The Palestine Chronology

Voting along party lines, the House finds (228-206) grounds for Pres. Clinton's impeachment on 2 counts of perjury, obstruction of justice in the Monica Lewinsky case, moving the proceedings to the Senate. The Senate may dismiss the case, censure the pres., or vote to impeach. Clinton says that he will not resign. (NYT, WP, WT 12/20; WJW 12/24; MEI 12/25) (see 9/21)

Ramadan begins. U.S., Britain end their operation against Iraq after carrying out 650 sorties over 4 nights against 97 targets, only ¹/₃ of which were severely damaged or destroyed. At least 68 Iraqis have been killed. U.S. believes Iraq could restore its capabilities in a yr., reserves the right to use force again in the future. Albright describes U.S. policy toward Iraq as "containment plus regime change." (NYT 12/19; ITAR-TASS, MENA 12/19, MENA, YA 12/20, MA 12/21 in WNC 12/22; NYT, WP, WT 12/20; MM, WP, WT 12/21; Tishrin 12/21 in WNC 12/28; WJW 12/24; MEI 12/25)

In Syria, 1,000s protest against the U.S.-led attack on Iraq; more than 100 climb the U.S. emb. to tear down the flag and break into, vandalize the amb.'s residence; others attack the British cultural mission; lawyers strike in solidarity with Iraq. In Egypt, over 4,000 students at universities across the country demonstrate for 3d day; trade, journalists, teachers unions call for protests; pharmacists agree to boycott U.S., UK medicines. In Jordan, 2,000 students march in protest. In the West Bank, 3,000 Palestinians in Hebron, 2,500 in Jinin ignore ban on pro-Iraq demonstrations, clash with the IDF, leaving 100 injured. 15,000 Yemenis hold anti-U.S. march. 2,000 Sudanese protest outside the closed U.S. emb. Lebanon's grand mufti condemns the U.S.-led operation. (AFP, JTV, MENA, RL, SANA 12/19, JT, SANA 12/20 in WNC 12/22; NYT, WP, WT 12/20; JP 12/21; CSM 12/22; JP 12/28; al-Bayan 12/29 in WNC 12/31)

PA ends closures of TV, radio, newspaper bureaus imposed 12/18. (Times of London 12/21)

On the 3d day of its attack on Iraq, the U.S. can confirm that only 18 of its 89 targets have been severely damaged or destroyed, despite having fired more laser-guided missiles in 2 days than during the entire 1991 Gulf War. Only U.S. planes stationed in Kuwait, Oman have flown; Saudi Arabia, Turkey have not permitted their bases to be used as staging grounds. (ATL, ITV 12/18 in WNC 12/22; NYT, WP, WT 12/19; MEI 12/25)

For the 2d day, U.S.-British strikes on Iraq prompt street protests across the Middle East. 15,000 Palestinians demonstrate in Nablus, while 1,000s of others protest in Bethlehem, Gaza City, Hebron, Jinin, Ramallah. PA police break up protest in Gaza City only; the PA closes some television, radio stations, news bureaus for reporting on the demonstrations. Syria's grand mufti denounces the U.S.-led operation. Pro-Iraq demonstrations are held in Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Morocco, Yemen. (MM 12/18; SANA 12/18, al-Ra'i 12/19, JT 12/20 in WNC 12/22; NYT, WT 12/19; MEI 12/25)

Fmr. UNSCOM cheif inspector Scott Ritter claims that UNSCOM head Butler chose sites for inspection that he knew would provoke the Iraqis, then ordered halt to inspections on 12/13 to meet U.S. bombing time table; also says that the White House national security staff helped draft Butler's 12/15 report to ensure it contained sufficiently tough language to justify an attack. Butler denies showing his report to the U.S. in advance of its release, but National Security Adviser (NSA) Sandy Berger admits Butler briefed him personally 12/13. (WT 12/19; WP 12/20; MENA 12/20, al-Akhbar, MA 12/21 in WNC 12/22) (see 12/16)

PA police arrest 4 leading Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP) mbrs., 8 journalists at march marking PFLP's 31st anniversary. (NYT, WT 12/19)

Knesset approves additional NIS 20 m. to fund expanding settlements in the West Bank, Golan. (PR 1/1)

U.S. stages 2d strike on Iraq, having hit more than 50 targets with over 200 Tomahawk missiles 12/16. Democratic congressmen accuse Republicans, many of whom questioned the timing of the attacks, of being unpatriotic. Russia recalls its ambs. fr. Washington (for the 1st time since World War II), London; the Duma accuses the U.S. of "international terrorism." Lebanon denounces the operation. Jordan expresses regret. Syria opposes U.S. "double standards" in its Iraq, Israel policy. (MM 12/17; AFP, IRNA, MENA, Petra-JNA, RJ 12/17 in WNC 12/21; CSM, MM, NYT, WP, WT 12/18; al-Thawra, Tishrin 12/18 in WNC 12/28; NYT, WP, WT 12/19; MENA 12/19, SATN 12/20, al-Ahram 12/21 in WNC 12/22; MEI 12/25)

Across the West Bank and in Gaza City, Palestinians protest the U.S.-led attack on Iraq. The largest demonstration, attended by 3,000 Palestinians, is held in Nablus. In el-Bireh, the IDF shoots, kills 1 Palestinian, injures 16 others. (WP, WT 12/18; MEI 12/25)

In Egypt, the government expresses its "regret" over the U.S.-led strike on Iraq; the Arab League, al-Azhar's chief cleric denounce use of military force; Cairo University students go on hunger strike to protest; Egyptian police lock American University in Cairo students on campus to keep them fr. demonstrating. (MENA, RE 12/17 in WNC 12/21)

In Israel, Pres. Clinton urges continued implementation of Wye accord, notes progress on both sides. U.S. special envoy Ross tells PM Netanyahu that Israel must recognize that the Palestinians are entitled to aspirations to statehood. Secy. Albright asks Israeli FM Sharon to find a "creative" way to make sure that the 2d stage of FRD takes place 12/18 as called for, but he says he cannot help. (MM, NYT, WP 12/14; PR 12/18)

In Jerusalem, Clinton's senior advisers on Iraq (including CIA, Defense Dept. heads) hold teleconference with White House officials. After mtg. Secy. Albright, Defense Secy. William Cohen brief the pres. on the group's unanimous recommendation to strike Iraq. (MM 12/18; WP 12/20; MEI 12/25) (see 12/10, 12/11)

In Cairo, Egyptian, Jordanian FMs discuss final status talks, their need to coordinate with the PA on all future steps related to the peace process. (MENA, RE 12/14 in WNC 12/15)

PSF arrests Islamic Jihad leader Abdallah Shami on incitement charges for statements to the press that he would not hesitate to kill Pres. Clinton. (WT 1/23)

Egypt's Pres. Mubarak arrives in Ankara for 2-day talks with Turkey's Pres. Demirel on boosting political, economic cooperation. (MM 12/7; MENA 12/9 in WNC 12/11)

Arafat attends ceremony in Sweden to mark the 10th anniversary of his 1988 Stockholm visit in which he "renounced terrorism," sought to revive the peace process. In his speech, Arafat says that he has not set a deadline for declaring a state, that any Palestinian state wound not make alliances with parties hostile to Israel. (WP 12/7)

Nr. Ramallah, IDF breaks up demonstration by 300 Palestinians protesting Israel's release of criminals 11/20, new conditions to Wye implementation issued 12/2; injures 14. 5 Palestinians are injured in similar clashes in Bethlehem. PA Prisoners' Affairs M Hisham `Abd al-Raziq, 1,700 Palestinian prisoners begin hunger strike. (WT 12/6; WP, WT 12/7; MM 12/9; MEI 12/11; PR 12/18)

IDF demolishes 5 Palestinian homes, animal pens in Jiftlik nr. Nablus. (PR 1/8)

As the Knesset begins debate on ratification of the 10/23 Wye River Memorandum, Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu suspends the agmt.'s implementation, saying he will not carry out the 1st of 3 stages of further redeployment (FRD) required by Wye until PA head Yasir Arafat retracts his 11/15 threat to stage an uprising against Israel if Palestinian access to Jerusalem is blocked. (MM 11/16; CSM, NYT, WP, WT 11/17; WJW 11/19)

U.S. special envoy Dennis Ross meets with Arafat in Jericho. (ITV 11/16 in WNC 11/18; WT 11/17)

In Cairo, Netanyahu political adviser Uzi Arad discusses Wye agmt. with Egyptian FM `Amr Musa, who criticizes Israeli implementation delays. (MENA 11/16 in WNC 11/17, WNC 11/18)

In Gaza, Israel, Jordan, the U.S. meet to discuss the Irbid industrial zone project. (Petra-JNA 11/17 in WNC 11/19; JT 11/23 in WNC 11/24; Petra-JNA 11/23 in WNC 11/30)

In Cairo, Russia, Egypt hold high-level experts mtg. on defense cooperation. Russian DM hopes deepening military ties "will become an important factor of peace and stability in the Middle East." (Interfax, ITAR-TASS, MENA 11/16 in WNC 11/17; MENA 11/17 in WNC 11/18)

After 3 days of talks, Oman, Iran reach military cooperation agmt. to enhance Gulf security, which will include joint exercises. (IRNA 11/16 in WNC 11/17)

PM Netanyahu announces creation of Birthright Israel program, which will pay for any Jew aged 15+n26 to visit Israel in hopes of rebuilding Jewish identity of youth, who more frequently marry non-Jews, are nonpracticing. The program, expected to cost $300 m., will be funded by the Israeli government, major North American Jewish donors, the Council of Jewish Federations. (NYT 11/16; WJW 11/19, 11/26, 1/7)

Citing Israeli FM Ariel Sharon's 11/15 call for settlers to "grab" disputed West Bank land, 30 settlers fr. Keddumim set up "presettlement" on nearby hilltop. (MM 11/17; MA 11/17 in WNC 11/18; WT 11/19)

Palestinians in al-Khader protest confiscation of land for bypass road. (CSM 11/17)

Israel Defense Force (IDF) convoy triggers roadside bomb in s. Lebanon, killing 3 soldiers, wounding 4. Hizballah claims responsibility. (AFP, ITV, RL 11/16 in WNC 11/17; MM, WP 11/17; WT 11/18; MEI 11/27; JP 11/30)

U.S. continues preparations for strike on Iraq, including deployment of stealth, B-52 heavy bombers. Regarding a diplomatic resolution, White House spokesman Joe Lockhart says "We have made clear this is no time for negotiations." Damascus Declaration states (Bahrain, Egypt, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, UAE) issue statement saying that Saddam Hussein alone bears responsibility for consequences of his refusal to cooperate with the UN. (MM 11/12; MENA, Radio Qatar, al-Rayah, RE, SANA, SATN 11/12 in WNC 11/13; NYT, WT 11/13)

Israel begins accepting bids for settlement construction at Har Homa/Jabal Abu Ghunaym in East Jerusalem. (MM 11/12; MM, NYT, WP, WT 11/13; MEI 11/16)

At Rafah airport, Israeli, PA teams practice security procedures for checking passengers. (WT 11/13)

Italian police arrests PKK leader Ocalan when he arrives in Rome on flight fr. Russia. Turkey asks for his extradition. (WP 11/14; WP 11/15; NYT, WP 11/17) (see 11/4)

PM Netanyahu postpones cabinet discussion of Wye agmt. for 4th time, saying he will not convene cabinet until the PA clarifies when it will arrest 30 wanted Palestinians. Arafat accuses Netanyahu of adding new conditions to try to wreck the agmt. U.S. says Israel is seeking "extrapolations of commitments." (ITV, RE 11/4 in WNC 11/6; MM, NYT, WP, WT 11/5; SA 11/6 in WNC 11/12) (see 11/3)

In Cairo, PA Planning M Nabil Shaath, negotiator Qurai` discuss Israeli delays in Wye implementation with Pres. Mubarak, FM Musa; ask for Egypt's continued support of the PA. (MENA, RE 11/4, VOA 11/5 in WNC 11/6)

PKK leader Ocalan asks Russia for political asylum. (ATL 11/4 in WNC 11/6; NYT 11/5; ATL 11/6 in WNC 11/12) (see 10/20)

An SLA convoy triggers 2 roadside bombs nr. Jazzin in s. Lebanon, killing 3 SLA mbrs., wounding 1. (VOL 11/4)

Arafat returns to Gaza. (NYT, WP 10/29)

In Jericho, PA military court sentences 4 military intelligence officers to prison terms of 3-4 yrs. for raiding Fatah office in Ramallah 10/25. (AFP [Internet] 10/28; PR 10/30)

IDF lifts curfew on Palestinians in Israeli-controlled Hebron. (AP [Internet] 10/28; PR 11/6)

In Damascus, Syria, Turkey hold follow-up security mtg., plan to meet again in early 11/98. (ATL, SATN 10/28 in WNC 10/29) (see 10/20)

Egypt upgrades its diplomatic mission in Iran. (WP 10/29)

Amal attacks an SLA patrol in s. Lebanon, wounding 4 SLA mbrs. (VOL 10/29 in WNC 11/2)

U.S. Asst. Secy. Indyk briefs ambs. of Algeria, Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Morocco, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Tunisia, the UAE on the Wye agmt. (al-Akhbar, al-Ba'th, al-Jumhuriyya, MENA, RL 10/26, AFP 10/27 in WNC 10/28; MM, NYT, WP 10/27; MM 10/28; al-Ba'th 10/28 in WNC 11/2; al-Quds 10/28, SA 10/30, al-Ahram 11/2 in WNC 11/6; MM 10/29, 10/30; MM 11/2; WP 11/6)

In the Knesset, PM Netanyahu survives no-confidence motion, but Knesset Law Comm. agrees (9-7) to hear 1st reading of bill calling for the dissolution of parliament, new elections in 100 days. MKs criticize Netanyahu for linking Pollard with the peace process. (CSM, WP, WT 10/27)

In Gaza, the Arab Liberation Front, the Democratic Front for the Liberation of Palestine (DFLP), Hamas, Islamic Jihad, the Islamic National Salvation Party, the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP) issue statement denouncing the Wye agmt. (MENA 10/26 in WNC 10/27; PR 10/30)

200 Jewish settlers hold rally outside PM Netanyahu's office in Jerusalem, protesting the Wye agmt. At least 24 are detained by Israeli police. (ITV 10/26 in WNC 10/27; WP 10/27; YA 10/27 in WNC 10/28; MM 10/28)

Jordan, Israel begin long-delayed $1.65-m. joint project to build the `Adasiyya diversion wall to diver Yarmuk River water. (JT, RJ 10/27 in WNC 10/28; JP 211/9)

An Israeli settler is killed in Israeli-controlled Hebron in an apparent attack by Palestinians. IDF places curfew on Palestinians in Hebron's Israeli-controlled zone. Later, the body of a Palestinian is found outside Itamar settlement nr. Nablus. An anonymous caller claims Palestinian was killed to avenge the settler's death. (IDF Radio, ITV 10/26 in WNC 10/27; ITV 10/26 in WNC 10/28; CSM, LAW, MM, NYT, WP 10/27; MM 10/28; WJW 10/29; PR 10/30)

In Ramallah, Palestinians observe general strike, 100s of Fatah mbrs. march to protest 10/25 events, call on Arafat to punish security services. (NYT, WP 10/27; PR 10/30)

International experts submit final report Iraqi missile fragments to the UNSC, say results are inconclusive. Tests by Switzerland show no traces of VX; 1 sample in the 3d test by France shows traces of nerve agent that could be VX. French, Swiss, U.S. tests all show traces of unknown compound that could mask biological agents. (NYT, WP 10/27; MEI 10/30) (6/22)

U.S. says that a UN proposal to try the Pan Am bombing suspects in the Hague under Scottish law, tentatively agreed to by all parties, is in jeopardy because of Libyan demands that the 2 suspects not be imprisoned in Scotland if found guilty. (WP 10/27; WT 10/28) (see 9/29)

Pres. Clinton, King Hussein rejoin Wye talks. By evening, some agmts. have been reached, others are near. Over dinner, King Hussein gives an "impassioned speech," calling on Arafat, Netanyahu to keep making progress. Egypt's Mubarak phones Clinton to discuss the talks. (MM 10/22; VOA 10/22 in WNC 10/23; ITV, MENA 10/22 in WNC 10/26; CSM, NYT, WP, WT 10/23; JT, JTV, al-Ra'i 10/22, Shihan 10/24 in WNC 10/23 [dates as published]; JTV 10/22, IDF Radio 10/23 in WNC 10/26; NYT 10/25)

State Dept., White House meet with major U.S. oil companies to press them to build a pipeline to bring Caspian crude fr. Azerbaijan to Turkey, avoiding Russia, Iran. Oil companies do not believe the region can export enough oil in the nr. future to justify the $3.7-b. project, which the U.S. does not want to fund. (WP 10/28; MEI, WP, WT 10/30) (see 10/21)

An Israeli court orders 3 border policemen detained on suspicion of having shot at a Palestinian van 10/18. (WP 10/23) (see 10/21)

Israeli police arrest a mbr. of a right-wing Jewish group for carrying out 7 knife attacks on Palestinians in Jerusalem btwn. 11/97 and 5/98, killing 1. (AFP [Internet] 10/22)

After a brief 3-way mtg. at the White House, Pres. Clinton, Arafat, PM Netanyahu, their delegations head to Wye Plantation in Maryland for negotiations. (MM, WJW 10/15; MM, NYT, WP, WT 10/16; YA 10/16 in WNC 10/19; al-Akhbar 10/16 in WNC 10/20)

Egypt's Pres. Mubarak, Jordan's King Hussein discuss Wye talks by phone. In Cairo, Jordanian PM Tarawnah briefs Mubarak on Crown Prince Hassan's mtgs. with Arafat (10/12), Netanyahu (10/14). (MENA 10/15 in WNC 10/16; JTV 10/15 in WNC 10/19)

Lebanese parliament elects (118-0, with 10 absentees, including Druze leader Junblatt, his bloc) Gen. Lahoud as Lebanon's new pres. He will take office 11/24. (MM 10/15; RL 10/15 in WNC 10/16; SATN 10/15 in WNC 10/19; al-Nahar 10/15, RL 10/18 in WNC 10/20; NYT, WP, WT 10/16; RL 10/16 in WNC 10/19; al-Ittihad 10/18 in WNC 10/23; IRNA 10/19 in WNC 10/21; MM 10/28) (see 10/13)

Turkey rejects Syrian offer to discuss water sharing, says Syria must first drop support for Kurdish separatists. (NYT, WP 10/16; HUR 10/16 in WNC 10/19) (see 10/14)

PSF detains 2 Israelis outside PA negotiator Abbas's home in al-Bireh. The Israelis, who turn out to be settler security guards dressed in civilian clothes, claim they entered th PA area to pursue stone-throwers. (PR 10/23)

30 Jewish settlers led by a Molodet party MK occupy a vacant Palestinian home in East Jerusalem, sparking scuffles with Palestinians. 100 Israeli policemen are brought in to quell the disturbances. (IDF Radio 10/15 in WNC 10/19; NYT 10/16; PR 10/23)

Unidentified assailants fire bomb several Palestinian homes in Bethlehem, seriously damaging 1. Palestinians blame local Jewish settlers. (AFP [Internet] 10/17)

In Amman, Arafat consults with Crown Prince Hassan on upcoming Washington talks. (RJ 10/12, al-Dustur 10/13 in WNC 10/14)

Egyptian FM Musa shuttles btwn. Ankara, Damascus to mediate their dispute. Turkey, Syria say that they see signs of defusing the crisis. (MM 10/12; ATL, al-Hadath, MENA, SATN 10/12, MENA 10/13 in WNC 10/14; WP, WT 10/13; AFP, MENA, Sabah 10/13, SA 10/14 in WNC 10/15; MEI 10/16)

In Tehran, Iran, Turkey set up comm. to demarcate their common border. (IRNA 10/12 in WNC 10/14)

Secy. Albright holds 2d round of mtgs. with Arafat, Netanyahu. Netanyahu then heads to Ariel settlement for celebration marking Ariel's new city status (see 6/11) also attended by DM Mordechai, Infrastructures M Ariel Sharon. (MM 10/6; ITV 10/6, JT 10/7 in WNC 10/8; NYT, WP 10/7; ITV 10/7 in WNC 10/9; NYT 10/8; PR 10/9; MEI 10/16; JP 10/17)

CIA Dir. George Tenet meets with Israeli, PA officials on security MOU. Israel, PA reach understanding on long-delayed opening of Gaza industrial park after an FRD agmt. is finalized, discuss forming an "anti-incitement" comm. (WP 10/8; ITV, QY 10/13 in WNC 10/15; MEI, PR 10/16) (see 9/8)

While Egypt's Mubarak shuttles btwn. Turkey's Demirel in Ankara and Syria's Asad in Damascus, Turkish PM Mesut Yilmaz cancels leaves for all troops, gives Syria a "last warning" on support for Kurdish separatists. (MM 10/6; ATL, ESC Television, INA, ITAR-TASS, MENA 10/6 in WNC 10/7; MENA, al-Sabil, SATN 10/6, ATL, al-Dustur 10/7 in WNC 10/8; CSM, MM, WP, WT 10/7; ATL, HA, HUR, Iran News, al-Liwa', MENA, MIL 10/7, ATL, MIL 10/8 in WNC 10/9; MM 10/8; MA 10/9 in WNC 10/14) (see 10/5)

In s. Lebanon, Hizbullah mbrs. detonate roadside bombs as an IDF convoy passes, killing 2 soldiers, wounding 6. (MM 10/6; WT 10/7; JP 10/17)

Secy. Albright, envoy Ross, Asst. Secy. of State Martin Indyk arrive in the Middle East to prepare for talks in Washington beginning 10/15. Albright meets with Netanyahu, then travels to Gaza to meet with Arafat. (MM 10/5; HA [Internet], WT 10/6)

Turkish pres. Demirel postpones mtg. with Egyptian pres. Mubarak that was set for today. Jordan's Crown Prince Hassan phones Demirel to urge him to find a diplomatic solution to crisis with Syria. (MM 10/5; ATL, JT, RJ, RL 10/5 in WNC 10/6; IRIB Television, JTV, Petra-JNA, SATN 10/5, IRNA, Petra-JNA, Sabah 10/6 in WNC 10/7; CSM 10/6; MEI 10/16) (see 10/4)

In a mtg. with outgoing Lebanese pres. Ilyas Hrawi in Damascus, Syrian pres. Asad taps army chief Gen. Emile Lahoud as the next Lebanese pres. Lahoud is widely considered to be an incorrupt, popular "new face," untainted by politics and unlikely to draw the military into the government. (RL, SANA 10/5 in WNC 10/6; AFP, RL al-Safir, SANA 10/5, RL, VOL 10/6 in WNC 10/7; MM, WP, WT 10/7; RL 10/7 in WNC 10/8; RL, RMC 10/8 in WNC 10/9; al-Watan al-Arabi 10/9 in WNC 10/15; Petra-JNA 10/11 in WNC 10/14; MM 10/12; MEI 10/16)

In s. Lebanon, Amal detonates 2 bombs as an IDF-SLA patrol passes, killing 1 IDF soldier, wounding 4. (AFP, RL, VOL 10/5 in WNC 10/6)

Egyptian pres. Mubarak meets with Syrian pres. Asad in Damascus on 1st leg of shuttle aimed at reducing avoiding military conflict btwn. Syria, Turkey. Syria also accepts Iran's offer to mediate. To reassure Syria, Israel scales back its routine maneuvers in the Golan. (IRIB Television, Radio Kuwait, SATN 10/4, ATL, MENA, RL, VOA 10/5 in WNC 10/6; CSM, MM, NYT, WP, WT 10/5; HUR, Sabah 10/5, MA, al-Quds 10/6 in WNC 10/7; al-Quds al-Arabi 10/5 in WNC 10/14; MM 10/6, 10/7; WP 10/8) (see 10/3)

U.S. holds 1-day naval exercise with Algeria as part of a quiet effort to rebuild ties; says maneuvers are a reward to Algeria for allowing foreign groups to investigate human rights allegations, not backing of it's war against Islamists. However, State Dept. says that "we're not going to . . . join their war until we're sure they are for reform and the human rights situation gets better." (WP 11/12)

Clashes btwn. Palestinians, IDF continue in Hebron, spread to Halhul. IDF says curfew will remain in place indefinitely. PSF arrests 2 prominent Hamas activists, 10 other suspected Hamas mbrs. in Hebron. (ITV 10/4 in WNC 10/6; HA [Internet] 10/6; PR 10/9)

Jewish settlers at the Ma'ate Hever settlement nr. Hebron move their boundary fences to enclose another 7 acres of Palestinian land. (MEI 10/16)

In Amman, PA negotiator Abbas briefs Crown Prince Hassan on Albright and Ross's upcoming visit. (JTV 10/3 in WNC 10/6)

Turkish jets buzz the Syrian border, while in Riyadh, Egypt's Mubarak discusses Turkish-Syrian situation with Saudi Arabia's King Fahd. Jordan also offers to mediate. (ATL, JTV, MENA, Petra-JNA, SATN 10/3, MENA 10/4 in WNC 10/6; MM, WP, WT 10/5; MIL 10/5 in WNC 10/8; MM 10/6) (see 10/2)

In Ramallah, Ross holds 3-hr. session with Arafat, who says the PA will not accept any changes to the U.S. 13.1% FRD proposal. (MM 9/9; ITV, RJ 9/9 in WNC 9/11; NYT, WT 9/10)

In Cairo, Netanyahu aides Dani Nave, Uzi Arad meet with Pres. Mubarak in a bid to persuade Egypt to press the PA to agree to Israeli FRD proposals. (WT 9/9; ITV, MENA 9/9 in WNC 9/11; MM 9/10)

UN Security Council (UNSC) unanimously votes to suspend periodic reviews of economic sanctions on Iraq, meaning that Iraq will no longer have guaranteed opportunities to challenge the sanctions. (NYT, WP, WT 9/10; MM 9/11)

In s. Lebanon, 2 SLA mbrs. are killed, 4 are wounded by a roadside bomb. (VOL 9/9 in WNC 9/11)

In Oslo, Norwegian FM Knut Vollebaek hosts dinner to celebrate 5th anniversary of the initialing of the Oslo Accord on 8/20/93. Fmr. Israeli PM Shimon Peres, PA negotiator Ahmad Qurai`, fmr. Israeli negotiator Uri Savir, U.S. special envoy Dennis Ross attend. (WP 8/24)

France says there is "no compelling evidence" that the target the U.S. struck in Sudan 8/20 was tied to terrorism. Russia has already termed strikes on Afghanistan, Sudan "state terrorism." Israel has been the only country to applaud the U.S. attacks. (MM 8/24)

Egyptian FM Amr Musa arrives in Syria for 1-day visit, meets with FM Faruq al-Shara` on the peace process. (MENA, SANA 8/23 in WNC 8/26)

Israeli cabinet approves construction of permanent structures in Tal Rumayda where a settler was killed 8/20, thereby sanctioning creation of a new settlement. (Settlers at Tal Rumayda live in mobile homes.) IDF lifts curfew on Hebron briefly but reimposes it when 50 Jewish settlers attack Palestinians stocking up on food at the central market. (MM, WP, WT 8/24; CSM 8/25; MA 8/25 in WNC 8/27; PR 8/28; JP 8/29; MEI 9/4)

U.S. transfers to Jordan Egypt's $50-m. contribution to the Peace and Stability fund. (JT 8/24 in WNC 8/26)

Hizballah detonates a roadside bomb in s. Lebanon, killing 2 IDF soldiers, 1 Israeli civilian contracted to the IDF. Israeli planes bomb Hizballah targets, injuring 1 civilian. (MM 8/21; RL, VOL 8/21 in WNC 8/24; WP 8/22; MEI 9/4)

In Marsa Matruh, Egyptian pres. Husni Mubarak meets with Arafat on the peace process, possible international summit. (MENA 8/18 in WNC 8/19; ESC Television 8/29 in WNC 8/20)

PA bans visits by Jews to Joseph's Tomb in Nablus after Jewish settlers, allowed by the IDF regional cmdr. to stay in the tomb for 1 mo. to observe a mourning period for 2 Yitzhar settlers killed 8/5, announce that they are going to establish a permanent settlement there. (MM 8/19; MEI, PR 9/4)

Numerous media reports claim that Egypt has arrested Fatah Revolutionary Council leader Sabri al-Banna (Abu Nidal) in Cairo, but Egypt denies them. Abu Nidal is known for staging lethal attacks on Israeli, Jewish, PLO targets in the 1970s, 1980s. (MM 8/18; HA, MA, YA in IGPO 8/18; al-Quds, SA 8/24 in WNC 8/26; MM, NYT, WP, WT 8/26; MENA 8/26 in WNC 8/27; NYT 8/27; WT 8/31; MEI 9/4; AFP 9/12) (see 8/18)

In s. Lebanon, 2 IDF soldiers are killed in clash with Hizballah. (RL 8/18 in WNC 8/19)

PM Netanyahu says that he wants PA-Israeli negotiations to be expanded to include issues other than FRD. PA says that it entered the latest round of talks with the understanding that they would address 2 issues only: FRD, the PLO charter. No progress has been made in the talks thus far. (ITV 7/21 in WNC 7/23; WT 7/22)

Arafat, Israeli DM Mordechai separately consult Egypt's Pres. Mubarak regarding the latest round of negotiations. (MENA, RE 7/21 in WNC 7/23; WT 7/22; NYT 7/23)

EU special envoy Moratinos meets with Israeli FMin. officials. (WJW 7/23)

King Hussein announces that tests fr. his last visit to the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN, on 7/14 indicate that he has lymphatic cancer. (RJ 7/21, 7/22 in WNC 7/23, WT 7/22; RJ 7/22 in WNC 7/24; MM, WP 7/23; MEI 7/31)

At Rep. Gingrich's invitation, a PA delegation led by PC Speaker Qurai` arrives in Washington to meet with congressmen. This is the 1st time that Palestinian lawmakers have been invited to Capitol Hill since the PC was elected in 1/96. (WT 7/21; MM 7/23)

The Senate proposes same reductions in Egyptian, Israeli aid as the House did 7/15. Debates on the House and Senate versions will not be completed until 9/98 at the earliest. (WJW 7/23)

U.S. Principal Dep. Secy. of State for Near Eastern Affairs David Welch returns fr. leading delegation (including Turkish officials) on 5-day trip to n. Iraq to attempt to reconcile the Kurdistan Democratic Party, the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan. The U.S. hopes to unite the 2 groups to increase pressure on Iraqi pres. Saddam Hussein. (GIU 7/17; MM 7/20, 7/30) (see 6/17)

Amal, Hizballah meet to discuss ways of coordinating their actions against the IDF, SLA in s. Lebanon. (RL 7/22 in WNC 7/23)

In s. Lebanon, an SLA convoy triggers a roadside bomb, killing 1 mbr., wounding 2. (VOL 7/21 in WNC 7/23) (see 5/10)

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)

In Damascus, Pres. Asad receives congressional delegation led by Rep. Tom Campbell (R-CA), fmr. congressman Wayne Owens for talks on the peace process. U.S. Amb. to Syria Ryan Crocker also attends. (SANA 7/4 in WNC 7/7)

Egypt, Iran agree to set up joint company to market, export pharmaceuticals. (MENA 7/4 in WNC 7/7)

3 Jewish settlers ride horseback through the Palestinian sector of Hebron, smashing Palestinian cars with chains, iron bars. (WT 7/5; MM 7/6; WJW 7/9; JP 7/11)

Hizballah shells SLA post in s. Lebanon, wounding 2 SLA men. (VOL 7/4 in WNC 7/7)

PM Netanyahu's security cabinet holds session to discuss the "growing Palestinization and religious radicalization among Israeli Arabs." (MA 7/7 in WNC 7/13)

Israeli pres. Weizman, PM Netanyahu meet for 1st time in over a mo., agree to halt their public debate over the peace process. (MM 7/1; CSM, MM, WP 7/2; JP 7/11) (see 6/30)

Israeli air force (IAF) cmdr. Eytan Ben-Eliyahu says that most of the present aircraft fleet is outdated, the IAF needs 100 modern fighter jets. (YA 7/1 in WNC 7/6) (see 6/28)

1st civil guard is formed in the Jewish settlement of Beitar Ilit. Other guard centers are being set up in Kiryat Arba, Ma'ale Adumim, Givat Ze'ev settlements. Units are planned in Efrat, Har Hadar, Oranit settlements. (PR 7/10) (see 6/11)

Syrian FMin. Undersecy. Adnan Umran arrives in Turkey for 2-day visit to discuss normalizing diplomatic relations. (WT 7/1; Anatolia 7/1 in WNC 7/2; Anatolia 7/1, 7/2 in WNC 7/6; WT 7/3; Milliyet 7/4 in WNC 7/7; MEI 7/31)

In Cairo, Egypt, Iran discuss enhancing media cooperation. (IRNA 7/1 in WNC 7/6)

Group representing 800 U.S. finance officials threatens to boycott Swiss banks unless they settle Holocaust era claims. U.S. administration opposes the threat of sanctions, which could disrupt U.S.-Swiss relations, trigger free trade dispute. (WT 7/3)

Israel reinforces troops in s. Lebanon, sending in more than 20 vehicles, including Merkava tanks, 175-mm. guns, surveillance cameras. (RL 7/1 in WNC 7/2)

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)

Pres. Clinton vetoes the IMPSA; says bill is inflexible, will not stop missile proliferation, will needlessly harm relations with Russia. IMPSA passed by 392-22 in the House on 11/12/97, 90-4 in Senate on 5/22/98, meaning chances that veto will be overridden are high. (YA 6/26 in WNC 6/29; Near East Report 6/29)

Pres. Clinton sends letter of response to CPMAJO's 5/14 letter, saying that the U.S. will not pressure Israel to take decisions, will not make decisions on Israel's behalf on matters which concern Israeli security. (PR 7/3)

Egyptian FM Musa arrives in Saudi Arabia for talks on bilateral relations, possible Arab summit. (MENA 6/23 in WNC 6/25)

PA, Turkey signed education cooperation agmt. for 1998 to 2000. (Anatolia 6/23 in WNC 6/25)

IDF demolishes 5 Palestinian homes nr. Hebron, evicts 30 bedouin families. (LAW 6/25; PR 6/26)

New U.S. amb. to Syria, Ryan Crocker, presents his credential to FM Shara`. Crocker has also served as amb. to Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Lebanon, Qatar. (MM, WP 6/24)

Saudi Arabia, Yemen say that they have agreed on demarcation of 66% of their common border. Border fr. Jabal al-Thar to Ras al-Mawaj, 3 Red Sea islands remain in dispute. The 2 countries clashed over the boundary placement in 1994, 1995. (WT 6/24) (see 5/26)

IDF demolishes 23d Palestinian home this mo., bringing to 81 the number of Palestinian homes demolished since the beginning of the year. By comparison, 171 Palestinian homes were demolished in 1997. (NYT, WT 6/23) (see 6/18)

Mbrs. of Elad settler group raid a Palestinian bakery in East Jerusalem, claim that it is located on land which is to be confiscated by Israel. (PR 6/26)

Egypt, Turkey sign memorandum of understanding on construction of pipeline which would transport natural gas fr. Egypt to Turkey via the Mediterranean. (Anatolia 6/22 in WNC 6/23)

UNSCOM claims to have proof, based on evidence obtained in confidential U.S. army laboratory analysis, that Iraq put VX nerve gas in missile warheads before the 1991 Gulf War. (WP 6/23; MM 6/24, 6/25) (see 6/18)

Hamas's Shaykh Yasin arrives in Egypt fr. the Sudan on his way home to Gaza. (MENA 6/22 in WNC 6/23) (see 6/8)

Lebanese authorities arrest 10 suspects in connection with grenade attack nr. U.S. embassy 6/21. (RL 6/22 in WNC 6/23)