The Palestine Chronology

In the West Bank, a Palestinian man succumbed to injuries sustained during the airstrikes on Tulkarm refugee camp on 11/17. Israeli settlers attacked and wounded several Palestinian farmers in Ramin and vandalized their cars. Israeli forces shot and killed a Palestinian during a raid in Aqrabat Jaber refugee camp. Israeli forces also violently dispersed Palestinians celebrating the release of prisoners near the Ofer Prison, injuring 3 with live ammunition, 4 with baton rounds, and 22 with tear gas. Meanwhile, Israeli forces shot and injured 5 Palestinian during raids in Nablus, Deir al-Ghusun, and Tuqu’. Israeli forces also punitively demolished the family home in Rumana of a Palestinian who was shot dead by Israeli police in Tel Aviv earlier this year after he allegedly shot and killed several Israelis. Elsewhere, Israeli forces assaulted 5 Palestinians, arresting them and seizing their vehicles at a flying checkpoint near Aqraba. Israeli forces also assaulted 2 Palestinians during a raid in Taqqou. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinians trying to reach the Haram al-Sharif compound from Wadi al-Juz, causing injuries from beatings and tear gas. Israeli forces also raided the homes of 3 Palestinian prisoners in Jabel Mukaber and Bayt Hanina, warning their families not to celebrate their release. In Gaza, before the ceasefire took effect (see below), Israeli forces raided the Indonesian Hospital, killing a wounded woman and injuring 3 others after shelling and destroying the first floor of the hospital. Israeli forces also bombed Nuseirat refugee camp, killing at least 27 people. After the ceasefire took effect, Israeli forces shot and killed 2 Palestinians and wounded 15 others who were trying to return to northern Gaza from the south. Israel said it would not allow Palestinians to return to the north. Israel also said it had completed its operation at al-Shifa Hospital, claiming it had destroyed tunnels. It was also reported that Israeli forces destroyed oxygen pipes and generators at the hospital. Rockets were fired at Israel prior to the ceasefire; no injuries were reported. In Lebanon, Israel shot down a surface-to-air missile fired at an Israeli drone. (AJ, AJ, AJ, AJ, HA, NYT, NYT, UNOCHA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 11/24; AJ, AJ 11/25; HA 11/27)

The Gaza Media Office did not update the casualty numbers, leaving the comprehensive death toll as of 11/23 at around 14,800 Palestinians, including 6,000 children and 4,000 women, and around 35,000 injured in Israeli airstrikes on Gaza since 10/7. At least 7,000 people were missing in rubble, including 1,700 children. 222 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces and settlers in the West Bank and East Jerusalem since 10/7, including 54 children. More than 2,885 people have been injured. Israel reported that 1,200 Israelis and foreign nationals have been killed and 5,431 have been injured since 10/7. 75 Israeli soldiers have been killed in Gaza since the ground invasion began on 10/27. Over 1.7 million Palestinians, more than 70% of the population of Gaza, have been displaced since 10/7. There has been a complete electricity blackout in Gaza since 10/12 due to the Israel blockade. As of 11/18, at least 45,000 housing units had been destroyed and 233,000 had been damaged in Israeli airstrikes since 10/7, constituting 60% of all housing units. 2 ambulances, 4 trucks carrying diesel, 4 trucks carrying cooking oil, and 137 trucks carrying aid entered Gaza via the Rafah crossing. The UN delivered flour to 2 UNRWA facilities in the north of Gaza, the first delivery of aid the north in more than 1 month. 40 people were evacuated from al-Ahli Baptist Hospital in Gaza City to a hospital in Khan Yunis. Al-Ahli started to admit new patients despite a lack of electricity and essential hospital supplies. Fewer than 400 people fled the northern part of Gaza to the south. 44 wounded Palestinians and their companions were evacuated to Egypt. Thousands of Palestinians stuck in Egypt began returning to Gaza. (AJ, HA, NYT, REU, UNOCHA, UNOCHA 11/24)

39 Palestinians were released from the Ofer Prison as part of the prisoner exchange, including 24 women and 15 children. 33 were released to the Beitunia checkpoint, while 6 were released to East Jerusalem. 13 Israelis, 10 Thai nationals, and 1 Filipino national held captive by Hamas were released to Israel via Egypt. Germany said 4 of the Israelis were also German nationals. The Thai and Filipino captives were released in a separate deal made between Hamas and Thailand, brokered by Iran. The director of the Schneider Children’s Medical center in Israel said the captives the hospital had received were in good physical condition. Hamas published videos of its militants handing over captives to the Red Cross. Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh said Hamas was committed to the ceasefire as long as Israel abides by the terms. Head of the Palestinian Prisoners’ Club Qadura Fares said Israel had violated the prisoner exchange terms by releasing 7 people who were arrested within the past year instead of prisoners who had been in prison for longer. The Prisoner’s Club also said Israel had imposed a ban on celebrating the release of Palestinian prisoners, imposing fines of $18,700 for public celebrations. (AJ, AJ, AJ, AJ, AJ, AJ, AJ, AP, AP, AX, HA, HA, NYT, NYT, NYT, NYT, NYT, NYT, NYT, NYT, REU, REU, REU, UNOCHA, WAFA, WAFA 11/24; AJ, AJ, AJ, HA, NYT, REU 11/25; HA 11/27)

UK foreign secretary David Cameron visited Ramallah, saying the UK has committed an additional $37.8 million in aid to Gaza. Cameron also said that Israel will not have long-term safety and security unless Palestinians have the same, calling settler violence “completely unacceptable” and urging Israel to prosecute the perpetrators. Cameron met with PA president Mahmoud Abbas, who called on the UK to help ensure that Israel will not succeed in separating the West Bank and Gaza or reoccupy it. PA prime minister Mohammed Shtayyeh also met with Cameron and met separately with the foreign ministers of Portugal and Slovenia. (HA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 11/24; AJ 11/25)

At a press conference held at the Rafah crossing, Spanish prime minister Pedro Sanchez said that a permanent ceasefire was required and said Spain may unilaterally recognize Palestine even if the EU does not. At the press conference, Belgian prime minister Alexander de Croo said “[w]ay too many people have died. The destruction of Gaza is unacceptable.” Israel subsequently summoned the Spanish and Belgian representatives in Israel for a reprimand, prompting Spain to do the same to the Israeli ambassador to Spain. Later in a meeting with de Croo and Sanchez in Cairo, Egyptian president Abdel Fattah el-Sisi called for the establishment of a demilitarized Palestinian state with UN, Arab, or NATO forces guaranteeing the peace. (AJ, AJ, AP, HA, HA, REU 11/24; AJ,  HA 11/25; HA 11/26)

U.S. president Joe Biden welcomed the release of the 24 captives from Gaza, saying that there was a chance that the temporary ceasefire could facilitate a longer ceasefire. (NYT 11/24)

European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen said at a press conference with Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau that there should be no forced displacement from occupied Palestine and that a reformed PA should govern Gaza and the West Bank. Von der Leyen also said settler violence had to stop. (HA 11/24)

An Israeli-owned cargo ship was attacked by a drone in the northern part of the Indian Ocean before the ceasefire agreement was implemented. The attack, which caused minor damage, was attributed to Iran by several media outlets. (AJ, AJ, HA, HA, REU 11/25)

Israeli allows 10,000 more Palestinian workers fr. Gaza into Israel, raising total number of permits issued fr. 25,000 to 35,000; allows more trucks carrying goods into, out of the self-rule areas through Israeli checkpoints. (QY 7/21 in FBIS 7/22; JP 7/27; WJW 8/1)

PSF releases `Abd al-Salam al-Hirbawi. (JMCC 7/21 in FBIS 7/22; WT 7/22; MEI 8/2) (see 7/20)

Under a deal brokered by Germany, Israel swaps bodies of 123 Arab militiamen for the remains of 2 IDF soldiers, Yossi Fink and Rahamim Alshaykh, who were captured by Hizballah in s. Lebanon in 2/86. Hizballah also frees 21 SLA mbrs. in return for 45 prisoners held in al-Khiyam prison. PM Netanyahu calls return of the dead "a step in the right direction." DM Mordechai thanks Iran, Lebanon, Syria for their cooperation. (IDF Radio, QY, RL, VOL 7/21, QY, RL 7/22 in FBIS 7/22; MM, NYT, WP, WT 7/22; MA, RMC 7/22 in FBIS 7/23; CSM, WT 7/23; JP 7/27; MM 8/2) (see 7/10)

Chmn. Arafat travels to Egypt, his first trip to Egypt since the deterioration of PLO-Egyptian relations during the Gulf crisis. (MEM 10/21)

At Tehran conference on Palestinian issue, PFLP-GC Gen. Secy. Ahmad Jibril states Palestinian delegates to peace conference have "sentenced themselves to death." Arguments break out between delegates supporting, opposing participation in peace conference, including verbal exchanges between anti-Arafat delegates such as Sa'id Musa Muragha (Abu Musa), head of Fateh-Uprising, and PLO representatives. (MEM 10/22)

National Committee of Heads of Local Arab Councils, made up of mayors of Palestinian communities in Israel, votes unanimously to strike 10/24 and stage protest in Jerusalem to draw attention to under-financing of Arab municipalities by Israeli authorities. Vote comes in wake of increased calls for action on the question and strikes by Arab municipal workers demanding payment of back wages [see 8/20]. (MEM 10/22)

Israel releases 14 Lebanese prisoners held in Khiyam prison, S. Lebanon. A 15th detainee was released in Israel and returned to Lebanon. Islamic Jihad for Palestine in turn releases American hostage Jesse Turner. Turner had been held captivie since January 1987, and is the fourth Western hostage to be released since the current comprehensive, multilateral prisoner-hostage negotiations began earlier this year. (MEM 10/21, 10/22)

Israeli jets bomb Hizbullah headquarters in Jibshit, S. Lebanon, in retaliation for 10/20 deaths of three Israeli troops. (MEM 10/21)

Meeting with Israeli leaders, Sec. Baker says Israel should consider series of fundamental compromises with Arabs if there is to be a peace conference; Baker gives P.M. Shamir list of possible concessions [NYT, LAT 4/20; IDF 4/19 in FBIS 4/19; MET 4/30].

Palestinian leaders hold news conference in Ramallah on questions of who will participate in talks with Sec. Baker [JTN 4/19 in FBIS 4/22].

Iraq makes public contents of 4/18 report given to UN: Baghdad says substantial arsenal of its chemical and ballistic weapons survived Gulf war, including 11,131 chemical warheads; Iraq also denies having nuclear arms, nuclear weapons-grade materials, or biological arns; U.S. says Iraq's inventory is incorrect [NYT, LAT 4/20; MET 4/30].

Blockade imposed on o.t. because of Sec. Baker's visit to Israel is lifted, allowing Palestinians to return to jobs over green line [JDS 4/19 in FBIS 4/19].

Lebanese media publishes results of public opinion poll conducted by Jerusalem's Arab Research Center: 55.34% of Palestinians now support confederation with Jordan, as opposed to 9.82% before Gulf war; 45.62% predict that PLO candidates would win majority of votes if elections were held in o.t. [MEM 4/19]. 

Sec. of State James Baker says U.S. "would be prepared to discuss the question of a United Nations observer team" going to O.T. when UN Sec. Council meets in Geneva on 5/25 [NYT, WP, WT, LAT 5/24; MEM 5/25].

European Community's exec. commission grants emergency aid of 500,000 ECU ($600,000) for Palestinian victims of violence in O.T. [MEM 5/24].

Israeli Maj. Gen. Matan Vilna'i, commander of Southern Command, orders stricter firing regulations in Gaza to reduce casualties; new orders give only senior commander of each sector authorization to allow firing of plastic or rubber bullets [MAA 5/24 in FBIS 5/25].

Mideast Mirror reports thousands of Palestinian workers have stayed away from their jobs since 5/20 killings, and renewal of communal tensions [MEM 5/ 23].

Pres. Bush telephones Pres. Mubarak to discuss recent events, especially Soviet Jewish emigration to Israel [MENA 5/ 23 in FBIS 5/24; MENA 5/25 in FBIS 5/ 25].

Ambassadors to Tunisia from France, Italy, and Ireland, and European Community meet with Arafat to discuss past week's violence in O.T. [KUNA 5/25 in FBIS 5/25].

General strike is observed in Lebanon; banks, other businesses, are closed in solidarity with Palestinians condemning 5/20 killings; demonstrations are held in Beirut [BDS 5/23 in FBIS 5/24].

Arab foreign ministers conclude presummit working session begun 5/22 in Baghdad, adopt agenda for 5/28 summit [INA 5/23 in FBIS 5/24].

Scattered anti-Israel demonstrations take place in and near Amman refugee camps; some 200 protestors are dispersed at Ministry of Interior [JTE 5/24, 5/25 in FBIS 5/25]; at least I person is killed, several injured [MEM 5/24].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: DM Rabin states recently-released Palestinian prisoners now residing in Occupied Palestine/Israel will be rearrested if commandos kidnap Israelis in the future for bargaining purposes [JP 5/22]. Amid calls by Likud bloc that the suspects be pardoned in wake of 5/20 release of Arab prisoners, Pres. Chaim Herzog states he will deal with clemency requests regarding the Jewish underground defendants only after sentencing [JP 5/23]. Settlers block Emmanuel-Jerusalem road protesting 5/19 attack on Israeli bus [JP 5/22].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: IDF arrest 42 Palestinians celebrating 5/20 release of prisoners by Israel [LM 5/23]. 3 residents of al-Fardis (all former prisoners released in 5/20 prisoner exchange) agree to leave village after some 50 residents of Tekoa settlement raid village, demanding their expulsion. Settlers also harass residents of Hebron, Qalqiliya [JP 5/22, 23].

Arab World: Action in Lebanon: Fighting continues between Amal, Lebanese Army's 6th Brigade and Palestinian fighters in Sabra, Shatila, Burj al-Barajneh; pro-Arafat and Abu Musa forces join together to defend camps; at least 30 killed; Nabih Berri states he will never permit return of armed Palestinians to S. Lebanon [NYT 5/22].

Social/Economic/Politica

l Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli cabinet agrees to withdraw IDF from Lebanon if Syria agrees not to advance its troops and UN and militia forces guarantee secure border. Israeli Army quartermaster gen. Erez grants 1-mo. amnesty to reservists to return estimated $250 million worth of stolen weapons, ammunition and equipment before arrests begin. Dir. Gen. of Finance Ministry Baruch resigns, charging govt. failing to take proper action to revive economy. Largest Israeli textile co. Ata offered for sale for 1 shekel, providing buyer assumes co.'s $25 million debt.

Arab World: In Kuwait, Chrmn. Arafat urges return of Egypt to Arab fold. Other Countries: US fiscal yr. ends with $2.61 billion official aid to Israel. Israeli diplomat replaces Mossad agent as Israeli amb. to Sri Lanka.

Social/Economic/Political:

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Defense commission inquiry reports 2 commandos, Subhi and Majdi Abu Juma'a, captured (4/12/84) in bus hijacking were bludgeoned to death by Israeli security men, full report censored and classified; DM Arens says neither he nor CoS Moshe Levy directly responsible, and "legal action" will be taken against those found responsible. Bulldozers working at night uproot olive trees belonging to Salah Abu Rajab, destroy wall of nearby Hajariyeh school. WZO Settlement co-chrmn. Drobles proposes new plan to attract Jews from Palestine coast to settle around Jerusalem and restrict Arab development, which he calls a "cancer." Jenin area melon growers report export permit delays caused 30% crop loss. Gaza military gov. orders 2450 dunums citrus groves closed to Beit Lahiya owners.

Military Action:

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Arab-owned cars in Halhoul & Habil Riyah, Hebron vandalized in night. Firebomb hurled at Kiryat Arba garbage truck, no injuries.

Arab World: Israeli troops sweep through several east Beqaa villages, arresting, cuffing and blindfolding scores of people, driving them off toward Galilee. Israeli patrol fired upon from speeding car in S. Lebanon, 1 Israeli wounded.

Social/Economic/Political:

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Former Stern Gang leader PM Shamir publicly denounces terrorism by Jewish settlers, and tells Knesset Israeli gov't. will not surrender its sovereignty over West Bank, but is ready to talk peace with any Arab leader. Reiterating that Israel considers Camp David only formula for settlement, PM Shamir rejects Chrmn. Arafat's call for peace conference under UN auspices.

Arab World: Lebanese amb. to Libya Farhat [dismissed by Libya when his gov't. signed agreement with Israel May 17, 1983] returns to his post. Egypt's FM Hassan Ali summons Israeli amb. Sassoon to protest Israel's "inhuman and illegal practices in occupied Arab territories".

Other Countries: In UN Security Council session, Zehdi Terzi accuses Israel of killing or wounding 60 refugees in its recent attack on Ain al-Hilweh camp, S. Lebanon. In effort to monitor Arab influence in US, American Jewish Congress pres. Mann announces nationwide push for legislation compelling colleges & universities to report sources of grants over $100,000 a year. Meeting with Israel's Science Minister, Thai Science Min. Lathopitat says he wants stronger industrial ties with Israel. After rash of complaints, British mail order house Freemans issues apology after accidentally shipping Israeli-made bras to Abu Dhabi.

Military Action:

Occupied Palestine/Israel: EL-OP unveils new ship-board air defense system Spirtas. Military court sentences 7 Nablus men charged with murder of Hebron settler; 4 get life, 3 get 20-25 years.

Arab World: 2 Katyushas fall in IDF-occupied territory near Ba'loul, east of Lake Karoun.

Social/Economic/Political:

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Palestinian Heritage Week festival exhibit destroyed in Bir Zeit U. fire; arson suspected. Israeli army denies any involvement in Ain al-Hilweh, S. Lebanon incidents (5/17/84).

Arab World: Muslim leaders march through Sabra refugee camp, protesting murder of Ain al-Hilweh refugees by Israeli-backed militia. Lebanon's PM Karami calls for united Lebanese effort to end Israeli occupation of S. Lebanon. Large rally held in Baalbek for Shi'ite soldiers, incuding Irani Revolutionary Guard. Thousands of Druze in Israeli-occupied Golan mark 40th anniversary of death of Nur al-Din Kanj Abu Salah, waving Syrian flags and shouting slogans of allegiance to Syria.

Other Countries: UN Security Council hears PLO complaint of Israeli attacks on S. Lebanon refugee camps in closed-door session. UNRWA spokesman in Vienna reports 1 killed, 20 injured in Israeli military operations in S. Lebanon refugee camp. Washington Post reports CIA director Casey allowed Israel access to sensitive satellite photographs. Pentagon officials confirm US & Israel working toward defense pact. Yeshiva U. Talmudic law prof. Rabbi Tendler decries arrests of Jewish terrorists and calls US Jews to their defense, claiming "a Jew . . . respects human life as no one else does." Fired from his Toronto congregation for denouncing Israeli invasion of Lebanon, Rabbi Slonim addresses Canadian Arab Federation, praying for better understanding between Arabs and Jews.

Social/Economic/Political:

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli-run Hebron municipality serves orders to Palestinian shopowners in building near Sultan's Pool to vacate as city is "repossessing" it. Israeli bulldozers begin work on access road to Elon Moreh site through Palestinian-owned land. Poll by Jewish-Arab center of Haifa U. shows 55% of Israeli Jews support preventing Arabs becoming majority in Palestine again; 49% urge gov't. to encourage Arabs to leave; 64% urge tightened control over Arabs; 65% believe Arabs can't be trusted. In response to reports of Iraq's use of chemical weapons, Min. of Science Neeman asserts "Arabs have always been known to have no scruples about using unconventional weapons."

Arab World: Syria expells UNRWA director in Damascus without explanation.

Military Action:

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Unknown assailant reportedly throws bomb at demonstrators in Gaza; 3 IDF soldiers, 7 Palestinians injured; local residents claim Arab victims shot by soldiers.

Arab World: Israeli troops open fire on car at road block near Saksakiyah, S. Lebanon, killing driver.

Social/Economic/Political:

Occupied Palestine/lIsrael: Police discover huge cache of weapons, including 107 grenades, 80 loaded magazines, mines, anti-tank bazooka shells and several dozen kilos of explosives in evacuated Palestinian village of Lifta near Jerusalem; suspected to be linked with "TNT" cells. MK Tsaban's motion to establish a committee of inquiry into the invasion of Lebanon defeated in Knesset vote (42-33). PM Shamir accuses Egypt of "tretreating from the Camp David framework, " citing Egypt's failure to return its ambassador to Israel. MK Rabin says PLO operations against Israel were "child's play" compared to Shi'ite "terror" against IDF in S. Lebanon. Chief of Staff Levy tells Foreign Affairs & Defense Com. 2,000 [Palestinian] "terrorists" have returned to Beirut, and IDF withdrawal from S. Lebanon would not guarantee Israel secure borders. 4 American-Israeli youths arrested for last Sunday's attack on Arab bus near Ramallah. 5 Galilee Palestinians arrested on prima facie evidence of membership in religiousnationalist organization that may have set fire to 30 vehicles in recent months. Nablus mayor Shaka'a rejects military authorities' conditions placed on his travel permit to US.

Other Countries: US amb. to OAS Middendorf affirms US and Israel have mutual strategic interests in Central America where a battle is being waged by "atheistic Communism to destroy our 'Judeo-Christian civilization'." "Moral Majority" leader Jerry Falwell reaffirms support for Israel before group at Herzl Institute, NY, stating Israel's best friends in US are "Bible-believing Christians" and US should not have interrupted Israel's "liberation" of Lebanon from Syrian and PLO "slavery." Rev. Jesse Jackson's US presidential campaign staff compile evidence of "hounding" by some Jewish-American organizations.

Military Action:

Occupied Palestine/Israel: 3 Israelis killed and 9 wounded in booby-trapped bomb explosion on bus near Ashdod; Abu Nidal's PDFLP-GC in Damascus claims responsibility; 150 Arab men rounded up as suspects.

SOCIAL/POLITICAL:

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Arab local councils in the Triangle and Galilee strike for 2 hours to demonstrate their severe fiscal problems. Ramallah lawyer Shukri Aboudi fined IS50,000 and given 6-month jail term on charges of membership in illegal organization.

Arab World: Gemayel informs opponents he will annul May 17 agreement in exchange for their participation in reconciliation talks.

Other Countries: King Hussein flies to London for talks with PM Thatcher and FM Howe. Chairman Arafat nominated for post of rector of Glasgow University by students, election March 5.

MILITARY ACTION:

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Jewish settlers break into home of 84-year-old Tulkarm man; chop off his finger when he refuses to sign over property to Israeli buyers.

Arab World: Advancing Druze militia discover 117 Druze corpses in Kfar Matta, S. Lebanon, massacred by Christian Phalange militia in 1983. Israeli tanks patrol north-coast highway to Damour demonstrating support for Phalangist takeover there. Israel-backed death-squad kills Shi'ite leader, Raghib Harb, while walking home in Jabsheet near Nabatiya.

SOCIAL/POLITICAL:

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Knesset vote defeats Shamir proposal to build a "Jewish Quarter" in Hebron. Israeli professor sends letter of protest to DM Arens concerning confiscation of books and arbitrary arrests of Arab students at Beer Sheba U.; Negev Human Rights Association presents petitions.

Other Countries: Chile refuses Israel's request to extradite former SS officer Walter Rauff for trial as Nazi war criminal in Israel. US Pres. Reagan declares he will ignore House resolution for US withdrawal from Lebanon.

SOCIAL/POLITICAL:

Occupied Palestine/Israel: 2 homes in Marj al-Dudeh near Yatta demolished without warning by Israeli military bulldozers, claiming buildings were not licensed; residents expelled. Nablus military court issues prison sentences of 2.5 to 4.4 years to 5 youths from Bidya villages believed to have thrown Molotov cocktails at Israeli and collaborators' cars. MK Shulamit Aloni discloses secret military document recommending Israeli withdrawal of IDF from Lebanon. Settlers from Ofra go on window-smashing rampage, damaging 10 cars belonging to Palestinians. 2 IDF grenade bombs discovered in Hebron synagogue by Arab workers doing repairs there; investigation directed to Israeli vigilante group, "TNT."

Other Countries: Int'l. Commission of Jurists (Geneva) accuses Israeli authorities of arresting Palestinian students without charge to prevent them from taking important exams. 

SOCIAL/POLITICAL:

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Bethlehem U. resumes classes after closure by Israeli military (11/2/83) during folklore festival there. Over 200 anti-Zionist Orthodox Jews protest corner-stone-laying ceremony at Emmanuel religious settlement; block 16 buses of Agudat Israel Party supporters planning to attend. In address to Israeli Federation of Contractors and Builders convention in Jerusalem, Shamir urges private builders to develop West Bank. Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Com. report new ultra-rightwing underground, stockpiling arms and planning to take over part of territories. Labor Federation leader Shehadeh Minawi released on IS5,000 bail after held for 24 hrs. on charges of arranging illegal conference in Jerusalem. About 20 S. Lebanon merchants meet with Israeli Industry and Trade Director in Jerusalem to discuss ways of improving trade.

Arab World: PLO Political Dep't. head Qaddoumi refuses proposal by some PLO Executive Com. members to replace Arafat. Mubarak warns new "strategic cooperation" will spell disaster for American friends in Arab world; other official Arab sources concur.

Other Countries: UK Labor Party dep. sec. Hattersley says his party admires Israel as "one of the greatest events of the 20th century," adding Labor's recent pro-PLO resolutions were only attempts to introduce "realism into the romantic." North American Palestinian community mtg. in Newark, NJ publicizes declaration reaffirming support for PLO and Arafat leadership.

MILITARY ACTION:

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Violent exchanges in Jerusalem between extremist Zionist cells injerusalem, Birkat Avraham, Torat Kohanim and Shuva Banim yeshivot and Arab residents of Muslim Quarter when several students spray tear gas in eyes of young Palestinian man near his shop; neighbors retaliate with barrage of stones.

Arab World: 24 US jets strike in Chouf mountains and Metn region, hit 6 villages; US claims retaliation for Syrian anti-aircraft fire against yesterday's US flights over Lebanon; 2 US planes downed, 1 airman killed, 1 captured by Syria. US Navy spokesman says US reevaluating Syrian military capabilities. 

SOCIAL/POLITICAL:

Occupied Palestine/lsrael: Energy Min. Moda'i urges Cabinet to authorize attempt to capture Arafat and top aides before leaving Tripoli. Israel denies US bombing raids part of joint plan with Israel. Anti- nuclear, ecumenical Bethlehem Peace Pilgrimage Group arrives in Haifa for last leg of 12,000 km trek from Bangor, WA, USA, to Bethlehem.

Arab World: Syrian FM calls for international and Arab action against aggressive US policy in Middle East. In Tripoli interview, Arafat says he wants PLO base in Cairo.

Other Countries: Bonn agrees to DM140 million loan to Israel for investment in high-tech development.

MILITARY ACTION:

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Molotov cocktail attack on Israeli military patrol in Nablus; curfews imposed on nearby Balata and Askar camps.

Arab World: US jets bomb Syrian positions in Kfar Salwan, Falougha, Hammana, Dahr al-Baidar, Jabal Knayset and Sofar in Lebanon; 2 jets downed. 8 Marines killed by militia, presumed by US to be Syrian- backed; 6th Fleet opens fire on militia positions.

Other Countries: Israeli embassy in Bankok bombed; attackers unidentified; Thai customs allerted to "suspicious Arabs" trying to leave the country. 

SOCIAL/POLITICAL:

Occupied Palestine/Israel: 2 Palestinian students arrested in Beer Sheba (Bir Sab'a) on charges of possessing banned printed material. Al-Fajr poll finds 94% of Palestinians in Israel support Arafat leadership. 200 residents of Dheisheh refugee camp near Bethlehem attend mtg. at UNRWA office to protest Israeli threat of camp school closure. Galilee priest, Fowzi Khouri, released on IS100,000 bail after 1 month detention on charges of contact with PLO. 

Arab World: Gemayel ends talks with Reagan admin. with no further commitments of US assistance. Second-ranking Druze official murdered in Beirut; Christian Phalange blamed.

Other Countries: 2 Israeli firms sign deals for 1st Israeli factory in Ciskei tribal homeland, S. Africa; Israeli trade there includes sale of American-made Mooney light planes for fledgeling Ciskei airforce plus military training. [Israel and Taiwan lead investment in S. African "Bantustans."] British High Court decides to refer Israel's protest at UK's refusal to sell it North Sea oil to European Court of Justice. UN Security Council considers Arafat's request for assistance in evacuating Tripoli.

MILITARY ACTION:

Occupied Palestine/Israel: 3 Palestinian workers shot for not stopping at Gaza checkpoint while driving to work in Israel. About 30 Birkat Avraham yeshiva students go on rampage armed with iron rods, smashing windows, injuring 2 Arab men; 3 Arabs and 2 Jews arrested and released. IDF uproots five dunums of fruit trees belonging to Palestinian farmers along Kfar Saba-Qalqilya road where IDF believes petrol bomb attacks on Israeli traffic launched; farmers not to be compensated and ordered not to replant.

Arab World: Heavy artillery exchanges in Tripoli between rival Palestinian forces as talks on evacuation of loyalists stall. Bazooka attack on Israeli army vehicle kills 1 IDF soldier in Lebanon.

Military Action:

Heavy artillery and rocket exchanges between Christian and Druse militias, shells fall on beaches north of Beirut.

Casualties:

7 IDF soldiers wounded in attack on APC; IDF shoots, kills 2 passengers in car that fails to heed roadblock south of Beirut, military commission appointed to inquire into incident.

Political Responses:

Israel/ Occupied Territories: Bank of Israel statistics show foreign debt has reached record $21 b., highest per capita in the world; 200 armed settlers hold rally in Hebron, call for Jewish settlement in center of all Arab towns.

Palestinians/ Lebanese: Arafat returns to Tunis from 3-day visit to Iraq, meets Cubans on mediating mission between Syria and Fateh.

Military Action:

US and Israeli officials in Beirut agree to demarcate formal boundary between their two forces, using brightly painted barrels; IDF reported using tactic of "reconnaissance by fire," driving along Sidon road and spraying the orchards with machine gun fire; 160 French marines added to French contingent in MNF, another 140 to follow; Syrian Press Agency in West Beirut shattered by bomb.

Political Responses:

Israel/ Occupied Territories: 10 new settlements under preparation, 30 awaiting approval; World Zionist Organization predicts population parity between Jews and Arabs in West Bank could be achieved with 1.4 million Jews by year 2010.

Palestinians/ Lebanese: PFLP leader George Habash tells Damascus press conference he will ask forthcoming PNC meeting in Algiers to reject Reagan plan and Arafat/ Hussein talks; Major Haddad tells press conference in Metulla that Lebanese government is too weak to guarantee agreement with Israel.

Arab Governments: Mubarak ends one day visit to France.

US and Other Countries: Reagan Administration reported to favor increased grant to loan ratio in $2.5 billion economic and military aid package for Israel; international commission headed by Sean MacBride announces findings that Israel's invasion of Lebanon violated international law and that Israel was involved in the "planning and preparation" of the Beirut massacres; in London, hearing continues on shooting of Israeli Ambassador Argov, currently hospitalized in Jerusalem suffering near total blindness and paralysis. 

Military Action:

IDF attacked twice in Sidon; fighting continues in Tripoli.

Casualties:

Tripoli death toll for weekend is 17.

Political Responses:

Israel/ Occupied Territories: Israeli Cabinet discusses fighting in Chouf, is briefed on Lebanese negotiations by Foreign Minister Shamir and David Kimche, hears of new security measures to be taken to reduce Israeli casualties in Lebanon; 3 members of Committee Against the War in Lebanon on trial for breach of peace after distributing leaflets in Haifa; Government agrees to 12% wage increase for public employees, averting general strike; official statistics show GNP did not increase in 1982, while real wages declined 3%; Begin's adviser on Arab Affairs Ben-yamin Gur-Arye says Begin will see if evacuation of Negev Bedouin families can be postponed; Bedouin township of Rahat forms labor council, the first in the Negev; Commission of Inquiry completes hearing of testimony, allowing Sharon to submit written answers instead of appearing for questioning; Moshe Reich, Israeli builder on West Bank, acquitted of blackmail, assault and threatened assault based on charges by Palestinians that he tried to force them to sell land; Jenin military governor warns Attorney Zuhair Jarrar not to complain to press about December 29 cut off of his electricity and water ordered by Israeli-appointed mayor Shihab Sanouri; Theodore Mann, chair of National Conference on Soviet Jews, announces 2,600 exit visas issued in 1982; PM Begin meets with relatives of Israeli prisoners, promises them no withdrawl of IDF from Lebanon until release of prisoners; Jerusalem police report series of raids on Jerusalem bookstores, seizing Palestinian flags, cassettes, T-shirts and other pro-PLO material.

Palestinians/ Lebanese: Rashid Karami appeals to Syria to send envoy to stop fighting in Tripoli.

Arab Governments: Saudi Arabia says British Foreign Secretary Pym not welcome to visit after Thatcher government refuses PLO representative in Arab League delegation; Iraq announces that Saddam Hussein told Congressman Stephen Solarz (D-NY) on August 25, he accepts Israelis' need for security.

Military Action:

Syrians and IDF exchange fire near Kfar Kuk; cease-fire holds in Chouf.

Casualties:

Several thousand residents of shanty towns protest last night's killings (Army keeps tanks and troop carriers nearby but halts razings; Amal says Gemayel broke promise not to raze buildings until other housing found); 1 IDF wounded near Kfar Kuk.

Political Responses:

Israel/ Occupied Territories: Gush Emunim announces plans to double Jewish population of West Bank and Gaza this year.

Palestinians/ Lebanese: PLO official Sartawi addresses World Jewish Congress memorial for Nahum Goldmann at personal invitation of Goldmann's widow (Israeli Embassy officials reportedly embarrassed).

Arab Governments: Egyptian Minister of State Ghali says Arabs should recognize Israel, calls for mutual PLO-Israeli recognition; Jordan, in talks with Arafat, urges PLO recognition of Israel; authoritative Syrian paper opposes PLO-Jordan link, denounces Arafat and Hussein for discussing it.

US and Other Countries: US Administration refuses to receive PLO member as part of Arab delegation; Shultz says US will pull out of UN and cut off financial aid if Israel expelled; US announces withholding $8.5 million in response to International Atomic Energy Agency expelling Israel last month.

Military Action:

IDF attacks West Beirut by land, sea, air as IDF armored units advance on Palestinian areas on southern edge of city (negotiations broght to standstill; PLO puts up fierce resistance; all of West Beirut under rocket, artillery attack; offices of Wazzan, Lebanese Ministry of Information, Al-Nahar news-paper, UPI hit; Bristol, Commodore hotels hit; IDF takes up new positions in Lebanese army barracks, close to Bir Hassan-Kuwait Embassy junction; IDF tries to enter Sabra Shatila camps; IDF advances only 300-500 yards near Museum crossing); PLO fires on IDF forces backed up in East Beirut, shelling Ashrafiya, Yarze and Baabda areas.

Casualties:

Casualties estimated in hundreds, 80 percent civilian (American University Hospital alone receives 55 dead, 200 wounded; Beirut radio reports 300 killed, 670 wounded); fires rage throughout town; IDF maintains tight blockade; streets of East Beirut deserted; Islamic Asylum hit for third time; rescue capabilities deteriorate as fuel in short supply; only 80 firemen remain working (many casualties left to die in rubble); 19 IDF soldiers killed; 50 killed in East Beirut.

Political Responses:

Israel/ Occupied Territories: Begin tells 190 United Jewish Appeal contributors war will end soon because PLO cannot hold out., angrily attacks reported Percy statement asking Reagan to "bring Israel to its knees."

Palestinians/ Lebanese: Sarkis accuses Habib of stalling to allow IDF time to finish off PLO; volunteers in thousands flock to fight with PLO (most in eastern Lebanon).

Arab Govemments: Egyptian Ambassador to Israel called home "for consultations"; Egypt may not maintain diplomatic relations with Israel if IDF makes full-scale attack on Beirut.

Political Responses:

US and Other Countries: Reagan cables strong protest to Begin, saying attacks undermine Habib efforts (White House issues statement emphasizing necessity of re-establishing cease-fire); US discusses possible sanctions against Israel for first time in crisis management group and at session of National Security Council; France protests to IDF regarding attacks on embassy.

UN: Security Council draft resolution proposed by Spain, Jordan revised after US objections but still expected to be vetoed; Egypt, at UN, warns that Israeli actions threaten Camp David Accords.

Military Action:

Israeli gunboats shell Palestinian areas in Beirut, hitting apartment buildings and killing 17; IDF advances in airport area; low-in-come Fakhani area "pulverized" by IDF jets; AP reports 50 buildings damaged in Corniche Mazraa area; blood-stained residents seen wandering in the streets in state of shock; IDF aerial and ground assaults on Syrian positions east of city, in apparent attempt to seize all major ridges overlooking Bekaa; IDF seizes Bhamdoun, severs Damascus highway cutting off Syrian units in Beirut, Syrian forces withdraw to Aley; IDF heavily bombs Chtaura.

Casualties:

West Beirut water cut to 4 hours every 2 days; garbage rots and typhoid cases reported; electricity cut to 4 hours/day; telephone lines and underground cables cut, reportedly by IDF saboteurs; hundreds of US and Lebanese citizens evacuated throughout day from Beirut; US Senate completes emergency ac-tion on $50 m. aid to Lebanon; ICRC says there are 10,000 displaced persons around Baalbek in eastern Bekaa, 8,000 without water, many camped in town's 11 schools; Caritas-Liban puts urban displaced within Beirut alone at 70,000, not including Palestinians and Lebanese who have crossed into Phalangist-held areas; 60 people die in car bomb explosion; 20 killed, 50 wounded in latest bombings.

Political Responses:

Israel/Occupied Territories: Israeli soldiers begin to question why they are so deep inside Lebanon as soldiers returning from front reportedly very depressed; Israeli casualty totals not released for past week; an Israeli Cabinet member states Israel's humanitarian aid meant only for indigenous Lebanese, not Palestinians; Sharon says 25-mile security zone is only Israel's minimum goal; Cabinet reportedly reviewing options on invasion of Beirut; Operation Peace for Galilee now Israel's longest war since 1948-49.

Palestinians/Lebanese: Habib continues meetings, but little hope expressed; Sarkis calls Saudi King, supports Arab League Foreign Ministers meeting before full summit; re- ports that Camille Chamoun, at beginning of war, acknowledged Israeli military aid to Phalangists during the civil war of 1975-76; Jumblatt expresses fear PLO may fragment, "go terrorist," calls Council "cosmetic."

Arab Governments: Syria sends 10-12,000 more troops into Lebanon in past week; 5 SAM batteries installed just inside Syrian border; Mubarak and Lebanese Ambassador to US call for stronger US response.

US and Other Countries: US Senate completes emergency action on $50 m. in aid to Lebanon; US reports Begin pledged IDF would not enter Beirut; 650 evacuated by US ship through Jounieh; US reportedly asks Euro-pean/Arab countries to persuade PLO to evacuate Beirut; Tass blames Egypt for invasion of Lebanon; Cuba calls for emergency session of UN General Assembly on Lebanon; Mitterrand calls for emergency session of Security Council.

UN: UN data indicates only one shelling of Israel from Lebanon since July 1981 cease-fire followed IDF bombing of Palestinian camps in Lebanon in June.