The Palestine Chronology

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers attacked Palestinians harvesting olives in Yamun and damaged their vehicle. Israeli settlers also threw stones at Palestinian vehicles in Awarta, causing damage. Elsewhere, Israeli settlers set fire to a school in Zanuta, causing extensive damage. Israeli forces shot and killed a Palestinian during a raid in Balata refugee camp. Israeli forces also shot and injured 6 Palestinians, including a child, during raids in ad-Doha, ‘Asira al-Qibliya, Jenin, and Balata refugee camp. 45 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in and around Jenin, Ramallah, Jericho, Nablus, Bethlehem, and Hebron. In East Jerusalem, Israeli settlers toured the Haram al-Sharif compound. Israeli forces demolished a Palestinian-owned home in Isawiya, displacing 6, and a structure in Silwan. In Gaza, the Israeli military said it had encircled Jabalia refugee camp. Israeli soldiers continued their sieges of the Indonesian and al-Shifa hospitals; around 500 patients and staff were evacuated from the Indonesian Hospital to a hospital in Khan Yunis later in the day. At least 120 Palestinians were killed in Israeli airstrikes on Nuseirat refugee camp, Gaza City, Jabalia refugee camp, Beit Lahiya al-Bureij, and Khan Yunis. Israel also attacked al-Awda Hospital, killing 3 doctors and a patient. The number of fatalities was likely much higher since the Gaza Ministry of Health was unable to communicate with hospitals and civil defense members in northern Gaza. 2 Israeli soldiers were killed. 10 rockets were fired at Israel with 1 hitting Ness Ziona; no injuries were reported. In Lebanon, Israeli forces attacked several areas of South Lebanon, saying anti-tank missiles were fired by Hezbollah at Israel. 4 people, including an elderly woman and 2 journalists working for Al-Mayadeen television network, were killed in Israeli attacks in Kfar Kila and Tair Harfa. 4 Hamas members were killed in a drone strike on Chaatiyeh, reportedly including deputy chief of the Qassem Brigades in Lebanon Khalil Kharraz. Hezbollah later said it attacked Israeli tanks and soldiers, a military base in Beit Hilal, and a missile factory in Shlomi. (AJ, AJ, AJ, AP, HA, REU, REU, REU, REU, REU, UNOCHA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 11/21)

The Gaza Ministry of Health was not able to fully update the casualty figures due to a collapse in services and communications at hospitals in northern Gaza, leaving the casualty numbers at around 13,000 Palestinians killed, including 5,500 children and 3,500 women, and around 32,000 injured in Israeli airstrikes on Gaza since 10/7. At least 3,250 people were missing in rubble, including 1,700 children. 209 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces and settlers in the West Bank and East Jerusalem since 10/7, including 52 children. More than 2,885 people have been injured. Israel reported that 1,200 Israelis and foreign nationals have been killed and 5,431 have been injured since 10/7. 73 Israeli soldiers have been killed in Gaza since the ground invasion began on 10/27. Over 1.61 million Palestinians, around 70% of the population of Gaza, have been displaced since 10/7. There has been a complete electricity blackout in Gaza since 10/12 due to the Israel blockade. As of 11/6, at least 40,000 housing units had been destroyed and 220,000 had been damaged in Israeli airstrikes since 10/7, constituting 45% of all housing units. 2 trucks carrying 17,000 gallons of fuel and 79 trucks carrying aid entered Gaza via the Rafah crossing. UNRWA said 108 members of its staff have been killed in Israeli airstrikes since 10/7. (AJ, AP, HA, UNOCHA 11/21)

Palestinian poet Mosab Abu Toha was released after being arrested on 11/18 by Israeli forces in Gaza. Abu Toha was reportedly beaten while detained. (AJ, HA, NYT 11/21)

The Ministry of National Economy in the Nablus governorate said Israel had only allowed 45 Palestinian businesses to operate in Huwwara since 10/7, forcing 255 business to close. (AJ 11/21)

Jordan said Israel had ordered the evacuation of its field hospital in Gaza, saying it would not heed the order. (AJ, HA 11/21)

Hamas said it had agreed to the terms of the first prisoner exchange and temporary ceasefire. Islamic Jihad said it was coordinating with Hamas on the prisoner exchange deal. The Israeli war, security, and government cabinets convened in separate meetings in the evening to discuss the deal. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the deal was likely to happen, despite opposition from National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, and that Israel would continue its war on Gaza after the temporary ceasefire. The meeting of the government cabinet was still ongoing at the end of the day. It was reported by Haaretz that the Israeli public would have 24 hours to appeal to the Israeli High Court of Justice if the government decides to approve the deal. Islamic Jihad said an Israeli captive it had tried to release earlier for humanitarian reasons had died. (AJ, AJ, HA, HA, HA, HA, REU, REU, REU 11/21; AJ, HA 11/22)

Jordanian prime minister Bisher Khasawneh said “[a]ny displacement [of Palestinians in the West Bank] or creating the conditions that would lead to it, Jordan will consider it a declaration of war and constitute a material breach of the peace treaty.” (AJ, HA, REU 11/21)

Lebanese caretaker prime minister Najib Mikati condemned the Israeli killing of 2 Lebanese journalists, saying Israel’s “goal is to silence the media that exposes its crimes and attacks.” (AJ, AP 11/21)

U.S. national security council spokesperson John Kirby said the U.S. would not support Israeli military action in southern Gaza unless it “clearly articulated [a] plan for how they are going to protect the lives of the hundreds of thousands of people that have now added to the population because they were asked to leave by the Israelis.” Kirby also said that the Biden administration was considering redesignating the Yemeni Houthi government a terrorist organization, citing its attacks on Israel and the seizure of an alleged Israeli-linked vessel on 11/19. Pentagon deputy press secretary Sabrina Singh said the U.S. continued to supply Israel with “155 mm rounds, precision-guided munitions, and air defense systems.” Politico reported that the U.S. had sent Israel the coordinates for humanitarian sites, including hospitals, and gave Israel information about the movement of aid groups to avoid Israeli attacks on protected groups. However, Israel reportedly continued attacking those sites. (AJ, AJ, HA, REU 11/21; AJ 11/22)

A survey by the organization Arab World for Research and Development found that 98% of Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza said they could not “forgive nor forget” Israel’s attacks on Gaza, with 65% saying the attacks were targeting all Palestinians. 75% said they supported Operation Al-Aqsa Flood to some extent. 22% said they expected the PA to return to power in Gaza. (AJ 11/21)

The European Commission said its review of its aid to Palestine did not find evidence that funds were used for Hamas. (AJ, HA, REU 11/21)

Representatives from the OIC and Arab League and the foreign ministers of the PA, Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, and Jordan met with Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov in Moscow. Egyptian foreign minister Sameh Shoukry said Israel’s goal with bombing southern Gaza was to force Palestinians to flee Gaza. (AJ, HA, WAFA 11/21)

Leaders of the BRICS countries met virtually to discuss the situation in Gaza, demanding a ceasefire and condemning attacks on civilians in Gaza and Israel. Representatives of Saudi Arabia, Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the UAE, all countries that will join BRICS in 2024, also attended the meeting. Saudi crown prince Mohammad bin Salman called for a global ban on exports of arms to Israel. (AJ, AJ, AP, HA, NYT, REU, REU 11/21)

The South African parliament voted 248-91 to close the Israeli embassy and suspend ties with Israel. The motion was non-binding, leaving President Cyril Ramaphosa to implement it. (AJ, AJ, HA, WAFA 11/21)

The Scottish parliament voted 90-28 in favor of a ceasefire. All parties except for the Scottish Conservatives supported the motion. (AJ 11/21)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers shot and killed 4 Palestinians and injured 9 others in Qusra. Israeli settlers also raided Shaab Forsa in the Masafer Yatta area, destroying solar panels and water tanks and uprooting fruit trees. Elsewhere, Israeli settlers attacked Palestinian vehicles traveling near Burqa, damaging 3. Israeli forces shot and killed a Palestinian at a checkpoint near Bayt Jala. Israeli forces also shot and killed a Palestinian minor in Bani Na’im. Elsewhere, Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in Hebron, Beit Fajjar, Abud, Fawwar refugee camp, al-Bireh, Huwwara, Beit Furik, Arrabah, Nabi Salih, al-Khader, Deir Istiya, and Burin, injuring 21 with live ammunition, including at least 1 minor, 3 with baton rounds, and many others with tear gas. Israeli forces also raided Idhna and Beit Umar, arresting 18. 35 Palestinian families, comprising 214 people, began fleeing the Wadi as Seeq and al-Mu’arajat communities near Ramallah after continued settler attacks. In East Jerusalem, Israeli settlers toured the Haram al-Sharif compound. In Gaza, Israeli forces attacked the home of Izzeddin al-Qassam commander Mohammed Deif killing several of his relatives, including his children, and assassinated Islamic Jihad commander Mousa Nasser in Beit Lahiya. Hundreds of Palestinians were killed in Israeli airstrikes, including at least 4 Palestinian medics. Israeli airstrikes also destroyed the Islamic University’s engineering school and the headquarters of the Palestinian Red Crescent Society. Rockets were fired from Gaza into Israel. In Lebanon, Hezbollah said it had fired precision missiles at Israel in response to Israel killing members of the organization. Israeli airstrikes hit southern Lebanon. (AP 10/7; AJ, HA 10/10; AP, HA, HA, HA, REU, REU, REU, REU, UNOCHA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 10/11; HA, REU, UNOCHA, WAFA 10/12)

Gaza’s sole power plant ran out of fuel in the afternoon. The Gaza Ministry of Health said at least 1,100 Palestinians have been killed and 5,339 have been injured in Israeli airstrikes on Gaza since 10/7 as of 2 p.m. 28 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces and settlers in the West Bank and East Jerusalem since 10/7, including 5 children, and 427 have been injured. In addition, 1,500 Palestinian militants are reported to have been killed by Israeli forces in Israel since 10/7. The Gaza Ministry of Health said 60% of injured Palestinians are children and elderly. UNRWA said 11 of its workers have been killed in Israeli airstrikes and the Red Crescent said 5 of its members have been killed since 10/7. Israeli media reported that as of 9 a.m., more than 1,200 Israeli and foreign nationals had been killed and 3,192 injured. The UN reported that 338,934 Palestinians have been displaced since 10/7 and 4,625 housing units in Gaza have been destroyed while 32,000 had been damaged. (AP 10/7; AJ 10/10; AJ, AJ, AP, HA, HA, REU, UNOHCA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 10/11; WAFA 10/12) 

Al Jazeera released a video that appeared to show militants releasing an Israeli woman and 2 children near the Gaza fence. (AJ, AJ 10/11)

Ramallah governor Laila Ghannam said some 600 Palestinian workers from Gaza had arrived in Ramallah after being expelled from Israel. (AP 10/7; AJ 10/10; AJ 10/12)

Israeli national security minister Itamar Ben-Gvir said on X that he had instructed the Israeli police to prepare for “Operation Guardian of the Walls 2,” a reference to Israel’s operation during the Unity Intifada, and approved residents of Sderot receiving weapons from the state. (HA 10/11)

Egyptian officials told Reuters that Egypt rejects the idea of an evacuation of Palestinians to Egypt. (REU 10/11)

Former Hamas political leader Khaled Mashal called on the Arab world to protest in solidarity with Palestinians on 10/13. (HA, REU 10/11)

Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdoğan called Israel’s blockade and bombing of Gaza “a massacre.” Erdoğan also called the Israeli bombings “disproportionate.” Turkish officials also said they are negotiating with Hamas regarding the Israeli captives. (AJ 10/10; AJ, HA, REU 10/11)

The Arab League released a statement after a meeting of its members’ foreign ministers, calling for an immediate ceasefire, condemning the targeting of civilians, urging Israel to lift its blockade on Gaza, and calling for negotiations between the PLO and Israel for a just peace. (WAFA 10/11)

German foreign minister Boris Pistorius said Germany had allowed Israel to use 2 of its Heron combat drones and that Israel had requested ammunition from Germany, which was under review. (AJ 10/11; AP 10/12)

Iranian president Ebrahim Raisi and Saudi crown prince Mohammed bin Salman spoke about the situation in Gaza. According to the Saudi Press Agency, bin Salman said that he stands firm toward supporting the Palestinian cause. It was the first time the 2 leaders have spoken to each other. (AJ 10/10; AJ 10/11; AJ, REU 10/12)

Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with National Unity Party leader Benny Gantz, agreeing to form an emergency unity government and a war cabinet. The war cabinet will consist of Netanyahu, Gantz, and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, with former military chief of staff Gadi Eizenkot of the National Unity Party and Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer as observers. Opposition leader Yair Lapid did not join the emergency government, reportedly because he wants National Security Minister Ben-Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich removed. Gallant said “[w]e will wipe Hamas off the face of the earth,” and Netanyahu said “[e]very member of Hamas is a dead man,” and compared Hamas to ISIS. (AJ 10/10; AJ, HA, HA, HA 10/11; AJ, HA, HA 10/12; HA 10/13)

U.S. president Joe Biden gave a speech to Jewish American leaders, telling them “I never really thought I would see, have confirmed pictures of terrorists beheading children.” The White House later told the Washington Post “[t]he president based his comments about the alleged atrocities on the claims of Netanyahu’s spokesman and media reports from Israel,” noting that Biden and his team have not seen pictures or confirmed the reports. Hamas denied the report, calling it “Zionist slander and lies” and rejecting that Palestinians beheaded children and assaulted women. The U.S. State Department said 22 Americans have been killed and 17 were unaccounted for. Biden also spoke with Prime Minister Netanyahu. (AJ, AJ, HA 10/11; AJ, CNN, HA, REU 10/12)

U.S. House Foreign Affairs Committee chair Michael McCaul (R-TX) said the U.S. knew that Egypt warned Israel 3 days prior to the Hamas operation that “an event like this could happen.” (AJ 10/10; HA 10/11)

Israel’s military assault on the Gaza Strip (Operation Pillar of Defense) continues, and projectile fire from Palestinian factions into Israel intensifies. The IDF kills 9 Palestinians, bringing the death toll since 11/14 to 19, including 6 children. The IDF claims to have struck a total of 300 ‘‘terror activity’’ sites in the Gaza Strip, deploying air strikes, tank, and naval shelling and destroying 70 unmanned missile launch sites. The Israeli army also calls up 30,000 army reservists to prepare for a potential ground invasion. Three Israelis are killed by a rocket fired from the Gaza Strip that hits a residential building in Kiryat Malakhi. The IDF cites an estimated 270 rockets fired by Palestinian factions since the start of the Israeli military assault, with over 100 shot down by the Iron Dome missile defense/intercept system. Meanwhile, the Israeli daily Ha’Aretz reports that Hamas leader Ahmad Jabari was negotiating a permanent truce agreement with Israel just hours before his assassination on 11/14 (see Selections from the Press in JPS 166). (BBC, HA, MNA, REU 11/15, 11/16)

Internationally, the U.S. continues to show support for Israel’s operation, with the Senate unanimously passing a resolution backing Israel’s right to defend itself (62 senators were cosponsors). Egypt, Jordan, Russia, and Turkey all condemn Israel’s use of force as disproportionate, while Hizballah leader Hasan Nasrallah calls on Arab countries to support Hamas. PA pres. Mahmud Abbas calls for an urgent Arab League meeting, and Egypt and Tunisia announce plans to send delegations to the Gaza Strip on 11/16 and 11/18 respectively. (Guardian, REU, ToI 11/15)

For a 3d night, Jordanians in various cities across Jordan protest against King Abdullah and a reduction in public fuel subsidies. Islamist opposition groups vow to keep up the demonstrations. Gunmen attack 2 police stations, sparking a clash that leaves 1 attacker dead and 17 people injured (including 13 police officers). (AP, NYT 11/15)

The Arab League closes its 2-day emergency session, issuing a nonbinding resolution calling for a $1 b. Palestinian aid fund, recommending Arab states postpone further normalization with Israel. Tunisia orders Israel to shut its representative offices it Tunis. (MM, NYT, WP, WT 10/23; MENA 10/23; HJ, IRNA 10/24 in WNC 10/25; HJ 10/24, 1025 HJ, SA 10/26 in WNC 10/30; WJW 10/26; MEI 10/27)

Barak formally suspends the peace process. In response, Arafat states that Palestinians have a right to an independent state with Jerusalem as its capital and "to accept it or not to accept--let [Barak] go to hell." Meanwhile, Israeli-Palestinian clashes escalate further, leaving 4 Palestinians dead, over 100 injured; 2 others die of injuries received earlier. The most violent exchange is nr. Bethlehem, where the IDF orders residents of Aida camp, Bayt Jala, Bayt Sahur to evacuate their homes before ordering machine guns, tanks, and helicopter gunships to fire into the area, targeting buildings fr. which snipers shot into nearby Gilo settlement and destroying 2 Palestinian factories, several houses, a power plant. The gunfire continues overnight. In Gaza, the IDF bulldozes Palestinian agricultural land along roads leading to Morag settlement. Israel also recloses the Gaza airport, reinstates the internal closure on PA areas, shuts crossings into Egypt and Jordan. (ADM 10/22; BDL, LAW, MM, NYT, WP, WT 10/23; MM 10/24; MA 10/24 in WNC 10/25; MEI 10/27; AYM 11/12 in WNC 11/13)

In Cairo, 1,000s of Egyptian students protest the failure of the Arab League summit to cut ties with or to call for military action against Israel. There are also reports of at least 1 Palestinian protest in Bethlehem denouncing Arab leaders, especially Mubarak, for the weak Arab League statement. Other rallies in support of the Palestinians are held in Bahrain, London, Ottawa. (WP 10/23; HJ 10/24, SA 10/26 in WNC 10/30; Bahrain Freedom Movement press release 10/25; MM 10/26)

Barak announces an inquiry will be held into the deaths of Israeli Arabs during the recent clashes and a 4-yr. development plan for Israeli Arab areas. Israeli Arabs complain that the inquiry's recommendations will be nonbinding. (NYT 10/23; WJW 10/26; MM 10/30)

Israeli-Palestinian clashes escalate again. In Ramallah, 2 IDF reservists--"at least partially in uniform," driving a private vehicle, most likely armed--stray deep into area A, cross paths with a funeral procession. The crowd, assuming the soldiers are on an undercover operation, attack them and set their car afire. (Some reports say a body burned beyond recognition, possibly a 3d IDF soldier, is found in the vehicle.) PA police intervene and take the 2 reservists into protective custody, removing them to a nearby police station. When news of the incident spreads, 1,000s of Palestinians descend on the station (manned by 21 officers), break in, and kill the soldiers, injuring 15 policemen in the process. Declaring that the PA has "crossed the line," Barak seals borders with Egypt and Jordan, authorizes IDF air strikes against Arafat's headquarters in Ramallah and Gaza, the Palestinian Broadcasting Center in Ramallah, the Gaza port, various PA police stations, including those in Hebron, Nablus, Ramallah. When the strikes occur, Arafat is in his Gaza office waiting for CIA Dir. Tenet to arrive to discuss the possibility of convening the U.S.-Israeli-PA trilateral security comm. (formed in 1998) to explore ways of halting the violence. Neither Arafat nor Tenet is injured, but 43 Palestinians are wounded. In Gaza City, Palestinians pack belongings into cars, prepare to flee. In Jericho, Palestinians set fire to a 6th-century synagogue. Jewish settlers attack, fire on Palestinian cars nr. Bethlehem, Jinin. In retaliation, IDF helicopters fire rockets at the PA police academy in Jericho. During the Israeli air strikes, the PA releases around 60 Hamas, Islamic Jihad prisoners for their safety. (ADM, AP, LAW, MM, NYT 10/12; ATL, AYM, IRNA, LPA, MENA, XIN 10/12 in WNC 10/13; MENA, XIN 10/12, SA 10/13 in WNC 10/16; CSM, MM, NYT, WP, WT 10/13; WP, WT 10/14; MENA 10/16 in WNC 10/17; WJW 10/19; JP 10/20; MEI 10/27; MA 11/6 in WNC 11/9)

In Yemen's port of Aden, a small, explosive-laden boat rams the USS Cole, an Aegis destroyer in port for refueling, killing 17 U.S. servicemen, injuring 35. (AP, MM 10/12; AFP [Internet], CSM, MM, NYT, WP, WT 10/13; NYT, WP, WT 10/14, 10/15, 10/16; MEI 10/27)

In the U.S., the primary concern of the public, government, and media is the attack on the USS Cole, while Israel's attacks on the Palestinian infrastructure, PA offices are viewed as a limited military response to the death of Israeli soldiers in PA custody, if not at the hands of the PA. Clinton, Albright express outrage over the murder, call on both sides to halt the violence. Clinton says he appreciates Palestinian frustration, but "there can be no possible justification for mob violence." 96 senators send Clinton a letter urging him to express solidarity with Israel "at this critical moment." (NYT, WP, WT 10/13; MEI, MM 10/27; MEI 11/10) (see Doc. D4)

Mubarak invites Arafat, Barak, Clinton to Sharm al-Shaykh for a summit. Mubarak also meets with King Abdallah of Jordan on the escalating crisis, upcoming Arab summit. (MENA 10/12 in WNC 10/13; MM, NYT, WP 10/13)

In Biarritz, France, Pres. Chirac convenes an emergency EU mtg. to discuss the escalation of Israeli-Palestinian violence, implores both sides to halt the fighting. (MM 10/13; AFP, EFE [Madrid] 10/13 in WNC 10/16; WP 10/14; SA 10/15 in WNC 10/17)

UN Secy.-Gen. Annan, in Lebanon to discuss the Hizballah kidnapping of 3 IDF soldiers, cuts short his visit, returns to Israel to try to calm the situation. (WP 10/13)

The Arab League denounces the Israel air strikes, warns that "all options" are open to the Arab world if the escalation continues. In Cairo, angry crowds march through the streets demanding Egypt take military action against Israel. In Beirut, demonstrations break out on university campuses. Elsewhere in Lebanon, Jordan, and Syria--including in the Palestinian camps--the streets are quiet; the governments release no official statements on events but heighten visibility of police, military. Anti-Israeli, anti-U.S. demonstrations are noted in Indonesia, South Africa. In the U.S., demonstrations are held in Boston, Dearborn, Detroit, Los Angeles, New York, Raleigh, San Diego, Washington. In France, numerous acts of anti-Jewish vandalism, including attacks on synagogues, are noted in Lille, Paris, Rouen. (AP 10/12; AFP [Internet], WP 10/13; JT 10/13 in WNC 10/16; WP 10/14)

At the UN, U.S. Amb. Holbrooke warns Arab, nonaligned diplomats they may "jeopardize" relations with the U.S. if they push for a special session of the UN General Assembly (UNGA) to censure Israel, for a UNSC res. calling on Israel to cease hostilities. (TT 10/12 in WNC 10/13; MM 10/13; NYT, WP 10/14)

Nayif Hawatmah of DFLP, George Habash of PFLP meet in Tripoli with Libyan leader Mu'ammar al-Qadhafi. Libya and Iraq are only Arab states to explicitly oppose PLO-Israel agreement. (NYT 9/16, 9/17)

U.S. Pres. Clinton, in telephone conversation with Jordan's King Hussein, discloses U.S. will release $30 m. in aid to Amman frozen due to Jordan's position in 1990-91 Gulf crisis. Release is due to signing of Jordan-Israel common agenda. Clinton also calls Syrian Pres. al-Asad, urges him to rein in Damascus-based Palestinian factions opposed to PLO-Israel agreement. (NYT 9/16; CSM, NYT 9/17; NYT 9/18)

U.S. joins with Russia, Egypt, and Israel to eliminate, revise, or defer 32 UNGA resolutions critical of Israel. Resolutions to be changed or discarded include those establishing Comm. on Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People, criticizing Israeli human rights practices, examining Israeli-South African relations, and calling on Israel to renounce nuclear weapons. (NYT 9/16)

U.S. investigatory team ends its inspection of Israeli Patriot missile batteries. (NYT 3/27)

Ateret Cohanim seminary opens four stores in Muslim Quarter of E. Jerusalem. (MM 3/27)

EC "troika" [three European for. ministers who comprise the EC's presidency] arrives in Cairo for talks on peace process and upcoming multilateral talks with Egyptian, Arab League officials. (Republic of Egypt Radio 3/26 in FBIS 3/26)

Israel allows direct-dial telephone service to 10 Arab countries (Jordan, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Algeria, Tunis, Morocco, United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Qatar, Yemen). Jordan's national telecommunications company states it will block incoming calls from Israel, asserting no bilateral treaty establishing communications has yet been signed. Decision to initiate service was made in Dec. 1991. (NYT 3/28)

Syrian Pres. Asad returns to Damascus, concluding 3-day visit with Egypt's Pres. Mubarak [WP, NYT 7/17].

Arab League concludes meeting in Tunis, reports Arab states will boycott companies and institutions that help Jews immigrate to Israel [INA 7/16 in FBIS 7/ 17; WT, MEM 7/17].

UN Sec. Gen. Javier Perez de Cuellar asks 5 permanent members of Sec. Council to become involved in Middle East peace process; U.S. indicates readiness to examine de Cuellar's invitation, but has traditionally opposed greater UN involvement [MEM 7/17; NYT 7/18].

Israeli troops shoot, wound 11 Palestinians in Gaza; enter Rafa town and camp for first time in month and order residents to remove graffiti [NYT 7/17].

Bomb explodes in Jewish sector of Jerusalem, kills 72-year-old man, wounds 9 others; police round up dozens of Palestinians; angry Jewish shopowners try to attack them, shout anti-Arab epithets [NYT, WP, WT, LAT 5/29; IDF 5/28 in FBIS 5/29; FJ 6/4].

Arab League summit opens in Baghdad; Saddam Husein takes hard line against Israel and U.S. despitefforts by Egypt, Saudi Arabia to tone down rhetoric. 5 Arab states, including Syria do not attend summit [NYT, WP, WT 5/29; INA 5/28 in FBIS 5/29].

Israeli parliamentary panel votes 13-11 to approve retroactively the gov't.'s $1.8 million financing of Jewish settlement in St. John's Hospice in E. Jerusalem [WT 5/29].

Israeli high court gives permission to far-right Kach movement, led by Rabbi Meir Kahane, to hold demonstration in Rishon le Zion in support of 5/20 killings [sic] [NYT 5/29].

Responding to international criticism about secret gov't. funding of Jewish settlement in Jerusalem, Israeli foreign ministry issues statement: "It is the right of Jews to live everywhere, and to purchase or rent property in all parts of the land of Israel, and especially in Jerusalem" [NYT 4/25].

UN spokesperson says Sec. Gen. Javier Perez de Cuellar is deeply concerned over presence of Jewish settlers in Christian quarter of Jerusalem, and disturbed over Israeli officials' financial involvement [WP 4/25].

Through an emissary to interim P.M. Shamir, AIPAC exec. dir. Thomas Dine questions timing of Jewish settlement in Christian quarter of Jerusalem, criticizes Israeli gov't.'s secret financing of move (cf. 4/25) [NYT, WT 4/25].

Gov't of Greece has shelved its plans to establish full diplomatic relations with Israel until all settlers are evacuated from Greek Orthodox St. John's Hospice in Jerusalem [JPD 4/24 in FBIS 4/25].

Peretz Kidron of Yesh Gvul organization says at least 108 IDF reservists have gone to prison for refusing to serve in O.T. [MET 5/8-14].

Group called Islamic Jihad-Jerusalem threatens to kill Americans worldwide unless U.S. Senate repeals 3/22 resolution calling Jerusalem the capital of Israel [NYT 4/25].

U.S. House of Representatives votes 378 to 34 in favor of a nonbinding resolution affirming support for united Jerusalem as capital of Israel. Resolution, identical to one passed by Senate on 3/22, conflicts with official U.S. policy [WP, WT 4/25; FJ 4/30].

Syria's first ambassador to Egypt in 13 years, Isa Darwish, presents his credentials to Pres. Mubarak [MET 5/8-14].

Eight Arab states, including the State of Palestine, have agreed to Arab summit in Baghdad in late May (cf. 5/1) [KUNA 4/24 in FBIS 4/25].

Officials from PLO and Japan meet within framework of agreement reached last October, PLO to ask for assistance in creating jobs in O.T. [AVP 4/24 in FBIS 4/25].

Czechoslovakia's Pres. Havel says his country can serve as transit station for emigrating Soviet Jews [JDS 4/24 in FBIS 4/25].

Amid rumors that Israel will release captives held in S. Lebanon as payoffor release of U.S. hostage, Israeli officials say Israeli prisoners in Lebanon must be released as part of any deal [LAT 4/25].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli Atty. Gen. Yosef Harish opens police investigation against Faisal Husayni for suspected incitement [FBIS 1/17].

Arab World: Egyptian F.M. Ismat Abd-alMajid arrives in Washington, meets with Sec. Baker. Abd-al-Majid's trip coincides with Washington talks between Bush administration and Israeli D.M. Rabin [FBIS 1/16; NYT, WP 1/17].

Arab Cooperation Council opens meetings in Baghdad [FBIS 1/17].

Other Countries: New York Times op-ed piece by Senate minority leader Robert Dole suggests 5% of U.S. foreign aid to Israel, Egypt, and others be redirected to E. Europe and Panama [NYT 1/16, 1/17; WP 1/17].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Military closes 6 Gaza Strip schools for rock throwing [FBIS 1/17].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Speaking in Bayt Sahur, Archbishop Desmond Tutu draws parallels between plight of South African blacks and Palestinians in O.T. [NYT, LAT 12/25; FBIS 12/28].

Shimon Peres asks Israel's Cabinet to approve $27.2 billion 1990 budget, including $5.3 billion earmarked for defense. The army seeks an extra $200 million to combat intifada [LAT 12/25].

The first Egyptian trade delegation to visit Israel arrives in Jerusalem. Israeli exports to Egyptotalled $6.2 million last year, while imports from Egypt totalled $3.2 million [FBIS 12/28].

Ariel Sharon suggests to the cabinet that the level of violence in territories could be reduced if Israel arrested or deported Faisal Husayni, Sari Nusaybah, and Jamil al-Tarifi [FBIS 12/28].

Arab World: Arafat meets with Mubarak in Cairo to discuss plans for preliminary peace talks in Washington [NYT 12/25].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israel's Supreme Court overturns decision by army's Judge Advocate General and directs army to court-martial Col. Yehuda Meir (ret.). This is the first time the High Court has moved against IDF. Col. Meir is accused of instructing troops to break limbs of Palestinian prisoners arrested in January 1988 [NYT, LAT 12/25; FBIS 12/27].

At least 25 Palestinians are wounded in clashes with IDF forces throughout O.T. [FBIS 12/27].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Prime Minister Shamir threatens to resign if Herut Central Committee approves no confidence vote in wake of election proposal [FBIS 5/17]. Public opinion poll shows that Israelis think Ariel Sharon "is the Israeli figure best suited to deal with the intifadah" [FBIS 5/19].

Arab World: Hasan II invites Egypt to participate in upcoming Arab summit [FBIS 5/17]. PLO Chairman Arafat offers to name Palestinian government composed of residents of O.T. [WP 5/18]. Egypt rejects Israel's plan for elections in O.T., reiterates call for international conference [FBIS 5/17].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: In Jenin Palestinian is shot, killed [FBIS 5/17]. Troops shoot, wound at least 5 Palestinians in Gaza [FBIS 5/18]. 

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israel's cabinet endorses Shamir's election proposal, 20-6 [NYT 5/15, MET 5/23].

Arab World: Syria announces it will not oppose Egypt participation in upcoming (5/23) Arab summit; Egypt was suspended from Arab League following 1979 treaty with Israel. Syrian, PLO officials schedule meetings during Arab summit [NYT 5/15].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: In northern Israel Palestinian shoots, slightly injures 2 policemen before being seriously wounded [MET 5/23]. In Gaza 25-year-old Palestinian, suspected of collaboration, is found dead. Israeli troops shoot, wound 8 Palestinians in O.T. In Gaza curfew confines 210,000 Palestinians to their homes [NYT 5/13].

Arab World: Land mine kills SLA soldier, wounds another in Israeli-imposed "security zone" in S. Lebanon [MET 5/23].

Social/Economic/Political

Arab World: Saudi King Fahd pledges to support Egypt's full return to Arab League [LAT 4/1].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/lIsrael: Israel, United States agree to develop $35 million research center to work on S.D.I. [MET 4/11].

Arab World: Washington Post reports that Iraq is engaged in crash program to build atomic weapons and will test warhead within 2-5 years [WP 3/3 1]. In S. Lebanon PFLP, Lebanese resistance attacks Israeli positions; 2 guerrillas are killed [MET 4/ 11].

Other Countries: Nordic foreign ministers meet, issue statement on Middle East saying that they approve of PLO's recognition of Israel, acceptance of UN resolutions 242, 338 and they urge Israel not to interfere with function of UNIFIL [FJ 4/10].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: D.M. Yitzhaq Rabin announces Fateh has refrained from attacking Israeli positions [WP 3/29].

Arab World: Saudi Arabia's King Fahd and Egypt's Pres. Mubarak meet in Egypt, discuss Middle East peace, bilateral relations [FBIS 3/29]. Chedli Klibi is reelected chairman of Arab League for 3rd 5-year term [FBIS 3/29]. PLO Executive Committee nominates Arafat to be president of State of Palestine [FBIS 3/29]. In Cairo, Arafat meets with leaders of Muslim Brotherhood [FBIS 4/5].

Other Countries: French Pres. Mitterand announces he will meet with PLO chairman Arafat [FBIS 3/29, FJ 4/3].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: 19-year-old Palestinian from Salim dies from wounds received 3/13 [FJ 4/3]. At least 10 Palestinians are injured during clashes in O.T. In Balata 3 women are treated after receiving cut wounds on the head during clashes with troops [FBIS 3/29].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Over 6,000 Israeli Arabs will make pilgrimage to Mecca this year according to Israeli officials. 40 Israeli Arabs were denied permission to make Hajj for security reasons [FBIS 3/27].

Arab World: Arafat, Jordan's King Hussein, Egypt's Pres. Mubarak meet in Egypt, discuss Middle East peace, Lebanon. Hussein declares that members of newly formed Arab Cooperation Council will not attend Arab Summit unless Egypt is invited [FBIS 3/27].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: In Khan Yunis troops open fire, kill 20-year-old Palestinian [FBIS 3/27, FJ 4/3]. In Gaza City troops kill Palestinian demonstrator. In Gaza City, Rafah Palestinian collaborators are found dead [FBIS 3/27]. At least 35 Palestinians are injured in O.T. [WP 3/26].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israel closes 4 schools in Gaza following demonstrations [FBIS 2/24].

Arab World: In Cairo, Arafat holds press conference with Israeli journalists, reaffirms willingness to accept three-part state consisting of Israel, Palestine, Jordan. Soviet F.M. Shevardnadze arrives in Baghdad for talks with Iraqi pres. Saddam Husayn [FBIS 2/24].

Other Countries: Egyptian pres. Mubarak, Jordan's King Hussein meet with Pres. Bush at Japanese emperor Hirohito's funeral, ask him to back Middle East peace conference; Israeli pres. Chaim Herzog urges Bush to wait [WP, LAT 2/24].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: In al-'Ayzariyyah Israeli civilians shoot, wound 4 Palestinians after their car was stoned. At least 6 other Palestinians are wounded throughout O.T. [FBIS 2/24].

Arab World: South Lebanese Army (SLA) forces shoot, kill 3 DFLP guerrillas attempting to cross Israel's northern border [FBIS 2/24, NYT 2/24].

Social/Economic/Political

Arab World: King Hussein surrenders claims of sovereignty over W. Bank; calls on the PLO to take responsibility for W. Bank [NYT 7/31].

Military

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Police arrest Faysal al-Husayni for engaging in "subversive, hostile activities" and for working with Fateh; Husayni had recently told Peace Now rally that he favors two-state solution to the Arab-Israeli conflict [WP 8/1]. In Beach camp 70 Palestinians are injured during demonstrations aIsraelis lift curfew [FJ 8/7]. In Gaza City 5 Palestinians are injured during demonstrations. Clashes also occur in Duhayshah, Balatah, 'Ayn Bayt al-Ma', Tulkarm, Qalqiliyyah camps and Husan village [FJ 8/7].

Arab World: Egyptian and Saudi governments are pressuring W. German government to cancel agreement with Israel to build submarines; W. Germany forbids sale of arms to areas of high tension [FJ 8/7].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Commercial strike continues in E. Jerusalem. Stores open in Gaza City [WP 1/27]. Shopowners heed call of Unified National Command for the Uprising in the Occupied Territories, strike in many W. Bank cities and towns [LAT 1/27]. Trials of Gazans arrested during uprising slow to "standstill" as scores of defendants demand full hearings [FBIS 1/27]. Moshe 'Amirav leaves Herut Movement after being removed from its central com. [FBIS 1/27]. Israeli authorities order al-Fajr's Gaza office closed for 1 year [FJ 1/3 1]. Hebron U. reopens after 1-month military-ordered closure [FJ 1/31].

Arab World: In Beirut, Islamic Jihad for the Liberation of Palestine says fate of 4 Beirut University College professors it is holding hostage is linked to Israeli arrests of Palestinians inoccupied territories [WP 1/27].

Other Countries: U.S. State Dept. announces Sec. of State Shultz will meet with al-Fajr editor Hanna Siniora and Gaza attorney Fayiz Abu Rahmah. Egypt's Pres. Husni Mubarak arrives in Washington for 3-day official visit. Elyakim Rubinstein, Israeli cabinet sec., holds talks with Charles Hill, aide to Sec. of State Shultz [NYT 1/27].

Military Action Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli troops open fire on demonstrators in Gaza Strip's Jenin refugee camp, wounding 1. Curfew on Jabalya is lifted but reimposed after crowds throw Molotov cocktails at Israeli patrol [WP 1/27; FJ 1/31]. In the West Bank, military imposes curfews on village of Qabatiyyah and Jenin camp following violent demonstrations. Curfews imposed on Tulkarm and Bayt 'Ur al-Tahta are lifted; military lifts curfew on Balata, declares camp closed military zone. Sa'ir village remains under siege and nearby village of al-Shuyukh is also blockaded. Israeli troops use rubber bullets to disperse stone-throwing crowd in Jalazun refugee camp, injuring 1; another Jalazun resident is severely beaten. Curfew is imposed on camp. Demonstrations are also reported in al-Birah and Ramallah [FJ 1/31].

Arab World: Israeli warplanes stage mock raids over Sidon, drawing anti-aircraft fire [FBIS 1/27].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: In Gaza City, Israeli driver opens fire on stone-throwing demonstrators who surrounded his car; 2 schoolgirls are wounded [WP, NYT 11/12]. Attomey General Yosef Harish orders investigation into death of 'Awad Hamdan, who died in Jenin Prison 7/21; Yediot Aharonot reports 3 Shin Bet officers have been suspended for lying about the incident [WP, NYT 11/12]. Israeli officials order 2 Dayr al-Balah schools closed until 11/15 after student demonstrations [FJ 11/15]. High-ranking Japanese trade delegation arrives in Israel [FBIS 11/13].

Arab World: Final declaration of Arab summit includes statement of support for UN-sponsored international peace conference and says member states may restore diplomatic ties with Egypt [NYT 11/12]. UAE announces resumption of diplomatic relations with Egypt [NYT 11/12].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Clerks Union and Finance Ministry sign new wage agreement ending nationwide strike [CSM 9/28]. Palestinian-owned house in 'Isawiyyah village north of Jerusalem is demolished by Israeli bulldozers [FJ 10/4].

Arab World: Shaykh Muhammad Husayn Fadlallah and Saudi government deny allegations published in Washington Post that Saudi Arabia paid Fadlallah $2 million bribe to end bombing attacks on Westem targets [WP 9/28]. Libyan leader Mu'ammar Qadhdhafi receives Abu Musa in Tripoli [FJ 10/4].

Other Countries: Faruq al-Qaddumi, head of PLO's Political Department, holds talks with Egypt's F.M. 'Ismat 'Abd al-Magid in New York [FJ 10/4].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Egyptian F.M. 'Ismat 'Abd al-Magid meets with 13 Palestinians from occupied territories in Tel Aviv [FJ 7/26]. Estimated 20,000 Palestinians and Israelis participate in opening ceremonies for Nazareth's 12th voluntary work camp [FJ 7/26]. W. Bank military governor orders Muslim Youth Society in Hizma closed for 3 months [FJ 7/26].

Arab World: Unity and Liberation Front announces its formation istatement issued in Lebanon; the front, a coalition of 13 pro-Syrian groups, calls for joint action against Israel, the PLO, and the Lebanese Phalange party [FJ 7/26].

Other Countries: Palestinian political cartoonist Naji al-Ali is seriously injured by unidentified gunman in London [FJ 7/26].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Communications Minister Amnon Rubinstein, head of Labor-aligned Shinui party, says his party is pulling out of national unity government in effort to force new elections [LAT, NYT 5/18]. Israeli cabinet votes to implement 2-tiered tuition scale charging army veterans lower tuition rate than non-veterans [FJ 5/24]. Israeli troops seal off rooms in Qalqiliyyah houses belonging to families of 3 men accused of throwing firebombs at military vehicles [FJ 5/24]. Ahmad Nasr, resident of Khan Yunis refugee camp, is arrested, served expulsion order on charges of leading Fateh youth movement in Gaza [FJ 5/24]. Town arrest orders are issued against 4 residents of W. Bank and Gaza Strip, bringing total number currently under town arrest in occupied territories to74 [FJ 5/24]. Three preparatory schools in Gaza Strip town of Rafah are ordered closed indefinitely [FJ 5/24].

Arab World: PLO Executive Com. statement indicates decision to pursue normalization of relations with Egypt. PLO delegation led by Faruq al-Qaddumi arrives in Tripoli, Libya [FJ 5/24].

Other Countries: Israeli F.M. Peres tells meeting of Am. Jewish Com. in New York that role of U.S.S.R. in proposed international peace conference needs clarification [NYT 5/18]; meets with Soviet Ambassador Yuri Dubinin in Washington [WP, CSM 5/19]; in speech at AIPAC conference, says talks with Jordan might deny PLO role in peace process [BG, LAT 5/18]. Also speaking before AIPAC, U.S. Sec. of State Shultz officially endorses negotiations in preparation for international peace conference on the Middle East [WP 5/18]. 

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/lIsrael: Al-Fajr reports the Merkovitch Committee, formed to investigate issue of unlicensed construction in the occupied territories, recommends that, of 5,400 unlicensed Arab homes currently scheduled for demolition, 2,600 be given legal status, 300 be destroyed immediately, and 2,500 be scheduled for demolition at a later date [FJ 2/6]. Israeli military authorities order al-Najah University closed for 1 day to prevent possible campus protests [FJ 2/13].

Arab World: Starving residents of Beirut's Burj al-Barajinah refugee camp ask religious leaders for dispensation to eat human flesh [IN 2/7].

Other Countries: Arab-American groups charge 1/27 arrests of Palestinians in Los Angeles are beginning of U.S. plan to round up and deport Arabs [WP 2/7]. Amnesty International spokesman reports Arab prisoners held in S. Lebanon's SLArun al-Khiyam Detention Camp were tortured with electrical shockwaves [FJ 2/13].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Two Israeli soldiers are injured by stones thrown at them while they patrolled Balatta refugee camp [FJ 2/13].

Arab World: Israeli navy stops Maria R., freighter enroute from Cyprus to Lebanon, arrests 8 Egyptian crewmen, 50 unarmed Palestinians [LM 2/10; WP 2/8]. SLA and Israeli forces engage in heavy fighting with Hizballah forces in Israel's "security zone" in S. Lebanon. At least 8 Hizballah, 1 SLA fighters are killed [IN 2/7].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: P.M.Peres, in last days of term as P.M., says coalition government will fall if he is prevented from pursuing peace initiatives when he becomes F.M. (WP 10/5).

Arab World: Former Jordanian P.M. Ahmad 'Ubaydat resigns from Jordanian senate (FBIS 10/6). Middle East International reports 'Ubaydat's resignation was requested by King Hussein and P.M. Rifa'i after 'Ubaydat sent letter embarrassing to Hussein to Egyptian Pres. Mubarak (MEI 10/12). Al-Kayed says Jordan has begun issuing three-year passports to displaced persons from Gaza and Beersheba who live in Jordan (MEI 10/12).

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli Energy Minister announces plan for "resolving difficulties" of Arab-owned Jersualem Electric Co. (JP 9/1).

Arab World: Soviet delegation arrives in Damascus. Lebanese P.M. Rashid Karami, Salim al-Huss, Amal leader Nabih Birri, Druze leader Walid Jumblatt meet Syrian V.P. Khaddam in Damascus. Jordanian P.M. Rifa'i travels to Egypt in effort to draw Jordan into upcoming Egypt-Israel summit (JP 9/1).

Military Action

Arab World: SLA attacks village of Qabrika, near Tyre, wounds five, kills one girl, destroys ten houses (JP 9/1; FBIS 9/2).

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israel deports 3 more Palestinians to Jordan: Mahmud Fa'anun, from the West Bank; and Hasan Muhammad Ahmad al-'Amudi and Jalal Hafiz Hashim 'Azizi, both from the Gaza Strip. Military sources state they were affiliated to the PFLP [JP 2/6; FJ 2/7]. The 3 refused to appeal to the High Court, believing they would not get a fair trial [FJ 2/7]. Deputy head of the Red Cross delegation in Israel, jean Jacques Fresard, sharply criticizes Israeli govt. for deporting Palestinians from the occupied territories to Jordan, termsuch actions "completely illegal" [JP 2/6].

Arab World: King Hussein and Yasir Arafat begin new round of talks in Amman [BG 2/6]. Arafat reportedly gives Hussein 3- point plan whereby PLO would accept UN resolution 242 in return for firm measures calling for Palestinian state; PLO was in return given countersuggestion that originated with U.S. officials [JP 2/11]. Egypt, Israel begin 2 days of talks on Taba border dispute [BG 2/6]. Ahmad Jibril, head of PFLP-GC, states passengers on U.S., Israeli commercial airliners may become targets for reprisals for Israel's interception of Libyan jet [TS 2/6].

Military Action

Other Countries: Bomb explodes in Paris sporting goods store, wounding 9 [WP, LAT 2/6]. 

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Shops in East Jerusalem go on general strike again to protest closure of Hospice Hospital [FJ 8/2]. Proposal to erect a settlement on spot where two Afula schoolteachers were murdered is presented to Zionist Executive by Jewish Agency Settlement Department Cochairman Nissim Zvilli [JP 7/29]. Shimon Barda, head of the "Lifta Gang," is convicted by the Jerusalem district court of conspiring to blow up the Dome of the Rock. Sentencing will follow [JP 7/30]. Knesset finance committee freezes IS 354 million for Kiryat Arba's local council until Attomey General Zamir gives legal opinion on council's proposal to dismiss Palestinian workers [JP 7/30]. Knesset appoints seven-minister committee to make recommendations regarding punishment of those convicted of politically motivated killings [BG 7/29]. Voice of America reports Israel seeks American banks to operate in Israel, to boost ailing Israeli banking system; at least one is reportedly interested [JTA 7/3 1]. Koterit Rashit reports Israeli firms are studying 70 proposed business projects in China, including construction of 2 hotels and an airport. The Daily Telegraph cites report in Jane's Defence Weekly stating secret military links were opened between Israel and China in 1979, a $3 billion arms deal was recently concluded, and Israeli military advisers have served with Chinese ground and air force units [JC, DT 7/29].

Arab World: The United Arab Emirates is second state to confirm attendence at upcoming Arab summit meeting. Syria, Lebanon, and South Yemen will not attend [FT 7/30, LT 8/2]. Kuwait, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and Egypt back the summit call [JP 7/30, FT 7/31].

Military Action

Arab World: Israeli planes attack Palestinian base used by the PFLP-GC in eastern Lebanon; no casualty reports [WP 7/30].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Law student Aziza Kharaja sentenced to 5 mos. for membership in illegal organization [her 2 sisters held in Neve Tertza on similar charges]. PM Peres announces invitation to Egypt's Pres. Mubarak for talks on bilateral relations. After 2-yr. silence, crewman of M. S. Moran reveals to Hadashot that ship's Capt. Gilad set Tanzanian stowaway adrift on high seas (3/82).

Arab World: Israel proposes cease-fire to Amal forces in S. Lebanon, but refuse release of detained Amal leaders (arrested 11/9) in exchange for resumed talks with Lebanon.

Other Countries: Greek PM Papandreou ends visit to Syria & Jordan and agrees to promote their interests among fellow EEC members.

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli authorities demolish 33 homes of farmers in jiftlik (Ghor al-Fari'a). [Jiftlik produces 15% of West Bank GNP. Israelis demolished adjacent al-'Ajajreh, Sattariya & al-Mahrouq villages in 1967.] Haifa U. student Saour Saour attacked by Kach students while posting notice offering to help Palestinians enroll. Stone-throwing incidents reported in Jabal al-Muqabber (Jerusalem), Bethlehem & Ramallah; police respond with tear gas.

Arab World: IDF convoy ambushed near Sarafand; 1 Israeli seriously wounded, later dies.