The Palestine Chronology

The IDF assassinates senior Hamas mbr. Adli Hamdan (Bakr Hamdan), firing missiles at his car in Khan Yunis, injuring 2 passengers. Another 5 Palestinians are killed in separate incidents, including a PA intelligence officer fatally shot by the IDF in Ramallah. A 6th Palestinian dies of injuries received earlier. In Hebron, the IDF raids, occupies a Palestinian bakery, shooting, wounding, detaining 1 Palestinian. The IDF also conducts arrest sweeps in the Bethlehem area, Tulkarm; occupies a Palestinian home in al-Khadir as an observation post. (LAW, NYT, WP 1/25; PCHR 1/30)

     The U.S. invites Sharon to come to Washington to meet with Bush on 2/7. White House also issues a statement regarding Israel's confinement of Arafat to his office in Ramallah, saying, "The president understands the reason that Israel has taken the action that it takes, and it is up to Chairman Arafat to demonstrate the leadership to combat terrorism." Bush meets with senior national security advisers to reassess U.S. Middle East policy. Some senior admin. officials (including VP Dick Cheney, Defense Secy. Donald Rumsfeld) are reportedly leaning toward sanctioning or severing ties with Arafat, the PA/PLO. (MM, WJW 1/24; AP, CNN, JP [Internet], MM, NYT, WP, WT 1/25; al-Quds 1/26, DUS 1/27 in WNC 1/28; MM 1/28)

The U.S. identifies 19 hijackers (fr. Egypt, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, the UAE), including 7 trained pilots, who participated in the 9/11 attacks; 16 held valid U.S. visas, 12 had lived in Florida (some for yrs.), 2 were the sons of a high-ranking Saudi diplomat once posted to Washington, at least 3 had studied at the same college in Germany. (NYT, WP, WT 9/15; WP 9/18; CNN 9/21)

Asst. Secy. of State for Near East Affairs William Burns official meets with 15 Arab envoys, including the PLO rep., and tell them they must either declare their nations "mbrs. of an international coalition against terrorism or risk being isolated." Later, Arab envoys meet at the home of Saudi Arabian amb. Prince Bandar Bin Sultan to discuss U.S. plans. Egyptian amb. Nabil Fahmy warns the admin. to focus on finding and punishing those responsible for the 9/11 attacks and not to broaden the effort to include other geopolitical goals. (NYT 9/15; MM, WP 9/17; SA 9/17 in WNC 9/19)

Sharon rejects direct appeals by Bush, Powell to hold peace talks with the PA, which would facilitate U.S. efforts to form a coalition to strike at Bin Laden. Instead, he cancels tentative plans to hold an Arafat-Peres mtg. on 9/16, saying it would be "inappropriate" in light of the 9/11 U.S. attacks; tells Bush that Israel opposes the U.S. bringing the PA, Syria into its antiterrorism coalition. (AFP 9/14; AP, HP, NYT, WP 9/15; JP [Internet], WT 9/16; XIN 9/16 in WNC 9/17; WJW 9/27; JP, MEI 9/28)

Meanwhile, 3 Palestinians are killed by IDF fire in Gaza. Israeli authorities detain Mufti of Jerusalem Shaykh Ikrima Sabri following Friday prayers for several hrs. of questioning regarding his recent visit to Beirut. In Gaza's Nussayrat refugee camp, 100s of Palestinians protest against the U.S.'s threat to attack Afghanistan, fearing the U.S.'s "international campaign against terrorism" will be campaign against Muslims; undercover PSF officers confiscate reporters' film. Some 40,000 Israeli Arabs in Umm al-Fahm Israel hold a similar rally, denouncing the killing of American civilians but also condemning U.S. support for Israel. (HP, WP, WT 9/15; WP 9/16; WT 9/17; al-Quds 9/18 in WNC 9/19; WJW 9/20; LAW 9/29)

A Hamas suicide bomber detonates a device at a crowded West Jerusalem pizzeria, killing 13 Israelis, 1 American, 1 Brazilian and wounding at least 90. Afterward, angry Israelis in Jerusalem, Jewish settlers in Hebron attack Palestinians in the streets, with little intervention fr. Israeli police, soldiers. Fearing a massive Israeli strike, Palestinians throughout the occupied territories close offices and stores, take refuge in their homes. Meanwhile, Palestinian gunmen fire on a vehicle nr. Jinin, killing 1 Jewish settler, wounding 3. The IDF directs heavy machine gun fire at residential areas of Bayt Lahia, Jericho, Khan Yunis, Nablus, Rafah; bulldoze a Palestinian home in Gaza. (AP, BBC, HA 8/9; ITAR-TASS, MENA 8/9 in WNC 8/10; NYT, PMC, WP, WT 8/10; JT 8/10 in WNC 8/13; WP 8/11)

Immediately after the bombing, the IDF senior command, Israeli cabinet convene separately to discuss response scenarios. The cabinet agrees to a new strategy of hitting PA targets only with the aim of forcing Arafat to choose btwn. a full cease-fire, destruction of the PA. This evening, Sharon meets with his security cabinet, which also decides to set up new police stations in East Jerusalem. (HA 8/9; CNN, HA, JP [Internet], LAW, NYT, REU, WP, WT 8/10; MENA 8/10 in WNC 8/13; WT 8/11; Times [London] 8/13; WT 8/15)

Late tonight (2:00 a.m. local time), Israel sends F-16s to destroy a PSF post in Ramallah; sends more tanks into Gaza, bulldozing 1 PSF post. Israeli security forces occupy 10 unofficial PLO offices in East Jerusalem, including Orient House (the symbolic PLO FMin.); also detain 8 Orient House employees for questioning, confiscate files, remove the Palestinian flag, raise an Israeli flag. The IDF takes over the Abu Dis mayor's residence, several surrounding homes Israel claims are used as PA security command centers, marking the 1st reoccupation of sites in area B. Sharon declares that "Orient House will not open again. Ever. We will not leave Abu Dis." The State Dept. says the actions mark a "political escalation." Russia warns Israel has crossed a "dangerous line." In response, Israel removes the Israeli flag fr. Orient House. (HA 8/9; CNN, HA, JP [Internet], LAW, NYT, REU, WP, WT 8/10; MENA 8/10 in WNC 8/13; WT 8/11; JT, al-Quds 8/12 in WNC 8/14; Times [London] 8/13; AYM 8/13, SA 8/14 in WNC 8/15; ATL 8/15 in WNC 8/16)

A PA security court in Nablus sentences another Palestinian to death for collaborating with Israel in the 2/19 assassination of Hamas mbr. Mahmud Madani. (Independent [Internet] 8/10)

2 Palestinians die of injuries received earlier, including senior Fatah mbr. Bardawil who was wounded on 6/5 in a possible assassination attempt. The IDF directs shells, heavy machine gun fire at residential areas of Khan Yunis, Rafah; raids 3 PA-controlled areas in Gaza, 1 in Hebron; occupies an uninhabited building in Nablus for use as an IDF post. Palestinians fire mortars at 2 Gaza settlements, causing no damage. Jewish settlers attempt to set up a new enclave nr. Nablus, where a settler was killed a wk. ago, but the IDF intervenes, declares the area a closed military zone. IDF troops bar an ambulance carrying a Palestinian man suffering a heart attack fr. crossing a checkpoint to reach a hospital; the man dies en route to the hospital via a 2d, longer path. Troops also bar a Palestinian woman in labor from crossing a checkpoint to reach Jericho hospital 40 m. away; after she gives birth, the soldiers allow her to walk through the crossing with her newborn. Israeli security forces arrest a number of Palestinian fr. Hebron working illegally inside the Green Line; escort them to Gaza, where they are barred fr. returning to Hebron. (HA, HP 6/8; HA 6/11)

CIA Dir. Tenet holds preliminary mtgs. with Sharon in Tel Aviv, Arafat in Ramallah. Israel presents two lists of Palestinians it wants arrested immediately: 34 Palestinians who committed anti-Israeli attacks and were released fr. PA prisons since the intifada began; some 300 Palestinians that "participated in the recent violence against military and civilian targets." The PA says it will coordinate with Israel and act on tips to prevent attacks, noting that it has already passed information to Israel regarding 2 possible suicide bombings since 6/1, but will not make preventive arrests without probable cause. (HA, MM 6/7; HJ, MENA, al-Quds, SA 6/7 in WNC 6/8/; MM, NYT, WP 6/8; DUS 6/8 in WNC 6/11; NYT 6/9)

In Ramallah, reps of the nationalist and Islamist groups give PLO Exec. Comm. secy. Mahmud Abbas a memorandum calling on Arafat to open a "national dialogue" to discuss forming an emergency government that includes all Palestinian factions. (AYM 6/8 in WNC 6/11; HJ 6/10 in WNC 6/12; AYM 6/12 in WNC 6/14)

Israeli-Palestinian clashes continue at a high level, leaving 2 Palestinians dead. In Jinin, senior Islamic Jihad mbr. Iyad Hardan, wanted by Israel, is assassinated when a bomb planted in a public phone he frequently uses explodes. In response to Palestinian mortar fire nr. Nahal Oz crossing and nr. Netiv Haasara kibbutz inside the Green Line that causes no damage, the IDF fires rockets at PSF posts and a power station in Gaza, wounding at least 5 Palestinians, destroying 4 buildings, damaging 10 homes, causing blackouts. The IDF also bulldozes 100 dunams of Palestinian land in Shaykh Ajlin; begins work on a new settler bypass road linking Beit El settlement with Jerusalem; raids Burqa village, arrests 2 Palestinians. Sharon announces plans to build another 708 housing units in the Jewish settlements of Ma'ale Adumim, Alfe Menashe; the State Dept. criticizes the move as "provocative." Reportedly to ease tensions over the Erez shooting on 4/4, Israel reopens the Rafah border with Egypt, says it will allow 3,000 Palestinian workers into Israel. (LAW 4/5; AFP [Internet], MM, NYT, WP, WT 4/6; MENA, al-Quds 4/6, ITAR-TASS 4/7 in WNC 4/9; MM 4/9; AYM 4/9 in WNC 4/11; al-Quds 4/11 in WNC 4/12; LAW, WJW 4/12; MA 4/17 in WNC 4/18; MEI 4/20)

Sharon orders the Israeli security services to find ways to let Jews visit the Haram al-Sharif/Temple Mount. (MENA 4/10 in WNC 4/11; WT 4/11)

In Washington, Bush receives 2 letters signed by 87 Senators, 209 House mbrs. calling on him to reconsider U.S. ties with the PLO. (REU, WP 4/6; al-Quds 4/8, HJ, MENA 4/9 in WNC 4/10; MM 4/9; SA 4/13 in WNC 4/16; HA 4/16; MM 4/18; JP 4/20)

At the weekly PA Executive Authority (EA), PLO Exec. Comm. meeting, the executive urges Palestinians to reclaim confiscated land in the West Bank, Gaza; advocates "popular confrontation" every time "Israeli bulldozers appear on Palestinian land"; vows to support such Palestinian resistance politically and financially. (MEI 12/6) (see 11/18)

Israeli Infrastructure M Ariel Sharon draws up plans for construction of 900 housing units for settlers on the Golan Heights as the 1st stage in a program to add 2,500 new residences over the next 3 yrs. Under this "Golan 2000" plan (as yet unapproved by the government), the buildings would be considered extensions of existing settlements, though they would be at a distance fr. built-up areas. The settler population would increase fr. 16,000 to 25,000; currently, 18,000 Druze live on the Golan. (MM 11/22; YA 11/22 in WNC 11/25; NYT, WP 11/23; ITV 11/24 in WNC 11/26; MM 11/25; WJW 11/28; PR 11/29; JP 11/30; MEI 12/6)

PA says it will give out up to 15 video cameras to Palestinians living nr. Israeli checkpoints so they can record any abuses of Palestinians by Israeli border police. (WP 11/23) (see 11/19)

Israel-PLO talks on implementing DoP resume in Taba, Egypt. (MENA 1/18 in FBIS 1/18; WT 1/19)

Secy. of Defense-designate Adm. Bobby Inman holds press conference to announce 1/6 withdrawal of his name, citing opposition to his nomination by Sen. Bob Dole, NYT columnist William Safire. Inman says Safire motivated by his 1981 decision as dep. director of CIA to restrict U.S. satellite intelligence provided to Israel after Israeli bombing of Iraqi nuclear reactor. Inman says then-Israeli DM Ariel Sharon complained about limitation to Secy. of Defense Caspar Weinberger, who supported Inman. (NYT, WP, WT 1/19)

PM Rabin says peace btwn. Israel and Syria may require Israel to pay a "painful price," notes he "expected more" fr. al-Asad but would "make do" and negotiate on basis of al-Asad's 1/16 Geneva statements. Rabin echoes calls for national referendum on Golan withdrawal. AP reports opposition by Likud, govt. coalition to plans for Israeli referendum on withdrawal fr. Golan. (MM 1/18, 1/19; NYT, WT 1/19)

IDF clashes with Palestinian stonethrowers at Hebron college. 7 Palestinians shot and wounded. (NYT 1/20)

PLO, Hamas officials meet in Amman to discuss Hamas participation in upcoming PNC meeting. Hamas demands 40 seats in council. (AFP 8/26, in FBIS 8/27; MEM 8/27)

Israeli police question Hanan Ashrawi, Faisal Husseini on their recent meetings in London with Palestinian officials to determine if they violated Israeli law banning contact with PLO. (MEM 8/27)

After heated debates, Lebanese parliament approves amnesty for war crimes committed during Lebanese civil war. (NYT 8/27)

Hizbullah admits it holds two Israeli prisoners. (WP 8/27)

Israeli housing min. Ariel Sharon details major plan to expand Israeli settlements. Plan would expand settlements in Jerusalem area to link them with large settlement of Ma'ale Adumim, which itself would be expanded to reach Jericho, cutting the West Bank in half. Thousands of new homes would be built. (MEM 8/27, 8/29)

Israeli cabinet agrees to equal funding of Arab, Jewish municipalities following 10- day sit-in by Arab mayors. Mayors indicate they will take their protest to the Israeli labor federation, the Histadrut, to protest unfair practices by that body, which is dominated by the Labor party. (MEM 8/27)

Palestinian human rights group Al-Haq issues report on increased Jewish settlement in o.t. Places number of settlers in W. Bank, Gaza at 104,000 along with 127,700 in E. Jerusalem. (MEM 8/27)

Soviet, Ethiopian Jewish immigrants clash in Jerusalem hotel where they live; four injured. Soviets have complained of preferential treatment extended to Ethiopians. (MEM 8/27, 8/29)

Fighting breaks out between Lebanese army and PLO, allied Islamic forces as PLO forces refuse to evacuate positions east of Sidon, Army blockades Palestinian refugee camps of al-Mi'a wa Mi'a, 'Ayn al-Hilwa. PLO officials in Tunis call for discussion with Lebanese government. (NYT, LAT, MEM 7/2; WP 7/3)

Israeli Housing Min. Ariel Sharon inaugurates new neighborhood of Israeli settlement of Mevo Dotan in the northern West Bank, one day after Pres. Bush described settlements as "counterproductive." (MEM 7/2; WP 7/3)

Palestinian leaders Hanan Ashrawi, Faisal Husseini meet with Secy. of State Baker in Washington, discuss U.S. peace initiative. (MEM 7/3)

Senior Bush admin. officials say U.S. wants Iraq to pay for American-led effort to help Kurds; operation is expected to cost over $500 million over 6 months [NYT 5/2].

Kuwaiti gov't. announces that the more than 400,000 Kuwaitis who have spent last 8 months in exile could begin returning home on 5/11 [WP, LAT 5/2].

Israeli Housing Minister Ariel Sharon meets with HUD Sec. Jack Kemp, but at White House insistence to avoid "official" meeting because of Sharon's pro-settlement views, talks are moved from Kemp's HUD office to the Israeli embassy (cf. 5/2) [WP 5/1, 5/3; NYT, LAT 5/2; CSM 5/3; IDF 5/2 in FBIS 5/2].

PLO spokesperson strongly condemns 4/30 stabbing death of French tourist in Bethlehem. Faisal Husseini sends victim's family cable of condolence. 19-year-old Palestinian surrenders to Israeli authorities and is charged with the stabbing [MEM 5/1; RMC, AVP 5/1 in FBIS 5/2].

Absorption Min. Yitzhak Perez says 17,700 immigrants arrived in Israel during April, and that some 55,000 immigrants arrived during 1st third of the year [IDF 5/1 in FBIS 5/2].

UNLU issues call no. 70, appealing for unified Palestinian response to Sec. Baker's peace initiative, warning that U.S. is trying to "impose an American solution to Palestine question," and condemning 4/30 stabbing of French tourist [MEM 5/2; AVP 5/2 in FBIS 5/3].

Israeli human rights group B'Tselem reports Israeli security forces killed 6 Palestinians during April, a 7th died after exposure to tear gas [FJ 5/6].

White House and State Dep't. denounce Israeli decision to deport 4 Gaza Palestinians, suggesting that action could jeopardize efforts to bring about peace; Israeli Housing Minister Ariel Sharon calls for mass deportations of activists from o.t. [LAT, WT 3/26].

Iraq submits to UN detailed list of Kuwaiti gov't. property it took from the emirate, including $457 million in gold and $600 million in currency [LAT 3/26].

Bahraini F.M. says that overall "security arrangement" will be negotiated to insure permanent military presence by Western and friendly Arab nations in Gulf region [NYT 3/26].

In interview with Toronto Star, Yasir Arafat offers peace plan, says PLO would accept UN buffer zone on Palestinian side of border between Israel and future Palestinian state [WT 3/26; AFP, JDS 3/25, AGS 3/26 in FBIS 3/26].

Pres. Asad and King Hussein meet in Damascus as part of Arab fence-mending effort [WT 3/26; ADS, DDS 3/26 in FBIS 3/26; MET 4/2].

Israelis successfully test fire Arrow antiballistic missile; it is 2d test flight, and coordinated with American military [JDS 3/25 in FBIS 3/26].

Sec. Baker holds 7-hour meeting with Pres. Asad in Damascus; American officials decline to comment on contents [NYT, LAT, WP, WT 3/14; CSM 3/15; MET 3/26].

Palestinian human rights workers and community leaders say more than 100 Palestinians have disappeared in the 2 weeks since allied forces recovered Kuwait; PLO says over 3,500 Palestinians have been detained at checkpoints. Bush admin. says this is "a big concern" [LAT, NYT, WT 3/14].

Taking 1st clear step to aid Iraqi insurgents, Pres. Bush accuses Iraq of violating cease-fire by using helicopter gunships against rebels; Bush warns Saddam Hussein against further use [NYT, LAT, WT 3/14; CSM 3/15].

Bush also warns Iran not to seize any Iraqi territory during rebellion [WP 3/14].

Demonstrators in Mosul, Iraq storm 2 prisons and release 4,000 political prisoners, according to Kurdish leaders. Clashes between loyalists and rebels are reported in Baghdad. Three-day Beirut conference of Iraqi opposition leaders ends with an appeal to Iraqi loyalists to help topple Saddam [NYT, LAT, WP, WT 3/14; KUNA, SANA, INRA 3/13 in FBIS 3/14].

Japan transfers equivalent of $8.6 billion to its Gulf Peace Fund, fulfilling its pledge of aid for allied forces, according to gov't. spokesperson. No mention is made of the fact that Japan had promised $9 billion [LAT 3/14].

Bassam Abu Sharif, advisor to Arafat, gives interview to Sky Television in which he suggests borders of Palestinian state are negotiable, offers other "concessions" (cf. 3/18) [AVP, BBC 3/13 in FBIS 3/14].

P.M. Shamir asks Aliyah Committee Chairman Ariel Sharon to withdraw his letter of resignation; Sharon complies [JDS 3/13 in FBIS 3/14].

Algerian National Television Service broadcasts 24-hour telethon to raise money for and express solidarity with people of Iraq [APS 3/14 in FBIS 3/14].

Meeting with Sec. Baker in Riyadh, representatives of the 8 Arab countries allied with U.S. in Gulf war give general endorsement to Pres. Bush's Middle East peace initiative; but press for concessions and flexibility from Israel [NYT, WP, LAT, CSM 3/11; KUNA 3/10 in FBIS 3/11].

On eve of Sec. Baker's visit to Israel, Palestinian fatally stabs 4 Israeli women at bus stop outside Jerusalem; police say assailant meant his action as "message" to Sec. Baker; Jewish bystanders throw stones at Palestinian cars and shout for revenge; Palestinians are barred from Jerusalem until further notice [NYT, LAT, WP, WT 3/11; IDF, JDS 3/10 in FBIS 3/11; CSM 3/12; FJ 3/18; MET 3/19; JPI 3/23].

18-truck convoy of medicine, food, and water leaves Jordan for Iraq. Relief officials say they are "fighting against time to try to prevent another health catastrophe" as warming weather raises threat of cholera and typhoid [LAT 3/11; MET 3/19].

Jerusalem radio reports that Ariel Sharon has submitted to P.M. Shamir his resignation as chrmn. of Ministerial Committee on Aliyah, saying he could not operate without additional powers or Shamir's support (cf. 3/13) [JDS 3/10 in FBIS 3/11].

Internal report from Israel's Housing Ministry indicates more than 10,000 new housing units are to be located in o.t., despite previous pledges by gov't. to Bush admin. to place all homes in Israel [WP, LAT 3/11].

Yasir Abd Rabbo says PLO has authorized Palestinian figures in o.t. to meet with Sec. Baker during his visit to Israel [AFP, ADS 3/10 in FBIS 3/11; AVP, TDS 3/11 in FBIS 3/12].

Israeli Inner Cabinet meets and reaffirms its adherence to its May 1989 peace plan; various ministers says Israel will not discuss Golan Heights [IDF, JDS 3/10 in FBIS 3/11]

Ariel Sharon, new housing minister, promises Israel will make no special effort to settle Soviet Jewish emigrants in O.T.: "We do not divert and we do not send any Russian immigrants or any Jew who comes from Russia" to O.T. (cf. 6/25) [IDF 6/24 in FBIS 6/25; WP, LAT, NYT 6/25; CSM 6/27].

Knesset announces plans to allow armed civilian units to patrol perimeters of O.T. settlements; creation of settlers' Civil Guard comes under fire [MEM 6/ 25].

East German president of parliament Sabine Bergmann-Pohl and her West German counterpart Rita Suessmuth visit Israel apparently to allay Israeli concerns about a unified Germany. Bergmann-Pohl says she hopes she "will be able to assist in speeding up the creation of diplomatic relations between the two countries" [WT 6/26].

Israeli transport minister Moshe Qatzav suspends inauguration of direct commercial flights between Tel Aviv and Prague because of dispute over security arrangements in Czech capital UPD 6/25 in FBIS 6/28].

Inspector general of Israeli police, Yaakov Turner, warns Palestinian residents of E. Jerusalem that more of them would be killed if they continue demonstrations that began on 6/20 [JDS 6/24 in FBIS 6/28; NYT 6/25].

Hanna Siniora, editor of Al-Fajr, says of U.S. decision to suspend dialogue with PLO that "the whole area is slipping toward a bottomless pit of hatred and suspicion." Editorials say suspension of dialogue has "put the whole region on a powder keg" and amount to reward for Shamir's intransigence [CSM 6/25].

King Hussein calls on U.S. to reassess its Middle East policy and open door for Soviet Jews who wish to settle in U.S. rather than Israel [WSJ 6/25]

Egyptian F.M. Esmat Abdel Meguid flies to Washington hoping to avert crisis in U.S.-Arab relations and reassert Egypt's role in peace process [LAT 6/25].

Hadashot reports since Arye Bibi, commander of Jerusalem district police, assumed his post, 5 Arabs have been killed by police or border guard fire in the district. Under Bibi's predecessor Yosef Yehuday, no one was killed by police gunfire; due to relative quiet in O.T., Jerusalem is becoming intifada's frontline [HAD 6/25 in FBIS 6/28].

U.S.-Israel settlement dispute appears to escalate as P.M. Shamir insists that new Jewish neighborhoods in E. Jerusalem would be expanded with "as many Soviet Jewish immigrants as possible" [WP 3/6].

UNLU issues leaflet no. 53, entitled "the women's call"; JDS reports leaflet does not break any new ground [JDS 3/6 in FBIS 3/6].

PLO delivers note to Washington, saying it rejects Israeli attempts to ignore issue of E. Jerusalem inany Palestinian-Israeli dialogue [NAH 3/5 in FBIS 3/7].

Pres. Bush meets with Seymour Reich, pres. of the Conference of Presidents of American Jewish Organizations; admin. officials say Bush "reiterated that U.S. policy toward Jerusalem is unchanged." Reich says Bush told him connection of E. Jerusalem to W. Bank may have been "unfortunate linkage" [WP, LAT 3/6].

In op-ed piece in New York Times, Ariel Sharon explains he resigned from Israeli gov't. because current peace efforts "reward the Palestinians for their terrorism and increase the risks of war" [NYT 3/5].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Ariel Sharon, minister of industry, states that Israel must "eliminate the heads of the terrorist organizations, first of all Arafat" [WP 7/18]. Palestinians observe general strike throughout O.T. [FJ 7/24]. F. M. Arens states that it is impossible to hold free elections in O.T., while U.S. is holding talks with PLO [WP 7/18].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Soldiers demolish 2 Palestinian homes in Gaza City. At least 35 Palestinians are reported injured in O.T. [FJ 7/24]. Al-Fajr cites army sources as saying it costs Israel $500,000 per day to fight intifadah [FJ 7/17].

Arab World: SLA shells Palestinian positions near Sidon [FJ 7/24]. Israeli tanks fire on Sunni villages near Tyre, killing 1, wounding 10 [MET 7/25].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: At inner cabinet meeting ministers Yitzhaq Modai and Ariel Sharon call for Israeli annexation of occupied territories; ministers from Labor party counter that annexation of 850,000 W. Bank Palestinians would dilute the Jewish character of Israel [WP 8/4]. In Nablus total strike is observed [FJ 8/7].

Arab World: In Baghdad the PLO announces it will perform duties of legitimate representative of Palestinian people; it gives little indication how it will carry out its new duties in territories [WP 8/4].

Military

Occupied Palestine/Israel: IDF destroys 10 homes, seals 2 of families of people suspected of throwing Molotov cocktails at army patrols, settlers [WP 8/4, FJ 8/7]. In Nablus Israeli troops use rubber bullets, helicopters to quell demonstrators. In Irtas, near Bethlehem, troops arrest 11. Clashes occur in Salfit, Jabalya, Khan Yunis, Rafah, Gaza City, Beach, Bayt Hanun, and Bayt Lahiya [FJ 8/7].

Other Countries: Negotiations in U.S. Congress clear way for Kuwait to buy sophisticated weapons from U.S.; restriction will be placed on the weapons to ensure Israeli security [WP 8/4].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Hadashot reports that MK Moshe Amirav recently met with PLO officials in Paris; meeting was arranged by Israeli officials wanting to establish ties with the PLO [JPS 6/22]. One-day strike is observed in the occupied territories [FJ 6/26]. Minister of Trade and Industry Ariel Sharon tells 'Al Hamishmar the situation in the occupied territories cannot continue; if Rabin is unable to control the occupied territories he should be replaced; and if Sharon had been D. M. in December the uprising would have never occurred [JPS 6/22].

Other Countries: Amnesty International asks Israel to investigate the use of tear gas to see if it caused the deaths of up to 40 people [NYT 6/23].

Military

Occupied Palestine/Israel: In Rafah refugee camp a 17-year-old Palestinian is killed by soldiers [FJ 6/26]. Soldiers shoot, wound 2 Palestinians; Israeli civilian shoots, wounds one Palestinian in clashes in the occupied territories [WT 6/22]. IDF reports the death of a 20-year-old Palestinian in a Gaza hospital [NYT 6/23]. 

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli troops curfew Balata refugee camp, conduct house-to-house searches, arrest dozens of Palestinians [JP 11/24; FJ 11/29]. Army stops group of 50 would-be settlers who attempt to squat in Jericho [JP 11/24].

Arab World: Israeli forces patrolling in S. Lebanon security zone kill 2 armed Palestinian gunmen; 2 Israelis are wounded [JP 11/24]. President Mubarak states Egypt is urging PLO to reconsider position on UN resolutions 242 and 338 to ease way for intl. M. E. peace conference; comments follow 3 hours of talks with U.S. Asst. Sec. of State Richard Murphy [JP 11/24].

Military Action

Arab World: Syria begins placing longer-range SAM-2 anti-aircraft missiles along Syrian border with Lebanon, withdrawing shorter-range SAM-6 and SAM-8 missiles from Lebanese territory [JP 12/18; MEP 12/20; NYT 12/26]. Egyptian airliner carrying nearly 100 passengers is hijacked over the Mediterranean by Arabs identifying themselves as "Egypt's Revolution." After landing in Malta, several bodies are thrown out of the plane [WP, BG, TS 11/24].

Other Countries: Israel and Argentina pledge to increase volume of bilateral trade at conclusion of visit to Argentina by Trade Min. Ariel Sharon [JP 11/24].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Mayor Iliyas Furayj of Bethlehem and Hanna Siniora, editor of al-Fajr newspaper, leave separately for 'Amman for talks with "very high up people"; Furayj says he will discuss "municipal matters," Siniora says he will discuss "how we can repair the damage between the Jordanians and the Palestinians" [LT 10/25]. Finance Min. Yitzhak Moda'i states plans for 6 new settlements in the W. Bank will not be implemented despite his earlier statements to that effect [JP 10/25]. Negev Bedouin refuse to elect delegation to represent them on Supreme Committee on Bedouin Affairs, chaired by advisor on Arab affairs Yosef Ganat [JP 10/25]. Ariel Sharon states in TV interview Jordan must remove PLO bases from its territory as condition for negotiating with Israel [MG 10/25].

Arab World: King Hussein meets with Pres. Mubarak in 'Amman to discuss Peres' proposals for direct talks. Hussein states at press conference that U.S. Congress will not force him to negotiate directly with Israel by delaying arms sales to Jordan [NYT, CSM 10/25]. Al-Quds newspaper in Jerusalem reports Jordan has ordered several PLO offices in 'Amman closed, ordered staff reductions at others, and has refused permission to enter to several PLO commanders, including the head of Fateh's Force 17, Abu Tayyib, and Muhammad Milham, PLO Executive Committee member who refused to sign statement prepared by Brit. For. Min. denouncing use of violence and recognizing Israel's right to exist. (Move follows Arafat's recent cancellation of trip to 'Amman, reported failure of Arafat's deputy Khaled al-Hasan to reach understanding during recent talks with King Hussein on breakdown in talks with British For. Min.). Jordanian army units are reportedly strengthened near PLO camps [JP, FJ 10/25; LT 10/271]. Reports indicate Bishop Iliyas Khuri, PLO Executive Committee member, has signaled his wish to resign over embarrassment due to recent cancellation of talks with British Foreign Ministry [JP 10/25].

Other Countries: State Dept. announces Asst. Sec. of State Richard Murphy made unpublicized trip to Jordan this week to give King Hussein private assurances from P.M. Peres about sincere desire for negotiations. Murphy then flies to New York for talks with Shultz, and later joins Shultz in talks with Peres [NYT 10/25]. U.S. Senate votes 97 to 1 to postpone Pres. Reagan's proposed $1.9 billion arms sale to Jordan until 1 March unless Jordan begins direct peace negotiations with Israel before then [WP, PI 10/25]. Hussein charges U.S. with "reneging" and "blackmail" [WP 10/25]. European Parliament votes to back "with all its available means" P.M. Shimon Peres' peace plan; resolution calls for recognition of the PLO as the representative of the Palestinian people, calls for PLO participation in peace process. Resolution proposed by Socialist group, backed by Italian Communists [JTA 10/25]. French For. Min. Roland Dumas temporarily postpones upcoming visit to Israel to express "displeasure" over 10/1 Israeli air strike on PLO base in Tunis [JTA 10/25].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Shots are fired at Israeli motorist on Jerusalem-Jericho road as he changes a flat. Area is curfewed; no arrests made [JP 10/25]. 

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Ariel Sharon states in TV interview that P.M. Shimon Peres has been holding "more than (secret) contacts" with Jordanian, Palestinian, and U.S. leaders and has been holding actual "talks"; Sharon claims Peres should have reported this "process" to the government [JP 10/24]. P.M. Shimon Peres meetsecretly with Sri Lankan P.M. Jayawardene in Paris; there are no diplomatic relations between 2 countries, but 15-year-old trade ban between 2 countries was lifted this July, Israel has trained Sri Lankan police in "anti-terrorist" techniques [JP 10/29]

Arab World: PLO headquarters in Tunis condemns Israel's proposals for direct negotiations with Jordan, says PLO involvement is necessary for peace in the M. E. [PI 10/24]. King Hussein welcomes the "spirit" of Peres' 10/21 negotiations proposal at the UN although says it did not "meet the needs of the moment" [NYT 10/24].

Other Countries: Pres. Reagan, facing overwhelming congressional pressure, endorses resolution barring arms sale to Jordan until 1 March 1986 unless Jordan begins "direct and meaningful peace negotiations" with Israel before then [NYT, WP, LAT, BG 10/24]. Jewish Telegraphic Agency reports Canada has refused to grant entry visa to MK Meir Kahane, who is in U.S. on fund-raising tour [JTA 10/24].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Two bombs explode in market in Afula, injuring 5Israelis including a baby; 80 Palestinians are rounded up for questioning. Bombs are the 3rd and 4th in 4 days inside the green line [WP, JTA 10/24].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Ariel Sharon accuses P.M. Shimon Peres of "withholding information about important diplomatic talks from the govemment" [BG 10/18]. Knesset votes 39-22 to limit partially MK Muhammad Mi'ari's parliamentary immunity following speech he made in E. Jerusalem in which he expressed solidarity with Fahd Qawasmeh and Yasir Arafat [JP 11/7]. Nazareth district court finds Golan Heights Druze man Rafik Kalani, 20, guilty of giving information on Israeli army strength to Syria; Kalani allegedly confessed to the charges UP 10/16]. Galilee Palestinians demonstrate outside P.M. Shimon Peres' office while members of the Regional Committee of Arab Local Council Heads meet with Interior Ministry officials over $8 million in budget deficits plaguing the Arab councils inside the green line; Umm al-Fahm town has not been able to pay municipal employees for 5 months [FJ 11/18].

Arab World: King Hussein states there is "no truth at all" to PLO claims that last minute changes had been introduced toa statement Britain said 2 PLO delegates had agreed to sign; Hussein acknowledges that PLO rep. Muhammad Milham "was not aware, apparently, ofthe details" in the statement, negotiated by Jordan on behalf of the PLO, until it was shown to him in London [WP 10/16]. About 1,000 Sudanese demonstrators march on the U.S. embassy in Khartoum, buming the U.S. flag, after speech there by Yasir Arafat [NYT 10/16].

Other Countries: Pres. Reagan states he will "never" apologize to Pres. Mubarak for the interception of the Egyptian plane [NYT, WP 10/16]. British cabinet ministers have categorically denied the U.S. exerted any pressure to have the joint Jordanian-Palestinian delegation meeting cancelled [CSM 10/16]. Italian Defense Ministry spokesman states U.S. evidence allegedly implicating Muhammad 'Abbas in the Achille Lauro affair arrived in Italy 30 minutes after 'Abbas had already been allowed to leave and it originally came from Israeli intelligence sources [WP 10/16]. Italy announces arrest and charging of 2 additional Palestinians for alleged involvement in the Achille Lauro hijacking [CT 10/16]. U.S. federal grand jury in Washington, D.C. begins hearings on Achille Lauro hijacking [LAT 10/17]. Friends and family of Leon Klinghoffer announce formation of memorial fund in his name to "fight international terrorism" [LAT 10/18].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Gasoline bomb thrown at Israeli bus causes no injuries [JP 10/16].

Arab World: 2 Palestinians killed in clash with Israeli troops in security zone; no Israeli casualties reported [JP 10/16]. 2 Arabs on flight from Iraq are arrested in Rome airport carrying suitcase bombs; they carry false Moroccan passports [CT 10/16].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: P. M. Shimon Peres denounces Arafat's offer of "land for peace," characterizes the PLO as "talking peace in Jordan [while] killing people in Israel" [JP 9/9]. Soldiers fire rubber bullets and tear gas on a group called An End to Occupation as they demonstrate in Ramallah to protest Israeli deportation and administrative detention practices; 21 protesters are detained. Army declares the area a closed military zone [GU 9/18]. Ariel Sharon begins suit against Time magazine in a Tel Aviv court. Under Israeli law, Sharon need not prove malice to substantiate his claim [JP 9/9]. Charges have been filed against Israeli joumalist Amnon Kapeliouk for visiting Jordan in March and April. Under the 1948 Emergency Defense Regulations, Kapeliouk could receive up to a year in prison for entering acountry in a state of war with Israel [JP 9/8].

Other Countries: New York Times reports the Soviet Union has begun a new campaign to encourage Palestinians to reject American-sponsored efforts at Arab-Israeli peace talks. In recent weeks George Habash, Nayef Hawatmeh, Khaled al-Fahoum, and close Arafat aide Salah Khalaf (Abu lyad) have visited Moscow. Soviet leaders have expressed "total opposition" to the 11 February accord between Arafat and King Hussein [NYT 9/8].

Military Action

Arab World: Fighting continues for the 6th straight day between 2,500 Palestinian fighters inside Burj al-Barajinah refugee camp and Amal militiamen outside [NYT 9/9]. Lebanese officials meet with Syrian Vice Pres. 'Abd al-Halim Khaddam in Damascus to ask for Syrian military intervention to stop the fighting [LT 9/9].

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: 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].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Manufacturers, govt. and Histadrut union agree on 8-mo. proposal to cut wages, subsidies [JP 1/25, LAT 1/26]. Over 600 Ethiopian Jews airlifted to Israel have been drafted into IDF; plans indicate induction of additional 2,000, creation of Ethiopian battalion in W. Bank [DW 1/24].

Other Countries: New York jury clears Time magazine of libeling Ariel Sharon in controversial article (11/12), but criticizes Time's reporting; previously ruled that article was inaccurate and had defamed Sharon [NYT 1/25]. [Many of Sharon's legal bills paid by rich Americans, Israeli residents of U.S.] [VV 1/29]. US Pres. Reagan asserts PLO, Col. Qadhafi, Ayatollah Khomeini assisting Nicaragua, creating "new danger" in Central America [NYT 1/25].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: 2 Israeli vehicles hit by gasoline bombs near Dheisheh camp; no injuries [FJ 2/1].

Arab World: Action in S. Lebanon: bomb injures 2 IDF troops near Deir Zahrani. RPGs fired at IDF liaison bldg., Nabatiya; no injuries. Katyusha fired at SLA position in Deir Qanun; no injuries. RPGs fired at SLA roadblock near Nabatiya; none reported wounded. IDF kill Palestinian in gun battle with masked men near 'Ain al-Hilweh; kill 6 commandos near jezzine [JP 1/25]. SLA soldier killed by resistance near 'Abassiya [JP 1/27].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Gov't. orders Palestinian money-changers in Jerusalem stop trading in US dollars. Ramallah military court fines Fatmeh Ja'afari IS 20,000 for possessing "illegal literature" [purchased in Jerusalem]. DM Rabin meets with Mayor Freij, approves $700,000 Saudi grant for Bethlehem development projects. FM Shamir calls for creation of new UN including "only democratic countries." Nahal inaugurates 4 settlements: Rotem in Jordan Valley, Heahzut near Gush Etzion, Amitai & Ye'elon in Negev. Morechet Benyamin Co. dumps truckloads of rubble on jib village land, rendering it unusable for farming. FM Shamir expresses alarm to visiting US congressmen at apparent Jordanian-PLO rapprochement.

Arab World: PNC Chrmn. Khalid Fahoum declines to issue invitations to PNC mtg. called by Chrmn. Arafat pending further unity talks. Christians & Muslim unite in general strike through S. Lebanon to protest Israeli kidnapping of Amal Shi'ite leaders; Phalangist Joseph Ghanem sends letter of solidarity with demonstrators in Sidon.

Other Countries: 9th anniversary of UN resolution equating Zionism with racism. Special UN panel publicizes findings on Israeli activity in occupied territories; reports Israel continues to disregard Geneva Convention on civilian rights under occupation. In New York Federal Court, hearings begin for Ariel Sharon's libel suit against Time magazine.

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Curfew imposed on Dheisheh camp after Border Policeman hit with thrown rock; boys' school raided by Border Police; area declared closed military zone.

Arab World: 2 Israeli soldiers wounded by light arms fire in Jibsheet; 2 wounded by RPG fire in Ghaziya village, S. Lebanon.

Other Countries: Bomb explodes in El AL office, Vienna; no injuries.

Social/Economic/Political:

Occupied Palestine/Israel: League for Human and Civil Rights in Israel charges IDF detention center at Fara'a (West Bank) is factory for torture of inmates (mostly minors). 2 prisoners to be freed in Nov. 1983 prisoner exchange still held in Atlit prison, appeal to High Court for release. Haifa U.'s Arab Student Union pres. suspended for semester on charges of disturbing MK Sharon lecture (1/19/84), at which he and student companions were tear gassed while attempting to enter lecture hall. Pres. Herzog rejects pardon request by Uri Adiv. [See JPS (Winter 1984) pp. 176-178.] Naturei Karta's Rabbi Hirsch says on US television PLO is sole & democratically-chosen representative of Palestinian people.

Other Countries: Israeli DM Arens reportedly calls US Sec. of Defense Weinberger "a prime candidate for psychoanalysis."

Military Action:

Occupied Palestine/Israel: IDF uses tear gas against Arab students demonstrating near yeshiva at Joseph's Tomb, Nablus. Egged bus traveling between Kafr Saba and Qalqilya, and IDF patrol near Balata refugee camp stoned. IDF soldier wounded while forcing dispersal of demonstrators at Nur Shams refugee camp. Beitunia students protest Egypt-Israel treaty and moves by local mayor to normalize relations with "civil administration. "

Arab World: In S. Lebanon, Israeli-backed South Lebanon Army invades Jibsheet village, kills 2 women, 1 man; IDF searches village, rounding up about 100 "suspects of hostility to Israel." IDF patrol ambushed south of Zahrani River, 1 assailant killed. 

Social/Economic/Political:

Occupied Palestine/Israel: 2 Galilee youths released after arrest (2/29/84) for hoisting Palestinian flag on anniversary of Sabra & Shatila massacres; in court, defendents describe torture used on them; suit filed against interrogators. MK Sarid submits letter of protest over MK Sharon's violation of Knesset "code of ethics" by accepting money for US lecture tour. [Sharon appealed for dispensation on grounds he is suing Time magazine for reporting his connection with Sabra & Shatila massacres.] PM Shamir denies charges by Sharon that his gov't. is bowing to US pressure to impede settlement drive. MKs Zakin (Mapam) and Aloni (CRM) urge PM Shamir to declare "TNT" a terrorist organization. [1948 Prevention of Terrorism Ordinance would then allow security agencies to fight Jewish terrorism.] After 3 years, Bani Zad village resumes relation with "civil administration" upon promise of IS10 million grant for civic improvements. 8 Palestinians arraigned in military court for murder of Kiryat Arba squatter Aharon Gross (7/7/83); 5 plead not guilty, 1 claims self-defense. 7 West Bank squatters and 2 from Green Line, all of US origin and followers of Meir Kahane, arrested for bombing attempt on al-Aqsa Mosque and shooting attack on Arab bus (3/4/84); news blackout on investigations imposed.

Arab World: Gemayel abrogates US-sponsored May 17 agreement with Israel. Israel protests Egypt's permitting Palestinian conference in Cairo later this month; complains conference will provide opportunity for "anti-Israeli propaganda."

Other Countries: European Community Commission Pres. Thorn says Egypt urging Europeans to press US to deal with PLO.

Military Action:

Arab World: Israelis bomb alleged PLO positions in 2 raids on Aley, Lebanon.

Military Action:

Numerous attacks on IDF in Sidon announced by Lebanese National Resistance Front.

Casualties:

16 IDF soldiers wounded when military bus triggers mine near Kfar Mishki in southern Bekaa; at least 10 IDF soldiers reportedly killed or wounded in Sidon attacks.

Political Responses:

Israel/ Occupied Territories: Chief of Staff Levy issues new, more explicit and restrictive IDF guidelines for dealing with West Bank and Gaza Palestinians; 15 Israeli women from Parents Against Silence group join vigil outside Prime Minister's house calling for IDF withdrawal from Lebanon; Nazareth police chief bans meeting between Ibna al-Balad, other nationalist organizations and Israeli Communist Party; Sharon releases Lebanon security plan, says Haddad's role must be streng- thened, Lebanese Army must displace Druze and PLO forces in Chouf, UN troops in South should be redeployed as buffer between IDF and Syrians, Shultz plan should be scrapped and replaced by realistic diplomacy, Syria will not leave Bekaa Valley because it would lose $500m a year in taxes levied on hashish trade; January-April trade deficit in Israel up 35% over same period last year.

Palestinians/ Lebanese: Lebanese-Israeli-US meeting at Netanya to review text of withdrawal agreement; PLO officials in Damascus say negotiations with Lebanon for withdrawal of PLO forces must settle question of security for Palestinian civilians; PLO Chairman Arafat makes first visit to Lebanon since August last year, travels from Damascus to Bekaa Valley to deal with dissident PLO officers.

Arab Governments: Syrian Foreign Minister says Syria rejects the withdrawal agreement in form and substance, calls it a grave danger to Syria's security; Syrian envoys meet with former Lebanese President Suleiman Franjieh, and former Prime Minister Rashid Karami reportedly to establish national front in opposition to withdrawal agreement.

US and Other Countries: US Defense Secretary Weinberger says there is no reason why US-Israel memorandum of agreement cannot be revived, expects Reagan Administration will provide all technological information Israel requests for its development of the Lavi fighter; Secretary of State Shultz says Syrian position on troop withdrawal agreement is not a rejection; largest British film and TV union general council modifies its position on members working in Israel, will allow members to work there but will provide union backing to those who decide to boycott.