The Palestine Chronology

Israeli ministerial comm. unanimously approves Har Homa construction plan, says 3,015 housing units for Arabs may be built adjacent to the Har Homa settlement, but does not approve any funding for their construction. (Since 1990, Israel has allowed Arabs to build only 663 units in East Jerusalem, while allowing Israelis to build 13,835 units.) (MM 2/26; SANA 2/26 in WNC 2/27; MM, NYT, WP, WT 2/27; WP 3/2; JP 3/8) (see 2/19)

King Hussein sends an envoy to Israel to urge Netanyahu to reconsider the Har Homa decision. (WP 2/27) (see 2/25)

The Jordan-Israel Aqaba-Elat Comm. convenes in Aqaba. (al-Aswaq 2/27+n28 in WNC 3/3)

3 leftist Jordanian parties (Jordanian Arab Ba'th Socialist Party, the pan-Arab National Action Party, the Arab Land Party) announce they are merging to form the Jordanian Nationalist Democratic Front. Jordanian elections are 9 mos. away; Jordan's 26 official parties are trying to work out common platforms to field candidates on united lists. (JT 2/27 in WNC 3/3)

Turkey says it is considering recalling its envoys fr. Tehran amid a diplomatic crisis sparked by Iran's perceived support for Turkish Islamists who are politically opposed to the Turkish military, which advocates government secularism. (AFP 2/27 in WNC 3/4)

In Washington, the family of Alisa Flatow, killed in the 4/9/95 suicide bombing in the Gaza Strip, file a $150-m. lawsuit against Iran. The federal Antiterrorism Act of 1996 allows families of victims of terrorism to bring civil actions against countries designated by the State Dept. as sponsors of terrorism. Lawyers claim the bombing was carried out by Islamic Jihad, with Iran's financial backing. (WT 2/27; WJW 3/6; JP 3/8)

U.S. special envoy Ross holds intensive talks with Israeli, PA negotiators, offers some ideas (not specified) for bridging gaps. DM Mordechai says that Israeli will implement further redeployment immediately after a Hebron deal is reached, if Arafat promises to "wage an uncompromising war against terrorism." (IDF Radio, ITV 12/22 in WNC 12/24; MM, NYT, WP 12/23)

In Lod, Israeli military court sentences 2 Palestinians to 2 consecutive life terms each for driving suicide bombers to the scenes of the 2-3/96 bombings in Israel. (WP, WT 12/23)

After 2 firebombs are thrown at a Jewish settlement without causing injuries, IDF imposes a curfew on Hebron; rounds up 100 Palestinians; then forces Palestinian stores to closes, prompting riot. (CSM, WP, WT 12/23; WJW 12/26)

In Tel Aviv, Israeli DM Mordechai briefs Jordanian Information M Marwan Mu`asher on negotiations with the PA. Mu`asher warns Israel on expanding settlements, raising fears of a military conflict with Syria. (ITV, JTV 12/11, IGPO, RJ 12/12 in WNC 12/13)

In Cairo, Netanyahu adviser Gold discuses peace process with Pres. Mubarak. (RE 12/11 in WNC 12/12)

Israeli Justice Min. defends Shin Bet's use of moderate physical pressure in questioning Palestinians suspected of having knowledge of imminent anti-Israeli attacks; claims that 90 incidents (incl. 15 kidnapings of Israeli soldiers and civilians, 10 suicide bombings, 7 car bombings) have been averted over the past 2 yrs. as a result of such pressure. (IDF Radio 12/11 in WNC 12/12; MM 12/20) (see 11/14)

Two settlers are killed, 5 wounded in a drive-by shooting nr. Ramallah, which the IDF immediately seals off along with several surrounding villages. Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP) claims responsibility as a response to Israel's plans to build 132 Jewish houses in East Jerusalem (see 12/8). PA condemns the attack, saying it will give Israel a pretext to further delay negotiations. (MM 12/11; IDF Radio, ITV 12/11, RMC 12/12 in WNC 12/13; MM, NYT, WP, WT 12/12; MA 12/12 in WNC 12/16; WT 12/13; CSM 12/16; QY, YA 12/18 in WNC 12/19; MEI, PR 12/20; JP 12/21, 12/28; MEI 1/10; WJW 1/23)

300 Palestinian students break into Islamic University of Hebron University, sealed by IDF since the 2+n3/96 suicide bombings in Israel; say they will stay until the university is reopened. (CSM, NYT 12/10)

EU special envoy Moratinos meets with King Hussein in Amman. (RJ 12/9 in WNC 12/11; MEI 1/24)

Syrian PM Mahmud Zubi begins 6-day visit to China. (WT 12/11) UN approves implementation of oil-for-food deal for Iraq. (NYT, WP 12/10; JT 12/10 in WNC 12/12; MM 12/11) (see 11/25)

ILMG meets to discuss the IDF's attack on a Lebanese village 12/7 that left 6 civilians wounded. (MM 12/9; RL 12/9 in WNC 12/10; RL 12/9, RMC 12/10 in WNC 12/11)

Dore Gold, adviser to Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu, meets with Arafat adviser Mahmud Abbas, PA Information M Yasir `Abid Rabbu to discuss a memorandum of understanding or pledges concerning aspects of Oslo II that have not been implemented that Netanyahu would extend to Arafat as part of a Hebron deal. (ITV 11/16 in WNC 11/29; JP 11/23)

Arafat adviser Abbas heads to Amman to brief King Hussein on talks with Israel. (JTV 11/16 in WNC 11/19)

Lebanese FM Faris Buwayz tells PM Rafiq Hariri that, after his mtg. with U.S. Amb. Richard Jones 11/15, he is pessimistic that Israeli negotiations with Syrian will resume soon. (RL 11/16 in WNC 11/19)

Hamas mbr. Muhammad Assaf is killed in an explosion in Qabatiyya, West Bank. Israel claims that a bomb that he was preparing for a suicide attack in Israel went off accidentally. Palestinian Security Forces (PSF) arrest 5 men with ties to Assaf. (NYT, WP, WT 11/17; ITV 11/17 in WNC 11/19, 1/29; JP 11/23)

PISMC draws up a "joint paper," compiling a list of 15 points of contention (reportedly incl. hot pursuit, opening of al-Shuhada Street, type of weapons to be carried by PA police, movement of joint patrols) that have not been solve in the past 3 wks. of talks. (MM 10/23; RJ 10/23 in WNC 10/25; NYT 10/24; IDF Radio 10/24 in WNC 10/25; ITV 10/24 in WNC 10/29)

In Ramallah, French Pres. Chirac becomes 1st foreign head of state to address the PC. Chirac then leaves for Amman to meet with King Hussein. (MM 10/23; JT, JTV, LCI 10/23 in WNC 10/25; CSM, NYT, WP, WT 10/24; MEI 10/25; NYT, WT 10/27; JP 11/2)

Knesset Financing Comm. approves funds needed to complete 2,400 housing units in West Bank settlements whose construction was frozen by the previous Labor government. (ITV 10/23 in WNC 10/25)

Fearing a suicide bombing on the 1-yr. anniversary of the assassination of Islamic Jihad leader Fathi Shiqaqi 10/26, Israel seals the West Bank, Gaza. Israeli police shoot, wound 1 Palestinian who walks away fr. a checkpoint btwn. Ramallah, Jerusalem after refusing to show his ID. (ITV 10/23 in WNC 10/25; WP 10/24; CSM 10/25; PR 11/1)

After a wk. of talks in Turkey, U.S. Asst. Secy. of State Pelletreau announces that the KDP, PUK have agreed in principle to an immediate cease-fire, although their fighting continues in Koi Sanjak. (CSM, NYT, WT 10/24) (see 10/17)

PA security forces say they have detained some 80 Islamic Jihad mbrs. in the past few days for plotting against Israeli targets, incl. one group which was about to launch a suicide attack inside Israel. (ITV 9/13 in WNC 9/17)

Iraq says it will no longer fire on planes patrolling the no-fly zone. U.S. says it will reconsider plans to strike Iraq again, but will continue its buildup of forces in the region, sending 5,000 additional troops to Kuwait. (MM 9/13; NYT, WP, WT 9/14) (see 9/12)

IDF ambushes Hizballah unit in s. Lebanon, killing 1. (VOL 9/13 in WNC 9/16; RL 9/13 in WNC 9/17; WT 9/14; RL 9/16 in WNC 9/18)

Israeli cabinet approves creation of Sharon's new Infrastructure Min., with duties as previously outlined (see 6/18, 7/4), incl. supervision of water negotiations with the PA, implementation of water agmts. with Jordan. (QY 7/7, MA, QY 7/8 in FBIS 7/8; MM, NYT 7/8; ITV, QY 7/8 in FBIS 7/9; JP 7/13)

PA releases 20 Palestinians arrested following the 2+n3/96 suicide bombings. Some 700 of the 900 Hamas, Islamic Jihad mbrs. arrested at that time are still in PA custody. (CSM 7/8) (see 7/3)

At the hearing to appeal his life sentence, Rabin assassin Yigal Amir says he is happy the PM is dead, killing him persuaded Israelis to vote for Netanyahu. (NYT, WT 7/8)

PC opens 2-day session in Ramallah. (VOP 7/5 in FBIS 7/5; PWR 7/7; PR 7/12)

Israeli sources say formation of a cease-fire monitoring comm. for s. Lebanon is being held up by a disagreement btwn. Israel, U.S. over the assurances the U.S. promised Israel in a side letter accompanying the cease-fire agmt. (see 4/26). Based on the letter, which has never been made public, Israel demands comm. decisions be made by consensus, not by majority; freedom of movement in s. Lebanon; each country would be able to send inspectors to its own territory only. U.S. disagrees. (HA 7/3 in FBIS 7/3) (see 6/19)

Israeli FM Levy threatens to resign his post if PM Netanyahu does not finalize cabinet position for Sharon within 5 days. (MM 7/3; QY 7/3 in FBIS 7/3; NYT, WT 7/4) (see 6/19)

PA police find Islamic Jihad figure Salih Tahayna stabbed to death nr. al-Bireh. Tahayna was sentence by Israel to 30 yrs. in jail for firing at IDF soldiers, but escaped earlier this yr. during a prisoner transfer. Islamic Jihad blames Mossad, vows revenge. (AFP, QPAR, SARR 7/4 in FBIS 7/5)

PA begins releasing some of the 1,000 Hamas, Islamic Jihad mbrs. arrested after the series of suicide bombings 2+n3/96. (PR 7/12) (see 6/16)

PM Peres returns VIP cards to 3 senior PA officials (Sufyan Abu Zayida, `Abd al-Rahman Hamad, Intisar al-Wazir), which were revoked because the officials tried to bring Palestinian students into Israel with their entourages. (QY 6/16 in FBIS 6/19)

Israeli PM-elect Netanyahu releases vaguely worded government policy guidelines. PC Speaker Ahmad Qurai` and Justice M Frayh Abu-Madayn, condemn guidelines as declaration of war. Syria calls guidelines a "coup against the peace process." (QY 6/16 in FBIS 6/17; NYT, WP, WT 6/17; IGPO 6/17, ITV, VOP 6/18 in FBIS 6/18; MM, WP, WT 6/18; SARR 6/18, 6/19 in FBIS 6/19; WJW, WT 6/20; CSM, PR 6/21)

In last stages of building a government, Israeli PM-elect Netanyahu signs several coalition agmts. with National Religious Party (NRP), Shas, Third Way, assuring support of 55 of the 120 MKs. All 3 parties support negotiations with the Palestinians, oppose compromise on the Golan. In contradiction to Israeli High Court rulings, these agmts. bar Reform, Conservative Jews fr. serving on religious councils controlling Israel's religious life. Discussion with United Torah Judaism (UTJ), Yisrael BaAliya continue. (QY 6/16 in FBIS 6/17; NYT, WT 6/17; NYT 6/18; JP 6/29)

Arafat personally releases top Hamas mbr. Jamal Mansour fr. custody, promises to release more Hamas prisoners in conciliation gesture. Mansour spent 80 days in solitary confinement in the PA's Nablus police station, following the 2-3/96 suicide bombings. (YA 6/16 in FBIS 6/17; WT 6/17)

In West Bank, unidentified gunmen fire on Israeli car, killing 1 man, wounding his wife. IDF places the nearby Palestinian village of Biddiyya under curfew, closes stores until further notice. (QY 6/16 in FBIS 6/19; CSM, NYT, WP 6/17)

In s. Lebanon, Hizballah attacks SLA convoy, killing 1 soldier. (QY, RL 6/16 in FBIS 6/17; CSM 6/17)

In Gaza, National Islamic Salvation Party (NISP) leaders hold "get-acquainted" mtg. with Arafat. PA police detain NISP dep. head Fu'ad Nahal on his way home fr. the mtg., question him for 20 hrs. on alleged fund-raising for Hamas. (QY 3/23, AFP 3/24 in FBIS 3/25; WT 3/24; PR 3/29) (see 11/18/95)

Arafat says that since the recent wave of bombings the PA has detained 900 Hamas, Islamic Jihad mbrs., incl. 35 of 37 wanted by Israel. (QY 3/22 in FBIS 3/22)

In al-Fawwar refugee camp in the West Bank, IDF blows up the family home of the Palestinian who carried out the 2/25 Jerusalem bombing. IDF also blows up home in s. Lebanon where a Hizballah suicide bomber hid. (AFP, QY 3/22 in FBIS 3/22; ITV 3/22 in FBIS 3/25; WT 3/23)

Police in Spain capture escaped Achille Lauro hijacker Molqi in Seville. U.S., Italy both seek his extradition. (NYT, WP, WT 3/23) (see 3/13)

In al-Fawwar refugee camp, the IDF blows up the homes of the 2/25 Jerusalem and Ashkelon suicide bombers, homes of 2 Palestinians suspected of involvement in 8/21/95 bus bombing. (MM 3/20; QY 3/20 in FBIS 3/20; QY 3/20, 3/21 in FBIS 3/21; CSM 3/21)

In s. Lebanon, a Hizballah suicide bomber kills 1 IDF soldier, 1 SLA soldier, wounds 1 Israeli civilian [as reported], 7 IDF soldiers. IDF shells areas n., s. of the self-declared security zone, injuring 1 farmer. (MM 3/20; QY, RL, VOL 3/20, RL 3/21 in FBIS 3/21; CSM, MM, NYT, WP, WT 3/21)

PM Peres, FM Barak hold late-night mtg. on s. Lebanon, how to handle escalating attacks. PM Peres then briefs U.S. Amb. Indyk. Following that mtg., the U.S. relays sharp message to Syria, demanding it curb Hizballah. (IDF Radio, MA, QY 3/21 in FBIS 3/21; ITV 3/22 in FBIS 3/25)

Iraqi war hero Lt. Gen. Nizar Khazraji, fmr. army chief of staff, defects to Jordan by escaping through the Kurdish enclave in n. Iraq. (MM 3/20; WT 3/21; JP 3/21, al-Ra'i 3/22 in FBIS 3/22; NYT, WP 3/22; JT 3/23, JT, al-Ra'i 3/24 in FBIS 3/25; MM 3/25; JT 4/4 in FBIS 4/5)

IDF removes all military roadblocks on the exits of Palestinian cities, villages; says closure on al-Fawwar will be reimposed at 6 p.m. (VOP 3/18, QY 3/19 in FBIS 3/19)

Israel's High Court rules that the IDF can demolish the homes of Palestinians suspected of involvement in the recent suicide bombings. PM Peres says his government is preparing a list of those Islamists who may be deported; families of those listed will not be deported. (MM 3/19; CSM, MM 3/20) (see 3/4-5)

Challenging Israeli censorship laws, the daily paper Ha'Aretz publishes the name of the new Mossad chief Maj. Gen. Danny Yatom. (NYT, WT 3/19; QY 3/19 in FBIS 3/19; CSM 3/20; MM 3/22) (see 1/10)

U.S. Amb. to Israel Martin Indyk relays to PM Peres a message fr. Pres. Clinton urging Israel to avoid a military operation against Hizballah in s. Lebanon. (ITV 3/19, RL 3/20 in FBIS 3/20; QY 3/22 in FBIS 3/22)

Israeli FM Barak says that the IDF will respond to increasing tensions in s. Lebanon by carrying out more operations, "even beyond the security zone"; warns that Israel may be forced "to act in a way that also harms the interests of the Lebanese government." Since 2/16, Hizballah attacks on IDF, SLA position have caused an unusually high number of deaths, injuries. (MA 3/19 in FBIS 3/19; ITV 3/20 in FBIS 3/21)

In Amman, Jordanian Information M Marwan Mu`asher received a U.S. Jewish delegation fr. B'nai B'rith. (RJ 3/19 in FBIS 3/20)

At 6 a.m., Israel lifts restrictions imposed 3/5 confining Palestinians to their towns. Orders barring movement of residents in al-Fawwar camp, Burqa nr. Nablus--the homes of the recent suicide bombers--are kept in place, as is the closure preventing Palestinians fr. entering Israel. Palestinian workers are allowed to return to their jobs in the Erez industrial zone. Transportation of goods is permitted through Qarni crossing point fr. Gaza into Israel. Palestinian fishermen are permitted to go farther out to sea. (QY 3/15 in FBIS 3/15; QY 3/15 in FBIS 3/18; WT 3/16; QY, VOP 3/16, QY 3/18 in FBIS 3/18; MEI 3/29)

When Qarni crossing is not opened by noon, Israel files an official protest with the PA. Israeli Maj. Gen. Oren Shahor criticizes the PA, saying such "neglectful conduct harms the Palestinian residents, although Israel is trying to help them given the current security restrictions." (QY 3/15 in FBIS 3/15)

IDF announces that 3 soldiers will be courtmartialed for allowing a suicide bomber to slip past a checkpoint 3/4. (NYT 3/17)

Israel estimates that 95 percent of Hamas's $70-m. annual budget goes toward charities, hospitals, clinics, schools, with only a small proportion going to pay for weapons and military operations. (NYT 3/15)

IDF deploys tanks along the Green Line for the 1st time since 1967; says they are only their for observation purposes, it is not planning to launch an operation into the West Bank. (AFP, MA, VOP 3/7 in FBIS 3/7; NYT 3/8, 3/10)

Jordan says there are no official Hamas outlets in the kingdom; Hamas's presence is confined to holders of Jordanian passports, whose activities are confined to propaganda and political activities; Jordan is considering banning these activities. (al-Hayat al-Jadida, JTV, RJ 3/6 in FBIS 3/7)

IDF seals the Islamic Technical Institute in Abu-Dis and the Islamic College, Islamic College of Sciences, Polytechnic College in Hebron; announces that the policy on demolition of houses of suicide bombers and accomplices in the Jerusalem area has been changed: To date, such houses have been sealed only, now they may be razed. (MM 3/6; QY 3/6 in FBIS 3/7)

PA military court in Jericho sentences Hamas's Muhammad Abu-Wardah (arrested 3/4) to life imprisonment with hard labor for training suicide bombers and "harming the Palestinian people's interests." (MM 3/6; VOP 3/6 in FBIS 3/6; ITV, JMCC, VOP 3/6, IDF Radio, JP 3/7 in FBIS 3/7)

IDF, Shin Bet announce they have arrested an Israeli-Arab for bringing the Tel Aviv suicide bomber into Israel in exchange for $1,000, say an Islamic Jihad mbr. coordinated the deal (see 3/4). Israeli-Arab leaders are quick to condemn the man's actions as aberrant for the community. IDF also says it has uncovered the Hamas cell led by Muhammad Abu-Wardah that they believe is responsible for the Ashkelon, Jerusalem bombings. (QY 3/6 in FBIS 3/7; NYT, WP 3/7; QY 3/8 in FBIS 3/8) (see 3/6)

PSF detains 10s of alleged Hamas mbrs. in Balata refugee camp, Kafr Khalil, Nablus, bringing to 400 the number of persons recently detained. (QY 3/6 in FBIS 3/6, 3/7)

In Nablus, 1,000s of Fatah supporters hold peace rally. (WT 3/7)

State Dept. warns U.S. citizens against travelling on Israeli busses. Israeli Dep. FM Dayan officially protests. (Davar 3/7 in FBIS 3/7)

IDF deploys throughout the West Bank; blockades 465 Palestinian villages, bars residents fr. leaving them until further notice; busses all Gazans studying in the West Bank back to Gaza; carries out mass arrests. Arafat protests. IDF Central Cmdr. Maj. Gen. Ilan Biran says scope of IDF targets has been widened to include Islamic Jihad, PFLP in addition to Hamas. In Hebron, the IDF seals the homes of 11 suspected Hamas mbrs.; closes several Islamic colleges, youth and charity societies connected to Islamic Jihad, Hamas, PFLP. Arrests at al-Fawwar camp rise to 120. (MM 3/5; QY, VOP 3/5 in FBIS 3/5; IDF Radio, QY 3/5, QY 3/6 in FBIS 3/6; CSM, NYT, WP, WT 3/6; NYT, WT 3/7)

PA seizes 15 West Bank, Gaza mosques, several Islamic welfare associations run by Hamas, puts them under PA control; appoints imams to give Friday sermons. PA police raid Gaza's Islamic University, say it will be disbanded in its current form, reopened as a branch of Cairo University. For the 1st time, PA security forces made joint arrest sweeps with the IDF, arresting the relatives of 1 suicide bomber. (AFP, ITV 3/5, QY, VOP 36 in FBIS 3/6; MM 3/6; MM, WT 3/7; NYT 3/8; NYT 3/9; QY 3/12 in FBIS 3/12; CSM 3/25)

Qassam Brigades issues leaflet in the West Bank announcing it will disarm, halt all military operation against Israelis in response to the call made 3/4 by the political leadership; says it will not be responsible for any action that may be carried out against Israelis. (MM 3/5; VOP 3/5 in FBIS 3/6; AFP, JMCC, VOP 3/6 in FBIS 3/7; AFP 3/9 in FBIS 3/11)

Israeli inner cabinet extends length of administrative detention to 12 mos. and, if necessary, longer; approves deportations for Palestinians connected with recent attacks. (WP 3/6; IDF Radio, MA, QY 3/6 in FBIS 3/6)

Pres. Clinton attends memorial service at the Israeli embassy in Washington for the victims of the recent bombings in Israel. (WJW 2/14)

In a pre-dawn raid, IDF declares al-Fawwar refugee camp nr. Hebron a closed military zone, rounds up 1,000 men 16-64 yrs. old, arrests 30, seals homes of 2 suicide bombers. IDF also raids the Islamic College in Abu-Dis, arrests 14 students; arrests 10s of Palestinians in Hebron, Ramallah and holds them for questioning by Shin Bet. (MM 3/4, QY 3/4 in FBIS 3/4; IDF Radio, QY 3/4, QY 3/5 in FBIS 3/5; MM, NYT, WP 3/5)

Suicide bomber sets off explosion in Tel Aviv shopping district, killing 15, wounding 126. Bomber is identified as a man fr. Ramallah. A caller claiming to be fr. Hamas says Islamic Jihad is responsible. PM Peres vows to send IDF into self-rule areas to root out Hamas. U.S. Pres. Bill Clinton says he will allow the FBI, CIA to assist Peres in an antiterror campaign. (MM 3/4; IDF Radio, ITV, QPAR, VOP 3/4 in FBIS 3/4; QY 3/4 in FBIS 3/5; MM, NYT, WP, WT 3/5; WJW 3/7; PR 3/8 MEI 3/15)

After an emergency cabinet session, PM Peres announces formation of a special antiterror war headquarters which is authorized to "act everywhere, using all means, without any limitation on regions," incl. house demolitions, deportations, entry of IDF forces into zone B. (QY 3/4, MA 3/5 in FBIS 3/5)

Israel recalls its negotiating team fr. Washington. (IDF Radio, SARR 3/4 in FBIS 3/5; NYT 3/5; MM 3/5; IDF Radio 3/6 in FBIS 3/6; SATN 3/6 in FBIS 3/7) (see 3/3)

Hamas political leaders, Mahmud Zahhar, Muhammad Sham'ah hold a news conference; deny political wing is responsible for recent bombings; call on Qassam Brigades, Yahya Ayyash Units to halt all military actions. PA says it believes both 2/27 leaflets fr. Qassam Brigades are real; think the one denying responsibility came fr. cadres inside West Bank, Gaza and the one claiming responsibility came from cadres abroad. (MM 3/5; Der Spiegel, ITV 3/5 in FBIS 3/5; VOP 3/5 in FBIS 3/6; PR 3/8)

In Gaza City, Fatah rallies 1,000s of supporters, some carrying signs in Hebrew reading "yes to peace, no to violence" and "terrorism is our enemy," to protest against recent bombings. (MM 3/4; QY, VOP 3/4 in FBIS 3/4; QY 3/4 in FBIS 3/5; WP, WT 3/5)

In Tel Aviv, over 1,000 Israelis hold violent protest outside the DMin. to denounce the Oslo agmts.; 100 rally outside PM Peres's home; some 200 protest at the site of the Tel Aviv bombing; 100 rally in Jerusalem. Israeli police detain 10s for questioning. (HA 3/5 in FBIS 3/5)

In s. Lebanon, Hizballah mbrs. ambush an IDF convoy, killing 4 IDF soldiers, wounding 9. In 1st attack, IDF shoots back, killing 2 Hizballah mbrs. In a separate incident, a little-known Palestinian group, Islamic Revolutionary Army, ambushes a 2d convoy, wounding 1 IDF soldier. Peres sends 100s of troops fr. n. Israel into s. Lebanon to reinforce the border. (MM 3/5; VOP 3/5 in FBIS 3/5; IDF Radio 3/5 in FBIS 3/6; WT 3/6; MM 3/7)

Bus bomb explodes in downtown Jerusalem, killing 23 people (incl. 2 Americans), wounding 49. Second suicide bomb explodes at IDF hitchhiking post nr. Ashkelon, killing 2, wounding 29. Group calling itself The Yahya Ayyash Units, New Disciples claims responsibility in revenge for Ayyash's slaying 1/5 and to mark the 2d anniversary of the Hebron massacre. Israel seals West Bank, Gaza; halts all negotiations with the PA. (IDF Radio, JMCC, JTV, QPAR, QY, RJ, VOL, VOP 2/25, RJ, SARR, VOP 2/26 in FBIS 2/26; CSM, MM, NYT, WP, WT 2/26; NYT 2/27; WJW 2/29; MEI, PR 3/1; PR 3/8)

Following bombings, PA police immediately detain 120 Hamas, Islamic Jihad supporters across the West Bank, Gaza. Hamas's Izzeddin al-Qassam Brigades issues a leaflet saying it is not responsible for the bombings. (QY 2/25, IDF Radio, QY 2/26 in FBIS 2/26; IDF Radio, ITV 2/26 in FBIS 2/27; MM, NYT 2/27; QY 2/27 in FBIS 2/27; MM, NYT, WT 2/28)

In Ashkelon, an Israeli truck runs into a bus carrying Palestinian workers, injuring 20. (VOP 2/27 in FBIS 2/27)

Palestinian detonates suicide bomb on bus in Jerusalem, killing self, 1 American, 3 others, wounding 106. Hamas takes responsibility, saying primary aim is to bring down Rabin government. PM Rabin announces suspension of talks with PA, 3-day closure of West Bank, Gaza. At site of attack, Kach mbrs throw stones at Israeli Police M Shahal, Pres. Ezer Weizman. (MM 8/21; IDF Radio, ITV, QPAR, QY, SARR, VOP 8/21 in FBIS 8/21; VOP 8/21 in FBIS 8/22; CSM, NYT, WP, WT 8/22; NYT 8/23; WJW 8/24; JP 9/2)

Arafat appoints `Umar al-Khatib as PA amb. to Jordan, replacing Tayyib `Abd al-Rahim, who has been appointed sec. gen. of the Palestinian presidency. (VOP 8/22 in FBIS 8/25; PWR 8/26)

PA military court in Gaza sentences 1 PFLP mbr to 5 1/2 yrs, 2 other PFLP mbrs to 3 1/2 yrs in prison for plotting anti-Israeli attacks. (QY 8/22 in FBIS 8/22)

U.S. Asst. Secy. of State Robert Pelletreau, National Security Council (NSC) adviser Mark Parris make 1-day trip to Jordan for consultations with Jordanian officials on recent Iraqi defections; leaves for Saudi Arabia, Kuwait. PM Sharif Zaid Bin Shakir says U.S. is putting no pressure on Jordan to sever ties with Iraq. (Al-Dustur 8/19, Al-Ra`y in FBIS 8/21; RJ 8/18, AFP 8/22 in FBIS 8/22)

Israeli police continue to search Palestinian offices in East Jerusalem, searching for proof that they are official PA organs operating illegally in the city. 13 organization have been searched since 8/17. More checks are expected in coming days. (JP 8/18 in FBIS 8/18)

Arafat orders closure of Al-Quds newspaper for running a story in which his opponent Faruq al-Qaddumi criticized the PA. PSF men threaten editors. (QY 8/19 in FBIS 8/22; ITV, QY 8/20 in FBIS 8/23; MM 8/21, 8/29)

PA Preventative Security Force (PSF) mbrs detain 20 PFLP mbrs in Jericho, 3 DFLP mbrs in Gaza on suspicion of writing, circulating leaflets condemning the 8/11 agmt. (QY 8/18 in FBIS 8/18)

In Gaza City, PA police exchange gunfire with 3 Hamas mbrs (incl. Wa'il Nasir) wanted for planning suicide bombings; 8 Palestinians are injured. Angry Hamas supporters throw stones at police during the fight. After 5 hrs. the 3 surrender. IDF immediately lifts closure. (QY, VOP 8/18 in FBIS 8/21; WP 8/19; QY 8/19 in FBIS 8/22; MM 8/21; NYT, WP 8/22; NYT 8/25; JP 8/26) (see 8/17)

Nr. Tel Aviv, suicide bomber kills 5 Israelis, injures 33 in bus bombing, marking 1st attack inside Israel since 1/22. Hamas is suspected. IDF seals Gaza, West Bank. PM Rabin temporarily halts negotiations but vows they will continue; both sides suggest continuing talks outside Israel. (MM 8/25; IDF Radio, QPAR, QY, SARR, VOP 7/24 in FBIS 7/24; QY, VOP 7/24 in FBIS 7/25; CSM, FT, MM, NYT, WP, WT 7/25; NYT, WT 7/26; CSM, WJW 7/27; PR 7/28; MEI 8/4; JP 8/5) (see 7/12)

PA demands return of part of the Golan to Palestinian control in bid to improve their position in water negotiations with Israel; says Syria gave area to PLO in 1964. Unofficially, Syria disputes this, saying the Arab League gave the area to Syria after the 1948 war, sovereignty was affirmed under 1949 armistice agmt. (AFP 7/24 in FBIS 7/26; MM 7/25; VOP 7/26 in FBIS 7/27; AFP 7/26 in FBIS 7/28; MM 7/31)

At Erez checkpoint, PA Social Affairs M Intisar al-Wazir, Israeli Labor and Welfare M Ora Namir hold 1st talks on ways of cooperating on labor, social security, welfare; discuss economic importance of Palestinians working in Israel. (QY 7/24 in FBIS 7/25)

UN endorses 6-mo. extension of UN peacekeeping force in Lebanon but recommends 10% cut in size. (WT 7/26; RL 7/29 in FBIS 7/31)

Israeli Civil Administration gives eviction order to settlers occupying Givat Hatamar hill nr. Efrat. (QY 7/26 in FBIS 7/27)

Israel releases 3 Americans detained 7/22. (WP 7/25)

Suha Arafat gives birth to baby girl, Zahwa, in Paris. (NYT, WT 7/25; WSJ 7/26; MM 7/27; PR 7/28)

PA says preparations are underway to publish new weekly newspaper called Filastin al-Jadida to replace al-Aqsa. Majority of editors will be "those who have returned fr. abroad" since signing of DOP. (al-Istiqlal 5/19 in FBIS 5/24) (see 4/6)

In midnight trial, PA military court sentences 4 Palestinians to terms ranging 6 mos-1 yr. for planning suicide bombings, carrying unlicensed weapons. (AI Index 6/95)

Lebanese Pres. Hrawi accepts resignation of PM Hariri in dispute over early elections. (VOL 5/19 in FBIS 5/19; MM, WT 5/22) (see 2/23)

Syrian, Israeli ambs. resume talks on security issues in Washington. Mtg. is attended by Secy. of State Christopher but does not include military advisers. (QY 4/26 in FBIS 4/26; MM 4/27; WT 4/28)

PA, Israel resume talks on elections in Cairo, focus on allowing East Jerusalem Palestinians to vote, nature, structure, jurisdiction of projected legislative council. (MENA 4/25, MENA, VOP 4/26 in FBIS 4/26; WT 4/26; MENA, QY, VOP 4/26 in FBIS 4/27)

Preliminary donor mtg. opens in Paris. PA Planning M Shaath suggests donor states commit to timetable for meeting pledges for 1 yr., but several states (Shaath refuses to say which) oppose. (RMC 4/26 in FBIS 4/28)

In 1st such incident since signing of DOP, Palestinian arrested 4/22 on charges of being a sr. military leader in Hamas dies of injuries sustained during interrogation by Shin Bet. (MM 4/25; QY 4/25 in FBIS 4/25; CSM, NYT, WP 4/26; WP 5/4)

Jordan's amb. to Israel Muasher meets with Arafat advisor Husseini, frmr. PLO negotiator Hannan Ashrawi at Orient House in East Jerusalem, says Jordan, PA have resolved their differences over Jerusalem. (QY 4/25 in FBIS 4/25; QY 4/25 in FBIS 4/26; MM 4/26)

PA signs $65 m. contract with OPIC, Washington-based General Resources and Design Group to build Marriott hotel in Gaza. Hotel will have independent infrastructure (incl. water desalinization, communications, electricity). (MM 4/27)

Jordan's Dentists' Association bans mbrs. fr. treating Israelis, who have been coming to Jordan for cheaper medical attention since signing of peace treaty. Move seen as part of growing disenchantment with normalization with Israel. (MM 4/26, 5/2)

In retaliation for Yassin killing 3/31, Hizballah suicide bomber crashes explosive-rigged car into IDF, SLA convoy in s. Lebanon, wounding 9 IDF soldiers, 1 SLA mbr., 12 civilians. IDF reinforces troops in south, sweeps area, arrests 40 Lebanese. IAF overflies Beirut, is fired on by Lebanese Army again. (AFP, IDF Radio, QY, RL, VOL 4/25, RL 4/26 in FBIS 4/26; MM, NYT, WP, WT 4/26; VOL 4/26 in FBIS 4/27; JP 5/6; MEI 5/12)

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

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

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

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

PM Rabin, Arafat, in Spain to receive prize for international cooperation, discuss elections. (MM 11/24, 11/25; AFP 11/24 in FBIS 11/25)

Israeli military court in Jenin sentences to death Palestinian who plotted Hadera bus bombing 4/13. Judges say long prison terms have failed to prevent Islamist suicide bombers. Peres opposes sentence. (MM, NYT, WP, WT 11/25; IDF Radio, ITV, QY 11/25 in FBIS 11/25; QY 11/25 in FBIS 11/28; JP 12/3)

Israeli PM Rabin says he will tie Palestinian elections to revocation of parts of PLO charter. (MM 11/17; NYT 11/18)

PM Rabin arrives in U.S. to lobby Congress mbrs. for continuation of Israel's $3 b. annual foreign aid. Incoming head of U.S. Foreign Relations Comm., Sen. Jesse Helms, has suggested halting Israel's $1.2 b. economic aid, simultaneously forgiving Israel's debt. (MM, WT 11/16; IDF Radio 11/16 in FBIS 11/17; WT 11/17; WJW 11/24)

Jordan lifts economic boycott against Israel, drafts customs regulations based on Israeli-Jordanian agmt. (AFP 11/16 in FBIS 11/16)

Arafat holds PLO Exec. Comm. mtg. in Gaza (previously scheduled for 11/15) after 2 mbrs. arrive fr. abroad. The 8 mbrs. in attendance cannot form the quorum of 12 required by PLO charter. Those attending are: Arafat, PA Finance M Muhammad Zuhdi al-Nashashibi, PA Education M Yasir `Amr, PA Culture M Yasir `Abid Rabbu, PA Labor M Samir Ghawshah, Palestine Liberation Front leader Ali Ishaq, independents Juweid Sourani, Jamal Sourani. (PR 11/20)

UNRWA Commissioner-General Ilter Türkmen meets with Arafat in Gaza to discuss current conditions, developments in autonomous areas, project coordination. (UNRWA News 11/30)

Arafat orders release of 30 Islamic Jihad mbrs. arrested in crackdown following 11/11 suicide bombing. (QY 11/16 in FBIS 11/17)

Jane's Intelligence Review says Israel has 200+ nuclear weapons, incl. gravity bombs, missiles, shells, mines; is currently testing sea-launched cruise missile. (WT 11/17, 11/19)

Islamic Jihad suicide bomber on bicycle kills 3 IDF reservists, wounds 11 at Netzarim checkpoint, Gaza, in revenge for Abed assassination 11/2. (MM 11/11; AFP, IDF Radio, QY, VOP 11/11 in FBIS 11/14; NYT, WP, WT 11/12; JP 11/19)

Arafat condemns Islamic Jihad attack, orders roundup of Jihad mbrs. 1000's of Palestinians demonstrate in support of Islamic Jihad. (NYT, WP, WT 11/12)

Israel agrees to reconsider ban on import of produce fr. Gaza due to cholera outbreak. (VOP 11/11 in FBIS 11/16) (see 11/8)

Fateh mbr. Sami Sharaf is killed by unknown men as he leaves his home in Sidon, Lebanon. (RL 11/11 in FBIS 11/14)

Amal shells SLA positions in southern Lebanon, killing 3 SLA soldiers. (RL 11/11 in FBIS 11/14)

23 killed, 48 wounded when Hamas suicide bomber blows up bus in Tel Aviv. PM Rabin seals Gaza, West Bank indefinitely; vows hit suspects, their families; promises legislation permitting greater pressure in interrogations, wider use of collective punishment; suggests "national separation" of Palestinians, Israelis. (QY 10/18, 10/19 in FBIS 10/19; MM 10/19; QY 10/19 in FBIS 10/20; CSM, MM, NYT, WP, WT 10/20; MM 10/21; NYT 10/24; JP 10/29)

FM Peres says all negotiating tracks will continue despite bus attack, says Hamas's goal is to derail talks and there is "no way on earth" that will happen. (NYT 10/20)

Round of Israeli-Palestinian talks on elections concludes in Cairo, working papers exchanged, no decisions reported. (MENA 10/19 in FBIS 10/20)

U.S. officials report intense debate over whether Clinton should visit Syria on trip to Middle East 10/26. Clinton wants to see Pres. al-Asad to jump start peace talks, advisors say al-Asad has not offered enough concessions to warrant presidential visit. (WT 10/20)

IDF, SLA kill 7 Lebanese in shelling of Nabatiyeh hours after bus bombing. UN protests Israeli escalation of tensions, IDF use of tank shells packed with steel darts. (NYT 10/21; NYT, WP, WT 10/22; NYT 10/23)

Suicide bomb explodes in bus in Hadera, Israel, killing 6, including bomber, and wounding 28, including 2 Israeli Arabs and 18 IDF soldiers. Hamas claims responsibility. PM Rabin redeploys IDF to protect Israeli cities, rejects opposition calls to end talks with PLO. PLO Chmn. Arafat, speaking to Council of Europe in Strasbourg, condemns violence, faults Israeli collective punishments against Palestinians acontributing to violent atmosphere. U.S. State Dept. receives Arafat letter in which he "regretted and strongly rejected" violence against Israel. (MM 4/13; CSM, NYT, WP, WT 4/14; WP 4/17)

Maj. Gen. Ilan Biran named officer in command of IDF Central Command, including West Bank. Biran to take office 4/17, replacing Acting OC Central Command Maj. Gen. Dani Yatom, appointed temporarily to replace Maj. Gen. Nehemia Tamari, killed in helicopter crash 1/94. (MM 4/13)

IDF kills 2 Palestinians, 25 and 16, in Hebron after army jeep stoned. 4 other Palestinians wounded in separate clashes in o.t. IDF soldier, police officer wounded in Gaza by Palestinian gunman. (MM, WP, WT 3/8)

Hamas threatens suicide attacks on settlements of Qiryat Arba, Gush Qatif, Qadumin, Taqua, and Ariel (total population 24,000) if not evacuated by 3/15. Israeli Housing Min. reports 10 families have left QiIyat Arba. (NYT, WP, WT 3/8)

7 SLA mbrs. killed in 3 Hizballah bomb explosions in southern Lebanon. At least 2 SLA officers, 4 soldiers wounded. 2 other Lebanese kidnapped, killed by Hizballah. (NYT, WP, WT 3/8)

PLO Chmn. Arafat meets Israeli PM Rabin's advisers Jacques Neriah and Amos Gilad in Cairo to discuss resumption of peace talks, 1st such mtg. since Hebron massacre. (NYT, WP, WT 3/8)

57-mbr. Israeli-Arab delegation led by MK 'Abd al-Wahhab Darawsha arrives in Damascus in 1st visit by Israeli elected official. Group travels on Egyptian documents obtained in Cairo. Delegation met by Damascus Mayor Maj. Gen. Walid Hammamiya and PSF head Khalid al-Fahum. (MM 3/7)