The Palestine Chronology

Israeli-Palestinian clashes intensify, leaving 8 Palestinians, 1 German doctor dead, over 110 Palestinians injured. (1 Palestinian dies en route to the hospital when his ambulance is blocked by Jewish settlers for over an hr.) A 9th Palestinian dies of injuries received earlier. The IDF shells Fatah headquarters in Hebron, Salfit, Tulkarm and an armory in Jericho. The IDF also shells residential areas of Bayt Jala, Bethlehem, Dayr al-Balah, Nablus, Tulkarm and bulldozes Palestinian agricultural lands in Rafah. IDF shelling in Bayt Jala damages a school and a cultural center, destroys an unfinished apartment complex. In Hebron, Jewish settlers vandalize Palestinian property, uproot trees, damage an irrigation system. (ADM, LAW 11/15; AP, HA [Internet], LAW, MM, NYT, WP, WT 11/16; NYT, WP 11/17)

A demonstration in support of the Palestinians is held at New York University, where 2 IDF soldiers speak as part of a national tour to present the Israeli position on the ongoing clashes. (al-Awda Internet news group 11/15)

On the anniversary of the PLO's 1988 declaration of independence in Algiers, the PA does not unilaterally declare a Palestinian state or reaffirm the Algiers declaration as Israel, the U.S. had feared. Due to the ongoing closure, the PLOCC is unable to meet as planned. (AP 11/15) (see 9/10)

Senior Israeli, PA officials reportedly hold a secret mtg. at the Egyptian mission to the UN in New York to discuss options for a UN buffer force in the West Bank, Gaza. (WP 11/16, 11/18)

First Lady Hillary Clinton (the senator-elect fr. NY), U.S. special envoy Ross, Russian FM Ivanov are among those who attend the funeral of PM Yitzhak Rabin's widow, Leah Rabin, who died on 11/12. Arafat sends his condolences via video tape, which is aired on Israeli TV. Afterward, Ross meets with Barak. (MA [Internet], MM 11/15; MM, NYT, WJW, WP, WT 11/16; JP 11/24)

In Marseilles, France, a 2-day Euro-Mediterranean FMs mtg. opens to review regional cooperation efforts over the past 5 yrs. The session focuses on the Israeli-Palestinian crisis as it affects regional stability. (AFP [Internet], JT [Internet] 11/15; see also JT 11/13 in WNC 11/14; AYM 11/14 in WNC 11/15; SA 11/15, ANSA, ATL 11/16 in WNC 11/17)

In Lebanon, PM Hariri, Hizballah spiritual leader Shaykh Hassan Nasrallah hold their 1st in 8 yrs. during which they reportedly agreed not to give Israel a pretext to strike Lebanon while upholding Beirut's right to recover Shaba` Farms, to coordinate efforts to keep the issue of Syria's troop presence in the country out of the public domain. (MM 11/17)

Israel restricts Palestinians' access to Jerusalem for the 3d Friday in a row. Israeli-Palestinian clashes intensify again, leaving 4 Palestinians dead, 250 injured. Main flash points are Bayt Jala, Bethlehem, Hebron, Jinin, Qalqilya, Qarni checkpoint, Ramallah, Tulkarm. IDF troops outside Ramallah open fire on an ambulance, severely injuring the driver. In Gaza, the IDF bulldozes another 3 dunams of Palestinian land nr. Kefar Darom settlement. At least 3 roadside bombs explode nr. Bethlehem, injuring 1 Israeli border policeman. A synagog in Efrat is vandalized, presumably by Palestinians, though how they entered the Jewish settlement is unclear. (ADM, LAW, MM, PCHR 10/27; IDF Radio [Internet], Guardian [Internet], NYT, WT 10/28; AYM 10/31 in WNC 11/1)

Palestinian refugees in `Ayn al-Hilwa camp in Lebanon demonstrate against the weak Arab League statement issued on 10/22. In Nairobi, 1,000s of Kenyans march in solidarity with the Palestinians. In the U.S., similar rallies are held outside the New York Times offices in New York, as well as in Hartford, Sacramento. (Panafrican News Agency [Internet] 10/27; al-Safir 10/28 in WNC 10/31)

This morning, the IDF begins pulling back reinforcements fr. the West Bank, Gaza after reaching a new agmt. with the PA. Initially, clashes abate, but fighting continues at old hot spots (e.g., Hebron, Nablus, Netzarim Junction, Ramallah, Tulkarm). Within hrs., the IDF sends reinforcements back in, firing antitank missiles and deploying helicopter gunships, tanks against Palestinians, killing 3, injuring 40. In Nablus, 27 Palestinians are injured when and IDF helicopter fires rockets at an apartment building. 1 Palestinian injured last wk. dies. Inside Israel, massive demonstrations continue across the Galilee following 2 funerals for Israeli Arabs killed by the Israeli police earlier in the wk. (MM 10/3; AFP, IRNA, MENA 10/3, JT, Le Monde 10/4 in WNC 10/6; CSM, NYT, WP, WT 10/4; AYM 10/4 in WNC 10/10; MEI 10/13)

Barak meets with Israeli Arab leaders to "ease concerns about the neglect of their community," agrees to set up a special cabinet comm. to address Arab concerns. Under pressure fr. Israeli Arab MKs, he bans police fr. using live ammunition against Israeli protesters unless there is "clear and immediate danger to life." The Israeli government also releases plans to improve roads in schools in Israeli Arab towns, raise the standard of living of the Arab minority. (MM 10/3; NYT, WT 10/4; MEI 10/13)

In Beirut, 20,000 Palestinians, Lebanese march to UN House to protest Israeli actions. Some 10,000 Palestinian refugees demonstrate in camps in Rashidiyya, Sidon, and Tyre. In Amman, Jordanians observe a strike in solidarity with the Palestinians, and Jordanian riot police wield clubs against 100s of stone-throwing demonstrators marching on the Israeli emb. In Norway, some 100 Norwegians take part in a violent protest outside the Israeli emb. in Oslo, burning flags, throwing bottles, breaking windows. Rallies are also reported in Egypt, Greece, Oman, Pakistan, the UAE. In the U.S., anti-Israeli protests are held in Austin, Cleveland, Philadelphia, Raleigh, San Francisco, Washington, and outside the CNN offices in Atlanta, Alabama, Florida, Tennessee, Toronto. (JP [Internet], MM 10/4; JT 10/4 in WNC 10/6; Daily Star [Internet] 10/5; MM 10/6; MEI 10/13)

The IDF admits that its soldiers fired the shots that killed a Muhammad al-Dura at Netzarim Junction on 10/1 but blames Palestinians for the "cynical use" of children in confrontations with IDF troops. (WP 10/4; NYT 10/5) (see 10/2)

Despite another attempt to secure a cease-fire, Israeli-Palestinian clashes in Israel and throughout the West Bank and Gaza continue, leaving 10 Palestinians, 7 Israeli Arabs, 1 IDF soldier, 1 Jewish settler dead and some 300 Palestinians injured; 3 Israeli Arabs wounded on 10/1 also die. Israel closes roads in n. Israel, the West Bank, Gaza to civilian traffic. Around 30 exchanges of gunfire btwn. Israeli security forces and armed Palestinian civilians and police are reported. Nr. Tulkarm, Palestinians set afire an industrial plant owned by Jewish settlers. Nr. Hebron, Jewish settlers fatally shoot a Palestinian. The IDF dep. chief of staff Moshe Ya'alon warns that if Palestinians do not stop attacking troops guarding Joseph's Tomb in Nablus, the IDF will move in even though the area is under full PA control; the IDF has taken up positions around areas A but has not crossed into them. Barak authorizes his forces to use "all necessary means" to protect Israeli lives, quell riots. (AP, MM 10/2; AFP, ANSA, EFE [Madrid], Interfax, RL, XIN 10/2 in WNC 10/3; RL, SAPA [Johannesburg] 10/2, JT, HJ, al-Quds, SA 10/3 in WNC 10/6; CSM, MM, NYT, WP, WT 10/3; HJ, al-Quds, Sabah 10/3, MA 10/6 in WNC 10/10; MM 10/9)

The IDF claims that Muhammad al-Dura, the 12-yr.-old killed at Netzarim Junction on 10/1, had been throwing stones at soldiers before he was shot, contradicting widely broadcast footage of the incident recorded by France 2 TV showing the boy and his father pinned down by gunfire for 45 minutes. The pair were returning from errands and had been dropped off by a taxi, which refused to take them across Netzarim Junction because of heavy IDF fire. (Age [Melbourne], HA [Internet], MM, WP 10/3; MA 10/6 in WNC 10/10)

U.S. secy. of state Albright announces that she will meet with Arafat, Barak in Paris on 10/4 to discuss the clashes, the peace process. All 3 will then meet with Mubarak in Sharm al-Shaykh on 10/5. (MM, NYT, WP, WT 10/3; Radio France International 10/3 in WNC 10/6)

In Amman, Arafat, King Abdallah discuss the Israeli-Palestinian clashes, call on Israel to pull back forces to restore calm, and urge Arab states to convene an emergency summit. In Cairo, Mubarak, Syrian pres. Asad also call for an Arab summit. Massive rallies protesting Israeli actions are held in Amman, Cairo, Damascus, refugee camps in Lebanon, Yemen. Protests are also held outside Israeli embassies and legations in many European and North American cities, including Ann Arbor, Austin, Brussels, Chicago, Detroit, Houston, London, Los Angeles, Montreal, New Haven, New York, Ottawa. (AP, BDL, UPI 10/2; MENA 10/2 in WNC 10/3; MENA 10/2, JT, MENA 10/3, JT 10/4 in WNC 10/6; NYT, WP, WT 10/3; AYM 10/3 in WNC 10/12; MM, WT 10/4; WJW 10/5; HJ 10/5, al-Quds 10/7 in WNC 10/10; JP 10/13)

In Paris, PA Planning M Shaath briefs French pres. Chirac on the ongoing clashes. Chirac calls on both sides to deescalate the violence, calls for an international inquiry into the clashes. (AFP 10/2, 10/3, Le Monde 10/4 in WNC 10/6)

In New York, the UNSC begins closed-door mtgs. on several draft resolutions regarding the ongoing Palestinian-Israeli clashes. Britain, the U.S. lobby against issuing a resolution, saying, at most, a statement should be read. (UPI 10/3; HA [Internet] 10/4; WJW 10/5)

On their 7th straight day, Palestinian demonstrations in the West Bank and Gaza escalate again (see 5/14-15), leaving 100 Palestinians injured. The worst fighting takes place in Hebron, Jinin, Nablus, Ramallah, Tulkarm. Since 5/14, 5 Palestinians have been killed, some 600 injured. (NYT, WP, WT 5/21; AYM 5/22 in WNC 5/23)

In s. Lebanon, the IDF attacks a Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine-General Command (PFLP-GC) base a mile fr. the Syrian border, destroying 10 tanks, killing 3 PFLP-GC mbrs., wounding 3 others. (WP, WT 5/21)

With increased fighting in s. Lebanon and the occupied territories, PM Barak cancels plans to leave today for the U.S. to meet with Pres. Bill Clinton (5/22-23) and American Jewish leaders (5/21) and to address the annual American Israel Public Affairs Comm. (AIPAC) conference (5/22). (NYT, WP, WT 5/21; AYM 5/22 in WNC 5/23, 5/24)

In Moscow, Russian dep. FM Vasily Sredin meets with ambs. of Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, the PA, Syria and the Arab League envoy to discuss the peace process. (ITAR-TASS 11/26 in WNC 11/29)

Chmn. of China's National People's Congress, Li Peng, arrives in Israel on a 6-day visit aimed at strengthening bilateral ties, especially in military cooperation. (XIN 11/25 in WNC 11/26, 11/29; WP, WT 11/26; XIN 11/29 in WNC 12/1; AFP 11/30 in WNC 12/1; XIN 11/30, 12/1 in WNC 12/2; NYT, WT 12/2)

In Tulkarm, 600 Palestinians fr. West Bank refugee camps hold mtg. to demand that the PA to fight for the refugees' right of return during final status negotiations. (BADIL press release 11/29)

Palestinians in Gaza City strike to protest price hikes on basic goods, such as flour and gas; they accuse PA monopolies of banning imports fr. Israel, then increasing prices. PA says it will investigate. (MENL 11/25)

Turkey's court of appeals upholds the death sentence against Kurdish Workers Party (PKK) leader Abdallah Ocalan. The European Union (EU) warns that the decision may affect Turkey's chances of joining the EU. (MM 11/25; ATL 11/25 in WNC 11/26; CSM, NYT, WP, WT 11/26) (see 6/29)

U.S special envoy Ross holds final unsuccessful mtg. with PM Netanyahu. State Dept. says that since no gaps were closed during Ross's tour, it is not considering a Washington summit; says that "one option has always been for us to disengage from this kind of direct catalytic role." Ross goes to Sharm al-Shaykh to brief Egyptian pres. Mubarak. (MM 3/30; IDF Radio, MENA 3/30 in WNC 3/31; ITV, QY 3/30, al-Dustur, IDF Radio, ITV, JT, QY 3/31 in WNC 4/2; CSM, MM, NYT, WP, WT 3/31; CSM, MM 4/1; SA 4/1 in WNC 4/3; WJW 4/2; MENA 4/2 in WNC 4/4; MM 4/3; MEI 4/10; JP 4/11)

In Riyadh, Egyptian FM Musa, Syrian FM Shara`, Saudi Arabian FM Prince Sa'ud al-Faisal open surprise 2-day mtg. to discuss peace process, possibly convening larger Arab summit. (RE 3/30 in WNC 3/31; MM 3/31; MENA, RE 3/31 in WNC 4/2; MM 4/1; al-Ittihad [Abu Dhabi] 4/2 in WNC 4/3)

Iranian FM Kharrazi arrives in Lebanon for 3-day visit, meets with Pres. Hrawi. (IRNA, RL, VOL 3/30 in WNC 3/31; IRNA 3/30, IRNA, RL 3/31 in WNC 4/2; IRNA, RL, VIRI 4/1 in WNC 4/3; al-Ahd [Beirut] 4/3 in WNC 4/13)

Jordan, Israel hold 1-day naval exercise in the Gulf of Aqaba. This is the 1st such joint exercise. (RJ 3/30, JT 3/31 in WNC 4/2)

Jordan receives last 3 F-16s fr. the U.S. (al-Ra'i 3/31 in WNC 4/2; JT 4/4 in WNC 4/7)

Palestinians across the West Bank, Gaza mark Land Day, the anniversary of the 1976 incident in which the IDF opened fire on Palestinians protesting Israeli land confiscations, killing 6. Clashes with IDF are reported in Bethlehem, al-Bireh, Hebron, Jinin, Nablus, Qalqilya, Ramallah; 17 Palestinians are injured. Israeli Arab leaders order general strike. (NYT 3/29; MM 3/30; al-Dustur 3/31 in WNC 4/2; MA 4/6 in WNC 4/7; JP 4/11)

Israeli High Court rejects appeal to prevent demolition of mosque in Jordan Valley, school and home nr. Nablus, home nr. Tulkarm. (LAW 3/31)

50 Christian evangelical groups make unprecedented promise not to carry out missionary activity in Israel, saying that they "rejoice in the presence of the Jewish people in this country of their ancestors" and they will avoid "activities which . . . alienate them from their tradition and community." (WT 3/31)

Saudi Arabia ends its inquiry into the 6/96 Khobar barracks bombing, says bombers cannot be positively identified. U.S., which suspects Iranian involvement and has complained that Saudi Arabia has not been forthcoming with information, says its investigation is still open. (NYT 3/31; WT 4/1)

U.S. special envoy Ross arrives in Jerusalem for talks with PA, Israel aimed at easing tensions, resuming security contacts that would pave way for visit by Secy. of State Albright, resumption of negotiations. (NYT 8/9; Radio France Internationale 8/9 in WNC 8/12; NYT, WT 8/10; JP 8/16)

Arafat calls emergency session of the PC to discuss conditions in the territories since the 7/30 bombings. (NYT, WT 8/10)

Nearly 2 wks. after the 7/30 bombings, Israel is still unable to identify the bombers. While some Israeli news reports claim that unnamed government officials have determined that the bombers were Palestinians fr. Nablus or Surif, other unnamed Israeli, PA officials claim that several indicators (the labels on the bombers clothing had been cut off, their finger prints are not on file, their bombs left no chemical residue, they carried Jordanian dinars) suggest that the bombers came fr. abroad, perhaps fr. Lebanon. Lebanese FM Faris Buwayz says that Israel is propagating these rumors to justify its recent intensification of attacks on Lebanon. (RL 8/9, al-Hayat al-Jadida 8/10 in WNC 8/12; WP 8/11, WT 8/18)

Israel eases the "inner closure" to allow Palestinian movement btwn. Janin, Qalqilya, Tulkarm. Bethlehem, H1 in Hebron, Ramallah are still sealed. Palestinians are permitted to cross the border into Jordan, but the overall ban on Palestinians entering Israel remains in effect. (WT 8/10, 8/13)

PA police uncover a cache of weapons, explosives in Qalqilya, arrest several Palestinians. (NYT 8/10; YA 8/10 in WNC 8/12; NYT 8/11; LAW 8/20)

Israeli Air Force (IAF) stages 2 attacks targeting Hizballah, PFLP-GC training camps in the Biqa` Valley, killing 1 Hizballah mbr. and 1 PFLP-GC mbr., wounding 4 Hizballah mbrs. 1 SLA mbr. is wounded in a separate clash with Hizballah. (RL 8/9 in WNC 8/12; NYT, WT 8/10; MM 8/11)

PC special investigative comm. into PA corruption reads its report to the council; says up to $340 m. (half of the PA budget) has been misspent (including foreign aid donations), half of the EA mbrs. are implicated in misappropriation of funds, others are unqualified; calls on Arafat to dissolve the cabinet, put 3 EA mbrs. (Planning M Shaath, Civil Affairs M Jamil Tarifi, Transportation M Ali al-Qawasmi) on trial. The PC report's conclusions are nonbinding. (CSM, WP, WT 7/30)

Egyptian Pres. Mubarak makes previously unannounced visit to Damascus to discuss the peace process with Pres. Asad, who expresses "no hope" under current conditions. Mubarak then heads to Amman to meet with King Hussein. (RJ, SANA 7/29 in WNC 7/30; RJ 7/29 in WNC 7/31; MM, WT 7/30; MEI 8/8)

In Amman, King Hussein, FM Tarawnah meet with Israeli FM Levy, say that they are optimistic that Netanyahu's decision to block Ras al-Amud development will jump-start the peace process. (RJ 7/29 in WNC 7/30, 7/31; WT 7/30)

EU special envoy Moratinos arrives in Damascus for 2 days of talks with FM Shara` on reviving the Syrian-Israeli talks. (RJ 7/31 in WNC 8/1)

Israeli commandos enter Tulkarm (area A) to capture an Islamic Jihad mbr. Ghassan Mahdawi, who had escaped fr. an Israeli prison in 8/96. (al-Quds 7/29 in WNC 7/31; MM 7/31; CSM, NYT 8/1; JP 8/2)

Nr. Elon Moreh settlement in the West Bank, a Palestinian stabs an IDF soldier in the shoulder, is shot and killed by a 2d soldier. (ITV 7/29 in WNC 7/30, 8/1; JP 8/9)

A poll of young bedouin in the Negev conducted by Bersheeba University shows that 48% believe that Israel does not have a right to exist, 70% prefer to go to jail than serve in the IDF, 70% believe the term "Palestinian" describes them, 45% prefer to live in Israel than in an Arab state or the West. (YA 7/29 in WNC 7/31)

Japan requests extradition of 5 Red Army mbrs. currently standing trial in Lebanon. (RL 7/29 in WNC 7/30) (see 6/9)

Netanyahu deploys 6,000 police throughout Israel, 4,000 in East Jerusalem. After morning prayers at al-Aqsa mosque in Jerusalem, several youths throw stones at IDF troops and police surrounding the site. IDF storms the compound, fires on Palestinians, killing 3, wounding 50. Fewer clashes take place than on 9/26, but fighting, particularly in Rafah and Tulkarm, where IDF helicopters fire on Palestinian crowds, continues. In Balata, Erez, Jenin, Ramallah, PA police, officials form cordons to prevent Palestinians fr. attacking Israeli targets. Israeli Arabs observe a general strike in support of the Palestinians. A total of 52 Palestinians, 14 Israelis have been killed over the past 3 days. The tunnel opened 9/24 is closed for the Jewish holiday. (MM 9/27; IDF Radio, RE, RL 9/27 in WNC 9/30; ITV, TJT 9/27 in WNC 10/1; RE 9/27 in WNC 10/2; NYT, WP, WT 9/28; CSM, MM 9/30; MEI, PR 10/4; JP 10/5)

PM Netanyahu rejects his security chiefs' assessment that clashes are a result of Palestinian frustration, Arafat is unable to control them; calls recent violence a "deliberate incitement" by Arafat; vows to "take every measure available to us to protect our troops." (NYT, WT 9/28)

In New York, Secy. of State Christopher says talks are still underway to secure an Arafat-Netanyahu mtg.; Netanyahu has told special envoy Ross that he believes concessions to the PA at this time would encourage the Palestinians to commit further violence, cause his government to fall because of defections fr. hard-line coalition mbrs.; Netanyahu has refused suggestions that Christopher or Ross make a trip to the region. (NYT, WP 9/28; CSM 9/30)

Despite U.S., Israeli protests, the UN Security Council (UNSC) begins debate of a possible resolution that would criticize Israel severely, demand closing of the 9/24 tunnel. (NYT, WP, WT 9/28; MEI 10/4)

In Tel Aviv, 1,000s of Israelis led by Meretz MKs protest Netanyahu, call for his resignation. (IDF Radio 9/27 in WNC 9/30)

1,000s of Palestinian refugees in s. Lebanon camps continue anti-Israeli demonstrations. Israel continues to reinforce troops in s. Lebanon. (RL 9/27 in WNC 10/1) (see 9/26)

On his way fr. Gaza to the weekly PC session in Ramallah, Arafat's helicopter is forced to hover for 45 mins. before being permitted to land. At the PC, Arafat accuses Israel of "declaring a state of war against the Palestinian people," rejects U.S. appeal for an Abbas-Gold meeting. For 1st time since 1993, he calls for 1-day general strike 8/29, prayer rally in Jerusalem's al-Aqsa Mosque for 8/30. PM Netanyahu warns Arafat against an escalation of rhetoric, violence. (MM 8/28; ITV 8/28 in WNC 8/30; CSM, MM, NYT, WP, WT 8/29; ITV 9/2 in WNC 9/4)

UN Coordinator Larsen leaves Paris for Israel immediately after Arafat speech to attempt to "serious crisis" btwn. PA, Israel. (WP 8/29)

Israel, Turkey sign defense industry deal, stepping up military cooperation. Agmt. includes technology exchanges, is expected to pave way for $650-m. deal for Israel to overhaul 54 Turkish F-4 Phantom jets. Iran expresses concern. (CSM, MM, WP 8/29; VIRI 8/29, TDN 8/30 in WNC 9/3; VIRI 8/29 in WNC 9/4; RJ 9/4 in WNC 9/6 JP 9/7)

In Tulkarm, IDF demolishes 5 Palestinian homes built without permits. (PR 9/6)

Israeli police release Human Rights Watch employee Tarabiyya, arrested 8/19. (IDF Radio 8/28 in WNC 8/30; JP 9/7)

Unidentified gunmen open fire on an Israeli bus traveling on a Israeli-only bypass road to the Jewish settlement of Kiryat Arba in the West Bank, slightly wounding 2. (MM, NYT, WP 8/29; MA 8/30 in WNC 9/5)

Israeli police arrest 3 Palestinians who pitch tents at site of clinic in East Jerusalem which was demolished 8/27. (WT 8/29)

Amal attacks 2 SLA patrols in s. Lebanon, killing 1 soldier, wounding 5. (RL 8/28 in WNC 8/30)

Iran, Turkey connect electricity grids in keeping with agmt. signed by Turkish PM Erbakan during his 8/11-13 visit. (VIRI 8/18 in WNC 9/3)

In n. Iraq, KDP, PUK fighting intensifies, with the PUK gaining the upper hand. Iran calls for talks to end fighting, is generally seen as being the winner of the current crisis. (MM 8/27) (see 8/25)

Israel, PA hold mtg. on Rafah airport. (QY, VOP 8/14 in FBIS 8/15; VOP 8/15 in FBIS 8/16)

Israeli DM Mordechai presents U.S. special envoy Ross with proposal to start parallel negotiations with Syria in Beirut (on s. Lebanon), the U.S. (all other issues). Ross is pessimistic Syria will agree to formula. (IDF Radio 8/15 in FBIS 8/16)

IDF presents to the DMin. for review plans to pave at least 300 mi. of roads in the West Bank, linking Jewish settlements. Palestinian lands will be confiscated to complete the project. (NYT 8/16)

PA military court sentences 5 Palestinians to jail for taking part in Tulkarm demonstration 8/2. 2 receive 12-yr. sentences; 1 gets 5 yrs.; 2 get 2 yrs. 50 others arrested during the protests have been released. (MM 8/15)

Israeli High Court votes 6-1 to keep Bar Ilan Street open during Sabbath until a comm. is formed to review the dispute, present findings. (NYT 8/16; HA 8/19 in IL 8/19; WJW 8/22; JP 8/24) (see 7/20)

ILMG meets in Naqura at Israel's request, following the death of a Lebanese civilian during a clash with Hizballah in s. Lebanon. (RL 8/15 in FBIS 8/15; QY 8/15 in FBIS 8/16; JP 8/17, 8/24)

Pollard's wife ends hunger strike after PM Netanyahu promises to lobby U.S. for Pollard's release. (WT 8/16; JP 8/24) (see 7/28)

In Washington, France, Israel, Lebanon, Syria, the U.S. resume talks on the function of the Israeli-Lebanese cease-fire monitoring group; agree U.S., France will be group's cochairs. (MM 5/20; MM, WT 5/21) (see 5/19)

Cmdr. of the Turkey's navy, Adm. Guven Erkaya, arrives in Israel for an official visit. (MM 5/20, 5/21)

Arafat adviser Faisal Husseini holds talks with Moroccan businessmen. (PR 5/31)

IDF arrests 13 Palestinians nr. Nablus, Tulkarm, Janin in connection with attacks on Israelis. (QY 5/20 in FBIS 5/21)

Turkish PM Mesut Yilmaz accuses Syria of backing the Kurdish Worker's Party. Syrian denounces the accusation. (SARR 5/20, 5/21 in FBIS 5/21; JP 6/1)

UN signs deal with Iraq, allowing Iraq to sell $2 b. of oil over 6 mos.; use money to buy food, medicine. (CSM, MM 5/22; JP 5/22 in FBIS 5/22; JP 6/1)

In Beirut, fmr. Lebanese Forces militia leader Samir Ja`ja` is convicted of murdering Phalange faction rival Ilyas al-Zayik in 1992, is given death sentence commuted to life in prison. (NYT 5/21) (see 6/24/95)

10,000 Palestinians greet Arafat as arrives for his 1st visit to Ramallah since the IDF pulled out. Arafat then heads to Tulkarm, Qalqilya to celebrate the IDF's withdrawal there. (NYT, WP, WT 12/31; JP 1/6)

Hamas mbrs. Isma'il Haniyya, Khalid al-Hindi, Sa'id al-Namruti say the will run for seats on the Palestinian Council as independents. (JMCC 12/30 in FBIS 1/2)

In Madrid, PA, Spain sign joint cooperation agmt. (PWR 1/9)

PSF releases al-Quds editor `Alami (arrested 12/27). (QY 12/31 in FBIS 1/2; NYT, WP 1/1; FT 1/3; CSM, WJW 1/4; JP 1/6)

After a Lebanese civilian is killed, 4 others wounded by IDF shelling, Hizballah fires rockets into n. Israel, wounds 2 IDF soldiers in clash in s. Lebanon. Israel blames Syria. (ITV, QY 12/30, QY 12/31, ITV 1/1 in FBIS 1/2; NYT, WT 12/31; MM 1/2; JP 1/6)

Reversing his 7/16 decision, PM Rabin promises Rachel's tomb will remain under full Israeli control, Jews will have access to Machapela Cave (Hebron), Joseph's tomb (Nablus), comm. of MKs fr. religious parties will be set up to advise Israeli negotiators on holy sites in West Bank. (MM 7/25; JP 7/25 in FBIS 7/25; MA, QY 7/26 in FBIS 7/26; JP 8/5)

U.S. Amb. to Israel Indyk holds prescheduled mtg. with MKs Arye Deri, David Levi, Moshe Qatzav, Nisim Zvili, Gedalya Gal. (MM 7/26; HA 7/28 in FBIS 7/30)

At Tulkarm checkpoint, Palestinian workers upset by delays in entering Israel despite their permits begin riot. IDF shoots, wounds 2. (PR 8/4)

PA police arrest 20 Hamas mbrs. in connection with 7/24 attack. (AFP 7/25 in FBIS 7/26)

Knesset approves establishment of 1-man breakaway faction fr. Moledet named Right of Israel. Party head MK Sha'ul Gutman will keep his seat, likely align with Kach. (JP 7/25 in FBIS 7/26) (see 7/19)

U.S. immigration (INS) officials detain, strip search Hamas mbr. Abu Marzuq, his wife, and 6 children on entry to the U.S. at Kennedy airport. While out of the country, Abu Marzuq, a permanent U.S. resident who has lived in Virginia for 14 yrs., was placed on the INS terrorism watch list on suspicion of being a Hamas decision maker, fund-raiser for Hamas. He may either be tried in the U.S., extradited to Israel (if requested), or deported to the UAE (his point of departure for the U.S.). (WP 7/27; NYT, WT 7/28; MEI 8/4) (see 5/31)

In s. Lebanon, 1 SLA mbr. killed, 3 wounded when Hizballah mbrs. detonate roadside bomb.

Israeli Environment M Yossi Sarid meets with Arafat, Planning M Shaath in Gaza; discusses redeployment, elections, transfer of powers, release of prisoners; calls on Arafat to settle for partial troop pullback in West Bank to be followed by Palestinian elections in the fall. Arafat rejects offer. (MM 6/15; QY, RE, VOP 6/15 in FBIS 6/16; CSM, WT 6/16; MEI 6/23)

PA Transportation M `Abd al-`Aziz al-Hajj Ahmad announces draft transportation agmt. with Jordan, opening of commerce crossing point at King Hussein Bridge. (al-Dustur 6/15 in FBIS 6/16; JTV 6/15 in FBIS 6/19; PR 6/18)

IDF seizes 30 dunums of land belonging to al-Wadiri Agricultural College nr. Tulkarm, begins clearing area to build joint liaison office in advance of redeployment. (QY 6/15 in FBIS 6/16)

After allegedly finding "inciting" Hamas material during raid, IDF closes Aroura mosque nr. Ramallah for 5 mos. (PR 6/25) (see 5/17)

In Beirut, U.S. Asst. Secy. of State Pelletreau says U.S. will begin easing travel ban on Lebanon by allowing airlines to ticket non-Americans for travel btwn. the 2 countries; urges Lebanon to sign international antiterrorism agmt. Hizballah balks, saying U.S. is in no position to call others "terrorists." (MM 6/15)

Hizballah fires 12 rockets into n. Israel, killing 1, wounding 1. IAF strikes targets north of self-declared security zone, wounding 4. (MM 6/15; IDF Radio, QY 6/15, IDF Radio, MA, QY 6/16 in FBIS 6/16; MM 6/16; MEI 7/21)

FM Peres, Arafat meet to discuss PA plan for elections; agree to continue talks on 2 levels: btwn. Arafat and Rabin on troop withdrawal, transfer of power, security and btwn. Cairo teams to discuss implementation of 2d stage of DOP, elections, Palestinian detainees, borders, economy. (MM 12/21; ITV, QY, VOP 12/21, VOP 12/22 in FBIS 12/22; WT 12/22)

PM Rabin's office announces it will prevent an economic comm. workshop planned by PECDAR fr. being held in East Jerusalem, says PA is trying to create facts. (QY 12/21 in FBIS 12/21; PR 12/24)

PA begins issuing license plates for Palestinian vehicles. Cars with new plates are not yet allowed to cross into Israel, Egypt, Jordan. (PR 12/24)

Jordanian, Israeli tour operators hold conference in Amman, discuss developing tour packages in light of peace treaty. (JT 12/22 in FBIS 12/22)

Israeli Police M Moshe Shahal accuses PSF under direction of Col. Rajub of operating, conducting investigations secretly in Jerusalem. (Ma'ariv 12/21 in FBIS 12/22)

Car bomb explodes in Beirut, killing 3 (incl. 1 high-ranking mbr. of Hizballah), wounding 11. Hizballah, Lebanese PM Hariri blame Israel. (RL 12/21 in FBIS 12/22; NYT, WP, WT 12/22; RL 12/22 in FBIS 12/23; MEI 1/6)

Palestinian is shot dead in Tulkarm, West Bank. Kach takes responsibility. (IDF Radio 12/21 in FBIS 12/22)

Grand Mufti of Saudi Arabia Shaykh `Abd al-`Aziz Bin Baz issues fatwa saying it is permissible for Muslims to make permanent peace with Israel as long as it serves Islam, hence it would be sinful for anyone to oppose Saudi Arabia's steps toward normalized relations with Israel. (Al-Sha`b 12/25 in FBIS 1/9; NYT 1/31; MM 2/14)

Jordanian security court sentences 11 Islamists to death for plotting to destabilize the government through a series of bombings, assassinate leading officials. (RJ 12/21, JT 12/22 in FBIS 12/22; NYT 11/22)

Arafat telephones King Hussein, briefs him on talks with PM Rabin 11/8, both agree to continue contacts on common issues. (MENA 11/9 in FBIS 11/10)

PNA Econ. M Qurai`, Israeli Finance M Shohat meet in Jerusalem to discuss implementation of economic agmt. signed in Paris 4/93. (QY, VOP 11/9 in FBIS 11/14)

Reports note frequent mtgs. btwn. Syrian, Israeli ambs. in Washington, with U.S. moderation. (ITV 11/9 in FBIS 11/10; MM 11/17)

Top Israeli police official admits Palestinians are setting up a police force in occupied West Bank to deal with traffic, intra-Palestinian disputes, says government will not oppose the units unless they interfere with Israeli police duties. (JP 11/9 in FBIS 11/9)

Morocco opens liaison office in Gaza. (AFP 11/9 in FBIS 11/10)

Knesset passes bill making anyone conducting unauthorized political activity in Jerusalem liable to 15 yrs. in jail. Bill targets PNA diplomatic activity at Orient House. (MM 11/10; WJW 11/17; JP 11/19)

Lebanese Judiciary reopens 1983 U.S. Marine barracks bombing case. Move seen as government attempt to show U.S. it is serious about security, nudge talks with Israel, gain leverage against Hizballah. (RL 11/9 in FBIS 11/9; MM 11/16)

Saudi FM Prince Sa'ud al-Faysal arrives in Damascus to deliver letter fr. King Fahd to Pres. al-Asad, confers with al-Asad regarding peace talks. (SARR 11/9 in FBIS 11/10)

IDF searching for wanted men clash with Palestinians in Tulkarm. Palestinians suffer 1 wounded, call general strike. (QY 11/9 in FBIS 11/10)

Israel rejects PNA election proposal, says a 100-mbr. legislative council is too large, Israel needs more time to see how PNA runs depts. already transferred. (IDF Radio 8/31 in FBIS 8/31; QY 9/4 in FBIS 9/6; WP 9/16) (see 8/20)

Egyptian FM `Amr Musa arrives in Israel for talks with FM Peres, relays Arafat's concerns about delays at Erez checkpoint, work permits, Palestinian prisoners, economic and security issues. (MM 8/30; HA 8/31 in FBIS 9/1)

Col. 'Adil Salih, head of Arafat's presidential guard, resigns over "power struggle" btwn. various PNA security branches over who will patrol Tulkarm area. Col. Jibril Rajub, head of PSF in West Bank, accuses Salih of enlisting collaborators in his forces, cooperating with Jordanian intelligence. (QY 8/31 in FBIS 8/31; MM 9/1; JP 9/10)

Lebanese PM Hariri says his cabinet rejected the principle of resettlement of Palestinians in Lebanon. A committee under Dep. PM Michel al-Murr will be formed to study how to improve Palestinians conditions. (RL 8/30 in FBIS 8/31; MM 8/30, 8/31)

Jordan cancels $30 m. trade deal with Israel under pressure fr. PNA (see 8/16, 8/17); agrees to give Palestinian Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) 2 helicopters, train CAA workers in maintenance, surveillance. (HA 8/30 in FBIS 9/1; Al-Dustur 8/31 in FBIS 9/9)

Results of Syrian national elections held 8/24-25 released. Pres. Hafiz al-Asad's Ba'ath party gains 61% majority. (MM 8/30)

3rd Kach mbr. released after serving 6-mo. administrative detention following Hebron massacre. (IDF Radio 8/30 in FBIS 9/2) (see 8/27)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Land Day, commemorating deaths of 6 Israeli Arabs in 1976 demonstrations against land confiscation, observed throughout Palestinian areas of Israel and in o.t. Israel's 800,000 Palestinian citizens observe general strike; observances dedicated to victims of Hebron massacre, 6 Fateh Hawks killed 3/28. Curfew imposed on Nablus, Tulkarm, Ramallah, Hebron, and 9 r.c.s. including Jabaliya. Largest demonstration held in Rahat in the Negev, where 22-yr.-old Bedouin killed by police 2/27. (MM 3/30, 3/31; NYT 3/31)

Jordan's King Hussein receives PLO envoy Hakam Bal'awi, bearing message fr. PLO Chmn. Arafat on coordinating policy on Jerusalem. (MM 3/31)

Jordanian delegate to multilateral talks on water sharing Munther Haddadin rejects Israeli proposals for "new Jordan River," saying "It is purely a unilateral project proposed by a group of academics financed by a German company. Jordan has nothing to do with it." (MM 3/31)(see 3/28)

IAF planes and IDF helicopters attack Hizballah targets in Iqlim al-Tuffah, Lebanon. (MM 3/30)

IDF kills 3 Palestinians-1 each in Jerusalem, Tulkarm, and Gaza Strip-protesting Hebron massacre. 50 Palestinians wounded. Demonstrations throughout o.t. and in Israeli-Arab towns of Jaffa, Ramla, and Nazareth and in Galilee villages. 40 Israeli Arabs arrested in Nazareth, 10 in Ramla. Closure imposed on West Bank Palestinians and total curfew on Hebron; IDF guards posted at entrance to Qiryat Arba settlement. Qiryat Arba settlers travel under IDF escort. (Qol Yisra'el 2/26 in FBIS 2/28; NYT, WP, WT 2/27; WP 2/28)

PLO Chmn. Arafat demands international protection for Palestinians in o.t. Israel-PLO talks in Cairo, Taba postponed pending decision of PLO leaders. Arafat recalls PLO negotiators fr. Cairo, Paris, and Washington for consultations, emergency mtg. of PLO Exec. Comm. Israeli FM Peres accepts Pres. Clinton's invitation to shift talks to Washington, but rejects international presence in o.t. (MENA 2/26, 2/27 in FBIS 2/28; NYT, WP, WT 2/27)

UNSC debates Hebron massacre for 5 hours, takes no action. PLO, Organization of the Islamic Conference request international protection for Palestinians. U.S. delegation opposes monitors. (NYT, WP 2/27; NYT 2/28)

Demonstrations against Hebron massacre in Palestinian r.c.s throughout Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria. King Hussein declares 3 days of mourning. (NYT 2/27)

Police arrest 115 peace activists near Janin trying to march from Israel into W. Bank, including a member of Belgian parliament. Marchers were participating in 6-day march by 400 Israeli and foreign activists calling for end to Israeli occupation in o.t. (WP, MM 6/8)

Four FMs meeting in Amman conclude their talks, issue final communique calling for extraordinary session of Arab League Council to discuss Lebanese situation. (Jordan TV, AFP 6/7 in FBIS 6/8)

Fateh and Hamas proclaim "pact of honor"; leaflet issued in o.t. seeks to end organizational feuding and further dialogue between Islamic Resistance Movement and PLO. (Jordan TV 6/7 in FBIS 6/8; MM 6/8)

Mukhtar of Gaza's Dayr al-Balah refugee camp, Shafiq al-Hasi, is killed by masked men in local market. (Qol Yisra'el 6/7 in FBIS 6/8)

Cairo-Amman Bank opens branch in Tulkarm. (Al-Sha'b 6/7 in FBIS 6/10

Hamas activists disrupt meeting in Tulkarm called to discuss peace and featuring Faisal Husseini. Militants throw rocks, bottles at Husseini and members of the audience. Fight ensues between supporters of Hamas, PLO afterwards. Hamas had earlier called for a strike in Tulkarm to stop Husseini, who decided to speak anyway. (MM 1/2)

SLA imposes curfew on Rashaf, S. Lebanon, following accusations that villagers participated in 12/29 attack which killed SLA soldier. UNIFIL later demands that SLA end the siege. Both SLA, UNIFIL maintain presence in village. (MM 1/14)

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Ha'Aretz reports team of Israeli foreign ministry experts has begun formulating detailed plan for elections in O.T. in anticipation of possible Israeli-Palestinian negotiations. Moshe Arens tells Yedi'ot Aharonot "the elections in the territories will be conducted because we will conduct them with or withouthe U.S. initiative" [FBIS 1/9].

The Jerusalem Post names N. David Gross managing editor and Matt Nesvisky magazine editor to begin replacing about 30 senior editors and reporters who resigned in dispute with publisher [NYT 1/ 10; MET 1/23].

Arab World: PFLP-GC leader Ahmed jabril denies that his organization was involved in 1988 bombing of Pan Am flight 103 [NYT 1/10].

Yasir Arafat arrives in Cairo, meets with F.M. Abd al-Majid [FBIS 1/10].

Other Countries: U.S. sharply cuts its funding to UN Food and Agriculture Agency (FAO) in response to FAO's 11/ 29 resolution. U.S. will pay only $18 million of its $61.4 million obligation, just enough to keep its voting status [NYT 1/ 10].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: 2 Palestinians from Nablus are wounded by IDF gunfire; 3 others in Tulkarm are wounded in separate incident [FBIS 1/10].

Michael Ben Horin, leader of State of Judea, an extreme right-wing Jewish settlers group, is arrested on charges of arson [MET 1/23].

Arab World: Israeli forces shell Lebanese villages of Lusi, al-Sultan Y'aqub, and Kamid al-Lawz, 2 people are wounded [FBIS 1/9, 1/10].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: About 200 women stage procession in Nablus to mark anniversary of Algiers declaration of Palestinian state. They disperse when IDF fires tear gas [FBIS 11/29].

Arab World: Lebanese President Elias Hrawi declares cabinet of Christian leader Gen Michel Aoun as dissolved and names a new coalition government [WP 11/26].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/lIsrael: Army declares Ramallah and al-Bireh closed military zones. Army converts Ramallah school into military post [FJ 12/4].

IDF troops sweep Tulkarm area, arrest 72 Palestinians, mostly youths. 64 are wanted by security forces, 8 are detained for fleeing soldiers [FBIS 11/29; JP 12/2].

3 Palestinians from Nablus are wounded in clashes with soldiers; one 17- year-old is shot in eye by plastic bullet [FBIS 11/29].

Arab World: Israeli Air Force shells PFLPGC positions in Shtaura, Lebanon [NYT 11/26].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/lIsrael: In an article in Ma'ariv, Israeli Justice Minister Dan Meridor says since the outbreak of the intifada 600 Palestinians have been killed, 350 houses demolished, over 10,000 Palestinians wounded, over 40,000 placed under detention, and 60 deported [FBIS 11/17].

Other Countries: PLO officials meet with Israeli Knesset members in Milan, Italy to discuss Israeli-Palestinian peace opportunities [FJ 11/27].

According to Ma'ariv, U.S. officials claim Israel Aircraft Industries was involved in attempts to smuggle U.S. missile navigation equipment to South Africa in violation of U.S. law [FBIS 11/20].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/lIsrael: IDF declares Ramallah and al-Bireh closed military zones [FJ 11/27].

Incidents in the Nur Shams and Tulkarm camps leave 2 Palestinians wounded from IDF gunfire. At least 8 others wounded in O.T. [FBIS 11/20].

Arab World: Citing PLO sources, Associated Press reports that about 200 dissident members of Abu Nidal organization were recently killed in liquidation campaign in Libya. 300 more fled to Algeria, Tunisia, and Lebanon [FBIS 11/17]. 

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/lsrael: CSM reports that by mid-August 91 alleged collaborators had been killed by fellow Palestinians since the intifada began [CSM 8/21].

Arab World: Palestine National Fund (PNF) offices in Amman are reopened [FBIS 8/22].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: At least 3 Palestinians are killed, 6 wounded in clashes throughout O.T. General strike in W. Bank. IDF soldier in Tulkarm injured by a rock. Molotov cocktail hurled at a patrol in Jabaliyyah camp, no injuries. Police use rubber bullets and tear gas to disperse stone-throwing youths in E. Jerusalem. Curfew imposed on al-Ram and Dahiyat al-Barid, north of Jerusalem, following clashes between youths and IDF [FBIS 8/22].

Arab World: UNIFIL places forces on alert because of heavy Israeli and SLA military activity in S. Lebanon [FBIS 8/21].

Social/Economic/Political

Arab World: Arafat meets with King Hasan II of Morocco [MET 8/8]. Arafat states that Jamil Tarifi's meetings with Shamir have approval of Palestinian leadership [FBIS 7/28].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: In Tulkarm Israeli soldiers shoot, kill 21-year-old Palestinian [NYT 7/28, FJ 7/31]. In Gaza 79-year-old Palestinian is hit and killed by Israeli vehicle [FJ 7/31]. In Khan Yunis Palestinian accused of collaboration is killed [NYT 7/28]. At least 15 Palestinians are injured in the Gaza Strip [FJ 7/31].

Arab World: SLA ambushes, kills 5 Palestinian guerrillas east of Sidon [FBIS 7/31, MET 8/8]. SLA expells 23 Lebanese policemen from south Lebanon's Israeliimposed "security zone" for refusing to cooperate with SLA, IDF [MET 8/8].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: In Gaza 8 refugee camps, Gaza City, Bayt Hanun are placed under curfew [WP 3/23].

Arab World: PLO rejects U.S. appeal to curb violence in O.T. [WP 3/23].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: In Tulkarm camp Israeli soldiers shoot, kill 11-year-old Palestinian. In W. Bank doctors treat 4 Palestinians wounded by Israeli troops. In the Gaza Strip 28 Palestinians are injured during demonstrations [WP 3/23].

Arab World: Lebanese fighters attack SLA position in S. Lebanon; 2 attackers are killed, 1 SLA soldier is seriously injured [FBIS 3/24].