The Palestine Chronology

U.S. special envoy Ross arrives in Israel, meets with PM Netanyahu, heads to Gaza for talks with Arafat. (ITV 12/21 in WNC 12/24; NYT, WP, WT 12/22; NYT 12/23; JP 12/28)

In Hebron, a scuffle btwn. settlers, Palestinian children escalates into a melee btwn. 100s of settlers, Palestinians. IDF soldiers intervene; hit, kick, punch Palestinians, leaving 1 unconscious; arrests 2 Palestinians. (NYT, WP, WT 12/22; JP 12/28)

A group of Christian churches, nongovernmental organizations, individuals forming the coalition of Churches for Middle East Peace takes out an ad in the NYT calling for a shared Jerusalem, assuring the rights of all religions in the city. (NYT 12/21)

Ignoring U.S. appeals (see 12/20), Turkey, Iran sign 7 trade accords, granting each other most favored nation trading status, increasing the annual volume of trade btwn. the countries fr. $960 m. to $2 b., establishing a joint chamber of commerce, outlining maritime cooperation. Agmts. were drafted by the joint economic commission 12/16. (NYT, WP, WT 12/22; IRNA, VIRI 12/22, IRNA 12/23 in WNC 12/24; CSM, 12/24; WT 12/25)

Israeli, PA talks on Hebron resume for 1st time in 9 days. (ITV 12/16 in WNC 12/18; PR 12/20)

PA negotiator Erakat, Netanyahu adviser Molho meet briefly in Jerusalem to try to ease tensions that have built up since Israel's 12/13 decision to restore settler benefits. (CSM, WP, WT 12/17) (see 12/5)

Pres. Clinton criticizes Israel for planning to expand Jewish settlements in the West Bank, reinstating benefits to West Bank settlers. (MM, NYT, WP, WT 12/17; CSM, MM 12/18; WJW 12/19; IDF Radio, YA 12/19 in WNC 12/23; MEI 12/20; JP 12/28) (see 12/13)

IDF unseals Ramallah. (PR 12/20) (see 12/11)

In Washington, representatives of 29 nations (incl. Arab states, Brazil, Canada, the EU, Japan, the U.S.) pledge $3.2 b. toward the post-civil war reconstruction of Lebanon. The U.S. promises $20 m. over several yrs. (incl. $12 m. next yr. for education, environment). EU states pledge $1.5 b. (MM 12/16; RL 12/16 in WNC 12/17; MM, WP, WT 12/17; RL 12/17 in WNC 12/18; MM 12/18; al-Safir 12/18 in WNC 12/23; MEI 12/20; RL 12/23 in WNC 12/24; WJW 12/26; al-Safir 1/14 in WNC 1/17; CSM 1/15)

In Ankara, the 13th Iranian-Turkish joint economic commission session opens. (IRNA 12/16 in WNC 12/18, 12/19; MM 12/19)

ILMG meets at Naqura to consider a complaint by Israel regarding the launching of rockets into n. Israel 12/13. Although the Lebanese delegation does not believe katayushas actually were fired, the group concludes that at least 1 rocket, launched by an unknown party, landed in n. Israel. (RL 12/16 in WNC 12/17; RL 12/16 in WNC 12/18; RL 12/17 in WNC 12/19; MM 12/19; IGPO 12/26)

Jordanian Information M Mu`asher meets with PM Netanyahu. (JT, RJ 12/13 in WNC 12/16)

Israeli cabinet reinstates large subsidies (incl. tax brakes, business grants) for West Bank settlers. The U.S. says the move is "troubling," "clearly complicates the peace process." (MM 12/13; MA 12/13 in WNC 12/16; IGPO 12/13, ITV 12/16 in WNC 12/17; LAWE, NYT, WP, WT 12/14; IGPO, WP 12/15; CSM, MM, WT 12/16; MEI, PR 12/20; JP 12/21)

In Gaza, 15,000 Palestinians attend antisettlement rally called by Hamas and approved by the PA. Hamas spokesman Mahmud Zahhar announces that Hamas soon will open political offices in Gaza (with PA permission) as a transitional step for "greater participation in public life"; West Bank offices are planned. (NYT 12/14; CSM 12/16; ITV 12/17 in WNC 12/19; MEI, PR 12/20; al-Quds 12/20 in WNC 12/26; JP 12/21)

After France drops its threat to veto him, UNSC chooses Ghana's Annan, current undersecy. gen. for peacekeeping operations, for secy. gen. The full UN General Assembly (UNGA) is expected to officially elect him 12/17. (NYT, WP, WT 12/14; CSM 12/16; MEI 12/20) (see 12/6)

Katayusha rockets are fired fr. s. Lebanon into n. Israel, in the first crossborder attack since the wide-scale Israeli-Lebanese fighting in 4/96. No one is injured, but a cow is killed. Democratic Front for the Liberation of Palestine (DFLP), Hizballah, PFLP, Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine-General Command (PFLP-GC) deny responsibility. (RL 12/13, RL, RMC 12/14, RL 12/15 in WNC 12/17; NYT, WP 12/14; RMC 12/15 in WNC 12/16; RL 12/15 in WNC 12/17; RL 12/16 in WNC 12/18; JP 12/21)

In Jerusalem, Israel, PA hold "expanded" round of talks on Hebron. The 2 sides discuss the possibility of another Arafat-Netanyahu mtg. A dispute arises over the Rafah airport: Israel demands that the PA tear down the terminal, which already has been completed, and build it elsewhere. (RJ 11/21 in WNC 11/22; ITV 11/21, MA 11/22 in WNC 11/25; WJW 11/28)

In a press interview, Egyptian Pres. Mubarak says that Egypt "will not stand idly by" if Israel attacks Syria. Israel denounces the statement as provocative; Syria welcomes it. (al-Nahar 11/21 in WNC 11/26)

2 Palestinian boys are killed, 3 are wounded when they uncover an 1967-era Israeli land mine nr. Jenin. PA-Israeli joint patrol searches the area, discovers 2 more mines. (PR 11/29)

PA-Israeli talks on Hebron continue. Arafat reportedly demands that Netanyahu commit to completing IDF redeployment in the West Bank, opening Rafah airport. (MM 10/25; ITV 10/25 in WNC 10/29; WT 10/26; YA 10/27 in WNC 10/29)

Israel releases list of the 10 "most serious violations" of Oslo by the PA: PA police firing on IDF, ignoring bans on illegal weapons and disbanding independent militias, refusal to extradite individuals suspected of terrorism, incitement to violence against Israel, failure to change the PLO covenant, opening offices in Jerusalem, hiring "Palestinian terrorists" to serve in the PA police, exceeding the agreed upon number of PA police, injuring human rights and the rule of law, conducting diplomatic relations. (IGPO 10/25 in WNC 10/30; HA 10/28 in IL 10/28; PR 11/1; WJW 12/5)

French Pres. Chirac makes brief stops in Lebanon to meet with in Cairo before returning to Paris. (MM 10/25; RE, RL 10/25 in WNC 10/29; WT 10/27; MM 10/30)

Germany begins 2d mediation effort to settle the issue of Israeli pilot Ron Arad (downed over Lebanon in 1986 and believed to be held by Hizballah), Lebanese political prisoners in Israeli jails (incl. Dirani, Obeid). Germany's 1st mediation effort resulted in a prisoner swap 7/21. (RL 10/25, 10/26 in WNC 10/29; al-Safir 10/29 in WNC 11/4; MM 11/11) (see 9/25)

Hizballah detonates 4 roadside bombs in s. Lebanon, killing 2 IDF soldiers, wounding 5. (MM 10/25; QY 10/25 in IL 10/25; JP 11/2)

PA-Israeli security, civil talks continue in Jerusalem, reportedly stick on issue of reopening al-Shuhada Street, 1 of the main streets in Hebron, to Palestinian traffic. Israel says this would be a security risk. (ITV 10/24, MA, YA 10/25 in WNC 10/29)

In Amman, French Pres. Chirac signs protocol granting Jordan $15 m. for water, medical, telecommunications, meteorological projects; leaves for Beirut. (MEI, MM, NYT 10/25; WT 10/27; JP 11/2)

Despite Netanyahu's refusal to declare a national day of mourning, a memorial service for fmr. PM Rabin is held at Mt. Herzl. PM Netanyahu attends but is asked by the Rabin family not to make a statement. (MM, WJW 10/24; CSM, NYT, WT 10/25; JP 11/2; MEI 11/8)

In n. Iraq, KDP, PUK halt fighting, adhere to U.S.-brokered cease-fire. (WT 10/25) (see 10/23)

PISMC draws up a "joint paper," compiling a list of 15 points of contention (reportedly incl. hot pursuit, opening of al-Shuhada Street, type of weapons to be carried by PA police, movement of joint patrols) that have not been solve in the past 3 wks. of talks. (MM 10/23; RJ 10/23 in WNC 10/25; NYT 10/24; IDF Radio 10/24 in WNC 10/25; ITV 10/24 in WNC 10/29)

In Ramallah, French Pres. Chirac becomes 1st foreign head of state to address the PC. Chirac then leaves for Amman to meet with King Hussein. (MM 10/23; JT, JTV, LCI 10/23 in WNC 10/25; CSM, NYT, WP, WT 10/24; MEI 10/25; NYT, WT 10/27; JP 11/2)

Knesset Financing Comm. approves funds needed to complete 2,400 housing units in West Bank settlements whose construction was frozen by the previous Labor government. (ITV 10/23 in WNC 10/25)

Fearing a suicide bombing on the 1-yr. anniversary of the assassination of Islamic Jihad leader Fathi Shiqaqi 10/26, Israel seals the West Bank, Gaza. Israeli police shoot, wound 1 Palestinian who walks away fr. a checkpoint btwn. Ramallah, Jerusalem after refusing to show his ID. (ITV 10/23 in WNC 10/25; WP 10/24; CSM 10/25; PR 11/1)

After a wk. of talks in Turkey, U.S. Asst. Secy. of State Pelletreau announces that the KDP, PUK have agreed in principle to an immediate cease-fire, although their fighting continues in Koi Sanjak. (CSM, NYT, WT 10/24) (see 10/17)

King Hussein returns to Jericho with Arafat for his 1st visit to the West Bank since it was lost to Israel in 1967. (RJ 10/15, RE, RJ 10/16 in WNC 10/17; CSM, MM, NYT, WP, WT 10/16; PR 10/18; MM 10/24; MEI 10/25; JP 10/26)

PISMC continues mtgs. in Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, while an indirect dialogue is held btwn. Arafat, Netanyahu, mediated by U.S. special envoy Ross. Arafat proposes that the U.S. add a military contingent to the TIPH to ease Israel's security fears on Hebron. Israel rejects the idea. (HA, ITV, JP, YA 10/15 in WNC 10/17; CSM, MM, NYT, WT 10/16; HA, YA 10/16 in IL 10/16) (see 10/14)

35,000 Palestinian workers begin entering Israel. Internal closure on Nablus is lifted. (HA 10/16 in IL 10/16; PR 10/18) (see 10/10)

ILMG continues to discuss 10/12 Israeli shelling of a s. Lebanese village. Also in s. Lebanon, Lebanese woman steps on Israeli mine planted in olive grove to deter Hizballah attackers, is severely wounded. (RL 10/15 in WNC 10/17; WT 10/16) (see 10/14)

Lebanon publishes results of 1st census since 1932, showing a population of 3.1 m., lower than expected given 150,000 deaths during the 1975-90 civil war. The census took 2 yrs. to complete, does not incl. statistics on refugee camps. (WT 10/16)

Lebanese PM Hariri's government resigns to make way for new cabinet following recent national elections. (WT 10/16; MEI 10/25) (see 9/15)

PUK halts its advance outside Irbil, says it has no plans of trying to retake the city. (WP, WT 10/16) (see 8/31, 10/14)

At Erez, 2d day of Israeli-PA talks focus Hebron, security; deadlock on issue of redeployment in Hebron, with Israel demanding IDF lookout posts over Arab neighborhoods, buffer zones separating settlers fr. Palestinians, pistols only for PA police, rights hot pursuit into Palestinian areas. (RJ 10/7 in WNC 10/8; al-Quds, ITV, QY 10/7 in WNC 10/10; MM, WT 10/8; QY 10/8 in IL 10/8; WP, WT 10/9; IGPO 10/8 in WNC 10/11; CSM 10/10)

AIPAC heads arrive in Israel on unscheduled visit to warn PM Netanyahu about growing criticisms in Congress of Israeli policy. (ITV 10/7 in WNC 10/10)

Knesset inaugurates al-Haq mosque, a prayer room in the Knesset building for the use of Muslim MKs. (YA 10/11 in IL 10/11; WJW 10/17)

Turkey signs deal with Libya to triple trade btwn. the 2 nations. Libya agrees to pay money owed Turkish contractors (see 8/22). U.S. denounces the agmt. (JANA [Tripoli] 10/7 in WNC 10/8; VIRI 10/7 in WNC 10/10; NYT 10/8; MM 10/9; Anatolia [Ankara] 10/9 in WNC 10/11)

In Mali, Secy. of State Christopher begins "unusually blunt" 5-nation African tour to urge sub-Saharan countries to put up a candidate to replace UN Secy. Gen. Butros-Ghali. It is the 1st trip in 6 yrs. by a secy. of state to sub-Saharan Africa. (NYT, WT 10/8; NYT 10/10, 10/11)

Arafat, Netanyahu end 2-day summit in Washington without resolving their differences, agree to begin nonstop intensive negotiations at Erez 10/6 on disputed issues. (MM 10/2; al-Dustur [Amman], ITV, JTV 10/2, MA, RE 10/3 in WNC 10/4; CSM, MM, NYT, WJW, WP, WT 10/3; RE 10/3 in WNC 10/4; ITV, QPAR, al-Quds, al-Quds al-Arabi, VOA 10/3, al-Ra'i 10/4 in WNC 10/7; MM, WP 10/4; ITV 10/8 in WNC 10/11; PR 10/11; MEI 10/25)

Israeli, PA officers meet to discuss reopening Qarni crossing export of Palestinian goods into Israel. Israel demands that Palestinians at the checkpoint be unarmed. PA refuses. No agmt. is reached. (ITV 10/2 in WNC 10/4)

Anticipating possible failure of Washington talks, IDF moves more troops and heavy weapons, incl. tanks, helicopters, sniper squads, to the outskirts of zone A areas. (YA 10/2 in WNC 10/3; ITV 10/2 in WNC 10/4; WP, WT 10/3; MA 10/4 in WNC 10/7)

In Hebron, IDF fires on Palestinian protesters, killing 1 boy, wounding 2 men. 4 other Palestinians are wounded during protest nr. Halhul. (ITV 10/2 in WNC 10/4; CSM, NYT, WP, WT 10/3)

In Jerusalem, 50,000 Israelis march in support of Netanyahu. (WT 10/3)

Turkey's PM Necmettin Erbakan arrives in Cairo on 1st leg of 6-day regional tour. Meanwhile in Tripoli, Turkish, Libyan delegations begin talks on strengthening bilateral cooperation, with emphasis on economic, industrial issues. (WT 10/2; JANA [Tripoli] 10/3 in WNC 10/4)

Turkey announces plans to increase its electricity purchases from Iran to 3 b. kw/h. (IRNA 10/2 in WNC 10/4)

Lebanon's Council of Ministers grants al-Manar Television, al-Nur Radio temporary exclusion fr. the new media law (see 9/17), allowing them to continue broadcasting news of the resistance. They will both still be banned fr. broadcasting other political news, programs as of 11/30. (RL 10/2 in WNC 10/4)

In s. Lebanon, 2 IDF officers are wounded in clash with Hizballah. (ITV 10/2 in WNC 10/4)

IDF bans Palestinians fr. traveling btwn. West Bank cities, villages; warns it will reenter Palestinian cities (zone A) to disarm PA security forces if the forces fire on IDF again. Tanks remain outside zone A areas. More IDF checkpoints are set up along West Bank roads. PA-Israeli joint patrols resume in Gaza. In Jerusalem, the archaeological tunnel is reopened (see 9/27), leading to some stone-throwing incidents. 4 wounded Palestinians have died in the past 2 days, raising the death toll since 9/25 to 70. (IDF Radio, ITV 9/29 in WNC 10/1; NYT, WP, WT 9/30; NYT 10/1; MEI, PR 10/4; JP 10/5)

Arafat, Netanyahu agree to meet in Washington 10/1-2 to discuss recent violence, peace process. Jordan's King Hussein accepts invitation to attend; Egypt's Pres. Mubarak declines, sends FM `Amr Musa to observe. (IDF Radio, MBC, RMC 9/29, IGPO 9/30 in WNC 10/1; RE 9/29 in WNC 10/2; JTV 9/29 in WNC 10/3; CSM, MM, NYT, WT 9/30; MEI 10/4)

In the worst fighting since the peace process began, Palestinians, IDF clash in Ramallah. IDF shoots rubber bullets, stun grenades, live ammunition at protesters. IDF, PA security forces engage in firefight. 7 Palestinians are killed, 100s (incl. 2 EA mbrs., the mufti of Jerusalem) wounded; 8 IDF soldiers are injured by rocks, bottles; Ramallah is declared closed military zone; West Bank, Gaza are sealed. Clashes also occur in Bethlehem (wounding 12 Palestinians, 2 Israelis), East Jerusalem. In Ramallah, Bethlehem fighting dies down when officers fr. IDF, PA negotiate cease-fire, pullback. PM Netanyahu, Israel officials accuse PA of instigating violence. PA says outbursts were spontaneous reaction to 9/24 tunnel opening, months of closure. (MM 9/25; IDF Radio, IGPO, ITV, JTV, al-Quds al-Arabi, RMC 9/25 in WNC 9/27; CSM, NYT, WP, WT 9/26; MM 9/27; TJT 9/27 in WNC 10/1; MEI, PR 10/4)

Egyptian Pres. Mubarak receives phone calls fr. Arafat, Netanyahu, appealing to Egypt to intervene to calm the situation in the territories; suggests holding Arafat-Netanyahu mtg. in Cairo. Mubarak adviser Baz holds urgent phone conversations with U.S. special envoy Ross. (RE 9/25, 9/26 in WNC 9/27; MBC 9/26 in WNC 9/30)

PM Netanyahu arrives in Paris, meets with Pres. Jacques Chirac, leaves for Bonn. (WP 9/26)

At the UN, Israeli FM Levy signs Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty, briefs U.S. special envoy Ross on events in West Bank, Gaza. Ross says U.S. demands that Israel "make a gesture" concerning the tunnel. (ITV 9/25 in WNC 9/27; ITV 9/26 in WNC 9/30)

Egyptian Pres. Mubarak invites fmr. PM Peres to visit Cairo. Peres accepts but sets no date. (IDF Radio 9/25 in WNC 9/27)

Tel Aviv district court extends for 3 mos. the remand of Hizballah's Shaykh `Abd al-Karim Obeid (abducted fr. Lebanon in 7/89), fmr. Amal leader     Mustafa al-Dirani (abducted fr. Lebanon 5/21/94). (ITV 9/25 in WNC 9/27) (see 2/23)

ILMG opens 3d day of mtgs. to discuss issues raised 9/24 and new Lebanese complaints concerning Israel's expulsions 9/22, repeated Israeli attacks; releases statement stressing that firing fr. populated areas endangers civilians, Hizballah should refrain fr. carrying out attacks fr. or nr. villages. Lebanese FM Buwayz complains of U.S. bias toward Israel in ILMG. (RL 9/25, 9/26 in WNC 9/27; RL 9/26 in WNC 9/30)

In Damascus, Iranian, Syrian cultural attachés discuss expanding cultural ties. (IRNA 9/26 in WNC 9/30)

PM Netanyahu arrives in London on 1st stop of 3-day EU tour to garner support for his hard-line attitude toward the peace process; meets with PM John Major. (MM 9/24; LPR 9/24 in WNC 9/27; MM, WP, WT 9/25)

Under heavy police guard, Israel undertakes a surprise predawn excavation to complete a long disputed archeological tunnel that runs along the al-Aqsa mosque compound. The 12-yr.-old project was completed only on the personal orders of PM Netanyahu, who intended it as a message to Palestinians that Israel is the sole sovereign in Jerusalem. PA denounces tunnel work, calls for general strike 9/25. During the day, Palestinians at the mosque clash with police, hurl stones at Jews at the Western Wall. Jordan's King Hussein is furious that Gold did not warn him of the tunnel opening in their mtg. 9/22. (MM 9/24; JTV, RJ 9/24 in WNC 9/27; CSM, MM, NYT, WP, WT 9/25; WJW 10/3; MEI, PR 10/4; MM 10/9; WT 10/11)

In Hebron, IDF orders 6-mo. closure of 2 charity organizations allegedly linked to Hamas. Palestinians clash with IDF over reopening the central market (see 9/16). (HA 9/24 in IL 9/24; RMC 9/24 in WNC 9/27)

Following Israel's Yom Kippur holiday, ILMG reconvenes in Naqura to discuss complaints filed by Lebanon, Israel. (ITV, RL 9/24 in WNC 9/27; NYT, WT 9/25; JP 10/5) (see 9/22)

IDF, Amal clash in s. Lebanon, leaving 2 Amal mbrs. dead. (RL 9/24 in WNC 9/27; CSM, MM, NYT, WT 9/25; RL 9/25 in WNC 9/27; JP 10/5)

On his way fr. Gaza to the weekly PC session in Ramallah, Arafat's helicopter is forced to hover for 45 mins. before being permitted to land. At the PC, Arafat accuses Israel of "declaring a state of war against the Palestinian people," rejects U.S. appeal for an Abbas-Gold meeting. For 1st time since 1993, he calls for 1-day general strike 8/29, prayer rally in Jerusalem's al-Aqsa Mosque for 8/30. PM Netanyahu warns Arafat against an escalation of rhetoric, violence. (MM 8/28; ITV 8/28 in WNC 8/30; CSM, MM, NYT, WP, WT 8/29; ITV 9/2 in WNC 9/4)

UN Coordinator Larsen leaves Paris for Israel immediately after Arafat speech to attempt to "serious crisis" btwn. PA, Israel. (WP 8/29)

Israel, Turkey sign defense industry deal, stepping up military cooperation. Agmt. includes technology exchanges, is expected to pave way for $650-m. deal for Israel to overhaul 54 Turkish F-4 Phantom jets. Iran expresses concern. (CSM, MM, WP 8/29; VIRI 8/29, TDN 8/30 in WNC 9/3; VIRI 8/29 in WNC 9/4; RJ 9/4 in WNC 9/6 JP 9/7)

In Tulkarm, IDF demolishes 5 Palestinian homes built without permits. (PR 9/6)

Israeli police release Human Rights Watch employee Tarabiyya, arrested 8/19. (IDF Radio 8/28 in WNC 8/30; JP 9/7)

Unidentified gunmen open fire on an Israeli bus traveling on a Israeli-only bypass road to the Jewish settlement of Kiryat Arba in the West Bank, slightly wounding 2. (MM, NYT, WP 8/29; MA 8/30 in WNC 9/5)

Israeli police arrest 3 Palestinians who pitch tents at site of clinic in East Jerusalem which was demolished 8/27. (WT 8/29)

Amal attacks 2 SLA patrols in s. Lebanon, killing 1 soldier, wounding 5. (RL 8/28 in WNC 8/30)

Iran, Turkey connect electricity grids in keeping with agmt. signed by Turkish PM Erbakan during his 8/11-13 visit. (VIRI 8/18 in WNC 9/3)

In n. Iraq, KDP, PUK fighting intensifies, with the PUK gaining the upper hand. Iran calls for talks to end fighting, is generally seen as being the winner of the current crisis. (MM 8/27) (see 8/25)

Israel demolishes 2 Palestinian homes in Jerusalem suburbs for being built without a permit. (LAWE 8/21)

In s. Lebanon, 2 IDF soldier are killed when one IDF patrol fires on another by mistake. (MM 8/20; RL 8/20 in WNC 8/22; ITV 8/20 in WNC 8/23; MM, WT 8/21; MM 8/22) (see 8/16, 8/19)

Jordan eases curfew on Karak, arrests at least 14 mbrs. of the ASB, which says it had nothing to do with instigating riots. Information M Marwan Mu`asher say 4 journalists for al-Bilad (incl. its publisher, chief editor), 1 fr. al-Aswaq have been detained on charges of carrying inaccurate and misleading reports, direct involvement in recent riots. (CSM, MM 8/20; RJ 8/20 in WNC 8/22; JT, RJ 8/20, RJ 8/21 in WNC 8/23; JT 8/20, 8/21 in WNC 8/24; CSM, MM, NYT, WT 8/21; WT 8/22; al-Dustur, JT 8/22, al-Ra'i 8/24 in WNC 8/27; JT 9/5 in WNC 9/6) (see 8/18)

Israel's ministerial forum on Hebron reconvenes to discuss redeployment issue. (ITV 8/18; MM 8/19; IDF Radio, YA 8/19 in WNC 8/21) (see 8/15)

Hebron settler leaders hold mtg. to discuss how they will react if the government goes through with plans to redeploy. Kach mbrs. propose attacking Palestinians in the city after a pullback. (ITV 8/18 in WNC 10/3; YA 10/17 in WNC 10/22)

Israeli Interior M Eliyahu Suissa says his min. is working out a plan to be submitted to the government for approval that calls for expanding Jerusalem's area by annexing many settlements abutting it, incl. some that lie across the Green Line such as Ma'ale Adumim, Giv'at Ze'ev. (MM 8/19; MA, QY 8/19 in WNC 8/21)

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu, FM David Levy meet to resolve differences; agree to set up negotiations oversight comm., steering comm. for talks with Syria that will both incl. the PM, FM, DM. Netanyahu also agrees to redesignate all the head of the "Jordan desk" in the PM's office as "staff"; do the same for all geographic desk officers in the PM's office, so there is no overlap with the FMin.; improve coordination btwn. the PM's office, FMin. (MM, NYT 8/19; WJW 8/22; JP 8/31) (see 8/14)

PA Preventive Security Forces (PSF) bulldozes 5 Palestinian houses in Khan Yunis, saying the houses were build on government property that will be used for housing projects in the future. Owners of the homes said they received building permits fr. the PA Housing Min. (PR 8/23)

Bread riots continue in Amman, nearby Jordanian villages. In the past 3 days, 300 have been arrested, 40 injured in the countrywide protests. Many of those arrested are mbrs. of leftist political groups, such as the pro-Iraqi Arab Socialist Ba`th party (ASB), Jordan People's Democratic party (JPD), Jordanian Communist party. (RMC 8/18, 8/19 in WNC 8/21; JT, JTV 8/18, al-Ra'i 8/20 in WNC 8/22; MM, NYT, WP, WT 8/19; MEI 9/6) (see 8/17)

Lebanese parliamentary elections begin with Mount Lebanon district. Hizballah's 1 candidate is defeated, as is influential Greek Orthodox opposition figure Albert Mukheiber. 32 of the 35 seats go to progovernment candidates. There will be voting on 5 consecutive Sundays in separate regions. The last elections, boycotted by Christians, were held in 1992. (VOL 8/18 in WNC 8/21; WT 8/19; RL 8/19 in WNC 8/21; CSM 8/19, 8/20; MM 8/21, 8/28; MEI 9/6; CSM 9/10)

Israel's National Oil Exploration Company announces it has discovered oil in s. Israel, nr. Beersheba. The site, which could produce 600 bpd, is a sign oil could exist in significant quantities in the area. (WJW 8/22; JP 8/24)

On his 1st visit to an Arab capital since his election, Israeli PM Netanyahu meets with Egyptian Pres. Mubarak in Cairo. (MM 7/18; MENA, QY 7/18 in FBIS 7/18; IDF Radio, ITV, MENA, RE 7/18, MENA 7/19 in FBIS 7/19; CSM, MM, NYT, WP, WT 7/19; MENA 7/20, YA 7/22 in FBIS 7/23; CSM 7/22; WP 7/23; NYT 7/31; MEI 8/2)

Israeli DM Mordechai meets with YESHA settlers' council mbrs., who ask that mbrs. of their civil guard be attached to the regular army patrols in the West Bank, Gaza; more land be zoned for settlement expansion. (QY 7/18 in FBIS 7/18)

Mayor of Ma'ale Adumim settlement presents plans to link the settlement with Jerusalem through construction of 2,000 housing units, 3,000 hotel units on state-owned land stretching fr. Ma'ale Adumim to Pisgat Ze'ev settlement, thereby doubling Ma'ale Adumim's population to 40,000. (MA 7/18 in FBIS 7/18)

In Gaza, ceremony is held to establish the Islamic Renaissance Party (IRP). `Abd al-Halim al-Sutari, the party's sec. gen., says the IRP will participate in the PA. (al-Quds 7/20 in FBIS 7/29)

PM Netanyahu speaks before joint session of Congress. Rep. Benjamin Gilman (R-NY), noted for holding up Middle East Peace Facilitation Act aid to the PLO, calls speech "an eloquent and visionary tour de force." Netanyahu then hold talks with congressional leaders, representatives fr. Arab embassies, CIA Dir. John Deutch. (ITV, QY, SARR 7/10, QY, YA 7/11 in FBIS 7/11; MM, NYT, WJW, WP, WT 7/11; CSM 7/12; QY 7/14 in FBIS 7/15; MM 7/16; WJW 7/18; MEI 7/19; JP 7/20)

In Hebron, Palestinians clash with Israeli police after PM Netanyahu fails to set a date for redeployment in the city; IDF seals area, imposes curfew. Palestinians had hoped Clinton would have pressured Netanyahu to set a timetable for redeployment, easing of closure. (QY 7/20 in FBIS 7/10; QY, RE, SARR 7/10, al-Hayat, QY, RE, SARR, VOP 7/11 in FBIS 7/11; CSM, MM, WP, WT 7/11; RMC 7/10, al-Hayat, QY 7/11, VOP 7/12 in FBIS 7/12; MM 7/15)

Bowing to pressure fr. ultraorthodox Jews, Israeli Transportation Min. agrees to close Bar Ilan Street, 1 of Jerusalem's main roads, for most of the Jewish Sabbath for a 4-mo. trial period. Israeli High Court overrides his order with a temporary injunction to keep the road open. Israeli police expect demonstrations, violent classes btwn. orthodox, secular Jews. (WT 7/11)

After Organization of African Unity gives near unanimous backing to UN Secy. Gen. Butros-Ghali in his bid for a 2d term. U.S. again says it will veto him if he runs. (WT 7/11) (see 6/23)

Hizballah releases 2 SLA prisoners, proposes to exchange 17 other SLA mbrs. in its custody for 200 Lebanese nationals held in al-Khiyam prison in s. Lebanon. (MENA, VOL 7/10 in FBIS 7/11; MM 7/17)

PA calls on PM Peres government to redeploy in Hebron by 6/12 as agreed. However, Peres reconfirms to his cabinet that he will leave the redeployment to PM-elect Netanyahu. (al-Quds 6/2 in FBIS 6/4; NYT, WT 6/3; MEI 6/7; JP 6/8)

IDF eases closure of West Bank, Gaza, allowing 11,000 Palestinians to go to their jobs inside Israel, settlements. UN Coordinator Terje Larsen says PA is nearly broke, at least 50,000 Palestinians must be allowed into Israel to stave off a crisis; if aid is not forthcoming, PA will be forced to lay off public servants. (QY 6/2 in FBIS 6/3; WT 6/3) (see 5/31)

PM-elect Netanyahu gives "victory" speech, vows to continue peace process. (WT 6/2; ITV 6/2 in FBIS 6/3; MM, NYT, WP, WT 6/3; MEI 6/7)

Secy. of State Christopher says U.S. will necessarily adjust to a more conservative Israeli leadership but will wait until PM-elect Netanyahu's policies become clearer before passing judgement on his government. (MM, NYT, WP, WT 6/3)

Following Netanyahu win, Algeria, Qatar, Tunisia say they are considering slowing, but not reversing, normalization with Israel. (MM, WT 6/3)

PLO's Faruq Qaddumi arrives in Beirut fr. Damascus, meets with Lebanese FM Buwayz, announces he is making a tour of Arab states (Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria) to gain support for a "council to look after Palestinian refugees abroad." (al-Hayat, al-Nahar 3/9 in FBIS 3/12; al-Nahar 3/31 in FBIS 4/3)

Lebanon puts its forces on alert, fearing either Israel will deport Palestinians to its territory or attack s. Lebanon. Israeli puts its forces in s. Lebanon on alert, fearing a Hizballah attack as a demonstration of support for recent bombings. (IDF Radio, RL 3/8 in FBIS 3/8; RL, VOL 3/10 in FBIS 3/11) (see 3/5, 3/7)

PA amb. to Ankara Fu'ad Yasin says 8 Palestinians have disappeared in Turkey, apparently for political reasons, since the recent bombings in Israel; says the PA is following the issue closely with Turkish officials. (MENA 3/8 in FBIS 3/8)

To prevent suspects connected to recent bombings fr. fleeing by sea, Israel bans all fishing off the Gaza coast. PA condemns the action as collective punishment, violation of Oslo accords. (IDF Radio 3/8 in FBIS 3/8; NYT 3/9; WT 3/11)

In Burqa, West Bank, IDF blows up house rented by family of the 3/3 bomber. In Jerusalem, the IDF serves the Conference of Sciences and Islamic Education offices in n. Jerusalem with closure, partial confiscation orders, saying offices are used as a Hamas base. (VOP 3/8 in FBIS 3/11; WT 3/9; MM 3/20)

PA police detain Hamas spokesman Zahhar in Gaza City. (AFP 3/8 in FBIS 3/11)

PSF West Bank head Col. Jibril Rajub is forced to resign after refusing to carry out Arafat's orders to arrest Hamas leaders. Hussayn Shaykh, current head of Ramallah security, is appointed to replace him. (ITV, QY, RMC 3/9, HA 3/11 in FBIS 3/11; WT 3/10; QY 3/10 in FBIS 3/12)

IDF deploys tanks along the Green Line for the 1st time since 1967; says they are only their for observation purposes, it is not planning to launch an operation into the West Bank. (AFP, MA, VOP 3/7 in FBIS 3/7; NYT 3/8, 3/10)

Jordan says there are no official Hamas outlets in the kingdom; Hamas's presence is confined to holders of Jordanian passports, whose activities are confined to propaganda and political activities; Jordan is considering banning these activities. (al-Hayat al-Jadida, JTV, RJ 3/6 in FBIS 3/7)

IDF seals the Islamic Technical Institute in Abu-Dis and the Islamic College, Islamic College of Sciences, Polytechnic College in Hebron; announces that the policy on demolition of houses of suicide bombers and accomplices in the Jerusalem area has been changed: To date, such houses have been sealed only, now they may be razed. (MM 3/6; QY 3/6 in FBIS 3/7)

PA military court in Jericho sentences Hamas's Muhammad Abu-Wardah (arrested 3/4) to life imprisonment with hard labor for training suicide bombers and "harming the Palestinian people's interests." (MM 3/6; VOP 3/6 in FBIS 3/6; ITV, JMCC, VOP 3/6, IDF Radio, JP 3/7 in FBIS 3/7)

IDF, Shin Bet announce they have arrested an Israeli-Arab for bringing the Tel Aviv suicide bomber into Israel in exchange for $1,000, say an Islamic Jihad mbr. coordinated the deal (see 3/4). Israeli-Arab leaders are quick to condemn the man's actions as aberrant for the community. IDF also says it has uncovered the Hamas cell led by Muhammad Abu-Wardah that they believe is responsible for the Ashkelon, Jerusalem bombings. (QY 3/6 in FBIS 3/7; NYT, WP 3/7; QY 3/8 in FBIS 3/8) (see 3/6)

PSF detains 10s of alleged Hamas mbrs. in Balata refugee camp, Kafr Khalil, Nablus, bringing to 400 the number of persons recently detained. (QY 3/6 in FBIS 3/6, 3/7)

In Nablus, 1,000s of Fatah supporters hold peace rally. (WT 3/7)

State Dept. warns U.S. citizens against travelling on Israeli busses. Israeli Dep. FM Dayan officially protests. (Davar 3/7 in FBIS 3/7)

In a pre-dawn raid, IDF declares al-Fawwar refugee camp nr. Hebron a closed military zone, rounds up 1,000 men 16-64 yrs. old, arrests 30, seals homes of 2 suicide bombers. IDF also raids the Islamic College in Abu-Dis, arrests 14 students; arrests 10s of Palestinians in Hebron, Ramallah and holds them for questioning by Shin Bet. (MM 3/4, QY 3/4 in FBIS 3/4; IDF Radio, QY 3/4, QY 3/5 in FBIS 3/5; MM, NYT, WP 3/5)

Suicide bomber sets off explosion in Tel Aviv shopping district, killing 15, wounding 126. Bomber is identified as a man fr. Ramallah. A caller claiming to be fr. Hamas says Islamic Jihad is responsible. PM Peres vows to send IDF into self-rule areas to root out Hamas. U.S. Pres. Bill Clinton says he will allow the FBI, CIA to assist Peres in an antiterror campaign. (MM 3/4; IDF Radio, ITV, QPAR, VOP 3/4 in FBIS 3/4; QY 3/4 in FBIS 3/5; MM, NYT, WP, WT 3/5; WJW 3/7; PR 3/8 MEI 3/15)

After an emergency cabinet session, PM Peres announces formation of a special antiterror war headquarters which is authorized to "act everywhere, using all means, without any limitation on regions," incl. house demolitions, deportations, entry of IDF forces into zone B. (QY 3/4, MA 3/5 in FBIS 3/5)

Israel recalls its negotiating team fr. Washington. (IDF Radio, SARR 3/4 in FBIS 3/5; NYT 3/5; MM 3/5; IDF Radio 3/6 in FBIS 3/6; SATN 3/6 in FBIS 3/7) (see 3/3)

Hamas political leaders, Mahmud Zahhar, Muhammad Sham'ah hold a news conference; deny political wing is responsible for recent bombings; call on Qassam Brigades, Yahya Ayyash Units to halt all military actions. PA says it believes both 2/27 leaflets fr. Qassam Brigades are real; think the one denying responsibility came fr. cadres inside West Bank, Gaza and the one claiming responsibility came from cadres abroad. (MM 3/5; Der Spiegel, ITV 3/5 in FBIS 3/5; VOP 3/5 in FBIS 3/6; PR 3/8)

In Gaza City, Fatah rallies 1,000s of supporters, some carrying signs in Hebrew reading "yes to peace, no to violence" and "terrorism is our enemy," to protest against recent bombings. (MM 3/4; QY, VOP 3/4 in FBIS 3/4; QY 3/4 in FBIS 3/5; WP, WT 3/5)

In Tel Aviv, over 1,000 Israelis hold violent protest outside the DMin. to denounce the Oslo agmts.; 100 rally outside PM Peres's home; some 200 protest at the site of the Tel Aviv bombing; 100 rally in Jerusalem. Israeli police detain 10s for questioning. (HA 3/5 in FBIS 3/5)

In s. Lebanon, Hizballah mbrs. ambush an IDF convoy, killing 4 IDF soldiers, wounding 9. In 1st attack, IDF shoots back, killing 2 Hizballah mbrs. In a separate incident, a little-known Palestinian group, Islamic Revolutionary Army, ambushes a 2d convoy, wounding 1 IDF soldier. Peres sends 100s of troops fr. n. Israel into s. Lebanon to reinforce the border. (MM 3/5; VOP 3/5 in FBIS 3/5; IDF Radio 3/5 in FBIS 3/6; WT 3/6; MM 3/7)

Bus bomb goes of in Jerusalem, killing 19, wounding 10. Bomber is identified as a man fr. Hebron (see 2/26). Yahya Ayyash Units again claims responsibility, criticizes the Qassam Brigades for the 2/29 leaflet, offers its own 3-mo. cease-fire. PM Peres calls for total war on Hamas; reimposes full closure on West Bank, Gaza, incl. banning the entry into Israel of medical, humanitarian, VIP cases. Saying "not only Israelis will suffer from now on," he vows to seal or destroy the houses of the bombers' families, revives plan for national separation last suggested 10/19/94. (see also 10/19/94, 5/30/95). (WP 3/3; IDF Radio, ITV, JMCC, QPAR, QY, RJ, VOP, YA 3/3, QY 3/4 in FBIS 3/4; CSM, MM, NYT, WP 3/4; MM 3/5; PR 3/8; MEI 3/15; WJW 3/7, 3/21)

After the bombing, a mob of 100s of Israelis races toward the Old City, calling for revenge against Palestinians. Fearing a major clash, Israeli mounted police force the crowd back. Skirmishes between police, groups of angry Israeli youths erupt repeatedly throughout the day. IDF prohibits Israelis fr. entering PA areas. (QY 3/3, 3/4 in FBIS 3/4; NYT, WP 3/4)

Israel suspends indefinitely talks with Syria in Maryland in light of the bombing but leaves the negotiating team in Washington in hopes of resuming talks soon. (QY 3/3, HA 3/4 in FBIS 3/4; MM, NYT 3/4)

PA police arrest over 120 Hamas mbrs. in Gaza, bringing total number of Hamas men arrested in the past wk. to 380; raid Ramallah teacher's college. (MM 3/4; QY 3/4 in FBIS 3/4; QY 3/4 in FBIS 3/5; MM 3/5)

In Jerusalem, car driven by a Palestinian-American rams into a crowded bus stop, killing 1, injuring 23. 2 Israeli settlers shoot, kill the driver. Israeli police are unsure whether the man lost control of the auto or deliberately crashed it. (IDF Radio, ITV, QY 2/26, HA 2/27 in FBIS 2/27; CSM, MM, NYT, WP 2/27; WP, WT 2/28; MEI, PR 3/1)

PM Peres convenes a special session of the Knesset to discuss recent attacks, vows to wage war on Hamas; hints that if there are any more attacks, Israel might delay its withdraw fr. Hebron. (ITV 2/26 in FBIS 2/27; NYT 2/27)

IDF raids the Hebron homes of the families of 2 missing men suspected in the 2/25 bombings. Hebron is still under Israeli military control. (NYT 2/28)

2 IDF soldiers are slightly wounded when Hizballah shells their outpost in s. Lebanon. (QY, RL 2/26 in FBIS 2/26)

Israel says Lebanese military intelligence officers have kidnapped a Lebanese national allegedly working for Mossad in s. Lebanon. Lebanon tried and convicted the man, Ahmad Hallaq, in absentia for the 12/21/94 bombing that killed the brother of a Hizballah leader. (ITV, MENA 2/26 in FBIS 2/27) (see 12/28/94)

Yusif Maggid Molqi, sentenced to 30 yrs. for killing Leon Klinghoffer during the 1985 hijacking of the Achille Lauro, disappears while on furlough fr. an Italian prison. (WT 3/6)

Palestinian elections are held; 676 candidates run for the Palestinian Council, 2 for president. (WP, WT 1/20; ITV 1/20, QY 1/21 in FBIS 1/22; NYT, WT 1/21; CSM, MM, WT 1/22; WJW 1/25; JP 1/27; WJW 2/1; MEI 2/2; JP 2/3)

In East Jerusalem, 51 Arabs and Jews are arrested for incitement, disturbing the voting process. 3 are slightly injured. Kach mbrs. attack Arafat adviser Faisal Husseini, spray teargas at Palestinians, damage Palestinian shops. Heavy IDF deployments around polling stations keeps voter turnout low. (ITV, QY, VOP 1/20 in FBIS 1/22)

All Palestinian refugee camps in s. Lebanon--except al-Rashidiyya, which is strongly pro-Arafat--call general strikes to protest elections in the self-rule areas. (RL 1/20 in FBIS 1/22; MM 1/22)

PM Peres invites all PNC mbrs., incl. rejectionists and Islamists, to return to the self-rule areas (but not Jerusalem) for discussions on amending the PLO charter. (ITV, QY 1/20, JT, QY 1/22 in FBIS 1/22; MM 1/22)

IDF closes central Hebron after settler is stabbed, forcing voters find international observers who will escort them to the polls. Voter turnout estimated at 25 percent as a result. (QY 1/20 in FBIS 1/22; NYT, WT 1/21; WT 1/22)

McDonnel Douglas agrees to purchase $750 m. of equipment fr. Israeli defense companies in a buy-back deal under which the IAF will purchase 25 of McDonnel Douglas's F-15I planes for $2 b. (JP 1/20)