The Palestine Chronology

U.S. VP Joe Biden begins a 4-day trip aimed at boosting the peace process and reassuring Israel on Iran, marking the highest level visit to the region to date by an Obama admin. official. Timed with his arrival, special envoy Mitchell formally announces that Israel and the Palestinians have agreed to hold indirect talks, while stating that the structure and scope of the talks has not been agreed. (To date, Israel has insisted that proximity talks deal only with procedural issues, while Palestinians want all issues, especially borders, discussed.) He also calls on both sides “to refrain from any statements or actions which may inflame tensions or prejudice the outcome of these talks.” While Mitchell is meeting with Abbas in Ramallah, however, Israel announces construction of 112 new settlement housing units in the West Bank settlement of Beitar Ilit w. of Bethlehem, part of a planned 300-unit project (the foundations for the other units had already been poured when the 10-mo. construction freeze went into effect, automatically exempting them). Israel says that the empty site poses a safety hazard and that construction to address “safety problems for . . . projects started before the freeze” is not a violation of the freeze. (NYT, WP, WT 3/9)

In the West Bank, IDF troops raid a school in Azun village nr. Qalqilya, claiming students had thrown stones at their unit, attempting to arrest 1 boy; the headmaster bars the boy’s removal from the school and asks the Israeli-Palestinian liaison department to intervene; the soldiers leave the school after 2 hrs. of mediation, without making any arrests. The IDF conducts late-night arrest raids, house searches in Hebron, nr. Bethlehem. In Hebron, a 15-yr.-old Jewish settler assaults 2 Palestinian boys (ages 11, 12) on their way home from school; the IDF observes but only intervenes when the settler boy cuts his hand when he tried to take a birdcage away from the Palestinian boys, arresting the Palestinians but releasing them on bail hrs. later. (JP 3/8; OCHA, PCHR 3/11)

The IDF raids a high school nr. Nablus, arrests a 10th grader; raids a mosque in al-Bireh, arresting 1 Palestinian; fires on residential areas of Khan Yunis, wounding a man on his roof; conducts house searches, arrest raids in Nablus, Rafah. In implementation of a new security plan (Quarterly Update), the PA deploys large numbers of PSF officers on the streets of Gaza City. (MM 3/11; HA 3/14; PR 3/17; PCHR 3/18)

The U.S.’s Abrams, Burns, Hadley arrive in Israel for further consultations on Sharon’s disengagement plan. Meanwhile in Washington, Israeli DM Shaul Mofaz briefs U.S. VP Dick Cheney, Powell on Israel’s latest thinking regarding evacuating settlements, maintaining security control in Gaza postwithdrawal. In Cairo, Israeli FM Silvan Shalom meets with Egyptian pres. Husni Mubarak and FM Ahmad Maher, who provide assurances that Egypt would secure its border with Gaza following an Israeli pullout. (AFP, HA, JP, MM, NYT, REU 3/11; MENA 3/11 in WNC 3/13; MM, WP 3/12; MA 3/12 in WNC 3/16; PR 3/17; MEI 3/19)

The IDF completes its withdrawal to the outskirts of Ramallah; conducts arrest raids in Anabta, Bayt Furik; shells residential areas of Khan Yunis, wounding 7; demolishes a Palestinian home in Hebron; bulldozes 17 dunams of agricultural land in Absan nr. the Gaza-Israel border. In Silwan in East Jerusalem, Israeli special forces raid a Palestinian home, killing 1 Palestinian, wounding another. A Palestinian heart attack victim dies when his ambulance is barred fr. crossing an IDF checkpoint to reach a hospital. (LAW 6/13; UPMRC, WP 6/14; LAW, PCHR 6/19; New Haven Register 7/3)

Bush confers with Saudi FM Prince Saud al-Faisal, who holds separate talks with VP Cheney, National Security Adviser Condoleeza Rice. (MM, NYT, WP, WT 6/14)

The IDF continues its attack on the PA's Ramallah compound, flattening 6 buildings (including an intelligence office, jail) leaving 1 Force 17 mbr., 1 PA intelligence officer dead. Troops reportedly are "poised and ready" to capture or kill Arafat, but pull back and out of Ramallah before dawn, after Sharon promises Bush he will not harm the PA leader. The IDF pulls out of Jenin, Nablus in the evening; sends tanks into Beitunia, arrests 6 Palestinians. A Palestinian gunman fatally shoots a Jewish settler driving nr. Shiloh settlement. (AP, MM, WT 6/6; MM, NYT, WP, WT 6/7; al-Quds 6/7 in WNC 6/10)

Mubarak meets with U.S. VP Dick Cheney, Secy. of State Colin Powell, mbrs. of Congress. (MENA 6/6 in WNC 6/7; MENA 6/6, 6/7 in WNC 6/10; MM, WP 6/7)

Rep. Hilliard loses a tight run-off election to a candidate backed with $1.4 m. fr. AIPAC. (AP 6/26; MEI 7/12) (see 6/5)

The IDF shells the home of PSF West Bank head Jibril Rajub, injuring 6 bodyguards; Rajub, his family are home but are not injured. The IDF also directs shells, heavy machine gun fire at al-Arub refugee camp, Bayt Jala, al-Bireh, Hebron, al-Khadir, Ramallah. Jewish settlers establish a new settlement enclave in Nabi Salih, nr. Ramallah; occupy 2 Palestinian shops in Jerusalem's Old City; set Palestinian wheat fields on fire nr. Hebron. Israel's Peace Now reports that at least 15 new Jewish settlement sites have been established since Sharon was elected in 2/01. (HP, Peace Now press release 5/20; NYT, PMC, WT 5/21; HA, WP 5/22; HA, MM, NYT 5/23; PCHR 5/24; LAW 5/25; MEI 6/1)

The Mitchell Comm. gives Israel, the PA its final report, which is identical to its preliminary report (see 5/16). Comm. heads Mitchell and fmr. sen. Warren Rudman send a letter to the Anti-Defamation League stressing that the report makes no direct linkage between halting violence, halting settlements. (MENA 5/21 in WNC 5/22; ITAR-TASS 5/21, AYM, HJ, MENA 5/22 in WNC 5/23; MM, NYT, WP, WT 5/22; MM, WP 5/23; AYM, HA, JT, MA, MENA, QA, al-Ra'i 5/23 in WNC 5/24; WJW 5/24; QA 5/25 in WNC 5/29; MEI 6/1; NYT 6/2)

Angry over Sharon's decision to use F-16s on 5/18 without consulting the full cabinet or security cabinet, the full Israeli cabinet limits the "kitchenette" (Sharon, Peres, Ben-Eliezer) to ordering strikes against 3 types of Palestinian targets without prior approval. (HA 5/21; MA 5/21 in WNC 5/22)

U.S. VP Dick Cheney states that the Israel should stop using American-supplied F-16s against Palestinian targets. Sharon says Israel will use as much military force against the Palestinians as it deems necessary. (MM, NYT, WT 5/21; al-Quds 5/21 in WNC 5/22; QA 5/21 in WNC 5/23; WJW 5/24; MEI 6/1)

After 19 days of recounting votes, Florida certifies Texas gov. George W. Bush as winner of the 11/7 presidential elections in the state, giving him the electoral college votes to become president. Lawyers for Democratic rival, VP Al Gore, plan to challenge the Florida certification, which will drag out the process for at least a wk. (NYT, WP, WT 11/27; MEI 12/22)

Israeli-Palestinian clashes continue. Nr. Qalqilya, IDF snipers fatally shoot 4 Palestinians (each hit 4-11 times). A 5th Palestinian dies of injuries received earlier. The IDF shells residential areas in Khan Yunis, damaging 1 home. The IDF also bulldozes 10s of dunams of Palestinian land nr. Dugit settlement, Kefar Darom settlement, Kissufim crossing (destroying 1 home, damaging another), Netzarim Junction, Rafah crossing (destroying 4 storerooms, 6 irrigation systems, 1 well serving 50 families). (LAW 11/26; LAW, NYT, PCHR, WP, WT 11/27; PCHR 12/18)

In Cairo, PA, Israeli security officials hold mtgs. on halting the clashes. (YA 11/27)

Hizballah detonates a roadside bomb nr. an IDF convoy in the Shaba` Farms area of the Golan Heights, killing 1 soldier, injuring 2. Israel responds with airstrikes, artillery and machine gun fire on Hizballah targets in s. Lebanon, wounding 1 Lebanese civilian. (IDF Radio [Internet] 11/26; MM, NYT, WP, WT, YA 11/27; MM 11/28; MEI 12/8; WP 1/30)

Presidential elections are held in the U.S., but the race btwn. VP Al Gore (D) and Texas Gov. George W. Bush (R) is too close to call. The election rests on some 1,500 votes in Florida, where ballot errors could swing results. At the least, Florida absentee ballots must be tabulated and regular votes recounted, meaning it could be weeks before the new president is declared. (MM 11/7; NYT, WP, WT 11/8; al-Quds 11/8 in WNC 11/9; MM, NYT, WP, WT 11/9; AYM, al-Quds 11/9, HJ 11/10 in WNC 11/13; MM 11/10)

Israeli-Palestinian clashes continue, leaving 1 Palestinian dead, 150 injured. A 2d Palestinian dies of wounds received earlier. Jewish settlers block roads, attack Palestinians, damage property in Hebron and nr. Nablus, Rafah, Tulkarm. Off Gaza, a fishing boat laden with explosives detonates nr. an Israeli patrol ship, killing the suicide bomber. The IDF shells areas of Bayt Jala in response to Palestinian sniping at Gilo settlement. IDF chief of staff Mofaz says the IDF is preparing contingencies for the evacuation of all 7,000 Jewish settlers in Gaza. Barak allows the Gaza airport, closed since 10/22, to reopen. (ADM, LAW 11/7; al-Quds 11/7 in WNC 11/9; NYT, WP 11/8)

In keeping with the 10/17 Sharm agmts., the White House names fmr. senator George Mitchell (D-ME) to lead an inquiry into the causes of the Israeli-Palestinian clashes. Also named to the panel are fmr. Turkish pres. Suleyman Demirel, Norwegian FM Thorbjoern Jagland, fmr. senator Warren B. Rudman (R-NH), EU foreign policy dir. Solana. (MM, NYT, WP, WT 11/8; AYM 11/9 in WNC 11/13; MEI 11/24)

VP Al Gore selects Sen. Joseph Lieberman of Connecticut, who drafted the 1995 Jerusalem Embassy Relocation Act, as his running mate for the presidential elections. Lieberman, who is Orthodox, is the 1st Jew to be selected to run on a national ticket for a major party. (CSM, MM, NYT, WP, WT 8/8; MM, WT 8/9; WJW 8/10)

A day after formally taking over the FMin. portfolio fr. Levy, who quit on 8/2, PM Barak withdraws Israel's envoys to Britain, France, South Africa because they are Levy loyalists and recalls the Israeli envoy to Switzerland who is a mbr. of NRP, which quit the coalition on 7/9. (JP [Internet], MM, NYT, WT 8/8; MM 8/9)

IDF soldiers fire across the border with Lebanon at youths throwing stones, bottles at them. 1 youth, 2 journalists are wounded. (NYT 8/8; WJW 8/10)

Palestinians in Dura al-Qari' village receive a military order for the confiscation of 9 dunams of their land. Jewish settlers have made repeated attempts over the past 25 yrs. to grab the same plot. (LAW 8/10)

PA, Israeli teams take a break fr. formal talks, go sightseeing. After the Jewish Sabbath ends, Clinton holds a 3-way mtg. with Arafat, Barak. PM Barak also phones presidential candidates, VP Al Gore and Texas gov. George W. Bush; no details are released. The White House also confirms that the PA, Israeli teams have begun meeting on noncore issues in Emmitsburg. (White House press conference, WT 7/16; DUS 7/16 in WNC 7/18; NYT, WP, WT 7/17; JP 7/21)

In Jerusalem, Israeli peace activists hold a rally in support of the Camp David talks. In the PA areas, various groups supporting and opposing the talks hold demonstrations. In Hebron, 100s of Jewish settlers adamantly opposed to the peace process throw rocks at Palestinians, claiming they are disturbing the Sabbath, sparking a riot that lasts 3 hrs. 3 Palestinian cameramen are badly beaten by IDF soldiers while trying to film the incident. (LAW 7/15; WP, WT 7/16; al-Quds 7/22 in WNC 7/24; MEI 7/28)

Jewish settlers occupy a hill top nr. Efrat settlement, clash with Israeli police who attempt to remove them. (IDF Radio [Internet] 7/16)

The 1st round of PA-Israeli FAPS talks at Bolling ends. The State Dept. says the teams spent this round "attempting to achieve a better understanding of each other's needs and requirements." No progress was made on narrowing the gaps in their positions. Teams agree to open a 2d round of talks at Bolling on 4/6. (NYT, WP, WT 3/29; AYM, al-Quds 3/29 in WNC 3/30; AYM 4/1 in WNC 4/6)

Barak phones Egypt's Mubarak in Washington to brief him on Israel's views on the 3/26 Clinton-Asad mtg. in Geneva. Egyptian FM Musa phones Syrian FM Shara` to discuss Syria's view of the 3/26 mtg. (MENA 3/28 in WNC 3/29; MEI 4/7)

In Washington for talks on bilateral relations, Pres. Mubarak meets with Pres. Clinton to discuss the peace process. Clinton calls for "intensifying" PA-Israeli negotiations, says that "the ball is in [Asad's] court" regarding movement on the Syrian-Israeli track. (MENA 3/28 in WNC 3/29; MM, NYT, WP, WT 3/29; MENA 3/29 in WNC 3/30; MM 3/30; DUS, MENA 3/30 in WNC 3/31; MM 4/3; MEI 4/7)

Jordan indicts 28 Arabs allegedly linked to Saudi dissident Osama Bin Laden on terrorism charges for conspiring to attack U.S., Israeli targets during New Year's celebrations. 15 suspects are in custody; 13 others are at large. Most of the suspects are Jordanian, others are Algerian, Iraqi, Palestinian, Yemeni. (DUS 3/28 in WNC 3/29; NYT, WP 3/29; DUS 3/29 in WNC 3/30; NYT 4/11)

After a 7-mo. investigation, Israeli police recommend that fmr. PM Benjamin Netanyahu and his wife Sara be indicted on criminal charges of fraud, bribery, theft of 700 state gifts worth $100,000, obstruction of justice. (MM, NYT, WP, WT 3/29)

Bowing to Washington, OPEC agrees to boost oil output. (Iran refuses to sign the agmt. in protest to the U.S. but agrees to comply in effect.) Clinton calls the move "good news . . . for the American consumer," but many OPEC officials complain that the heavy-handed U.S. pressure (especially fr. Energy Secy. Bill Richardson, who hopes to be chosen as VP Al Gore's running mate for the 11/00 U.S. elections) makes their own political and economic situations more awkward. (CSM, NYT, WP 3/29; WP 3/30; MEI 4/7) (see 3/24)

PC gives Arafat 2 wks. to press charges or release Palestinian political prisoners being held in PA jails without trial, demands halt to political detention. (LAW 1/13; MEI 1/29)

Israeli, U.S. sources confirm that the only materials stolen fr. Greenberg Quinlan Research related to Barak's campaign for PM. Files, a laptop computer containing information on Barak, computer backup tapes fr. a safe were taken, suggesting the burglars knew exactly what they wanted. Israeli government spokesman David Bar-Ilan warns that anyone casting blame on Netanyahu, the Likud could be subject to legal action. (NYT, WP, WT 1/14; MM 1/20; JP 1/22) (see 1/12)

At the UN Security Council (UNSC), U.S. VP Al Gore recommends lifting the ceiling on how much oil Iraq can sell, streamlining approval of purchases under Oil-for-Food program, but not removing sanctions altogether, as China, France, Russia wish. France recommends preventive (not intrusive) weapons monitoring that would replace or significantly change UNSCOM; an end to restrictions on Iraqi oil sales; a program of strict economic, financial controls to make sure oil revenues are not used for military purchases. (NYT, WP, WT 1/14; MM 1/15, 1/22)

U.S. planes fire on 5 Iraqi missile batteries in n. Iraq in 3d straight day of confrontations. (NYT 1/14)

Palestinians fr. Kafr Salaf, Azzun block armed settlers with bulldozers fr. levelling their village land (in area C) to expand nearby settlements. The IDF intervenes to remove the settlers. (AFP [Internet] 1/13)

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)

Pres. Clinton meets with VP Gore, Secy. Albright, NSA Berger, special envoy Dennis Ross, Asst. Secy. of State for Near East Affairs Martin Indyk to discuss "new thinking" to revive peace process now that Iraq crisis has passed. (MM 3/4)

World Likud Chmn. Zalman Shoval, fmr. Israeli amb. to Washington, says that PM Netanyahu has enlisted him to start a "information campaign" targeting U.S. public opinion to lobby U.S. not to press Israel to make an FRD. (MM 3/3; WT 3/4) (see 3/2)

Hamas spiritual leader Shaykh Yasin arrives in Saudi Arabia. (MM 3/31; MM 4/9; WT 5/4)

In s. Lebanon, 1 Lebanese civilian is injured during IDF air strike on Hizballah target. (WT 3/4)

In Washington, Israeli Trade M Sharansky meets with U.S. VP Al Gore, asks Gore what can be done to commute Pollard's sentence for spying (see 12/28), raises concern over Russian aid to Iran. (IDF Radio 2/13 in WNC 2/17)

Ignoring 2/10 ban, 300 Palestinian youths in Hebron hold demonstration against attack on Iraq. (IDF Radio 2/12 in WNC 2/15)

IDF demolishes home of Lebanese civilian in s. Lebanon, damaging 2 houses nearby. (RL 2/13 in WNC 2/17)

In Minnesota, PM Netanyahu, King Hussein discuss ways of restarting Israeli-PA talks, especially Netanyahu's proposal for a Camp-David-style summit (see 4/1). (CSM, NYT, WP 4/7; RJ 4/7 in WNC 4/8; JTV 4/8 in WNC 4/9)

Netanyahu withdraws fr. a scheduled appearance before the Reform Jewish movement, the largest Jewish denomination in the U.S. Reform leaders regard the decision as a "deliberate affront." (WT 4/7) (see 4/1)

PA Higher Education M Ashrawi arrives in Washington to meet with Secy. of State Albright, U.S. special envoy Ross. (WP 4/7; MM 4/9)

The American Israel Public Affairs Comm. (AIPAC) annual 3-day conference opens in Washington. U.S. VP Al Gore, Amb. to the UN Richardson address the group. Gore praises "my friend Bibi" for his "passionate" devotion to Israeli security. (MM, WP 4/7; WP 4/8)

Nr. Tel Aviv, an explosion destroys a warehouse at a factory where Israel makes parts for the U.S.-funded Arrow antimissile missile. Israel says the explosion was accidental. (WT 4/7)

The Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) convenes in Lisbon. 54 mbr.-states attend. PM Netanyahu says that Israel will expand settlement construction in the West Bank; refuses Arafat's request to meet on sidelines of conference (Arafat does not attend mtg.); does meet with U.S. VP Al Gore, French Pres. Jacques Chirac. (MM 12/2; ITV 12/2, IDF Radio 12/3 in WNC 12/4; MM 12/3, 12/5)

PA releases Hamas's Shaykh Ahmad Nimr after a 9-mo. detention in Gaza Central Prison. (MEI, PR 12/13) (see 3/5)

Iranian FM `Ali Akbar Velayati arrives in Syria for talks on bilateral relations. Israel says it is concerned by the visit. (IRNA 12/2 in WNC 12/3; SATN 12/2, VIRI 12/3 in WNC 12/4; MA 12/5 in WNC 12/6)

Oslo II bill passes its 2d and 3d readings (48-44) in the Knesset. (MM 1/16, 1/17) (see 1/8)

Jerusalem mayor Ehud Olmert, Arafat adviser Faisal Husseini confirm that Israel (under the direction of M Beilin), the PA (under Husseini) have been holding informal discussions for some time regarding the principles on which to negotiate Jerusalem's final status. (Davar 1/17 in FBIS 1/17; VOP 1/18 in FBIS 1/19; QY 1/26, VOP 1/27, MENA 1/28 in FBIS 1/29)

Jordan, Israel sign transportation agmt. (QY 1/16 in FBIS 1/17; MM 1/17; JP 1/27)

U.S. VP Gore meets PM Peres, FM Barak in Israel, then meets with Arafat in Jericho. (MM 1/16; QY 1/16 in FBIS 1/16; VOP 1/16 in FBIS 1/17)

In 1st fatal attack since redeployment, 2 IDF soldiers are shot, killed in Hebron. The previously unknown Mujahidin of Islam claims it carried out the attack in retribution for Ayyash slaying 1/5. IDF puts curfew on surrounding villages for several hours to search for gunmen. (MM, NYT, WP 1/17; QY 1/17 in FBIS 1/17; CSM 1/18: JP 1/27)

In an address to the German parliament, Israeli Pres. Ezer Weizman says Israel cannot forgive Germany for the Holocaust though it is grateful for current strong bilateral ties. Germany announces plans to provide monthly pensions (of around $400; estimated $1.5 b. over next 10 to 15 yrs.) to German, German-speaking Jews who survived the Holocaust. Most now live in Israel, U.S. (NYT, WT 1/17)

Lebanese military prosecutor issues warrant for SLA Cmdr. Antoine Lahd on charges of collaboration with Israel, usurping state sovereignty, kidnapping, murder. (RL 1/16 in FBIS 1/17)

Israel transfers 90 Palestinian prisoners to the custody of the PA in Jericho, releases 40 fr. Gaza. (MM 1/10)

Likud plasters posters throughout East Jerusalem, threatening to revoke the Jerusalem ID cards of Palestinians who vote in the 1/20 elections. Arafat protests. (AFP, JMCC 1/15 in FBIS 1/16)

U.S. VP Al Gore arrives in Tel Aviv for official visit, meets with Likud's Netanyahu. (IDF Radio 1/15 in FBIS 1/16; MM, WT 1/16; Davar 1/17 in FBIS 1/17)

King Hussein, U.S. VP Gore meet in Amman. King criticizes congressional decision to cut Jordan's debt forgiveness. Gore promises U.S. will forgive all debt. (JTV, RJ 3/21, RJ 3/22 in FBIS 3/22; WP, WT 3/22; JP 4/1) (see 3/3, 3/13)

Israeli Dep. FM Beilin, Egyptian FM Musa meet in Cairo, say relations have improved since Knesset delegation visit 3/19. Beilin says Egypt now better understands Israel's security needs, NPT argument has abated. (QY 3/21 in FBIS  3/22)

In Beersheba, Israeli police arrest 2 Hamas mbrs., 1 Israeli bedouin with explosives-rigged truck with Gaza plates. Pair confesses to planning suicide attack. PM Rabin cancels mtg. with PA scheduled for 3/22 to discuss release of Palestinian prisoners, bans all vehicles with Gaza license plates fr. entering Israel. (MM 3/21; QY 3/21 in FBIS 3/21; CSM, MM, WP 3/22; NYT 3/23; IDF Radio 3/23 in FBIS 3/23; PR 3/26; MM 3/27; JP 4/1)

10 Damascus-based Palestinian opposition groups close 2-day mtg. to assess peace process, PA administration, possible relations with PNG (see 2/21). PLO Exec. Comm. mbr. al-Qaddumi says he will head delegation to Damascus in next wk. to try to reach a conciliation agmt. with these groups. (al-Ray 3/23, QY 3/24 in FBIS 3/24)

U.S. VP Gore arrives in Cairo for 3-day visit. (MENA 3/19, 3/20 in FBIS 3/20; RJ 3/19 in FBIS 3/21)

Egyptian Pres. Mubarak receives delegation of Knesset mbrs. in Cairo, discusses NPT, recent Israeli statements against Egypt, ways of advancing peace process. (MENA 3/19 in FBIS 3/20; MM 3/20; MENA 3/20 in FBIS 3/21)

PM Rabin allows another 3,150 permits for Palestinian workers, bringing number allowed entry into Israel to 24,150. (QY 3/19 in FBIS 3/20; WP 3/20)

Unidentified gunmen ambush Israeli bus in Hebron, West Bank, killing 2, wounding 5 Jewish settlers. Settlers fr. Kiryat Arba riot, destroy Palestinian shop, cars before IDF intervenes, sets 24-hr. curfew. (QY 3/19, 3/20 in FBIS 3/20; MM, NYT, WP, WT 3/20; CSM, NYT, WP, WT 3/21; WJW 3/23; MM 3/27; MEI 3/31; JP 4/1)

 2 Palestinians die in explosion nr. Jenin. IDF says bomb they were making exploded, causing accident. (NYT 3/20)

IDF shells Amal positions in s. Lebanon, hits Nepalese UNIFIL contingent, killing 1 UN soldier. (RL 3/20 in FBIS 3/20)

PM Rabin reiterates offer to Syria of  "very small" withdrawal fr. Golan in exchange for 3-yr. period to "test" full normalization, open border, exchange of embassies. Pres. al-Asad rejects proposal again, encourages U.S. to offer new ideas to activate talks. Both say if there is no progress by this summer, there will be little hope for an agmt. before 1996 Israeli, U.S. elections. (WT 3/6; RMC 3/5, 3/6 in FBIS 3/6; MM, WT 3/7; MM 3/8; WJW 3/9)

Annual IDF intelligence assessment is presented to Israeli cabinet. Report is pessimistic about securing peace with Syria, says Arafat is not asserting his authority in Gaza, finds probability for war low but says violent acts will likely increase. (MM, WT 3/6; QY 3/5, HA, JP, QY 3/6 in FBIS 3/6; WJW 3/9; JP 3/11)

Arafat, Israeli Police M Shahal meet to discuss "pending issues." IDF claims Arafat also transmitted message fr. Iraqi Pres. Saddam Hussein to PM Rabin expressing willingness to sign peace treaty with Israel. PA denies claim. (MM 3/6; al-Sharq al-Awsat 3/6 in FBIS 3/7)

Senate Foreign Affairs Comm. Chairman Jesse Helms calls for abolition of all foreign aid; asks that $3 b. aid to Israel become part of defense budget; claims similar plan was proposed by Secy. of State Christopher but was shot down by VP Al Gore, Dep. Secy. of State Strobe Talbott, Undersecretary of State Tim Wirth. (WT 3/6) (see 3/3)

Israeli ships enforcing naval blockade of s. Lebanon fire on Adlun port, south of Tyre, killing 1 fisherman. (QY, RL 3/5 in FBIS 3/6)

U.S. Secy. of State Christopher cancels plans to visit Middle East this wk. due to Haiti invasion, should arrive after 9/20. (MM 9/12)

U.S. VP Gore announces U.S. will loan Palestinian private sector $87 m. for 9 projects planned to create 1,800 temporary and permanent jobs in Gaza, West Bank. (MM 9/13; JP 9/24)

At Labor Party caucus, PM Rabin says if Knesset passes law requiring special majority for withdrawal fr. Golan, it will torpedo talks with Syria, divert money fr. welfare to defense; calls proposal "racist move, aimed at minimizing . . . the Arab vote." Most Labor hawks defer to Rabin. Likud Party chmn. Moshe Qatzav says Likud will not honor withdrawal agmt. if national referendum is not held. (ITV 9/11 in FBIS 9/13; MM 9/12; QY 9/12 in FBIS 9/13; JP 9/17; MM 9/21; JP 9/24) (see 9/7)

Israeli-Palestinian Security Comm. meets to discuss release of Palestinian detainees, safe passage, joint patrols. No agmts. reached. (QY, VOP 9/12 in FBIS 9/13)

Israeli Finance M Avraham Shohat meets Arafat in Gaza, gives PNA $5 m. in VAT taxes on goods imported to the self-rule areas via Israeli ports, says Israel will speed up transfer of tax funds as goodwill gesture. (IDF Radio, QY, VOP 9/12 in FBIS 9/13; MM 9/13; JP 9/24)

Jordanian-Israeli talks on borders, water, security, energy, environment, tourism, economy continue in Tiberias. Jordan-Israel-U.S. trilateral comm. continues talks on development of Jordan Rift. (RJ 9/11 in FBIS 9/12; MM 9/12)

Israel PM Rabin, Pres. Clinton hold joint teleconference with American Jews at 70 sites around U.S.; discuss peace process, threat from Hamas, Islamic Jihad, Iran. (MM, WP, WT 9/13; QY 9/13 in FBIS 9/13)

2d IDF officer arrested in connection with illegal extremist right-wing organization. Lt. Qobi Pino, settler fr. Qiryat Arba, is 10th arrested for anti-Arab activity. (IDF Radio 9/12 in FBIS 9/14)

FM Peres criticizes some settlements in Gaza Strip as "totally illogical," saying Netzarim "has no agricultural importance, no economic importance, no security importance."  (MM 2/22)

15 settler families, most fr. Ariel, sign petition for Knesset assistance to help them leave o.t.  MKs Yossi Katz (Labor) and Avraham Poraz (Meretz) submit Knesset bills calling for comprehensive compensation plan for settlers leaving o.t., while Labor MKs Haggai Merom and Avraham Burg set up "hot line" for settlers who wish to leave.  (MM 2/23)

Lebanese govt. officials, responding to U.S. concerns over violence in southern Lebanon, agree to restrain actions of guerrilla groups in south.  Int. M Bishara Mirhaj says "We will not approve of any operation that undermines the responsibility of the state in south Lebanon."  (NYT 2/25)

Israeli Central Bureau of Statistics puts Israeli population at end 1993 at 5.325 m., compared to 5.196 m. in 1992.  CBS says settlements' population at 115,000 compared to 105,000 in 1992, Palestinian population in o.t. 1.9 m.  (MM 2/23)

Likud leader Binyamin Netanyahu meets in Washington with VP Al Gore, Senate Minority Leader Robert Dole.  Gore expresses both personal and official Clinton admin. opposition to Palestinian state, according to Netanyahu, while Dole says Senate would oppose posting U.S. troops on Golan.  (MM 2/23)

Jordanian Crown Prince Hassan expresses "respect and appreciation" for Saudi fund-raising drive for Islamic holy places in Jerusalem.  (RJ 2/22 in FBIS 2/23)

Senate confirms Strobe Talbott as dep. secy. of state by 66-31 vote.  Opponents had charged Talbott was overly critical of Israel while a journalist for Time magazine, Sen. John McCain (R-AZ)  calling Talbott's articles "insulting, immature and incorrect," Sen. Minority Leader Robert Dole (R-KS) accusing Talbott of "clear anti-Israel bias." (MM, NYT, WP, WT 2/23)

Jordanian Crown Prince Hassan and Israeli FM Peres meet each other, U.S. Pres. Clinton in Washington. 1st public meeting of Israeli and Jordanian leaders is followed by press conference to announce formation of joint comms. on economic cooperation, environment. (NYT, WP 10/2)

Donor nations' conference in Washington pledges $2.1 b. in aid to Palestinian entity over next 5 years. 43 nations represented pledge $600 m. in next year alone. Biggest donor is EC, pledging $600 m. over 5 years, followed by U.S. at $500 m. in same period. Japan promises $200 m. over 2 years, and Scandinavian countries $150 m. over an unspecified time. Saudi Arabia, ending its cutoff of support for Palestinians, promises $100 m. in 1st year, while Israel offers a$25 m. grant and a $50 m. loan. U.S. VP Al Gore delivers keynote address, while Secy. of State Christopher describes conference results as "a striking success however you measure it." PLO Chmn. Arafat, in Tunis, says aid is insufficient, maintaining that "at least we are in need of $5 billion." (NYT, WP, WT 10/2)

Veteran Israeli peace activist Abie Nathan shuts down his pirate "Voice of Peace" radio station after 20 years, saying PLO-Israel accord has created a new era. (WT 10/2)

Sec. Baker receives letter from Israeli F.M. Levy seen as retracting commitment made on 10/2 that Israel would not settle Soviet Jews in E. Jerusalem [HAA 10/18 in FBIS 10/18; NYT, LAT, WP 10/19].

Israeli troops wound at least 55 Palestinians who stoned soldiers raising an Israeli flag in the middle of Rafa refugee camp [NYT 10/19].

Soviet envoy Primakov meets in Washington with Sec. Baker and NSC's Brent Scowcroft to discuss Gulf crisis [NYT, WP 10/19].

In 1st unanimous decision since 8/2, Arab League emergency summit adopts resolution deploring WVashington's pro-Israel bias and urging UN Sec. Council to apply its law impartially to all disputes. Resolution is compromise after earlier PLO-sponsored draft is defeated 11-10 prompting protest walkout [MEM 10/18, 10/19; NYT, WP 10/19; SVP 10/20 in FBIS 10/23].

Israel notifies UN it would be willing to give Sec.-Gen. Perez de Cuellar a copy of the findings of Israel's own inquiry into Haram al-Sharif shootings in lieu of accepting UN investigating team (cf. 10/19) [MEM 10/19; NYT 10/20.

Military and hospital officials in Beirut report at least 750 people were killed in the Syrian-led offensive that toppled Gen. Michel Aoun on 10/13. Death toll from the 8-hour battle makes it the worst single battle in history of Lebanese civil war [NYT 10/19]. 

Israeli cabinet officially and unanimously denounces UN decision to send delegation to investigate Haram al-Sharif shootings in Jerusalem. U.S. admin. officials say Israel's rejection of UN delegation may further strain U.S.-Israel relations [NYT, LAT, WP, WT, MEM 10/15; text in JPD 10/15 in FBIS 10/15].

B'Tselem issues report on Haram al- Sharif incident concluding Israeli forces fired indiscriminately after danger to police or Jewish worshippers had disappeared [MEM 10/15].

Iraq and Iran resume direct diplomatic relations, reopening their respective embassies [NYT, WT 10/14].

Arafat meets with French F.M. Roland Dumas and says he is optimistic about a political solution to Gulf crisis following his latest talks with Saddam. PLO's 90-member Central Council issues statement calling for "balanced and linked solution to all regional issues and crisis in accordance with international legitimacy. . ." [SVP 10/14 in FBIS 10/15; NYT, MEM 10/15].

"Aliya cabinet" chaired by Housing Minister Ariel Sharon decides to encourage increase in settlement of Soviet Jews in E. Jeru- salem, despite gov't assurances to U.S. not to do so. The move is seen as response to U.S.-backed 10/12 UN vote; Sharon says: "there is no better answer to the political dangers" presented by UN resolutions "than strengthening the Jewish population" in E. Jerusalem [JDS 10/14 in FBIS 10/15; MEM 10/15; NYT 10/16].

Israeli military begins handing out gas masks and chemical warfare defense kits that it plans to distribute to Israelis over next 2 months. Palestinians in O.T. will not be given kits but will be allowed to purchase them [NYT, WP 10/2; NYT, LAT, WP 10/8].

Facing dwindling oil reserves and commercial imports, Jordan orders austerity measures to save fuel to begin on 10/13. Measures call for reduced work days, mandatory closing times for shops, and decreased electrical use [NYT 10/8].

EC foreign ministers agree that there could be "no compromise" with Iraq over UN resolutions on the Gulf, and that pressure must be kept up on Iraq to withdraw from Kuwait [LAT 10/8].

At inauguration of new E. Jerusalem Jewish religious school, P.M. Shamir announces plans for major new housing project in E. Jerusalem built for Orthodox Jews on undeveloped ridge between Mt. Scopus and the Mount of Olives [LAT, WP, MEM 10/8].

Yasir Arafat meets with Soviet envoy Primakov in Baghdad to discuss Gulf crisis [SVP 10/7 in FBIS 10/9].

Maj. Gen. Ali Habib, commander of Syrian forces in Gulf, tells Saudi newspaper that his troops will only defend Saudi Arabia, not attack Iraq (cf. 10/8) [MEM 10/8; WP 10/9]. 

Saddam Hussein releases 9 French hostages in what is interpreted as move to find soft spot in international embargo (cf. 10/3). Responding to Saddam's move to open "debate" with France, French leaders say they have been miscast as peacemakers by Pres. Hussein, and deny they have entered into any negotiations with Iraq. [INA 10/1 in FBIS 10/3; MEM 10/1; LAT, WP, NYT, WT 10/2].

Speaking before UN Gen. Assembly, Pres. Bush hints that Iraqi withdrawal from Kuwait could open the way for Arab-Israeli peace [LAT, WP, NYT, WT, MEM 10/2].

Joint resolution expressing Congress' endorsement of Pres. Bush handling of Gulf crisis passes the House of Representatives by vote of 380-29; resolution stops short of endorsing military action against Iraq (cf. 10/2) [LAT 10/2].

White House announces it notified Congress of its intention to give Israel 2 Patriot anti-missile batteries under provisions of law that allows for emergency transfer of military assistance from military stockpiles [LAT, MEM 10/2].

Jordan closes its borders to Gulf-bound commercial truck traffic in response to 9/30 Saudi decision to refuse entry to Jordanian trucks headed for Gulf states. Produce prices soar (cf. 10/2) [WP, NYT, WT, MEM 10/2].

UNLU call no. 62 "rejects all occupations, regardless of pretexts" and deals at length with need to keep order in schools [MEM 10/2; text in SVP 10/2 in FBIS 10/3; BVP 10/3 in FBIS 10/4].

Almost 1 year after trial began on 10/3/89, 4 Givati Brigade soldiers are con- victed of assault for beating to death Bureij camp Palestinian; sentences to be given on 10/24 (cf. 10/24) [MEM 10/2].

European Community approves at least $1.5 billion package of grants and loans for Jordan, Egypt, and Turkey, all hard hit by sanctions against Iraq [LAT, WP, MEM 10/3].

UN Sec.-Gen. Javier Perez de Cuellar meets in Amman with Iraqi F.M. Tarik Aziz for talks designed to lessen tension in Gulf (cf. 9/2) [INA 8/31 in FBIS 8/31; NYT 9/1].

Commander of U.S. forces in Saudi Arabia, Gen. H. Norman Schwarzkopf, rules out possibility of preemptive strike against Iraq, saying "there is not going to be any war unless the Iraqis attack" [LAT, NYT 9/1].

Mikhail Gorbachev says the superpowers are cooperating well in Gulf region and that he does not believe U.S. is seeking permanent military presence there [LAT 9/1].

Pres. Bush agrees to forgive Egypt's $7 billion military debt to U.S. as reward for Cairo's support of embargo against Iraq and contribution to multinational force (cf. 9/25, 9/30, 10/2) [LAT 9/1].

According to U.S. officials, Bush admin. is preparing to transfer as much as $1 billion worth of advanced weapons to Israel to buttress Israeli defenses against Iraq and offset recent arms sales to Saudi Arabia [NYT 9/1; JPI 9/8].

Israeli D.M. Arens gives permission for Vatican-run Bethlehem University to reopen [JDS 8/31 in FBIS 9/4; LAT 9/1].

UNLU call no. 61, "The Victory Call," opposes U.S. presence in Saudi Arabia [SVP 8/31 in FBIS 9/7].

Japanese P.M. Toshiki Kaifu pledges $1 billion in aid for military buildup against Iraq after U.S. officials expressed unhappiness over original aid proposal [NYT 8/31].

Middle East Watch issues human rights report accusing Israel of condoning excessive force against Palestinians, although report claims IDF recently has begun to show more restraint [MEM, LAT 7/26]; IDF rejects findings, saying Israeli Supreme Court has found IDF practices to be legal [JDS 7/25 in FBIS 7/26; FJ 7/30].

Arafat meets in Tunis with EC delegation of foreign ministers from Ireland, Italy, and Luxembourg to discuss Middle East peace process [SVP 7/25 in FBIS 7/26].

Israeli and SLA artillery hits Iqlim al-Tuffah in S. Lebanon; 2 killed, 4 wounded [LAT 7/26; JDS 7/26 in FBIS 7/26; SVP 7/27 in FBIS 7/31; JPI 8/11].