The Palestine Chronology

PM Rabin meet Arafat at Erez checkpoint, gives him specific assurances no new settlements will be created on land expropriated without cabinet approval; promises to fence off existing settlements so they will not creep outward; dismisses recent confiscations as needed to build highways for settlers, IDF; says private construction will continue under government monitoring. (RMC, VOP, QY 1/19 in FBIS 1/20; NYT, WP 1/20; JP 1/28)

Multilateral Working Group on Economic Development closes 2-days of talks in Bonn. PA delegation head says little more can be achieved until Israeli-Palestinian bilateral negotiations move forward. (HA 1/20 in FBIS 1/23)

Grand Mufti of Saudi Arabia Shaykh Bin Baz issues explanation of 12/21 fatwa, saying peace with Israel is permissible temporarily, until Muslims gain ability to drive Jews out. (MM 1/19; NYT 1/31; MM 2/14) (see 1/17)

6 PFLP-GC mbrs. killed, 2 IDF soldiers wounded in clash in southern Lebanon. (QPAR, VOL 1/19 in FBIS 1/20; VOL 1/21 in FBIS 1/23; MEI 2/17)

Palestinian-Israeli Supreme Liaison Comm. meets at Erez checkpoint, agrees that Palestinians who visit Gaza fr. abroad may now stay for 7 mos. (as opposed to 3 mos. previously). (QY 1/16 in FBIS 1/17)

Jordanian-Israeli joint comms. on security, transportation, trade, water meet in Jordan to discuss implementation of treaty, following mtg. btwn. King Hussein, PM Rabin 1/13. (JTV 1/15 in FBIS 1/18)

IDF makes 13 air strikes against PFLP-GC camps 10 miles south of Beirut, Lebanon, killing 3 Lebanese, wounding 4, forcing temporary closure of Beirut airport. (IDF Radio, QPAR, VOL 1/15 in FBIS 1/17; MM, NYT, WT 1/16; MEI 1/20)

Jordan, Israel agree to build railroad linking Irbid, Haifa and Aqaba, Elat. EU will help finance construction. (QY 1/15 in FBIS 1/18; MM 1/16)

House Speaker Gingrich, on visit to Israel, says he "strongly favor[s]" moving U.S. embassy fr. Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, says "it's the right of Israel to define its capital, and we as an ally should . . . be responsive." State Dept. rejects idea. (MM 1/16; WT 1/16, 1/17; VOP 1/18 in FBIS 1/18)

PM Rabin orders all construction in o.t. to be suspended for 1 wk., until cabinet can meet to discuss settlements 1/22. (QY 1/15 in FBIS 1/17)

In Safa, West Bank, Palestinians plant 100s of trees to prevent land's confiscation for expansion of Kfar Rut, Maccabbim settlements. Similar plantings are held across West Bank. PA says Israel has confiscated 27 sq. mi. of land since signing of DOP; PM Rabin admits 450 acres have been taken to build bypass roads for settlers. (NYT 1/16; MEI 1/20)

Arafat, PM Rabin meet at Erez checkpoint; agree on recognition of Palestinian passports, release of prisoners, routes linking autonomous areas. Men over 50, women over 35 will begin using safe-passage routes. (MM 1/9; AFP, QY, VOP 1/9 in FBIS 1/9; QY 1/9 in FBIS 1/10; NYT, WP, WT 1/10; CSM 1/12; PR 1/15; MEI 2/3) (see 1/6)

Israeli-PA talks on procedures and mechanisms for elections, expanding self-rule reopen in Cairo. Parties defer discussion on redeployment, review events of previous 8 mtgs. (MM 1/9; MENA 1/9 in FBIS 1/9; CSM, NYT, WP, WT 1/10; RE 1/9, MENA 1/10 in FBIS 1/10; MENA 1/10 in FBIS 1/11)

PA holds conference on settlements in Jericho. Participants, incl. 4 PA mbrs. and Hamas mbrs., call on PA to suspend talks, step up protests, reconsider peace process in light of Israeli settlement violations. (MM 1/9; QY 1/9 in FBIS 1/10; NYT 1/10; Al-Quds 1/10, QY 1/11 in FBIS 1/11; CSM 1/12; PR 1/15)

PA, German officials meet in East Jerusalem to discuss development projects. Israeli FMin. complains it did not receive prior notice of mtg. (QY 1/9 in FBIS 1/10) (see 12/26)

U.S. Defense Secy. Perry receives briefing on Golan fr. IDF, say U.S. anticipates being asked to provide monitors for the area (as opposed to security forces). (MM 1/9; AFP, JP, QY 1/9 in FBIS 1/9; ITV 1/9 in FBIS 1/10; WP, WT 1/10; CSM 1/11; MEI 1/20; JP 1/21)

Poll released by Center for Palestine Research Studies shows that majority of Palestinians favor suspending (31.5%) or completely halting (20.6%) talks with Israel. (MM 1/9)

HA reports Iraq is ready to recognize Israel since Israel has reconciled with PLO, has asked Morocco to mediate; claims Iraqi official Ismat Katani visited senior FMin. official Yitzhak Lior in Israel. Lior admits mtg. took place but says Israeli-Iraqi relations were not discussed. (HA 1/9 in FBIS 1/9; WT 1/10)

Rigged donkey cart explodes in Gaza as bus of Jewish settlers passes. No injuries, no one takes responsibility. (NYT, WT 1/10)

IDF soldiers, Palestinian police exchange gunfire across Gaza border at Erez checkpoint; 2 Palestinian police officers, 2 Palestinian civilians wounded. (MM 1/4; QY 1/4 in FBIS 1/5; NYT, WP, WT 1/5; WP 1/6)

FM Peres tells Knesset Israel is demanding a 4-yr. interim period btwn. implementation of 1st and 2d stages of withdrawal fr. Golan in talks with Syria . (MM 1/5; JP 1/5 in FBIS 1/6; JP 1/14)

Egypt, Jordan, Israel hold 1st tripartite mtg. on regional security in Elat to discuss prevention of cross-border infiltrations. (Ma'ariv 1/11 in FBIS 1/12)

Israeli Housing Min. Dir. Gen. Arye Mizrahi approves expansion of Ma'ale Adumin settlement toward Jerusalem, increase in number of houses fr. 5,000 to 18,000, movement of IDF roadblock marking Green Line so settlement would fall inside Green Line; says decision does not violate any agmts. because government already considers the settlement part of central Israel. (Yedi'ot Aharanot 1/5 in FBIS 1/5)

Lebanese FM Buwayz says idea for sending Palestinian refugees fr. Lebanon to Gaza, Jericho to serve as policemen has been debated for past 3 mos.; says Interior M Michel al-Murr drafted motion after 11/25 events, inviting PA to recruit policemen fr. camps, agreeing to send recruits with any light armor they possess as way of getting armed Palestinians out of country. (AFP 1/4, RL 1/5 in FBIS 1/5; MM 1/6) (see 12/19)

U.S. State Dept. confirms it is conducting investigation into reports Israel illegally sold China military technology. (WP, WT 1/5; HA 1/5 in FBIS 1/5; CSM 1/6; MEI 1/20) (see 1/3)

Israeli undercover agents kill 4 Palestinian supporters of PFLP in West Bank, nr. Ramallah; 1 agent wounded. Israel says men were wanted in attacks on collaborators. (QY 1/4 in FBIS 1/5; MM, NYT, WP, WT 1/5; WJW 1/12)

IDF soldiers shoot, kill 4 Palestinian policemen after crossing into Gaza nr. Erez checkpoint, searching for Palestinians who had fired on their patrol. (QY, VOP 1/3 in FBIS 1/3; MM, WP, WT 1/3; FT, WP 1/4; CSM, MEI 1/6; JP 1/14)

PM Rabin halts construction at Efrat but allows settlers to build 500 units at site closer to center of Efrat. PA denounces decision. (QY, Yedi'ot Aharonot 1/1, ITV, QY, VOP 1/2, QY 1/3 in FBIS 1/3; MM, NYT, WP, WT 1/3; CSM 1/4; WJW 1/5; CSM 1/6; JP 1/14) (see 12/31)

Hamas, West Bank Fateh Higher Comm. call on PA to suspend negotiations with Israel as protest over Israeli settlement activity. (Al-Manar, Al-Quds 1/2 in FBIS 1/5)

Israeli military court convicts Muhammad Salah, Arab American arrested by Israelis 1/31/93, of channeling funds to Hamas, sentences him to 5 yrs. in prison. (QY 1/3 in FBIS 1/3; WP 1/4)

IDF kills 3 Palestinians, wounds 1 in 2 clashes in West Bank; accuses victims of being pro-Hamas. (WP, WT 1/3; NYT 1/5)

Arafat, FM Peres meet at Erez checkpoint to discuss elections, troop withdrawal, implementation of DOP. Both say mtg. was constructive. (QY 12/8 in FBIS 12/8)

Israeli government releases vaguely worded statement saying it will uphold the DOP, but, Israeli cabinet remains divided on troop withdrawal. (QY 12/8 in FBIS 12/9; MM, NYT, WP 12/9; JP 12/17)

Jordanian FMin. initiates contacts with Syrian government in hopes of easing tensions following signing of Jordan-Israel peace treaty. (Al-Akhbar Al-Usbu` 12/8 in FBIS 12/8)

AIPAC announces it has restructured its operations to step up Congressional lobbying out of fear new Republican majority wants to reduce aid to Israel. (WT 12/14; WJW 12/15) (see 12/2)

Israeli Central Command Cmdr. Maj. Gen. Ilan Biran approves confiscation of 3,000 dunums of land to link Ma'ale Adumim settlement to Jerusalem, plans for 1,500 housing units, 10 hotels on site. Says expansion of Giv'at Ze'ev settlement fr. 22,000 to 40,000 dunums to link it with Jerusalem should be approved soon. (Ma'ariv 12/8 in FBIS 12/13; PR 12/24)

King Hussein asks M Ahmad 'Ubaydat, the only Senate mbr. to openly oppose the Jordan-Israel treaty and normalized relations with Israel, to resign. (JTV 12/8 in FBIS 12/8; CSM 12/22) (see 12/5)

1st issue of Hamas's daily Al-Watan is issued in Gaza. Shaykh `Imad al-Faluji, a Hamas leader in Gaza, is editor. (AFP, ITV 12/8 in FBIS 12/9; PR 12/18)

8 SLA soldiers killed in southern Lebanon when Hizballah detonates bomb as SLA patrol passes. (MM 12/9; ITV, RL 12/9 in FBIS 12/9; MEI 1/20)

Suha Tawil, Arafat's wife, announces she is pregnant. (NYT, WP, WT 12/9)

1st round of talks on interim arrangement btwn. Israel, PA ends in Cairo. Sides agree Israel should hand PA control of "packages" of offices in West Bank as funds become available to PA, even before interim stage is completed. 1st to be transfer will be 33 Civil Administration offices. (MENA, QY, VOP 12/7 in FBIS 12/8; HA 12/8 in FBIS 12/9)

U.S. Secy. of State Christopher holds separate talks with Israeli FM Peres, Arafat, briefs them on his mtg. with Syrian Pres. al-Asad. Says he won assurances fr. Peres that Israel would not renege on agmts. made in the DOP. (IDF Radio, RMC, VOP 12/7 in FBIS 12/8; NYT, WP, WT 12/8; MEI 12/16)

Joint Jordanian-Israeli comm. on treaty implementation meets in Amman to discuss duties, dates of mtgs. of various committees. (JTV, RJ 12/7 in FBIS 12/8)

Israeli, PA negotiators meet at Erez checkpoint to discuss building port in Gaza. Israel demands PA present detailed plans for construction at mtg. 12/17. PA says port will cost $60 m.; France, Holland have agreed to help fund construction. (QY 12/7 in FBIS 12/8; PR 12/11)

High-level Jordanian-Palestinian talks are held in Amman in preparation for mtg. of 4-party comm. on repatriation of displaced Palestinians. Parties agree DOP, Human Rights Charter, UN Res. 237 will be legal framework for talks; agree on definition of "displaced Palestinians." (Al-Dustur 12/7 in FBIS 12/7; Al-Aswaq 12/8 in FBIS 12/9)

Cooperative agmt. btwn. Histadrut, Palestinian trade unionists, negotiated for months, collapses in Brussels when Palestinian delegates insist on last-minute inclusion of clause calling for Histadrut to support creation of Palestinian state, division of Jerusalem. (QY 12/7 in FBIS 12/8; Al-Hamishmar 12/13 in FBIS 12/21)

Israeli-Palestinian joint comm. for commodities and transportation crossings concludes 3d mtg. at Erez checkpoint. Progress noted on customs, security, transportation of goods. Agree PA will be responsible for construction of Gaza port point, donor countries will provide financing. (WY 12/5 in FBIS 12/6)

Multilateral Working Group on Economic Development holds follow-up mtg. in Cairo. Representatives fr. Egypt, Jordan, Israel, EU, Japan, U.S., France, the PA agree to form 3 regional councils on finance, trade, tourism to strengthen regional cooperation. (MENA 12/7 in FBIS 12/8)

Egyptian FM Musa meets with Israeli FM Peres in Budapest during Conference on Security and Cooperation in Europe (CSCE), briefs him on Mubarak's talks with al-Asad 12/1. (QY 12/5 in FBIS 12/5)

Pres. Clinton telephones Pres. al-Asad to discuss peace process, Secy. of State Warren Christopher's upcoming trip to region. Later, meets Israeli FM Peres in Budapest, says he does not have good news fr. Syria. (MM 12/5; 12/5 in FBIS 12/6)

FMs of Algeria, Egypt, Israel, Morocco, Tunisia hold "mini-summit" at CSCE conference; agree to form regional security organization similar to CSCE that would meet biannually in Vienna on FM level. (HA 12/6 in FBIS 12/7)

Gen. John Shalikashvili, chmn. of Joint Chiefs of Staff, arrives in Israel for mtg. at Israeli DMin. on possible security arrangements for Golan. (MM, WT 12/6; MM 12/7)

Maj. Gen. Danny Rothschild resigns as Israeli negotiator to talks on elections, is replaced by Brig. Gen. Gadi Zohar. (AFP 12/5 in FBIS 12/5; WT 12/6; JP 12/17) (see 12/3)

Israel grants citizenship to 618 collaborators and their families. (Ma'ariv 12/5 in FBIS 12/7)

Near East Report reports Israel ranks highest in voting coincidence with U.S. in UN for 1994 (93.5%), Arab League states lowest (22.8%). (Near East Report 12/5)

Hariri agrees to stay on as PM of Lebanon after Syrian Pres. al-Asad hosts reconciliation mtg. btwn. Hariri, parliament speaker Nabih Birri. (MM 12/5; MENA 12/5 in FBIS 12/6; WP 12/6; RL 12/9 in FBIS 12/9) (see 12/2)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Early empowerment accord signed by PNA's Shaath, Israel's Rothschild at Erez checkpoint in Gaza; PNA assumes control of schools in Hebron, Bethlehem. (CSM, NYT, WP 8/30; JP 9/3, 9/10) (see 8/24)

Israeli Industry and Trade M Yosi Snir, Dir. of PNA Econ. and Trade Min. Samir Hulaylah announce agmt. for PNA to issue import licenses for food, construction materials, chemicals, electric appliances. (JP 8/29)

Palestinian Economic Council for Development and Reconstruction (PECDAR) mtg. is canceled due to conflict over PM Bhutto's planned trip to Gaza. Arafat says Israeli decision to deny Pakistani delegation entry violates peace agmts. Bhutto postpones visit. (MENA 8/29 in FBIS 8/30; MM, NYT, WP 8/30)

PLO mbr. Salah Salah criticizes Lebanese Refugee Affairs M Junblat's plan for refugee housing as an attempt to resettle Palestinians but PLO Political Dept. head al-Qaddumi praises Junblat's efforts, says PLO leaders in Lebanon should coordinate with the government. (MENA 8/29 in FBIS 8/30) (see 8/24)

Jordan, Israel resume talks on security, water, environment, trade, tourism, energy, civil aviation, communications. (CSM 8/30)

IDF soldier 13th killed in southern Lebanon this yr., 2 others wounded in ambush by Hizballah. (QY 8/30 in FBIS 8/30; MM 8/30)

PLO Chmn. Arafat and Israeli PM Rabin hold 90-minute summit  mtg. at Erez crossing, Gaza Strip.  Israel agrees to open safe passages btwn. Gaza and Jericho, permit 6,000 more Palestinian workers into Israel.  Both sides agree to pursue negotiations on expanding West Bank self-rule.  Israel puts off discussion of Jerusalem, criticizes PLO Political Dept. head Faruq Qaddumi's remarks on attacks on Israelis.  (Qol Yisra'el 8/10 in FBIS 8/11; MM, NYT, WP, WT 8/11)

World Bank announces establishment of field office in Gaza.  (World Bank release 8/10)

Jordan's Crown Prince Hassan meets 98-mbr. United Jewish Appeal delegation in Amman, says Jordan and Israel should coordinate economic policies before 10/94 Casablanca economic conference.  (MM 8/11)

Argentine Pres. Carlos Menem threatens to expel Iranian amb. over Tehran's alleged role in 7/18 bombing of Buenos Aires Jewish center.  Embassy had protested issuing of warrants for arrest of 4 Iranian diplomats in case.  (NYT, WT 8/11)

Senate approves foreign-aid bill 88-12, sending $13.8 b. measure to Pres. Clinton for signature.  Legislation, passed by House 8/4, includes $99 m. "down payment" on Jordanian debt relief, $3 b. in economic and military aid to Israel.  (WP 8/11)

PLO Chmn. Arafat chairs PNA mtg. to discuss 3-point, 100-day master plan, 7/17 Erez crossing riot.  (Jericho VOP 7/23 in FBIS 7/25)

"Partisans of God" claims 7/18, 7/19 Argentina, Panama bombings in statement published in Beirut newspaper.  Group says attacks "will continue wherever Zionism is found until it is crushed and justice rules the world."  Argentine police say same method used in 7/18 bombing, 3/92 bombing of Israeli embassy in Buenos Aires.  (WP 7/24)

IDF announces 7/22 abduction of Hizballah leader Qasim Rihan fr. southern Lebanon.  IDF claims Rihan responsible for attacks on IDF.  (WP, WT 7/24)

Secy of State Christopher meets Syrian Pres. al-Asad in Damascus, returns for U.S., noting "significant gaps" btwn. Israel and Syria, says he does not expect "any dramatic breakthrough in the nr. future."  Christopher says Asad "seemed relaxed" about upcoming Israeli-Jordanian summit.  (SARR 7/22 in FBIS 7/22; MM 7/22; NYT, WP, WT 7/23)

Israel reopens Erez crossing, Gaza Strip, after 5-day closure.  10,000 Palestinians enter Israel for work; another 10,000, most mbrs. of opposition groups, hold rally in Gaza City in support of 7/17 rioters.  (NYT 7/23)

IDF shoots Palestinian dead in Nablus, wounds 13.  (Qol Yisra'el 7/22 in FBIS 7/25; NYT 7/23)

Palestinian killed in Yatta village, nr. Hebron, when bomb left by IDF at firing range explodes.  (TJT 7/29)

Palestinian ambushes IDF patrol nr. settlement in Gaza Strip, wounds 1 soldier in attack claimed by Islamic Jihad.  (Qol Yisra'el 7/22 in FBIS 7/22; MM 7/22; WT 7/23)

3 bombs explode in Hebron; no casualties reported.  Clashes btwn. Palestinians, police erupt after explosions; 17 Palestinians wounded.  (Qol Yisra'el 7/22 in FBIS 7/22; MM 7/22; NYT, WT 7/23)

Israeli intelligence tells Argentine authorities "Followers of God" (NYT--"Partisans of God") group claims responsibility for 7/18 bombing of Jewish center in Buenos Aires, 7/19 bombing of commuter plane in Panama.  Death toll in Buenos Aires bombing now around 100--43 confirmed, 60 still missing.  Group known only fr. communiqué issued 3 mos. earlier in Sidon, Lebanon, pledging "all-out war" against Israel.  (NYT, WT 7/23)

IDF soldier shot and killed in Rafah, Gaza Strip, in attack claimed by Hamas as "swift and direct" revenge for 7/17 killing of 2 Palestinians in riot at Erez crossing.  (MM 7/19; NYT, WP 7/20)

Israel-Jordan talks reach agreement to start negotiations for peace treaty on a "continuous basis" next month.  (CSM, MM, NYT, WSJ, WT 7/20)

Palestinian-Israeli talks continue in Cairo on transfer of civilian powers to PNA.  (MENA 7/19 in FBIS 7/19)

Secy of State Christopher holds talks with Syrian Pres. Hafiz al-Asad in Damascus, says Israel-Syria dispute defies resolution, U.S. carrying no new proposals on Golan Heights.  Christopher describes Asad as "very serious" about peace process.  (CSM, NYT, WSJ, WT 7/20)

Commuter plane in Panama explodes, killing 21, including 12 Jews, of whom 4 are Israeli.  Local Jewish leaders speculate bombing connected to 7/18 bombing of Jewish organizations in Argentina.  (NYT, WP, WT 7/21)

Israel seals off Gaza Strip after previous day's riot at Erez checkpoint until "further notice."  Israeli cabinet mbrs. accuse Palestinian police of "gross irresponsibility" in incident.  (NYT 7/19)

Israel-Jordan peace talks open in tent on border 10 mi. north of Aqaba/Eilat.  Israeli delegation headed by Elyakim Rubenstein, Jordanian by Amb. to U.S. Fayiz Tarawnah.  Tarawnah expresses hope talks "will culminate in a treaty of peace," but PM and FM `Abd al-Salam Majali says Jordan "will not make a separate settlement with Israel by any means."  Talks break into working comm. sessions on borders, security, and water, energy, and environment issues.  (RJ, JTV 7/18 in FBIS 7/18; MM 7/18; CSM, NYT, WP, WSJ, WT 7/19)

Palestinian-Israeli talks resume in Cairo, agenda focusing on transfer of education authority to PNA.  (MENA 7/18 in FBIS 7/18)

Secy of State Christopher meets Israeli PM Rabin, FM Peres in Jerusalem, says Arab-Israeli conflict "drawing to an end."  (MM 7/18; NYT, WT 7/19)

Israeli govt. proposes legislation to bar PLO political activity in Israel and Jerusalem unless special approval given.  (MM 7/19; TJT 7/22; JP 7/30)

FM Peres announces Casablanca will host international Middle East economic conference 10/30, with over 2,000 companies participating.  (MM 7/19)

Bomb destroys Buenos Aires building housing Jewish organizations, files on Nazi war criminals in Argentina, killing at least 26, wounding over 100.  Iraqi detained in case; German, Iranian also reported arrested.  Argentine Pres. Menem says Mossad, Spanish intelligence will help in investigation.  Israeli PM Rabin denounces attack as "cowardly, criminal and evil act," vows to "chase perpetrators of terrorism to the end."  PLO official in Argentina says "we deeply lament this attack against peace."  Israeli embassy in Buenos Aires destroyed by bomb 3/92.  (MM, NYT, WP, WT 7/19; WJW 7/21)

Palestinian workers waiting to enter Israel riot at Erez checkpoint, Gaza Strip.  Palestinian police, IDF exchange fire in 1st such incident since 5/4 Gaza-Jericho agreement.  2 Palestinians killed, 98 wounded, including 5 police officers; 17 Israelis also wounded, including 1 Border Guard in critical condition.  Gas station, 120 Israeli buses destroyed.  Each side blames other for incident; PLO Chmn. Arafat calls for deployment in Gaza of international observers.  Secy of State Christopher, en route to region, calls riot a "tragedy."   Clashes occur in Ramallah, Hebron as news of riot spreads.  (CSM, MM, NYT, WP, WSJ, WT 7/18)

Secy of State Christopher starts tour of Middle East to prepare for 7/25 White House summit of Jordan's King Hussein, Israel's PM Rabin.  Trip will include mtgs. in Syria.  (NYT 7/18)

Hamas stages rally against PLO-Israel accord at Gaza City's Islamic University, drawing 1,000s.  Demonstrators call for violence against IDF, settlers.  (WT 5/24)

Islamic Jihad refuses to surrender arms to Palestinian police, pledges to continues attacks on Israelis.  (MM 5/23)

Palestinian police at Erez checkpoint, Gaza Strip, shoot out tires of Israeli driver who refuses to stop.  (Qol Yisra'el 5/23 in FBIS 5/24; MM, WT 5/24)

PM Rabin demands PLO Chmn. Arafat reaffirm in writing PLO commitment to 5/4 accord, citing Arafat "jihad" speech in South Africa.  Police M Moshe Shahal says implementation of 5/4 agreement could be forestalled if attacks on Israelis continue.  (Qol Yisra'el 5/23, 5/24 in FBIS 5/24; MM 5/23; NYT, WP, WT 5/24)

Fateh Maj. Bassam Fawzi Mi`ari shot dead in Sidon by another Fateh mbr. in incident called "personal dispute."  Assailant turned over to Lebanese army.  (RL 5/23 in FBIS 5/24)

1 Palestinian killed, 2 captured, 4th presumed dead in IDF raid on Islamic Jihad hideout in Hebron. Several houses demolished by IDF anti-tank missiles in action. (CSM, MM, NYT, WT 5/23; TJT 5/27; JP 6/4)

Palestinian police erect roadblocks in Gaza Strip, check cars for weapons as part of response to 5/20 killing of 2 IDF soldiers at Erez checkpoint. PLO officials at Jericho news conference urge all factions to surrender weapons. (WT 5/23)

Settlers break into Shalom Al Yisrael synagogue in Jericho despite presence of Palestinian police, who do not intervene. (WT 5/23)

PM Rabin warns that negotiations on expanding Palestinian self-rule areas jeopardized by attacks on Israelis in existing self-rule areas.  Palestinian police, IDF mount joint patrols, establish checkpoints in Gaza Strip in response to 5/20 killing of IDF soldiers at Erez checkpoint.  PLO condemns Erez killing as "pointed at Palestinian security."  (Qol Yisra'el 5/21 in FBIS 5/23; NYT, WT 5/22; CSM, MM 5/23)

IDF commandos abduct Lebanese Shi`ite leader Mustafa al-Dirani fr. Qasr Naba in Biqa` Valley.  Dirani, a frmr. Amal leader and head of Hizballah affiliate "Faithful Resistance," is thought to know whereabouts of IAF navigator Ron Arad, missing in Lebanon since 1986.  (NYT, WP, WT 5/22; CSM, MM 5/23; WJW 5/26; JP 5/28)

2 Israeli soldiers killed at Erez checkpoint, Gaza Strip.  Attackers flee into Gaza Strip self-rule area without pursuit by Palestinian police.  Islamic Jihad, Hamas claim responsibility.  Gaza police cmndr. Maj. Gen. Nasr Yusuf promises "we will stop them in the coming stages." Israel closes main roads into Gaza, bars Palestinian worker fr. Israel until 5/29 in retaliation.  PLO official Nabil Shaath, Gaza security chief Muhammad Dahlan meet IDF Maj. Gen. Amnon Shahak over incident.  2 Israeli garbage collectors wounded nr. Morag in Gush Qatif settlement bloc in separate shooting incident.  (MM 5/20; Qol Yisra'el 5/20 in FBIS 5/20; NYT, WP, WT 5/21; JP 5/28)

PLO Chmn. Arafat signs decree voiding post-1967 laws in o.t.  (al-Quds 5/24 in FBIS 5/25; TJT 5/27)

Jordan's King Hussein, Syrian Pres. al-Asad hold talks on peace process in Damascus.  (RJ 5/20 in FBIS 5/20)

Secy of State Christopher visits Jericho, commends "skill and efficiency" of Palestinian self-rule area.  After mtg. local admin., Christopher is escorted by Faisal Husseini on tour of Hisham Palace.  (MM 5/17; NYT, WP, WT 5/18; TJT 5/20)

Christopher meets twice with PM Rabin, discusses Israel-Syria negotiations.  "Officials" report 3-stage Israeli withdrawal plan, to take place over 5-8 yrs.  National Security Advisor Anthony Lake, in Washington speech, says U.S. seeks "real peace" btwn. Israel and Syria, will "participate in the security arrangements" reached by the parties. (NYT 5/18, 5/19)

IDF formally turns over Gaza Strip civil admin. to Palestinians in exchange of papers at Erez checkpoint btwn. Israel, Gaza Strip.  (MM 5/17; NYT, WP 5/18; Yediot Aharonot 5/18 in FBIS 5/18)

Israeli motorist kills Palestinian when he fires on stone-throwers in Nablus.  (TJT 5/20)

2 settlers killed, 1 wounded when their car ambushed nr. Bet Hagai settlement, south of Hebron.  Hamas claims responsibility for attack.  (MM 5/17; NYT, WP, WT 5/18; JP 5/28)

Israel Radio broadcasts recording of 5/10 speech by PLO Chmn. Yasir Arafat to Muslim congregation in Johannesburg, South Africa, in which Palestinian leader calls for "jihad to liberate Jerusalem."  PM Rabin calls speech "a clear violation" of PLO commitments under 5/4 agreement.  (MM, WP, WT 5/18)

Israeli commission of inquiry into Hebron massacre opens hearings in Jerusalem. IDF Central Command head Maj. Gen. Dani Yatom, local cmndr. Maj. Dov Stellman testify. (MM, NYT, WP, WT 3/9)

Israeli police report 3/7 arrests of 2 Kach leaders. 2 other Kach figuresentenced previous week to 3 mos.' administrative detention, leaving only 1 of 5 targeted Kach figures at large. (WT 3/9)

IAF bombs southern Lebanon in retaliation for 3/7 attacks on SLA. (WT 3/9)

IDF shoots dead 2 mbrs. of Hamas's 'Izz al-Din al-Qassam Brigades at Erez checkpoint, Gaza Strip when 1 pulls a gun. (MM 3/8; WP, WT 3/9)

Curfew on Jericho lifted, but 4 West Bank towns remain under total curfew. (NYT, WT 3/9)

Jordan's King Hussein arrives in Jeddah for 'umra pilgrimage to Mecca in 1st visit to Saudi Arabia since 1990-91 Gulf crisis. (MM 3/8)

Alleged Hamas mbr. Shadi Muslih 'Isa, 18, attacks Israeli police officer, civilian at Erez crossing point, Gaza Strip, and is shot dead. (MM 11/16)

16-yr.-old Palestinian student Rami Ghazzawi killed when IDF fires on youths stoning settler cars in al-Birah. 3 other students wounded. (MM 11/16)

Settlers in Hebron riot, overturning stalls at fruit and vegetable market and attacking Palestinian cars. (MM 11/16)

Israeli Justice M. David Libai, at Maale Ephraim settlement, warns settlers that no one could "take the law into his own hands," says govt. "will have to subdue any attempt to have influence by illegal means." IDF states it will act "firmly and aggressively" to stop settler assaults, will use "reasonable force." (MM 11/16; NYT 11/17)

PM Rabin tells Secy. of State Christopher 12/13 deadline for implementation of DoP may not be met. (MM 11/16, 11/17)

Israeli-Palestinian talks on implementation of Gaza-Jericho provisions of DoP resume in Cairo. Israeli delegation led by IDF Dep. Chief of Staff Amnon Shahak, Palestinian by PLO official Nabil Shaath. (Cairo TV 11/16 in FBIS 11/17)

Israel-PLO economic talks in Paris chaired by Fin. M. Avraham Shohat and PEDRA DG Ahmad Qurai' establish 3 subcomms. on trade and labor, taxation and banking, and currency. Subcomms. are to meet 11/23-25 in Paris, heads of delegations on 11/25. (Qol Yisra'el 11/16 in FBIS 11/17; MM 11/17)

Central Bank of Jordan (CBJ) Gov. Muhammad al-Nabulsi says agreement reached with Palestinians to retain Jordanian dinar as o.t. currency, have CBJ supervise and monitor banking. (JTV 11/16 in FBIS 11/17)

Multilateral talks on Middle East environment end in Cairo with Israeli-Arab agreement on Gulf of Aqaba oil spills, dispute on Israeli nuclear waste, Jordan Valley land reclamation. Delegates fr. 40 countries, in 4th mtg., agree on 20 environmental projects. (MENA 11/16 in FBIS 11/17; MM 11/17)

Palestinian leaders in o.t., Jordan, "and elsewhere" submit memorandum to PLO Chmn. Arafat criticizing PLO performance, demanding reforms. (MM 11/17, al-Ray 11/18 in FBIS 11/18)

Knesset Golan caucus considers bill fr. Likud and NRP mbrs. to amend law annexing Golan to require majority of 80 MKs for any change in law. Labor mbrs. of caucus express sympathy with bill, which given current Knesset divisions would effectively bar negotiations with Syria. (MM 11/17)

Syrian VP Khaddam tells foreign correspondents PLO Chmn. Arafat "fell into a big trap" in signing DoP, notes "There are 4 million Palestinian refugees living outside the territories covered by the 'Gaza-Jericho First' agreement." Khaddam claims Arafat "abandoned coordination with the Arab parties," states "I believe the majority of the Palestinian people do not support the agreement." (MM 11/16; SARR 11/16 in FBIS 11/17)

Hizballah offensive on IDF and SLA; Katyusha barrages fired in "security zone," assaults on 2 IDF, 6 SLA posts. 12 SLA mbrs. taken prisoner, at least 2 IDF soldiers and 2 SLA mbrs. wounded. 1 Hizballah mbr. killed in attack. IAF bombs 3 Hizballah bases nr. Ba'labakk, knocks out radio antenna. "Black September 13 Brigades," Fateh group opposed to DoP, claims responsibility for katyusha barrage on Qiryat Shemona. (MM 11/16, 11/17; IDF Radio, AFP 11/16 in FBIS 11/17)

Turkish FM Hikmet Cetin, in interview with JP, says Syria behind Kurdish attacks in Turkey, Israel and Turkey should cooperate on counter-terrorism. (MM 11/16)

Israel Archaeologists Society calls for end to govt. Antiquities Authority search for scrolls in West Bank ("Operation Scroll"), saying search aims at denying Palestinian scholars access to materials and will complicate future Israeli cooperation with Palestinians and Jordan. (WT 11/17)

One IDF soldier is killed and 1 wounded by Hamas gunmen near Hebron, W. Bank. Curfew is clamped on the town. Settlers in Hebron and nearby Kiryat Arba demand better security in demonstration at Jerusalem's King David Hotel, where PM Rabin was meeting with the Portuguese PM. (Qol Yisra'el 10/25 in FBIS 10/27; MM, WP 10/26)

Palestinian workers riot and burn buses at Erez checkpoint, Gaza, in clash with Israeli troops, who wounded 6 with rubber bullets. (Qol Yisra'el 10/25 in FBIS 10/29; WP 10/26)

Five IDF soldiers are killed and 5 wounded when a bomb explodes beside their convoy in S. Lebanon "security zone." Hizballah claims responsibility for this deadliest attack in 2 years. (WP 10/26; Qol Yisra'el 10/26 in FBIS 10/26)

Former Soviet Pres. Gorbachev arrives in Israel, meets with PM Shamir, attends dinner at Pres. Herzog's residence. (Qol Yisra'el 6/14, 6/15 in FBIS 6/15)

At Erez Crossing, Gaza, Israeli troops fire warning shots and drop gravel from a helicopter to disperse crowd of Pal. workers who rioted after being blocked from entering Israel for work. (WP 6/15)

Israeli long-range artillery inside the "security zone" heavily bombard villages in Iqlim al-Tuffah region, S. Lebanon; Israeli aircraft stage mock raids over Sidon refugee camps. (Radio Lebanon 6/14 in FBIS 6/15)

Russia agrees to allow Jewish immigrants to fly to Israel aboard regular El Al and Aeroflot flights. (Qol Yisra'el 6/14 in FBIS 6/16)

Israeli air force chief Maj. Gen. Herzl Bodinger on ITV calls for "disruption" of Iranian nuclear effort;ells reporters this means "international political action, and aggressive action, if needed." (WP 6/15)