The Palestine Chronology

Arafat goes to Amman to brief Crown Prince Hassan on the peace process. Hassan later receives a delegation fr. the Arab Democratic Party of Israel. (al-Ra'i, RJ 8/31 in WNC 9/1; JTV 8/31 in WNC 9/2)

Bipartisan Senate comm. report on Gulf War Syndrome questions government assertion that exposure to nerve gas sickened U.S. soldiers who fought in Iraq; concludes that evidence is insufficient in all but 1 case to prove troops were exposed to any chemical agents. (WP 9/1; WT 9/2)

Amal attacks 3 IDF posts in s. Lebanon, wounding 5 soldiers. (RL, VOL 8/31 in WNC 9/1)

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

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

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

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

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

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

PA-Israeli talks resume btwn. Netanyahu atty. Molho, PA Local Government M Erakat. Despite the lack of new ideas, the PA does not call a halt to talks. (CSM, MM 8/3; RE 8/3, AFP 8/4 in WNC 8/7; IGPO, MM, NYT 8/4)

In Amman, Crown Prince Hassan receives Israeli MK Yossi Sarid for talks on the peace process. (Petra-JNA 8/4 in WNC 8/6)

In Washington, Labor Chmn. Barak, MKs Yossi Beilin, Shlomo Ben-Ami, Ephraim Sneh (who are on a 5-day U.S. tour) meet with 12 AIPAC officials. The 4 men criticize AIPAC's recent lobbying efforts, such as the letter signed by 81 senators to Pres. Clinton, saying that AIPAC is "looking for battles at the expense of Israeli security." Netanyahu calls the U.S. trip "subversive." (CSM, MM 8/3; IGPO, MM 8/4; WJW 8/6, 8/13; JP 8/15)

Palestinian archaeologists working on the 1st dig in the PA self-rule areas uncover remains of Canaanite homes they believe date fr. around 3000 B.C.. (WT 8/5)

IDF demolishes reconstructed section Palestinian home in Anata that was 1st knocked down 7/9. (LAW 8/3)

Off the coast of Tyre, Israeli naval forces seize a Lebanese fishing boat, arrest 2 fishermen. (RL 8/3 in WNC 8/7)

In Tel Aviv, PA Local Government M Erakat, Israeli cabinet secy. Nave, atty. Molho discuss FRD issue. Separately, PA negotiator Abbas, Israeli Public Security M Kahalani agree to resume weekly meetings on outstanding Oslo II issues. (PR 7/31)

EU special envoy Moratinos arrives in Lebanon fr. Syria for talks with Pres. Hrawi, Speaker Birri on the peace process; discusses international summit proposal. Moratinos then heads to Amman to meet with Crown Prince Hassan. (VOL 7/28 in WNC 7/29; JTV 7/29 in WNC 8/6)

Jordan's King Hussein releases statement fr. the Mayo Clinic, saying that doctors have confirmed that he has lymphoma type B, which is treatable. (JTV 7/28 in WNC 7/29; MM 8/3)

In Amman, Jordan, Saudi Arabia discuss expanding security cooperation. (RJ 7/28 in WNC 7/30)

IDF demolishes Palestinian home in Rafat that allegedly was built without a permit. (WT 7/29)

In s. Lebanon, an SLA convoy triggers a roadside bomb, killing 1 SLA mbr. (VOL 7/28 in WNC 7/29)

Despite 7 phone appeals by Israeli DM Mordechai, U.S. rejects Israel's request for new round of American mediation. (CSM, MM, NYT, WP, WT 7/23; MEI 7/31)

PA negotiator Abbas goes to Amman to meet with Crown Prince Hassan, who offers to host a round of negotiations. (JTV 7/22 in WNC 7/24; MM, NYT, WT 7/23)

Netanyahu spokesman David Bar-Ilan says that Israel feels that "the Americans now realize that we've gone a very long distance to make [an FRD agmt.] doable." Similarly, CPMAJO head Malcolm Hoenlein describes the tense days in 5/98 following Secy. Albright's 5/4 issuance of a deadline for Israel to accept the U.S. FRD proposal as "a short period of time," now passed. (WP 7/23)

Knesset passes (78-31, with 1 abstention) preliminary reading of a bill that would require an absolute Knesset majority of 61 MKs, a public referendum majority to approve any territorial concessions on, changes in the status of the Golan Heights. 11 MKs voting for the measure are Labor mbrs. Bill must pass 3 more readings before it becomes law. (MM 7/23; Tishrin 7/25 in WNC 7/30; JP 8/1)

Iran successfully tests medium-range missile that could hit all of Israel and Saudi Arabia, most of Turkey. (NYT, WP, WT 7/23; CSM, MM, NYT, WT 7/24; NYT, WP 7/25; MM, WP 7/30; MEI, MM 7/31; JP 8/1; MM 8/3, 8/4)

Yemeni troops attempt to secure control of the disputed island of Duwayma in the Red Sea but fail to oust the Saudi Arabian troops, leaving both countries with a military presence on the island. (MM, WP 7/23; MM 7/24) (see 7/19)

PA, Israeli teams continue negotiations on outstanding Oslo II issues at Jewish settlement in the West Bank, make little progress. (MM 7/20; ITV 7/20 in WNC 7/23; MM, WP 7/21; WJW 7/23; PR 7/24)

In Gaza, EU special envoy Moratinos meets with Arafat, PA Planning M Shaath. (WJW 7/23)

Jordan, Israel expand joint airport agmt. (Globes [Internet] 7/20 in WNC 7/21; JT 7/21 in WNC 7/23)

Joint Jordanian-Palestinian economic comm. convenes in Amman. (JT 7/21 in WNC 7/23; al-Ra'i 7/21 in WNC 7/24)

In Sidon, s. Lebanon, the Armed Struggle Command, the Palestinian police force responsible for security in the refugee camps, hands over to Lebanese authorities Ahmad al-Masri, a Fatah lieutenant who is suspected of being part of a pro-Israel spy ring. Lebanese officials have asked that a 2d Fatah lieutenant, Khalid al-Qonn, also be turned in. (RL 7/21 in WNC 7/23; WT 7/22) (see 7/19)

In Amman, King Hussein discusses peace process with Labor Chmn. Barak. The king then leaves for the U.S. for an irregular medical checkup to treat a fever he has been suffering for almost 2 wks. (IDF Radio, JTV, RJ 7/14 in WNC 7/15; JTV 7/14, JT 7/15 in WNC 7/16)

Zalman Shoval replaces Eliahu Ben-Elissar as Israeli amb. to the U.S. (IDF Radio 7/17 in WNC 7/20; WJW 8/6)

Lawyers for Nahum Manbar, an Israeli convicted of selling poisonous gas material to Iran, seeks to have his case declared a mistrial after learning that PM Netanyahu phoned the presiding judge during the proceedings to demand a harsh sentence for Manbar. (MM 7/14; WT 7/15) (see 6/17)

PA State Security Court (SSC) sentences PSF agent Fahmi al-Tawil to death for the murder of another PSF officer, Hamdi al-Krajha. The SSC is outside the PA civilian, military court system; frequently holds secret trials, without legal representation. (LAW 7/15)

After 2 days of high-level talks in Damascus, Iraq, Syria sign oil pipeline agmt. (WT 7/13, Iraqi News Agency 7/14 in WNC 7/15; MM 7/15; al-Quds al-Arabi 7/15 in WNC 7/16)

PC grants Arafat's request to give him until 7/25 to appoint a new cabinet. (WT 7/15; PR 7/17) (see 6/24)

State Dept. announces that despite fact that gaps on FRD have not narrowed, senior Israeli, PA officials have agreed to meet soon face to face for the 1st time in mos. to renew peace talks. Washington will not host the talks, and Secy. Albright is not optimistic about the outcome. (MM, USIS Washington File, WP, WT 7/14; al-Akhbar, YA 7/14 in WNC 7/15; WJW 7/16; PR 7/17)

King Hussein discusses peace process with fmr. Israeli PM Shimon Peres, who is in Amman to attend an international leadership conference. (RJ 7/13, JT 7/14 in WNC 7/15)

UNSC issues nonbinding statement urging Israel to not implement the plan or take any other steps which would prejudice the outcome of the peace process. (MM, NYT, WT 7/14; MENA 7/14 in WNC 7/15; WT 7/15; IRNA 7/15 in WNC 7/16; al-Ba`th 7/15 in WNC 7/20; PR 7/17; JP 7/25) (see 6/30)

A bomb explodes 100 feet from Orient House in East Jerusalem, slightly injuring 1 Palestinian. No one claims responsibility, although Jewish extremists are suspected. (IDF Radio 7/13 in WNC 7/15; WP 7/14; PR 7/17)

 In s. Lebanon, 1 Lebanese civilian, 2 UNIFIL soldiers are injured by IDF shelling. (RL 7/13, 7/14 in WNC 7/15)

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

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

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

Israeli, U.S. officials say that they expect a conclusion to FRD negotiations by the end of the mo. Secy. Albright has spoken with PM Netanyahu 7 times in the past wk.; some conversations have been "heated." (NYT 7/12)

Egyptian FM Musa arrives in Washington for 4 days of high-level talks with the U.S. on bilateral relations, the peace process, including possible reduction in aid to Egypt. (RE, SA 7/10 in WNC 7/13; MENA, VOA 7/11, RE 7/12 in WNC 7/14; al-Riyad 7/12 in WNC 7/16; MM, WT 7/13; al-Ahram 7/14 in WNC 7/15; WP 7/15; WT 7/16; MEI 7/17)

In Amman, 2 days of elections for the Muslim Brotherhood's 45-mbr. Shura Council end. Preliminary data suggests that traditional balance of power in the movement will be maintained despite solidification of a new centrist grouping. (JT 7/11, al-Aswaq, al-Dustur 7/12 in WNC 7/14; JT 7/14 in WNC 7/15; MM 7/15; JT, SA 7/25 in WNC 7/28; al-Ra'i 8/3 in WNC 8/6; MM 8/6)

At special session, PC approves the 1998 budget (37-22, with 6 abstentions), notes that budget deficit to day is still $36 m. (PR 7/3; JP 7/11)

UNSC hold day-long debate (42 reps. speak) on a resolution condemning Israel's recent plan to extend Jerusalem's municipal boundaries. U.S. Amb. to the UN Bill Richardson calls plan "unhelpful." (WT 6/30; MM, NYT, WT 7/1; al-Quds, RJ, SANA 7/1 in WNC 7/2; Petra-JNA, al-Quds, SANA 7/1 in WNC 7/6)

In Bethlehem, the PA, Vatican hold preliminary talks on establishing official status for the activities of the Roman Catholic church in the PA self-rule areas. (JT 7/1)

In an escalating row, PM Netanyahu accuses Pres. Weizman of "siding with the Arabs" on the peace process. Weizman says that Netanyahu is "cut off from reality," has deceived him repeatedly over peacemaking with the PA. (MM 6/30; YA 6/30 in WNC 7/1; ITV 6/30 in WNC 7/2; WP, WT 7/1) (see 6/29)

Israel takes delivery of the 1st of 3 German submarines capable of carrying nuclear-armed cruise missiles, which will make its nuclear arms less vulnerable to preemptive strike. Israel ordered the subs fr. Germany after failing to find a U.S. firm that would build what it wanted. Following disclosure that German companies supplied material to Iraq's chemical weapons program, Germany agrees to pay for 2 of the 3 subs, which are the most technically advanced of their kind in the world. (WT 7/1; JT 7/4 in WNC 7/7; WT 7/5; JP, WT 7/11; Die Welt 7/11 in WNC 7/15; JP 7/18)

U.S. fires on Iraqi radar station in s. Iraq after it locks radar on a British plane patrolling the southern no-fly zone. The missile misses the station, hits a nearby reservoir. This is the 1st time since 11/96 that Iraq threatened to shoot at an allied plane. (MM 6/30; CSM, MM, NYT, WT 7/1; WT 7/2)

Yemen's official news agency reports that 34 persons have been killed, 102 injured in violence that has been ongoing since the 6/19 decision to raise fuel prices. Nongovernment sources put the casualty figures twice as high. (MM 6/30; WP 7/1; MM 7/9; MEI 7/17) (see 6/20)

Egypt, Iran sign cooperation agmt. on health, cooperation. (IRNA 6/30 in WNC 7/2)9 jul

In Amman, Iran, Jordan hold talks on expanding trade cooperation, agree to set up joint venture comm. in Amman. (IRNA 6/30 in WNC 7/2)

After wks. of debate, PM Netanyahu, senior advisers make final decision not to hold a national referendum on the FRD issue, despite polls that found that 62% of the public support such a vote. Netanyahu says that he will decide on holding a referendum only after an FRD agmt. has been reached. (CSM 6/25; ITV 6/25 in WNC 6/29; MM 6/26; ITV 6/28 in WNC 6/30; NYT 6/30)

In Cairo, the Arab League holds an emergency session to discuss Israel's plan for to expand Jerusalem's municipal boundaries, urges EU intervention. (RE 6/15 in WNC 6/16

In Amman, Iran, Jordan discuss expanding bilateral relations. (IRNA 6/25 in WNC 6/26)

Israel airlifts last 60 (of 3,900) Ethiopians of Jewish descent fr. Addis Ababa to Tel Aviv. (WP 6/26)

After 10 mos. of negotiations, Hizballah turns over body of IDF soldier killed in a raid on s. Lebanon 9/5/97. In exchange, Israel returns to Lebanon the bodies of 40 Amal, Hizballah mbrs. (including body of Hizballah leader Shaykh Hassan Nasrallah's son Hadi). (MM, WT 6/25; AFP, RL, RMC 6/25 in WNC 6/26; MM, NYT, WP, WT 6/26; al-Watan al-Arabi 6/26 in WNC 6/29; AFP 6/26 in WNC 6/29; WJW 7/2; MEI 7/3; JP 7/4)

In s. Lebanon, Hizballah detonates a roadside bomb, killing 2 IDF soldiers, wounding 4. (MM 6/25; AFP, VOL 6/25 in WNC 6/26; NYT, WP 6/26)

In a predawn operation carried out with Israeli police protection, Jewish settlers affiliated with Elad take over 5 Palestinian apartments in 2 buildings, a plot of land in the Silwan neighborhood of East Jerusalem, fighting with Palestinians who try to stop them. Israeli police drag away 20 Peace Now mbrs. who arrive to protest the confiscation. (MM 6/8; LAW, NYT, WP, WT 6/9; JT 6/10 in WNC 6/11; PR 6/19, 7/3)

With Mayor Olmert's permission, Ateret Cohanim begins "archaeological dig" at same 2,000-sq.-m. plot of Palestinian land in East Jerusalem that it occupied 5/25. The same settlers evicted 5/26 are allowed back on the disputed site to work as "guards" and dig "volunteers." (WT 6/9; JT 6/10 in WNC 6/11; MM 6/11; JP 6/13; ITV 6/13 in WNC 6/17; LAW 6/16)

Israeli Education Min. Dir. Gen. Ben-Tziyon Dal recommends that the Israeli curriculum be enforced in East Jerusalem schools in order to block the Palestinian education system. (YA 6/8 in WNC 6/10)

Jordan rejects 2d request for Hamas's Shaykh Yasin to visit the kingdom. Fr. Amman, Hamas spokesman Ibrahim Ghawshah says that Iraq also rescinded an invitation to Yasin 4 days after it was extended, giving no explanation. (SA 6/9 in WNC 6/10; SA 6/14 in WNC 6/17) (see 5/25, 5/29)

Results of Lebanon's 3d round of municipal elections show supporters of PM Hariri, Speaker Nabih Birri winning 23 of 24 seats in Beirut. (WT 6/9; RL 6/9 in WNC 6/10; al-Hawadith 6/12 in WNC 7/13)

U.S. Amb. to Israel Edward Walker hosts mtg. at his home btwn. cochairs of the Palestinian-Israeli Steering and Monitoring Comm. (PISMC), which last met 6 wks. ago, to discuss Rafah airport, Qarni industrial estate. (WT 6/8)

In Amman, King Hussein, Israeli DM Mordechai discuss Israeli plans for 2d FRD. (ITV, JTV 6/7 in WNC 6/9; MM 6/15)

Lebanon's Beirut, s. Lebanon districts hold the 3d of 4 rounds of municipal elections. 13 persons are arrested in minor election-related scuffles, but no large-scale violence is reported. (RL 6/7 in WNC 6/9; MM, WP 6/8; AFP 6/8 in WNC 6/9; WT 6/9)

Algeria, Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Libya, Mauritania, Morocco, Tunisia, Syria, the PA, the Arab League hold mtg. in Lebanon to prepare for Euro-Mediterranean meeting next wk. in Italy; also discuss possible Arab summit on the peace process. (SANA 6/1, RL, VOL 6/2 in WNC 6/3; WT 6/2; MM 6/4; al-Jumhuriyya 6/6 in WNC 6/9)

In Amman, Jordan's King Hussein opens 2 days of talks with Saudi Crown Prince Abdullah on possibility of holding an Arab summit. (MM 6/1; al-Aswaq, JTV, MBC, RJ 6/1, AFP, al-Dustur, RJ 6/2 in WNC 6/3; VOA 6/3 in WNC 6/4; al-Ittihad,al-Ra'i 6/3, al-Ra'i 6/5 in WNC 6/8, 6/9; MM 6/12; al-Watan al-Arabi 6/12 in WNC 6/15; MEI 6/19)

U.S. Supreme Court rules (6-3) to send case against AIPAC brought by 6 fmr. government officials back to the Federal Election Comm. (FEC) for a decision based on new election laws. The 6 officials, led by James Akins, claim that AIPAC should be treated legally as a political action comm., meaning its membership lists, donations records would be made public. (WJW 6/4) (see 1/14)

Nr. Hebron, Jewish settlers fr. Kiryat Arba set fire to 2 Palestinian-owned cars. (WT 6/3)

In Amman, EU special envoy Miguel Moratinos discusses peace process with Crown Prince Hassan, PM Majali, FM Anani. (RJ 5/28 in WNC 6/1)

In s. Lebanon, Hizballah ambushes IDF patrol, killing 2 soldiers, wounding 2. In response, SLA detains 10's of civilians fr. villages of Houle, Markaba for questioning on suspicion of "harboring" Hizballah mbrs. (WP, WT 5/29)

PM Netanyahu arrives in China for 3-day visit. (MM 5/26)

In Cairo, Arafat attends Arab League mtg. called to commemorate the 50th anniversary of al-Nakba; calls for Arab summit on the peace process. (MENA, RE 5/26 in WNC 5/27)

Egyptian FM `Amr Musa arrives in Amman for talks with King Hussein on Mubarak's trip to France, possible Arab summit; says Pres. Mubarak is discussing summit idea with other Arab leaders, including Morocco's King Hassan, who arrived in Cairo today for 3-day official visit, and Syria's Pres. Asad. (MENA, RE, RJ 5/26 in WNC 5/27; MM 5/27, 5/28)

In Tel Aviv, Israel's DM Yitzhak Mordechai meets with Turkey's dep. chief of staff, Gen. Cevik Bir, for talks on the peace process, furthering military cooperation, possible joint arms projects. (WT 5/27)

Saudi Arabia's FM Prince Saud al-Faisal arrives in Iran for 2-day talks on improving bilateral ties. (WT 5/27)

Hamas's Shaykh Yasin visits Syria's Yarmuk refugee camp, where he receives warm welcome fr. Palestinian refuges. (WP 6/11) (see 5/25)

In East Jerusalem, Israeli border policemen clash with Palestinians protesting illegal construction by Jewish settlers (see 5/25). To halt violence, Israel's Jerusalem mayor Ehud Olmert bans the construction in the name of Israel's Antiquities Dept., orders the demolition of the settlers' illegal dwellings. (ITV 5/26 in WNC 5/27; MM, NYT 5/27; WJW 5/28; MM 6/3; MEI 6/5; WT 6/9)

Yemen reports that over the past 2 days, Saudi troops have seized the island of Harim in the Red Sea as part of an attempt to pressure Sana' to make territorial concessions in the 2 countries' border demarcation negotiations, which just resumed last wk. The island is 1 of 3 uninhabited but strategically significant Red Sea islands in dispute. (MM 5/26)

3 SLA mbrs., 3 Hizballah mbrs. are killed in 2 clashes in s. Lebanon. 4 civilians are injured, over 100 flee their homes. (ITV, RL, VOL 5/26 in WNC 5/27)

PM Netanyahu, Arafat adviser Mahmud Abbas meet secretly at Netanyahu's home for brief talks on the peace process before Netanyahu leaves for China. (MM 6/12)

To mark Jerusalem Day, Israel stages largest military parade (13,000 troops) through West Jerusalem since 1973, attended by U.S. congressional delegation. Groups of right-wing Israelis try to enter al-Aqsa Mosque, march on Orient House. IDF bans Palestinian entry into Jerusalem for the day, sparking clashes btwn. IDF, Palestinians in Bethlehem. (al-Dustur, RJ 5/24 in WNC 5/27; WT 5/25; PR 5/29; MEI 6/5)

In Amman, Israeli FMin. Dir. Gen. Eytan Bentzur, Jordanian FM Fayiz Tarawnah discuss Israeli proposal for conditional withdrawal fr. s. Lebanon. Jordan stresses need for Israel to unconditionally implement UN Res. 425. (JT, al-Quds, al-Ra'i 5/25 in WNC 5/27)

In Cairo, Pres. Mubarak briefs Arafat on his trip to France. Arafat then heads to Saudi Arabia to discuss possible Arab summit. (MENA 5/24, RE 5/26 in WNC 5/27)

Syria asks Iran's help in constructing steel mills. Both countries agree to expand cultural, art exchanges to pave way for closer bilateral relations. (IRNA 5/24, 5/25 in WNC 5/27)

In Damascus, Hamas's Shaykh Yasin meets with Pres. Hafiz al-Asad. (AFP, al-Majd 5/25 in WNC 5/27) (see 5/23)

1st Lebanese municipal elections since 1963 begin. Elections are held on 4 consecutive Sundays. (RL 5/25, 5/26 in WNC 5/27; MM 5/26; al-Safir 5/27 in WNC 6/1; WP 6/1; MEI 6/5)

A day after PM Netanyahu leaves the U.S., Labor Chmn. Barak arrives in Washington for talks with U.S. officials on the peace process. (MM 5/22)

EU reps. meet with Israeli Finance M Yaakov Neeman to discuss Israel's practice of exporting goods fr. the occupied territories with "Made in Israel" labels. (JP 5/30; see also AFP [Internet] 5/19)

In Amman, the PA, Jordan open 2 days of talks on the peace process, coordination btwn. the PC and parliament. Separately, PA Planning M Shaath, Jordanian PM `Abd al-Salam al-Majali discuss peace process, U.S. mediation (see 5/19). (JTV 5/20, RJ 5/21 in WNC 5/23; JTV 5/21 in WNC 5/27)

A panel of 9 Israeli High Court judges holds hearing on 6 petitions by Palestinian prisoners challenging the use of torture in interrogations by Israeli security services. Intelligence representatives testify that use of "moderate physical pressure" has prevented anti-Israeli attacks. (WP 5/21; NYT 5/22; LAW 5/23)

Hamas spiritual leader Shaykh Ahmad Yasin arrives in Syria fr. Yemen. (MENA 5/21 in WNC 5/23; MM 5/22; al-Quds al-Arabi 5/22 in WNC 5/27; PR 5/29)

PA Planning M Nabil Shaath arrives in Amman on 4-day visit, holds talks with Jordanian FM Anani on economic cooperation, creation of free trade zone. (RJ 5/19 in WNC 5/23; RJ 5/22 in WNC 5/27)

PA Elections Appeals Court cancels the Gaza by-election set for 5/29 to fill Haidar `Abd al-Shafi's seat on the Palestinian Council (PC). (PCHR 5/21; PR 5/29)

Israeli DM Yitzhak Mordechai discusses with Russian special envoy Viktor Posuvalyuk Israel's conditional withdrawal proposal for s. Lebanon, Russian military assistance to Iran. Posuvalyuk then heads to Amman for talks with Jordan's Crown Prince Hassan. (IDF Radio, QY, RJ 5/19 in WNC 5/21; JTV 5/19 in WNC 5/27)

The American Israel Public Affairs Comm. (AIPAC) holds rally on Capitol Hill to commemorate Israel's 50th anniversary. Speakers addressing the rally include Senate Majority Leader Trent Lott (R-MS), Senate Minority Leader Tom Daschle (D-SD), House Speaker Newt Gingrich (R-GA), House Minority Leader Dick Gephardt (D-MO). (MM 5/20; Near East Report 6/1)

Kuwait releases last 3 of 13 Jordanian detainees pardoned 4/26. (JTV 5/19 in WNC 5/21) (see 5/13)

Jordanian court pardons opposition leader Laith Shubailat, sentenced 5/12 to 9 mos. in prison for inciting anti-U.S. riots in Ma'an in 2/98, pending withdrawal of his appeal. Shubailat is already free on appeal. (RJ 5/19, JT 5/20 in WNC 5/21)

Roadside bomb explodes in s. Lebanon, killing 2 civilians. SLA, Hizballah blame each other. (RL 5/19 in WNC 5/21)

In the 3d straight day of clashes sparked by Palestinian marches commemorating al-Nakba--the dispossession of the Palestinians as a result of Israel's creation in 1948--the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) wounds 10 Palestinians in Hebron, East Jerusalem. In Amman, 1,500 Jordanian students hold commemorative rally at University of Jordan campus. (NYT, WP, WT 5/17; JT 5/17 in WNC 5/19; PR 5/22)

In Amman, Jordan's King Hussein, PA head Yasir Arafat discuss foundering peace process, latest outbreak of violence. (JTV, RJ 5/16 in WNC 5/19; WP, WT 5/17; al-Bilad 5/20 in WNC 5/21) (see 5/14, 5/15)

In Cairo, Egyptian pres. Husni Mubarak discusses peace process with Jordanian FM Jawad al-Anani, who brings Mubarak a message fr. King Hussein. (JTV, MENA, RJ 5/16, al-Quds 5/17 in WNC 5/19)

In Damascus, Jordan, Syria open 2-day talks on exploiting Yarmuk River waters, joint construction of al-Wahda Dam. (al-Ra'i, RJ 5/17 in WNC 5/19; al-Ra'i 5/19 in WNC 5/21)

Labor Chmn. Ehud Barak visits settlements of Ofra, Beit El, where he promises that settlements will "remain forever." (MEI 6/5)

In s. Lebanon, Amal, Hizballah discuss need to coordinate. (VOL 5/16 in WNC 5/19) (see 5/10)

In the 3d straight day of clashes sparked by Palestinian marches commemorating al-Nakba--the dispossession of the Palestinians as a result of Israel's creation in 1948--the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) wounds 10 Palestinians in Hebron, East Jerusalem. In Amman, 1,500 Jordanian students hold commemorative rally at University of Jordan campus. (NYT, WP, WT 5/17; JT 5/17 in WNC 5/19; PR 5/22)

In Amman, Jordan's King Hussein, PA head Yasir Arafat discuss foundering peace process, latest outbreak of violence. (JTV, RJ 5/16 in WNC 5/19; WP, WT 5/17; al-Bilad 5/20 in WNC 5/21) (see 5/14, 5/15)

In Cairo, Egyptian pres. Husni Mubarak discusses peace process with Jordanian FM Jawad al-Anani, who brings Mubarak a message fr. King Hussein. (JTV, MENA, RJ 5/16, al-Quds 5/17 in WNC 5/19)

In Damascus, Jordan, Syria open 2-day talks on exploiting Yarmuk River waters, joint construction of al-Wahda Dam. (al-Ra'i, RJ 5/17 in WNC 5/19; al-Ra'i 5/19 in WNC 5/21)

Labor Chmn. Ehud Barak visits settlements of Ofra, Beit El, where he promises that settlements will "remain forever." (MEI 6/5)

In s. Lebanon, Amal, Hizballah discuss need to coordinate. (VOL 5/16 in WNC 5/19) (see 5/10)

In hastily scheduled address to the National Press Club, Secy. Albright gives long-planned speech, urging Israel to accept U.S. terms for renewing accelerated final status talks that she calls "balanced, flexible, practical, and reasonable." Albright then heads to Capitol Hill for closed session with congressmen. She also holds hr.-long mtg. with small group of Jewish leaders. (ITV 5/12 in WNC 5/13; MM, NYT, WP, WT 5/13; WJW 5/14)

In Amman, Arafat adviser Abbas briefs PM Majali on peace process given failure to convene 5/11 Washington summit. (RJ 5/12 in WNC 5/13)

Israel for the 1st time names an Arab judge, `Abd al-Rahman Zuabi, to the High Court. (WP 5/13)

Croatian delegation arrives in Israel on 1st official Croatian visit, opens talks on expanding bilateral relations. (HINA [Zagreb] 5/12 in WNC 5/13; HINA 5/13 in WNC 5/14)

UAE announces plans to buy 80 F-16s fr. Lockheed Martin in a deal valued at $7 b. (WP 5/13)

Jordanian military court sentences opposition leader Shubailat to 9 mos. in prison for inciting anti-U.S. riots in Ma'an in 2/98. (RJ 5/12 in WNC 5/13; WP 5/13) (see 4/15)

Hizballah attacks IDF unit in s. Lebanon, wounding 2 soldiers. (WT 5/14)

In 3d mtg. with U.S. envoy Ross, PM Netanyahu presents proposal for an "escrow" arrangement for FRD (see Peace Monitor). After presenting the idea to PA officials, who reject it, Ross returns home, having made no progress. (IDF Radio, ITV 5/10, IDF Radio, Les Echos [Paris] 5/11 in WNC 5/12; WP, WT 5/11; CSM, NYT 5/12)

PM Netanyahu does not raise U.S. FRD proposal, Washington invitation for discussion in weekly cabinet mtg. (WP, WT 5/11) (see 5/6)

DM Mordechai appoints Maj. Gen Shaul Mofaz over Maj. Gen. Matan Vilnai to replace Lt. Gen. Amnon Shahak as IDF chief of staff. Netanyahu openly preferred Vilnai but would not overrule Mordechai's choice. Previous chiefs of staff have all served for 4 yrs., but Shahak informed Mordechai in 7/97 that he did not want to return after his 3d yr. ended in 1/98 because he does not like working with Netanyahu. (MM 5/11)

Jordan's General Intelligence Dept. announces arrest of 7 Jordanians, 1 "Arab national" on charges of carrying out 5 bombing in Jordan over the past 2 mos. (MM 5/11; al-Hadath [Amman] 5/11 in WNC 5/12; JT, al-Ra'i 5/11 in WNC 5/13)

Nr. Tyre in s. Lebanon, physical fight breaks out btwn. Hizballah, Amal mbrs., leaving 5 injured. After mtg. on recent clashes (see 5/8), the 2 groups issue a joint statement saying that the incidents were isolated, nonpolitical; they will turn brawlers over to Lebanese authorities, abide by judicial ruling. (RL 5/10 in WNC 5/12)

U.S. special envoy Ross leaves for Israel to hold last-minute talks with PM Netanyahu on possible "face-saving ideas" that would "redefine a part of the 13%" of the West Bank fr. which the U.S. proposes Israel withdraw, allowing Netanyahu to accept the U.S. FRD plan and come to Washington 5/11. (MM, NYT, WP, WT 5/8) (see 5/6)

Arafat stops in Cairo to brief Mubarak on London talks. (MENA 5/7 in WNC 5/8)

In Amman, PA Local Government M Erakat briefs PM Majali on London talks. (RJ 5/7 in WNC 5/8) (see 5/6)

Urged to do so by the Israel's amb. to the UN Dore Gold, CPMAJO convenes emergency session to vote on whether to issue a public criticism of the Clinton administration. Motion fails by a wide margin. (WP 5/8; YA 5/8 in WNC 5/11; WT 5/9) (see 5/6)

Clinton gives 1st speech to an American Arab organization (the Arab American Institute) by a sitting U.S. pres. (MM, WT 5/8, MM 5/13)

After 2 wks. of negotiations, Moledet leader Ze'evi turns down Netanyahu's invitation to joint the coalition government. (Vesti [Tel Aviv] 5/12 in WNC 5/13; JP 5/16) (see 4/20)

Kuwait frees 6 of 13 Jordanian detainees pardoned 4/26. (JTV 5/7 in WNC 5/11) (see 5/5)

U.S. VP Gore, PM Netanyahu address ceremony in Jerusalem marking Israel's 50th anniversary. Gore also meets with Pres. Weizman, Infrastructures M Sharon. (MM, NYT, WP, WT 4/30; ITV 4/30 in WNC 5/1; CSM, MM 5/1; al-Ba'th [Damascus] 5/1 in WNC 5/12; JP 5/9)

In Beirut, EU special envoy Moratinos discusses Israel's s. Lebanon withdrawal offer with PM Hariri, Speaker Birri; says that EU supports unconditional implementation of UN Res. 425. (RL 4/30 in WNC 5/1)

In Jordan, a bomb explodes underneath a car parked at al-Quds International Hotel parking in the Rashid neighborhood of Amman, causing extensive damage but no casualties. No one claims responsibility. (MENA 4/30 in WNC 5/1; RJ 5/1 in WNC 5/5; RJ 5/10 in WNC 5/13)

Israel 2-day official celebration of its 50th anniversary (by the Jewish calendar) begins. Jubilee officials have banned any reference to the Oslo process during official programs; Pres. Weizman, who is critical of government's handling of peace process, has not been scheduled to speak. IDF places closure on the West Bank, Gaza for the long weekend. (CSM, MM, NYT, WP, WT 4/29; Tishrin 4/29 in WNC 5/6; NYT, WT 4/30; Interfax, Star, Xinhua [Beijing] 4/30 in WNC 5/1; JP 5/2)

Jordanian government bans rally planned by 13 opposition parties to highlight the 50th anniversary of Israel's occupation of Palestinian lands. (JT 4/30 in WNC 5/1; al-Majd [Amman] 5/4 in WNC 5/6; MEI 5/8)

Hamas spiritual leader Shaykh Yasin arrives unexpectedly in Iran. (MM 4/29; IRIB Television 5/2 in WNC 5/6; WT 5/4; MM 5/7; WT 5/13) (Peace Monitor)

Switzerland announces that Israel has paid a $2-m. bail to free Mossad agent arrested for spying 2/19. (WP 4/30; JP 5/9) (see 2/27)

In separate incidents in Amman, unknown assailants place bombs under the car of fmr. Jordanian intelligence chief Muhammad Kilani, outside the home of Senator Jawdat al-Subul. (AFP 4/29, al-Dustur 4/30 in WNC 5/1; MENA 4/30 in WNC 5/5; RJ 5/10 in WNC 5/13)

In s. Lebanon, a Lebanese civilian is seriously wounded by IDF shelling. (VOL 4/29 in WNC 5/1)

In Cairo, Egypt's Pres. Mubarak, PA's Arafat discuss peace process, British PM Blair's tour, upcoming visit by U.S. special envoy Ross. (MENA 4/22 in WNC 4/28)

In Beirut, Speaker Birri briefs Kuwait's National Assembly Speaker Ahmad `Abd al-Aziz al-Sa'dun on Israel's proposal for conditional withdrawal fr. s. Lebanon. (RL 4/22 in WNC 4/28)

Arab League mbrs. sign 1st Arab antiterrorism convention, which exempts armed attacks against foreign occupiers. (WT 4/22; RE 4/23 in WNC 4/28; PR 5/1)

Shaykh Murtada Burujirdi, top candidate for the position of grand spiritual leader of Shi'i Muslims worldwide, is assassinated in Najaf, Iraq. Iraqi officials have previously threatened him. (NYT 4/24; al-Ahd [Beirut] 4/24 in WNC 4/30)

A bomb explodes outside the Jordanian Highway Patrol Directorate in Suwaylih, n. of Amman, causing damage but no injuries. No one claims responsibility. (RJ 5/10 in WNC 5/13)

Yedi'ot Aharonot reports that in an interview with its paper last wk., fmr. CIA officer and convicted Russian mole Aldrich Ames stated that after the Pollard affair was uncovered, the CIA recruited a high-level Israeli to spy for the U.S. A U.S. intelligence source reportedly confirmed the story but said that the agent, who was never detected, was in place long before the Pollard incident, was removed when Pollard was captured. (YA 4/22, 4/24 in WNC 4/27)

An SLA mbr. is injured when a roadside bomb explodes in s. Lebanon. (VOL 4/22 in WNC 4/28)

In Cairo, Syria's Pres. Asad briefs Pres. Mubarak on results of 4/13 Syrian-Lebanese summit in Latakia, discusses holding mini-Arab summit. (ESC Television [Cairo], MENA, RMC, SANA, SATN 4/15 in WNC 4/16; MENA 4/15 in WNC 4/17; MM 4/16; al-Thawra, Tishrin 4/16 in WNC 4/21)

King Hussein sends letter to PM Majali, asking him to prevent media criticism of Arafat, the PA, the peace process; to draft new press law that will "safeguard the interests of the kingdom." (JTV 4/15 in WNC 4/16; al-Ra'i 4/21 in WNC 4/28) (see 1/26)

In Amman, Jordan, Iran discuss expanding cultural, religious relations. (IRNA 4/16 in WNC 4/17)

Israel releases administrative detainees Ahmad Qattamesh (held 5 yrs., 8 mos.), Hassan Fatafteh (held 4 yrs.). Both men are Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine activists. (MM 4/16; PR 4/17; JP 4/25)

Jordan releases opposition leader Shubailat, arrested 2/20 during Ma'an riots. (JT 4/15 in WNC 4/16; MEI 4/24)

In Latakia, Lebanese PM Hariri, Pres. Ilyas Hrawi, Speaker Nabih Birri meet with Syria's Pres. Asad to coordinate action plan against Israel's offer for conditional implementation of UN Res. 425. (RL 4/13 in WNC 4/15; RL 4/14 in WNC 4/16; al-Safir [Beirut] 4/15 in WNC 4/16; MEI 4/24)

In Amman, King Hussein receives Israel's Meretz party chmn. Yossi Sarid, who proposes forming Arab-Israeli group to promote peace process. (JTV 4/13 in WNC 4/16)

Israel detains PSF officer Yahya Qaddus on charges of spying for Syria. (PR 4/17)

PA police arrest more than 12 Hamas supporters who took part in an anti-Israeli rally in Nablus 4/11. (MM 4/14)