grows as media report government officials were aware that civilians were being killed in camps 36 hours before they intervened (denied by government officials); Haaretz, Davar, Jerusalem Post, Maariv call for ouster of Sharon and/or Begin, convening of national board of inquiry into Israeli complicity in massacre; Begin's office concedes Cabinet gave advance approval for IDF to allow Phalange/Haddad militias to enter camps last week; Israeli President Navon calls for independent inquiry into the massacre, Begin favors only investigating commission; National Religious Party joins Navon in pressuring Begin to allow a full investigation; Labor, Mapam, Shinui and Peace Now call for mass rally in Tel Aviv on Saturday; Palestinian leaders voice outrage at massacre; Palestinian youth throw stones at Israeli vehicles, set fire to tires in Ramallah and Nablus, police disperse crowds with tear gas and rubber bullets with no casualties; many stores close in protest, are forced open by Israeli soldiers; school openings in occupied territories postponed for two weeks; over 40 representatives of West Bank and Gaza refugees occupy UNRWA Jerusalem office to protest food ration cuts announced Sept. 1, UNRWA Employees' Union joins protest.

Palestinians/ Lebanese: Palestine Central Council ends one-day meeting with statement condemning Israeli role in massacre, blaming Lebanese Army, US, France and Italy, and pledges to avenge killings; Camille Chamoun withdraws from race for Lebanese presidency as it becomes clear Amin Gemayel has votes to win.

Arab Governments: Egypt recalls ambassador to Israel but does not break diplomatic relations; Jordan's King Hussein accuses Israel of responsibility for massacre but urges positive Arab response to Reagan proposals, calls on PLO to join him to draw up federation plan along lines of Reagan proposal; emergency Arab League meeting in Tunis called at request of PLO delayed until tomorrow.

US and Other Counties: Reagan agrees to Lebanese request for return of US Marines, asks Israel to pull out of Beirut; Congress gives troubled support to decision, Weinberger doubts presence of Marines would have prevented massacre; several US Jewish leaders call for inquiry, demand that Israel cut all ties with Christian groups involved in massacre; USSR condemns Israel but blames US for "encouraging" Israel's "criminal aggression," proposes joint US-Soviet action to curb Israel; Indian Prime Minister Gandhi condemns massacre; 10-member European Community condemns massacre, demands Israeli withdrawal; Danish Foreign Minister meets with PLO leader Kaddoumi, says PLO must be associated with Middle East peace talks; Italian workers go on hour-long strike and attend rallies protesting massacre; Britain condemns massacre, demands Israeli withdrawal.

Military Action:

IDF building first Israeli settlements in South Lebanon; IDF reinforces positions in western Bekaa. establishes radar station; Palestinian women arrested in Sidon for belonging to armed cells (following an assassination attempt of doctor close to Phalange); IDF harrassing LNM militia with sniper fire; Lebanese Army column enters West Beirut, occupies position behind and to south of IDF positions; PLO Lebanon representative Shafiq al-Hout presides over transfer to Lebanese Army of PLO stores, heavy weaponry; Abu lyad returns to Tripoli three days after evacuation; Major Haddad erects roadblocks north of Tyre as IDF forces sweep through orchards, fields arresting 75.

Political Responses:

lsrael/ Occupied Territories: Israeli Communist Party Rakah strongly criticizes US proposals as hegemonic, aimed at splitting Arab liberation movement; protests against invasion of Lebanon by Democratic Front for Peace and Equality in the Galilee banned by Israeli police; youth killed during demonstrations in Nablus; Israelis split over Reagan proposals (Sharon says Israel won't discuss proposals; Peres says Jordan has agreed to participate in peace process on basis of Reagan proposals).

Palestinians/ Lebanese: PLO Central Committee meets in Tunis to define PLO position before Arab summit and respond to Reagan proposals; Lebanese divided over attitudes toward continued Israeli military presence in Lebanon.

Arab Governments: Assad meets with PLO delegation; Egypt praises positive aspects of proposals following talks with Weinberger.

US and Other Countries: Austrian Chancellor Kreisky calls Sharon, Begin fascists.

Military Action:

Israeli planes shower leaflets on Beirut warning people to "flee for their lives" and suggesting two escape routes (pandemonium in streets as people try to enter E. Beirut; Phalangists refuse to let Palestinians through their lines); Phalange reported openly cooperating with IDF; large IDF troop maneuvers along Beirut-Damascus highway; Israel dis-plays stockpile of weapons from PLO bases in Lebanon; Israeli Government acknowledges use of US-supplied cluster bombs in Lebanon; car bombings continue in Beirut; 700 IDF tanks, 1000 armored cars, 210 heavy artillery pieces surround Beirut; special IDF unit trained in street fighting arrives from Golan.

Casualties:

Three killed, 20 injured in explosion near Agence France Presse building in Beirut; French paper says 209 died and 153 were wounded in mountains; latest Lebanese police figures are 10,112 dead, 19,000 wounded (expected to be higher); foreign correspondents are still not allowed into Ain el-Hilweh refugee camp (near Sidon) and Rashidiyeh (near Tyre); less than half of Palestinian refugees remain in 3 Palestinian camps, few have anywhere to go.

Political Responses:

Israel/ Occupied Territories: Israeli Cabinet issues "peace plan" demanding that all PLO members, not just leadership, exit to Syria, urges Lebanese Army to enter West Beirut; government officials express some concern over George Shultz; Sharon denies Begin promised Reagan IDF would not invade Beirut; former IDF chief of staff Gur says past 2 weeks of fighting and Israeli deaths pointless; Labor Alignment demands that IDF not ente: Beirut (300 Labor doves demonstrate outside Prime Minister's office); group of army reservists, back from serving in Lebanon, announces round-the-clock protests; 20,000 protest the war in Tel Aviv; blood bank in Gaza sends blood to Sidon victims through Red Cross; 2 mukhtars from Nablus area fired by Israeli government for refusing to join Israeli-sponsored Village Leagues; Nablus Mayor Shakaa condemns US veto of French resolution at the UN.

Palestinians/ Lebanese: Gemayel's Phalangists expand control in areas seized by IDF (re-ports of interrogations regarding political sympathies at gunpoint, beatings, even killings); hostility of villagers toward IDF in Bekaa area and mountains reported; Prime Minister Wazzan meets with Arafat; Arafat agrees in principle on PLO disarming and leaving Lebanon.

Arab Governments: Advisor to Mubarak says PLO will be radicalized; Saudi Arabia reportedly presses for IDF pullback; Syria reluctant to take PLO guerrillas, fearing Syria would become target for IDF raids; Tunis meeting of Arab foreign ministers reported as a fiasco (though ad hoc committee formed to pressure 5 permanent members of UN Security Council to demand IDF withdrawal).

US and Other Countries: US issues stern warning to Israel not to invade Beirut; Finnish medical therapist says IDF arrested bedridden patients in Sidon.