The Palestine Chronology

In the West Bank, Israeli forces seized agricultural tools near Bethlehem. Protesters in Ramallah sealed off the offices of the International Committee of the Red Cross in Ramallah, demanding action on behalf of a Palestinian prisoner said to be in critical condition after torture during his interrogation on 9/25. 2 Palestinians were arrested at a flying checkpoint between Bethlehem and Hebron. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces demolished 4 Palestinian-owned sheep barns in Jabal Mukabir. Off the coast of Gaza, Israeli naval forces opened fire on Palestinian fishermen 3 nautical miles from Bayt Lahiya; no injuries were reported. Israeli forces also opened fire on agricultural lands northeast of Khan Yunis; no injuries were reported. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 10/2; PCHR 10/3)

In Israel, the pre-indictment hearings in the 3 corruption cases against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu began. (AJ 10/2)

In Aachen, Germany, a Lebanese artist was denied a prize because the mayor of the city deemed that the artist supported BDS and had refused to distance himself from the movement. (WAFA 10/3; WAFA 10/4)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces arrested 8 Palestinians, including 7 during late-night raids in and around Qalqilya, Ramallah, Halhul, and Salfit, and 1 at a flying checkpoint in Hebron; among the arrested at a late-night raid in Ramallah was 1 Palestinian instructor from Birzeit University in Ramallah. Israeli forces also conducted house raids in Zabbuba near Jenin; no arrests were reported. Israeli settlers threw stones at Palestinian-owned vehicles travelling on a road northeast of Ramallah, causing damage. In East Jerusalem, 1 Palestinian was arrested during a late-night raid in Issawiyya. 1 Palestinian demolished his store in Silwan after receiving a demolition order by Israeli authorities. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 9/1; PCHR 9/5)

After more than 340 Palestinians had been arrested in Issawiyya in East Jerusalem during the summer, it was reported that the Israeli police, the Jerusalem Municipality, and residents of Issawiyya had come to an agreement on limiting Israeli operations in Issawiyya. The agreement includes that residents of Issawiyya cancel a school strike on 9/2, the 1st day of the school year. (HA 9/1)

According to the Palestinian Energy Authority, Qatar will be cutting the amount of fuel it funds for Gaza by 50 percent, causing the hours of electricity available in Gaza to drop from 8 hours per day to 5 or 6. (HA 9/1)

At a visit to the Israeli settlement of Elkana, Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that that he aspires to apply Israeli sovereignty to all Jewish settlements in the West Bank. Netanyahu’s announcement comes 2 weeks before the Israeli general election. (AJ, HA, WAFA, WAFA 9/1)

The al-Kasom Regional Council in the Negev, which presides over a large Bedouin community, announced that 17,000 students would not start the school year as planned on 9/2 as the Israeli education ministry had not given it enough money to begin the school year as planned. (HA 9/1)

Israeli forces and Hezbollah operatives exchanged missiles near the border of Israel and Lebanon. According to Hezbollah, it fired anti-tank missiles at Israeli military vehicles. The Israeli military and Prime Minister Netanyahu announced that it had hit the Hezbollah cell that fired the anti-tank missiles with “100 shells, aerial fire and various measures.” (HA 9/1; AJ, AJ, HA 9/2; HA 9/4)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces claimed to have found an explosive device near Nablus. Israeli forces also demolished a Palestinian-owned house and restaurant in Bayt Jala near Bethlehem. 25 Palestinians were arrested by Israeli forces during late-night raids in and around Ramallah, Abu Dis, Nablus, Jenin, and Salfit. In Gaza, 3 rockets were launched toward Israel, causing no damage. Later, Israel struck targets east of Bayt Lahiya allegedly belonging to Hamas; damage was reported but no injuries. Hamas later denied responsibility for the rockets launched. Off the coast of Gaza, Israeli forces opened fired on Palestinian fishermen 3 nautical miles from the shore of Bayt Lahiya; no injuries were reported. (AJ, HA, HA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 8/26; PCHR 8/29; WAFA 9/3)

Israel’s prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced via Twitter that 300 new settlement units in the Dolev settlement would be sent for approval to the Planning Committee. Prime Minister Netanyahu also announced that Israel was cutting allowed oil imports to Gaza by 50% after rockets were fired at Israel. (HA, Twitter, WAFA 8/26)

It was reported by the Lebanese state-run media outlet National News Agency that Israel attacked a base for the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine – General Command with 3 missiles in Qusaya in Northern Lebanon, causing damage to structures but no injuries. Lebanon’s president Michel Aoun also said of the Israeli strike against Hezbollah in Beirut on 8/25 that it was a declaration of war on Lebanon. (AJ, BBC, REU, WAFA 8/26; HA 8/27)

Iraqi president Barham Salih and prime minister Adel Abdul-Mahdi condemned Israel’s attack on Iraqi groups on 8/25, calling it an “attack on Iraqi sovereignty.” The U.S. Department of Defense issued a statement opposing Israel’s attacks in Iraq, saying that the U.S. supports Iraqi sovereignty and opposes “external actors” operating in Iraq. (HA 8/26; HA 8/27)

In the West Bank, several Palestinians were arrested by Israeli forces near Khillet al-Dabe village while attempting to plant olive trees. On a road near Ramallah, around 15 Israeli settlers threw stones at Palestinian vehicles passing by the settlers. Damage was reported, but no injuries. Settlers also razed Palestinian farmland in Burin in the West Bank. In East Jerusalem, Israeli police detained an employee of the Jerusalem Islamic Waqf for opening the doors to Bab al-Rahma. A similar incident unfolded on 4/1. In Gaza, Israeli forces made incursions to level land near Khan Yunis. Israeli naval forces attacked Palestinian fishermen 3 nautical miles from the coast of Gaza City by firing live ammunition at them and spraying with the non-lethal weapon Skunk. A Palestinian teen shot by Israeli forces by the Gaza fence on 4/3 succumbed to his injuries at an Israeli hospital. In Israel, an incendiary balloon was found in a cemetery in the Israeli city Kiryat Gat. Elsewhere in Israel, the Bedouin village of al-Araqib was demolished for the 142d time. Israeli prison forces raided section 1 of the Negev prison and transferred prisoners to other sections of the prison. (HA, MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 4/4)

Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in an interview with Israeli radio that “All the options are still on the table, including entering Gaza and occupying it, out of consideration of what is best for Israel.” He also said in the interview that he had explored the option of having another country take charge of Gaza, but no one had volunteered. (JP 4/4; MNA 4/5)

The Japanese embassy in Lebanon announced that Japan would contribute an additional $6 million for UNRWA projects in Lebanon. (MNA, WAFA 4/5)

Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops open fire on Palestinian farmlands near Rafah and Khan Yunis, causing no damage. They also arrest 2 Palestinians attempting to cross into Israel near Jabaliya refugee camp. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Jabaliya refugee camp, causing no damage or injuries (1 fisherman is arrested and his boat is confiscated). In the West Bank, Israeli settlers raze a swath of Palestinian land to set up an illegal settlement outpost near Nablus. Also near Nablus, settlers also uproot 33 olive trees from a Palestinian grove and throw stones at Palestinian vehicles, causing no reported damage or injuries. Israeli forces demolish a Palestinian barn and uproot a number of nearby trees outside al-‘Arub refugee camp near Hebron. They also deliver stop-work orders to a Palestinian home under construction near Hebron. IDF troops arrest 10 Palestinians during late-night raids in and around Qalqilya, Ramallah, Salfit, Jenin, and Nablus; and patrol near Nablus and Hebron. In East Jerusalem, dozens of right-wing Jewish activists tour Haram al-Sharif in the morning. Israeli forces arrest 1 Palestinian during raids in the Old City. (MNA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 3/10; MNA, MNA, WAFA 3/11; PCHR 3/14)

PA president Mahmoud Abbas appoints senior Fatah official Mohammed Shtayyeh prime minister, replacing outgoing prime minister Rami Hamdallah. Abbas calls on Shtayyeh to form a new government that can work toward reuniting Gaza and the West Bank and prepare for a new round of elections. Meanwhile, PA finance minister Shukri Bishara announces that the PA will only be paying 50% of its civil servants’ salaries for 2/2019 due to budget constraints stemming from Israel’s decision to withhold a fraction of the tax revenues transferred monthly to the PA. (AP, HA, MNA, REU, TOI, WAFA, WAFA, YA 3/10; MNA 3/11)

A Palestinian minor succumbs to injuries sustained when IDF troops violently dispersed Palestinian demonstrations along Gaza’s border fence on 2/22. This brings the death toll stemming from the Great March of Return to 208. (MNA, TOI, WAFA 3/11; EI 3/13)

Hours after the Israeli Air Force bombed several Hamas sites across Gaza, Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu says that Hamas should not expect Israel to abstain from a full-scale assault on Gaza because there is an Israeli election coming up on 4/9. “I suggest to Hamas—don’t count on it,” he adds. “We will do everything necessary to restore security and quiet to the area adjacent to the Gaza Strip and to the south in general.” (TOI 3/10)

In response to an Israeli television personality saying that Israel is a country for all its citizens, Israeli prime minister Netanyahu says that Israel is a state for Jews alone. “Israel is not a state of all its citizens. According to the Nation-State Law that we passed, Israel is the nation-state of the Jewish People—and them alone.” (HA 3/11)

Japan announces a $7 million contribution to UNRWA to support Palestinian refugees in Lebanon and Syria. (MNA, WAFA 3/10)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers puncture the tires of several Palestinian vehicles and leave racist graffiti on nearby walls in Iskaka village near Salfit. Approximately 30 armed settlers enter Urif village near Nablus in the evening. They damage equipment at an infrastructure construction site and spark clashes between their IDF escort and Palestinians in the area; 3 Palestinians are injured. IDF troops also violently disperse Palestinian schoolchildren throwing stones in Hebron; and patrol near Qalqilya, Tulkarm, and Hebron. In East Jerusalem, several senior Islamic Waqf officials enter Haram al-Sharif via al-Rahma Gate and pray at the sanctuary. Israeli forces demolish a Palestinian home in al-Walaja. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Gaza City and al-Bureij refugee camp, causing no damage or injuries. Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops open fire on Palestinian homes, farmers, and shepherds near Rafah, Khan Yunis, and Dayr al-Balah, causing no damage or injuries. In the evening, IDF troops violently disperse Palestinians gathering to continue the Great March of Return near Rafah; 6 Palestinians are injured. (MNA, MNA, WAFA 2/14; MNA, MNA 2/15; PCHR 2/21)

On the 2d day of a Middle East security conference in Warsaw, U.S. president Donald Trump’s son-in-law and senior advisor Jared Kushner says that the Trump administration’s long-awaited plan for Palestinian-Israeli peace will require compromises of both sides. “We hear Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and Israel and we understand that there is a chance,” he adds. “They do a better job than me to explain why there is a reason to be optimistic.” Kushner also says that the Trump administration’s plan is not based on the Arab Peace Initiative. “I think it was a great initiative, in 2002 when it was done, but it hasn’t produced peace.” After meeting with Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu, U.S. secretary of state Mike Pompeo says that “stability in the Middle East” won’t be achieved “without confronting Iran.” Netanyahu’s office later leaks a video recorded during a closed session in Warsaw on 2/13 depicting several Arab foreign ministers downplaying the Palestinian-Israeli conflict in relation to Iran in terms of issues threatening the security of the Middle East. Bahrain’s Foreign Minister Khalid bin Ahmed Al Khalifa is depicted saying that “toxic” money from Iran has obstructed past efforts to resolve the Palestinian-Israeli conflict. (AP, EI, HA, HA, HA, JP, JP, JP, JP, TOI, TOI, YA, YA 2/14)

Israeli forces arrest a Lebanese minor after he crosses the Israel-Lebanon border armed with a knife. (HA, MNA 2/14)

Hundreds of Palestinians gather along Gaza’s border to continue the Great March of Return near Gaza City. Amid the protests, armed Palestinians shoot and injure an Israeli soldier. Israeli artillery and air forces then strike a number of Hamas sites near al-Bureij refugee camp, Rafah, and Jabaliya refugee camp, killing 1 Palestinian and injuring at least 4 others. The incident comes hours after a similar exchange near Jabaliya, during which armed Palestinians fired on IDF positions along the border fence and Israeli tanks shelled and destroyed a Hamas post in the area. No injuries are reported in that earlier incident. Meanwhile, IDF troops stationed along the border fence open fire on Palestinian farmers working near Gaza City and Rafah, causing no damage. In 2 separate incidents off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Bayt Lahiya, causing no damage or injuries. In the West Bank, IDF troops conduct raids in al-Khadir village near Bethlehem, sparking clashes with stone-throwing residents; there are no reported injuries. The IDF then temporarily seals off all the entrances to the village. IDF troops shoot and injure 3 Palestinians during similar clashes in Tell and Burin near Nablus; arrest a Palestinian minor in central Hebron when he is found to be in possession of a knife; arrest 5 more Palestinians during late-night raids in and around Hebron, Nablus, and Bethlehem; and patrol near Hebron and Nablus. Israeli forces uproot 60 olive trees in a Palestinian grove near Jerusalem and 30 more in a Palestinian grove outside Bayt Umar near Hebron. (HA, HA, JP, JP, MNA, MNA, MNA, TOI, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, YA 1/22; EI, MNA, MNA 1/23; PCHR 1/24)

Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu suspends the planned transfer of $15 million in Qatari funds to Gaza in response to the shooting of an Israeli soldier along Gaza’s border earlier today (see above). The transfer was originally set to go forward last week, but it was temporarily postponed in response to another incident of violence along the border fence. Meanwhile, Haaretz reports that Islamic Jihad in Palestine fighters were responsible for both shooting attacks and that they were motivated, in part, by an ongoing disagreement with Hamas. Later, a Hamas official says that Netanyahu’s order to suspend the transfer constitutes a “crime” that could spark an “explosion” of violence. (TOI 1/22; HA, JP, MNA 1/23)

One day after reports of violent protests at Ofer Prison, the Israeli press reports that a number of Palestinian prisoners at Ofer are refusing meals in protest of conditions in the prison. Later in the day, Israeli prison guards raid a number of cells in Ofer, sparking a 2d day of violence; more than 100 Palestinians are injured. (EI, MNA, TOI 1/22)

UN special coordinator Nickolay Mladenov reports that UNIFIL peacekeepers have not been given access to any of the tunnels the IDF uncovered in the context of its Operation Northern Shield in late-12/2018 and earlier this month. He does not say whether or not the Lebanese government or Hezbollah is responsible for the delay. (JP 1/22; AP, HA 1/23)

The Italian government pledges €1.5 million (approximately $1.7 million) to UNRWA to support Palestinian refugees in Lebanon.  (MNA 1/22)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces demolish a Palestinian greenhouse and another agricultural structure in Bayt Iksa near Jerusalem. IDF troops arrest a Palestinian who opens fire on an IDF post outside the nearby Ma’ale Adumim settlement; arrest 2 Palestinians during raids near Bethlehem and Hebron; and patrol near Bethlehem, Hebron, and Qalqilya. Israeli settlers cut down approximately 1,000 tree saplings from a Palestinian nature reserve outside Burqa village near Nablus. Settlers also uproot a number of olive trees in the courtyard of al-Ibrahimi Mosque in Hebron. Separately, unidentified assailants open fire on a Palestinian police station in al-Ram near Jerusalem, sparking a firefight between PA police and the armed assailants; 1 Palestinian is killed (it’s unclear if he was a bystander or one of the assailants). Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops open fire on Palestinian farmers and shepherds working near Bayt Hanun, causing no injuries. An Israeli drone bombs a Hamas post near Khan Yunis, causing extensive damage. (MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, TOI, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 1/13; PCHR 1/17)

A Palestinian succumbs to injuries sustained when IDF troops violently dispersed Palestinian protesters gathering along Gaza’s border several weeks ago. This brings the death toll stemming from the Great March of Return to 197. (WAFA 1/13; PCHR 1/17)

The IDF announces the conclusion of Operation Northern Shield, the operation formally launched on 12/4 to discover and demolish cross-border tunnels allegedly built by Hezbollah from southern Lebanon to northern Israel. An IDF spokesperson also announces the 1/12 discovery of a 6th major tunnel and says preparations are underway to demolish it. He says that this is the largest and most important tunnel discovered during the operation. Meanwhile, Lebanon’s Ambassador to the UN Amal Mudallali files a formal complaint with the UN Security Council over Israel’s construction of a concrete wall along the Israel-Lebanon border. Mudallali contends that the wall is a violation of UNSC Resolution 1701, which ended the 2006 Israel-Lebanon war. (HA, HA, JP, TOI, YA 1/13)

At the weekly meeting of Israel’s cabinet, Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirms that Israel was responsible for the air strikes in Syria on 1/11. “The wave of recent attacks proves that we are determined more than ever to act against Iran in Syria,” he says, marking a rare instance of the Israeli government taking credit for an individual strike in Syria. Meanwhile, satellite photos depicting a demolished storehouse at the Damascus International Airport circulate in the Israeli media. (JP, YA 1/13; TOI 1/14)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces seize a concrete pump and 2 mixers from a Palestinian construction site in Bayt Dajan near Nablus. IDF troops arrest 3 Palestinians during raids near Hebron and Ramallah; and patrol near Nablus, Hebron, and Qalqilya. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 1 Palestinian during a late-night raid in Hizma. (MNA 12/6; PCHR 12/13)

In response to the IDF’s Operation Northern Shield, Lebanese prime minister Sa‘d Hariri tweets, “The developments in the southern Lebanon border are no reason for escalation. This is what the Lebanese government wants and is acting towards.” Hariri also says that representatives of UNIFIL, Lebanon, and Israel met on 12/5 to discuss the operation, and that the Lebanese officials affirmed that Israel’s “consistent infiltration of Lebanese territory and airspace is an obvious violation of [UNSC Resolution 1701] and its principles.” Meanwhile, Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu says there is a “reasonable possibility” that the IDF will have to expand Operation Northern Shield to activities in southern Lebanon. “We are denying our enemies the tunnels weapon in a systematic, determined manner and we will do whatever it takes,” he says. In the evening, an IDF spokesperson announces that Israeli forces have discovered another major cross-border tunnel built by Hezbollah and that Israeli officials have asked for UNIFIL’s support in destroying it from the Lebanese side of the border. (HA, HA, JP, TOI, TOI, YA, YA 12/6)

Vehicles bearing $15 million in Qatari money enter Gaza via the Erez border crossing. This marks the 2d shipment of Qatari funds into Gaza with the purpose of paying the salaries of civil servants of the Hamas-run government and supporting families not able to cover basic needs in Gaza. The first shipment of Qatari money into Gaza occurred on 11/8. Israeli security officials say that the shipments have opened a window of opportunity for Israel to propose humanitarian solutions for Gaza and possibly to secure a long-term cease-fire. (JP, TOI 12/6; HA, JP, TOI 12/7)

The UN General Assembly votes down a U.S.-proposed resolution condemning Hamas “for repeatedly firing rockets into Israel and for inciting violence, thereby putting civilians at risk,” with only 87 votes in favor (a two-thirds supermajority is required to approve this type of measure). Israeli prime minister Netanyahu tweets, “While it did not achieve a two-thirds majority, this is the first time that a majority of countries have voted against Hamas and I commend each of the 87 countries that took a principled stand against Hamas.” (AP, BBC, HA, JP, MNA, TOI, TOI, YA 12/7)

Hundreds of Palestinians gather along Gaza’s north coast to continue the Great March of Return and to cheer on approximately 30 Palestinian boats sailing in a symbolic challenge to the Israeli blockade. IDF troops and Israeli naval forces violently disperse the demonstrations; at least 30 Palestinians are injured. Meanwhile, Israeli forces conduct a limited incursion across Gaza’s border fence to level land near Dayr al-Balah and open fire on a Palestinian bird-hunter approaching the border fence near Bayt Hanun. In East Jerusalem, Israeli MK Yehuda Glick leads a group of 40 right-wing Jewish activists on a tour of Haram al-Sharif. A Palestinian demolishes his storehouse, parking area, and staircase in Silwan to avoid paying Israeli demolition fees. In the West Bank, Israeli forces demolish 2 Palestinian homes and a sheep barn in Fasayil village near Jericho. IDF troops shut down the main street in Bayt Umar while they conduct raids in the village, sparking clashes with stone-throwing Palestinians; there are no reported injuries. They also arrest 20 Palestinians and issue 1 arrest summons during late-night raids near Ramallah, Bethlehem, Tubas, Hebron, Nablus; and patrol in and around Nablus, Jenin, and Hebron. (MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 12/3; MNA 12/4; PCHR 12/6)

The IDF launches a major military operation, dubbed Operation Northern Shield, aimed at exposing and demolishing tunnels stretching from southern Lebanon into northern Israel. Hezbollah has reportedly built a network of such tunnels since 2006. Kicking off the operation, Israeli forces uncover a tunnel stretching 40 meters into Israel and booby-trap it to prevent anyone from entering from the Lebanese side. (HA, JP, JP, TOI, YA 12/4)

Hours before the launch of Operation Northern Shield, Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu meets with U.S. secretary of state Mike Pompeo in Brussels to discuss recent developments in the Middle East, including Iran’s nuclear program. Netanyahu reportedly tells Pompeo about Operation Northern Shield and asks him to tell the Lebanese government that they need to stop Hezbollah from acquiring precision-guided missiles. (HA, JP, TOI, TOI 12/3)

In Gaza, the PLO Central Council (PCC) opens debate on statehood declaration, with 96 of 124 mbrs. attending. Arafat opens the mtg. by affirming Palestinians' right to independence, but recommending against declaring a state on 5/4. Hamas sends a 4 mbr. observer group led by Shaykh Ahmad Yasin, marking 1st time it has participated in a PLO mtg.; the move is criticized by Hamas political leaders in Jordan. Islamic Jihad, Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine boycott. (MM 4/27; AFP, IDF Radio, JT 4/27 in WNC 4/28; MM, NYT, WP, WT 4/28; IDF Radio, MBC 4/28 in WNC 4/29; al-Ayyam 4/28, 4/29 in WNC 5/3; PR 4/30; MEI 5/7; al-Istiqlal 5/7 in WNC 5/17; CSM 5/17)

In Nablus, 1,000 Fatah mbrs. march in support of a statehood declaration on 5/4. (WT 4/28)

A Palestinian arrested by Israeli police on burglary charges on 4/27 is admitted to a Tel Aviv hospital having been beaten so severely that one of his kidneys stopped functioning. (Reuters [Internet] 5/6)

Without explanation, the GIS orders the Hamas weekly newspaper al-Risala closed "until further notice." Under pressure fr. unnamed PA officials, the paper is allowed to reopen several hrs. later. (AFP 4/27 in WNC 4/28; al-Hayat al-Jadida 4/29 in WNC 5/3; PR 4/30)

In Geneva, the UN Human Rights Commission passes (52-1) a resolution reaffirming the Palestinians' right to self-determination, right to return. The U.S. votes against. (ADC press release 4/28; Xinhua 4/28 in WNC 4/29; Prime Minister's Report 4/30) (see 4/23)

Israel claims that the PA has released 3 Hamas prisoners involved in attacks in which Israelis were killed. PA, Hamas deny the story. (IDF Radio 4/27 in WNC 4/28; NYT, WP 4/28; al-Ayyam 4/28 in WNC 4/29; PR 4/30; JP 5/7)

In Washington, Israeli DM Moshe Arens meets with Secy. of State Albright, NSA Berger, Secy. of Defense Cohen for talks on Arrow missile program, Israeli receipt of 60 new F-16D fighters, regional issues. Albright, Berger criticize Israeli settlement policy. (USIS Washington File 4/27; MM 4/28; IDF Radio, MA 5/3 in WNC 5/4; WJW 5/6; JP, MEI 5/7)

Lebanese security personnel arrest an Israeli woman, Mary Vizeman, on suspicion of spying after she is found in Tyre without a passport. Vizeman, who speaks Arabic well, claims that she came fr. Nazareth to visit a friend in Beirut. (VOL 4/28 in WNC 4/29; JP 5/7)

Hizballah attempts to capture 2 IDF/SLA posts in s. Lebanon, wounding 8 IDF soldiers, 3 SLA mbrs. IDF shells Hizballah targets in response, wounding 2 civilians. (VOL 4/27 in WNC 4/28; MM 4/28)

U.S. officials say government is pushing Israel to come up with a "serious and credible" plan for further redeployment (FRD) fr. 10-15% the West Bank so that talks with the Palestinians in 12/97 can show progress, may present its own position on FRD if necessary. (NYT 11/24; MM 11/25)

Netanyahu accepts resignation of dir. gen. of the Prime Minister's Office, Avidgor Lieberman, who, during the Likud convention 11/9-11, led the campaign to change the party primary process, which almost split the party. (MM, NYT, WP 11/24; Globes [Internet], ITV 11/24 in WNC 11/26; WP, WT 11/25; MEI 12/5) (see 4/15)

Iraq insists that UNSCOM inspectors avoid 63 sensitive sites, including 8 "presidential palaces." (NYT, WP 11/24; MM 11/26)

Syrian FM Faruq al-Shara` makes unexpected trip to Riyadh reportedly to discuss Iraq with Saudi Arabia's King Fahd. (MM 11/24; SA 11/24 in WNC 11/26; VIRI 11/24 in WNC 11/27; MM 12/1) (see 11/21)

Hizballah, Amal clash with IDF nr. Bayt Lif village in s. Lebanon. 7 civilians are killed; 6 civilians, 2 IDF soldiers are wounded. Several rockets land in n. Israel, causing no injuries or damage. (RL, VOL 11/23, VOL 11/24 in WNC 11/26; NYT, WP 11/24; al-Safir 11/28 in WNC 12/9)

Social/Economic/Political

Arab World: Lebanese President Rene Moawad appoints Selim al-Hoss as the country's prime minister, and asks him to form a cabinet [NYT, WP 11/14].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: In Gaza, Israeli soldier is killed, another wounded, when Palestinians open fire on army jeep. Army closes Gaza to conduct search [FBIS 11/14; NYT 11/15]. 14 Palestinians from Gaza, 8 from W. Bank are injured in clashes with soldiers. 2 Israeli bus drivers are wounded in stonethrowing incident [FBIS 11/16]. Israeli army announces it will close all schools in the O.T. for one week for fear that mass demonstrations will mark the anniversary of the declaration of the Palestinian state [FBIS 11/14].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Prime Minister Shamir calls Baker's speech calling on Israel to forswear annexation of O.T. "useless" [NYT, WP 5/24]. General strike is observed throughout O.T. Curfew in Anabta enters 20th day [FJ 5/29].

Arab World: Egyptian president Husni Mubarak gives keynote address opening Arab summit in Casablanca [WP 5/24]. Southern Lebanese town of Jezzin observes strike protesting tactics of Israeli, SLA troops [NYT 5/28].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: In Rafah at least 10 Palestinians are shot, wounded during clash. At least 7 other Palestinians are shot, injured in Gaza [FJ 5/29]. Soldiers shoot, injure 2 Palestinians in Nablus [FBIS 5124].

Arab World: Joint IDF-SLA (South Lebanese Army) patrol enters 2 Druze villages north of "security zone" [FJ 5/29].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli investigation reveals Jonathan Pollard worked for semi-secret Bureau of Science Relations (Lekem) in Washington, D.C., headed by Rafael Eitan, career Mossad agent who was adviser on terrorism to 2 previous Israeli prime ministers [LAT, NYT 11/29]. Israeli officials confirm 2 diplomats have been recalled from U.S. since Pollard spy scandal broke: Ilan Ravid, scientific affairs attache at the Israeli Embassy, and Yosef Yagur, scientific consul in New York [WP 11/29]. Israeli army prevents distribution of (East Jerusalem) Palestinian newspapers in occupied territories UP 11/29].

Arab World: Abu Nidal group issues statement in Beirut claiming responsibility for killing 2 Palestinians in Jordan this week, says they were agents of the Jordanians and Fateh organization [NYT 11/29]. Sudan orders expulsion of 3 refugee resettlement agencies implicated in airlift of Ethiopian Jews from Sudan to Israel: Intergovernmental Committee on Migration (Geneva); Joint Voluntary Agency (U.S.); and International Catholic Migration Commission [NYT 11/28].

Other Countries: Jewish Telegraphic Agency reports U.S. Agency for Intl. Development has set aside $5 million in 1986 budget for grants to provide funding for research, cooperation between Israel, third world [JTA 11/29].

Military Action

Arab World: Israeli troops sweep into Kafra and Yatar villages in S. Lebanon and round up villagers for questioning, after rockets were fired into northem Israel [LAT 11/29].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli High Court issues interim injunction ordering defense minister to refrain from deporting Khalil Abu Ziad and to show, within 3 days, why order should not be cancelled [MG 8/12]. The Israeli coordinator of govemment activities in the occupied territories, Shlomo Goren, advises Israelis to be armed and accompanied whenever entering heavily populated Palestinian areas [JP 8/12]. Jerusalem Post reports Israeli Ministry of Labor has asked IDF civil administration in south Lebanon to find Lebanese workers for manual labor in the Galilee for fruit picking and hotel jobs during high tourist season. Few Lebanese have responded. IDF reports estimate 550 Lebanese come into Israel every day to work. Some stay overnight [JP 8/11]. Israeli High Court upholds the right of a Lebanese to appeal to it for redress for the Israeli army's seizure of property during the invasion of Lebanon [JP 8/12]. The Israeli Cabinet officially and "unconditionally" condemns apartheid for the first time, but ministersay the government will make no move to end the commercial and arms trade with South Africa [WP, JP 8/12]. Absorption Minister Ya'acov Tsur presents "Master Plan for Ethiopian Jewish Absorption" to Prime Minister Peres; 84 housing units have been made available to Ethiopian Jews in West Bank; Tsur says no immigrants will be forced to relocate there [JP 8/12].

Other Countries: U.S. Sen Jesse Helms (R-N.C.) says he will initiate adefense agreement between Israel and the U.S. to include air strips, joint research and development, and cooperation in other fields. Helms is on a private visit to Israel, along with Sen. Chick Hecht of Nevada [JP 8/12]. Members of the Hispanic Caucus of the U.S. Congress leave Jerusalem for Madrid to urge government there to establish diplomatic ties with Israel. The thirteen-member caucus was visiting Israel as guests of the Anti-Defamation League UP 8/12].

Military Action

Arab World: Fighting continues in Beirut; 6 are killed, more than 47 wounded. The 7/16 Syrian-backed security plan fails to halt the fighting [NYT 8/12].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Prime Minister Peres proposes alternative peace plan to King Hussein's, based on "direct talks" with Jordanians and non-PLO Palestinians, with U.S. participation [NYT 6/11]. Nablus village of Bidya and neighboring villages placed under curfew by IDF following hand grenade attack on Israeli military vehicle [FJ 6/14].

Arab World: SLA captures French colonel involved in negotiations for release of Finns; he's later released: Gen. Antoine Lahd calls seizure a "mistake" [NYT 6/10].

Military Action

Arab World: Jerusalem Post reports IDF recently destroyed 8 homes of southem Lebanese thought to have fired rockets at IDF and SLA positions in security zone UP 6/10]. Last IDF combat battalion withdraws from Lebanon; undisclosed number of patrols, advisers, and observers remain [NYT 6/11]. Rockets hit settlements in northern Israel [LT 6/11].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: In joint communique, Israel and Egypt agree to talks on moving 6,000 Palestinians from Egyptian section of Rafah to Israeli-held portion; Israel seeks compensation for the move [LT 1/30]. Former "Black Panther" members, urban slum dwellers form activist group "Combat '85" to improve conditions in poor Israeli neighborhoods; among 1st demands is shift of W. Bank settlement funds to poor urban areas [JTA 1/29]. Knesset debates govt. decision to abolish office of adviser to the prime minister on Arab affairs [JP 1/30].

Arab World: PLO Central Com. mbr. 'Abd al-Rahim Ahmad reports Committee to meet mid-February to discuss jordanianPalestinian relations, other subjects; meeting to be held in Algeria, S. Yemen or Tunisia [MG 1/30].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: IDF detain scores of residents of northern mountain in Nablus after gasoline bomb thrown at IDF vehicle; later released for lack of evidence [FJ 2/1].

Arab World: Katyusha launched at IDF position in Ruman, S. Lebanon; no injuries [JP 1/30]. IDF kill 4 resistance fighters near Jezzine, S. Lebanon [JP 1/31].

Military Action:

IDF and Syrian Army exchange fire in Beqaa; heavy fighting between PLO factions, and between Lebanese Army and Palestinian forces of Col. Said Musa near Army's Baalbek base, Syrians intervene; IDF surrounds, occupies Phalangist barracks at Kfar Falus, east of Sidon, in effort to evict militiamen.

Casualties:

1 IDF officer killed by Syrian fire; 2 killed, 8 wounded in Baalbek fighting; Christian and Druze militias permit convoys of food and medicine to reach Chouf towns of Bhamdoun and Aley, blockaded for past 35 days; bombs explode in 5 shops selling Israeli goods in Ain al-Hilweh camp; IDF releases following statistics on effect of redeployment: it is withdrawing from 600 of 3,400 sq. km. it now holds, 200,000 of the 750,00 civilians in this total area will come under control of Beirut, IDF frontline will be reduced from 118 to 113 km; more than 100 Palestinian and Lebanese women at Prime Minister's office demand intervention to secure release of men presumably kidnapped by Phalangists at time of Sabra and Shatila massacre.

Political Responses:

Israel/ Occupied Territories: 2 Birzeit students sentenced to 18 months imprisonment for participating in last week's demonstration over killing of Hebron students; IDF imposes curfew on Tulkarm-Nablus road after settlers wounded by shots near Anabta.

Palestinians/ Lebanese: Arafat asks OAU and Nonaligned Movement to intervene against Syrian and Libyan attacks on PLO; McFarlane meets Gemayel, then flies to Israel.

UN: US vetoes, Zaire abstains, 13 states support Security Council resolution that Israeli settlements in occupied lands have no legal validity and constitute major and serious obstruction to peace.

Political Responses:

Israel/ Occupied Territories: Sharon submits resignation as Defense Minister; spokesman for Prime Minister's office says Sharon can remain in Cabinet as Minister without Portfolio; Sharon says there was a reshuffle of portfolios, I am still in the Cabinet, Begin did not fire me, tells Bar Association that determination of "indirect responsibility" will be stamped as a mark of Cain on our foreheads; Sharon aide Uri Dan says those who do not accept him as Defense Minister will have to accept him as Prime Minister; 10,000 attend Haifa funeral of Peace Now member, Emil Grunzweig, killed by grenade outside Cabinet meeting; two moshavim reported to have set up dormitory facilities for workers from West Bank and Gaza; Israeli government expresses formal displeasure to Vatican over continuing anti-Israeli activities of Archbishop Hilarion Capucci.

Palestinians/ Lebanese: PLO spokesman in Algiers says Reagan plan contains some positive elements and will be debated at forthcoming PNC meeting; President Gemayel meets with Habib, discusses new US proposals, reportedly calling for 3 stage withdrawal over ten week period and doubling size of MNF.

US and Other Countries: Religious delegation from Kiryat Arba arrives in US to explain new Jewish Agency project aimed at bringing 1000 families from US to Israel as settlers this summer; article in Foreign Policy magazine by Defense Editor of Israeli newpaper Ha'aretz states that US had advance knowledge of Israeli invasion of Lebanon and effectively gave Israel green light.

Political Responses:

Israel/ Occupied Territories: Prime Minister's office reacts angrily to reports that US may postpone Begin's visit if no progress is made in Lebanon peace talks; Eitan is criticized by Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee for comments on Lebanon yesterday; former military intelligence chief Shlomo Gazit, now President of Ben Gurion University in Beersheba, says Arafat's success is the large number of men Israel keeps mobilized to prevent terrorism, that security forces should not be kept on alert in the West Bank; El Al airlines resumes operations after 4 month strike over issue of flights on Sabbath and Jewish holidays; Minister for Science and Development Yuval Ne'eman, acting chair of Cabinet settlement committee, issues communique that settlements in West Bank, Gaza Strip and Golan Heights will continue despite US criticism; Israeli military experts reported organizing Zairian army; military roadblock around Najah University effectively implementing Order 854 which requires students from other districts to have special permit to attend university; Civil Administration says it is not involved in land dispute over Hebron municipality electricity pylons torn down by Kiryat Arba residents, that IDF is responsible; military authorities declare Hebron closed military area to prevent 50 Peace Now members from assisting Hebron residents re-erect and guard electricity pylons.

Palestinians/ Lebanese: PLO Chairman Arafat meets with CPSU Secretary-General Yuri V. Andropov and Foreign Minister Andrei A. Gromyko, Arafat and Andropov declare that US shares full responsibility for Israel's criminally aggressvie actions because it gives Israel all the assistance it needs; Lebanese Government states preference for expanded role for UNIFIL throughout Lebanon after withdrawal of Israeli, Syrian and Palestinian forces; Dany Chamoun visits Saad Haddad in Marjayoun and Christian notables in Klea.

Arab Govemnments: King Fahd confers in Riyadh with Walid Jumblatt; Morocco retracts announcement on Arab League delegation, saying no decision will be made until Arab foreign ministers meet in Marrakesh; President Assad tells visiting Arab news agencies' directors that Syria rejects current Middle East peace plans, but would attend an Arab summit to map out collective action.

US and Other Countries: 500 at United Jewish Appeal luncheon addressed by Israeli President Navon, who says both Labor and Likud parties agree that a return to 1967 borders is not acceptable, PLO is a terrorist organization, a West Bank Palestinian state would be a security threat to Israel and base for Soviet intervention in the region, that Jerusalem is the undivided capital of Israel, but he says that Israel would take into consideration any change in the PLO covenant; Italian General Confederation of Labor meets with leaders of Rome's Jewish community to formulate plans to combat anti-Semitism.

Military Action:

Druze-Phalange militia gunbattles in Maarufiye-Bsada region, near Baabda; Lebanese internal security forces deployed in areas of Tripoli to monitor cease-fire.

Casualties:

Government offices, banks, shops and many schools reopen in Tripoli.

Political Responses:

Israel/ Occupied Territories: Israeli officials say Government is prepared to allow UNIFIL a 2 month extension, to operate around Palestinian refugee camps above 25 mile security zone, do not want UNIFIL within security zone; MK Yitzhak Rabin says war in Lebanon was illegal use of IDF for far-reaching political goals; Defense Ministry informs Umm al-Fahm residents that 15,000 dunums of their land is declared a military zone and cultivation must cease; troops raid Najah University, remove Palestinian posters and flags; military authorities close Kadri Tukan high school after border police injured by stones following celebration of 18th anniversary of Fateh in Nablus; all Nablus and neighboring Balata camp under undeclared curfew; Israeli traffic stoned in Ramallah and Bethlehem, with total of 5 settlers injured during week; Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs spokesman Avraham Hoffmann says $150,000 promotion campaign will encourage Israelis to settle in West Bank, and provide clearing house for information on available housing, World Zionist Organization goal is 100,000 settlers by 1985, current number is 25,000.

Palestinians/ Lebanese: Arafat meets with Jordanian Prime Minister Mudar Badran, holds press conference in Amman in which he praises the Reagan plan for calling for a settlement freeze, and criticizes plan for denying Palestinian right to independent state; Abu lyad says meeting of Fateh Central Committee in Kuwait on 6 January rejected the Reagan plan; Lebanese-Israeli-US talks held in Khalde deadlocked over agenda as US compromise proposals are unacceptable, but new proposals submitted.

US and Other Countries: US State Department confirms several encounters between IDF and Marines in Beirut; Special Envoy Habib confers with Reagan, Shultz and Bush before leaving for Middle East, amid growing Administration frustration that delay in Israeli and Syrian troop withdrawals impede Jordan's involvement in peace negotiations as proposed in Reagan Plan; B'nai B'rith Anti-Defamation League releases report that anti-Semitic violence in US decreased by 15% in 1982, to 829 incidents, mostly in New York, California, New Jersey and Massachusetts; New York City Mayor Koch presents key to city to President Navon, pledges support of Israel, Navon tells Yeshiva University students to settle in Israel; Italian Defense Minister Lelio Lagorio, in Beirut, announces Italy considering sending another battalion to Lebanon, bringing total troops to 4,000.

UN: Senegal, Fiji, Norway, Ireland, Holland, Ghana, Finland, France, Sweden and Italy will keep troops in UNIFIL; Nigeria will remove troops from UNIFIL.

Military Action:

Marines prevent IDF from entering Bourj-al-Barajneh for second time, but IDF moves into Lailaki using random anti-tank grenades and machine gun fire to search area; after fourth encounter between IDF and Marines in 1 week, US Embassy in Beirut expresses concern; truce in Tripoli policed by PLO because Lebanese security forces refuse to patrol area so long as opposing forces maintain positions.

Casualties:

1 PLO member killed, 3 wounded in Tripoli.

Political Responses:

Israel/ Occupied Territories: Israeli Government rejects US-proposed compromise on agenda for Lebanon negotiations; at Cabinet meeting Begin promises Deputy Premier David Levy and Communications Minister Mordechai Zipori, both Herut Party critics of Sharon, that Cabinet will hold special debate on Lebanon; Young Guards of Labor Party elects as chairman Moshe Cohen, a political centrist who will seek to end leftward lurch of party, to terminate Labor's alignment with Mapam and a rapprochement with religious parties; all police units launch anti-terrorist drive following attack on bus, reveal several bomb incidents since summer, including 280 kg bomb in car in Negev defused, bomb under bench in Herzliya which wounded 4, 4.5 kg bomb in Jerusalem defused, security forces played down and withheld information on incidents; Israeli trade with Lebanon valued at $8 million each for November and December; Peace Now group demonstrates outside Prime Minister Begin's office; dozens of Palestinians arrested in Tel Aviv after yesterday's grenade attck, 2 molotov cocktails thrown at police station in Dheisheh refugee camp, no injuries, security forces seal area, search but no arrests; 10 Najah University students arrested, charged with incitement; Kiryat Arba residents pull down Hebron municipality electricity poles for second time, and Acting Mayor Mustafa Natshe says he received threatening letter from Kiryat Arba council demanding removal of the utility poles; Elon Moreh settlers fire shots into Nablus Dal al-Tafel kindergarten and its bus, military authorities seal off Nablus market area.

Palestinians/ Lebanese: Arafat holds talks with King Hussein in Amman, also attending are members of Joint Committee, as Hussein tells Arafat his talks with Reagan were positive and successful; Lebanese Director General of Internal Security Forces Hisham Shaar says conscription may be necessary to keep balance of Christians and Muslims in police force; reports circulating in Beirut that AUB President David Dodge, kidnapped during war, may be alive and held in Bekaa Valley; Internal Security Chief Hisham Shaar and Syrian Deputy Chief of Staff General Ali Aslan meet in Tripoli, agree to patrols there by Lebanese security forces.

Arab Governments: Egyptian President Mubarak calls on Hussein and Arafat to negotiate on the basis of the Reagan plan, before US presidential elections and more settlements make it too late to reach agreement, says that only thing that bothers him about US foreign policy is US Congress' decision to increase aid to Israel; Egyptian Foreign Minister Kamal Hassan Ali says Egyptian ambassador to Israel will return to his post as soon as agreement is reached on Israeli withdrawal from Lebanon; Saudi King Fahd holds series of meetings with Walid Jumblatt, Moroccan Foreign Minister Mohammed Boucetta, Fateh Executive Committee member Abu Mazen.

US and Other Countries: Senator Charles Percy (R-IL) states support for Israeli position that withdrawal from Lebanon should be accompanied by business-like relations; columnist Jack Anderson publishes opinion poll of the world's worst leaders with Menahem Begin ranking fifth after Khomeini, Qaddafi, Mobutu and Duvalier; 1,500 New York area Jews who have applied for aliya attend speech by Israeli President Navon in synagogue.

Military Action:

IDF advances toward Bourj al-Barajneh from .Khalde, sets up new positions near airport; after overnight lull, fighting resumes in Tripoli.

Casualties:

5 killed, several wounded in Tripoli; Lebanese security forces say 25,000 homeless in Tripoli; 6 IDF prisoners held by PLO, shown on Jordanian TV, say their health is satisfactory, that the Red Cross has visited 4 times in 4 months.

Political Responses:

Israel/ Occupied Territories: Hand grenade thrown at bus in Tel Aviv injures 12, police arrest 86 Arabs in the area; Shinui Knesset group urges Begin to freeze settlements and invite Hussein to Jerusalem for negotiations; military authorities set up roadblock at Najah University to prevent delegation from Tel Aviv University from entering campus, but delegation takes back roads to reach campus; at 1 AM Israeli armored vehicles enter Jalazon camp to break up pre-election meeting of camp club, and by sunrise, checkpoints erected at all exits where residents must register ID as they leave for work; Nablus youth stone border patrol, burn tires, soldiers fire tear gas to disperse protest.

Palestinians/ Lebanese: Prime Minister Wazzan goes to Damascus, talks with Assad for 3 hours, returns to Beirut with Assad's agreement that Lebanese security forces enter Tripoli to police cease-fire.

US and Other Countries: University professors in Boston are told by Israeli President Navon that if they are going to criticize Israel's security policy, they should go live in Israel, are reminded that the Labor government initiated settlements in the West Bank.

Military Action:

After day of quiet, renewed artillery exchanges in Tripoli, coastal road cut 20 miles south of city; IDF announces 4 Katyusha rockets found in South Lebanon.

Casualties:

UNRWA asks IDF for protection from Palestinian refugees in Sidon protesting delay in distribution of kerosene heating stoves, cement and winter clothing; 16-tent school operating in Ain el-Hilweh; 625 building plots cleared and allocated by UNRWA, 590 plots cleared by refugees, 850 plots allocated in Tyre; 40 killed, more wounded, large sections of Tripoli without electricity, water, telephone and basic food, hospitals short of supplies, many civilians living in shelters. 

Political Responses:

Israel/ Occupied Territories: IDF spokes-man announces Syria is building 2 bases for Soviet SA-5 missiles, warns USSR not to deploy missiles in Syria; President Yitzhak Navon begins 2 week visit to US, will meet Reagan with Shultz, Kissinger, AFL-CIO, Jewish groups; Mapam MK Elazar Granot introduces motion in Knesset that Sharon be removed as Defense Minister and be replaced in Lebanon negotiations because of his leak about a separate agreement with Lebanese leaders and distortion of the facts of the war from its beginning; Foreign Minister Shamir charges that Lebanese Muslim leaders opposed to normalization with Israel are agents of foreign interests, and reiterates commitment to Eretz Israel, calling on international convention delegates to invest all efforts in aliya; Moshavim Herut and Mismeret will close illegal camps for Arab workers who will have to return to Gaza to sleep; Yitzhak Rabin, touring settlements, says Labor Party firmly opposed to any withdrawal to 1948 green line, that Camp David accord includes change in frontier to incorporate Jerusalem and Jordan Valley; Peace Now distributes document of military government which says Science and Technology Minister Yuval Ne'eman and his assistant MK Hanan Porat helped establish supervisory teams of settlers to guard state lands and may be used to deport Palestinians; Peace Now charges that Kiryat Arba council intends to pressure and persuade Arab shop-owners to leave Hebron; at his courtmartial, IDF paratrooper and Deputy Commander of Judea District Major David Mofaz, one of seven defendants, excuses his beating of Palestinian students at Hebron's Islamic University by charging that District Commander Lt. Col. Shalom Lugassi instructed soldiers to beat, pester and break watches of demonstrators, that Sharon said Arab rioters should have their testicles ripped off; West Bank Military Commander Yaakov Hartabi testifies soldiers acted properly and according to written and oral orders.

Palestinians/ Lebanese: Prime Minister Shafik Wazzan calls Syrian Prime Minister Abdel Raouf al-Kassem, appealing for security measures to end fighting in Tripoli; Rashid Karami goes to Damascus; local Tripoli leaders Mohammed Ali Dannawi of Muslim Salvation Front and Farouk Mokaddam of October 24 Movement call for withdrawal of Syrian troops from Tripoli.

US and Other Countries: US Special Envoy Philip Habib summoned from vacation to Washington as President Reagan prepares a new initiative to break Lebanon stalemate.

Military Action:

Syrians shell IDF in Bekaa; Lebanese Army raids Murabitun Cultural Center in Beirut, seizes 14,000 religious books and legal documents, Wazzan orders books returned, Lebanese Grand Mufti issues protest.

Casualties:

Israeli official says Israeli exports to Lebanon totalled $9.3 m. in October, total trade exchange for year will total $100 m. by December.

Political Responses:

Israel/ Occupied Territories: High Court orders Sharon to explain legal basis for detentions at Ansar camp, in suit brought by Leah Tsemel, demanding camps be open to lawyers and family visits; Israeli sources indicate 11 So- viet citizens killed when Israelis destroyed downed lAF aircraft in an effort to prevent its secret equipment from falling into enemy hands; El Al workers fight riot police in Tel Aviv after failing to win injunction against dissolution of airline; Industry and Trade Minister Gideon Pratt meets with delegates of four Black African countries during GATT conference in Geneva (countries have no diplomatic relations with Israel but seek more commercial ties); Israeli official says Israeli debt repayments to US now larger than incoming loans from US.

Palestininas/ Lebanese: Arafat authorizes PLO participation in 14-member commission with Jordan to draw up proposals for peace negotiations; Arafat attends first meeting of Commission, headed by PLO leader Dajani and Jordanian Prime Minister Badran; Arafat leaves for South Yemen; PLO spokesman in Paris says PLO will never recognize Israel, says Reagan initiative "Zionist."

Arab Governments: Saudi King Fahd meets Habib in Morocco to receive report on status of withdrawal negotiations.

US and Other Countries: Republican-controlled Senate Appropriations Committee approves $11.5 billion foreign aid bill, including $2.6 b. for Israel ($125 million in economic and $350 million in military loans/grants more than Administration requested); Reagan later urges House Appropriations Committee to reject the additional aid to Israel.

Military Action:

35 Lebanese Army soldiers seize drugs, including all anesthesia, from Gaza Hospital serving Shatila and Sabra camps.

Casualties:

Lebanese Prime Minister Wazzan meets with women demonstrators, later agrees to seek speeding up of detainees interrogations.

Political Responses:

Israel/ Occupied Territories: Labor leader Peres denies he has agreed to yield party leadership to President Navon; over 2,000 Peace Now activists hold protest rallies against settlement efforts in Hebron, Nofim and Shavei Shomron.

Palestinians/ Lebanese: Arafat delays departure from Syria for Amman for 4 hours, but finally leaves without meeting Assad; Lebanese Prime Minister Wazzan again charges Israel with stalling talks with demand for political negotiations after meeting with Gemayel and Draper.

Arab Governments: Hussein meets Habib, then Arafat, to discuss peace plans; Egyptian Foreign Minister Hassan Ali asserts Fateh faction of PLO accepts Reagan plan.

US and Other Countries: Draper flies to Israel for talks with David Kimche on negotiations; US sources now expect evacuation of forces from Lebanon to be pushed back two or three months.

Military Action:

Israeli military patrol ambushed near Tyre.

Casualties:

Over 200 Lebanese and Palestinian women demonstrate outside Prime Minister Wazzan's Beirut office demanding release of husbands and sons arrested by the Lebanese Army.

Political Responses:

Israel/ Occupied Territories: Commission of Inquiry publishes warning to Begin, Sharon, Shamir, four top army commanders (Eitan, Yaron, Drori, Seguy) and two other officials (Dudai, Mossad head) that they may be found guilty of "nonfulfillment of duty" before and during massacre (detailed letters sent to each give them 15 days to notify Commission whether they want to reappear to testify, submit new evidence, or cross-examine other witnesses, gives them the right to seek legal counsel); Shamir, in appearance before Commission denies that he was told of massacre by fellow Cabinet member September 17, says Zipori never mentioned killings, only "running wild," asserts he only heard of civilian deaths Saturday, September 18; border troops dispatched to Ben Gurion airport to quell worker riots following share-holders' vote to dismantle El Al airlines; West Bank university administrators given one week to decide whether to accept revised work permit form for foreign lecturers.

Palestinians/ Lebanese: PLO adviser Nabil Shaath, in interview, says PLO rejects reconizing Israel in return for talks with US government.

Arab Governments: Syria rejects Habib call for simultaneous, phased withdrawal from Lebanon.

US and Other Countries: Habib arrives in Jerusalem in effort to gain agreement on beginning talks, meets with Shamir; US State Department expresses concern over "creeping annexation" and new guidelines for reducing influence of West Bank Palestinians who support the PLO; Mitterrand arrives in Cairo.

Military Action:

Car bomb explodes in Druze town of Aramoun; Phalange militia occupies Lebanese Army barracks in Beit Eddin and Deir al-Qamar; IDF vehicle fired on near Nabatiyeh.

Casualties:

One killed, 4 wounded in Aramoun, brings to over 50 total killed in Chouf incidents in past two weeks; Tyre curfew lifted and road to Israeli border reopened; PLO protests to ICRC over treatment of prisoners in South Lebanon detention camps.

Political Responses:

Israel/ Occupied Territories: Begin's 62-year old wife dies and Begin leaves US for Israel to begin 30-day mourning period, postponing indefinitely meeting with Reagan; 47 Israeli victims of Tyre explosion buried; General Meir Zorea, head of military inquiry, reports to Cabinet that explosion not caused by a bomb, and Energy Minister Modai says it was probably caused by leaking cooking gas; Deputy Prime Minister Ehrlich chairs Cabinet meeting devoted to mourning Aliza Begin and Tyre victims; Shamir reports on meetings with Draper and lack of Lebanese response to Israeli proposals on format/ content of proposed talks; Modai proposes IDF unilaterally withdraw from parts of Lebanon to get talks going and to test Syrian/Lebanese intentions; al-Hamishmar demands withdrawal of IDF from Lebanon and resignation of Sharon in wake of Tyre disaster; IDF source indicates Defense Ministry postponed plans to raze abandoned Ein Sultan refugee camp north of Jericho on night following Beirut massacres (razing reportedly related to efforts to build more Jewish settlements in area); three Nahal settlements of Elisha, Beit Arava, Tzurif currently being "civilianized"; at Commission of Inquiry, senior IDF officer and Eitan aide Ze'ev Zecharin contradicts Sharon and Begin, says Sharon spoke of Phalange entry into camps September 14 (not September 15 as Sharon asserted), says Eitan told him Saturday morning, September 18, that Begin had requested information on Gaza Hospital in Sabra camp (denied by Begin), says Eitan instructed IDF to restrict artillery support to minimize civilian casualties, to impose a curfew on all areas of Lebanon under IDF control, to ask Phalange to mobilize forces to take camps regardless of timing of IDF advance into West Beirut, says Eitan flew to Beirut Wednesday, September 17, to detail IDF plans to Phalange but Phalange asked for 24-hour delay to get organized, and agreed that Mossad officer not IDF would act as liaison with Phalange, says Sharon ordered Phalange to enter camps after Wednesday morning arrival at IDF Beirut divisional command post, says no Phalange irregularities raised and no questions asked in Eitan's meeting with Phalange commanders Friday afternoon, says Phalange, during Sunday morning meeting with Eitan, admitted killing civilians but said "We won't go with this to the media, that we did it, because it will hurt us in the Presidential elections"; Zecharin's testimony curtailed at IDF request after contradiction with Dudai testimony highlighted; Foreign Ministry official Ariel Kenet testifies that two inquiries from ministry's Beirut representative Friday afternoon noted US envoy Draper's concern at seeing Phalange inside camps and Lebanese Prime Minister Wazzan's report of patients being killed at Gaza Hospital, asserts he alerted David Kimche, who instructed him to notify Defense Ministry.

Palestinians/ Lebanese: PLO Executive Committee member Hanna Nassir says Palestine National Council meeting may not occur before January; Arafat attends Brezhnev funeral in Moscow; Amin Gemayel and Wazzan arrive in Riyadh for 2 days of talks with King Fahd, seeking Saudi help in rebuilding Lebanon, support for withdrawal of PLO and Syrian forces; Wazzan, before departing, says Lebanon wants Israel out of Lebanon, is uninterested in direct negotiations.

US and Other Countries: Reagan phones condolences to Begin; State Department indicates it hopes Israel will not retaliate for Tyre explosion; fears raised that Begin's return to Israel is setback for Reagan peace plan.

UN: UNRWA says by next June, $43.4 million will have been spent on emergency aid to Lebanon but only $31 million has been raised to date.

Military Action:

Phalange forces, backed by IDF, have artillery duels with Syrian-supported Lebanese leftist militia; Phalange-Druze conflicts reported (nephew of Gemayel reportedly killed); Muslim/Christian conflicts around Tripoli; 2 Israeli generals visit Jumblatt's center, demand that his forces surrender artillery and mortars; Phalange moves into Chouf and Sidon, replacing Lebanese gendarmerie; Israeli jets hold mock battles over Beirut, dropping flares over Palestinian refugee camps; PLO bolsters positions inside W. Beirut; Phalange shoot from behind IDF lines.

Casualties:

Israeli government developing plans for security of southern Lebanon not involving international help (arms and uniforms given to villagers); observers report more physical damage in Tyre than Sidon (where casualties higher); Lebanese bankers protest IDF attempt to violate bank secrecy in Sidon; IDF asks Druze/Phalange leaders to stop fighting between followers (Phalange reportedly using arms against Druze; IDF caught in cross-fire); villages of Jumblatt refuse to be disarmed (Druze Likud Knesset member asks Sharon to restrain Phalangists "who draw their strength from the Defense Minister").

UNRWA reports that 50 percent of houses in 6 Palestinian refugee camps near Sidon/Tyre are destroyed, 40 percent of refugees have fled, UNRWA convoy scheduled to leave Jerusalem for Tyre today (draws on stocks in Gaza and West Bank); two-thirds of two camps near Tyre destroyed (no clear report on third camp); Ain el-Hilweh reportedly "virtually wiped out," Rashidiyeh suffers less damage; 200,000 tons of aid from France, West Germany, Denmark waiting in Cyprus for IDF permission to ship; Canadian physician who worked in Sidon says 50 percent of 10,000 killed by IDF invasion were children under 13 (his hospital was bombed 4 times, he saw pellet bombs dropped on refugee camps, and saw Palestinian prisoners beaten with clubs and metal-tipped whips).

Political Responses:

Israel/ Occupied Territories: Begin disagrees with message from Haig that PLO should be allowed token political presence in Lebanon if Lebanon agrees (says that despite his statement in the US that Israel had no intention of entering Beirut, with IDF on Beirut's periphery "it was another matter," and urges Beirut residents to "flee for your lives"); Israeli Cabinet agrees to give negotiations more time, extends "deadline"; officials indicate Saudi plans for airlift might be acceptable; Foreign Ministry condemns EEC call for involvement of PLO in negotiations; Labor Alignment resolution opposing military action in Beirut gets 47 votes (Likud resolution gets 60, reference to multinational policing of 28-mile zone conspicuously absent); cost of war put at $2.5 billion for Israel ($1 b. in direct costs, $1.5 b. in indirect costs from resultant economic slowdown; equals 10-15 percent of GNP); IDF service extension for those essential for war effort being discussed; officials claim PLO takes advantage of peace negotiations; 200 protest Israeli invasion near Prime Minister's office (including 15 reservists back from Lebanon, who say they have signatures of 200 soldiers opposed to the war); trial of 20 Palestinian youths for guerrilla actions begins in Lydda and Ramal-lah; Israeli Druze leader asks Begin to restrain Phalange attacks on Lebanese Druze.

Palestinians/ Lebanese: Phalange party plans to nominate Bashir Gemayel for Lebanese President; negotiations stall as no Arab countries indicate willingness to accept all PLO fighters; Lebanese continue to flee Beirut, leaving streets deserted; Wazzan puts civilian deaths at 15,000 (IDF Colonel Kadar says deaths number only a few thousand-in excess of 440 civilian deaths cited by Begin last week); Wazzan, after meeting with Habib, rejects Israeli conditions; PLO forces in Tripoli vow to fight on regardless of any settlement in-volving PLO forces in Beirut; PLO privately reiterates willingness to leave Lebanon (form of evacuation and surrender of arms left un-resolved); PLO meets with Salam.

Arab Govemments: Saudis reported active diplomatically; Arab League representatives meet in Taif to continue discussion of common approach to IDF invasion (includes Syrian, Saudi, Lebanese, PLO, Algerian and Kuwaiti envoys).

US and Other Countries: Reagand enies giving Israel "green light" for invasion, says it resulted from PLO rocket attacks on Israel; Senator Percy says IDF invasion of W. Beirut would be "unacceptable" because of civilian casualties; State Department official warns of risk of renewed fighting if PLO and Lebanon do not come to terms soon; Haig sends message saying PLO should be allowed some political presence in Lebanon if Lebanese authorities agree; French Foreign Minister Cheysson, after meeting with Egyptian envoy Ghali, speaks of PLO as representing Palestinian people; Greek Ministry of Culture supervises huge concert in Athens to aid Palestinian children; Nigerian parliament passes resolution condemning Israel; protests held in cities in USSR; USSR accuses Israelis of using chemical weapons in Lebanon supplied by US.