The Palestine Chronology

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers opened fire at a Palestinian car traveling near Marda, causing damage. Israeli settlers also vandalized 40 olive trees in Kafr ad-Dik and stole an olive harvest in Awarta. Israeli forces shot and killed 2 Palestinians and injured 14 others during a raid in Jalazone refugee camp. Israeli forces also prevented Palestinians from harvesting olives in Iskaka. More than 120 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in and around Hebron, Jalazone refugee camp, Bayt Rima, Jericho, Bethlehem, Jenin, Tulkarm, and Nablus. In East Jerusalem, Israeli settlers toured the Haram al-Sharif compound, preventing Palestinian students from attending classes. In Gaza, Israeli airstrikes killed at least 400 Palestinians. Israel said it had attacked 320 targets in Gaza overnight, including 2 mosques. Rockets were fired at Israel, causing damage. In Lebanon, Israeli forces attacked 2 Hezbollah positions, killing 1 person near Aitaroun. Israel shot down 2 drones that entered Israeli airspace from Lebanon. (AP 10/20; AJ, AJ, HA 10/22; AJ, AJ, AJ, AP, HA, NYT, REU, REU, REU, UNOCHA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 10/23; WAFA 10/24)

The Gaza Ministry of Health said as of 5 p.m. at least 5,087 Palestinians had been killed, including at least 3,100 women and children, and 15,273 had been injured in Israeli airstrikes on Gaza since 10/7. It is estimated that 1,500 were trapped in rubble. In addition, Israeli media reported that 1,500 Palestinian militants have been killed near Gaza. 94 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces and settlers in the West Bank and East Jerusalem since 10/7, including 27 children. More than 1,738 have been injured, including at least 360 with live ammunition. Israeli officials recorded no new fatalities, leaving the Israeli death toll at around 1,400 Israelis and foreign nationals; 5,431 have been injured since 10/7. The UN reported that over 1.4 million Palestinians, more than half the population in Gaza, have been displaced since 10/7 and that since 11 p.m. on 10/12 there has been a complete electricity blackout due to the Israeli blockade. At least 26,756 housing units have been destroyed and 139,000 have been damaged in Israeli airstrikes since 10/7. At least 42% of all housing units have been either destroyed or damaged in Israeli airstrikes. Israel said it allowed 14 trucks of aid to enter Gaza after having its forces inspect the contents. A total of 20 trucks carrying food, water, and medicine entered Gaza. The International Organization for Migration said 19,646 people in Lebanon have been displaced due to fighting near the Blue Line. (AJ, AJ, HA, REU, UNOCHA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 10/23)

Palestinian prisoner and Hamas member, Omar Daraghmeh, died in the Megiddo Prison. Hamas called the 58-year-old’s death an assassination. Daraghmeh was arrested in his home in Tubas and placed in administrative detention on 10/9. (AJ 10/22; WAFA 10/23)

2 elderly Israeli Hamas-held captives were released to the Red Cross and transferred to Israel via Egypt’s Rafah crossing. 1 of the captives was filmed shaking the hand of 1 of the Hamas members handing them over to the Red Cross. 4 captives have been released since 10/20. Hamas said the 2 were released for humanitarian reasons. Later 1 of the released Israelis said she was treated with care while being kept but was beaten when she was taken to Gaza. (AJ 10/22; AJ, AJ, HA, HA 10/23; AJ, HA, HA, NYT, REU 10/24)

PA president Mahmoud Abbas met with Dutch prime minister Mark Rutte in Ramallah. Rutte had met Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Israel before traveling to Ramallah. Abbas also spoke with EU Commission president Ursula von der Leyen. (WAFA, WAFA 10/23)

EU high commissioner for foreign affairs Josep Borell called for a temporary ceasefire to allow more aid to reach Gaza. (AP 10/20; AJ 10/22; AJ, HA, REU 10/23)

Amnesty International said UK prime minister Rishi Sunak and Labor shadow secretary for international development Lisa Nandy “are diminishing the gravity of Israel’s actions” by refusing to condemn clear breaches of international law. Sunak said the UK will donate $25 million in aid to Gaza and said the UK believed it was a misfired rocket from Gaza that hit al-Ahli Arab Hospital on 10/17. (AJ 10/22; HA 10/23)

U.S. National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby said it is still not time for the U.S. to call for a ceasefire. The U.S. also sent 3-star general James Glynn to advise Israel. Glynn is reported to be an expert in urban warfare. (AJ 10/22; AP 10/24)

China’s special envoy on the Middle East Zhai Jun said China is willing to do “whatever is conducive” to promote a ceasefire and retore peace, calling the situation in Gaza “very serious.” (AJ, REU 10/23)

The ICC announced that it would begin hearings on the request for an advisory opinion on the legal consequences of the Israeli occupation on 2/19/2024. (HA 10/23; WAFA 10/25)

In the West Bank, large groups of Israeli settlers chanted racist slogans at Palestinians in Hebron and Israeli forces closed off large portions of the city for its Palestinian residents. Israeli forces assaulted and arrested 1 Palestinian minor in Jayyous. In East Jerusalem, Israeli settlers attacked 1 Palestinian minor with stones in the French Hill neighborhood, causing severe injuries to his face. Some 230 Israeli settlers also stormed the Haram al-Sharif compound; the PA and Jordan condemned Israel for allowing the settlers access. Israeli forces raided Silwan leading to clashes with Palestinians; tear-gas related injuries were reported. 3 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in al-Tur and Issawiyya. In Israel, Israelis attacked a transport van and its Palestinian driver in West Jerusalem after yelling that the driver was “Arab,” when the Palestinian driver tried to escape the mob he inadvertently killed 1 Israeli man with his vehicle; Israeli police initially arrested the Palestinian man but released him 36 hours and started rounding up 12 Israelis who had attacked the Palestinian man; the Palestinian man’s lawyer said in court that the attack was “a lynching.” (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 2/28; JP 3/1; HA, PCHR 3/4)

All checkpoints to Gaza and the West Bank were closed by Israel for the Purim holiday. Closures ended at midnight. (HA 2/25)

The Israeli cabinet approved starting to vaccinate Palestinians from the West Bank holding Israeli work permits and Palestinians working in Israeli settlements. Vaccination centers will be set up at West Bank crossings. The decision came days after the PA said that Israel and the PA had agreed that Israel would vaccinate Palestinian workers. (AP, HA, NYT, REU, TOI, TOI 2/28)

8 of 9 judges on the Israeli supreme court voted to overturn the Israeli central elections committee’s decision to disqualify the Palestinian-Israeli Labor party candidate Ibtisam Mara’ana from running in the Israeli elections. The Israeli central elections committee disqualified Mara’ana from running upon request by the racist far-right Otzma Yehudit (Jewish Power) party on 2/17. (HA 2/28)

Israel designated the Samidoun Palestinian Prisoner Solidarity organization a terrorist organization for its ties to the Palestinian Front for the Liberation of Palestine. (JP 2/28)

The Syrian army said Israel fired rockets at southern Damascus from the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights; there were no reports of casualties or damage. (AP, HA 2/28; AJ, JP 3/1)

Iran rejected an invitation to discuss reviving the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) at an informal meeting with the U.S. and European stakeholders, saying that European and American parties have made actions and statements in the recent past that do not make the timing right for Iran. Iran later said that the U.S. should lift the sanctions imposed by the Trump administration before the parties can begin to engage on reviving the JCPOA. (AJ 2/28; REU 3/1)

Some 450 lawmakers in European countries and in the EU parliament signed a letter to EU High Representative Josep Borrell and European foreign ministers urging them to pressure Israel to stop the “de facto annexation” of the West Bank. (HA 2/28; WAFA 3/1)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces injured 1 Palestinian, hitting him in the face with a tear gas canister in Qiffin. Israeli forces also violently dispersed the weekly anti-settlement protest in Kafr Qaddum, injuring 4, including 1 who was hit with live ammunition to his neck. 2 Palestinians were arrested, including 1 during a late-night raid in Yatta and 1 at the entrance to Qalqilya. In East Jerusalem, 4 Palestinians were arrested during a house raid in Issawiyya, including 2 minors; they were all later released to house arrest for 5 days. (WAFA 9/11; PCHR 9/17)

According to Syrian state media, Israel fired missiles at several locations southeast of Aleppo, causing damage. (HA 9/10; TOI 9/11)

U.S. president Donald Trump announced that Bahrain had joined the normalization deal between Israel and the UAE and would be part of the signing ceremony in Washington D.C. on 9/15. Oman welcomed Bahrain’s decision and said, “this new strategic path taken by some Arab countries will contribute to bringing about a peace based on an end to the Israeli occupation of Palestinian lands and on establishing an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as capital.” After the announcement, the PA foreign minister Riyad al-Maliki recalled the PA ambassador to Bahrain, calling Bahrain’s decision a “dangerous violation of the Arab Peace Initiative” and a “threat to Palestinian rights.” (AJ, BBC, NYT, REU, REU, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 9/11; HA, HA, HA, WAFA, WAFA 9/12; AJ, AJ, HA, REU 9/13)

U.S. Pres. Barack Obama meets with Palestinian pres. Mahmud Abbas in Ramallah, discussions that Palestinian officials later characterize as disappointing in regards to positions on settlements and prisoners. Obama then delivers a speech to Israeli students in which he says further settlement construction is ‘‘counterproductive’’ to peace efforts, and urges the Arab world to ‘‘take steps toward normalizing relations’’ with Israel (See Documents in JPS 168 for excerpts). In Gaza, Hamas PM Ismail Haniyeh dismisses Obama’s visit and says ‘‘American policies perpetuate the Israeli occupation.’’ (JP, MNA, REU 3/21)

Palestinian militants fire rockets from the Gaza Strip into Israel, damaging 1 home in Sederot but causing no injuries. A small Islamist group called Mujahidin Shura Council claim responsibility for the launch, having previously claimed a 6/2013 attack on Israel from the Sinai. In response, the Israeli military announces that it is reducing the permitted fishing zone for Palestinians in Gaza to 3 naut. miles, as well as closing Kerem Shalom crossing. In the West Bank, the IDF patrols in 1 village nr. Jenin and 1 village nr. Ramallah in the morning, and in 1 village nr. Tulkarm at night; conducts house searches and arrest raids in 1 village nr. Ramallah at night. (JP, MNA, REU 3/21; PCHR 3/28)

A court in Cyprus convicts Hizballah member Hossam Taleb Yaccoub of plotting against Israeli interests on the island. Yaccoub was arrested on 7/13/12 after a tip off by Israeli intelligence. (REU 3/21)

Iranian leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei delivers a speech at the Shrine of Imam Reza in which he indicates openness to nuclear talks but is not optimistic about success. He also says that international sanctions have failed to isolate Iran. (WP 3/21)

Israeli newspaper Yedi’ot Aharonot reports that the EU is preparing a new plan for Israeli-Palestinian peace talks, to be presented following the forthcoming Israeli elections. The plan reportedly will be detailed and aim to complete negotiations on core issues during 2013. The initiative is sponsored by the British and French foreign ministries, but could be adopted by the whole EU. The PA subsequently says it is unaware of such a plan. Meanwhile, Jordan’s King Abdallah tells the French media that his country is working with European countries to restart the stalled negotiations. (AFP, JP 1/13; JP 1/14)

Israeli NGO Peace Now says that Israel’s Defense Ministry has published plans for around 200 new housing units in the West Bank settlement of Rotem in the Jordan Valley. Meanwhile, PM Netanyahu tells the cabinet that the government will ‘‘not allow anyone to harm the contiguity between Jerusalem and Ma’ale Adumim,’’ referring to the removal of Palestinian activists from the Bab al-Shams protest camp in the E1 area. (AFP, JP 1/13)

Israeli naval vessels open fire on Palestinian fishermen off the Gaza coast nr. al-Waha, causing no injuries. In the West Bank, the IDF patrols in 1 village nr. Ramallah in the morning and in 1 village each nr. Qalqilya and Ramallah at night; conducts house searches and arrest raids in Jenin in the afternoon, and in Nablus, Qalqilya, and 1 village each nr. Bethlehem, Hebron, Jenin, and Nablus at night. (PCHR 1/17)

Armed Palestinians protest in Jenin r.c., demanding the PA security forces return confiscated weapons to the resistance. The PA vows (1/14) to investigate the demonstration. (MNA 1/14)

Palestinian PM Salam Fayyad meets Arab League mbrs. to discuss the PA’s cash crisis and ways of raising the $100 m. promised by Arab countries but as yet undelivered. Fayyad claims that the situation may push 1.5 m. Palestinians into poverty. The Arab League agrees to form a delegation to press mbr. states to meet their financial obligations to the PA. (AP, MNA 1/13)

Senior IDF officers brief Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu that Syrian armed opposition groups have taken up positions along the border of the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights. (JP 1/13)

The Pentagon is sending briefings to senators in order to rebut what it calls ‘‘myths’’ about Defense Secretary–designate Chuck Hagel in the face of opposition to his appointment, in particular by pro-Israel groups. (WT 1/13)

In Geneva, the UN Human Rights Commission passes (31-1, with 21 abstentions) resolution condemning Israel's "continued violations" in the occupied territories. The U.S. votes against. (Reuters [Internet] 4/23)

In Casablanca, Arab human rights groups open major 3 day conference on human rights conditions in the Arab world. It is the 1st international conference of the Arab Human Rights Movement. (INFOPAL 5/21)

Russian FM Ivanov meets with Arafat in Ramallah, then leaves for Egypt. (AFP, ITAR-TASS 4/23 in WNC 4/26; MENA 4/23 in WNC 4/27; MEI 5/7)

Jewish settlers set up new enclave on hilltop nr. Ma'ale Levona, nr. Ramallah. (AP [Internet] 4/24)

Hizballah detonates a roadside bomb in s. Lebanon, killing 1 SLA mbr., wounding a 2d. In an unrelated incident, the IDF shells a Lebanese army checkpoint n. of the self-declared security zone, injuring 3 civilians. (RL, VOL 4/23 in WNC 4/26; NYT, WP 4/24)

Israel claims that during his international tour, Arafat has been urging nations to support UN Res. 181 as the basis of a peace agreement; says that the 1947 res., calling for partitioning Palestine into Jewish and Arab states, was nullified by the Arab side and cannot be invoked now by Palestinians. (WT 4/1; MENA 4/2, 4/4 in WNC 4/5; al-Quds 4/2, al-Ahram 4/4, MENA 4/6 in WNC 4/7; JP, PR 4/9)

Israel celebrates passover, leaving borders with occupied territories open rather than sealing them as it usually does on Jewish holidays. (WT 4/1)

PA releases 11 political detainees, all mbrs. of Hamas or Islamic Jihad, to mark Id al-Adha. (PR 4/9)

The IDF places a blockade on the West Bank village of Dayr Abu Mishal, nr. Ramallah, after a Jewish settler claims that Palestinians threw stones at him fr. the direction of the village. Israeli soldiers arrest 21 teenagers. (LAW 4/5)

2 mbrs. of the Democratic Front for the Liberation of Palestine are wounded in a clash with mbrs. of Fatah Uprising in al-Baddawi refugee camp in s. Lebanon. (VOL 4/1 in WNC 4/2; SA 4/2 in WNC 4/5)

Social/Economic/Political

Arab World: PLO chairman Yasir Arafat calls on Israeli Arabs to "push forward the peace process" by voting in Israel's upcoming elections [LAT 10/24]. Pres. Mubarak of Egypt and Arafat fly to Baghdad, meet with Saddam Husayn [LAT 10/24].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Troops wound 9 Palestinians during protests in the occupied territories [NYT 10/24]. Clashes occur in Nablus, Jenin, Ramallah, Jabalya, Rafah, Beach, Sa'ir [FJ 10/30].

Arab World: Between 4 and 6 PFLP guerrillas are killed by Israeli troops in south Lebanon [NYT 10/24]. Israeli troops arrest "several" others in south Lebanon in connection with 10/19 car bombing [NYT 10/ 24, WP 10/25]

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: At inner cabinet meeting ministers Yitzhaq Modai and Ariel Sharon call for Israeli annexation of occupied territories; ministers from Labor party counter that annexation of 850,000 W. Bank Palestinians would dilute the Jewish character of Israel [WP 8/4]. In Nablus total strike is observed [FJ 8/7].

Arab World: In Baghdad the PLO announces it will perform duties of legitimate representative of Palestinian people; it gives little indication how it will carry out its new duties in territories [WP 8/4].

Military

Occupied Palestine/Israel: IDF destroys 10 homes, seals 2 of families of people suspected of throwing Molotov cocktails at army patrols, settlers [WP 8/4, FJ 8/7]. In Nablus Israeli troops use rubber bullets, helicopters to quell demonstrators. In Irtas, near Bethlehem, troops arrest 11. Clashes occur in Salfit, Jabalya, Khan Yunis, Rafah, Gaza City, Beach, Bayt Hanun, and Bayt Lahiya [FJ 8/7].

Other Countries: Negotiations in U.S. Congress clear way for Kuwait to buy sophisticated weapons from U.S.; restriction will be placed on the weapons to ensure Israeli security [WP 8/4].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Report issued by 6 Israeli doctors concludes IDF should stop using high velocity bullets that have left 15 people fully or partially paralyzed. Report also accuses the army of misusing tear gas. Faysal al-Husayni is released after 9 months without charge or trial [WP 6/10, LAT 6/12]. Ya'akov Orr, military commander of the Gaza Strip, states that 25% of the 200 Palestinian police that resigned during the uprising have returned to work [WP 6/9].

Arab World: At Arab summit, Arab states pledge to support Palestinian uprising with "all possible means," refuse to state dollar amount of support. Arab leaders also refuse to dismiss George Shultz' peace plan, while reaffirming the PLO's position as sole representative of the Palestinian people [WP 6/10, LAT 6/10].

Other Countries: Israeli P.M. Shamir and Soviet F.M. Shevardnadze meet for 2 hours at the UN, announce that planned visit of Israeli consular team to Moscow will take place in July. Shevardnadze also states diplomatic relations between the 2 will not be restored until Israel agrees to international peace conference [NYT 6/10]. At meeting of the Socialist International in Madrid the Palestinian intifadah is called a response to "the unbearable social conditions existing in the territories occupied by Israel" [FJ 6/12].

Military Occupied

Palestine/Israel: Demonstrations in honor of the 6-month anniversary of the uprising erupt on the W. Bank leaving 2 Palestinians dead, at least 4 more injured. In Sebastiya a 16-year-old isshot dead while trying to hurl a rock at soldiers [WP 6/10, FJ 6/12]. 18-year-old male and 12-year-old girl are shot during demonstrations in Tulkarm. Shopowners observe a strike in the territories, including East Jerusalem [LAT 6/12]. Afternoon demonstrations erupt in Gaza City. One of the injured claims soldiers tied him up and dragged him behind a jeep [WP 6/9]. Two IDF officers are slightly injured when their jeep is attacked with Molotov cocktails [WP 6/10]. In Gaza, soldiers order a man out of his house and then demolished with a bulldozer; army says the man had tried to burn down a local government building [NYT 6/10]. Demonstrations in Bayt Furik leave 27 Palestinians injured [FJ 6/12]. In Balatah 100 Palestinians are arrested [FJ 6/121

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: A general strike is observed in the occupied territories. Several demonstrations areheld on 40-day anniversary of the death of Abu Jihad. Several refugee camps are placed under curfews [NYT 5/26, FJ 5/29].

Military

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Soldiers injure 58 Palestinians during clashes in jabalya. The military uproots 150 trees in the village of Bayt Iba [FJ 5/29].

Arab World: Israeli air power and artillery aid the South Lebanon Army's attack on a Hizballah stronghold in S. Lebanon. Israeli helicopter gunships attack Palestinian refugee camp near Sidon. Amal announces it will join Hizballah in the fight against the Israelis. Amal also claims to have shot down an Israeli helicopter over Lebanon [NYT 5/26]. 

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: In Jerusalem, U. S. ambassador to the UN, Vernon Walters, seeks Israeli assurances that it will not attack Hizballah positions in Lebanon for fear it may endanger the lives of the hostages held in Beirut [LAT 5/20].

Arab World: Egyptian foreign minister 'Ismat 'Abd al-Magid arrives in Moscow; is expected to sign a major, five-year economic and trade agreement with the U.S.S.R. [WT 5/20].

Military Actio

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Curfews in 'Anabta and Tulkarm enter sixth day, army prevents food, medical supplies from entering [FJ 5/22]. In the village of Salim, IDF uproots almond and olive trees along the main road [FJ 5/22]. In Hebron P. M. Yitzhaq Shamir says that Israel was on the way to restoring "anormal situation" in the occupied territories UP 5/21].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Palestinians in occupied territories strike in response to call for "day of confrontation" [WP 5/5]. Israel appoints 'Ali Jarrar acting mayor of Qabatiyyah, near Jenin [FJ 5/8].

Arab World: Baghdad sources report PLO Executive Com. has elected Mahmud 'Abbas (Abu Mazin) to replace Khalil al-Wazir (Abu Jihad) as chairman of Palestinian delegation to joint Palestinian-Jordanian com. on occupied territories affairs [FJ 5/8].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: In Gaza Strip, 2 Palestinians are shot dead, another dies from tear gas during fierce clashes in Beach and Jabalya camps. Demonstrations erupt during funerals in spite of curfews; many are injured by tear gas, iron bars. In Salim village, 2 Palestinians are shot, wounded. Balatah camp is put under curfew. Demonstrations are reported in Ramallah district village of Silwad, Am'ari camp, Jenin, Bani Na'im, Bethlehem, and Tulkarm [FJ 5/8]. Army blocks 5 entrances to 'Ayn Bayt al-Ma' refugee camp with concrete-filled barrels [FJ 5/8].

Arab World: Israeli troops attack Lebanese village of Maydun and nearby villages, killing more than 40 Hizballah fighters, before pulling back to S. Lebanon security zone to end "Operation Law and Order"; 3 Israeli soldiers are killed and 17 wounded in fighting [WP 5/5].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli court convicts John Demjanjuk of crimes against the Jewish people, crimes against humanity, war crimes, and crimes against a persecuted people [WP 4/19]. General strike continues in occupied territories [FJ 4/24]. Israeli officials confiscate al-Fajr, al-Quds, and al-Sha'b. Al-Fajr is banned from distribution in W. Bank and Gaza Strip for 2 weeks [FJ 4/24].

Arab World: PLO announces Khalil al-Wazir will be buried in Syria. Tunisian govemment officially blames Israel for assassination of Wazir [WP 4/19].

Other Countries: U.S. condemns murder of PLO military leader Khalil al-Wazir as "act of political assassination" [NYT 4/19].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Entire W. Bank, except Jericho, is declared closed military zone [FJ 4/24]. Palestinian is killed when soldiers open fire on demonstration in Rafah. Palestinian from Gaza's Zaytun quarter is shot dead in separate incident. In Jenin, protester is shot in head, seriously wounded. Curfews continue in 16 camps, Nablus, and 'Anabta. Village of 'Azzun is ordered under curfew [FJ 4/24]. 

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Al-'Awdah Palestinian weekly is ordered closed within 15 days [WP 4/18]. Supreme Muslim Council declares 3 days of mouming for Khalil al-Wazir [NYT 4/18]. Youth from village of Yabid, near Jenin, dies from wounds sustained during 4/16 clash [FJ 4/24]. Israeli authorities ban distribution of al-Quds and al-Sha'b in W. Bank and Gaza Strip [FJ 4/24].

Arab World: PLO announces desire to bury Khalil al-Wazir (Abu Jihad) in Jordan within view of W. Bank [WP 4/18].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Military imposes curfews in 20 refugee camps and 2 cities in occupied territories; 5 W. Bank towns are declared closed military zones [CSM 4/18]. Widespread demonstrations and clashes continue. Soldiers wound 2 Palestinians in Nur Shams refugee camp [WP 4/18]. Palestinian is shot dead during demonstration in 'Ubaydiyyah [FJ 4/24].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: General strike is observed in occupied territories [FJ 4/24].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Violent demonstrations break out in Gaza Strip and W. Bank following news reports of Abu Jihad's assassination. At least 14 are killed by army gunfire in occupied territories; many others are wounded. Military orders 10 refugee camps under curfew [WP 4/17, 4/18]. Nablus is declared a closed military area. Soldiers use tear gas, bullets against large demonstrations in al-Birah and Ramallah, injuring at least 2. Palestinians and Israeli troops also clash in Tulkarm, Jenin, and Duhayshah camp [FJ 4/24].

Arab World: PLO military leader Khalil al-Wazir (Abu Jihad) is gunned down in his Tunis home; chauffeur and 2 bodyguards are also killed [WP 4/17; NYT 4/18].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: IDF Deputy Chief of Staff Ehud Barak says army reserve duty will be lengthened from 40 to 62 days [CSM 3/13].

Arab World: In Kasara, Lebanon, 8 Palestinians deported 4/11 announce they will stage sit-in strike at Red Cross offices [NYT 4/13].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Palestinians in occupied territories protest expulsion of 8 Palestinians 4/11. Curfews are imposed in Beach and Jabalya camps after clashes in which tear gas, gravel, and marbles were fired on demonstrators from army helicopter; 1 Palestinian is wounded by army gunfire in Jabalya. UN and hospital officials in Gaza City report treating 42 Palestinians for injuries from beatings, rubber bullets, and tear gas inhalation [NYT 4/13; FJ 4/17]. In W. Bank village of Asirah al-Shamaliyyah, 3 Palestinians are injured by live ammunition. In Ramallah-district village of Kafr Malik, soldiers raid houses during night; 5 are shot, wounded in violent clash. Army uses bulldozers to block village entrances with rocks. Several hundred are detained in mass arrests in occupied territories [FJ 4/17]. 

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: General strike is observed in most of the occupied territories [WP, NYT 2/17]. Occupied territories' civil administration lowers limit on amount of money that can be brought into W. Bank from Jordan [NYT 2/17]. Maj. Gen. Ehud Barak, Israel's deputy chief of staff and Def. Min. Rabin confirm soldiers buried 4 Palestinians alive 2/5 [WP 2/17]. Rabin announces his intention to establish military appeals court in occupied territories [CSM 2/17]. In Tel Aviv, 800 attend conference organized by Israeli intellectuals demanding Israeli government begin peace talks with Palestinians [NYT 2/18]. Israeli High Court upholds army order banning distribution of al-Quds newspaper in occupied territories [FJ 2/21]. Jewish settlers raid 'Azzah refugee camp near Bethlehem, shoot and wound 1 youth [FJ 2/21].

Arab World: UNRWA announces the suspension of all activities in Lebanon requiring intemational staff, and transfer of operations from Lebanon to Syria [FJ 2/21].

Other Countries: Israeli P.M. Shamir ends 2-day visit to Italy [WP 2/17].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli riot police halt bus carrying Palestinian high school students from Haifa to Umm al-Fahm; several students are beaten. At least 1 Palestinian is shot, wounded during clash with Israeli soldiers in Jenin. In Qabatiyyah, 2 Palestinians are shot, wounded when soldiers open fire on demonstrators [WP 2/17]. Army seizes 3 school buildings for military posts in Nablus [FJ 2/21]. Palestinian demonstrators bum tires and throw stones at entrance to Gush Qatif settlement in Gaza. In Rafah camp 4 are wounded in clash with soldiers [FJ 2/21]. In Sura and Majd villages, near Hebron, protesters bum Israeli buses. Soldiers use tear gas, rubber bullets to break up demonstration in Fawwar refugee camp, wounding 9. Protests are held in Jenin refugee camp, Duhayshah camp and Bani Na'im village [FJ 2/21].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/lIsrael Government schools in Jerusalem are ordered closed for 1 week [WP 2/6; FJ 2/7]. Commercial strike in occupied territories continues [FJ 2/7]. Settlers attack Ya'bad village near Jenin, injuring 22 residents, breaking car windows, and burning village water pump [FJ 2/7]. In Hawara village, near Nablus, child is shot, wounded by settler [FJ 2/7].

Arab World: Gunmen kidnap 2 UNRWA employees near Sidon, S. Lebanon [WP 2/6].

Other Countries: In Tokyo, march and rally protest Israeli actions in the occupied territories [FJ 2/7].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: IDF patrol captures 3 armed fighters who crossed Egyptian border [NYT 2/12]. In village of Salim, near Nablus, troops and settlers beat 4 Palestinian youths, force them to remove stone barricade, then use bulldozer to bury them alive. Unconscious youths are dug out by villagers [NYT 2/14]. Curfews remain in effect in 'A'idah camp, Nablus region, Tulkarm, Tulkarm camp, village of Thinabbah, and 9 other camps and cities. 'Azzah camp is declared closed military zone [FJ 2/7]. Worshipers stone police during demonstration outside Dome of the Rock Mosque; 6 Palestinians are wounded. In Qalandiya, Israeli soldiers use rubber bullets, live ammunition during clash with demonstrators; camp is sealed off. Jewish settler receives serious head injury from rocks thrown at car [WP 2/6]. In Gaza Strip's Jabalya refugee camp, demonstrators set fire to civil court building; troops fire tear gas, rubber bullets to disperse stone-throwing crowds; 4 areas of camp are raided. Hospitals treat 21 Palestinians for injuries caused by beatings [WP 2/6; FJ 2/7]. Military authorities shut off electricity to Gaza City [WP 2/6]. Demonstrations and clashes are also reported in Ramallah, al-Birah camp, Am'ari camp, and Silwad village near Ramallah [FJ 2/7].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Officials indicate Israel's leaders have decided to postpone expulsion of 5 Palestinians [WP 1/29]. Police Min. Haim Bar-Lev tours Nablus and 'Askar camp, confirms Irael will build several new detention centers in occupied territories, including 1 for children [FBIS 1/28; WP 1/29]. Israeli bus used to transport Palestinian workers to jobs inside green line is torched in Tulkarm district. Commercial strike continues in Ramallah, al-Birah, and E. Jerusalem [FBIS 1/28, 1/29]. Leaflets signed by PLO and Unified National Com. for the Uprising call for general strike to continue, renewed mass demonstrations beginning 1/30 [WP 1/29, 2/2]. According to Israeli officials, 111 W. Bank residents and 18 Gazans have been placed under administrative detention since 12/9; 1,753 have been arrested; and 577 have already received prison sentences for participating in the uprising [FBIS 1/28].

Arab World: PFLP denies Jordanian accusations that it attempted to incite rebellion against the Hashimite regime [FBIS 1/29].

Other Countries: U.S. Pres. Reagan holds talks with Egyptian Pres. Husni Mubarak. Both urge Israeli and Palestinian acceptance of 6-month cooling-off period [NYT, WP 1/29].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Palestinian sources report 1 demonstrator is killed by army gunfire in Rafah [FJ 1/31]. Military rounds up males between the ages of 15 and 45 in Shu'fat during night raid [NYT 1/30]. Troops teargas Palestinian demonstrators in Nablus. Curfews continue in Bayt 'Ur al-Tahta village and Sa'ir [FBIS 1/28]. Curfew on Jabalya refugee camp is lifted [FBIS 1/29]. Military lifts curfew on Jalazun refugee camp, reimposes curfew on Qabatiyyah village following morning protests. Yediot Aharonot reports IDF has established a regional headquarters and several camps in Gaza Strip, a sign it plans to maintain high levels of deployment [FBIS 1/29]. IDF reports scattered incidents of stone throwing in Gaza Strip [FJ 1/31].

Arab World: Israeli warplanes conduct mock raids over al-Awwali Bridge. IDF gunboats fire flares over Sidon [FBIS 1/29].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Arab merchants in E. Jerusalem continue commercial strike. About 600 police and border police stand guard outside al-Haram al-Sharif; 4 Palestinians are arrested on charges of inciting demonstration. Jerusalem Police Chief Yosef Yehudai asks for, receives emergency security powers; Jerusalem neighborhood of al-Tur is placed under curfew [WP 1/23]. Military closes al-Quds for 45 days [FBIS 1/22]. Israel reports capture of 8-member armed PFLP cell in W. Bank, alleges group was responsible for October 1987 murder of Yigdal Shahaf [FBIS 1/26]. Arsonists set fire to customs department in Hebron [FJ 1/24].

Other Countries: UN Sec. Gen. Javier Perez de Cuellar releases report on Palestinian uprising in occupied territories, condemning Israeli use of harsh methods against demonstrators and endorsing plan for international peace conference on Middle East [WP 1/23].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Military lifts curfews on Rafah, Khan Yunis, Beach, and Dayr al-Balah refugee camps. Curfews remain in effect in Gaza Strip's Jabalya, Nusayrat, Maghazi, and Burayj camps. Curfews continue in W. Bank's old and new 'Askar camps and villages of Sa'ir and al-Mazra'ah al-Sharqiyyah. Curfews are imposed on Tulkarm refugee camp and Ramallah-area village of Bayt 'Ur al-Tahta after marches and stone throwing [FBIS 1/22; FJ 1/24].

Arab World: Amal releases 3 Palestinians [FBIS 1/22]. Salah Salah, Palestinian command secretary in S. Lebanon, announces his forces will withdraw from Sidon and Iqlim al-Tuffah roads [FBIS 1/25].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: General strike in E. Jerusalem, W. Bank, and Gaza Strip continues despite military efforts to open stores [WP, CSM 1/21]. In Gaza Strip, 7 refugee camps remain under curfew. Accident involving stone-throwing youths and police jeep in E. Jerusalem suburb of 'Isawiyyah leaves 1 youth, 2police officers injured [LAT 1/21]. Army, police, and Jerusalem officials confirm that under new agreement Jerusalem police can request emergency powers from military, allowing them to impose curfews, force shops to open [NYT 1/2 1]. Israel announces capture of 3 Palestinians accused of 1986 attempted murder of soldier [FBIS 1/21; FJ 1/24]. In Burqin, near Salfit, Jewish settlers attack houses; 1 resident is beaten [FJ 1/24]. Israeli officials order Hebron Polytechnic closed indefinitely [FJ 1/24].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli soldiers kill 3 armed Palestinians shortly after they cross Israel's northern border from Lebanon. Fateh claims responsibility for infiltration. At least 20 stone-throwing Palestinian demonstrators aearrested during violent riots in al-Ram, near Jerusalem. Reports indicate many residents of Shu'fat in E. Jerusalem are detained, beaten by border police in nighttime crackdown on alleged protesters [WP 1/21; FJ 1/24]. Violent clashes between demonstrators and Israeli troops are reported in E. Jerusalem and numerous W. Bank refugee camps, villages, and towns. More than 50 Palestinians are beaten by Israeli troops in Gaza Strip camp [CSM, LAT 1/21]. Estimated 100 youth are beaten in army raid of Jenin-district vllage of 'Arrabah [FJ 1/24]. Arab World: Amal militiamen end 3-year siege of Beirut's Burj al-Barajinah and Shatila refugee camps [WP 1/21]. At Fez U., students demonstrating in solidarity with Palestinians in occupied territories and against regime clash with police, soldiers; 9 demonstrators are wounded, and 1 dies later of injuries [FBIS 1/22]. 

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: More than 1,000 regular and border police are deployed in Jerusalem as Palestinians in E. Jerusalem and occupied territories hold day of mourning to commemorate victims of recent violence. Israel confirms deaths of 2 Palestinians inearlier clashes [NYT 1/16]. General strike is observed in W. Bank [FJ 1/17].

Arab World: In Biqa' Valley village of Kasara, 4 deported W. Bank Palestinians set up tents across from International Com. of the Red Cross office, begin hunger strike [WP 1/16].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: At least 70 Palestinians are injured by tear gas, clubs, and rubber bullets when Israeli police, border police attack worshipers at al-Haram al-Sharif. Reports indicate tear gas is fired into Dome of the Rock, al-Aqsa Mosque. [NYT 1/16] In Gaza Strip's al-Shaykh 'Ajlin soldiers shoot, kill Palestinian who stabs soldier in leg [WP, NYT 1/17]. Family says youth is shot at home after quarrel with soldiers [FJ 1/17]. Military-imposed curfew continues for 6 W. Bank and 7 Gaza Strip refugee camps [WP, NYT 1/16]. Israeli forces fire rubber bullets to disperse crowd of Palestinians surrounding UN envoy Marrack Goulding in Balatah refugee camp [WP 1/17]. On W. Bank, roadblocks and clashes between soldiers and protesters occur in Ramallah and al-Birah. Al-Fajr reports demonstrations in 'Arrub, Fawwar, Balatah, and 'Azzah refugee camps, Bayt Fajjar, Bethlehem, Kissan, and Nablus. At least 2 are injured by Israeli army gunfire in Nablus-district town of Salfit, and at least 7 are wounded in Qalqiliyyah [FJ 1/17].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Palestinian youth from Beach camp wounded in 12/11 clash with Israeli troops dies in Gaza hospital [NYT 12/22; FJ 12/27]. Def. Min. Rabin returns from U.S. visit [NYT 12/23]. Al-Fajr Arabic daily resumes publication after 10-day closure [FJ 12/27]. Arab and Israeli Hebrew U. students demonstrate outside Knesset in solidarity with Palestinians in W. Bank and Gaza Strip [FJ 12/27]. Military extends closure of Gaza's Islamic U. and Palestine Religious Institute until 12/27 [FJ 12/27]. Israel releases 60 Gazans arrested during recent demonstrations [FJ 12/27].

Arab World: In Cairo, 'Ayn Shams U. students demonstrate in support of Palestinian uprising in the occupied territories [FBIS 12/29].

Other Countries: UN Security Council meeting on recent violence in the Israeli-occupied Gaza Strip, W. Bank adjourns after PLO and some Arab governments push for more strongly worded resolution against Israel [NYT 12/22]. Midhat Hilali, Arab League official, is shot, wounded by unknown assailant in Athens [FJ 12/27]. Ibrahim Khalid, Palestinian gunman who survived December 1985 attack on Leonardo da Vinci airport, refuses to attend his trial [FJ 12/27].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Inside the green line, hundreds of thousands of Arabs join general strike in solidarity with Palestinians in occupied territories. Israeli police, border guards respond to large demonstrations with tear gas, water cannons. About 200 Palestinians are arrested; 17 Israeli police, border guards injured [WP 12/22; FJ 12/27]. Stone-throwing, tire-burning crowds of demonstrators are reported in Jaffa, Nazareth, Lydda, Ramlah, and Abu Ghawsh. IDF troops fire on West Bank Palestinian crowds throwing Molotov cocktails, killing at least 2 in Jenin-area town of Tubas and 1 in Jenin. At least 22 are wounded by gunfire [NYT, WP 12/22]. Official Israeli death toll of Palestinians killed since 12/9 is now at 19 [CSM 12/22].

Arab World: Israeli and SLA forces raid Hizballah-held villages in S. Lebanon [FJ 12/27].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Military orders all government schools in W. Bank closed for 2 days [LAT 12/21; FJ 12/27]. Israeli cabinet discusses violence in the occupied territories, defends army's handling of disturbances [LAT 12/21]. Davar reports police investigation into death of 'Awad Hamdan, Palestinian who died while in police custody, had uncovered evidence suggesting 1of 3 Israeli interrogators was involved in Hamdan's death; other interrogators will be reprimanded for lying to Landau Commission [FJ 12/27]. Israel orders Hebron U., Abu Dis College, and al-'Asriyyah Community College closed for 1 month because of recent student protests [FJ 12/27]. Umm al-Fahm residents protest Israeli measures in occupied territories, call for end to occupation [FJ 12/27]. In meeting with Pres. Herzog, Italy's Pres. Cossiga expresses concern about events in occupied territories [FBIS 12/22].

Arab World: Egypt delivers formal protest of Israel's handling of occupied territory disturbances to Israeli ambassador, the 5th such protest in 12 days. Hani al-Hassan, aide to PLO Chairman Yasir Arafat, arrives in Egypt for talks [NYT 12/21]. In Sidon, 7,500 Palestinian and Lebanese Muslim protesters join in anti-Israel march [CSM, LAT 12/21].

Other Countries: Pope John Paul II appeals for peace in Holy Land, expresses support for Palestinian people [WP 12/21].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Violent disturbances continue in W. Bank and Gaza Strip; at least 6 are shot, wounded in clashes with Israeli troops, 4 of them during large demonstration in West Bank's Far'ah refugee camp [LAT 12/21]. Curfews are imposed on Far'ah and 'Askar refugee camps [NYT 12/21]. Soldiers clash with large demonstration in Ramallah, and Am'ari, Jalazun, and Qalandiya refugee camps [FJ 12/27]. Protesters burn, destroy Egged bus carrying workers from Rafah [FJ 12/27].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Minister of Industry and Trade Ariel Sharon moves into apartment in Muslim quarter of Jerusalem's Old City; merchants close shops in protest [LAT 12/16]. Complete commercial strike closes stores in E. Jerusalem, Nablus, Jenin, Ramallah, al-Birah, and other W. Bank towns [FJ 12/20]. Israel bans distribution of al-Sha'b in W. Bank and Gaza Strip for 12 days [FJ 12/20]. Khan Yunis youth shot 12/12 by Israeli soldiers dies in Barzali Hospital [FJ 12/20]. Palestinian journalists from occupied territories hold sit-in at Arab Journalists' Association's Jerusalem office to protest administrative detention of Radwan Abu 'Ayyash [FJ 12/20]. Israeli police announce capture of 2 Palestinians charged with murder of Israeli soldier [FJ 12/20].

Arab World: Arab League calls for emergency session to discuss Israeli actions in occupied territories [CSM 12/16].

Other Countries: Trial of Ibrahim Khalid, only survivor of 4-man team that attacked Leonardo da Vinci Airport in 1985, opens in Rome. Abu Nidal and Rashid Hamida are being tried in absentia [LAT 12/16]. U.S. calls for Israeli restraint in handling disturbances in W. Bank and Gaza Strip [NYT 12/16]. Israeli Def. Min. Rabin meets with U.S. congressional leaders in Washington [WP 12/19].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: IDF soldiers fire on Palestinian demonstrators at Gaza's Shifa Hospital, killing at least 2, wounding more than 11. Dozens are arrested. Palestinians at hospital attack Western journalists. UN reports 2 Palestinians are shot, killed: 1 at Bayt Hanun, in northern Gaza Strip, and 1 at Dayr al-Balah refugee camp. Palestine Press Service reports another demonstrator is killed by soldiers during protest march from Beach refugee camp to Shifa Hospital [LAT, NYT 12/16]. In W. Bank, demonstrations are reported in Nablus, Bir Zeit, Abu Dis village near Jerusalem, and Qalandiya, Am'ari, and Jalazun refugee camps [FJ 12/20].

Arab World: With tank and helicopter support, Israeli troops move north of S. Lebanon security zone, raid Shi'i villages of Maydun and Kafr Hunah. Lebanese sources report 6 fighters are wounded, 20 captured [NYT 12/16].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: MK Abba Eban testifies in Mordechai Vanunu's trial for espionage and treason. Trial is adjourned for 2 weeks [WP 12/11]. Palestinian wounded in Gaza clash with Israeli troops 12/9 dies [FJ 12/13]. In Nablus, Ahmad 'Ali Abu Jabir receives life sentence for killing Israeli soldier [FJ 12/13]. In Dhahriyyahrea, Israeli officials demolish 5 houses alleging they were built without permits [FJ 12/13]. Islamic U. in Gaza suspends classes for 3 days because of tension in the Strip [FJ 12/13]. Israeli High Court denies Faysal Husayni's appeal for early release [FJ 12/13]. Com. to Protect Journalists, non-partisan, New York-based group, protests administrative detention of Radwan Abu 'Ayyash to Def. Min. Yitzhaq Rabin [FJ 12/27].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/lIsrael: Palestinians bum tires, block roads, throw stones in demonstrations throughout Gaza Strip. In Khan Yunis, at least 8 Palestinians are wounded when soldiers open fire on crowd throwing Molotov cocktails; 2 others are wounded in Gaza. In Nablus soldiers use live ammunition against youths throwing rocks, iron bars; 1 Palestinian is killed. In Qalandiya refugee camp, north of Jerusalem, Israeli police clash with Palestinian students; 6 policemen, 6 students are reported injured [NYT 12/11]. Israeli troops fire tear gas, bullets at demonstrators in Balatah refugee camp, wounding 3. Curfew is imposed on Balatah; shopkeepers strike [FJ 12/13]. Demonstrators in Rafah raze gate dividing Egyptian and Israeli-occupied sections; Israeli soldiers open fire, injuring 1 [FJ 12/13].

Arab World: Lebanese militiamen attack Israeli patrol boat off coast of S. Lebanon; 1 Israeli naval officer is killed before Arab fishing boat is sunk [WP 12/12].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: E. Jerusalem schools, shops remain closed to protest 10/11 clash between police, Jews, and Muslims at al-Aqsa Mosque [FBIS 10/13]. EEC Commissioner Claude Cheysson concludes 3 days of negotiations with Israeli leaders on direct export of W. Bank and Gaza Strip produce to W. Europe [MET 10/24]. Military orders 2 Gaza Strip secondary schools closed for 1 week [FJ 10/18]. Israeli officials partially lift travel ban for Gaza residents [FJ 10/18].

Arab World: Fateh official Abu Iyad (Salah Khalaf) announces that group of Palestinian notables from occupied territories has requested meeting with U.S. Sec. of State George Shultz during his visit to Israel [FBIS 10/13].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: In Ramallah, Palestinian bystander is shot, killed when Israeli troops open fire on stone-throwing demonstrators; 5 other Palestinians are injured [FBIS 10/13; WP 10/14]. Violent protests continue in Gaza Strip [FBIS 10/13]. At Bethlehem University, stonethrowing student demonstrators clash with IDF soldiers; university is ordered closed until 10/18 [FJ 10/18].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Demonstrators in Ramallah burn tires and throw stones at IDF patrols. Gaza confrontation results in wounding of 1 soldier and 1 protester [FJ 4/19]. Lydda military court hands down 20-year sentence in case of Shakir Mustafa 'Ayyash, convicted of planting bombs in Tel Aviv in 1979 [FJ 4/19]. Jerusalem's al-Ibrahimiyyah College and Gaza's Islamic U. suspend classes until 4/18 to protest harassment of universities in occupied territories [FJ 4/19]. Bethlehem U. ordered closed until 4/22 [FJ 4/19].

Arab World: Salah Khalaf (Abu lyad) announces PLO decision to abandon pact with Jordan and instead form wider accord with Arab governments [NYT 4/15]. Egypt's Pres. Mubarak says PLO decision to cancel Amman accords reduces chance for international Middle East peace conference in 1987 [SG 4/16].

Military Action

Arab World: Syrian troops reach Awwali River in S. Lebanon [BG 4/16].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Ira Rappaport, leader of Israel's Jewish settlement movement, is charged with 1980 bombing that seriously wounded Bassam Shaka'a, former mayor of Nablus. Rappaport surrendered to police when he returned from 3-year stay in U.S. [WP 12/10].

Arab World: Egypt accuses Israel of using "violent repressive measures" against Palestinian protestors in occupied territories [BS 12/10; FJ 12/12].

Other Countries: Before the House Foreign Affairs Com., former U.S. National Security Adviser Robert McFarlane testifies that Israeli official David Kimche supplied him with a list of more than 800 "moderate" Iranian leaders. Vice Adm. John Poindexter, Lt. Col. Oliver North, and retired Air Force Gen. Richard Secord refuse to answer questions before the committee [WSJ 12/10].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Estimated 1,000 students and faculty members hold peaceful march from Birzeit U.'s new campus to the closed old- campus. Israeli troops force businesses in Ramallah, al-Birah, and Nablus to open [FJ 12/12]. Israeli military spokesman says troops fired in self-defense and student demonstration was "prepared in advance" [JP 12/10]. Palestinian youth is shot and seriously wounded in fight with Israeli soldier in Gaza; another is wounded when soldiers fire at stone-throwing marchers. Four Palestinians have been killed, at least 27 wounded in the last 6 days of Arab rioting [NYT, WP 12/10].

Arab World: Soviet ambassador in Beirut says his government is trying to mediate in battle between Amal and PLO [BS 12/10].