The Palestine Chronology

In the West Bank, Israeli forces shot and injured 1 Palestinian during clashes in Jericho. Israeli forces also sealed the entrance to Asira. Elsewhere, Israeli forces razed land in Jalud to expand a nearby settlement, and demolished residential tents and agricultural structures in Kisan. 5 Palestinians were arrested, including 2 who were shot by live ammunition and injured by Israeli forces near the entrance to Kafr Malik; 2 during raids in and around Jalazun refugee camp and Bayt Umar; and 1 at the Allenby border crossing. In East Jerusalem, 7 Palestinians were arrested in the Old City and Issawiyya. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 9/24; PCHR 10/1)

Fatah and Hamas leaders said they have agreed to the 1st Palestinian elections since 2006. Fatah official Jibril Rajoub said that “[w]e have agreed to first hold legislative elections, then presidential elections of the Palestinian Authority, and finally the central council of the Palestine Liberation Organization.” A member of the Fatah Central Committee also said that “[w]ithout Jerusalem, there will be no elections.” It is unclear how national elections will include East Jerusalem as Israel refuses to let Palestinian East Jerusalemites participate in Palestinian elections. The 2 factions also agreed to a common vision of action to end the dispute between the 2; the vision would be presented on 10/1. (AJ, HA, WAFA, WAFA 9/24)

Foreign ministers of Jordan, Germany, Egypt, and France held a joint press conference in Amman, calling for resumption of Palestinian-Israeli peace negotiations. The 4 foreign ministers also praised the UAE and Bahrain’s normalization deals with Israel. (AJ 9/24)

At the UN General Assembly, the king of Bahrain Hamad bin Isa al-Khalifa said, via video link, that Bahrain’s normalization of ties with Israel will help facilitate a 2-state solution and that Bahrain still adheres to the parameters stipulated in the Arab Peace Initiative. (AJ 9/24)

In the West Bank, IDF troops shoot and injure a Palestinian during a raid in c. Nablus. Less than an hour later, they shoot and injure a Palestinian photojournalist attempting to cover the story. The IDF also conducts raids in a village nr. Jenin, confiscating property and arresting 2 Palestinians; patrols in 2 villages nr. Jericho and 1 nr. Hebron. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 13 Palestinians on raids in the Old City and Ras al-Amud. (HA, MNA, WAFA 7/23; PCHR 7/30)

Israeli chief negotiator, Dep. PM Shalom meets with PLO secy.-gen. Erakat for “trustbuilding” talks in Amman. They present initial proposals for restarting peace negotiations. The meeting will be 1st reported on 7/26. (MNA, TOI 7/26; HA, MNA 7/28)

Israel’s Civil Admin. grants permits for the construction of 1,065 new residences in various settlements around the West Bank, including infrastructure developments that will connect 296 residences to utilities in the Beit El settlement. (HA, TOI, YA 7/22; PCN 7/23; MNA 7/24)

UNRWA issues an urgent appeal for contributions, reaffirming that it is running at a budget deficit of around $100 m. and that if it does not receive sufficient pledges, UNRWA schools will be forced to close throughout the Middle East. (AFP, UNRWA 7/23)

In the Gaza Strip, IDF troops conduct a limited incursion nr. Jabaliya r.c. and level land close to the border zone, and also open fire on farmers, causing no injuries. In the West Bank, IDF troops kill 2 Palestinians in separate incidents at checkpoints; 1st, at Za’atra nr. Nablus, where a Palestinian shoots fireworks at soldiers and is shot dead, and 2d, at Container checkpoint nr. Bethlehem where Israeli soldiers say a Palestinian attempted to attack them. The IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 2 villages nr. Hebron at night; patrols in 1 village nr. Jenin in the morning, in 1 village each nr. Jenin and Tulkam in the afternoon, and in 2 villages and al-Fawar r.c. nr. Hebron at night. Jewish settlers vandalize Palestinian cars nr. Hebron. In East Jerusalem, Israeli security forces close 2 offices of charities it says are cover for Hamas activities. (JP, MNA 11/7; PCHR 11/14)

U.S. Secy. of State Kerry heads to Amman, Jordan, and holds talks with King Abdallah and FM Nasser Judeh, with the king praising the “trust” Kerry has among all sides in the Israeli-Palestinian peace process. At a joint press conference with Judeh, Kerry says that Israeli and Palestinians leaders had reaffirmed to him their commitment to negotiations. Later that day, Kerry holds another round of talks with Abbas, in Amman. In media interviews, he also reveals he will return the next day for another meeting with Netanyahu, an unplanned addition to the trip. In an interview broadcast on Israeli television, Kerry warns that without a peace deal, Israel could face a 3d intifada and “increasing isolation” and “delegitimization.” (AFP, AP, REU 11/7)

Swiss scientists say that tests show Yasir Arafat died with high levels of radioactive polonium in his body, but do not say that this was definitively the cause of death. Palestinian officials demand an international investigation into the “killing” of their former leader, according to PLO official Wassel Abu Yousef. (AFP, BBC, REU 11/7)

Diplomats from Iran and the P5+1 group begin talks in Geneva, coordinated by the EU’s Catherine Ashton, in an attempt to work out the details of a deal to end the dispute over Tehran’s nuclear program. (HA, REU 11/7)

An unnamed diplomat says that Jordan will replace Saudi Arabia on the UNSC for a 2-year term, after Riyadh rejects the position out of anger with the body’s inability to take what it deems appropriate action with regard to issues like Syria and Israeli-Palestinian relations. (AP 11/8)

In the West Bank, the IDF patrols in 1 village nr. Ramallah at night; conducts house searches and arrest raids in 2 villages nr. Jenin and 1 nr. Nablus at night. Off the coast of the Gaza Strip, Israeli naval vessels open fire twice on Palestinian fishermen nr. al-Waha resort, causing no injuries or damage. (PCHR 3/28)

Palestinian pres. Mahmud Abbas and U.S. Secy. of State John Kerry meet in Amman, following which PLO Chief Negotiator Saeb Erekat reiterates the Palestinian opposition to a resumption of negotiations without a complete halt to settlement construction and release of Palestinian prisoners, (JP 3/24)

The Israeli government asks the High Court of Justice to delay by at least 90 days the evacuation of the unauthorized West Bank outpost Amona scheduled for the end of 4/2013. (JP 3/24)

IDF forces fire into Syria and destroy a machine gun position from where shots had been fired at Israeli soldiers twice in the previous 24 hours. (AP, REU 3/24)

Israeli PM Netanyahu says that since the 11/24 Abbas-Mishal meeting seemed more symbolic than substantive and the PLO/PA has not made moves since the 11/1/11 UNESCO vote to gain membership in other UN organizations, he is considering releasing VAT taxes. (NYT 11/29) (see 11/23/11)

King Abdallah of Jordan hosts Israeli pres. Shimon Peres in Amman to discuss reviving Israeli-Palestinian talks. (NYT 11/29; JPI 12/9)

Israeli naval vessels fire warning shots at Palestinian fishing boats off the n. Gaza coast, detaining and confiscating the boat, arresting 1 fisherman, and returning another fisherman to Gaza through the Erez crossing. Late at night, IDF troops on the n. Gaza border responding to 2 loud explosions inside Gaza in an open area n. of Bayt Lahiya fire into Gaza for 20 mins., causing no reported damage or injuries. In the West Bank, the IDF patrols in 3 villages each nr. Qalqilya and Ramallah and 1 nr. Salfit during the day; conducts late-night patrols in Jericho. An Israeli military court convicts a 2d Palestinian teenager fr. Awarta in the murder of 5 Jewish settlers in Itamar on 3/11/11; another Palestinian teen was convicted on 9/13/11. (PCHR 12/1; OCHA 12/2; JPI 12/9)

In the 1st Lebanese-Israeli crossborder attack since 10/2009, unidentified assailants fire 3 rockets fr. s. Lebanon into n. Israel, damaging 2 buildings in the western Galilee, but causing no injuries. Israel responds with artillery fire, causing no reported damage or injuries. UNIFIL calls for “maximum restraint.” (DS, NYT 11/29; NYT, WP, WT 11/30)

Israel announces it will close PLO offices at Orient House, calling 4/21 briefing for diplomats a PA "provocation." PA accuses PM Netanyahu of trying to ignite an incident in Jerusalem before the 5/17 Israeli elections; claims that mtg. was a PLO event, not a violation of the ban on PA diplomatic activity in Jerusalem. (MM, WP, WT 4/23; AFP 4/23 in WNC 4/26; al-Quds 4/23, MENA, RJ 4/24, MENA 4/25 in WNC 4/27; WJW 4/29; PR 4/30)

In Damascus, Jordan's King Abdallah holds final round of talks on bilateral ties, regional issues with Pres. Asad before returning to Amman. (MM 4/22; JT, JTV 4/22 in WNC 4/23; WT 4/23; al-Ra'i 4/23 in WNC 4/26; Petra-JNA 4/25 in WNC 4/27; JP 4/30; MEI 5/7; MM 5/12; al-Watan al-Arabi 5/14 in WNC 5/18)

Russian FM Ivanov arrives in Israel on 1st leg of regional tour aimed at reviving the peace process. Israeli candidates, vying for votes fr. Israel's Russian immigrants, who make up 14% of the electorate, queue to meet him. (MM 4/22; ITAR-TASS 4/22 in WNC 4/23; WT 4/23; AFP 4/23 in WNC 4/26; JP 4/30; MEI 5/7; WP 5/8)

IDF closes Palestinian school nr. Ariel settlement in the West Bank following stone throwing incidents nearby. (IDF Radio 4/22 in WNC 4/23)

PA Higher Education M Hanan Ashrawi, Agriculture M `Abd al-Jawad Salih resign in protest over Arafat's new cabinet. (MM 8/6; CSM, MM, NYT, WP, WT 8/7) (see Peace Monitor, Doc. B2)

Israeli DM Mordechai briefs U.S. Amb. Walker on talks with the PA. (IGPO 8/6)

In Amman, PA Local Government M Erakat briefs Crown Prince Hassan on talks with Israel. Crown Prince Hassan later meets with Israeli Internal Security M Kahalani. (RJ 8/6 in WNC 8/7; JTV, RJ 8/6 in WNC 8/10)

In Washington, delegation of Labor MKs headed by party chmn. Barak meets with Secy. Albright. (MA 8/6 in WNC 8/7)

PM Netanyahu accuses the Vatican of bending to political pressure fr. the PLO in appointing a Palestinian, Pierre Mouallem, as archbishop of the Melchite (Greek Orthodox) church in the Galilee. (NYT 8/8)

In Damascus, Iran, Syria discuss expanding cooperation in the judicial sphere. (MM 8/6; IRNA 8/6 in WNC 8/10) (see 8/5)

In Amman, Jordan's Crown Prince Hassan receives Israeli MK Yossi Beilin for talks on the Israeli-PA track, U.S. FRD proposal. (MA 7/12, al-Ra'i in WNC 7/14; JT 7/15 in WNC 7/16; MM 7/21)

In Cairo, Arab League opens 5-day conference on Palestinian affairs, including issues of refugees, economic and social conditions, Judaization of Jerusalem. Reps. fr. Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, the PLO, Organization of the Islamic Conference attend. (MENA 7/13 in WNC 7/15; JT 7/15 in WNC 7/16)

In s. Lebanon, the IDF blows up 3 Lebanese homes nr. a crossing separating its self-declared security zone fr. unoccupied Lebanon. Off the coast of Tyre, the Israeli navy fires on Lebanese fishing boats, sinking one; the crew escapes. (RL 7/12 in WNC 7/14)

In Washington, Israeli, PA teams hold separate follow-up talks on the peace process with State Dept. Dep. Special Coordinator for Arab-Israeli Negotiations Aaron Miller, special envoy Ross. No progress is made. Israeli team is led by Cabinet Secy. Nave, Netanyahu foreign policy adviser Uzi Arad. PA team is led by Local Government M Erakat; PLO Washington rep. Hassan `Abd al-Rahman also attends. (JT 2/10 in WNC 2/12; WP 2/10; MM, WJW 2/12; PR 2/13)

In Amman, EU Pres. Santer discusses peace process with Jordanian PM Majali. (RJ 2/10 in WNC 2/11)

In Amman, PA, Jordan open 3 days of talks on expanding cooperation in health-related fields. (JT 2/10 in WNC 2/11; JT 2/11 in WNC 2/12)

Russian special envoy Posuvalyuk delivers message to Israeli PM Netanyahu fr. Iraqi pres. Saddam Hussein, saying that Iraq has "neither the intention nor the ability" to attack Israel. (WT 2/11; CSM 2/18)

After PM Netanyahu demands halt to Palestinian pro-Iraq demonstrations, PA's Gaza police chief Brig. Gen. Ghazi Jabali issues order preventing all marches, protests, flag burnings in area A. Human rights groups say order undermines right to peaceful assembly. (LAW 2/10; IDF Radio, ITV 2/10 in WNC 2/11; NYT 2/11; PR 2/13)

Jordan bans all demonstrations "for any reason," citing preservation of national security given the "delicate" regional situation. (JTV 2/10 in WNC 2/11; JTV 2/11, JT 2/12 in WNC 2/15; JTV 2/12 in WNC 2/17)

Defense Secy. Cohen says that Oman has given the U.S. permission to station support planes in Oman for an attack on Iraq; combat units will be station in Bahrain, Kuwait, Germany, Spain, Diego Garcia. (MM 2/10; CSM , MM 2/11)

PM Netanyahu tells his cabinet that Israel will not honor its peace agmts. with the PLO unless Arafat cracks down on Islamists. (MM 8/4)

14-mbr. Knesset Internal Affairs Comm. delegation representing almost all Israeli parties (except Moledet, Shas, Tsomet) arrives in Amman for a 2 day visit to discuss the current impasse in PA-Israeli talks resulting fr. the 7/30 bombings; encourages King Hussein to personally mediate btwn. the sides. Jordanian parliamentary mbrs. boycott the delegation. (RJ 8/3, 8/4 in WNC 8/5; JT 8/5 in WNC 8/6; SA 8/5 in WNC 8/7)

Israel continues arresting Palestinians following the 7/30 bombings, bringing the total arrested to 116; also demolishes 3 Palestinian homes allegedly built without permits nr. Jerusalem. (WP 8/4; LAW 8/5; PR 8/8)

Israeli authorities prevent a delegation of 20 young campers fr. Qatar, UAE (who just completed a summer program sponsored by the PA Youth and Sports Min.) fr. leaving Gaza for Egypt. (al-Quds 8/4 in WNC 8/5; PR 8/8)

Nr. the West Bank Jewish settlement of Karmel, a Palestinian is fatally shot fr. a passing car bearing Israeli license plates. (ITV 8/3 in WNC 8/5; MM, WP 8/4; NYT 8/5)

Iraq, Syria form a joint tourism company, which will run 2 daily trips to transport businessmen btwn. the countries. (RMC 8/4 in WNC 8/5) (see 8/1)

After Israeli jurists confirm that the existing Oslo agmts. give Israel overriding responsibility for security in the West Bank and Gaza that would permit the IDF to reenter any PA area, Israel drops its demand for written guarantees fr. the PA detailing IDF hot pursuit rights in Hebron, a key sticking point of the talks. (MM 11/27; IDF Radio 11/27 in WNC 11/29; MM 11/28; IDF Radio 11/28 in WNC 12/2; CSM, MM 11/29)

JT reports that the PLO is setting up a new "superministry" that will replace the Tunis-based Department of Returnees Affairs and will have headquarters in Gaza and offices in Amman, Gaza, West Bank to deal with issues concerning Palestinian refugees. The main objectives of the superministry, which will not be tied to any PA ministry, are political mobilization of the refugees; improvement of refugees' living conditions; establishment and further development of bilateral ties with Arab and non-Arab countries, the UNRWA, the Multilateral Working Group on Refugees. (JT 11/27 in WNC 12/2)

Netanyahu adviser Gold arrives in London for talks with the British FMin. on ways of advancing regional cooperation. (IDF Radio 11/27 in WNC 12/2; MM 11/29) (see 12/25)

Israeli Atty. Gen. Mikhael Ben-Ya'ir reports that border police routinely mistreat Palestinians, recommends that officers convicted of abuse be punished more harshly. (WT 11/28) (see 11/26)

Turkey announces that it has canceled its purchase of Cobra helicopters fr. the U.S., gives the U.S. no explanation. (ANATOLIA 11/27 in WNC 11/29)

Israel reinforces troops, equipment in s. Lebanon. Israeli naval vessels detain, search a German ship entering Tyre port. (RL 11/27 in WNC 11/29) (see 11/23)

The Lebanese government passes a law suspending the closure of all unlicensed media outlets, which was set for 11/30 (see 9/17). Under the law, unlicensed outlets may continue to broadcast apolitical news only until they are explicitly denied a license. (al-Nahar 11/28 in WNC 12/4)

In Gaza, PC opens weekly 2-day session. Palestinian journalists strike for 2 hrs., refusing to cover PC mtg., to protest PA intimidation, mistreatment, bureaucratic stonewalling of their attempts to gather news. (VOP 5/23 in FBIS 2/24; VOP 5/23 in FBIS 5/28; PR 5/31; JP 6/1)

Israeli FM Dir. Gen. Uri Savir says Israel is ready to resume negotiations with Lebanon, Syria; says if Lebanon comes to the table, Israel could withdraw fr. the s. in 2+n3 mos. (QY 5/22 in FBIS 5/22)

PM Peres approves construction of 450 houses in Tsamarot settlement in the West Bank; approves money for plan without convening the special ministerial comm. on settlements, as required; gives oral promise to Oranit settlers' council mbrs. that Oranit will be annexed to the Jerusalem municipality. (MA 5/28 in FBIS 5/29)

In Amman, Jordan, PLO discuss activating the special follow-up comm. on Jerusalem, which was formed during the extraordinary Arab parliamentary session held in Amman 12/95. (JTV 5/22 in FBIS 5/23)

PLO Exec. Comm. holds 1st mtg. in Gaza, appoints Mahmud Abbas to replace Jamil Surani as secy., meaning Abbas would succeed Arafat as PLO head were Arafat to be incapacitated. (VOP 5/22 in FBIS 5/22)

Hamas officials Sayyid Abu Musamih, Muhammad Shamaa meet with jailed spiritual leader Shaykh Ahmad Yasin in an Israeli prison hospital, obtain his support for their moderate political stand, ask him to call for a halt to Hamas military operations. (MM 5/23; PR 5/31; JP 6/1)

In Elat, PA suspends negotiations for several hours in protest over Jericho closure, Israeli delay in letting PSF head Col. Jibril Rajub leave Jericho to attend negotiations. Israeli FMin. criticizes closure, urges IDF to lift it. IDF agrees to ease it. (MM 9/28; IDF Radio, ITV, QY, VOP 8/28 in FBIS 8/28)

In Jericho, 100s of Palestinians riot in protest of closure, temporarily take over IDF command post, wounding 3 border policemen. PA police quell riot, make no arrests. (QY 8/28 in FBIS 8/28; MM 8/29; WJW 9/7)

Israel, Jordan sign cooperation agmt. on health. (RJ, QY 8/28 in FBIS 8/29)

PLO's Qaddumi arrives in Amman for talks with PM Kabariti regarding Jordanian-Palestinian relations, peace process, upcoming Arab League mgt. (RJ 8/28 in FBIS 8/29; RJ 8/30 in FBIS 8/31)

Brazilian FM Luiz Felipe Lampreia, group of leading Brazilian businessmen discuss trade issues with PM Rabin, FM Peres in Israel. (JP 8/29 in FBIS 8/31)

Knesset holds special plenum to discuss security situation in wake of 8/21 bombing, large-scale protests by right-wing settlers. (QY 8/28 in FBIS 8/29)

In reaction to Pres. Mubarak's demand 8/25, Israeli Atty. Gen. Ben-Ya'ir expresses regret for IDF soldiers alleged killing of Egyptian POWs during 1956, 1967 wars but says Israeli law does not permit a person to be prosecuted for a crime committed more than 20 yrs before. (ITV 8/28 in FBIS 8/29; MM, WT 8/29; MA 8/29 in FBIS 8/31; CSM 8/30; JP 9/2)

In Tunis, PLO Exec. Comm. opens 2-day mtg. to discuss Oslo B agmt. 10 of 18 mbrs. attend. PLO Dep. Qaddumi, PFLP, DFLP boycott. Fr. Amman, Qaddumi strongly criticizes Oslo B, calls on PLO, Fatah to adopt his alternative draft "Palestinian National Program." (AFP 8/12, AFP, al-Ra'y 8/14 in FBIS 8/14; SA 8/13, RMC, VOP 8/15 in FBIS 8/15; MM 8/15, 8/16; SA 8/16 in FBIS 8/16)

Israel says U.S. Amb. Indyk is pressuring it to include Jordanian companies in the U.S.-Israel BIRD Foundation for research and development of advanced technologies. (YA 8/14 in FBIS 8/15)

Israeli Police M Shahal warns PA that the East Jerusalem Municipal Council is illegal (see 6/10), Palestinians introducing themselves as mbrs. of the council will be arrested; tells Palestinian bodies operating offices in East Jerusalem to close within 2 wks or police will move against them. (QY 8/14 in FBIS 8/15)

Israeli police arrest 3 settlers in connection with death of Palestinian 8/13. 250 settlers protest the arrest. (QY 8/14 in FBIS 8/14; CSM 8/15)

In retaliation for attack 8/13, IAF launches 14 strikes against PFLP-GC bases nr. al-Nai'ma, s. Lebanon, injuring 6 civilians. Arab League calls on U.S., Russia to rein in Israel. (QPAR, RE 8/14 in FBIS 8/15; NYT 8/15; SARR 8/15 in FBIS 8/16)

IDF closes West Bank, Gaza until 8/16. (ITV 8/14 in FBIS 8/15)

Over dinner, U.S. Amb. to Israel Indyk, U.S. Consul Gen. Abington, UN coordinator Larsen persuade Arafat to call FM Peres, invite him to open intensive one-on-one talks on transfer of authority. Peres accepts. (JP 8/6 in FBIS 8/7; MM 8/10; WP 8/12)

PM Rabin rejects Secy. of State Christopher's request to resume talks with Syria on the ambassadorial level, says talks must include military advisers. (ITV 8/2, AFP 8/3 in FBIS 8/2)

Israeli cabinet meets on but does not approve transfer of 8 spheres of authority to the PA. (MM 8/2; QY 8/2 in FBIS 8/2; QY 8/2 in FBIS 8/3) (see 5/22)

In Amman, PM Bin Shakir, PA Tourism M Ilyas Frayj discuss bilateral relations in light of the peace process. (RJ 8/2 in FBIS 8/3; RJ 8/3 in FBIS 8/7)

Israeli Supreme Court overturns ban on Jewish visitors to Temple Mount/al-Aqsa mosque courtyard during Jewish holidays. Jews will be allowed to tour the site beginning 8/5 but will still be prohibited fr. praying there. Site has been closed to Jews since 1990 riots left 17 Palestinians dead, 150 wounded. (QY 8/3 in FBIS 8/4; WP 8/7; MENA 8/4, VOP 8/5, 8/7 in FBIS 8/7)

PLO's Qaddumi arrives in Tripoli for talks on bilateral relations with Libyan officials. (Great Jamahiriyya Radio 8/2 in FBIS 8/2)

IAF strikes PFLP-GC bases in Syrian-controlled Biqa` Valley. Though the site is within range of Syrian antiaircraft batteries and despite the fact Syrian DM Mustafa Tlas is visiting Syrian army units in the area, Syria does not open fire. (CSM 8/3; YA 8/2 in IL 8/3; QPAR 8/2 in FBIS 8/4)

At the Russian Compound police headquarters in Jerusalem, 1,000 settlers demonstrate against expansion of Palestinian self-rule. Similar demonstration by over 1,000 Jews is held outside the Israeli consulate in New York. (QY 8/2 in FBIS 8/3; WJW 8/10)

U.S. envoy Ross makes unexpected return trip to Damascus to meet with FM al-Shara`, unsuccessfully tries to set date and agenda of next round of Syrian-Israeli military talks. (MM 7/13; MBC, SARR 7/13 in FBIS 7/14; MM 7/14)

PA charge d'affaires to Jordan `Umar al-Khatib announces Israel, PA have agreed that "PA nationals" abroad, whose travel permits were valid when they left but have expired, may return to the PA areas at any time without having to renew the permits, no matter how long they were abroad. (al-Ra'y 7/13 in FBIS 7/13)

Delegates fr. Egypt, the EU, Israel, Jordan, the PA hold land transport infrastructure working group mtg. in Amman; discuss need for regional highway system, construction of bridges in Jordan. (JTV 7/13 in FBIS 7/18)

PLO Exec. Comm. mbr. and frmr. top negotiator Mahmud Abbas meets with Arafat in Gaza to discuss the Palestinian stand on negotiations with Israel. (VOP 7/13 in FBIS 7/13)

Heads of 4 leading U.S. rabbinical movements present Congress mbrs. with signatures of 600 U.S. rabbis supporting continued aid to the PLO. (MM 7/14)

Israeli Civil Administration appoints Lt. Col. Barukh Nagar, convicted several yrs ago of attacking 2 Palestinians, as governor of Hebron. (QY 7/13 in FBIS 7/14)

PM Rabin says hill nr. Efrat occupied by settlers 7/12 has been zoned for settlement for more than a yr., says he will approve requests that mobile homes be set up at the site. (QY 7/13 in FBIS 7/14)

Hamas-PFLP coalition wins al-Najah student elections by vote of 43-28, marking 1st time in 14 yrs. that Fatah has lost the election. (PR 7/28)

Jordanian FMin. says FM Kabariti has held several mtgs. with the Kuwaiti charge d'affaires in Amman, numerous Jordanian officials have met with their Kuwaiti counterparts in an attempt to normalize relations, which soured during the Gulf War. (al-Dustur 7/13 in FBIS 7/14)

PA-Israeli Joint Liaison Comm. meets for 2d day in Cairo. FM Peres offers PA Planning M Shaath sudden concessions to Palestinians at negotiating table in light of Jerusalem issue). Sides agree to set up unofficial Jerusalem Comm. to address expropriation issue. Israel offers to broaden PA autonomy in West Bank, Gaza but dispute over land confiscation in Jerusalem prevents agmt. (MENA 5/7, QY, RE 5/8 in FBIS 5/8; MENA, VOP 5/8 in FBIS 5/9; WT 5/9; MEI, WP 5/12)

At AIPAC conference, Sen. Dole announces he will submit legislation to force U.S. to move embassy in Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. Israel reacts coolly. Jordan, Morocco, UAE criticize  initiative, urge UNSC action. (ITV 5/8, QY 5/9 in FBIS 5/9; CSM, MM, WP 5/10; NYT, WT 5/11; MEI, WP 5/12)

Syria refuses Jordan's request to name amb. to Jordan, host visit of Jordanian FM Kabariti to Damascus to try to improve bilateral relations. (MM 5/9; al-Bilad 5/10 in FBIS 5/9 [dates as printed]; al-Quds 5/9 in FBIS 5/12) (see 12/14/94)

Rabin meets with mbrs. of Congress; presses them not to reduce foreign aid, aid to Israel, Arab partners in peace effort; discusses Iranian threat, talks with  Syria, PA about efforts to end attacks against Israeli targets; backs away fr. supporting Dole initiative to move embassy to Jerusalem. (NYT, WT 5/9)

In Amman, Jordan, Israel initial draft agmts. on regulating agriculture, energy, environmental cooperation; postpone initialing draft trade accord that will give Israel preferential tariffs for Jordanian goods. The accord would be 1st by Arab country to give preferential treatment to Israel. (WT 5/9)

Jordan's amb. to Israel Muasher warns Dep. FM Beilin that Jordan will chill relations with Israel if it does not reverse land confiscations in Jerusalem. (WP 5/12, CSM 5/15)

Jordan reportedly gives 2 Hamas mbrs. residing in Amman 1-mo. notice to leave country. (MM 5/9) (see 4/13)

IDF closes al-Quds office in Nablus, claiming it materials there linking the paper to Hamas. (HA, JP 5/10 in FBIS 5/11) (see 1/16)

Israel releases 250 pro-Fatah Palestinian prisoners, lifts curfew on Hebron (see 4/19) as goodwill gesture for Id al-Adha. (QY 5/8 in FBIS 5/8; NYT 5/9; CSM 5/10)

PLO Tokyo mission closes due to lack of funds. (al-Manar 5/8 in FBIS 5/11)

King Hussein, U.S. VP Gore meet in Amman. King criticizes congressional decision to cut Jordan's debt forgiveness. Gore promises U.S. will forgive all debt. (JTV, RJ 3/21, RJ 3/22 in FBIS 3/22; WP, WT 3/22; JP 4/1) (see 3/3, 3/13)

Israeli Dep. FM Beilin, Egyptian FM Musa meet in Cairo, say relations have improved since Knesset delegation visit 3/19. Beilin says Egypt now better understands Israel's security needs, NPT argument has abated. (QY 3/21 in FBIS  3/22)

In Beersheba, Israeli police arrest 2 Hamas mbrs., 1 Israeli bedouin with explosives-rigged truck with Gaza plates. Pair confesses to planning suicide attack. PM Rabin cancels mtg. with PA scheduled for 3/22 to discuss release of Palestinian prisoners, bans all vehicles with Gaza license plates fr. entering Israel. (MM 3/21; QY 3/21 in FBIS 3/21; CSM, MM, WP 3/22; NYT 3/23; IDF Radio 3/23 in FBIS 3/23; PR 3/26; MM 3/27; JP 4/1)

10 Damascus-based Palestinian opposition groups close 2-day mtg. to assess peace process, PA administration, possible relations with PNG (see 2/21). PLO Exec. Comm. mbr. al-Qaddumi says he will head delegation to Damascus in next wk. to try to reach a conciliation agmt. with these groups. (al-Ray 3/23, QY 3/24 in FBIS 3/24)

Israeli cabinet approves draft of early empowerment accord. (NYT 8/24)

Arafat meets PLO officials in Tunis to discuss problems with advancing self-rule. PNC SG Muhammad Subayh links convening PNC in o.t., amendment of charter with full Israeli withdrawal, recognition of Palestinian state, deployment Palestinian forces. PLO Political Dept. head Faruq al-Qaddumi says salaries of PLO employees, soldiers have not been paid. (AFP, VOP 8/21 in FBIS 8/22; VOP 8/22 in FBIS 8/23; MEI 8/26; JP 9/3)

PNA Culture M Yasir `Abd-Rabbuh arrives in Amman for talks with Jordanian FM/PM `Abd al-Salam al-Majali on improving Palestinian-Jordanian cooperation in tourism, education, health, trade, communications. (CSM, JT, WSJ 8/22; VOP 8/23 in FBIS 8/23)

In Gaza, Palestinian police wound 6, impose curfew for 1st time to quell unrest following death of Palestinian 8/20. (FBIS, WSJ 8/22; WJW 8/25)

Palestinian Human Rights Information Center (PHRIC) demands investigation into alleged "terror tactics and death threats" against Palestinian activist Maha Nasir by PNA for her objection to Social Affairs M Intisar al-Wazir's attendance at a women's conference this wk. (WP 8/22)

Hamas suspends all dialogue with PNA until Arafat opens exec. positions on Gaza City Council to opposition mbrs. (HA 8/21 in FBIS 8/22)

PLO Chmn. Arafat and Israeli PM Rabin hold 90-minute summit  mtg. at Erez crossing, Gaza Strip.  Israel agrees to open safe passages btwn. Gaza and Jericho, permit 6,000 more Palestinian workers into Israel.  Both sides agree to pursue negotiations on expanding West Bank self-rule.  Israel puts off discussion of Jerusalem, criticizes PLO Political Dept. head Faruq Qaddumi's remarks on attacks on Israelis.  (Qol Yisra'el 8/10 in FBIS 8/11; MM, NYT, WP, WT 8/11)

World Bank announces establishment of field office in Gaza.  (World Bank release 8/10)

Jordan's Crown Prince Hassan meets 98-mbr. United Jewish Appeal delegation in Amman, says Jordan and Israel should coordinate economic policies before 10/94 Casablanca economic conference.  (MM 8/11)

Argentine Pres. Carlos Menem threatens to expel Iranian amb. over Tehran's alleged role in 7/18 bombing of Buenos Aires Jewish center.  Embassy had protested issuing of warrants for arrest of 4 Iranian diplomats in case.  (NYT, WT 8/11)

Senate approves foreign-aid bill 88-12, sending $13.8 b. measure to Pres. Clinton for signature.  Legislation, passed by House 8/4, includes $99 m. "down payment" on Jordanian debt relief, $3 b. in economic and military aid to Israel.  (WP 8/11)

PNA bans distribution of al-Nahar newspaper, Akhbar al-Bilad magazine,  causing al-Nahar to cease publication.  Both publications regarded as pro-Jordanian; PNA says al-Nahar advocates "line that contradicts the national interests of the Palestinian people."  Pretext for banning al-Nahar is that it had not renewed circulation permit.  Akhbar al-Bilad publisher Nasr al-Din Nashashibi, calls PNA move "intellectual terrorism."  (Qol Yisra'el 7/28 in FBIS 7/29; CSM, WP, WT 7/29; NYT, WT 7/30; JP 8/6)

PLO, Israeli negotiators reach draft agreements to give PLO control of education, health, and taxation in West Bank.  PLO negotiator Nabil Shaath denies reports that Janin will be next self-rule area, saying "it's all the West Bank."  (Qol Yisra'el, MENA 7/28 in FBIS 7/29; CSM 7/29)

Gaza municipal council holds 1st mtg.  Municipality head Awn Shawa says main task is preparing for municipal elections.  (Algiers VOP 7/28 in FBIS 7/29; TJT 7/29)

Secy of State Christopher, testifying to House FA Comm., criticizes PLO Chmn. Arafat's admin. of Gaza, saying he feels "frustration" with him and that Arafat failed to comply with international donors' requirements.  (WT 7/29)

U.S. announces VP Al Gore will visit Israel, Jordan 9/94 to promote Syria-Israel talks.  (MM 7/28)

Syrian govt. newspaper al-Ba`th criticizes Jordan for signing Washington Declaration, calling pact a "surprise" and a "violation" of Arab position in peace process.  (NYT 7/29)

Jordanian M of State Jawad Anani, speaking to Washington Institute for Near East Policy, says Amman favors Dead Sea-Red Sea canal project with Israel, Aqaba-Eilat free-trade zone.  (WT 7/31)

Lebanese PM Hariri orders military to prepare for possible Israeli strikes in retaliation for 7/18 bombing in Argentina  blamed on Hizballah.  Civilians in southern Lebanon flee north in anticipation of Israeli incursion.  (NYT, WSJ 7/29)

WJC Pres. Edgar Bronfman says Argentina warned UK of potential bombings in London; UK denies advance warning.  Argentine govt. official says Iranian diplomats suspects in 7/18 bombing. (NYT, WP, WT 7/29; JP 8/6)

Israeli intelligence agencies reach agreement with unspecified other countries on counterterrorism cooperation.  (Ha'Aretz 7/29 in FBIS 7/29)

IDF helicopters (4), IAF fighter-bombers (6) attack Hizballah base at `Ayn Kawkab, nr. Ba`albak, killing at least 26, as many as 45, and wounding 30 (up to 80), most teenagers in their beds.  Hizballah fires 20 katyusha rockets at Israel in retaliation, 7 landing nr. Nahariya.  Lebanon, Syria denounce attack.  UN S.G. Butrus Butrus-Ghali expresses "concern" over attack. (RL 6/2 in FBIS 6/2; MM 6/2, 6/3; CSM, NYT, WP, WT 6/3; JP 6/11)

PLO Chmn. Arafat cancels appointments, reportedly suffering fr. "mild angina."  (MENA, RL, MBC TV 6/2 in FBIS 6/3; NYT, WP 6/3)

Protests continue in Ramallah, 2 Palestinians wounded as Justice M David Liba'i visits.  (JP 6/11)

Mtg. of UNRWA donors grouping 24 countries, European Union (EU) concludes in Amman.  (UNRWA News 6/15)

Israeli FM Peres meets Morocco's King Hassan during stopover in Rabat on return fr. visit to Mexico, Colombia, and Argentina.  (MM 6/3)

Palestinians protesting 5/31 killing in al-Ram attack police station in Ramallah with rocks and bottles.  IDF fires tear gas, rubber bullets, live ammunition in response, wounds 17 Palestinians, 1 critically.  (MM 6/1; NYT, WP, WT 6/2)

PLO Chmn. Arafat meets in Tunis with U.S. Senators Paul Simon (D-IL), Russell Feingold (D-WI), and Harry Reid (D-NV), says he will delay entry into Jericho until promised adequate funds for local admin.  (Algiers VOP 6/1 in FBIS 6/2; WT 6/2)

Informal mtg. of UNRWA donors opens in Amman.  (UNRWA News 6/1)

157 Palestinian police cross into Gaza Strip fr. Egypt at Rafah crossing, greeted by 1,000s of Gaza residents. IDF uses water cannon, rubber bullets to restrain crowds. PLO and Israeli officials meet in Jericho to discuss entrance of police, transfer of power. Israeli National Parks Authority instructed to turn over 3 Jericho archaeological sites to Palestinians, including Hisham Palace and Shalom Al Yisrael synagogue. (MM 5/10; CSM, NYT, WP, WT 5/11)

PLO, Jordan open economic talks in Amman to reconcile 1/7 PLO-Jordan "letter of intent" with 4/29 Israel-PLO economic protocol. PLO delegation led by Ahmad Qurai'. (MM 5/10)

Gunmen attack settler bus nr. Beit El settlement, West Bank, wounding 3. (WT 5/11)

IAF fires rockets on PFLP-GC bases nr. Naamah, Lebanon. Lebanese police say at least 2 killed, 8 wounded. (MM 5/10; NYT, WT 5/11)

Central Gaza Prison closed down, 500 of its inmates transferred to other prisons and 200 released. IDF dismantles Gaza army bases but does not withdraw. (CSM, NYT, WT 5/6)

PLO Chmn. Arafat visits Amman to brief King Hussein on Gaza-Jericho agreement after Cairo mtg. with top aides to discuss appointment of 24 mbrs. of Palestinian National Authority. (MM 5/5; WP, WT 5/6)

Japanese FM Koji Kakizawa visits Jericho, pledges $200 m. to Palestinian National Authority. Settlers attempt for 2d day to occupy Shalom Al Yisrael synagogue in Jericho. (CSM, WT 5/6)

Norwegian Middle East mediator Terje Rod Larsen says Palestinian police force has received $20 m. in international donations, less than 1/2 of estimated $47 m. budget for 1st 6 months. Larsen says U.S. has pledged additional $5 m. PLO negotiator Nabil Shaath says there will be overlap btwn. IDF presence and police. (NYT, WP 5/6)

PFLP, DFLP announce attacks on Israel will continue but that forces will avoid clashes with Palestinian police, according to statement by PFLP SG Dr. George Habash. Syrian media, including party paper al-Ba'th, join Palestinian factions in condemning Gaza-Jericho agreement. (MM 5/5; CSM, WP 5/6)

Al-Hayat reports Russia has agreed to write off 90% of Syria's $10 b. debt to Moscow. Syria will purchase $500 m. in Russian weapons in deal reached during Russian Dep. PM Oleg Soskovets's visit to Damascus previous week. (MM 5/5; WT 5/11)

Hamas issues leaflet saying Hadera bombing "2d in a series of 5 attacks" on Israelis, warning Palestinians to avoid "crowded Israeli areas." Leaflet also criticizes PLO Chmn. Arafat's denunciation of violence, asking, "Has appeasing America and Israel become more important to you than pleasing your own people and telling the word of truth?" Arafat calls PM Rabin to reject violence; FM Peres says "we appreciate the call. We would like to see some more definite language." (MM 4/14; CSM, NYT, WP, WT 4/15)

PM Rabin accuses Jordan of sheltering Hamas, calling Amman "a paradise for the activities of Hamas." Rabin says Israel has contacted Jordan over issue, alleges "direct contact" btwn. Hamas spokesmen in Amman, 'Izz al-Din al-Qassam militants in o.t. Jordanian Interior Min. summons Hamas rep. Muhammad Nazzal and spokesman Ibrahim Ghawsha, withdraws their passports and tells them to curb activities, reportedly before Rabin speaks. (MM 4/15, 4/18; NYT 4/15)

IDF arrests 18 Hamas mbrs. suspected of attacks on soldiers in Gaza; Hamas activist Mahmud Zahar says at least 40 Hamas mbrs. arrested since 4/11. (WT 4/15)

Roadside bomb nr. Rihan, southern Lebanon, kills 5 SIA mbrs. No group claims responsibility. IDF, SLA shell Sidon and 'Ayn al-Hilwa r.c. in retaliation, killing 3, wounding 12 in heaviest shelling since 7/93. (WP 4/15

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)

Jordanian-Palestinian political comm. opens mtg. on cooperation in Amman under PLO Exec. Comm. mbr. Faruq al-Qaddumi, Jordanian Dep. PM Sa'id al-Tall. (RJ 2/15 in FBIS 2/16)

Clashes in Gaza City btwn. stone-throwers and IDF leave 4 Palestinians wounded. In separate incident in Gaza Strip, 1 Palestinian killed. (MM 2/15; NYT 2/16)