Social/Economic/Political
Occupied Palestine/Israel: P.M.Peres outlines plan to "devolve" Israeli control of health, education, welfare, municipal services to Palestinians in occupied...
Social/Economic/Political
Occupied Palestine/Israel: P.M.Peres outlines plan to "devolve" Israeli control of health, education, welfare, municipal services to Palestinians in occupied...
Social/Economic/Political
Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli Northern District Commissioner Yisrael Koenig resigns "because various ministers had blocked court orders to destroy illegal...
Social/Economic/Political
Occupied Palestine/Israel: The Observer (London) reports Israel and Iran cooperated in secret $1 billion arms-for-oil deal in 1977, codenamed "Operation...
Social/Economic/Political
Occupied Palestine/Israel: Dr. 'Azmi Shu'aybi, 'Ali Abu Hilal, and Hasan 'Abd al-Jawad drop High Court appeal against deportation orders against them on grounds...
Social/Economic/Political
Arab World: Pres. Mubarak asks France to organize intl. conference on M.E. peace to contact "both parties" - Israel and the Palestinians - in preparation for real...
Social/Economic/Political
Occupied Palestine/Israel: Group of Sephardi Jews announce founding of Committee for Israeli-Palestinian Dialogue, to counter generalization that Sephardim "hate...
Social/Economic/Political
Occupied Palestine/Israel: Over 150 Palestinians, Israelis replant olive saplings uprooted by the Nature Reserves Authority 3 weeks ago, north of Jerusalem; 6 ...
Social/Economic/Political
Arab World: Fourteen-member al-Quds Committee concludes meetings in Morpcco with call for "Jihad in all its forms" until East Jerusalem, occupied territories are...
Social/Economic/Political
Occupied Palestine/Israel: A senior Israeli official states P.M. Peres has proposed negotiating a settlement with Palestinian mayors in the occupied territories [...
Social/Economic/Political
Occupied Palestine/Israel: Jerusalem Post reports family of 1 of 3 Israeli soldiers reported missing in action during Lebanon war received information...
Social/Economic/Political
Occupied Palestine/Israel: Jerusalem Post reports nearly 2 dozen Nablus Palestinians have been detained, questioned for 2 weeks without charges on...
Social/Economic/Political
Occupied Palestine/Israel: Some 1,500 Palestinian political prisoners in Junayd, Jenin, Hebron prisons end 2-week hunger strike protesting poor prison conditions...
Social/Economic/Political
Occupied Palestine/Israel: "Committee to Confronthe Iron Fist" forms in Jerusalem to publicize human rights abuses in occupied territories, especially...
Social/Economic/Political
Occupied Palestine/Israel: Asst. Sec. of State Richard Murphy meets in Jerusalem with 9 leading Palestinians from the occupied territories in what is described as...
Social/Economic/Political
Occupied Palestine/Israel: Jewish Press carries report stating P.M. Peres and King Hussein have met secretly to discuss M.E. peace prospects [JWP 11/22]. ...
Social/Economic/Political
Occupied Palestine/Israel: Lod military court sentences 2 West Bank Palestinians to life for murder of Jewish couple near Jerusalem [WP, TS 11/22].
Arab...
SociaL/Economic/Political
Occupied Palestine/Israel: Tel Aviv court sentences 16-year-old Palestinian to 7 years for hiding bodies of 2 Israeli teachers slain near Jerusalem [LT 11/20]....
Social/Economic/Political
Occupied Palestine/Israel: P.M. Peres calls for emergency meeting of cabinet to present letter calling for dismissal of Ariel Sharon following Sharon's accusation...
Social/Economic/Political
Occupied Palestine/Israel: P.M. Peres tells Knesset govt. will take speedy and unhesitating action against Israeli settlers in the West Bank who called for civil...
Social/Economic/Political
Occupied Palestine/Israel: Ha'Aretz reports P.M. Peres has made secret power-sharing arrangements with King Hussein over how they might jointly control...
Social/Economic/Political
Occupied Palestine/Israel: Mayor Iliyas Furayj of Bethlehem and Hanna Siniora, editor of al-Fajr newspaper, leave separately for 'Amman for talks with "...
Social/Economic/Political
Occupied Palestine/Israel: P.M. Peres arrives in Washington for talks with Reagan administration [NYT, LAT 10/17]. MK Meir Kahane is granted "certificate of...
Social/Economic/Political
Occupied Palestine/Israel: Dir.Gen. of For. Min. David Kimche states in press briefing that Israeli intelligence has "absolute, complete and irrefutable proof'...
Social/Economic/Political
Arab World: Funerals of 2 Palestinians killed in Israel's air raid on Tunis spark anti-Israel demonstrations in Cairo. Hundreds of students shout anti-Israel and...
Social/Economic/Political
Arab World: Yasir Arafat leads thousands of moumers in funeral for 17 Palestinians buried in Tunis. Arafat accuses Pres. Reagan of complicity in the plot to...
Social/Economic/Political
Occupied Palestine/Israel: Al-Fajr reports Palestinian political prisoners in Asqalan and Jenin prisons begin open-ended hunger strike this week to...
Social/Economic/Political
Occupied Palestine/Israel: P.M. Peres tells group of senators Jordan should publicly state it is not formally at war with Israel, recognize Israel's right to exist...
Social/Economic/Political
Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli army bulldozes home of suspect accused of killing Israeli reservist one month earlier in Hebron's old market [JP, JTA 9/27]....
Social/Economic/Political
Arab World: Jerusalem Post quotes Arafat in al-Akhbar interview as saying he would negotiate with Israel only under UN auspices [JP 9/26].
...Social/Economic/Political
Occupied Palestine/Israel: Thousands demonstrate against MK Meir Kahane, drowning out his words, at Givatayim; Kahane threatens audience, leaves [JP 9/23].
...
Social/Economic/Political
Occupied Palestine/Israel: P.M.Peres outlines plan to "devolve" Israeli control of health, education, welfare, municipal services to Palestinians in occupied territories, says plan does not call for army withdrawal, would be temporary until negotiations began with Jordan [BG, NYT 2/13]. Israel and Ivory Coast formally renew diplomatic ties [BG, LT 2/13]. Thousands of demonstrators protest outside Kach party convention in Jerusalem [NYT, BG 2/13].
Other Countries: Forty-four U.S. senators ask Attorney General Edwin Meese III to indict Yasir Arafat for 4/2/73 murders of 2 U.S. diplomats in Sudan [WP, LAT 2/13].
Military Action
Occupied Palestine/Israel: Military command announces Israeli patrol boat fired on Turkish vessel which refused to stop 2/10, killing captain [JC 2/13].
Social/Economic/Political
Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli Northern District Commissioner Yisrael Koenig resigns "because various ministers had blocked court orders to destroy illegal building by Arabs." (Koenig gained notoriety for document 10 years ago urging drastic measures to restrict Palestinians in Israel, to Judaize the Galilee) [FJ 2/7]. East Jerusalem shuts down in strike protesting Israeli moves againsthe Haram al-Sharif in past weeks; strike coincides with call by Morocco-based Jerusalem Committee for 30-minute work stoppage in all Muslim countries [FJ 2/7].
Other Countries: Morris Draper begins tour of duty as U.S. Consul General in Jerusalem, replacing Wat Cluverius, who has been appointed special advisor on the M.E. peace process to Asst. Sec. of State Richard Murphy [JTA 2/6].
Military Action
Arab World: Bomb explodes in East Beirut, killing 10, wounding 21 [NYT, WP 2/4].
Social/Economic/Political
Occupied Palestine/Israel: The Observer (London) reports Israel and Iran cooperated in secret $1 billion arms-for-oil deal in 1977, codenamed "Operation Flower," in which Israel received Iranian funding to produce missiles capable of delivering nuclear weapons [OB 2/2]. Jewish Telegraphic Agency reports Irael will commemorate 7 U.S. astronauts killed on space shuttle Challenger with a 10,000-tree forest planted by Jewish National Fund in Jerusalem hills [JTA 2/3].
Social/Economic/Political
Occupied Palestine/Israel: Dr. 'Azmi Shu'aybi, 'Ali Abu Hilal, and Hasan 'Abd al-Jawad drop High Court appeal against deportation orders against them on grounds they cannot expect a reasonable decision [NYT 1/31]. Sephardi Chief Rabbi Mordechai Eliahu proposes erecting a synagogue on the Haram al-Sharif [JTA 1/31].
Arab World: Talks break down between Yasir Arafat, King Hussein after 5days of discussion on how to secure role for PLO in M.E. peace process; PLO will accept UN resolutions 242, 338 only if the U.S. recognizes Palestinian righto self-determination within context of Jordanian-Palestinian confederation, and if U.S. guarantees effective peace conference [WP, BG 1/31]. Arab League condemns U.S. economic, military pressures against Libya, rejects Libya's demand for economic retaliation [WP, LAT 1/31]. Anonymous phone caller claims responsibility on behalf of Abu Nidal group for 1/29 killing of 2 Israeli soldiers in West Bank [BG 1/31].
Other Countries: U.S. vetos UN Security Council resolution stating "provocative" visit by Israel MKs "violated the sanctity of the Haram al-Sharif" in Jerusalem; vote is 13-1, with 1 abstention [NYT 1/31; JTA 2/3]. Reagan administration postpones indefinitely proposed $1.9 billion arms sale to Jordan [LAT 1/31; NYT, WP 2/1]. United Jewish Appeal announces its 1985 campaign raised total of $637 million, a $51. 1 million increase over the year before [JTA 1/31].
Military Action
Occupied Palestine/Israel: Two gunmen open fire from a moving car outside Jerusalem's Old City, killing an Israeli undercover police detective investigating drug cases, injuring 2 others; 4 Palestinians are arrested [WP, NYT 1/31].
Social/Economic/Political
Arab World: Pres. Mubarak asks France to organize intl. conference on M.E. peace to contact "both parties" - Israel and the Palestinians - in preparation for real conference [NYT, JTA 1/30]. Mubarak holds talks with W. German officials [NYT 1/30].
Other Countries: British Foreign Office stops processing documents on behalf of Arab Boycott Office, following visit by P.M. Peres [JTA 1/30].
Military Action
Occupied Palestine/Israel: Gunman carrying Jordanian army papers crosses Jordan River, kills 2 Israeli soldiers on patrol, wounds 2 others before he is shot to death [NYT, LAT 1/30].
Arab World: Israeli warplanes bomb Palestinian guerrilla bases in S. Lebanon, killing at least 5, wounding 6; Israeli army states targets were 3 houses used by opposition PLO factions, including Abu Musa's Fateh faction, which claimed responsibility for 1/26 bombing of Jerusalem restaurant [WP, LAT 1/30]. Vacuum bombs were reportedly used in the raid [FJ 1/31].
Social/Economic/Political
Occupied Palestine/Israel: Group of Sephardi Jews announce founding of Committee for Israeli-Palestinian Dialogue, to counter generalization that Sephardim "hate the Arabs" [JP 1/27].
Arab World: Yasir Arafat, 9 other PLO officials meet for talks with King Hussein in Amman (first time in 3 months) [NYT 1/27]. Senior PLO official states PLO would only accept UN resolutions 242, 338 in return for "ironclad" guarantees from U.S. of PLO participation in M.E. peace conference and U.S. recognition of Palestinians' right to self-determination [NYT, WP, JP 1/27]. Pres. Husni Mubarak meets in Cairo with Israeli Cabinet member Ezer Weizman [CSM, JTA 1/29].
Military Action
Occupied PalestinelIsrael: Bomb explodes in Jerusalem restaurant, causing structural damage; 20 Palestinians are detained [JTA 1/27].
Social/Economic/Political
Occupied Palestine/Israel: Over 150 Palestinians, Israelis replant olive saplings uprooted by the Nature Reserves Authority 3 weeks ago, north of Jerusalem; 6 Israeli officials reportedly try to uproot some replanted saplings, army disperses both groups UP 1/26]. Israeli military delegation ends 5-day visit to Liberia for talks on "future cooperation" [JDW 1/25].
Arab World: Yasir Arafat arrives in Amman for talks with King Hussein [CSM 1/27]. Jordanian govt. sends parliament a new electoral law that would reassert Jordan's responsibility for the West Bank, provide representation for Palestinian refugees in Jordan; parliamentary legal committee is studying the law [NYT 1/26].
Other Countries: UN Undersecretary-General Brian Urquhart states PLO should accept UN resolutions 242, 338, that Israel should not dictate who represents Palestinians at peace talks [JP 1/26]. Interpol issues worldwide wanted notice for Abu Nidal [PI 1/31].
Military Action
Arab World: SLA shells Shi'ite village of Kafra in S. Lebanon, killing 1 UNIFIL soldier [NYT 1/26]. Libyan leader Col. Mu'ammar Qadhdhafi boards missile-bearing patrol boat, sails into Gulf of Sidra, 1 day after U.S. 6th Fleet began maneuvers off Libyan coast [WP 1/26].
Social/Economic/Political
Arab World: Fourteen-member al-Quds Committee concludes meetings in Morpcco with call for "Jihad in all its forms" until East Jerusalem, occupied territories are liberated [JP 1/24].
Other Countries: Italian prosecutors issue arrest warrant for Abu Nidal, charging him with mass murder in Rome airport attack [NYT 1/24].
Social/Economic/Political
Occupied Palestine/Israel: A senior Israeli official states P.M. Peres has proposed negotiating a settlement with Palestinian mayors in the occupied territories [CT 1/24]. Minister of Trade and Commerce Ariel Sharon and Time magazine reach out-of-court settlement in libel suit Sharon filed under Israeli law; Time apologizes, pays undisclosed amount of money [NYT, WP 1/23]. Israeli govt. agrees in principle to return $51 million to help U.S. meet budget cuts [JP 1/23].
Arab World: Al-Quds (Jerusalem) Committee set up by the 46-member Islamic Conference Organization meets in Morocco at request of Yasir Arafat, appeals for support in preventing further Israeli disruptions at Islamic shrines in East Jerusalem [JP 1/22; LT 1/23].
Other Countries: Security Council debates Moroccan, UAE resolution on "The Situation in the Occupied Arab Territories" in wake of confrontations at Haram al-Sharif; Egypt states Israel "must" withdraw from East Jerusalem, Palestinians in West Bank must have right to self-determination, Saudi Arabia warns of "wrath of hundreds of millions of Muslims" if "aggressions" continue [JP 1/22; JTA 1/23].
Social/Economic/Political
Occupied Palestine/Israel: Jerusalem Post reports family of 1 of 3 Israeli soldiers reported missing in action during Lebanon war received information their relative was alive, imprisoned by Syrians; families are being briefed in Paris. Israeli Army, Foreign Ministry deny knowledge of the report [JP 1/21]. Jerusalem city inspectors tell Knesset Interior Committee allegations of unlicensed construction on the Haram al-Sharif have been investigated, are baseless [JP 1/21]. Sephardi Chief Rabbi Mordechai Eliahu and Deputy Prime Minister David Levy inaugurate settlement in Dabboya building in heart of Hebron (where settlers have squatted since 1979) to provide permanent homes for dozens of settler families [JP 1/21; FJ 1/24].
Other Countries: U.S. Asst. Sec. of State Richard Murphy meets with P.M. Peres at The Hague, then shuttles back to London where King Hussein is staying [WP 1/21].
Social/Economic/Political
Occupied Palestine/Israel: Jerusalem Post reports nearly 2 dozen Nablus Palestinians have been detained, questioned for 2 weeks without charges on suspicion of involvement in land fraud scandal [JP 1/10]. Al-Fajr reports Israel's Land Administration and Green Patrol uprooted 6,000 olive and almond trees near Qattaneh village in past week; villagers are appealing to High Court for compensation [FJ 1/10].
Other Countries: British P.M. Thatcher states retaliatory or preemptive strikes to punish or prevent terrorism are "against international law" and a policy which could lead to "much greater chaos" [WP, LAT 1/11]. Jewish Week reports Jerry Falwell's new group, the Liberty Federation, advocates strong support for Israel, moving U.S. embassy to Jerusalem [JW 1/10]. W. German Interior Minister Karl Blecha states 2 forged passports used in Rome and Vienna airport attacks were taken from Tunisian workers in Libya last year [MG 1/11].
Social/Economic/Political
Occupied Palestine/Israel: Some 1,500 Palestinian political prisoners in Junayd, Jenin, Hebron prisons end 2-week hunger strike protesting poor prison conditions after director of Israel Prison Authority agrees to discuss prisoner demands immediately [MG, LT, J P 12/12; FJ 12/20]. U.S. investigators begin inquiry into Jonathan Pollard case in Jerusalem; Israelis impose complete news blackout on subject [JP 12/12; WP 12/13].
Social/Economic/Political
Occupied Palestine/Israel: "Committee to Confronthe Iron Fist" forms in Jerusalem to publicize human rights abuses in occupied territories, especially administrative detention, 8/4 reinstatement of deportation policies [FJ 1/3]. Lawyers representing Palestinian political prisoners hold press conference to publicize hunger strike being staged by 1,500 prisoners for past week to protest prison conditions [FJ 12/13]. Israel submits request for $3.5 million in economic and military aid for fiscal 1987, the largest request ever [WP, LAT 12/12]. First settlement under the unity govt. is opened at Migdalim, 1 of 6 such planned UTA 12/12]. Defense Min. Rabin states UN troops are no longer needed in S. Lebanon, security zone is well enough patrolled by SLA and Israel [WP 12/12].
Other Countries: U.S. investigative team headed by Abraham Sofaer, State Dept. legal advisor, arrives in Israel to question 2 Israeli diplomats and senior counterterrorism official in Jonathan Pollard spy case; team includes reps. of U.S. Attorney General, justice Dept., States Attorney for D.C., and FBI [NYT 12/12]. UN General Assembly passes resolution calling on Israel immediately to cease cooperation with South Africa, especially in military and nuclear realms. (U. S. and Israel vote against the resolution) [DW 12/13].
Social/Economic/Political
Occupied Palestine/Israel: Asst. Sec. of State Richard Murphy meets in Jerusalem with 9 leading Palestinians from the occupied territories in what is described as "routine" discussion of peace prospects. The 9 include Zafir al-Masri, Rashad al-Shawa, lliyas Furayj, and Hanna Siniora [JP, JTA 12/5; FJ 12/6]. Israeli authorities issue deportation order against Yunis Jabir Rajub from Dura village, near Hebron, stating he has been working for Abu Musa faction of Fateh since his release in 5/20 prisoner exchange [JP 12/5]. Avi Tzur and Claude Malka, former aides to former Agriculture Min. Michael Dekel, are arrested in connection with investigation into fraudulent West Bank land sales [JP 12/5]. Pres. Chaim Herzog addresses Israeli Communist party convention in Haifa, the first Israeli president to do so [LT 12/5].
Arab World: Boston Globe reports PLO leadership decided in last week's meeting that fighting units must now seek approval from PLO military council before conducting any operations; attacks will only be carried out in Israel and occupied territories [BG 12/4].
Other Countries: World Jewish Congress launches global campaign to persuade Vatican to give formal diplomatic recognition to Israel [JTA 12/5; WP 12/7]
Social/Economic/Political
Occupied Palestine/Israel: Jewish Press carries report stating P.M. Peres and King Hussein have met secretly to discuss M.E. peace prospects [JWP 11/22]. Jerusalem Post reports that Bir Zeit Municipal Council has elected new mayor, 'Isam Rabi'a, and asked the authorities to recognize him, after 3 years of refusing to cooperate with the civil administration. (Rabi'a is an engineer and member of the council) [JP 11/22].
Other Countries: Asst. Sec. of State Richard Murphy reports to Israeli officials in Jerusalem on results of Geneva summit meeting, indicates M.E. given low priority, issue of Soviet Jews discussed. Murphy flies to Cairo for more talks [BG 11/23; JP 11/24].
Social/Economic/Political
Occupied Palestine/Israel: Lod military court sentences 2 West Bank Palestinians to life for murder of Jewish couple near Jerusalem [WP, TS 11/22].
Arab World: Yasir Arafat and top aides, meeting in Baghdad, reiterate rejection of UN resolutions 242 and 338 [TS 11/22; MG 11/23].
Other Countries: Jonathan Jay Pollard, counterintelligence analyst for the U.S. Navy, is arrested by FBI on charges of spying and selling classified code information to Israel [NYT, WP 11/22].
Military Action
Arab World: Transmitters of the Christian Missionary Middle East Television station in S. Lebanon are blown up for second time in several months [JTA 11/25].
SociaL/Economic/Political
Occupied Palestine/Israel: Tel Aviv court sentences 16-year-old Palestinian to 7 years for hiding bodies of 2 Israeli teachers slain near Jerusalem [LT 11/20]. Boston Globe reports over 70 military operations have been carried out against Israeli and SLA troops in S. Lebanon security zone in first 2 weeks of November; Israel recently staged 10-day blockade on port of Tyre, shelled Tyre and 6 other villages north of security zone with heavy artillery and tank fire on 11/18 [BG 11/19; WP 11/21].
Other Countries: U.S. officials deny U.S. has changed position on PLO recognition of Israel's right to exist before it may participate in M.E. peace talks [JP 11/20]. Italian magistrates identify 16 Palestinians sought in hijacking of Achille Lauro [NYT 11/20].
Military Action
Arab World: Israeli fighter jets on routine flight over Lebanon shoot down 2 Syrian MIG-23s in Syrian air space after they try to approach the Israeli aircraft, according to commander of Israeli air force [NYT, WP, JP 11/20].
Social/Economic/Political
Occupied Palestine/Israel: P.M. Peres calls for emergency meeting of cabinet to present letter calling for dismissal of Ariel Sharon following Sharon's accusation that Labor party has cost Israel "a great deal of blood" and implications Peres would negotiate with the PLO and return the Golan Heights. Peres rejects aletter of apology from Sharon for the remarks. Likud members threaten to pull out of the coalition if Peres carries out the dismissal [BG, PI, NYT 11/14; WP 11/15].
Arab World: Jordan and Syria conclude 2 days of reconciliation talks pledging to work towards "joint Arab action" in M.E. peace process [WP, BG 11/14]. Manchester Guardian reports Egypt agrees to renew negotiations with Israel over Taba dispute; Israeli officials state resumption of talks could have positive effect on attempts to hold direct negotiations between Israel and Jordan [MG 11/13].
Other Countries: Mayor Tom Bradley of Los Angeles leaves Jerusalem for 'Amman bearing special message from P.M. Peres to King Hussein [LT 11/13].
Social/Economic/Political
Occupied Palestine/Israel: P.M. Peres tells Knesset govt. will take speedy and unhesitating action against Israeli settlers in the West Bank who called for civil disobedience to oppose exchange of land for peace [NYT 11/7]. MK Muhammad Mi'ari appeals to High Court to overturn 10/15 Knesset decision to limit his parliamentary immunity [JP 11/7].
Other Countries: Italian P.M. Bettino Craxi defends right of PLO to "resort to arms," setting off uproar in parliament; he later wins vote of confidence [NYT 11/7].
Military Action
Occupied Palestine/Israel: Two Israelis are wounded by gunfire in Bidu village outside Jerusalem [JP 11/7].
Other Countries: Israeli and U.S. personnel stage mock evacuation of wounded U.S. troops as part of a medical cooperation agreement [JP 11/7].
Social/Economic/Political
Occupied Palestine/Israel: Ha'Aretz reports P.M. Peres has made secret power-sharing arrangements with King Hussein over how they might jointly control the West Bank in the event of a peace settlement. Peres denies the existence of such an agreement [CT, LAT 11/1]. London Times reports Israeli disciplinary court has cleared 2 Shin Bet agents in the beating death of 2 Palestinians who hijacked a bus in the Gaza Strip last April; govt. inquiry said it could not establish who struck the fatal blows which killed the 2 during interrogation following their arrest [LT 10/29].
Arab World: Yasir Arafat holds press conference in midst of meetings with Jordanian officials, states Jordan and the PLO agree to set up permanent joint committee to coordinatefforts in M.E. peace efforts [LT 10/30]. Arafat rejects U.S. conditions for his participation in M.E. peace negotiations, defends armed resistance against Israel as legitimate activity against occupying power [NYT, BG 10/30]. Two top Fateh officials arrive in Cairo for talks aimed at healing rifts over Achille Lauro hijacking, prepare for upcoming visit by Yasir Arafat [FT 10/31].
Other Countries: U.S. State Dept. announces Wat Cluverius, U.S. consul general in Jerusalem since 1983, has been named senior advisor to Asst. Sec. of State for M.E. Affairs Richard Murphy. Cluverius is replaced by Morris Draper, former deputy to former M.E. envoy Philip Habib [WP, LAT 10/30]. U.S. Sen. Appropriations Subcommittee approves fiscal foreign aid program which includes $531 million to ease high interest charges facing Israel on past U.S. loans [WSJ 10/30].
Military Action
Occupied Palestine/Israel: Jerusalem Post reports unidentified gunmen apparently infiltrated from Egyptian territory and attacked IDF patrol last week near moshav in the Negev; no injuries reported UP 10/29].
Arab World: Jordanian jets accidentally overfly Israel and Syria, drawing Syrian missile fire, return unharmed. Israeli military describes it as "a local incident, simply a mistake" [WP 10/30].
Social/Economic/Political
Occupied Palestine/Israel: Mayor Iliyas Furayj of Bethlehem and Hanna Siniora, editor of al-Fajr newspaper, leave separately for 'Amman for talks with "very high up people"; Furayj says he will discuss "municipal matters," Siniora says he will discuss "how we can repair the damage between the Jordanians and the Palestinians" [LT 10/25]. Finance Min. Yitzhak Moda'i states plans for 6 new settlements in the W. Bank will not be implemented despite his earlier statements to that effect [JP 10/25]. Negev Bedouin refuse to elect delegation to represent them on Supreme Committee on Bedouin Affairs, chaired by advisor on Arab affairs Yosef Ganat [JP 10/25]. Ariel Sharon states in TV interview Jordan must remove PLO bases from its territory as condition for negotiating with Israel [MG 10/25].
Arab World: King Hussein meets with Pres. Mubarak in 'Amman to discuss Peres' proposals for direct talks. Hussein states at press conference that U.S. Congress will not force him to negotiate directly with Israel by delaying arms sales to Jordan [NYT, CSM 10/25]. Al-Quds newspaper in Jerusalem reports Jordan has ordered several PLO offices in 'Amman closed, ordered staff reductions at others, and has refused permission to enter to several PLO commanders, including the head of Fateh's Force 17, Abu Tayyib, and Muhammad Milham, PLO Executive Committee member who refused to sign statement prepared by Brit. For. Min. denouncing use of violence and recognizing Israel's right to exist. (Move follows Arafat's recent cancellation of trip to 'Amman, reported failure of Arafat's deputy Khaled al-Hasan to reach understanding during recent talks with King Hussein on breakdown in talks with British For. Min.). Jordanian army units are reportedly strengthened near PLO camps [JP, FJ 10/25; LT 10/271]. Reports indicate Bishop Iliyas Khuri, PLO Executive Committee member, has signaled his wish to resign over embarrassment due to recent cancellation of talks with British Foreign Ministry [JP 10/25].
Other Countries: State Dept. announces Asst. Sec. of State Richard Murphy made unpublicized trip to Jordan this week to give King Hussein private assurances from P.M. Peres about sincere desire for negotiations. Murphy then flies to New York for talks with Shultz, and later joins Shultz in talks with Peres [NYT 10/25]. U.S. Senate votes 97 to 1 to postpone Pres. Reagan's proposed $1.9 billion arms sale to Jordan until 1 March unless Jordan begins direct peace negotiations with Israel before then [WP, PI 10/25]. Hussein charges U.S. with "reneging" and "blackmail" [WP 10/25]. European Parliament votes to back "with all its available means" P.M. Shimon Peres' peace plan; resolution calls for recognition of the PLO as the representative of the Palestinian people, calls for PLO participation in peace process. Resolution proposed by Socialist group, backed by Italian Communists [JTA 10/25]. French For. Min. Roland Dumas temporarily postpones upcoming visit to Israel to express "displeasure" over 10/1 Israeli air strike on PLO base in Tunis [JTA 10/25].
Military Action
Occupied Palestine/Israel: Shots are fired at Israeli motorist on Jerusalem-Jericho road as he changes a flat. Area is curfewed; no arrests made [JP 10/25].
Social/Economic/Political
Occupied Palestine/Israel: P.M. Peres arrives in Washington for talks with Reagan administration [NYT, LAT 10/17]. MK Meir Kahane is granted "certificate of identity" by U.S. consulate in Jerusalem [WP 10/17]. Knesset members walk out during half-hour speech by MK Meir Kahane in which he condemns Education Ministry's plans to sponsor meetings between Israeli and Palestinian students [JP 10/17].
Arab World: Tunisian Pres. Habib Bourguiba is reportedly at odds with most of his main advisors over whether to allow the PLO to retain its political headquarters in Tunis; Bourguiba is said to favor having the PLO leave, while his cabinet is arguing for closer relations with the rest of the Arab world [NYT 10/17]. King Hussein cuts short vacation in Northern Scotland and holds talks with British Foreign Office Minister for the M.E. Timothy Reton following failure of British to meet 2 PLO officials. Hussein then returns to 'Amman for talks with the PLO [DT 10/17]. Egyptian pilot of intercepted plane states U.S. jet fighters threated to fire on him if he did not agree to land in Sicily [MG 10/17]. Anti-American demonstrations erupt in Cairo for 2nd time in 4 days; leaders of opposition parties meet with Mubarak to ask that he sever relations with the U.S. and Israel [LAT 10/17].
Other Countries: U.S. announces body of man found on Syrian coast has been "positively identified" as that of Leon Klinghoffer [NYT 10/17]. UN General Assembly rejects attempt by 18 Arab states to oust Israel from the assembly. Egypt, Jordan, and Oman do not join in the effort [NYT 10/17]. Italian govt. falls over Achille Lauro affair. Republican party of Defense Minister Giovanni Spadolini withdraws from coalition in protest of decision to let Muhammad 'Abbas go free [NYT 10/17]. Socialist International, meeting in Vienna, lambasts Irael for Tunis air raid; speakers from Labor and Social Democratic parties from 10 countries (including Austria, W. Germany, Italy, and Tunisia) condemn the raid. Statement is issued at conclusion calling for political negotiations without preconditions, stating "all parties involved in the conflict must take part" [JP 10/17]. Spain's consul-general says Spain is expected to establish diplomatic ties with Israel by 31 December 1985, the day Spain is scheduled to enter the EEC [JP 10/18].
Social/Economic/Political
Occupied Palestine/Israel: Dir.Gen. of For. Min. David Kimche states in press briefing that Israeli intelligence has "absolute, complete and irrefutable proof' that Yasir Arafat "knew about this [the Achille Lauro] operation before it was to begin" [WP, LAT 10/11]. Jerusalem Post reports arrest of members of alleged Fateh cell said to be responsible for recent spate of bombings in and around Jerusalem [JP 10/10]. Jerusalem Post cites report in al-Mithaq stating some Palestinian ex-prisoners released in the 5/20 prisoner exchange are asking for special consideration in their applications to West Bank universities; Najah U. has agreed to admit some despite low grades, while other universities have agreed to give them special entrance exams [JP 10/11]. Jerusalem shops close in general strike to protest "iron fist" policy in occupied territories which since its imposition in August has resulted in over 6 deaths, 21 deportations, over 80 administrative detentions without trial. Similar strike in Ramallah is forcibly ended by Israeli troops. Students at Birzeit and Bethlehem U. also strike [FJ 10/11].
Other Countries: Pres. Reagan tells reporters it would be "all right" for the PLO to try the 4 hijackers if Arafat has "kind of a national court set up, like a nation that they can bring them to justice." Later in the day, Nat. Sec. Adv. Robert McFarlane tells reporters Reagan "meant that he wants the PLO to tum these hijackers over to competent authorities for trial" [WP 10/11]. Sec. of St. George Shultz appeals to Senate Foreign Relations Committee to approve the proposed $1.9 billion arms sale to Jordan, calling it an "absolute necessity" for success in the M.E. peace process [CT, TS 10/1 1].
Military Action
Other Countries: U.S. Navy F-14 fighter jets intercept Egyptian plane carrying 4 hijackers and force it to land in Sicily; Italian authorities arrest the 4. White House spokesman Larry Speakes says the Egyptian plane was destined for Tunisia, but Tunisia had denied it landing rights. Speakes "categorically denies any deal" between the U.S. and Egypt on the interception. Speakes says the hijackers are in Italian custody but the U.S. will seek extradition [NYT, LAT 10/11]. Bodies of 2 men believed to be missing Israeli soldiers are found in Barcelona, Spain. Anonymous caller to Westem news agency claims the 2 were "Zionist sailors from the Zionist ship California" and that Fateh's Force 17 executed them on 10/5 [NYT 10/11].
Social/Economic/Political
Arab World: Funerals of 2 Palestinians killed in Israel's air raid on Tunis spark anti-Israel demonstrations in Cairo. Hundreds of students shout anti-Israel and anti-American slogans as the 2 are buried at the tomb of the unknown soldier in Cairo, where the families of the 2 men live [MG 10/8]. Pres. Mubarak sees Arafat's political advisor Hani al-Hasan in an unscheduled meeting; al-Hasan conveys thanks for Egypt's position on Israel's Tunis air raid [JP 10/8].
Other Countries: Diplomatic sources say the U.S. decided not to veto UN Sec. Counc. resolution condemning Israeli air raid because of fears Tunisian govt. would break diplomatic ties with the U.S. [LT 10/8; NYT 10/7].
Military Action
Occupied Palestine/Israel: WAFA news agency claims PLO responsibility for blast destroying Jerusalem apartment building, claims 20 killed, including Israeli lintelligence agents. Israeli police say 1 died and 11 were injured in the explosion, which was caused by a gas leak [TS 10/8].
Arab World: Four heavily armed Palestinians hijack an Italian cruise ship, the Achille Lauro, carrying 400 passengers off the shore of Egypt. Officials at Port Sa'id say the hijackers, who identify themselves as members of the Palestine Liberation Front, demand the release of 50 prisoners held in Israel, including Samir Qantari, in exchange for the ship's passengers; they threaten to blow up the ship if their demands are not met. Yasir Arafat denies any PLO responsibility in the hijacking, vows to try to use his influence to end it [NYT 10/8, 9; WP 10/9]. Fighting breaks out again around Sabra and Shatila refugee camps. Radio stations say the fighting is between Lebanese Muslim and Palestinian militias; Amal states it is an intemal Palestinian problem. Tankfire is used against the camps and at least 1 person is killed [FT, BG 10/8].
Social/Economic/Political
Arab World: Yasir Arafat leads thousands of moumers in funeral for 17 Palestinians buried in Tunis. Arafat accuses Pres. Reagan of complicity in the plot to assassinate him but vows to continue with peace process [NYT 10/6]. Tunisian Pres. Bourguiba praises U.S. abstention in UN Security Council condemnation of Israeli raid [BG 10/6]. Egyptian Minister of Culture Ahmad Haykal announces Israel will be barred from the 1986 Intemational Book Fair in Cairo to be held in January [BG 10/6].
Other Countries: Two thousand protesters in Paris demonstrate against Israel's 10/1 raid on PLO headquarters in Tunis. Similar demonstration is held in Bern, Switzerland [BG 10/6].
Military Action
Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli soldiers trap 5 Palestinian commandos in Hebron hills, kill 4 of them in shoot-out. Army announcement on 10/7 states that the group was responsible for killing 5 Israelis, wounding 18 others in last 17 months. A number of Palestinians in the area arrested on suspicion of aiding the cell UP 10/8; CSM 10/9]. Two Israelis missing since 10/2, Edna Harari, 22, and Mordechai Suissa, 28, are found shot to death near Jerusalem. A caller to a Westem news agency on 10/4 claims responsibility for the murders on behalf of Fateh's Force 17 [NYT, WP 10/6].
Arab World: Egyptian policeman fires his automatic gun at group of Israeli tourists, killing 8 (including his Egyptian commander) and wounding 4. Shooting occurs at checkpoint at Ras Bourka, 25 miles south of Egyptian-Israeli border crossing at Taba in the Sinai. Egyptian authorities say the policeman "went berserk" [NYT 10/6].
Social/Economic/Political
Occupied Palestine/Israel: Al-Fajr reports Palestinian political prisoners in Asqalan and Jenin prisons begin open-ended hunger strike this week to protest brutal actions by guards. Mothers and relatives of Asqalan prisoners continue their hunger strike at the Gaza Red Cross office; Israeli army threatens to disband their sit-in strike by force [FJ 10/4]. Al-Fajr daily prints obituary for Lt. Col. Muhammad al-Ghoul, the chief of security for the Tunis headquarters of the PLO killed in the 10/1 raid. Other reports mention death of Abu al-Tayyib, leader of Force 17, Arafat's bodyguard unit [BG 10/5].
Arab World: Tunisian civilians killed in 10/1 Israeli air raid on PLO headquarters in Tunis have been quietly buried to avoid anti-American backlash, Tunis announces; 60 died in the raid, including 12 Tunisian civilians [WP 10/5]. Tunisian police are deployed to prevent opposition parties from marching on the U.S. embassy [FT 10/5].
Other Countries: UN Sec. Council passes, by vote of 14-0 (with the U.S. abstaining), resolution condemning Israeli air raid on PLO headquarters in Tunis, urging member countries to "take measures to dissuade Israel from resorting to such acts," stating Tunisia's right to reparations. PLO rep. to the UN Zuhdi Tarzi accuses U.S. of "collusion" in the raid [LAT 10/5; NYT 10/6]. Two Palestinians and 1 Briton accused of the 9/25 murder of 3 Israelis in Lamaca appear before Cyprus court. Israel says the 3 are members of Fateh's Force 17, but Force 17 officials in Tunis deny they ordered the executions [DT 10/4]. Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev states Russia may reestablish diplomatic ties with Israel if there is movement toward overall settlement to the Arab-Israeli conflict [TS 10/5]. State Dept. announces MK Meir Kahane's U.S. citizenship has been revoked because of his membership in the Israeli Knesset [WP 10/5; JP 10/6].
Military Action
Occupied Palestine/Israel: Body of an Israeli, Haim Falah, who had been shot in the head, is found in the Galilee [MG 10/7]. Anonymous caller phones Western news agency in Jerusalem and claims responsibility on behalf of Fateh's Force 17 for killing 2 other Israelis near Jerusalem; their bodies have not yet been found [MG 10/7].
Arab World: Islamic Jihad organization delivers message and Polaroid photo to 2 Beirut newspapers stating they have executed William Buckley, political officer at the U. S. embassy held hostage since March 1984, in retaliation for Israel's 10/1 air raid on PLO headquarters in Tunis, in which they said the U.S. was involved. Buckley's body has not been found, and the claim is unconfirmed [LAT 10/4; LT 10/5].
Social/Economic/Political
Occupied Palestine/Israel: P.M. Peres tells group of senators Jordan should publicly state it is not formally at war with Israel, recognize Israel's right to exist [WP 10/4]. Def. Min. Yitzhak Rabin states Yasir Arafat was not intended as a target in the 10/1 raid on PLO headquarters in Tunis UTA 10/4]. Ethiopian Jewish immigrants to Israel end 4-week protest outside chief rabbinate offices in Jerusalem after P.M. Peres works out compromise whereby only certain couples whose Judaism is suspect will be required to undergo ritual conversion; the decision will be left to local rabbis [LAT, LT 10/4].
Arab World: Yasir Arafat's deputy Abu Jihad and Pres. Mubarak both vow to continue working for a M.E. peace despite Israel's 10/1 air raid on Tunis [CT 10/4]. PLO officials state they are certain the 3 Israelis killed 9/25 in Cyprus were Mossad agents working undercover [DT 10/4]. Armored vehicles and riot police protect U.S. embassy in Tunis after bomb threats and demonstrations against Reagan's announcement of approval for the Israeli raid [LAT, LT 10/4].
Other Countries: Senior State Dept. official says the U.S. has implicitly warned Israel against attacking PLO bases in Jordan [LAT 10/4].
Social/Economic/Political
Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli army bulldozes home of suspect accused of killing Israeli reservist one month earlier in Hebron's old market [JP, JTA 9/27]. Israeli court awards Ariel Sharon $2,000 for court costs in Israel in suit against Time magazine, rules Time defamed former defense minister [CSM 9/27]. Israel asks Cyprus to extradite 3 arrested in Lamaca for murder of 3 Israelis to Israel for trial [NYT 9/27]. Min. of Econ. and Planning Gad Ya'acobi reports an association of S. American businessmen interested ininvesting in Israel, particularly govt. -owned companies, is being formed UP 9/27]. High Court reduces jail sentence of Jewish underground defendant Gilad Peli from 10 to 4.5 years after he expressed remorse for his deeds and cooperated during the investigation [JP 9/27].
Military Action: Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli bus near Halhul is fired upon, injuring 7; curfew is imposed. Anonymous phone caller to Agence France Presse office in Jerusalem claims credit on behalf of Fateh's Force 17. Hundreds of Kiryat Arba settlers rampage through Halhul around midnight, smashing windows and cars, and attacking a mosque [JP 9/27, 29]. A roadside bomb is detonated by remote control on the Jerusalem-Ma'aleh Adumim highway asa car is passing; no injuries [JP 9/29]. Firebomb is thrown at another Egged bus as it passes Mt. Zion; no injuries [JTA 9/27]. Bomb explodes behind bus stop on Mt. Scopus, injuring 2;6 suspects arrested [JP 9/27].
Arab World: Israeli air force raids alleged Abu Musa base in Majdalun, Biqa' Valley, slightly injuring 1 [LT 9/28].
Social/Economic/Political
Arab World: Jerusalem Post quotes Arafat in al-Akhbar interview as saying he would negotiate with Israel only under UN auspices [JP 9/26].
Military Action
Occupied Palestine/Israel: Refugee camps of Balata, 'Askar, and 'Ain Bayt al-Ma' are put under curfew while Israeli soldiers round up and harass male residents; several men are beaten and one injured by rubber bullets [FJ 9/271].
Other Countries: Three gunmen, identified as 2 Arabs and 1 Briton, named Ian Michael Davison, seize private Israeli yacht in Lamaca, Cyprus for 10 hours, demand release of 20 Palestinians captured by Israeli navy patrols in 2 recent incidents, kill 3 Israelis they hold as hostages. Anonymous phone caller in Jerusalem claims responsibility on behalf of Fateh's Force 17, but PLO denies responsibility for the action. PLO office in Nicosia denounces the killings [NYT 9/26; LT 9/27; CSM 10/9]. Bomb rips through British Airways terminal in Rome, wounding 14. Hasan 'Atab, 16, from Shatila refugee camp in Lebanon and a member of the Revolutionary Organization of Socialist Muslims, is arrested and allegedly confesses to the deed [NYT 9/26].
Social/Economic/Political
Occupied Palestine/Israel: Thousands demonstrate against MK Meir Kahane, drowning out his words, at Givatayim; Kahane threatens audience, leaves [JP 9/23].
Military Action
Occupied Palestine/Israel: Booby-trapped van discovered in Jerusalem's ultra-Orthodox Mea Shearim quarter is defused; no injuries [JP 9/23]. Al-Am'ari refugee camp and 'Anabta town are put under curfew. Settlers reportedly joined Israeli soldiers' search-and-arrest campaign in al-Am'ari [FJ 9/27].
Arab World: Israeli forces shoot and kill 2 armed men near Hasbaya [JP 9/24]. Mines explode near wreckage of Israeli helicopter in Tyre, killing 1 Shi'ite militiaman and wounding 8 others [JP 9/24]. 107-mm. katyusha rocket fired at SLA strongpoint near Bint Jubayl; no injuries. UNIFIL dismantles 2 katyushas north of Marjayun. SLA dismantles 100-kilo bomb near 'Ayshe [JP 9/23].