The Palestine Chronology

The 1st round of PA-Israeli FAPS talks at Bolling ends. The State Dept. says the teams spent this round "attempting to achieve a better understanding of each other's needs and requirements." No progress was made on narrowing the gaps in their positions. Teams agree to open a 2d round of talks at Bolling on 4/6. (NYT, WP, WT 3/29; AYM, al-Quds 3/29 in WNC 3/30; AYM 4/1 in WNC 4/6)

Barak phones Egypt's Mubarak in Washington to brief him on Israel's views on the 3/26 Clinton-Asad mtg. in Geneva. Egyptian FM Musa phones Syrian FM Shara` to discuss Syria's view of the 3/26 mtg. (MENA 3/28 in WNC 3/29; MEI 4/7)

In Washington for talks on bilateral relations, Pres. Mubarak meets with Pres. Clinton to discuss the peace process. Clinton calls for "intensifying" PA-Israeli negotiations, says that "the ball is in [Asad's] court" regarding movement on the Syrian-Israeli track. (MENA 3/28 in WNC 3/29; MM, NYT, WP, WT 3/29; MENA 3/29 in WNC 3/30; MM 3/30; DUS, MENA 3/30 in WNC 3/31; MM 4/3; MEI 4/7)

Jordan indicts 28 Arabs allegedly linked to Saudi dissident Osama Bin Laden on terrorism charges for conspiring to attack U.S., Israeli targets during New Year's celebrations. 15 suspects are in custody; 13 others are at large. Most of the suspects are Jordanian, others are Algerian, Iraqi, Palestinian, Yemeni. (DUS 3/28 in WNC 3/29; NYT, WP 3/29; DUS 3/29 in WNC 3/30; NYT 4/11)

After a 7-mo. investigation, Israeli police recommend that fmr. PM Benjamin Netanyahu and his wife Sara be indicted on criminal charges of fraud, bribery, theft of 700 state gifts worth $100,000, obstruction of justice. (MM, NYT, WP, WT 3/29)

Bowing to Washington, OPEC agrees to boost oil output. (Iran refuses to sign the agmt. in protest to the U.S. but agrees to comply in effect.) Clinton calls the move "good news . . . for the American consumer," but many OPEC officials complain that the heavy-handed U.S. pressure (especially fr. Energy Secy. Bill Richardson, who hopes to be chosen as VP Al Gore's running mate for the 11/00 U.S. elections) makes their own political and economic situations more awkward. (CSM, NYT, WP 3/29; WP 3/30; MEI 4/7) (see 3/24)

French PM Jospin, in Ramallah to meet with Arafat, is chased into his limousine by a rock-throwing crowd of Birzeit University students, angered by Jospin's characterization (2/24) of Hizballah attacks on the IDF in s. Lebanon as "terrorist attacks." PA police arrest 12 students, shut Birzeit until 2/29. (MENA 2/26, Le Monde 2/28 in WNC 2/29; NYT, WP, WT 2/27; CSM, LAW, MM, NYT, WP, WT 2/28; al-Quds 2/29 in WNC 3/3; JP 3/3; MEI 3/10)

PM Barak tells his cabinet that although he had made no new commitments to Syria in order to resume talks, he "would not erase" any promises made in previous negotiations under PMs Yitzhak Rabin, Shimon Peres, or Benjamin Netanyahu. (CSM, NYT, WP 12/14)

At the Knesset, PM Barak gives a speech, telling Israelis to prepare to pay "a heavy territorial price" for peace with Syria. After 7 hrs. of debate, MKs pass (47-31, with 24 abstentions, 18 absent) a vote of confidence giving Barak a mandate to negotiate with Syria. 1,000s of Golan settlers demonstrate outside. (CSM, MM, NYT, WP 12/14; CSM 12/15; WJW 12/16)

Russian dep. FM Sredin arrives in Amman for a 2-day visit. He discusses the peace process with the Russian rep. to the PA and Russian ambs. to Egypt, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria. (ITAR-TASS 12/14 in WNC 12/15)

In Bayt Awa, nr. Hebron, IDF commandos searching for 2 wanted Hamas mbrs. storm a house, killing 2 Palestinians, arresting 3. DM Efraim Sneh admits that there was a "contract" out for 1 of the men for killing an undercover Israeli border policeman in 1/99. (WT 12/14; NYT, WP 12/15; VIRI 12/15 in WNC 12/16; LAW 12/16; JP, MEI 12/24)

The U.S. reports the arrest in the Middle East of 13 mbrs. of a suspected terrorist group with links to Saudi dissident Osama Bin Laden that was believed to be planning New Year's attacks around the world. (NYT, WP 12/14; WT 12/15)

According to his spokesman, PM Barak is considering plans to erect a border fence btwn. Israel and the PA areas as part of a final peace agmt. (WT 10/23; WP 10/24) (see 10/17)

CIA Dir. George Tenet arrives in Israel for a wk. of talks with Israeli, PA political and security officials on prevention of terrorism, the "Iranian threat." (WT 10/28) (see 10/1)

YESHA mbrs. dismantle another uninhabited settlement in the West Bank. They had tried to clear it earlier, but were blocked by protesting yeshiva students. 5 of the 12 illegal settlements ordered removed by Barak have been vacated. (NYT 10/23; MEI 10/29)

The London-based al-Sharq al-Awsat reports that Sabri al-Banna (Abu Nidal) has asked Egyptian pres. Mubarak to halt a crackdown on his organization. Banna claims Egyptian security services raided and shut his Fatah Revolutionary Council (FRC) office in Cairo on 9/6, confiscating papers, detaining FRC mbrs., and freezing the organization's assets, which amount to $4 m. Egypt denies the report. (SA 10/22, 10/23 in WNC 10/25; MM 10/22; NYT 10/23) (see 1/26/99)

Rep. Gephardt nominates 2d Arab American, Juliette Kayyem, to U.S. panel on terrorism. Kayyem is Christian, whereas the previous candidate, Marayati, was Muslim. (NYT 7/31; MM 8/6; WJW 8/12) (see 7/8)

Habash convenes the PFLP Political Bureau in Amman to discuss a PFLP Central Comm. paper on possible dialogue with the PA. (WA 7/30 in WNC 8/2) (see 7/27)

Amal attacks an SLA post in s. Lebanon, injuring 2 SLA mbrs. (RL 7/30, 7/31 in WNC 8/2)

PCC resumes debate on declaration of state issue. (MM 4/28; MBC 4/28 in WNC 4/29; al-Quds 4/29 in WNC 5/3)

After being briefed by the State Dept. on the U.S.'s 4/26 letter to the PA, Israel accepts in principle Pres. Clinton's call for an extension of the interim period. (Prime Minister's Report 4/30)

U.S. State Dept. spokesman Rubin says that the U.S. is "deeply concerned" that Israel has repeatedly broken promises not expand settlements onto land not immediately adjacent to existing settlements. (MM 4/29)

Jordanian-Syrian border crossing comm. opens 3 days of talks in Damascus. Jordan proposes adopting identity cards, rather than passports, for travel btwn. the 2 countries. (JT 5/1 in WNC 5/3) (see 4/26)

Under pressure fr. farmers' groups, large corporations, the U.S. eases sanctions to allow sale of food, medical supplies to Iran, Libya, Sudan, other nations accused of supporting "terrorism"; adopts a general exemption for food, medicine whenever the U.S. imposes trade sanctions. (NYT, WP, WT 4/29; MM 4/30; MEI 5/7)

PA police confront an IDF patrol that accidentally strayed into Silleh village in West Bank area A, nr. Jinin. When the patrol refuses to halt, police open fire, wounding an IDF soldier. IDF declares the area around Jinin a closed military zone. (NYT, WP 4/29; NYT 5/1; JP 5/7)

To improve their chances in the upcoming 7/99 municipal elections, 13 Jordanian opposition parties agree to form a unified list, but decide to exclude the Islamist opposition party, the IAF. (al-Dustur 4/30 in WNC 5/3; SA 5/2 in WNC 5/5)

Arafat stops in Ghana, Nigeria for consultations on unilateral declaration of Palestinian state issue before concluding his 56 nation consultative tour. (Ghana Broadcasting Corporation Radio Network, NTA Television Network [Lagos] 4/25 in WNC 4/27)

In Amman, Israeli PM candidate and fmr. DM Mordechai meets unofficially with King Abdallah. (JT 4/26 in WNC 4/27)

Israeli pres. Weizman, trade delegation arrive in China for 1 wk. visit. (Xinhua 4/25, 4/26 in WNC 4/27; Globes [Internet] 4/28 in WNC 4/29)

Iran, Qatar hold talks on expanding bilateral relations. (IRNA 4/25 in WNC 4/27)

Israeli police shut Palestinian Prisoners Club office in East Jerusalem that Israel alleges was being used by the PA in violation of Oslo. (al-Quds 4/26 in WNC 4/29) (see 4/22)

Israel officially charges Shin Bet undercover agent Avishai Raviv with failure to prevent assassination of PM Yitzhak Rabin, conspiracy, support for a terrorist organization. (NYT, WP, WT 4/26; JP 4/30) (see 11/18/95)

U.S., Britain complain that for several mos., Syrian trucks have been smuggling Iraqi oil out of Iraq in violation of UN sanctions, perhaps in a barter arrangement in exchange for Syrian goods. U.S., Britain have asked the Syrian government to block shipments, but volume appears to be increasing, with 100s of tankers/wk. now entering Syria. The degree of direct Syrian government involvement in the smuggling cannot be confirmed. (NYT 4/26; MM 4/30)

In London, Arafat meets with British PM Tony Blair. (SA 3/11 in WNC 3/12; VOA 3/18 in WNC 3/19; PR 3/19)

For 2d day in Gaza, PA police clash with 100s of Palestinians protesting PA police shooting of demonstrators 3/10. PA declares area a closed military zone, confiscates film fr. 6 photographers, detain 3 journalists. More than 50 Palestinians, including 17 policemen, are injured. (WT 3/12; RMC 3/12 in WNC 3/16; PR 3/19; MEI 3/26)

U.S. Senate approves (98-1) resolution urging Pres. Bill Clinton not to recognized a unilaterally declared Palestinian state. (RMC 3/12 in WNC 3/16; al-Jazira 3/13 in WNC 3/17; al-Quds 3/17 in WNC 3/22; WJW 3/18; PR 3/19) (see Doc. C3)

Iranian pres. Khatami meets with Pope John Paul II. (CSM, MM, NYT, WP, WT 3/12; MM 3/15)

On the last day of his regional tour, U.S. Defense Secy. Cohen stops in Egypt, pays courtesy call on PM Netanyahu in Israel. (MM 3/11; MENA 3/11 in WNC 3/12; NYT, WP, WT 3/12; WT 3/13; al-Quds 3/13 in WNC 3/17; MM 3/17; al-Watan al-Arabi 3/26 in WNC 4/5)

Saudi Arabia signs protocol with Afghanistan's Taliban under which only Taliban-certified Afghans may participate in the Hajj, lending credence to rumors that the Taliban broke with Saudi dissident Bin Laden a mo. or so ago, is no longer providing him safe haven. (GIU 3/16; see NYT 3/4)

In Amman, Turkey, Jordan hold talks in the context of their security cooperation agmt. on combatting terrorism, drug smuggling, organized crime. (ATL 3/12 in WNC 3/16)

Turkish lawyer Ahmet Zeki Okcuoglu agrees to take up Ocalan's defense again but says that he still does not feel secure. (NYT 3/12) (see 2/25)

Hizballah attacks a South Lebanon Army (SLA) post in s. Lebanon, wounding 1 SLA mbr. (VOL 3/11 in WNC 3/12)

U.S. admits it worked for mos. to help Turkey arrest Ocalan, whom the U.S. considers a terrorist; say U.S. used diplomatic pressure, intelligence gathering to force nations to refuse him sanctuary, tracked him in Nairobi but did not have "direct involvement" in his capture. Turkish PM Bulent Ecevit says Turkey received the final tip from another country that he would not identify. Israel's Mossad issues public letter denying involvement. Kurdish protests continue in Europe, Canada, the Middle East. (MM 2/19; AFP, RL 2/19, al-Dustur 2/20, IRNA 2/21 in WNC 2/22; MIL 2/19 in WNC 2/24; NYT, WP, WT 2/20; NYT, WP 2/21; MM 2/22; MED TV 2/25 in WNC 2/26; PR 2/26)

With a private audience with Pope John Paul II on sidelines of UN conference in Rome (see 2/18), PA head Yasir Arafat begins international tour to confer with international leaders on the post-Oslo peace process, whether to unilaterally declare a state when the Oslo interim period ends on 5/4. (WT 2/20; MENA 2/20 in WNC 2/22)

Israel's Jerusalem Post reports that 22 new parties have been formed since early elections were declared 12/21, bring total number of political parties to 56. (JP 2/19)

Lebanese Chamber of Deputies speaker Nabih Birri meets with Hizballah secy. gen. Hassan Nasrallah to discuss coordination against Israel in light of Arnun occupation. (RL 2/19 in WNC 2/22) (see 2/18)

PA accepts U.S. proposal to attend talks in Washington next mo. to try to salvage the Wye agmt. Israel has yet to respond to the invitation. (WP, WT 1/18)

Ramadan ends. Arafat releases 37 Palestinian political prisoners fr. PA jails. Israel says releases prove that the PA continues its "revolving door" policy of freeing "Hamas terrorists," claims that 5 of those released killed Americans. (WP, WT 1/18; MEI, Prime Minister's Report 1/29) (see 1/7)

Just as Id al-Fitr celebrations begin, Israeli police enter the Arab town of Tira, Israel, to arrest suspected car thieves, prompting clash with Israeli Arab youths. 6 policemen, 6 Palestinians are injured. (AFP [Internet] 1/18)

In Cairo, Pres. Mubarak, Arafat discuss peace process. (MENA 6/14 in WNC 6/17; WT 6/17)

Saying that he alone will discuss political issues, PM Netanyahu cuts off presentation to the cabinet by IDF Chief of Staff Gen. Amnon Shahak on the IDF's assessment that there could be Palestinian violence if an FRD agmt. is not reached soon, dismisses Shahak fr. the room. Before leaving, Shahak says that from now on, he will tell the cabinet "only what it wants to hear." (MM 6/15; MA 6/15 in WNC 6/17; MA 6/16 in WNC 6/18; WT 6/29; JP 6/27)

Hamas, Islamic Jihad say they are considering Arafat invitation to join the EA. Israel says that inviting Hamas to join the authority without demanding that it "renounce terrorism and disarm its military wing makes a mockery of the PA's promise to . . . uproot the terrorist infrastructure." (IGPO, MM, WP 6/15; WT 6/17; PR 6/19)

Egypt, Iran sign memorandum of understanding on extending trade exchanges, preparing for mutual investment, establishing joint banks. (VIRI 6/15 in WNC 6/17; IRIB Television 6/17 in WNC 6/18)

Iraq, UNSCOM agree on 2-mo. plan to speed up disarmament verifications. (NYT, WP, WT 6/15; MA 6/16 in WNC 6/18; MM 6/17, 6/19) (see 6/4)

Israeli media reports that Israel has been holding talks in Europe with leaders of the previous anti-Taliban government in Afghanistan, possibly regarding setting up intelligence bases on the Iran border or establishing diplomatic ties. (YA 6/14, MA 6/17 in WNC 6/18)

Lebanon holds last round of municipal elections. Hizballah-supported candidates win only 5 of 21 seats in Baalbeck, while Amal-supported candidates win 16. (AFP 6/14, RL 6/15, 6/16 in WNC 6/17; MM 6/16; MM, WP 6/17; MEI 6/19; MM 6/23)

PC gives Arafat until 6/15 to reshuffle the Executive Authority (EA; the PA's cabinet) or face no-confidence vote (he has not faced a no-confidence vote since the 1996 elections). (WP 6/12; MEI 7/3)

In Cairo, U.S. Asst. Secy. of State for Near East Affairs Martin Indyk briefs Pres. Mubarak on U.S. efforts to persuade Israel to accept the U.S. FRD proposal. (MENA, RE 6/9 in WNC 6/10; ITV, MENA 6/9 in WNC 6/11; MENA 6/9 in WNC 6/17)

In Vienna, Jordan's Crown Prince Hassan discusses peace process with Chancellor Viktor Klima, who assumes the presidency of the EU on 7/1. (RJ 6/9 in WNC 6/10, 6/11; Der Standard 6/12 in WNC 6/15)

In Tel Aviv, Jordan, Israel discuss import of Jordanian agricultural goods, farm products to Israel, PA self-rule areas. (JT 6/11 in WNC 6/12)

Iran, Turkey convene economic summit in Tehran. (IRIB Television 6/9 in WNC 6/11; IRNA 6/10 in WNC 6/12)

In keeping with UN Res. ES-10/5 of 3/17, Switzerland opens in Geneva a 3-day experts-level mtg. btwn. Israel, the PLO, with the International Comm. of the Red Cross, to examine measures that would contribute to the effective application of the Fourth Geneva Conventions in the occupied territories. (Palestine and the UN 6/98)

Israeli Interior Min. approves construction of 58 housing units for Jewish settlers nr. the Mount of Olives in East Jerusalem. (Palestine and the UN 6/98)

U.S. government arrests without charge Muhammad Salah, a naturalized U.S. citizen once arrested in Israel for being a mbr. of Hamas; seizes his home, bank accounts worth $1.4 m.; hopes its investigation will lead to an indictment on charges of funding Hamas "terrorism." (NYT 6/14; JP 6/20; Shihan 7/11 in WNC 7/14)

In London, Secy. Albright asks Arafat to consider Netanyahu's proposed "refinements" to the 13.1% FRD plan. Arafat rejects proposal for cancellation of 3d FRD (see 5/17). Speaking with reporters, Pres. Clinton refuses to characterize Netanyahu's position in talks with U.S. officials, saying that to do so "would almost certainly reduce the chances of our being able to get agreement which would move parties to final status." (MM 5/18; CSM, NYT, WP, WT 5/19; MM 5/20; PR 5/22)

Citing Albright's London mtg. with Arafat, a senior British official says that the UK is "suspicious" that the U.S. is letting its brinkmanship with Israel on the FRD issue fade. In Paris, French pres. Jacques Chirac, Egyptian pres. Husni Mubarak call for a new international peace conference (opposed by the U.S.), creation of a Palestinian state. (MENA 5/18 in WNC 5/19; AFP, MENA 5/18, 5/19 in WNC 5/21; WP 5/19; WT 5/20; MENA, RE 5/21 in WNC 5/23; MM 5/22; RE 5/23 in WNC 5/27; MEI 7/31)

At the G-8 mtg. in London, Pres. Clinton agrees to ask Congress for greater authority to waive sanctions required under 2 U.S. laws that threaten to affect firms fr. France, Israel, Malaysia, Russia: Helms-Burton Act, which requires sanctions against foreign firms that make use of confiscated U.S. property in Cuba, and the Iran-Libya Sanctions Act, which punishes Iran, Libya for sponsoring "terrorism" by threatening sanctions against 3d countries who enter large economic agmts. with them (see 9/28/97). (NYT, WP, WT 5/19; MEI 6/5)

3 Amal mbrs. are wounded in clash with IDF in s. Lebanon. (RL 5/18 in WNC 5/21)

Pres. Clinton, Secy. Albright, special envoy Ross discuss ways of reviving peace process in light of Ross's failed mission, possibility of publicly presenting 13.1% FRD proposal. (MM 4/6)

Lebanon, Syria hold summit in Damascus to draw up plans to counter Israel's moves to promote its conditional s. Lebanon withdrawal offer. (MM 4/6)

Pres. Clinton receives letter fr. 33 House reps., praising their Middle East policy. (WJW 4/2; NYT 4/7; MM 4/8; WJW 4/9; MEI 4/10; WT 4/13; NYT 4/26)

PA concludes that Hamas's Sharif was killed by a rival Hamas faction; says it has detained 30, arrested 5 Hamas suspects in the murder, is looking for a 6th accomplis. Hamas rejects report, saying PA is seeking an excuse to can crack down on the movement as Israel demands prior to an FRD. PM Netanyahu says investigation proves the PA is capable of fighting terrorism. (ITV 4/6 in WNC 4/7; MM 4/6; VIRI 4/6, Corriere della Sera [Milan] 4/7 in WNC 4/8; CSM, NYT, WP, WT 4/7; MM 4/8; MM, WT 4/15; PR 4/17; CSM 4/21; MEI, PR 4/24; YA 4/26 in WNC 4/30) (see 4/4)

1,000s of Israeli Arabs hold general strike, protest march in the Galilee to denounce government discrimination against Arab citizens. In Um al-Sehali, Israeli police watch, do not interfere as 3 bedouin families rebuild their homes. (MM 4/6; MM, WP 4/7; WT 4/8; MM 4/9; PR 4/17) (see 4/4)

Hrs. after being summoned to appear before the PA General Intelligence Service (GIS), Palestinian Muhammad Anqawi, previously arrested by the PA on suspicion of being a collaborator, is found shot dead in Ramallah. (PR 4/17; JP 4/25)

Russia says it has proposed building a nuclear research reactor in Iran in addition to the atomic energy plant currently under construction. Israel, U.S. protest. (WP 4/7)

Iran-Iraq POW swap ends. (CSM 4/6; WT 4/8; WP 4/20)

Federal judge in Manhattan jails Ismail Elbarasse, a Palestinian American, for refusing to testify before a secret grand jury investigating Hamas fundraising in the U.S. (NYT 4/18) (see 2/23)

Pres. Clinton announces ban on foreign-made assault rifles that closes loophole in a 1994 weapons ban that allowed the continued import of Israeli Uzis, Galils. Israeli Military Industries, which planned to sell 10,000 of the guns in the U.S. over the next 3 to 4 yrs., is considering manufacturing the guns in the U.S. to avoid the restriction. (Globes [Internet], YA 4/7 in WNC 4/8; WJW 4/9)

Roadside bomb detonates nr. the Lebanon-Israel border, killing 1 civilian, injuring 3. 1 IDF soldier is injured, 1 Hizballah mbr. is killed in separate incident nr. the border. (RL 4/6 in WNC 4/7; WJW 4/9)

In Cairo, Arafat briefs FM Musa on U.S. envoy Ross's last tour. In Amman, Arafat adviser Abbas briefs King Hussein on the tour. (JTV, MENA, RJ 4/5 in WNC 4/7)

In Paris, French pres. Chirac meets with Syrian VP Khaddam, FM Shara`; says that UN Res. 425 requires Israel's unilateral, unconditional withdrawal fr. s. Lebanon. (RMC 4/5 in WNC 4/7; MM 4/6; MEI 4/10)

Iran receives new amb. fr. Turkey. (IRNA 4/5 in WNC 4/7)

Shin Bet officials inform the Israeli cabinet that the PA is fighting terrorism, using full weight against Hamas. PM Netanyahu disagrees. (ITV 4/5 in WNC 4/7)

Jordan releases last 16 of 250 residents of Ma'an detained in 2/98 on suspicion of instigating pro-Iraq rioting. (WP 4/5; RJ 4/5 in WNC 4/7) (see 2/28)

U.S. special envoy Ross meets with PM Netanyahu. (ITV 1/7 in WNC 1/11; WP 1/8; ITV 1/8 in WNC 1/11; RE 1/9 in WNC 1/12; JP 1/17)

In Amman, King Hussein meets with Labor Chmn. Barak. No details of mtg. are released. (JT 1/10 in WNC 1/13) (see 1/4)

Israel approves construction of 574 new housing units in Efrat settlement, 94 units in Elkana settlement, both in the West Bank. (ITV 1/7 in WNC 1/10; MM, WP 1/8; ITV 1/8 in WNC 1/11; WP 1/9; al-Dustur 1/9 in WNC 1/12; MEI, PR 1/16)

Israel, Turkey, U.S. begin naval maneuvers in the Mediterranean, which will last until 1/9. Jordan is the only country to accept Turkey's invitation to send an observer. (RJ, SANA 1/7 in WNC 1/10; MM, NYT, WP, WT 1/8; MA, YA 1/8 in WNC 1/11; MENA 1/9 in WNC 1/12; MEI 1/16) (see 1/5)

Iranian pres. Khatami uses CNN interview to address the U.S. people, urging them to break down the "wall of mistrust between us." He calls for cultural exchange with the U.S., expresses regret for 1979 hostage-taking but criticizes U.S. policies, says there is no need for political ties. State Dept. responds by proposing direct talks. Khatami also calls Israel a "racist terrorist state," denounces terrorism (which harms innocents) but expresses support for "peoples who fight for the liberation of their land." (MM, NYT, WP 1/8; MM 1/9; MEI 1/16)

Knesset passes (58-52) Netanyahu's budget, which includes a 20% increase relative to FY 1997 in the allotment for land, real estate purchases in East Jerusalem. (IDF Radio 1/5 in WNC 1/6; CSM, MM, NYT, WP, WT 1/6; Globes [Internet)] 1/11 in WNC 1/13)

Officers fr. Turkey, U.S. arrive in Israel to plan drills for joint naval maneuvers. (JT, JTV 1/5 in WNC 1/6; Tishrin 1/5 in WNC 1/10; MM, WP, WT 1/6; IDF Radio 1/6 in WNC 1/7; al-Rayah [Doha] 1/8 in WNC 1/11; MEI 1/16)

Interior Ms fr. 22 Arab League states end 2-day mtg. in Tunis; approve preliminary draft agmt. (to be presented to 4/98 Arab League session), calling on foreign states to cooperate with Arab security services, legal bodies to prevent "terrorism." (NYT, WP 1/6; MM 1/7)

In s. Lebanon, 1 civilian is wounded during IDF-Hizballah clash. (RL, VOL 1/5 in WNC 1/6)

Netanyahu proposes that the 3 stages of FRD outlined in Oslo II should be combined into 1, carried out after 5 mos. "on the condition that there be concrete Palestinian activity against terrorism" and that the PA agree to immediate negotiations on final status. (NYT, WT 11/28; WP 12/1; CSM 12/8)

In Cairo, Russian FM Primakov announces that Dep. FM Posuvalyuk has been named to the new posiition of Russia's special envoy to the Middle East, on a par with U.S. special envoy Ross, EU special envoy Moratinos. Primakov also outlines 12-pt. "code of conduct" for achieving peace. (MENA 10/30 in WNC 11/3; MENA 10/31 in WNC 11/4; JP 11/8)

Iraq forbids entry to 2 American UNSCOM mbrs. (see 10/29)

Afghanistan's Taliban, the militia which controls 2/3 of the country, says that it is holding Saudi dissident and alleged "terrorist financier" Osama Bin Laden under house arrest. (WP 10/31) (see 7/31)

After mtg. with Netanyahu, Labor Chmn. Barak says that the PM admitted approving Mishal's assassination. Though the government does not admit to the attack, the cabinet issues statement defending Israel's right to "fight terror without compromise." Newly released details suggest attackers sprayed a nerve toxin on Mishal; King Hussein threatened to break relations with Israel unless he received antidote, which Israel quickly supplied. Although King Hussein condemns the assassination attempt, he accepts the credential of the new Israeli Amb. to Jordan Oded Eran. (al-Ra'i 10/5 in WNC 10/7; MM, NYT, WP, WT 10/6; YA 10/6 in WNC 10/7; MM 10/7; WT 10/10, NYT 10/17)

An explosive device detonates in a s. Lebanon field, killing a civilian woman, child. Hizballah blames Israel. (RL, VOL 10/5 in WNC 10/7)

After a weekend of high-level negotiations with Jordan, Israel frees Hamas spiritual leader Shaykh Ahmad Yasin (jailed since 5/89), sends him to Amman. Timing lends creedence to reports that Israeli Mossad agents posing as Canadian tourists attempted to assassinate Hamas's Mishal 9/25. Canada says the attackers, still in custody, have refused consular services. (Radio Canada International 9/30 in WNC 10/1; MM, NYT, WP, WT 10/1; RJ 10/1 in WNC 10/2; SATN 10/1, al-Quds al-`Arabi 10/2 in WNC 10/3; ITV 10/1 in WNC 10/6; CSM, MM, NYT, WP, WT 10/2; PR 10/3; MM 10/6; MEI 10/10; JP 10/11)

Israeli pres. Ezer Weizman pardons 2 Israelis, commutes the sentences of 4 other, all of whom are serving terms for killing Arabs. (ITV 10/1 in WNC 10/3; NYT, WT 10/2; PR 10/10; JP 10/11)

Saying that it seems "our . . . allies don't get it," Secy. of State Albright strongly criticizes France for supporting the $2 b. gas deal with Iran, not following U.S. policy of isolating Iran for supporting "terrorism." (NYT 10/1) (see 9/28)

In Tehran, Iran, Jordan open 2-day follow-up mtg. to the 9/28-29 mtgs., sign several agmts., establish Jordanian-Iranian Economic Cooperation Council. (JT 10/1 in WNC 10/2; al-Dustur 10/1 in WNC 10/7)

In Cairo, Arafat, Egyptian pres. Mubarak, Jordan's King Hussein discuss 9/4 bombings, peace process, upcoming Albright visit; issue statement calling on Israel to implement outstanding Oslo II agmts., particularly the 2d FRD. (NYT, WP, WT 9/7; CSM, MM 9/8; MENA 9/7, al-Ittihad, JT, MENA, RE, RJ 9/8 in WNC 9/9; MM 9/8; MENA 9/9 in WNC 9/10; MEI, PR 9/12)

Israel's inner cabinet meets to discuss 9/4 suicide bomings. Shin Bet believes that Arafat is not behind, but rather against, "terrorism"; IDF Intelligence Branch believes that Arafat approved acts, will never fight "terrorism." (IDF Radio, MA 9/8 in WNC 9/9; MM 9/26)

IDF says that it has arrested around 170 suspected Hamas mbrs. since the 9/4 bombings. (IDF Radio, QY 9/7 in WNC 9/9; CSM 9/8)

Jordanian authorities arrest local Hamas spokesman Ibrahim Ghawshah for making statements that "pose a threat to national security." (AFP, RJ, RMC 9/7, AFP, al-Ittihad, JT 9/8 in WNC 9/9; MM 9/8; AFP 9/11 in WNC 9/12; MEI 9/12; Shihan 9/13 in WNC 9/19; al-Wasat 9/15 in WNC 9/17)

Hizballah attacks an IDF position in s. Lebanon, killing 1 IDF officer. (RL 9/7 in WNC 9/9; CSM, MM, NYT 9/8; JP 9/12)

In Gaza, Palestinian Authority (PA) head Yasir Arafat meets with Yitzhak Molho, personal atty. and adviser to Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyhau. No details about the mtg. are released. (WT 8/18)

The PA says it will match Israel's freeze (imposed since the 7/30 bombings) on transfers of monies owed the PA with a selective boycott of Israeli goods, calls for national unity talks with Palestinian groups opposed to the Oslo process. (NYT, WT 8/17; CSM, NYT 8/18; PR 8/22)

Jordanian Amb. to Israel Umar al-Rifa`i submits offical complaint to Israel, stating that he, Jordanian writer Nasir al-Din al-Nashashibi were harassed at an Israel checkpoint into Israel. (al-Dustur 8/17 in WNC 8/20)

PA police arrest 3 Palestinian car thieves who murdered an Israeli taxi driver in Jericho 8/14. Within hrs. the 3 men are tried, convicted to long prison terms. Israeli police praise the move, but government says cooperation in criminal matters does not prove that the PA is cracking down on "terrorism." (WT 8/17; NYT 8/18; CSM, WP 8/19; IGPO 8/28 in WNC 9/4)

Israel Defense Forces (IDF) attack Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine-General Command (PFLP-GC) bases in s. Lebanon, drawing fire fr. the Lebanese army. No injuries are reported. (RL 8/16, 8/17 in WNC 8/20)

U.S. special envoy Ross continues shuttling btwn. Netanyahu, Arafat; says that as the 1st step toward salvaging the peace talks, Israel, the PA must work together to determine the identity of the 2 men responsible for the 7/30 bombings; says some progress has been made toward this end. In the evening, U.S., PA, Israeli security officials meet. (MM 8/11; ITV 8/11 in WNC 8/12; CSM, NYT, WP 8/12; MA 8/12 in WNC 8/12; JP 8/16)

During a brief confrontation, Palestinian youths angry over the closure clash with IDF troops at a checkpoint in Ramallah. (NYT 8/12)

1 Israeli injured in the 7/30 bombing dies, bringing death toll to 16, including the 2 bombers. (WP 8/12)

In Jerusalem, 150 Conservative, Reform Jewish men, women attempt to pray together at the Western Wall. They are jeered by Orthodox Jews, who call them "terrorists," "Hamas," "Christians"; are forcibly removed fr. the wall by Israeli police. (NYT 8/12)

Israel encourages Germany to take action against Hamas supporters suspected of operating in Berlin, Aachen. Israel charges that some 70 Hamas supporters have been fundraising in Germany since 1994. (Der Spiegel 8/11 in WNC 8/12)

Fmr. Jordanian FMin. official Muhammad al-Khalili announces the founding of Voice of Peace, a new newspaper to be published in Arabic, English, Hebrew. Israeli authors will be among the contributors. (al-Quds 8/11 in WNC 8/14)

IDF prevents an Amnesty International team fr. visiting al-Khiyam prison in s. Lebanon. (RL, VOL 8/11 in WNC 8/12)

After 40 hrs. of talks, ILMG recesses without taking a decision, plans to resume discussions 8/12. (RL 8/12 in WNC 8/13)

EU special envoy Moratinos meets separately with Arafat, Netanyahu. Arafat then heads to Jordan for talks with King Hussein. King Hussein telephones U.S. Secy. of State Albright, Egypt's Pres. Mubarak, PM Netanyahu to discuss mediation btwn. the PA, Israel.  (MM 8/4; AFP 8/4 in WNC 8/5; RJ 8/4, 8/5 in WNC 8/6; MM, WT 8/5; MM 8/8)

Despite warnings fr. the U.S. that the decision could exacerbate the present situation, Israeli cabinet approves list of retributive measures against the PA drawn up by the inner cabinet 7/31, blocks transfer of $15 m. in tax payments owed the PA. Netanyahu says he will use a "sliding scale," relaxing some of the economic measures as the PA takes steps against Islamists. (MM, NYT 8/5; al-Ayyam [Ramallah], YA 8/5 in WNC 8/6; CSM 8/6; al-Hayat al-Jadida 8/10 in WNC 8/12; WP 8/14)

Israel arrest 29 Palestinians suspected of "terrorist activity," demolishes 5 Palestinian homes allegedly built without permits in East Jerusalem. Since the bombing, Israel has arrested 145 Palestinians. Arafat calls the actions collective punishment meant to humiliate the Palestinians. (IDF Radio, ITV 8/4 in WNC 8/5; LAW, NYT, WP, WT 8/5; MM 8/8)

Iran's Khatami is sworn in as pres. (CSM 8/5)

An elite Israeli Egoz unit is flown n. of Israel's self-declare security zone in s. Lebanon; plants explosives nr. the home of 2 Hizballah cmdrs.; later detonates them by remote control, killing 5 Hizballah mbrs., wounding 2 Hizballah mbrs. and 3 civilians. (MM 8/4; AFP, ITV, RL, RMC 8/4 in WNC 8/5; MM, NYT 8/5; NYT, WT 8/6; Independent [London] 8/6 in WNC 8/7; WJW 8/7; JP 8/16)

In Ramallah, the PC votes (56-1) to urge Arafat to dissolve the EA within 1 mo., appoint a new cabinet. After the session, Israel prevents 18 PC mbrs. fr. returning to their homes in Gaza. (CSM, WP, WT 8/1; LAW 8/7; PR 8/8)

With less than 24-hrs. notice, Syrian Pres. Asad travels to Iran as head of a delegation comprising his VP, FM, several senior military cmdrs.; discusses Syrian-Iranian relations with outgoing Pres. Rafsanjani. (MM 7/31; RMC 7/31 in WNC 8/1; MM 8/1; SATN 7/31, IRIB Television [Tehran] 8/1 in WNC 8/4; MA 8/3 in WNC 8/5; MEI 8/8)

Jordan's Crown Prince Hassan, FM Tarawnah meet with EU special envoy Moratinos. (RJ 7/31 in WNC 8/1)

Following a mtg. with his inner cabinet, PM Netanyahu threatens to send commandos into PA areas to preempt any new anti-Israeli attacks, to halt transfer of all tax revenues to the PA, to jam all Palestinian radio and television broadcasts; calls on the U.S., international donors to halt aid to the PA. (MM 7/31; RMC 7/31 in WNC 8/1; CSM, WP, WT 8/1)

IDF detains 2 Palestinian families fr. the West Bank town of Dahariyya whose sons have been missing for over a yr., but they are unable to identify the 7/30 bombers' bodies. Israeli cabinet orders the arrest of PA's Gaza police cmdr. Brig. Gen. Jabali for encouraging attacks on Israeli settlements (see 7/23). PA police arrest 28 Hamas mbrs., including Rantisi. PA, Israeli security forces hold 2 mtgs. during the day. (MM 7/31; IDF Radio, QY, RMC 7/31 in WNC 8/1; CSM, NYT, WP, WT 8/1)

New York City police seize 5 pipe bombs, arrest 1 Egyptian, 2 Jordanians in a raid on a Brooklyn apartment. Police were tipped to the bombs by a Pakistani, Muhammad Shindli, who believed that his friends, Ghazi Ibrahim Abu Mayzar and Lafi Khalil (who both identify themselves as Palestinian), were planning to bomb the New York subway. Abu Mayzar had stated in his application for asylum in the U.S. that he had been arrested in Israel on charges of "being a mbr. of a terrorist organization." The 3d man, Egyptian `Abd al-Rahman Musabah, is detained as a witness. Hamas denies any connection to the men. (NYT, WP, WT 8/1; RJ 8/1 in WNC 8/4; NYT, WP 8/2; AFP 8/2 in WNC 8/5; NYT, WT 8/3; al-Hadath [Amman] 8/4 in WNC 8/5; NYT 8/5; WJW 8/7; MEI 8/8)

Unnamed Gulf diplomats reveal that Sidi al-Madani al-Ghazi Mustafa al-Tayyib, financial director for Saudi dissident and alleged "terrorist financier" Osama bin Laden, has been in custody in Saudi Arabia since 5/97. Saudi authorities have passed some of Tayyib's revealed information to the CIA, FBI to track militant groups in Detroit, New York. (WT 8/1)

Lebanese court sentences 5 Japanese Red Army mbrs. to 3 yrs. in jail on charges of forging official stamps, illegal entry into Lebanon, forging passports. (VOL 7/31 in WNC 8/1; CSM, WP 8/1) (see 7/29)

U.S. special envoy Ross extends his stay in the region after Israel, PA agree to hold informal mtg. at Amb. Indyk's residence. Israeli team will be led by DM Mordechai, Netanyahu personal atty. Yitzhak Molho. PA side will be led by Local Government M and PISMC head Erakat, Culture M `Abid Rabbu. (MM 5/13; YA 5/13 in WNC 5/14)

In Amman, Norwegian FM Godal meets with King Hussein. (RJ 5/13 in WNC 5/14; JTV 5/13 in WNC 5/15)

Israeli amb. to Jordan Eran, quits after 8 days on the job because he was not informed about the 5/8 mtg. btwn. PM Netanyahu, King Hussein until 1 hr. before it happened; hopes that his resignation leads to improved relations btwn. Netanyahu's office, the FMin. (MM 5/13; JTV 5/13 in WNC 5/15; CSM 5/14; JP 5/24) (see 5/5)

Egyptian pres. Mubarak travels to Morocco for talks on the peace process with King Hasan. (WT 5/14)

Turkish PM Erbakan postpones indefinitely joint naval maneuvers with Israel. (Analtolia [Ankara], ITV 5/13 in WNC 5/14; MM 5/14; IGPO, SANA 5/14 in WNC 5/15; al-Nahar 5/14 in WNC 5/19) (see 5/1)

Labor party mbrs. vote down a proposal (37% for, 63% against) to create the post of party pres. for fmr. PM Peres, defer further debate until 9/97 (well after the new party leadership is selected 6/3). Decision heralds end of Peres's formal leadership of the party, is seen as victory for party rival IDF Chief of Staff Barak. (MM, NYT 5/14; YA 5/14 in WNC 5/15; JP 5/24)

In testimony before Congress regarding domestic and international terrorism, FBI Dir. Louis Freeh states that several Middle Eastern "terror groups" (including Hamas, Hizballah) "have placed supporters inside the U.S. who could be used to support an act of terrorism here." (WP 5/13)

The UNGA passes (134-3, with 11 abstentions) a resolution condemning Israeli settlement construction. (NYT, WT 4/26; ITV 4/26, SANA 4/27 in WNC 4/29; MM 4/28, 4/29; MEI 5/2)

In New York, Hamas political leader Abu Marzuq signs an agmt. that he will not contest the terrorism charges against him, will give up his residency status; in return, the U.S. will drop exclusion proceedings, release him to Jordan, which has agreed to grant him asylum. (AFP, RJ 4/30 in WNC 5/1; NYT, WP 5/1; NYT 5/2; WP 5/9) (see 4/22)

Israeli police find bodies of 2 Israeli women in a West Bank nature reserve nr. Jerusalem, suspect Palestinian assailants, but offer no proof. (WP 4/26; MM 4/28; WJW 5/1; JP 5/10)

Israeli court extends by 10 days the remand of businessman Manbar while it considers whether to charge him with selling arms to Iran. (ITV 4/25 in WNC 4/28) (see 3/27)

For 3d time, Iraq violates the U.S. no-fly zone to ferry pilgrims fr. Saudi Arabia to Iraq. (WP 4/26; CSM, MEI 5/2) (see 4/23)

In Miami, Palestinian refugee fr. Lebanon who hijacked an Iberian plane fr. Madrid to Miami on 7/26/96 is found guilty of federal air piracy charges, will be sentenced 8/11/97. (WT 4/26) (see also 7/30/96)

2 IDF soldiers are wounded by mortar fire nr. the Israeli, s. Lebanon border. IDF claims soldiers were hit while in Israeli territory; Lebanon, SLA claim soldiers were in s. Lebanon. (MM 4/25; RL 4/26 in WNC 4/29)

Israeli police formally call for PM Netanyahu's indictment on charges of "fraud and breach of trust" in connection with the Bar-On affair. Israeli state atty. Edna Arbel, atty. gen. Elyakim Rubinstein must now decide whether to file the charges. Labor leader Peres urges Netanyahu to step down, call new elections. (MM 4/16; IDF Radio, ITV 4/16, IDF Radio, MA, YA 4/17 in WNC 4/18; ITV 4/16 in WNC 4/29; MM, NYT, WP, WP 4/17; CSM, MM, NYT, WP, WT 4/18; WT 4/19; WP 4/20; MEI 5/2) (see 4/15)

U.S. special envoy Ross meets with PM Netanyahu, who rejects his suggestion that Israel make gestures toward the Palestinians to regain their confidence, demands PA show proof it is fighting "terrorism." (NYT, WT 4/17; IDF Radio 4/18 in WNC 4/21)

On the 1st leg of his regional tour, Russian dep. FM Posuvalyuk meets with Lebanese PM Hariri in Beirut, discusses the peace process. (RL 4/16 in WNC 4/17)

Israel reseals the West Bank after warning of possible Palestinian attack. (WT 4/16)

IDF demolishes home of a relative of suicide bomber Ghanimat in Surif, leaving 12 people homeless. (WP 4/17; LAW 5/6) (see 3/31)

Death toll in Mina fire (see 4/15) rises to 343. (NYT, WP 4/17)

SLA mbr. wounded in the 4/13 attack dies. (RL 4/16 in WNC 4/17)

PA delegation led by Arafat dep. Abbas, Local Government M Erakat arrives in Washington, meets with Secy. of State Albright, special envoy Ross. (WT 4/10; CSM, MM, PR, WP, WT 4/11; MM 4/14)

In Hebron, 7 Palestinians are wounded by rubber bullets in the latest round of clashes with the IDF. Israeli Justice M Hanegbi urges security forces to be tougher on Palestinian demonstrators. (MM 4/10; IDF Radio 4/10 in WNC 4/11; WT 4/11)

German court rules that Iran's top leaders ordered the 1992 assassination of 4 Kurdish dissidents in Germany. In response, EU mbr. nations (excluding Greece) withdraw their ambs. to Iran in protest to that government's support of terrorism. Iran responds in kind. (CSM 4/11; AFP 4/11 in WNC 4/14; VIRI 4/11 in WNC 4/15; MM 4/15; VIRI 4/18 in WNC 4/21; CSM 4/25; WT 4/28; NYT 4/30; MEI 5/2; al-Ahd [Beirut] 5/2 in WNC 5/7; WJW 5/15)