The Palestine Chronology

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Jewish Telegraphic Agency reports official delegation from Jordanian Ministry of Agriculture visited West Bank recently for 4 days to talk to local farmers, the 4th such visit by a Jordanian agricultural working group; Israeli authorities were officially notified of the visit UTA 11/12]. Israeli govt. sends strong protest to Egyptians over Cairo Declaration, states Egyptian support for Arafat could delay peace process [WP 11/13].

Arab World: Israeli military says 3 Lebanese villages have asked to be incorporated into S. Lebanon security zone [JTA 11/13].

Other Countries: New U.S. special M.E. representative Wat Cluverius visits Cairo for update on Yasir Arafat's visit there [LT 11/13].

Military Action

Arab World: Suicide bomber crashes into monastery north of Beirut where 5 of Lebanon's Christian political leaders are meeting; bomber and 4 others are reported killed, 23 injured, leaders escape unharmed. Previously unheard of group calling itself the Vanguard of Arab Christians claims responsibility in a phone call, states action was to prevent leaders from allying Lebanese Christians with Israel [NYT, WP 11/13]. 

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Yuval Ne'eman, head of the Tehiya party, claims to have seen and copied secret documents outlining power-sharing between Jordan and Israel over control of the West Bank; Ne'eman claims the working paper gives control of West Bank cities and the Old City of Jerusalem to Jordan. Peres denies existence of such a document [CT, LAT, JP 11/1]. Energy Min. Moshe Shahal of Labor party states Jordan has offered to supply electricity to the W. Bank, Israel is considering the proposal. Most of the area now is hooked up to the Israeli electric grid [CT, LAT 11/1]. High Court rules MK Meir Kahane may introduce bills containing racist language in the Knesset despite Knesset Presidium attempts to bar him. Kahane introduces 2 bills: one states only Jews may become citizens of Israel; other bans marriages between Jews and non-Jews [JTA 11/1; JWP 11/8].

Arab World: Der Spiegel reports PLO's financial assets top $6 billion, states PLO controls 70% of Jordan's economy [JP 10/31].

Military Action

Arab World: Israeli warplanes stage mock raids over suspected Palestinian and Druze bases in Shuf Mountains east of Beirut, drawing heavy anti-aircraft fire but doing no damage [CT 11/1]

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: MK Meir Kahane sues State Dept. over his loss of U.S. citizenship [BG 10/13; WP 10/15].

Arab World: Pres. Mubarak accuses U.S. of "piracy" in interception of Egyptian plane carrying 4 hijackers, says action could obstruct the M.E. peace process [NYT, WP 10/13]. Thousands of rock-throwing demonstrators clash with police outside Cairo University [WP, BG 10/13]. All 4 members of joint Jordanian-Palestinian delegation have arrived in London for talks with British Foreign Ministry. They are: Jordanian Deputy P.M. 'Abd al-Wahab al-Majali; Jordanian For. Min. Tahir al-Masri; PLO delegate Bishop Iliyas Khuri; and former West Bank Mayor Muhammad Milham [LT 10/13]. Beirut newspaper publishes photo which Islamic Jihad group claims is corpse of kidnapped American William Buckley. Jihad offers to turn body over in exchange for release of 100 Palestinian prisoners in Israel. Jihad claims it executed Buckley on 10/4 in retaliation for Israeli bombing of PLO headquarters in Tunis [NYT 10/13].

Other Countries: Pres. Reagan orders federal bomb experts to investigate bombing of ADC office in Santa Ana, Calif. which killed Alex Odeh [BG 10/13]. Muhammed (Abu) al-'Abbas and another unidentified PLO official are reported to leave Italy for Yugoslavia after U.S. officials issue warrant for 'Abbas' arrest [NYT 10/13]. FBI Dir. William Webster states 2 "crack teams" of agents have been sent to Italy to monitor prosecution of hijackers, FBI is increasing surveillance of several pro-Palestinian groups in the U.S. to "guard against possible retaliation" [BG 10/13].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: P.M. Peres praises U.S. interception of plane carrying 4 hijackers [BG 10/12].

Arab World: PLO officials in Tunis condemn U.S. interception of Egyptian plane carrying 4 hijackers; PLO officials in Tunis say Tunisia had refused entry to an Egyptian airplane thought to be carrying the 4 hijackers before the plane left Egypt [NYT 10/11]. Anonymous telephone caller to Beirut newspaper threatens to strike at "U.S. interests" throughout the world if the 4 hijackers are hurt in prison [LT 10/12]. Egypt condemns the U.S. interception of plane carrying 4 hijackers, expresses "deep regret" at "surprising" American action [WP, NYT 10/12].

Other Countries: Bomb in office kills regional executive director of American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee in Santa Ana, Califomia, Alex Odeh, 37, and injures 7 others. Odeh had appeared on TV the night before and called Yasir Arafat "a man of peace." No one claims responsibility; Jewish Defense League praises the action [NYT, WP 10/12]. Public prosecutor in Italy charges 4 hijackers with murder, kidnapping, hijacking of a ship, and possession of arms and explosives. Uncertainty remains over how 2 other senior Palestinian officials also taken into custody when the plane carrying them was intercepted will be treated; they are Abu al-'Abbas, head of the faction of the Palestine Liberation Front which allegedly carried out the hijacking, and another unidentified PLO official [NYT, WP 10/12]. U.S. agrees to let Italians prosecute hijackers but will maintain extradition request [NYT 10/13]. Jewish Press reports House Ways and Means Committee has adopted legislation to exempt Israel Bonds from a 1984 provision which increases taxes on loans made at below market level interest rates. Israel Bonds, at interest rates of 4%, are far below market level [JWP 10/11]. Harvard U. announces Prof. Nadav Safran "erred" in not reporting use of CIA funds to organize conference on fundamentalist Islam and to write book on Saudi Arabian security; Safran will not be disciplined [NYT, WP 10/12]

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Al-Fajr reports Palestinian political prisoners in Asqalan and Jenin prisons begin open-ended hunger strike this week to protest brutal actions by guards. Mothers and relatives of Asqalan prisoners continue their hunger strike at the Gaza Red Cross office; Israeli army threatens to disband their sit-in strike by force [FJ 10/4]. Al-Fajr daily prints obituary for Lt. Col. Muhammad al-Ghoul, the chief of security for the Tunis headquarters of the PLO killed in the 10/1 raid. Other reports mention death of Abu al-Tayyib, leader of Force 17, Arafat's bodyguard unit [BG 10/5].

Arab World: Tunisian civilians killed in 10/1 Israeli air raid on PLO headquarters in Tunis have been quietly buried to avoid anti-American backlash, Tunis announces; 60 died in the raid, including 12 Tunisian civilians [WP 10/5]. Tunisian police are deployed to prevent opposition parties from marching on the U.S. embassy [FT 10/5].

Other Countries: UN Sec. Council passes, by vote of 14-0 (with the U.S. abstaining), resolution condemning Israeli air raid on PLO headquarters in Tunis, urging member countries to "take measures to dissuade Israel from resorting to such acts," stating Tunisia's right to reparations. PLO rep. to the UN Zuhdi Tarzi accuses U.S. of "collusion" in the raid [LAT 10/5; NYT 10/6]. Two Palestinians and 1 Briton accused of the 9/25 murder of 3 Israelis in Lamaca appear before Cyprus court. Israel says the 3 are members of Fateh's Force 17, but Force 17 officials in Tunis deny they ordered the executions [DT 10/4]. Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev states Russia may reestablish diplomatic ties with Israel if there is movement toward overall settlement to the Arab-Israeli conflict [TS 10/5]. State Dept. announces MK Meir Kahane's U.S. citizenship has been revoked because of his membership in the Israeli Knesset [WP 10/5; JP 10/6].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Body of an Israeli, Haim Falah, who had been shot in the head, is found in the Galilee [MG 10/7]. Anonymous caller phones Western news agency in Jerusalem and claims responsibility on behalf of Fateh's Force 17 for killing 2 other Israelis near Jerusalem; their bodies have not yet been found [MG 10/7].

Arab World: Islamic Jihad organization delivers message and Polaroid photo to 2 Beirut newspapers stating they have executed William Buckley, political officer at the U. S. embassy held hostage since March 1984, in retaliation for Israel's 10/1 air raid on PLO headquarters in Tunis, in which they said the U.S. was involved. Buckley's body has not been found, and the claim is unconfirmed [LAT 10/4; LT 10/5].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israel's 10-member inner cabinet meets to discuss security situation in occupied territories, resolves to tell Jordan again to remove PLO "bases" recently set up there [LT, BG, FT 9/5]. Inner cabinet approves proposal from Ariel Sharon that the authorities conduct general review of institutions in occupied territories that are supportive of the PLO [FJ 9/6]. Israeli soldiers rebuild wall separating Hebron's main mosque from marketplace, which settlers destroyed after 9/3 stabbing of two soldiers [GD 9/5]. MKs Yossi Sarid and Dedi Zucker of the Citizen's Rights Movement present document to Police Min. Haim Bar-Lev alleging Jumbo construction company made millions of dollars from fraudulent and illegal land sales [JP 9/5]. P.M. Peres sends close aide Avraham Tamir to unannounced ovemight visit with Egyptian Pres. Husni Mubarak to discuss ways of advancing relations between the two nations [CSM 9/6]. Israeli settlers try to squat in Hebron where 2 Israeli soldiers were stabbed 9/3. Army evicts them [CSM 9/6]. Five hundred Ethiopian Jews demonstrate in Jerusalem against rabbinical demands that they undergo symbolic conversion before marrying [WP 9/7]. For. Min. Shamir leaves for Japan to try to persuade Japanese leaders to relax their adherence to Arab boycott and increase trade with Israel [JP 9/4].

Other Countries: Operation Independence, a group of 100 international Jewish business leaders wishing to strengthen Israel's economy, sponsors New York meeting of hotel, airline, and tourism groups and prominent Jewish business leaders to discuss ways to increase American tourism to Israel [JTA 9/5].

Military Action

Occupied Palesine/Israel: Several katyusha rockets land in Galilee; no injuries reported. This is 4th katyusha attack on Galilee in recent months [JP 9/5].

Arab World: Israeli jets bomb suspected PLO guerrilla base in Lebanon's Biqa' Valley, 11th such strike inside Lebanon this year [NYT 9/5]. Reports say 6 Palestinians killed and 10 wounded in the attack [CSM 9/6]. Shi'ite and Palestinian militias battle around Burj al-Baraj inah refugee camp south of Beirut in worst fighting since June, when Syrian-sponsored cease-fire ended fierce clashes in 3 Palestinian refugee camps. Latest fighting leaves 10 dead, 27 wounded [NYT, LAT 9/5].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Farmers from Surif and Jib'a villages near Hebron claim settlers have recently prevented them from entering 2,000 dunums of their land planted with olive and other trees [JP 9/4].

Arab World: Yasir Arafat arrives in Cairo for talks with 'Usama al-Baz, Pres. Mubarak's chief political advisor UP 9/5].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli soldier Avraham Sorek, 37, stabbed to death, another soldier seriously wounded by two unidentified men in Hebron's old marketplace. Hebron declared "closed military area"; many arrests reported. Sorek is 15th Israeli killed this year, allegedly by Palestinian guerrillas [NYT, WP, LAT, FT 9/4; LT 9/5].

Arab World: Fighting breaks out between Palestinian and Shi'ite militiamen around Burj al-Barajinah refugee camp in southem Beirut [MG 9/12]. Car bomb explodes at a South Lebanon Army checkpost; Israeli sources say only the driver, Ahmad Husayn Khadr, 24, is killed. Pro-Syrian Lebanese Ba'th party claims responsibility, states 30 SLA militiamen died in attack [WP, NYT, PI 9/4]. Beirut radio states SLA gunners shell 10 villages in retaliation [WP 9/4].

Other Countries: Attacker believed to be linked to Black September organization throws two hand grenades into Greek hotel, injuring 18 British tourists. Woman telephones Greek newspaper threatening Black September will "fill Athens with bombs" unless Greek police release Palestinian arrested 8/31 near Jordanian embassy with suitcase full of weapons [PI 9/4].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli army orders 3 Palestinians deported for "subversive political activity," jails 15 others without charge under administrative detention orders [WP 8/30]. Israeli security authorities are holding an American, an Australian, and 6 Palestinians. The Westerners are accused of transporting Palestinians -said to be a commando squad - to Lebanon, from which the squad allegedly planned to attack Israel [WP 8/30]. Israeli State Prosecutor's Department decides to appeal for tougher sentences for 5 members of Jewish underground [TA 8/30].

Other Countries: First Intemational Christian Zionist Congress ends with appeal to all Jews to emigrate to Israel and to all Christians to give active help to Israel. Final resolutions provide for the creation of a $100 million fund to invest in industrial projects in Israel via a Basel-based company [TA 8/30].

Military Action

Arab World: Rival Druze and Shi'ite militias battle for control of West Beirut; fighting continues along the green line between east and west Beirut; 6 dead and 15 wounded. Christian and Muslim militias exchange 22 kidnap victims [NYT 8/30]. Fighting breaks out in Tripoli between pro-Syrian and Muslim fundamentalist militias [PI 8/30]. The SLA shells Sidon, apparently in revenge for 8/28 suicide car bombing of its checkpoint [PI 8/30]. 

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli military forces destroy homes of 2 suspected members of underground resistance cell allegedly uncovered in the West Bank village of Anabta. A third home is sealed. Military sources claim cell has been active since 1983, men were responsible for 2 shooting incidents involving a military jeep and a bus in which 2 people were wounded [JP 8/25]. Deputy P. M. David Levy and Trade and Industry Minister Ariel Sharon call for capital punishment in cases of politically motivated attacks resulting in murder, and deportation for Palestinians suspected of inciting anti-Israeli violence [PI 8/26]. Israel and Egypt initial agreement to further tourist traffic between the two [JTA 8/26].

Military Action

Arab World: Third katyusha in 48 hours lands inside Galilee panhandle, causing no injuries or damage [JP 8/26]. Artillery barrages break shaky Syrian-sponsored ceasefire in Beirut [PI 8/26].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: A second Palestinian who sold land to Hebron settlers goes into hiding after receiving death threats. Earlier, the land dealer who sold the apartmenthe 7 MKs occupied, Muhammed Yunis Ja'abari, took refuge in Hebron Mosque [JP 8/23].

Arab World: Egyptian Tourism Minister Wajih Shindi, on three-day visit to Israel, assures P. M. Peres restrictions on Egyptian tourists coming to Israel are now cancelled, owing to Israeli withdrawal from Lebanon [JTA 8/23].

Other Countries: Zulu Chief Minister Gatsha Buthelezi says Israeli experts will soon visit Kwa-Zulu, the home of South Africa's 6 million-strong Zulu tribe, to assess possible avenues for Israeli assistance [JP 8/23].

Military Action

Arab World: 21 are reported killed and 50 wounded in fighting as militias battle in Beirut before Syrian-sponsored cease-fire goes into effect [NYT 8/23].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli Cabinet approves Free Trade Agreement with U. S. whereby the two countries will lift trade restrictions on each other's products over next 10 years; it is expected to increase Israel's exports to U.S. by $200 million in the next two years [JTA 8/19]. One-man military disciplinary court rules Brig. Gen. Yitzhak Mordechai not guilty of using excessive violence in the interrogation of 2 Palestinians who hijacked bus in Gaza 12/4/84 [NYT 8/19]. Israeli MKs continue illegal occupation of house in Hebron. Inner Cabinet of senior govemment ministersplits 5-5 on the issue, putting problem back into the hands of the army [LAT 8/19]. Nazareth's annual municipality-sponsored work camp ends after 7,000 volunteers build bypass road and fence for local school [JP 8/18]. Ultra-Orthodox Jewish residents of Mea She'arim shatter windshield of car, try to overtum it and set it afire, and beat the 2 Palestinian occupants, who fled from the scene. Orthodox residents say the incident was in retaliation for previous attacks on members of their community by "secular" youths. Orthodox also stoned a "secular" family living near Mea She'arim. No arrests made [JP 8/18].

Arab World: U.S. special envoy Richard Murphy returns to Washington without meeting with a Jordanian-Palestinian delegation [NYT 8/19].

Military Action

Arab World: Car bombs explode outside a cafe in Druze-controlled quarter and a mosque in Shi'ite-controlled quarter of West Beirut, killing 29 and wounding 82 [NYT 8/20].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Tel Aviv district court agrees to extend remand of 3 Israeli suspects under questioning in land fraud case for another 15 days to allow continuation of investigation [FJ 8/23]. Minister without Portfolio Ezer Weizman says he would be prepared to meet with Chairman Arafat if Arafat were ready to meet with him [JW 8/23].

Arab World: U.S. envoy Murphy makes unexpected return to 'Amman [WP 8/18].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Gasoline bomb is thrown at Israeli military vehicle in the Gaza Strip between Jabalya refugee camp and Beit Lahiya village. No casualties are reported [FJ 8/23].

Arab World: Car bomb with 550 pounds of dynamite explodes outside a crowded supermarket in Christian East Beirut killing 54 and wounding 120. Most victims are women or children out shopping. No one claims responsibility [NYT, WP 8/18, DT 8/19].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Four houses in 'Ain Beit al-Ma' refugee camp near Nablus are sealed. Israeli spokesman says houses belong to families of youth accused of several recent gasoline bomb attacks [FJ 8/23]. Balata refugee camp near Nablus is put under curfew following 8/15 shooting of the mukhtar. Residents are subjected to 48 hours of continuous search, harassment, and interrogation [FJ 8/23]. Foreign Min. Shamir, speaking at a public meeting in Ganei Tikva, says prosecution of individuals involved in fraudulent land deals in the occupied territories should not be allowed to challenge entire settlement process [JP 8/18]. Jewish Week reports 70,000 Palestinians from the occupied territories work inside the green line and as many as 50,000 of them sleep inside the green line without proper authorization from the labor exchanges, according to testimony presented to Knesset Interior Committee [JW 8/16]. The Washington Post reports Egyptian tour groups have started visiting Israel; Egyptian businessmen are being granted import licenses for Israeli goods for the first time since 1982 [WP 8/17]. Honduras announces it will send resident ambassador to Israel. Israel is reported to be planning aid to Honduras. Israeli officials state Honduras has not asked for military aid [JWP 8/16].

Arab World: The Economist reports on conditions in Sabra, Shatila, and Burj al-Barajinah, as observed by the British charity group Medical Aid for Palestinians, following the siege: of 70,000 original inhabitants of the camps, nearly 18,000 have fled to makeshift shelters in other parts of Beirut; 14,000 have moved to southern Lebanon; 1,500 were captured; Palestinians inside the camps have buried 638, mostly civilians; Gaza Hospital was bumed; there are only 9 Palestinian doctors and less than 20 foreign medical assistants left; water and food are being let through, but there is no protection for the Palestinians [EC 8/16]. U.S. special envoy Richard Murphy arrives in Egypt to confer with President Husni Mubarak on latest attempts to revive stalled Middle East peace negotiations [LAT, NYT 8/17].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Hand grenade is thrown at military car parked next to city hospital in Ramallah. Curfew is imposed, several youths are arrested [FJ 8/23].

Arab World: Fighting in Beirut spreads from southern Beirut to engulf the whole city; 19 killed and 82 wounded [NYT 8/17]. 

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: U.S.envoy Richard Murphy arrives in Israel without having met with Palestinian delegation; briefs Israeli leaders on his discussions with King Hussein [NYT 8/16]. Three MKs from Tehiya party-Geula Cohen, Eliezer Waldman, and Gershon Shafat-lock themselves inside empty apartment in central Hebron; say they will remain until Cabinet discusses question of expanding Israeli presence in Hebron. Their action follows two previous attempts by Kiryat Arba settlers to occupy same apartment [JTA 8/16]. Al-Tali'a weekly reports Jordanian authorities have demanded dismissal of George Hazboun as secretary of Union of Public Institutions Workers in Bethlehem as precondition for release of funds to the union. Palestinian unionists denounce the demand as blatant interference in union affairs [FJ 8/16]. The Israeli Central Bureau of Statistics announces July's inflation rate, 27.5 percent, arecord level for a single month [FT 8/16].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Qalqilya is declared closed military zone following ambush of Israeli bus. Area was searched and a number of arrests made [FJ 8/23]. Land mine explodes as Israeli car passes on its way to Kiryat Arba; windshield is shattered [FJ 8/23]. Israeli soldiers surround group of farmers from Sakhnin village, fire guns over their heads, and beat them. Two children and 3 women are injured [FJ 8/23].

Arab World: Suicide car bomber kills himself and a SLA militiaman when he tries to ram SLA post on the edge of security zone. The Syrian Arab Ba'th party claims responsibility [LT 8/16]. Fighting continues in Beirut, killing 10. Shells strike presidential palace [NYT 8/16]. 

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Reagan administration assures Israel it will not engage in "indirect negotiations or prenegotiations" with proposed Jordanian-Palestinian delegation [LAT 8/14]. Rabbi Meir Kahane is prevented from speaking at a rally in downtown Jerusalem. Hundreds, including members of the Committee Against Racism, gather to heckle; Kahane forced to leave after half an hour [JTA 8/16]. Israel unveils first locally produced hydrofoil missile boat; states it will be used to prevent infiltration from the sea [JC 8/14].

Arab World: U.S. envoy Richard Murphy meets with King Hussein [JTA 8/15]. Financial Times reports Jordan will purchase electronic warfare equipment and other high technology items from a list of British defense supplies through a loan backed by the British government [FT 8/14]. Jordan TV reports that missing Israeli soldier Zecharia Baumel is being held in Damascus by the DFLP [JTA 8/16].

Military Action

Arab World: Car packed with 400 pounds of nail-studded TNT explodes in Christian East Beirut, killing 15 and wounding 120. No group claims responsibility [NYT, MG 8/15].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli military authorities state they will reject the recommendation of the military review board to drop deportation proceedings against Khalil Abu Ziad, will oppose his appeal in the civil courts [WP 8/13]. Hanna Siniora, al-Fajr Arabic daily newspaper editor, leaves for 'Amman, raising speculation he will meet there 8/20 with U.S. Asst. Sec. of State Richard Murphy [JP 8/13]. Military authorities lift the three-day curfew imposed on Hebron following 8/10 stabbing of a settler [JP 8/13]. Moshe Rivlin, chairman of the Jewish National Fund, states the Galilee is top priority [JTA 8/13].

Other Countries: Rep. George O'Brien (R-Ill.) and U.S. Ambassador William Eagleton meet Syrian President Hafiz Asad for 40 minutes reportedly to discuss 7 Americans being held hostage in Lebanon; Asad denies knowing who is holding the 7 or where they are being held, "condemns" the kidnappings, and says he will work for their release [CT 8/13, 8/17].

Military Action

Arab World: Fighting continues along Beirut's green line, killing at least 16 and wounding 75. Muslim leaders demand resignation of Amin Jumayyil [NYT 8/13].

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: Daily World reports Palestinian Communist party has denounced the moves to form joint Palestinian-Jordanian delegation to negotiate with the Israelis; sees it as effort to undermine principles of the PLO and the goal of an independent national state [DW 8/10]. The "Judea and Samaria" Settlement Council, dominated by Gush Emunim, announces boycott of Kiryat Arba because of its discrimination against Palestinians [JP 8/11]. Kiryat Arba town council cancels clause in its coalition agreement. Move opens the way for town council to receive funds blocked by the Knesset finance committee on grounds the clause violated the law [JP 8/11]. Jerusalem Magistrates Court imposes three-month suspended sentence and IS 200,000 fine on Rabbi Moshe Levinger for striking a 6-year-old boy in Hebron last year [JWP 8/11].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Kiryat Arba settler Ya'acov Reiter, 46, is stabbed in Hebron's marketplace; his condition is reported to be satisfactory. Curfew is imposed on Hebron, with house-to-house searches conducted for the two attackers [NYT, WP 8/11].

Arab World: Fighting continues in Beirut, with shells striking presidential palace [BG 8/11].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Al-Fajr English weekly reports 34 faculty and administration of Islamic U. in Gaza, including the president, were forced to leave the country last week after university rejected conditions placed on issuing work permits which would have allowed military interference in university affairs [FJ 8/9]. Israeli Defense Ministry sources state decision to expel 22 ex-prisoners released in the 5/20 prisoner exchange is not act of deportation. The 22 are part of group of 31 prisoners allowed to stay in occupied territories pending determination of right of residency: 22 have been found to be non-resident [JP 8/11]. The Jewish-Arab Committee for Jaffa begins a week-long work camp to improve conditions in the Palestinian sector of Jaffa, which residents claim municipality wants to tum into fashionable Israeli neighborhood [JP 8/7].

Arab World: Arab summit in Casablanca ends by "noting" the joint Palestinian-Jordanian accord outlining a joint effort for negotiations with Israel; does not endorse the accord [WP, NYT 8/10]. No agreement is reached on issue of recent attacks on Palestinian camps in Beirut [LAT 8/10].

Military Action

Arab World: Fighting breaks out along the green line separating east and west Beirut, killing 6 [NYT 8/10].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli Cabinet approves series of harsh security measures in the occupied territories, capital punishment not among them. Measures include deportation of "persons who constitute a security risk," indefinite "administrative detention" without charges for Palestinians suspected of security offenses, an increase in prison capacity in the West Bank, and closing Palestinian newspapers that violate censorship regulations [LAT 8/5]. Forty-three Palestinian local councils in Israel and their employees hold rally outside Israeli prime minister's office to protest government failure to provide promised funds to alleviate their financial difficulties. They demand budgets equal to those of Israeli local councils. The 43 councils have an accumulated debt of $10 million; some have not been able to pay employees for 3 months [FJ 8/2, 8/9]. Public opinion poll by Pori Research Institute published in Ha'Aretz shows 10.6 percent of those who voted for Likud in last Knesset elections would now vote for Kach. Another poll by the Modi'in Ezrachi Institute shows Kahane would increase his Knesset seats to 5 if elections were held now [JTA 8/5].

Arab World:The Sunday Times reports testimony of British doctor on conditions in the 3 Beirut refugee camps besieged 2 months ago. According to Dr. Swee Chai Ang, over 1,500 Palestinians are missing, feared to have been kidnapped or killed. Palestinians are still being killed, although war of the camps technically ended in June and the camps of Sabra, Shatila, and Burj al-Barajinah are now protected by Lebanese army and internal security forces [LT 8/4]. Libya, which had threatened toboycott Arab summit, sends senior official [WSJ 8/5].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Petrol bomb hurled at a border police patrol outside 'Ain Beit al-Ma', near Nablus injures 2 policemen. Curfew is imposed [JP 8/5]. Another petrol bomb incident is reported in Azzariya, near Jerusalem; no injuries reported [JP 8/6]. 

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli army announces arrest of 3 West Bankers in alleged kidnap-slaying of two Afula teachers. The three, aged 17-19, are arrested at their homes in the village of Arabbuna, near Jenin. Homes of their families are demolished. Arabbuna is placed under curfew [WP 7/29]. Kach movement members along with Temple Mount Faithful group attempt to enter al-Aqsa Mosque compound to pray. Police refuse to allow Kach members in, allow Temple Mount Faithful in on condition they not pray. One man prays near the Dome of the Rock and is forcibly expelled [FJ 8/2]. Israeli newspaper Ha'Aretz finds 70 percent of Israelis favor death penalty for those convicted of politically motivated killings. Minister without Portfolio Moshe Arens, Foreign Minister Shamir, and Deputy Prime Minister David Levy also favor death penalty for such killings [LAT 7/29]. Two Afula teachers are buried; 1,000 extra police and border guards are mobilized to keep the peace. Three police are injured by angry protesters at the funeral [LAT 7/29].

Arab World: Walid Jumblatt and Nabih Birri announce new pact of cooperation called the "National Front," ending 3- month feud; vow to support each other if fighting erupts with pro-Arafat Palestinian factions [CT, MG 7/29]. Artillery and sniper fire break out between East and West Beirut. Car bomb explodes in Shi'ite suburb of Beirut, injuring three [MG 7/29]. King Hussein is first Arab leader to confirm attendence at the upcoming Arab summit meeting in Casablanca [CT 7/29]. A high-level Palestinian delegation led by Faruq al-Qaddumis reported to have arrived in Tripoli, Libya [JP 7/29].

Other Countries: Manila newspaper Bulletin Today reports Israelis are giving military training to young Filipinos on Palawan Island [JP 7/29].

Military Action

Arab World: Two SLA soldiers are killed and 8 taken prisoner in dawn attack by Amal in security zone [LT 7/29].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israel approves establishment of Arab bank in West Bank [JTA 6/17]. Israeli government abandons Mediterranean Sea-Dead Sea Canal hydropower project [JC 6/18].

Military Action

Arab World: In Beirut several hostages taken off TWA plane to unknown location(s) in Beirut [NYT 6/18]. Syrian-mediated cease-fire goes into effect between Palestine National Salvation Front and Lebanese Shi'a in southern Lebanon [WP 6/23]. Paramilitary police will collect heavy and medium weapons and supervise withdrawal of gunmen from trouble spots [BG 6/23). 

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Estimated 50,000 attend Gush Emunim demonstration calling for death penalty for Palestinians who commit guerrilla operations against Israelis [FJ 6/21]. Israeli government says it's willing to consider request from U.S. government to free Shi'ite prisoners held in Israel to end TWA hijack crisis; will not act independently [WP 6/17]. Jewish Telegraphic Agency reports 6,000 Israelis settled in West Bank, 1,600 in Golan Heights and Galilee in 1984.

Military Action

Arab World: TWA hijackers release 3 more passengers, plane takes off for Beirut [NYT 6/171. Aircraft carrier U.S.S. Nimitz sent to Lebanese coast [WP 6/17]; anti-terrorist Delta Force squad sent to carrier U.S.S. Enterprise in Eastern Mediterranean [LT 6/17], but U.S. reluctant to use military force to end hostage crisis [WP 6/17].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israel Radio and TV broadcast code words alerting thousands of military reservists to units as part of a call-up exercise to test mobilization procedures [FT 6/14]. Israeli Central Bureau of Statistics reports inflation rose by 6.8 percent in May [FT 6/15].

Arab World: Talks continue in Aden, South Yemen, between PFLP, DFLP, and Fateh to achieve rapprochement [FJ 6/14]. Three Lebanese Shi'a hijack TWA airliner in Athens, order it to Beirut, Algiers, then Beirut, Hijackers' demands include freeing of 766 Lebanese and Palestinian prisoners held by Israel [NYT 6/15]. U.S. antiterrorist Delta Force squad sent to aircraft carrier U. S. S. Enterprise in eastern Mediterranean [LT 6/17].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: P. M. Peres opposes "preliminary talks" between U.S. and joint Jordanian-Palestinian delegation [JP 6/10]. Eleven Palestinian women political prisoners at Neve Tertza prison near Ramleh begin work strike to protest decision to integrate them with criminal prisoners [FJ 6/14]. Women punished by being held in cells 23 hours a day. Israeli military officials announce that starting 6/10 no joumalists will be permitted to enter southern Lebanon from Israel [WP 6/10]. IDF declare Hebron village of Raq'ah closed military area; impose curfew after 6/4 grenade attack on military vehicle [FJ 6/14].

Arab World: At urging of PLO Chairman Arafat, Arab League meets in Tunis to discuss three-week-old crisis [NYT 6/10]; declines to conduct inquiry into massacres of Palestinians in camps [LT 6/10]. Syrian-sponsored peace talks are deadlocked: Palestinians refuse to surrender arms to Amal [LAT 6/10].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Petrol bomb is thrown into Israeli bus in Nablus, West Bank; no injuries. Tourist bus stoned near Hebron. Shots fired at IDF truck in Gaza [JP 6/10].

Arab World: Palestinian fighters in Druzec-ontrolled hills east of Beirut bombard Shi'ite militia attacking three Palestinian camps [NYT 6/10].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli health officials confiscate and destroy Arab-produced "Jneidi" brand dairy productsold in East Jerusalem saying producers did not have permits and products "may be hazardous to health" [FJ 6/14].

Arab World: PLO says 700 Palestinians were arrested in Syria for protesting violence in Lebanese camps. At least 30 killed at Sabra, still under seige. Shi'a bulldoze camp buildings. In Beirut, 3 Palestinian factions issue joint appeal for unity: PFLP, Fateh, and Palestine Communist Party.

Other Countries: U.S. Senators Edward Kennedy (D-Mass.) and John Heinz (R-Penn.) introduce nonbinding resolution (with 69 backers) opposing arms sales to Jordan until Jordan opens direct negotiations with Israel. Reagan administration calls measure "a serious mistake." U.S. wants to provide Jordan with $300 million in military credits to allow it to buy 54 F-20 fighter planes and two advanced anti-aircraft defense systems. Agreement was made in 1981. U.S. sees Jordan threatened by Syria.

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: PM Peres rejects King Hussein's 5/29 call for intl. conference on Middle East peace; US State Dept. asserts US has "major difficulties" with concept of such a conference [NYT, WP 5/31]. Confessed Jewish underground defendant Menachem Neuberger sentenced to 22-mo. prison term [NYT 5/31].

Arab World: In Damascus, Pres. Assad confers with Pres. Gemayel on Beirut fighting [NYT 5/31].

Military Action

Arab World: Action in Lebanon: fighting in Sabra, Shatila camps sporadic; heavier combat rages near Burj al-Barajneh between Shi'ite, Palestinian fighters [NYT 5/31].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Nationalist Palestinian organizations call for general strike to protest Shi'ite attacks on Beirut camps [JP 5/30]. Court releases convicted Jewish underground defendant Ze'ev Friedman after serving 13 mos. detention during trial; leniency shown because Friedman suffers from a"severe illness" [JTA 5/31]. Knesset defeats motions for inquiry into Lebanon war [NYT 5/30]. IDF releases 249 ex-Ansar prisoners held in Israel [WP 5/30].

Arab World: In Tunis, PLO Central Comm. approves joint Palestinian-Jordanian peace efforts aimed at creating independent Palestinian state in confederation with Jordan [WP, PI, WSJ 5/30].

Other Countries: In Washington, King Hussein states PLO, Jordan in agreement on holding negotiations with Israel in context of intl. conference; asserts PLO participation will be on basis of UN Sec. Council resolutions 242, 338 [NYT 5/30, LM 5/31].

Military Action

Arab World: Fighting continues in Beirut between Shi'ite, Palestinian forces [NYT 5/31]. 

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Fearing more factional confrontations, Al-Najah U. administration closes campus for 2 days [JP 5/29].

Arab World: In Tunis, PLO Central Comm. affirms Palestinians' right to defend themselves in Beirut camps [LM 5/30].

Other Countries: King Hussein arrives in Washington for talks with US officials [NYT 5/29].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Carrying weapons, settlers enter Deir al-Hatab, demand expulsion of Samir Salah Yusuf Husayn (former prisonereleased 5/20) [TS 5/29].

Arab World: Palestinian fighters mount counterattack from Sabra camp, Beirut, against besieging Amal, Lebanese Army's 6th Brigade troops; 20 Shi'ites killed [NYT 5/29].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Several thousand protesters demonstrate for and against clemency for Jewish underground defendants [JP 5/28]. Settlers post "wanted" posters depicting some of former prisoners released 5/20 in Hebron, Nablus [JP 5/28].

Arab World: In Tunis, Chmn. Arafat claims Amal, Lebanese Army's 6th Brigade troops massacred 60 Palestinian civilians on 5/26 in Sabra camp, Beirut [LT, MG 5/28].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Gasoline bombs thrown at Israeli bus near Dura; no injuries. 2nd bus stoned near Am'ari camp [JP 5/28].

Arab World: Continued heavy fighting between Shi'ite, Palestinian forces in Beirut halts Red Cross attempt to evacuate wounded in camps; at least 8 killed, 35 wounded [NYT, LAT 5/28]. 5 IDF troops wounded by resistance action in Majdal Salim area, S. Lebanon [JP 5/28].