The Palestine Chronology

In the West Bank, a Palestinian man succumbs to injuries sustained in an Israeli drone strike on Jenin on 2/22. Israeli settlers raid Taybeh, kidnapping 3 elderly Palestinian farmers who are later released from a military base in Tarqumiyah. Israeli forces seize a bulldozer during a raid in Nabi Salih. In East Jerusalem, Israeli settlers tour the Haram al-Sharif compound. In Gaza, Israeli forces bomb Dayr al-Balah, Rafah, Khan Yunis, Gaza City, and al-Bureij refugee camp, killing at least 90 people. In Lebanon, Israeli forces bomb near Baalbek, killing 2 people and injuring 6 others. Israeli forces also bomb al-Sarira, Ayta ash Shab, Majadel, and Wadi al-Dalafa, killing at least 2 people in Majadil. Islamic Jihad says 2 of its fighters are killed in southern Lebanon. Hezbollah shoots down an Israeli drone using a surface-to-air missile and fires 60 Katyusha rockets at an Israeli military site. In Yemen, U.S. forces attack 6 sites. (AJ, AJ, AJ, AP, HA, NYT, NYT, REU, REU, REU, UNOCHA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 2/26; AP 2/27; UNOCHA 2/28)

More than 29,782 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces in Gaza, including at least 12,000 children and 7,200 women, and around 70,043 have been injured since 10/7/2023. At least 8,000 people are missing in rubble, including 1,700 children. 400 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces and settlers in the West Bank and East Jerusalem since 10/7/2023, including 102 children. More than 4,575 people have been injured. Israel reports that 1,139 Israelis and foreign nationals have been killed and 5,400 have been injured in Israel since 10/7/2023, including Israeli soldiers. In addition, 238 Israeli soldiers have been killed and 1,396 injured in Gaza since the ground invasion began on 10/27/2023. Over 1.93 million Palestinians, nearly 85% of the population of Gaza, have been displaced since 10/7/2023. There has been a complete electricity blackout in Gaza since 10/12/2023 due to the Israeli blockade. At least 70,000 housing units have been destroyed and 290,000 have been damaged in Israeli airstrikes since 10/7/2023, constituting over 60% of all housing units. 138 trucks carrying aid enter Gaza. Israel allows 10 trucks carrying aid to enter northern Gaza. Jordan and France airdrop aid to Gaza from 4 C-130 planes at 11 sites. The Red Crescent says it has suspended medical missions for the next 48 hours as it is unable to ensure the safety of its staff. (AJ, HA, UNOCHA, UNOCHA, WAFA, WAFA 2/26; AP, UNOCHA 2/27)

PA prime minister Mohammed Shtayyeh resigns on behalf of himself and the rest of the cabinet during the weekly cabinet meeting in Ramallah, saying “the next stage and its challenges require new governmental and political arrangements that take into account the new reality in Gaza and the need for a Palestinian-Palestinian consensus based on Palestinian unity.” Shtayyeh says he submitted his resignation to President Mahmoud Abbas on 2/20 but formally submitted his resignation in writing today. Abbas accepts the resignation of Shtayyeh and the rest of the cabinet, asking him and the rest of the ministers to stay on as caretakers until a new government is formed. Shtayyeh, who has been prime minister since March 2019, also cites the genocide in Gaza and the “unprecedent escalation in the West Bank and Jerusalem” as reasons for resigning. Before Shtayyeh’s resignation, over the weekend it was rumored that the Palestinian government would resign in order to facilitate the formation of a technocratic government to be led by the PA as requested by the U.S. (HA 2/25; AJ, AJ, AP, AX, HA, HA, NYT, REU, REU, WAFA, WAFA 2/26; AP, HA 2/27)

The New York Times reports that Israel has agreed to release 15 high-profile Palestinian prisoners in exchange for 5 female Israeli soldiers as part of the potential ceasefire deal. U.S. president Joe Biden says he hopes a ceasefire agreement can be reached by 3/4. Axios reports that Israeli military chief of staff Herzi Halevi and Shin Bet director Ronen Bar traveled to Egypt last week to assure the Egyptian government that Israel will take measures to prevent Palestinians from fleeing to Egypt during its planned invasion of Rafah. A delegation of Israeli officials arrive in Qatar for ceasefire talks. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant says Palestinians will not be allowed to return to northern Gaza until all Israeli captives are released. Jordanian foreign minister Ayman Safadi and U.S. secretary of state Antony Blinken discuss the ceasefire negotiations. (AJ, AP, AX, AX, HA, NYT, REU, REU 2/26; AJ, AP, AP, AX, HA, HA, NYT, REU 2/27)

Israeli industry minister Nir Barkat meets with Saudi minister of commerce Majid bin Abdullah Alkassabi on the sidelines of a World Trade Organization meeting in the UAE, saying the 2 countries can “make history together.” (AJ 2/26)

During the sixth and final day of the ICJ hearings on the legality of the Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories, the Arab League calls the occupation an “affront to international justice” and says Israel perpetrates “racial domination and apartheid” against Palestinians. Turkey, Zambia, Spain, Fiji, the Maldives, the African Union, and the OIC also present arguments. During the 6 days of hearings, only the U.S., Fiji, Hungary, and the UK spoke in favor of Israel’s argument that the court should not make a decision on the occupation while 50 other countries and organizations argued, to varying degrees, that the occupation is illegal and has to end. (AJ, AJ, AP, HA, NYT, NYT, REU, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 2/26; WAFA 2/27)

UN secretary-general Antonio Guterres says the UN Security Council’s “lack of unity on Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, and on Israel’s military operations in Gaza following the horrific terror attacks by Hamas on 7 October, has severely—perhaps fatally—undermined its authority,” calling for reform of the council. Arab diplomats meet with Guterres, warning him about Israeli plans to severely limit the number of worshippers allowed at the Haram al-Sharif compound during Ramadan. (AJ, AP, HA, REU, WAFA 2/26)

USAID administrator Samantha Power visits a World Food Programme warehouse in Jordan, saying only around 85 trucks carrying aid enter Gaza a day while around 500 are needed. (AJ, HA 2/26)

President Biden reiterates in an interview his previous claim that without Israel, Jews living throughout the world would not be safe. (AJ 2/27)

Israel submits a report on progress it has made since the ICJ issued provisional measures to alleviate the suffering of Palestinians in Gaza as part of the South African genocide case against Israel. Human Rights Watch says Israel has ignored the ICJ provisional measures and “in some ways even intensified its repression, including further blocking lifesaving aid.” Amnesty International also says Israel has failed to comply with the measures. (Airwars, AJ, HA, HA, WAFA 2/26; NYT 2/27)

EU high commissioner for foreign affairs Josep Borrell criticizes European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen in an interview with El Pais, saying her trip to Israel in October 2023 “with such a completely pro-Israeli position, without representing anyone but herself in a matter of international politics, has carried a high geopolitical cost for Europe.” Borrell also says Israeli prime minister Benjamin “Netanyahu’s plans for Gaza are unacceptable. The seeds of hatred are being sown for generations. It is an open secret that the Israelis funded Hamas and played at dividing the Palestinians.” (AJ, EP 2/26)

19,012 artists sign an open letter calling on Israel to be banned from the Venice Biennale, saying there should not be a “genocide pavilion at the Venice Biennale.” Italian minister of culture Gennaro Sanguiliano rejects the call, saying the letter is “shameful.” The Biennale later issues a statement saying it would “not take into consideration any petition or call to exclude” countries. (AJ, ANGA, HA 2/26; AJ, AJ, REU 2/27; AP, NYT 2/28)

Palestinians clash with IDF in Hebron, Ramallah.  (WT 6/6)

IDF closes 4 entrances to Nur Shams r.c., nr. Tulkarm.  (UNRWA News 6/15)

Nabil Shaath says world community "moving very, very slowly" on aid to Palestinian self-rule areas, PLO needs "bridging measures."  $7 m. received of $2.4 b. in aid pledged, according to Shaath.  (Qol Yisra'el 6/5 in FBIS 6/6; WT 6/8)

GCC foreign ministers issue statement "welcom[ing]" 5/4 Cairo Agreement as "positive step" toward "comprehensive" solution to Arab-Israeli conflict.  (Saudi TV 6/5 in FBIS 6/6)

Conservative Labor MKs form "3d Way" lobby group to limit amount of o.t. land ceded to Palestinians.  Group includes Agriculture M Yaacov Tsur, Dep. DM Mordechai Gur, 19 of 44 Labor MKs.  Lobby opposes Palestinian state, return to 1967 borders.  Group's outline of future o.t. settlement resembles "Allon Plan" of 1970s.  (WT 6/6; WJW 6/9)

Official Lebanese sources say Syria, Iran pressuring Hizballah to cease firing katyushas at Israel.  Reports follow 6/4 visit of Iranian FM Ali Akbar Velayati to Damascus.  (WT 6/6)

Arab League, Organization of the Islamic Conference condemn recent Israeli attacks on southern Lebanon.  (MENA, SPA 6/5 in FBIS 6/6)

Russian Chief of Staff Col. Gen. Mikhail Kolesnikov opens 3-day visit to Syria. (WT 6/21)

22-hr. siege of house in Hebron, including firing of over 100 antitank rockets, ends with deaths of 4 Hamas militants (added to death previous day of pregnant woman). IDF use of roof of neighboring Mohtasseb Children's Hospital as firing position protested by residents, ICRC, human rights orgs. 18 Palestinians wounded by IDF in protests against siege. PLO Chmn. Arafat calls Secy. of State Christopher to demand end of IDF "aggression" against Palestinians. State Dept. expresses "concern" at incident. (MM, NYT, WP, WT 3/24)

IDF Chief of Staff Ehud Barak testifies to commission of inquiry on Hebron massacre, saying "it is reasonable to assume" that a settler firing a weapon is doing so in self-defense, but adds "In no case is there, nor can there be, an army order that says it is forbidden to shoot at a settler even if he is shooting at others or at you." (MM, NYT, WP 3/24)

Israel-PLO talks on deployment ofinternational force in Hebron resume in Cairo. (MM 3/23; NYT, WP 3/24)

U.S. envoy Dennis Ross meets for 3 hrs. in Damascus with Pres. Hafiz al-Asad, delivers message fr. Pres. Clinton. (MM 3/23)

20 katyushas fired into "security zone," killing 1 Lebanese woman in village of Rihan. (MM 3/23)

"Palestine Development and Investment Inc." launched at Amman ceremony. $200 m. company made up of 141 investors will invest in o.t. housing and industry. (MM 3/24)

Pres. Clinton refuses clemency for convicted Israeli spy Jonathan Pollard. (NYT, WP, WT 3/24)

Lebanese police issue warrants for arrest of 7 men, 2 women-including 4 mbrs. of LF elite assault unit-in 2/27 bombing of Maronite church in Zuq Mika'il. Police detain Fuad Malek, dep. leader of LF. Govt. issues decree dissolving party despite LF chief Samir Ja'ja"s denial of involvement. 5 of the suspects already arrested, including 3 LF security officers. (MM 3/23; NYT, WT 3/24; CSM 4/8)

Israeli-PLO security, civilian affairs comm. negotiations continue in Taba.  Security comm. discusses release of Palestinian prisoners, establishment of Palestinian police.  Israeli negotiator Gen. Amnon Shahak says draft paper on Palestinian police force "almost achieved."   Civilian Affairs comm. divides into subcoms. on electricity and civil planning, communications.  Palestinian negotiator Radwan Abu-Ayyash estimates cost of Palestinian broadcast network at $30 m.-$50 m. (MENA 2/16 in FBIS 2/16, 2/17; MM 2/16)

Bilateral Arab-Israeli talks resume in Washington. (Qol Yisra'el 2/16 in FBIS 2/16)

Egyptian State Broadcasting Authority renews official contact with Israeli Broadcasting Authority, broken during 1982 Lebanon war.  (MM 2/17; JP 2/26)

Higher Jordanian-Palestinian Comm. completes 2 days of mtgs. in Amman.  Jordanian Information M. Jawad al-Anani says PLO and Jordan have agreed on joint strategy in economic talks with Israel set for Paris.  Israel-Jordan joint economic comm. meets in Washington with U.S. participation. (RJ 2/16 in FBIS 2/16, 2/17; MM 2/16, 2/17)

AFP reports 1st all-Palestinian bank in o.t., "Commercial Bank of Palestine," will start operations 3/15 in Ramallah.  Bank, with capital of $14 m., is headed by businessman Suhail Jad`awn.  (AFP 2/16 in FBIS 2/17)

U.S. State Dept. announces Secy. of State Christopher will visit Middle East during 3/94. (MM 2/17)

PLO Chmn. Arafat accuses "Israeli officers" of condoning arms trade in o.t., warning flow of weapons "could lead to another Afghanistan among the Palestinians." (NYT 2/17)

IDF kills purported PFLP mbr. Najwan Mahmud Muhammad al-`Izza, 21, in Halhul, West Bank.  (MM 2/17) [CHALLENGE--2/15]

122-mm. katyusha rocket fired on northern Israel fr. southern Lebanon in 1st incident in 6 mos.  IDF blames attack on Palestinian opposition groups.  IDF tanks, artillery come to aid of SLA patrol ambushed by Hizballah.  Hizballah claims 12 SLA mbrs. killed or wounded.  (NYT, MM, WT 2/17; MM 2/18)

Israeli cabinet extends term of IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Ehud Barak to 1/95.  Barak had been set to retire 4/94.  (MM 2/16)

PM Rabin's spokesman Oded Ben-Ami defends allowing 30 elite IDF veterans to serve in Congo as advisers, denying soldiers are mercenaries.  Opponents cite Congolese civil war as reason to bar Israeli support of Brazzaville regime.  Press reports say over 2,000 IDF veterans have served in Africa since 1960s.  (NYT 2/17)

FRC mbrs. Yusuf Sha`ban, Salim Mahyub confess to killing Jordanian diplomat Na'ib al-Ma'aytah in Beirut 1/29.  Bassam Atiya, also arrested, denies involvement.  (RL 2/16 in FBIS 2/17; MM 2/17)

Israeli court convicts 4 banks--Leumi, Hapoalim, Discount, and Mizrahi--and 9 bank executives in connection with 10/83 stock market crash precipitated by news of banks propping up own stocks.  Crash cost $7 b. in Israeli govt. payments to investors.  (CSM 2/17)

U.S. Pres. Clinton, Saudi amb. Prince Bandar announce Saudia Airlines will purchase 50 U.S.-made Boeing 747 and McDonnell-Douglas MD-11, MD-80, and MD-90 commercial aircraft worth $6 b.  Deal will be financed in part through U.S. Export-Import Bank loan guarantees.  (CSM, NYT, MM, WT 2/17)

Alleged Hamas mbr. Shadi Muslih 'Isa, 18, attacks Israeli police officer, civilian at Erez crossing point, Gaza Strip, and is shot dead. (MM 11/16)

16-yr.-old Palestinian student Rami Ghazzawi killed when IDF fires on youths stoning settler cars in al-Birah. 3 other students wounded. (MM 11/16)

Settlers in Hebron riot, overturning stalls at fruit and vegetable market and attacking Palestinian cars. (MM 11/16)

Israeli Justice M. David Libai, at Maale Ephraim settlement, warns settlers that no one could "take the law into his own hands," says govt. "will have to subdue any attempt to have influence by illegal means." IDF states it will act "firmly and aggressively" to stop settler assaults, will use "reasonable force." (MM 11/16; NYT 11/17)

PM Rabin tells Secy. of State Christopher 12/13 deadline for implementation of DoP may not be met. (MM 11/16, 11/17)

Israeli-Palestinian talks on implementation of Gaza-Jericho provisions of DoP resume in Cairo. Israeli delegation led by IDF Dep. Chief of Staff Amnon Shahak, Palestinian by PLO official Nabil Shaath. (Cairo TV 11/16 in FBIS 11/17)

Israel-PLO economic talks in Paris chaired by Fin. M. Avraham Shohat and PEDRA DG Ahmad Qurai' establish 3 subcomms. on trade and labor, taxation and banking, and currency. Subcomms. are to meet 11/23-25 in Paris, heads of delegations on 11/25. (Qol Yisra'el 11/16 in FBIS 11/17; MM 11/17)

Central Bank of Jordan (CBJ) Gov. Muhammad al-Nabulsi says agreement reached with Palestinians to retain Jordanian dinar as o.t. currency, have CBJ supervise and monitor banking. (JTV 11/16 in FBIS 11/17)

Multilateral talks on Middle East environment end in Cairo with Israeli-Arab agreement on Gulf of Aqaba oil spills, dispute on Israeli nuclear waste, Jordan Valley land reclamation. Delegates fr. 40 countries, in 4th mtg., agree on 20 environmental projects. (MENA 11/16 in FBIS 11/17; MM 11/17)

Palestinian leaders in o.t., Jordan, "and elsewhere" submit memorandum to PLO Chmn. Arafat criticizing PLO performance, demanding reforms. (MM 11/17, al-Ray 11/18 in FBIS 11/18)

Knesset Golan caucus considers bill fr. Likud and NRP mbrs. to amend law annexing Golan to require majority of 80 MKs for any change in law. Labor mbrs. of caucus express sympathy with bill, which given current Knesset divisions would effectively bar negotiations with Syria. (MM 11/17)

Syrian VP Khaddam tells foreign correspondents PLO Chmn. Arafat "fell into a big trap" in signing DoP, notes "There are 4 million Palestinian refugees living outside the territories covered by the 'Gaza-Jericho First' agreement." Khaddam claims Arafat "abandoned coordination with the Arab parties," states "I believe the majority of the Palestinian people do not support the agreement." (MM 11/16; SARR 11/16 in FBIS 11/17)

Hizballah offensive on IDF and SLA; Katyusha barrages fired in "security zone," assaults on 2 IDF, 6 SLA posts. 12 SLA mbrs. taken prisoner, at least 2 IDF soldiers and 2 SLA mbrs. wounded. 1 Hizballah mbr. killed in attack. IAF bombs 3 Hizballah bases nr. Ba'labakk, knocks out radio antenna. "Black September 13 Brigades," Fateh group opposed to DoP, claims responsibility for katyusha barrage on Qiryat Shemona. (MM 11/16, 11/17; IDF Radio, AFP 11/16 in FBIS 11/17)

Turkish FM Hikmet Cetin, in interview with JP, says Syria behind Kurdish attacks in Turkey, Israel and Turkey should cooperate on counter-terrorism. (MM 11/16)

Israel Archaeologists Society calls for end to govt. Antiquities Authority search for scrolls in West Bank ("Operation Scroll"), saying search aims at denying Palestinian scholars access to materials and will complicate future Israeli cooperation with Palestinians and Jordan. (WT 11/17)

PLO Exec. Comm. rejects resignations of negotiators Faisal Husseini, Hanan Ashrawi, and Sa'eb Erakat, appoints them and 4 other mbrs. of delegation to official PLO steering committee. (NYT, WP, WT 8/13)

U.S. and Russia issue invitations for 11th round of Arab-Israeli peace talks, to be held in Washington at end of August. (NYT, WP, WT 8/13)

Egyptian FM 'Amr Musa, at press conference, claims there has been unfair criticism by Palestinians of Egyptian "interference" with Palestinian response to U.S. document, warns if it continues Egypt will reveal details of Palestinian dealings with Israel. PLO delivers message to Musa saying "Egypt did not exert any kind of pressure on the Palestinian leadership." Meanwhile, al-Sharq alAwsat publishes purported excerpts from Palestinian delegation's meeting before going to Tunis for consultations with PLO. "Excerpts" claim delegation protested PLO leadership's decision-making monopoly and "interference in everything," Egyptian "tutelage over the PLO leadership." Delegation spokeswoman Hanan Ashrawi denies reports, saying "We have never criticized the Egyptian position." (MM 8/12; Cairo Voice of the Arabs 8/15 in FBIS 8/16)

Syrian Pres. al-Asad, in interview with al-Safir, says "there was no deal" to end "Operation Accountability." He maintains there was "no sellout of the [Lebanese] resistance," and asserts the necessity "to preserve the resistance and to protect it." (MM 8/12)

Pres. Clinton, in meeting with Pope John Paul II in Denver, CO, expresses his "commitment and his support for full diplomatic relations" between the Vatican and Israel, according to U.S. amb. to Vatican Raymond W. Flynn. (WP 8/13)

Israeli settlers wind up 5 days of demonstrations against Rabin govt. with rally in Tel Aviv attended by "several thousand." Settlers' slogans include "Giving up the territories means katyushas on Tel Aviv," and "We won't move from the Golan." (JP 8/21)

Israeli govt. submits proposed amendment to Knesset that would permit contacts with the PLO. (Qol Yisra'el 11/30 in FBIS 12/1)

Ramallah-based Palestinian Public Opinion Research Center releases poll of 1,000 o.t. residents on peace process. 68% said the negotiations have "a chance" for achieving peace; 25% see no hope in negotiations, whatever the terms. 76% accept autonomy if it leads to Palestinian sovereignty, 61% say rejectionists have no reliable agenda to confront the peace process. (al-Fajr 12/1 in FBIS 12/3)

Peace Now releases o.t. demographic survey, concluding that settlement movement in o.t. has failed, with inflated govt. investment over the years resulting in a small number of settlers who only provoke violence. Yesha Council (of Jewish Communities in Judea, Samaria and Gaza) charges Peace Now with tailoring facts to fit their political orientation. (IDF Radio 11/30 in FBIS 12/1; MM 12/1)

Al-Quds al-Arabi publishes interview with Chmn. Arafat criticizing Syria for "adopting" the ten rejectionist factions, Iran and the Gulf states for supporting Hamas. (MM 12/1)

Katyusha rocket fired at IDF post in "security zone" (first such firing since 11/12), followed by bombardment of SLA positions north of zone. Israel, SLA shells Iqlim al-Tuffah region. (Radio Lebanon, VOL 12/1 in FBIS 12/1)

New York Times reports that Bush admin. began planning offensive campaign to remove Iraq from Kuwait as early as September 1990, despite public insistence that U.S. troops were to defend Saudi Arabia and enforce UN sanctions [NYT 3/3].

Allied officials and Iraqi refugees report chaos and near anarchy in Basra as Iraqi troops leaving Kuwait arrive [NYT, WP 3/3].

American officer reports that dozens of Iraqi tanks, perhaps lost and without communications, attacked U.S. troops in worse violation of cease-fire. American forces repel attack, destroying about 60 vehicles and capturing about 80 tanks and personnel carriers; there are no American casualties [NYT, WP 3/3].

Senior U.S. admin. officials say Washington wants to maintain much larger military presence in Gulf region than it had before Iraq invaded Kuwait in order to deter aggression against U.S. allies [NYT 3/3].

UN Sec. Council adopts, by 11-1 vote, resolution 686 which reaffirms, in more detail, cease-fire conditions imposed on Iraq (cf. 3/3) [WP, MEM 3/4].

PLO leadership meets in Tunis, calls for urgent" measures to halt attacks and arrests of Palestinians in Kuwait [TDS, AFP 3/3 in FBIS 3/4; AVP 3/3 in FBIS 3/5].

Lebanon's Pres. Hrawi warns in speech that Palestinian guerrillas will no longer be allowed to attack Israel from Lebanon: we will not tolerate the use of Katyusha rockets to provoke an invasion of this country. The liberation of Palestine cannot be fulfilled by the firing of Katyusha rockets" [NYT 3/4; MEM 3/5]. 

Social/Economic/Political

Arab World: Arab League Tripartite Committee on Lebanon opens meetings in Algiers to discuss ways to hasten resolution of Lebanese crisis [FBIS 1/16].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: 19-year-old Israeli soldier, Halit Avni, is stabbed in Jerusalem's Old City. Police detain 60 Palestinians for questioning [NYT 1/16; MET 1/23].

Arab World: Katyusha rockets fired from Lebanon land in Upper Galilee but cause no damage or injuries [MET 1/23].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: General strike is observed in the O.T. [FBIS 11/16]. Unified National Command of the intifada issues leaflet number 48 [FBIS 11/14].

Arab World: PLO Executive Committee meets in Tunis [FBIS 11/13].

Other Countries: U.S. Roman Catholic bishops unanimously approve policy statement declaring Palestinians have a right to an independent homeland that is balanced against Israel's right to secure borders [NYT, WP 11/10]. White House announces Pres. Bush will meet with P.M. Shamir on 11/15, during Shamir's visit to the U.S. [WP 11/10].

Military Action

Arab World: UNIFIL reports 27 Katyusha rockets are fired from Lebanon into Israel during the past 24 hours [FBIS 11/13]. 2 Israeli soldiers are wounded in the "security zone" in South Lebanon when a roadside charge explodes [FBIS 11/14].

Social/Economic/Political

Other Countries: UN Security Council resolution calling on Israel to "lift its siege" in O.T. is vetoed by U.S. The 14 other members of the Security Council voted for the resolution [NYT 11/8].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Army reports it has arrested Hamas members from Gaza Strip in connection with killing an Israeli soldier and kidnapping another [WP 11/8]. Israeli police commander recommends that six Israeli Arab police officers be tried for fatally shooting an 18-year-old W. Bank Palestinian at close range two weeks ago, then reporting that he was shot when he ran a roadblock [NYT 11/8]. 13-year-old Qalqiliyyah resident is shot, killed, 29 others are wounded, and 10 are detained in clash with border police; curfew is imposed on Qalqiliyyah; 28-year-old Palestinian in Nablus accused of collaboration is killed, another is wounded [FBIS 11/9].

Arab World: Israeli Air Force planes bomb Hizballah bases in South Lebanon; a Katyusha rocket is launched from Lebanon into the "security zone," no one is injured [FBIS 11/7].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: IDF spokesperson says army has drawn up long-term plan that assumes Israel will still occupy the W. Bank and Gaza in the year 2000 [WP 8/31; MET 9/12]. Israeli defense source says over the past 3 weeks IDF and Shin Bet have rounded up some 170 W. Bank Palestinians who "make up the backbone of the hard core leadership of the intifada in the W. Bank" [FBIS 9/1].

Arab World: Yasir Arafat arrives in Cairo for talks with President Hosni Mubarak and senior Egyptian officials [FBIS 8/30].

Other Countries: UN Security Council adopts resolution "deploring" Israel's deportation of Palestinians, and calls on Israel to respect the Geneva Convention in the O.T. [WP 8/31]. The resolution passes with 14 of 15 Security Council members voting for it; the U.S. abstains [FBIS 9/1; MET 9/12].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Two Israeli soldiers are wounded by stones in Khan Yunis. Classes for 10th and 11th grade students resume in the W. Bank. Curfew in Bayt Sahur is lifted, curfew is imposed on Dayr al-Balah. IDF Radio reports that the departure of workers for jobs in Israel is sporadic [FBIS 8/30]. Army reports 3 Katyusha rockets fired into the Galilee panhandle causing slight damage but no injuries, claims Hizballah is responsible [FBIS 8/311.

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Letter from Baker to Arens implying that continued settlement of O.T. may lead to cut off of U.S. aid is made public [FBIS 5/30].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: In Kifl Harith settlers shoot, kill 16-year-old Palestinian, wound 2, burn house. In Tall Palestinian is shot, killed while farming [FBIS 5/30]. In E. Jerusalem 18-year-old Palestinian from Hebron dies of wounds received 5/18. In Khan Yunis 37-year-old Palestinian suspected of collaboration is killed. At least 6 Palestinians are injured throughout O.T. [FBIS 5/31]. Guerrillas in S. Lebanon fire Katyusha rockets at Metulla, slightly injure Israeli baby [FBIS 5/30].

Arab World: In south Lebanon SLA, IDF patrol kills 2 guerrillas attempting to infiltrate Israel [FBIS 5/30].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israel lifts Anabta's curfew after 23 days [FBIS 5/3 1].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: In Duhayshah 8 Palestinians are hospitalized after clashes with troops, settlers. In Ramallah troops open fire, wound 4 Palestinians. At least 7 Palestinians are shot in Gaza [FJ 6/5].

Arab World: In south Lebanon Israeli troops shoot, kill Palestinian guerrillattempting to infiltrate Israel's northern border, 2 Israeli soldiers are injured; according to reports guerrillas launched Katyushas at Israeli town of Metulla [LAT 5/28, FBIS 5/30].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Palestinian shot, wounded when he allegedly tried to attack Israeli soldier in al-Burayj camp 3/4 dies in Gaza hospital [WP 3/6].

Other Countries: Sec. of State Shultz retums to U.S. from Middle East trip [NYT 3/6]. New York Times reports former Sec. of State Henry Kissinger urged Am. Jewish leaders to withhold criticism of Israel and voiced support for media ban in W. Bank and Gaza Strip and Israeli use of force [NYT 3/5]. Reagan administration endorses letter signed by 30 senators criticizing P.M. Shamir for rejection of land for peace formula [WP 3/8].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: IDF troops fire on demonstrators in Dahariyyah near Hebron, killing 2 Palestinians. In northem Israel, 4 Israelis are wounded by Katyusha rocket fired from S. Lebanon. Soldiers raid Jalazun refugee camp near Ramallah and arrest about 50 Palestinians [WP 3/6]. Troops conduct mass nighttime arrests in several W. Bank camps [FJ 3/13]. Palestinian youth is shot dead by Israeli troops during clash in Mazra'ah al-Sharqiyyah village [WQP 3/28]. In Qalandiya refugee camp, near Jerusalem, protesters attack IDF patrol with stones, Molotov cocktails [Fl 3/13]. Students demonstrate in Ramallah after failed attempt to enter Birzeit U. [Fl 3/13]. Clashes between Israeli troops and tire-burning Palestinians are reported in Ramallah, Qalqiliyyah, and Abu Dis village. At least 3 are injured by army gunfire in Jenin. Curfews are in force in Burayj, Dayr al-Balah, and 'Arrub camps, Khadir village, and Bani Na'im village [Fl 3/13].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: U. S. envoy Charles Hill meets with Israeli P. M. Shamir to discuss proposed international peace conference [LAT 8/13]. Fu'ad Ishkantna from Rafah is sentenced to 20 years imprisonment on charges of Fateh membership and building explosives; another Rafah resident, Nabil Ghazi Sha'th, receives 15-year sentence on similar charges [FJ 8/16]. Israeli authorities confiscate nearly 300 sheep in 'Ayn Malih in Jordan Valley area; sheep are returned after owner pays JD 900 fine [FJ 8/16]. Palestinian is arrested trying to enter Baytar Ilit settlement near Bethlehem [FJ 8/16].

Arab World: Egypt cancels media coverage of upcoming joint Egyptian-U.S. land, sea, and air military maneuvers [WP 8/11].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Katyusha rockets land in N. Israel and S. Lebanon security zone in 2d day of attacks [CSM 8/11].

Arab World: Israeli helicopter attack in Nabatiyyah region of S. Lebanon kills 1 Lebanese, wounds 2 others; retaliating Lebanese militiamen shoot, injure 6 Israeli soldiers in attack on Israeli-SLA post in security zone [WP 8/11; FJ 8/16].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Knesset votes in favor of continuing development and production of Lavi jet fighter [WP 8/12]. Dr. Thabit Ahmad Thabit, official of W. Bank dentists union, is released after 4 1/2-month administrative detention [FJ 8/16]. Israeli troops remove barbed wire barricades in Gaza City, allowing stores to reopen [FJ 8/16].

Other Countries: The Washington Post reports that in September 1985 Israel and U.S. attempted tolocate and rescue U.S. hostages in Beirut not released after arms shipments toIran [WP 8/9].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Palestinian and Lebanese groups claim responsibility for Katyusha rocket attacks on N. Israel and S. Lebanon security zone [CSM 8/11].

Arab World: Israeli helicopters raid Hizballah base near Tibninah, S. Lebanon [WP 8/10].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli authorities have arrested scores of West Bankers and 1 Gazan on charges of committing attacks that have wounded at least 8 Israelis; most of the suspects are said to belong to Fateh cells active in the Jerusalem and Ramallah areas, to have been responsible for series of bombings since last September [JP, JTA 3/24].

Arab World: Yasir Arafat repeats PLO offer to trade acceptance of UN resolutions 242 and 338, and therefore acceptance of Israel, in return for guarantees by the 5 permanent members of the UN Security Council of the Palestinians' rights to selfdetermination [BG 3/25]. Morocco's King Hasan proposes a summit conference between a chosen Arab leader and P.M. Peres to hear Israel's views on the Fez peace plan [JP 3/25].

Other Countries: U.S. is reportedly pressuring Israel to sell arms to Iraq, including Israeli "drone" reconnaissance aircraft and Soviet weapons captured by Israel during past wars with Arab neighbors [DT 3/24].

Military Action

Arab World: Lebanese state radio reports Israeli forces shelled Nabatiyyah, killing 3 civilians and wounding 22 [NYT 3/25]. Jerusalem Post reports the SLA shelled Nabatiyyah in response to 12 katyusha rockets that landed in "security zone" in early morning [JP 3/25].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli official states U.S. involvement in secret diplomatic contacts between Jordan, Egypt, and Israel is intensifying daily [WP, CSM 11/4].

Arab World: Jerusalem Post reports Israeli military expels 4 leading Druze shaykhs from village of Hasbaya in security zone in S. Lebanon [JP 11/3]. Israeli settlers in the Golan Heights block bridges leading there, stage demonstrations against their poor financial situation; settlements there owe $20 million to Northern Moshavim Purchasing Association [JP 11/3; JTA 11/4]. Institute for Strategic Studies in London annual report, Survey of Military Balances, states that Syria has almost 3 times as many troops in regular army as Israel [JP 11/3].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Bomb explodes in Afula (5th in recent weeks); no injuries. Palestinians are rounded up for questioning [JP 11/4]. Bomb goes off at bus stop near French Hill; no injuries [JP 11/4]. Katyusha rockets land in Galilee; no casualties [JTA 11/4].

Arab World: Three people trying to smuggle explosives into 'Aysha village in S. Lebanon using a donkey are killed when SLA militiamen open fire on them, detonating the explosives [JP 11/4]. 

Social/Economic/Political

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

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

Military Action

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

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

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: "Ma'aneh" (Response) established to oppose racism; members range from Mapam, Peace Now, to Likud, seek to outlaw Kach demonstrations, suspend Kahane from Knesset [JP 9/24]. High Court of Israel issues order allowing Israel radio to broadcast ads promoting settlement in Eli, in the West Bank; legality of ads to be determined at later date by panel of 3 judges [JP 9/24]. Pres. Mubarak meets Pres. Reagan in U.S., says PLO has already "implicitly" accepted U.S. terms for dialogue [NYT 9/24].

Other Countries: Speaking at opening session of UN General Assembly, Sec. of St. Shultz states U.S. admin. wants direct Arab-Israeli peace negotiations before end of the year [JP 9/24]. Near East Report states 40 congressmen recently sent letter to Pres. Reagan asking him to adhere to policy of not negotiating or recognizing the PLO [NER 9/23].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Nail bomb explodes outside Acre cafe, slightly injuring 1 passerby [JP 9/24]. 122-mm. katyusha lands 4 miles inside Galilee panhandle; no casualties,light damage [NYT 9/25].

Arab World: Israeli troops kill 2 guerrillas in S. Lebanon security belt [NYT 9/24].

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].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Am'ari camp placed under 2-day curfew following stoning and fire bomb aimed at army patrol [FJ 9/20].

Arab World: Jordanian P.M. Zayd Rifa'i and Syrian P.M. 'Abd al-Ra'uf Kasm meet in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia to discuss ways of mending differences and paving the way for an Arab summit conference. The talks are termed "highly positive" and the two prime ministers agree to meet again in October [WP 9/16; WP, FT 9/18].

Other Countries: The Reagan admin. criticizes Israel for deporting 18 Palestinians [BG 9/17].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Several katyusha rockets land in the Galilee panhandle before dawn, reportedly fired from outside the security zone in South Lebanon; no injuries or damage reported. The attack is the 4th in 3 weeks [JP, BG 9/18]. 

Social/Economic/Political

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

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

Military Action

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

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

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli military forces destroy homes of 2 suspected members of underground resistance cell allegedly uncovered in the West Bank village of Anabta. A third home is sealed. Military sources claim cell has been active since 1983, men were responsible for 2 shooting incidents involving a military jeep and a bus in which 2 people were wounded [JP 8/25]. Deputy P. M. David Levy and Trade and Industry Minister Ariel Sharon call for capital punishment in cases of politically motivated attacks resulting in murder, and deportation for Palestinians suspected of inciting anti-Israeli violence [PI 8/26]. Israel and Egypt initial agreement to further tourist traffic between the two [JTA 8/26].

Military Action

Arab World: Third katyusha in 48 hours lands inside Galilee panhandle, causing no injuries or damage [JP 8/26]. Artillery barrages break shaky Syrian-sponsored ceasefire in Beirut [PI 8/26].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: The Guardian reports 3 Israelis and 6 Palestinians have been detained in connection with land fraud investigation [MG 8/24]. Defense Minister Yitzhak Rabin warns Amal that Israel will not allow it to carry out attacks across the northern border [MG 8/25]. The Washington Post reports Knesset Internal Affairs Committee voted 7-4 to block construction of the Mormon Center on Mount of Olives [WP 8/24]. A new memorial, called the Center for Special Studies in the Memory of the Fallen of Israel's Intelligence Community, opens in Tel Aviv [NYT 8/25].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Andre Alush, 40, is shot and killed by lone gunman in Tulkarm. Curfew is imposed [WP 8/25]. Avi Oved, of Tiberias, is shot three times in the marketplace of Jenin. His condition is serious. Curfew is immediately imposed [WP 8/25]. Katyusha rocket fired from Lebanon falls in northern Israel, causing no casualties [WP 8/25].

Arab World: IDF carry out large-scale search operations in 3 south Lebanese villages: Qabrikha, Majd al-Salim, and Shaqra. Search follows firing of a katyusha into the Galilee earlier in the week. Several arrests are made and a variety of weapons seized [MG 8/25]. The Arab Socialist Ba'th party claims suicide bomber killed or wounded 60 at a SLA checkpoint; Israel's army radio says one Lebanese Christian soldier was killed and 2 others wounded [MG 8/25].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Hundreds of policemen and border police are sent to Afula to prevent another outbreak of violence. UP 7/28].

Arab World: King Hasan II of Morocco announces first Arab summit meeting in three years will be held in Casablanca 8/7. Meeting will cover ways of "remedying the Arab situation" and the Palestinian question, "in all its aspects" [NYT 7/28, MG 7/30].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Two katyusha rockets apparently fired from security zone land in the Galilee panhandle; there are no injuries [JP 7/28].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Peres orders attorney general to investigate Kiryat Arba's plan to fire all Palestinian workers. [FT 7/21]. Al-Fajr journalist Musa Jaradat receives fourth consecutive town arrest order, confining him to his town of Sa'ir, in the Hebron district, for another 6 months [FJ 7/26].

Military Action

Arab World: Israeli troops in helicopter gunships and armoured personnel carriers storm south Lebanese villages of Qabrikha and Sejoud, both inside the security zone, kill at least one, arrest several others, bum and loot property during house-to-house searches following bomb attack by guerrillas on SLA armored vehicle in a nearby village [WP, PI 7/22]. Israeli army announces it confiscated several katyusha rocket launchers during the raid [WP 7/22, JTA 7/23]. The Jerusalem Post reports 6 SLA soldiers disappeared from their posts last week and have apparently deserted to Amal [JP 7/21].

Social/Economic/Political

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

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

Military Action

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

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

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: In interview, US Ambassador Samuel Lewis states Cabinet Min. Ariel Sharon briefed US special envoy Philip Habib on IDF plans to drive PLO from Lebanon months before actual invasion [WP 5/24]. Police arrest Musa Adawi [released 5/20 during prisoner exchange] for "incitement" [JP 5/27].

Arab World: Syria accuses Chmn. Arafat of provoking Shi'ite-Palestinian battle in Beirut [NYT 5/23]. In Amman, Chmn. Arafat calls for intervention of UN Sec. Council in Beirut fighting [LT 5/23]. Fateh Deputy-in-Command Khalil al-Wazir (Abu Jihad) asserts Israel, PLO negotiating another release of Palestinian prisoners in return for bodies of IDF soldiers killed in Lebanon [FT 5/23].

Military Action

Arab World: Action in Lebanon: Palestinian fighters fire Katyusha rockets into Shi'ite areas S. of Beirut to relieve Amal's seige of Palestinian camps in Beirut; 34 killed in continuing battle [NYT 5/23, 24]. Shi'ite forces storm Gaza Hospital in Shatila camp, kill 25 patients [LT 5/26, NYT 5/27]. IDF evacuate Kafr Huna, Rihan, Mashghara, 'Aisheh, Farara [JP 5/23].