The Palestine Chronology

In the West Bank, up to 70 Israeli settlers attacked Palestinian shepherds with stones and clubs in Sa‘ir, causing fractures and bruises to an elderly man and his nephew. Israeli forces traveling in a minibus with Palestinian license plates assassinated 3 Palestinians during a raid in Nablus. The forces blocked a vehicle carrying the 3 Palestinians and jumped out of the minibus, shooting dozens of bullets at their car. The al-Aqsa Martyrs Brigades said the 3 men, Ashraf al-Mubaslat, Adham Mabrukeh, and Mohammed al-Dakheel, were members or their organization. A 4th person in the car was arrested. Israel claimed that the men had “tried to open fire” but had not fired at the Israeli forces ambushing them. Israeli forces also sealed off the main entrance to ‘Azzun. Elsewhere, Israeli forces demolished a water cistern near Bayt Dajan. 7 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in Jalazun refugee camp, Bethlehem, Beit Umar, Kafr Qalil, and al-Yamun. (AJ, AP, CNN, HA, JP, MEE, MEMO, MEMO, PCHR, REU, TOI, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 2/8; MEMO, MEMO, WAFA 2/9; PCHR 2/10; HA, UNOCHA 2/11; HA 2/17; HA 2/18; UNOCHA 2/28)

Israeli forces fired a missile at Syria from a fighter jet flying over Lebanese air space. Syria then fired an anti-aircraft missile at the fighter jet, missing it. The anti-aircraft missile fell near Jenin, causing neither injuries nor damage. Israel subsequently attacked a Syrian radar facility and anti-aircraft battery, killing 1 Syrian soldier and wounding 5 others. (REU 2/8; AJ, AP, HA, JP, MEE, TOI 2/9; HA 2/11)

Turkish foreign minister Mevlüt Çavuşoğlu said that Turkey would not abandon its commitments to Palestine if the country normalizes its relations to Israel. Israeli president Isaac Herzog is expected to meet with Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdoğan in March. Foreign Minister Çavuşoğlu said, “[a]ny step we take with Israel regarding our relations, any normalisation, will not be at the expense of the Palestinian cause, like some other countries.” (REU 2/8; WAFA 2/10; ALM 2/11; MEE 2/15)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers attacked Palestinian herders near Khirbat Samra, forcing the Palestinian herders to leave the area. Israeli settlers also threw stones at Palestinian homes in Hebron, causing damage. 3 Palestinians were arrested, including 1 at a checkpoint near the Beit El settlement and 2 during a late-night raid in Anabta. In East Jerusalem, Israeli settlers toured the Haram al-Sharif compound. In Gaza, Israel carried out air strikes, hitting 2 sites near Khan Yunis and other sites near Beit Hanun and Beit Lahiya, causing damage. It was reported in Palestinian media that Palestinian militants had fired anti-aircraft missiles at Israeli helicopters conducting the missile strikes, but they had missed their target. In Israel, Israeli police violently dispersed Palestinians demonstrating in Umm al-Fahm against the administrative detention of a Palestinian who has been on hunger strike for 139 days; several Palestinians were assaulted and 4 were arrested. (HA 1/1; AJ, HA, HA, MEMO, MEMO, REU, TOI, TOI, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WP 1/2; PCHR 1/6)

Egyptian mediators called on Hamas and Israel to show restraint after 2 rockets were launched from Gaza, landing in the sea on 1/1, and Israel conducted air strikes in Gaza, causing damage shortly after. (AP, HA, IN, TOI 1/2)

A delegation of right-wing members of Knesset from Likud, Shas, and the Religious Zionist party visited the Homesh settlement outpost, calling for it to be legalized. (TOI 1/2)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces uprooted 50 olive trees in Wadi Fukin. Israeli forces also demolished 9 residential and 14 agricultural structures in Ibziq. Elsewhere, Israeli forces demolished a house under construction in Qalqas. Israeli force shot and injured 6 Palestinians using live ammunition during a late-night raid in Tubas. 13 Palestinians were arrested during raids in al-Am‘ari refugee camp, Beit Umar, Halhul, Yatta, Jenin, Ya‘bad, and Kaft Laqif; 1 Palestinian was injured by Israeli live ammunition during a protest against the raid in al-Am‘ari refugee camp. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces physically assaulted 2 Palestinians in Isawiya and Jabel Mukaber. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire at Palestinian farmers east of Dayr al-Balah; no injuries were reported. Off the coast of Gaza, Israeli naval forces opened fire at Palestinian fishermen within 3 nautical miles west of Gaza City; no injuries were reported. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 12/28; MEE, WAFA 12/29; PCHR 12/30)

The Jordanian Detainees Committee in Saudi Arabia said that a Saudi court had reduced the sentence of former Hamas official Mohammad al-Khodari from 15 years to 3 years in prison. Al-Khodari was 1 of some 60 Jordanian and Palestinian nationals to receive sentences by Saudi Arabia earlier this year for an affiliation with Hamas or other resistance groups. (MEMO 12/29)

PA president Mahmoud Abbas met with Israeli defense minister Benny Gantz at Gantz’s residence in Rosh Ha’ayin. The 2.5-hour-long meeting was attended by Israel’s coordinator of government activities in the territories Rassan Aliyan, PA civil affairs minister Hussein al-Sheikh, and head of PA security service Majed Faraj. Civil Affairs Minister al-Sheikh said the 2 sides spoke of a political horizon while Defense Minister Gantz tweeted that the meeting was about economic and civic measures and security coordination. An Israeli statement said Israel had agreed to register 6,000 Palestinians living in the West Bank and 3,500 living in Gaza, give the PA a $32-million advance on its tax income, and grant more business permits and VIP passes for the PA. Israeli and Palestinian officials said that President Abbas demanded more action against settler violence and the revocation of terror designations for 6 Palestinian rights organizations. It was President Abbas’s 1st meeting with an Israeli official in Israel since 2010. A Hamas spokesperson condemned Abbas’s visit, saying he was accommodating the occupation and “deepening Palestinian political divisions.” Islamic Jihad and the PFLP also condemned the meeting. (AP, HA, JP, TOI 12/28; ABC, AJ, ALM, AP, AX, F24, HILL, MEE, MEMO, MEMO, REU, TOI, WAFA, WAFA 12/29; ALM, HA, MEE, MEMO, MEMO 12/30; ALM, MEMO 12/31; TOI 1/1; TOI 1/2)

Israeli justice minister Gideon Sa‘ar said he wanted the Homesh settlement outpost legalized in response to the killing of 1 Israeli settler on 12/16. (HA 12/28)

In Syria, Israel conducted air strikes in Latakia, causing damage at the city’s port. Israeli sources claimed that Israeli missiles had hit Iranian munitions stored in containers. A Russian official said 4 missiles were fired from 2 Israeli F-16s, causing minor material damage. The Russian official also said that the Syrian air defense system was deactivated because a Russian plane was landing nearby. (AJ, AP, AP, GDN, HA, HA, NWK, REU 12/28; MEMO 12/29; AP, HA 12/30)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers threw stones and other objects at Palestinian vehicles near al-Mughayyir, causing 1 Palestinian driver to lose control of his car, injuring him and his son. The driver was flown to a hospital and was said to be in critical condition. Israeli settlers also threw stones at Palestinian vehicles near Duma, causing damage. Elsewhere, Israeli settlers threw stones and opened fire on Palestinians near Burqa; no injuries were reported. 6 Palestinians were arrested during raids in Jalazun refugee camp, Bayt Rima, Zeita, and Deir Sharaf; Israeli forces injured 3 Palestinians with rubber-coated bullets during the raid in Jalazun refugee camp. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrested the deputy director of Islamic Waqf, Sheikh Najeh Bakirat, at the Haram al-Sharif compound; Bakirat was later released on 11/28 on the condition that he does not visit the Haram al-Sharif compound for 20 days and the West Bank for 30 days. 2 others were arrested during late-night raids in Silwan and Jabal Mukaber. In Gaza, Israeli forces made incursions and leveled land. Off the coast of Gaza, Israeli naval forces opened fire at Palestinian fishermen; no injuries were reported. (MEMO, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 11/24; MEE, PCHR, WAFA 11/25; MEMO 11/29)

The Jerusalem district planning and building committee advanced plans for a new settlement in East Jerusalem at the abandoned Qalandia Airport, called Atarot airport by Israel. The plan entails 9,000 new settler units intended for ultra-Orthodox Jews. It was later reported that the Israeli government told the U.S. that it would not advance plans for the settlement and had explained that the committee’s work is independent of the government. (TOI, WAFA 11/24; AJ, AP, HA, MEE, MEMO 11/25; MEMO, WAFA 11/26; MEMO 11/27; ALM 11/29)

Israel said it would allow 500 Christians living in Gaza—about half of Gaza’s Christian population—to enter Jerusalem and the West Bank for Christmas celebrations. Additionally, 200 Christians in Gaza will be allowed to travel to Jordan for journeys abroad. (HA 11/25)

Israel transferred 1 Palestinian prisoner to a prison hospital in Ramle. The man has been on hunger strike for 47 days to protest his administrative detention. (MEMO 11/25)

The Israeli supreme court rejected an appeal from a Palestinian man whose 3 daughters and 1 niece were killed when Israeli tanks fired shells at his apartment in Gaza in 2009. The court held that the Israeli military is not liable for wartime actions, including killings of civilians. (AP, HA, MEMO 11/24)

According to Syrian media, Israeli air strikes killed 2 civilians and injured 1 civilian and 6 soldiers in the Homs region. According to Syrian officials, Israeli fighter jets fired the missiles from Lebanese air space. (AJ, AP, HA, JP, TOI 11/24)

Israel’s defense minister Benny Gantz met with his Moroccan counterpart Abdellatif Loudiyi in Morocco, signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for joint intelligence sharing, research, and military training. Morocco announced on 11/22 that its military had bought anti-drone systems from the Israeli company Skylock Dome. The PLO executive committee condemned the MoU, saying it contravenes agreements made at Arab League summits and the Area Peace initiative. The PFLP and Hamas also publicly condemned Morocco for inviting Defense Minister Gantz. (AJ, AP, MEMO 11/23; AJ, ALM, AP, AX, HA, MEMO, MEMO, TOI 11/24; MEMO 11/25; ALM, MEMO, WAFA 11/26; MEMO 11/27)

Israeli newspaper Calcalist reported that the Israeli government had limited the number of countries that can buy Israeli-made cyber technology, from 102 to 37. Among the countries said to be excluded are Mexico, Morocco, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. The report follows a decision by the U.S. to place bans on 2 Israeli spyware companies earlier this month. (HA 11/25; MEMO 11/26; MEMO 11/27)

Belgium announced that it will label Israeli settlement products by their settlement origin and not as made in Israel. The Israeli government condemned the decision and canceled planned meetings with Belgian officials. (HA, JP, WAFA 11/24; MEMO, MEMO, MEMO, WAFA 11/25)

Australia announced that it intends to add all Hezbollah entities as terrorist organization. Australia added Hezbollah’s External Security Organization as a terrorist organization in 2003. The declaration of intent follows the UK’s move to designate all of Hamas as a terrorist organization. (AJ, AP, HA, MEMO, TOI 11/24)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces demolished 15 tents, seized 3 vehicles, and arrested 1 Palestinian activist trying to prevent the forces from demolishing and seizing Palestinian property in Khirbat Humsa; Israeli forces demolished 25 structures in Khirbet Humsa on 2/1. The EU said it would send representatives to Khirbet Humsa on 2/4 to witness the destruction; more than 70 Palestinians were displaced during the mass demolitions on 2/1 and 2/3. Israeli forces also conducted military drills in the Masafer Yatta area, damaging crops and agricultural structures for the 2d day in a row. Elsewhere, Israeli forces demolished 1 house under construction in Anata and 11 vending stalls near Jenin. Israeli forces also delivered 1 demolition notice for a house in al-Khadir. 25 Palestinians were arrested during raids in and around Tuqu‘, al-Fawar refugee camp, Bayt Umar, Hizma, Salfit, Nablus, Sabastiyya, Tulkarm, and Qabatiya. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire at Palestinian farmers east of al-Shuka and arrested 1 Palestinian in the vicinity of the Gaza fence; no injuries were reported. Off the coast of Gaza, Israeli naval forces opened fire at Palestinian fishermen 3 nautical miles west of al-Sudaniyya; no injuries were reported. (REU, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 2/3; AP, HA, HA, NBC, PCHR, WAFA, WAFA 2/4; OCHA 2/5)

The Israeli high court of justice approved the punitive demolition of the family home of 1 Palestinian accused of killing an Israeli settler on 12/20/2020. The punitive demolition will displace 7 people: the accused Palestinian, his wife, 3 children, and 2 parents. (HA 2/3)

Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu appointed retired police major general Aharon Franco to lead efforts to combat violence in Palestinian communities in Israel and said he had allocated $30 million for the efforts. Franco has made degrading comments about Muslims in Israel in the past. The Israeli plan to combat violence in the Palestinian communities includes confiscating weapons and the construction of police and fire stations in several cities and towns. Ayman Odeh of Hadash (The Democratic Front for Peace and Equality) called the plan inadequate and an “election ploy.” (HA 2/4)

3 of the 4 parties in the Joint Arab List announced they will remain on the same slate for the March elections as the more conservative Ra’am (United Arab List) broke with the alliance. The 3 remaining parties in the Joint Arab List are Hadash, Ta’al (Arab Movement for Renewal), and Balad (National Democratic Alliance). Hadash leader Ayman Odeh will continue to lead the slate. The leader of Ra’am Mansour Abbas said his party had not decided on who it would support amidst rumors that the party will support Benjamin Netanyahu. (HA 2/3; AJ, AP 2/4; MEMO 2/5)

Israeli forces conducted air strikes in Syria near Quneitra, causing damage but no injuries. Israeli forces also flew a drone over Lebanon, which evaded an anti-aircraft missile fired at it. Hezbollah said it shot down an Israeli drone on 2/1. (AP, HA, HA 2/3; AJ, JP, JP 2/4)

In the West Bank, 3 Israeli activists were detained by Israeli soldiers near an Israeli military base in the Jordan Valley. The 3 activists were looking for a Palestinian shepherd arrested by Israeli soldiers earlier in the day. Israeli forces also arrested 21 Palestinians during late-night raids in and around Hizma, Hebron, Nablus, Urif, Salfit, Tulkarm, and Jenin. Israeli forces demolished a Palestinian-owned agricultural structure near Bethlehem. (WAFA 5/27; WAFA 5/28; HA 6/2)

PLO secretary general Saeb Erakat tweeted that China and Russia told him that the 2 countries would not attend the 1st stage of the U.S. peace summit in Bahrain in June. (HA 5/27)

The Greek Orthodox, Catholic, and Armenian churches said in a joint statement that they agreed to a multi-million-dollar project to restore the foundations and flooring of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in East Jerusalem. King Abdullah of Jordan and the Vatican pledged to help finance the restoration project. (HA 5/30)

Israel struck targets in Syria and Lebanon. An Israeli drone 1st struck a surveillance system in Lebanon. Later, Israel struck a target in Quneitra after an anti-aircraft missile was launched from Syria at an Israeli jet that was flying over Syrian airspace. 1 Syrian was killed and 2 others were injured. (AJ 5/27; HA 5/28)

The Israeli authorities return the body of a Palestinian killed in a confrontation with Israeli troops on 9/5. His family buries him in the Anata village cemetery nr. Bethlehem. Elsewhere in the West Bank, IDF troops assault a Palestinian at a mobile checkpoint nr. Jenin, and arrest 2 Palestinians during late-night raids nr. Hebron. (MNA 9/13; WAFA 9/14; PCHR 9/22)

For the 4th time in 2 weeks, errant mortar fire from Syria lands in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights, causing no damage. The Israeli Air Force (IAF) launches retaliatory air strikes on Syrian govt. sites nr. the border, causing an unknown amount of damage. During the Israeli sortie, the Syrian army fires 2 surface-to-air missiles at the IAF aircraft. The Syrian army claims that it downs a jet and a drone; the IDF denies that any of its aircraft were shot down. Later in the day, another round of 3 mortar shells from Syria falls in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights, and again, the IDF responds, launching air strikes on Syrian govt. sites nr. the border. No damage or injuries are reported. (HA, JP, NYT, TOI, YA 9/13)

The PA and Israel reach an agreement on repayment of the Palestinians’ outstanding debts to the Israel Electric Corporation (IEC), which reportedly total almost NIS 2 b. (approx. $350 m.). The IEC reduced the flow of power to several West Bank cities, starting in 5/2016, as punishment for the unpaid debts. (TOI 9/13; JP, WAFA, YA 9/14)

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu arrives in Russia for talks with Pres. Vladimir Putin about the peace process and regional developments, including Syria. Netanyahu asks Putin not to supply S-300 anti-aircraft missiles to Bashar al-Asad’s regime. (HA 5/14)

The International Criminal Court’s prosecutor Fatou Bensouda says she will open a preliminary examination into Israel’s 2010 attack on the Gaza-bound Mavi Marmara aid flotilla, following a referral from Comoros, to which one of the vessels raided was registered. (REU 5/14)

Thousands of Palestinians hold Nakba Day rallies in cities across the West Bank; the IDF violently disperses protesters in al-Khader, causing no serious injuries. The IDF also patrols in al- ‘Arub r.c. nr. Hebron, injuring 1 Palestinian in clashes. Jewish settlers uproot around 150 trees south of Nablus and also set fire to Palestinian agricultural lands in Bayt Furik village nr. Nablus. There is also a ‘‘price tag’’ attack in in Umm al-Qutuf village in Wadi Ara, a Palestinian village inside the Green Line, in which suspected Jewish extremists vandalize a mosque and 3 vehicles. (JTA, MNA, WAFA 5/14; PCHR 5/16)

Fatah and Hamas representatives hold reconciliation talks in Cairo. Hamas official Moussa Abu Marzouq says the sides have pledged to complete formation of a long-anticipated unity government within 3 months (see QU 168 for details). (JP, MNA 5/14)

Egypt’s upper house holds a special session to discuss recent clashes (5/7) in al-Aqsa Mosque and demands the immediate expulsion of Israeli ambassador Ya’akov Amitai in protest, but the government takes no immediate action. (ToI 5/14)

PA pres. Abbas’s legal adviser Hassan al-Ouri says that the PA’s financial crisis may prevent it from joining several international and UN institutions. (MNA 1/4)

In the West Bank, the IDF patrols in 1 village nr. Ramallah in the morning and in al-‘Arub r.c. and Ithna r.c. (both nr. Hebron), 5 villages nr. Ramallah, 3 villages nr. Hebron, and 1 village nr. Tulkarm at night; conducts house searches and arrest raids in Bayt Sahur and Aida r.c. in Bethlehem at night. Israeli soldiers attack weekly nonviolent demonstrations held by Palestinians, Israelis, and internationals in 3 villages nr. Ramallah (Bil‘in, Ni‘lin, al-Nabi Salih), 1 village nr. Bethlehem (al-Ma‘sara), and 1 village nr. Qalqilya (Kafr Qaddum). There are no serious injuries, except in Bil‘in, where 2 Palestinians are wounded with live ammunition. Jewish settlers enter al-Manshiya village nr. Bethlehem, vandalize a car, and write ‘‘price-tag’’ graffiti. (PCHR 1/10)

Hundreds of thousands of Fatah supporters rally in Gaza City to mark the 48th anniversary of the founding of the movement, the 1st such show of support for Fatah in Gaza since 2007. Pres. Abbas tells the crowds in a televised address that Palestinian national unity is coming soon. Hamas’s acting PM Ismail Haniyeh calls Abbas to congratulate him on the occasion of the anniversary. Meanwhile, a report in Ha’Aretz says that IDF-PA security coordination is improving again, and the PA is renewing arrests of Hamas and Islamic Jihad suspects. (HA, MNA, REU 1/4)

Christian Science Monitor reports that Palestinian support for military operations against Israel has registered its most significant jump in 10 years (50.9%, up from 29.3% in 1/2011), spurred by Operation Pillar of Defense, ongoing Israeli settlement expansion, and frustration over a peace process that has been essentially deadlocked for more than 4 yrs. (CSM 4/1)

Egyptian security forces seize antitank and anti-aircraft missiles in the Sinai Peninsula, weaponry thought by Egyptian security sources to be bound for the Gaza Strip via the tunnels. (MNA 1/4)

In Syria, fighting between pro- and anti-government groups resumes in Yarmuk r.c. nr. Damascus, ending a short-lived cease-fire (see 12/21) and prompting another wave of Palestinian refugees. (AKH 1/4)

Recently retired Shin Bet chief Yuval Diskin says in an interview with Israeli media that PM Netanyahu acted irresponsibly regarding Iran’s nuclear program and tried to convince him and colleagues to approve an ‘‘illegal’’ decision to attack Iran. (AP 1/4)

The IDF allows 16 West Bank Palestinians deported to Gaza to return to their homes; increases the number of Palestinian workers permitted into Israel by one-third to 1,500; shoots, critically wounds a 13-yr.-old Palestinian boy nr. Gaza’s Netzarim settlement. A Jewish settler fr. Negohot attacks a Palestinian shepherd near the settlement; IDF troops intervene, arrest the settler. (VOI, VOP 2/18 in WNC 2/19; JP 2/20)

The IDF reportedly has begun removing 100s of bedouin families fr. shanty towns around its Negev air base with the aim of creating a 5,000-meter buffer zone out of concern that bedouin could acquire anti-aircraft missiles to shoot down Israeli air force planes. 10,000s of bedouin live in 10s of unrecognized villages in the area of the air base, some shanties slated for removal have stood for 22 yrs. (JP 2/18 in WNC 2/19)

The IDF surrounds, fires on, then shells a car workshop where Islamic Jihad Hebron leader Muhammad Sidr (whom Israel attempted to assassinate in 12/01) is staying, killing him in an apparent assassination; demolishes the Nablus home of the 2d 8/12 suicide bomber. The PSF raids Shati r.c. in Gaza in search of Islamic Jihad mbrs. suspected of detonating a bomb outside PSF offices on 8/13; the raid sparks an exchange of gunfire that leaves 7 Palestinians, including bystanders, wounded; 1 senior Islamic Jihad mbr. is arrested. Islamic Jihad accuses the PA of complicity in Sidr’s assassination. (BBC, HA, MM, PCHR 8/14; NYT, WP, WT 8/15)

Mofaz meets with Dahlan, reiterates Israel’s proposal to turn over control of Jericho, Qalqilya; says it will accelerate the transfer of another city if the PA accepts. (HA, MM 8/15) (see 7/30)

Israeli warplanes break the sound barrier over Lebanon’s Biqa‘ Valley. Hizballah, after not responding for several days to the flights, fires antiaircraft missiles at them, but directs the missiles northward, to ensure that no shrapnel falls in Israeli territory. (HA 8/15)

King Abdallah of Jordan replaces PM Tarawnah with fmr. dep. PM `Abd al-Rauf al-Rawabda, Chief of the Royal Court Jawad Anani with fmr. PM `Abd al-Karim Kabariti. Rawabda, who is strongly disliked by the opposition and Jordanian Palestinians, immediately announces new 25 mbr. cabinet, which retains all but 7 mbrs. of the outgoing cabinet. Abdallah urges new cabinet to consolidate ties with Israel, work for more open government, freer press. Analysts interpret changes as marking further side-lining of Prince Hassan, increased focus on internal affairs. (AFP, MENA, RJ 3/4 in WNC 3/5; MM, NYT, WP, WT 3/5; JT 3/7 in WNC 3/8; al-Dustur 3/7, al-Bayan 3/8 in WNC 3/9; MM 3/9, 3/10; al-Bilad 3/10 in WNC 3/11; JP, MEI 3/12; al-Watan al-Arabi 3/12 in WNC 3/22; JTV 4/3 in WNC 4/5)

Lebanon's fmr. Energy M Shahih Barsoumian is arrested on suspicion of corruption involving hundreds of millions of dollars in fuel imports, the 1st major public figure to fall in the government's continuing antigraft crackdown. (NYT 3/5, 3/6) (see 1/7)

At the UAE's request, the Gulf Cooperation Council holds an emergency mtg. to discuss Iranian military maneuvers nr. 3 disputed islands (see 2/27); issues statement denounces Iran's actions, urging mediation to resolve dispute. (MM 3/5)

After lull in attacks following disruption of oil exports 2/28, British jets strike surface-to-air missile sites in s. Iraq. (NYT 3/5, 3/7)

King Hussein undergoes bone marrow transplant at Mayo Clinic. (MM 2/2; JTV 2/2 in WNC 2/4; NYT, WP, WT 2/3)

On a television talk show, PM Netanyahu compares Labor campaign rival Barak to Hitler. The audience, stacked with Likud supporters sent by the PM's Office, applauds Netanyahu's statements; insults, spits on Labor party mbrs. in the audience. (MM 2/2; MM, WT 2/3; MA 2/3 in WNC 2/4; MM 2/4; JP 2/12)

U.S. planes destroy 2 of 3 new antiship missile sites in s. Iraq. Pentagon says that U.S., British jets have attacked more antiaircraft, missile batteries than they did during the 12/16-19 operation. (NYT, WP 2/3)

PM Netanyahu decides not to fire Amb. to the U.S. Ben-Elissar. Instead he appoints his long-time personal friend Leonard Davis, fmr. head of AIPAC's Jerusalem office, to be the embassy's no. 2 man. Davis, a dual citizen who has never held a diplomatic position or worked with the FMin., will give up his U.S. citizenship. (WT 5/30) (see 5/19)

Jordanian PM `Abd al-Salam al-Majali announces plans to open a Human Rights Unit under his office. (RJ 5/29 in WNC 5/31) (see 11/30/96)

Al-Azhar head, Shaykh Muhammad Sayyid Tantawi sanctions the death penalty against those who sell Palestinian land to Jews. (VIRI 5/29 in WNC 5/31)

U.S. intelligence says that Egypt hopes to buy advanced SAM missiles fr. Russia, which would give Egypt the best tactical anti-ballistic-missile capability in the world, very good antiaircraft and anti-cruise-missile defenses. Congress is concerned Egypt will use its U.S. military aid to purchase the SAMs, which would be illegal. 90% of U.S. aid is tied to purchases of U.S. goods. (WT 5/30)

Brother of the Hamas suicide bomber who carried out the 3/21 attack, Omar Ghanimat, who has been detained without charge since the bombing, appeals to the Israeli High Court to stop his interrogation, charging that Shin Bet agents have tortured him. The High Court rejects the appeal, orders the Justice Min. to investigate. (WP 5/30; LAW 6/1)

UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) complains that 7 Hizballah gunmen halted and damaged a UN vehicle in s. Lebanon, performed mock executions on the 2 UNIFIL soldiers. In a separate incident nr. Tyre, 5 Hizballah gunmen stop, interrogate 2 UNIFIL soldiers driving in a marked UN truck. It is the 1st time in 10 yrs. that Hizballah has harassed UNIFIL soldiers. (AFP, RL 5/30 in WNC 6/2)

Egyptian police arrest Israeli citizen Azzam Azzam, a Druze working with a joint venture project in Cairo, on suspicion of spying for Israel. An Egyptian, whom Azzam allegedly recruited for Mossad, is also detained. Israel calls the arrest a provocation. (MM 11/12; MEI 11/22)

U.S. jet enforcing Iraq's southern no-fly zone fires missile at Iraqi mobile surface-to-air missile battery after mistakenly believing the battery's radar system had locked onto his aircraft. (WP, WT 11/3; CSM, WP 11/4)

Egypt says it will host economic summit in Cairo in 11/12-14 as planned. (MM, WP 9/13; al-`Arabi 9/16 in WNC 9/27) (see 8/22)

Acting on a tip (possibly fr. the U.S.), Hong Kong customs impounds Syria-bound, N. Korean cargo shipment marked "finished goods," found to contain heavy artillery (incl. Howitzers, Russian made M-46 field guns). It is legal to ship arms through Hong Kong but illegal to falsely declare goods. (Kong Standard, South China Morning Post 917, 9/18 in WNC 11/12)

Iraq again fires surface-to-air missiles at U.S. warplanes in the expanded s. no-fly zone, causing no damage. U.S. announces it will position stealth bombers at airfields in Kuwait. Turkey agrees to allow 2,500 Iraqi oppositionist transit through Turkey as part of U.S. plan to evacuate its allies fr. the Kurdish enclave, provided none were connected with the CIA, PKK; U.S. says if those sponsored by the CIA can escape fr. Iraq, it will "certainly look sympathetically" on their appeals for asylum. U.S. dispatches 2d aircraft carrier to the region. (MM 9/12; NYT, WP, WSJ 9/13; WP 9/17, 9/18; al-Ahram 9/19 in WNC 9/30; MEI 9/20) (see 9/11)

Hatzofe reports that changes to Oslo II maps were agreed to and signed in 1/96 but have been kept secret. The 5 changes were only of several dozen meters. 3 favored the Israelis: moving the access road for Qedar settlement and the forests west of Ma'ale Adumim fr. zone B to C; moving the Ashkenazi Jewish cemetery of Hebron fr. zone A to C; moving the Ramallah and Bir Nabala oxidation pools, which incl. parts of the land designated for the Psagot-Kokhav Yi'aqov bypass road, fr. zone A to C. 2 changes favored the PA: moving a strip of land n. of Janin fr. zone C to A; expanding the zone B area of Abu-Dis e. to the Israeli municipal boundary of Jerusalem. (Hatzofe 9/12 in WNC 9/16)

In an article in Ma'ariv Youth, Israeli rock singer Aviv Geffen advises his fans to leave Israel in protest over Netanyahu's election as PM, says Israelis should be embarrassed to be represented by the right-wing government. In response, mbrs. of the Israeli broadcast authority call for a ban on his music, politicians fr. Pres. Weizman on down condemn him, 100s of parents cancel their children's subscriptions to the magazine. (WP 9/12; JP 9/21)

Israeli court convicts Yigal and Hagai Amir, Dror Adani on charges of conspiracy to kill PM Rabin. (NYT, WSJ 9/12; JP 9/21)

Iraq fires surface-to-air missiles at U.S. warplanes patrolling the expanded s. no-fly zone, causing no damage. U.S. begins moving stealth bombers into the region for a potential strike against fortified command bunkers, military facilities. Pres. Clinton vows to take military action protect troops if necessary; says U.S. is prepared to airlift 2,000 Kurds, Iraqis who worked for the U.S./CIA into Turkey, but Turkey is reluctant to accept them (see 9/9). (MM 9/11; NYT, WP, WSJ, WT 9/12; Yeni Gunaydin [Istanbul] 9/12 in WNC 9/17; MM 9/13; MEI 9/20) (see 9/10)

Arab League Secy. Gen. Ismat `Abd al-Majid, Turkish amb. to Cairo discuss Turkey's plan for a "security zone" in n. Iraq. The amb. stresses Turkey has no designs on Iraqi territory. `Abd al-Majid emphasizes Arab states' desire to present unified rejection to all attempts to divide Iraq. (RE 9/11 in WNC 9/13) (see 9/10)

PLO official Nabil Shaath, visiting Jericho, postpones trip to Jerusalem's Haram al-Sharif in move interpreted as showing PLO reluctance to provoke Israeli right on Jerusalem issue.  (MM 6/20; NYT 6/21)

Jerusalem Waqf authorities stop Israeli bulldozers digging tunnel nr. Haram al-Sharif.  (TJT 6/24)

IAF airstrikes on Jabal al-Raffih in southern Lebanon wound 2 Hizballah guerrillas.  Raid follows Hizballah firing on 2 SLA positions. Incident is 22d IAF airstrike in Lebanon in year. Later, Hizballah ambush of IDF patrol in "security zone" kills 3 Israeli soldiers, wounds 3, according to Lebanese security sources.  IDF sources say only 1 killed.  Artillery and rocket duels erupt btwn. SLA, Hizballah.  (MM 6/20; CSM, WP, WSJ, WT 6/21; JP 7/2)

Syria deliberates on supplying Hizballah with SA-14 and SA-16 antiaircraft missiles in reaction to increased Israeli air raids, according to "diplomatic sources."  (WT 6/21)

Jordan's King Hussein, Secy of State Christopher meet in Washington.  Hussein says he hopes for high-level mtg. with Israel.  (MM 6/21; CSM, WP 6/22)

Social/Economic/Political

Arab World: Washington Post reports Yasir Arafat accused Syrian and Libyan intelligence services of instigating wave of terrorism that swept Mediterranean in recent months [WP 1/5; MG 1/6]. Libya officially denies involvement in 12/27/85 Vienna, Rome airport attacks [PI 1/5].

Military Action

Arab World: Israeli troops, SLA militia comb 3 S. Lebanese villages north of security zone, firing rocket-propelled grenades and searching for guerrillas [PI 1/5]. Israeli troops are reported to have moved 30 tanks into S. Lebanon security zone [BG 1/5]. Syria is reported to have withdrawn SAM-6, SAM-8 anti-aircraft missile batteries into Syrian territory from Lebanon's Biqa' Valley [NYT, WP 1/5].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli troops curfew Balata refugee camp, conduct house-to-house searches, arrest dozens of Palestinians [JP 11/24; FJ 11/29]. Army stops group of 50 would-be settlers who attempt to squat in Jericho [JP 11/24].

Arab World: Israeli forces patrolling in S. Lebanon security zone kill 2 armed Palestinian gunmen; 2 Israelis are wounded [JP 11/24]. President Mubarak states Egypt is urging PLO to reconsider position on UN resolutions 242 and 338 to ease way for intl. M. E. peace conference; comments follow 3 hours of talks with U.S. Asst. Sec. of State Richard Murphy [JP 11/24].

Military Action

Arab World: Syria begins placing longer-range SAM-2 anti-aircraft missiles along Syrian border with Lebanon, withdrawing shorter-range SAM-6 and SAM-8 missiles from Lebanese territory [JP 12/18; MEP 12/20; NYT 12/26]. Egyptian airliner carrying nearly 100 passengers is hijacked over the Mediterranean by Arabs identifying themselves as "Egypt's Revolution." After landing in Malta, several bodies are thrown out of the plane [WP, BG, TS 11/24].

Other Countries: Israel and Argentina pledge to increase volume of bilateral trade at conclusion of visit to Argentina by Trade Min. Ariel Sharon [JP 11/24].

Social/Economic/Political

Arab World: Yasir Arafat meets for 4 hours in Baghdad with Vladimir Poliakov, undersecretary of Soviet Foreign Ministry [WP 11/21].

Other Countries: Jerusalem Post reports a Sri Lankan deputy minister recently confirmed for the firstime that Israel and Sri Lanka have bilateral trade relations, denied Israelis advise Sri Lankan police [JP 11/20].

Military Action

Arab World: Syria moves SAM-6 and SAM-8 anti-aircraft missile batteries into Lebanon [JP 12/18; MEP 12/20].

Military Action:

IDF hands over checkpoint at Monteverde, east of Beirut, to Lebanese Army; anti-aircraft missile fired at IDF transport plane preparing for takeoff near Damour.

Casualties:

IDF disperses women demonstrating near Sidon for release of detainees at Ansar.

Political Responses:

Israel/ Occupied Territories: Soldiers and police fire bullets, teargas, to break up demonstration near Jerusalem's Al-Aqsa mosque, 40 arrested; Arens says cycle of violence on West Bank is initiated generally by some elements of the Arab population, refuses requests from 40 leading West Bank and Gaza Palestinians for permission to travel to Tunis to convey support for Arafat; Shlomo Argov, Israeli ambassador to UK whose attempted assassination in 1982 was pretext for invasion, says the war was unjustified.

Palestinians/ Lebanese: Fateh rebels refuse Arafat's offer to withdraw PLO loyalist forces from Beqaa to Tripoli; Arafat says crisis in PLO serves Israel, has reduced attacks against IDF from one or two a day to 2 or 3 in past 15 days.

US and Other Countries: Shultz reports to Reagan on Middle East tour.

Casualties:

Armed Phalangists enter Ain el-Hilweh refugee camp in Sidon, force adults and schoolchildren to make blood donations.

Political Responses:

Israel/ Occupied Territories: Foreign Ministry officials meet Habib to discuss clarifications of agreement; after funeral of Netivot resident shot in Gaza, 5 bakery workers from Gaza beaten by Jews in Netivot; Beit Sahour mayor meets head of Israeli Civil Administration, breaking national consensus of non-cooperation; senior police officer says that in West Bank there is a see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil attitude among Jews about Jewish vigilantism; Deputy Attorney General Y. Karp, head of a Justice Ministry committee investigating Jewish vigilantism, reportedly resigned last month because no action taken in year on recommendations for stricter law enforcement, including criticism of intervention by politicians on behalf of arrested suspects and the dependence of the police on the Military Government; Foreign Minister Shamir on tour of West Bank settlement says the Green Line has been erased in political consciousness and on the ground.

Palestinians/ Lebanese: Lebanese Foreign Minister Salem meets President Assad in Damascus; Lebanese Cabinet discusses agreement, gives no formal endorsement of it; Lebanese Parliament extends Cabinet's emergency powers until end of September, extends its own life by 18 months to end of 1984; Haddad calls on IDF to disarm Phalange and Guardians of the Cedars militias operating in his area to carry out death sentences against Palestinians; 34th tripartite session of withdrawal talks takes place at Netanya to work out final wording of agreement.

Arab Governments: Syrian Air Force and Soviet advisers reportedly complete sophisticated 230-mile long anti-aircraft missile defense system stretching from Latakia in north to Jordanian border in south; Jordanian minister of health says he cannot fully accept results of WHO inquiry into West Bank illnesses, even if it is psychological pressure this is a poison of the mind.

US and Other Countries: US Defense Secretary Weinberger meets Saudi Defense Minister Abdel Aziz in Paris, reportedly asks Saudi assistance to persuade Syria to withdraw its forces from Lebanon, US considering direct talks with Syria on troop withdrawal; State Dept. letters show US knew last September that 300-600 armed PLO fighters remained in Beirut in violation of August cease-fire agreement.

UN: WHO assembly votes 65 to 17, with 25 abstentions, for direct supervison of health services in Israeli occupied territories, expresses great concern over epidemic.

Military Action:

Syrians fire two anti-aircraft missiles at IAF jets overflying Bekaa, both miss, Israeli military command accuses Syria of cease-fire violations; plans to deploy 1,800 Lebanese Army soldiers in East Beirut delayed by tensions in Chouf area; new fighting flares before IDF reimposes curfew; fighting in Aley erupts day after Druze militiamen ambush Lebanese Army soldiers; artillery battles break out after gunmen fire on car in village of Kaifoun; gunbattles continue in village of Souk el-Gharb; IDF jeep comes under fire in village of Bchamoun; explosion in West Beirut flat kills 2, wounds 8; Sidon placed under tight IDF control following 2 attacks on IDF soldiers in past week, allegedly by newly-formed Lebanese National Patriotic Front.

Casualties:

One Lebanese Army soldier killed, 3 wounded in ambush; some Palestinians released from Answar have been rearrested in past few days; 6 Israeli soldiers captured by PLO are interviewed by ICRC team in camp near Barr Elias in eastern Bekaa.

Political Responses:

Israel/ Occupied Territories: Shamir warns that Syrian missile attacks may delay withdrawal of foreign forces; Meridor says Israel willing to make political commitment to welfare of Palestinian refugees in upcoming negotiations with Lebanese, will seek guarantee that Lebanese will not tear down houses built by refugees who lost their homes in the fighting; Mapam leader Shemtov says PLO willingness to dialogue with Israel should not be ignored; Israeli Cabinet says Israel will agree to negotiate Taba issue only if Egypt resumes talks on all outstanding issues between two countries and ends diplomatic freeze; Israeli Ambassador to US Moshe Arens proposes 6-month moratorium on new settlements, but Begin rejects request and Arens is heavily criticized in Jerusalem; Drori testifies that he did not know of hundreds of civilian deaths until Saturday afternoon, yet feared mass civilian killings by Phalange, may have been told of Eitan decision to let Phalange enter camps only at time Phalange learned of it, and says Phalange asked IDF for tractors, were given one with IDF markings removed.

Palestinians/ Lebanese: Lebanese Information Minister Roger Shikhani warns press of need for "wisdom" in deciding what they print to avoid imposition of censorship; Lebanese Cabinet endorses plan to use existing military liaison committee for future talks, expanded to include at least one civilian legal expert and US representatives; PLO's Abu Jihad says PLO will not withdraw until IDF does first and Lebanese Government signs written guarantee of safety of civilians, says US guarantee no longer reliable after massacre, PLO uninterested in Draper negotiations and will deal with Lebanese separately, would like to retain PLO military presence in Lebanon, perhaps through Lebanese PLA unit; PLO official Khalid al-Hassan, in New York, says establishment of Palestinian state a prerequisite to PLO acceptance of US peace plan.

Arab Governments: Egypt asks Israel to delay opening of luxury hotel at Taba.

Military Action:

Fierce fighting between LNM militia and Lebanese Army along Green Line as final French contingent prepares to leave (during 4-hour battle French ammunition truck on way to port is hit); machine-gun fire, rocket-propelled grenades exchanged in Ras Nabeh area near recently reopened Sodeco crossing point; IDF jets destroy Syrian SAM-9 anti-aircraft missile site in Central Lebanon near Dahr al-Baydar as tension continues along Beirut-Damascus highway (third air strike in four days); guerrillas again attack IDF troops using rocket-propelled grenades in Bekaa; IDF background paper claims 98 Syrian/Palestinian cease-fire violations since July 23.

Casualties:

Fighting burns some buildings; 1 Lebanese Army soldier killed, 13 wounded, 2 civilians killed, several in LNM militia killed and wounded.

Political Responses:

Israel/ Occupied Territories: Israeli Cabinet warns Syria against violating cease-fire or war of attrition, says it will seek to prevent Arafat meeting with Pope; roads extended to new Jewish settlements near Nablus; 3 Najah University professors ordered deported after refusing to sign anti-PLO pledge.

Palestinians/ Lebanese: Arafat, in Algeria, reviews PLO fighters, plans to tour PLO camps in Syria, Tunisia, South Yemen, and Sudan; Prime Minister Wazzan goes on TV to urge backing for Army; Gemayel issues call for Christians and Muslims to work together.

US and Other Countries: Shultz, addressing United Jewish Appeal (UJA) fundraiser for Israel, urges Israel to remain "open" to Reagan peace initiative, reiterates US promise to not pressure Israel economically or militarily; Senator Arlen Specter (R.-Pa) visits Begin in Jerusalem after talks with Gemayel and Sarkis in Lebanon.

Military Action:

IDF jets attack, destroy Syrian anti-aircraft missile battery in Dahr el-Baydar east of Bhamdoun; PLO leader Hawatmeh visits PLO forces in Bekaa; Gemayel visits multinational troops in Beirut; 70 more weapons dumps confiscated by Lebanese Army in past two days.

Casualties: IDF says less than 3,000 people were killed in battle for Beirut (80 percent PLO guerrillas or other armed groups); French soldiers check for mines in old market of Beirut.

Political Responses:

Israel/ Occupied Territories: Israeli parliament rejects Reagan proposals (Begin says US plan would repartition Israel, Shamir says US has disturbed peace process, Knesset votes 50-36 to endorse Begin's opposition to plan); Knesset debates conduct of war (Labor Party leader Bar-Lev says invasion was first war not essential to peace or Israeli security); Peace Now holds protest opposing war in front of Knesset.

Palestinians/ Lebanese: PLO demands Israel supply list of its prisoners in return for allowing ICRC access to 8 IDF soldiers captured. Phalange surprised at and resents Sharon declaration that Israel will impose own special security arrangements on Lebanon if peace treaty not forthcoming; East Beirut celebrates exit of PLO forces; Lebanese deny plans for Gemayel to try Haddad for collaborating with Israelis; Gemayel advisers tell 4 Israeli Knesset members visiting Beirut that no early treaty with Israel possible (treaty raises fears of Arab boycott).

Arab Governments: Arab peace plan nears readiness at Fez talks (Syria pullout agreed if IDF forces withdrawn).

US and Other Countries: US expresses concern over IDF raid; Reagan and advisers meet over plans to seek removal of all foreign troops from Lebanon, announce Habib will return to Lebanon for Gemayel swearingin and that US Marines will be withdrawn beginning in 2 days.

Military Action:

IDF jets attack in Bekaa (claims 3 Syrian SAM-8 batteries south of Chtaura, 1 F-4 destroyed; Syria claims IDF loses 24 tanks, 4 rocket launchers, admits it loses 16 tanks); jets also attack Palestinian targets in Beirut after mock air raids, reconnaissance flights (Fakhani, Bir Hassan, Ramlet el-Baida, Sabra, airport areas hit, 1 jet reportedly hit); shelling of airport, Burj al-Barajneh, Sabra, Shatila, as IDF warships shell Burj al-Chatila, as IDF wat ships shell Burj al-Barajneh and Ouazi (2 IDF armored cars, 1 tank, 1 mortar position reportedly knocked out) .

Casualties:

Four Syrian soldiers killed, 6 wounded in IDF raids; WAFA reports 51 wounded, killed in today's raids; Lebanese officials report 11 IDF soldiers killed in Wednesday's guerrilla attack in Sidon; PLO reports two IDF soldiers killed, four wounded last night near Sidon as halftrack hits landmine; 12 IDF casualties reported near Aley; IDF troops enter Karantina power station in East Beirut, turn off electricity to West Beirut at 11 PM (results in loss of all water to West Beirut as water pumps are halted; cutoff interrupts Bashir Gemayel TV address in which he nominates himself as Lebanese president); Sidon authorities begin bulldozing remains of Ain el-Hilweh (IDF disclaims any responsibility for plight of camps' refugees, refuses to allow tents to be brought in).

Political Responses:

Israel/ Occupied Territories: Cabinet gives diplomatic process more time, is reportedly split over all-out attack on Beirut; Minister Yitzhak Moda'i says Israel rejects linking PLO-IDF withdrawals, accepts linking only Syrian-IDF withdrawals.

Palestinians/ Lebanese: Bashir Gemayel nominates self as Lebanese president; PLO opposes withdrawal until safeguards arranged for 650,000 Palestinian civilians in Lebanon, acceptable host countries found, and Palestinian right to self-determination affirmed by US or UN; two-hour battle between Phalange and Druze flares in Aley (two killed; IDF separates forces); Sarkis and Cabinet hold emergency meeting to discuss IDF undermining of government authority in southern Lebanon using Haddad militia (Sarkis publicly condemns IDF occupation of southern Lebanon for first time); Wazzan says Lebanese government rejects proposals for interimpartial withdrawal of PLO from all of Lebanon.

Arab Governments: Syria threatens major response, with new weapons, if IDF continues attacks.

US and Other Countries: Habib meets Saudi leaders, then flies to Cairo; Habib's consultant status with Bechtel Corporation initiates call by Senator Pressler (R-SD) for him to resign (rejected strongly by White House); US AID says $850,000 in aid for American University Hospital to be flown to Cyprus for shipment.

UN: UN delays Security Council meeting sought by France, Egypt to discuss Lebanese situation.

Military Action:

Over 90 Israeli jets attack and destroy Syrian SAM (surface-to-air missile) batteries in Bekaa valley; 16-22 Syrian MIGs reportedly shot down; Syria reports 19 Israeli jets shot down (air battle took place as Habib was delivering Israeli message in Damascus); Is-raelis capture Damour (say they will return it to Christian residents and help rebuild), establish bridgehead at Khalde, 4 miles south of Beirut; street fighting continues in Sidon as 2 more Israeli armored columns and infantry unit sent to consolidate control; Israeli naval vessels land troops between airport and Beirut, shell PLO-held areas of city; Israeli air-craft drop leaflets urging Beirut residents to stay off streets, mark houses with white cloth; Israeli troops in Golan boosted.

Palestinian resistance continues in Sidon; Israeli column halted near Beiteddine, with heavy losses.

Syria reports village 3 miles west of Damascus bombed (denied by Israelis); Syrians charge Israelis bombed, strafed fleeing civilians along Beirut-Damascus highway; Syria moves 16,000 more troops into Lebanon, beats back Israeli attempts to take highway.

United Nations command protests Israeli use of white phosphorous incendiary artillery in attacks on Tyre; UN food convoys barred from Tyre until June 8.

Lebanese Army gives scant resistance to Israeli advance; Lebanese army barracks in Sidon, Beiteddine and Hammana heavily bombarded by Israelis.

Casualties:

Thousands of Beirut residents flee to Bekaa valley; UN observers say Lebanese and Palestinian refugees urgently need water and food, that 41,000 Tyre residents gathered on beaches were left without food and shelter for 2 days; after Tyre residents allowed to return to homes, about 7,000 from refugee camps remain on beaches; Rashidiyeh refu-gee camp virtually destroyed; International Committee of the Red Cross reports "heavy damage" in Tyre, Sidon and that 1,200 Sidon residents urgently need medical attention. Israel reports 31 dead, 144 wounded.

Political Responses:

Israel/Occupied Territories: Israeli government blames Syria for provoking Israeli raid; still bars foreign journalists from coastal areas of southern Lebanon; Israel warns Jor-dan to stay out of fighting.

Palestinians/ Lebanese: Arafat urgently appeals to Arab countries to end the "massacre of the Palestinian people in Lebanon"; Palestinian group, reportedly followers of anti-PLO leader Abu Nidal, claim role in Argov shooting in statement delivered to Beirut AP office; Lebanese radio says Israel occupies 25 percent of Lebanese territory; Lebanese government meets, debates proposal to send Lebanese Army into West Beirut; Christian and Muslim groups urge support for Sarkis and Franjieh offers to put militia under Sarkis; Gemayel urges national unity government.

Arab Governments: Iraq announces it will withdraw from all Iranian territory in a week, redirect its efforts against Israel; Syria begins pulling troops out of Beirut back into Bekaa; Jordan's Prime Minister announces Jordan will allow transit facilities for any wishing to travel to Lebanon to fight Israel; Syria reportedly prepares to mobilize reserves; Kuwait, UAE and Qatar issue statements denouncing invasion.

US and Other Countries: US vetoes UN reso-lution condemning Israel as "unbalanced"; Reagan announces he will seek $25 m. in emergency aid for Lebanon from Congress; EEC foreign ministers condemn Israeli invasion; USSR plans to send medical supplies to Lebanon in a few days; Canada, France, Netherlands and the UK urge their citizens to leave West Beirut.