The Palestine Chronology

In Jerusalem, Acting PM Peres says he will not call early elections. (CSM, NYT, WP, WT 11/8)

Shin Bet gives cabinet a preliminary report on security guarding PM Rabin at the peace rally; says there were not enough bodyguards, guards failed to form a phalanx around Rabin, intelligence had inadequate information on Jewish extremists. (WP, WT 11/8; MM, NYT, WT 11/9)

In television, press interviews, Leah Rabin, Rabin's widow, accuses Netanyahu, Likud of inciting violence; blames them for Rabin's death. (MM, NYT, WP, WT 11/8)

Justice M Liba'i says the government is writing legislation to crack down on militants, tightening restrictions against inciting violence and perhaps banning demonstrations outside elected officials' homes. (IDF Radio, YA 11/7 in FBIS 11/8; WP 11/8)

Israeli police search Kfar Tapuah, a settlement nr. Nablus which has a large Kahane Chai following, looking for links btwn. the Amir brothers and the banned movements Kahane Chai, Kach. 4 rightist nationalists who praised Rabin's assassination are arrested, questioned, but released for lack of evidence. (MM 11/7; IDF Radio, QY 11/7 in FBIS 11/8; NYT, WP, WT 11/8)

Eyal, Kach leaders go underground, fearing their arrest by the IDF. Eyal head Avishai Raviv admits Yigal Amir was a mbr. of his organization. (NYT, WP 11/8) (see 11/4)

IDF eases closure, allowing Gaza laborers over 35 yrs old, West Bank laborers over 30 yrs old into Israel. (IDF Radio 11/7 in FBIS 11/7; NYT, WT 11/8) (see 11/4)

World leaders, incl. Egyptian Pres. Mubarak, Jordanian King Hussein, Omani FM Bin-`Alawi, Qatari Culture M Hamad Bin `Abd al-Aziz al-Kuwari, attend PM Rabin's funeral. Arafat--who Israel officials stressed was "not welcome" at the funeral, held in Jerusalem--does not go. (CSM, MM, NYT, WP, WT 11/6; FBIS supplement, MM, NYT, WP, WT 11/7; CSM 11/8)

After Rabin's funeral, Pres. Clinton holds separate mtgs about continuing the peace process with Mubarak, King Hussein, Acting PM Peres, Pres. Weizman. Peres holds private mgts with King Hussein, Pres. Mubarak, Omani FM Bin-`Alawi to discuss bilateral relations, peace process. (IDF Radio, QY 11/6, RJ, QY 11/7 in FBIS 11/7; WP 11/7; MM 11/8; HA 11/8 in FBIS 11/9)

After repeated requests fr. the PA, the Arab League permanent representatives hold a discussion on the congressional decision to move the U.S. embassy in Israel to Jerusalem; consider convening mtg. of all Arab FMs. (MENA 11/6 in FBIS 11/8) (see 10/26)

Amman economic summit opens. (JT, JTV, MENA, QY, VOA 10/29 in FBIS 10/30; NYT 10/30; WP 11/1; MEI 11/3)

In Amman, Secy. of State Christopher meets with PM Rabin, FM Peres to discuss Syrian-Israeli negotiations. (SARR 10/30 in FBIS 10/31)

In Amman, King Hussein meets with Secy. of State Christopher, Russian FM Kozyrev, Israeli PM Rabin, FM Peres. (JTV 10/29 in FBIS 10/30; JTV 10/30 in FBIS 10/31)

Islamic Jihad selects new head--Ramadan Abdallah Shallah, 40-yr.-old religious speaker, who received economics and political science degrees in England, U.S. In Gaza, Hebron Palestinians protest Shiqaqi assassination. (QPAR, QY 10/29 in FBIS 10/30; NYT, WP, WT 10/30; MM, WT 10/31; CSM, WP, WT 11/1; WJW 11/2)

Israeli navy fires on 5 fishing boats operating off the coast of Tyre, Lebanon; abduct 3 fishermen fr. 1 boat, interrogates them for several hours. (RL, VOL 10/29 in FBIS 10/30) (see 10/10)

In Gaza, Arafat, EU delegation, World Bank VP Yenne Obolensky sign agmt. extending $300 m. in EU soft loans to the PA. Despite official Israeli protests, the delegation then meets U.S. Consul Gen. Abington, Arafat adviser Faisal Husseini at Orient House. (VOP 10/27, JP 10/31 in FBIS 10/31)

In Jerusalem, FM Peres receives EU delegation, discusses peace process, aid to the PA, EU assistance with Palestinian elections, Syrian-Israeli talks. (QY 10/27 in FBIS 11/2)

Russian Dep. FM Posuvalyuk arrives in Damascus for 2-day visit, discusses peace process with FM Shara`, criticizes U.S. embassy legislation. (SANA 10/27, SATN 10/28 in FBIS 10/31)

Nr. Sidon, Lebanon, a bomb goes off in the car of UNRWA employee, causing material damage but no injury. (VOL 10/27 in FBIS 10/27)

At the opening of the Knesset's winter session, FM Peres submits a political statement outlining the Rabin government's position on the Oslo II agmt., the peace process. MKs approve it by vote of 50-40, with 1 abstention. (ITV 10/23 in FBIS 10/24; MM 10/24)

Arafat shows up at Lincoln Center concert. Mayor Giuliani has him ejected fr. the concert hall, saying "When we're having . . . a celebration, I would rather not have someone who was implicated in the murder of Americans." State Dept., frmr. New York City mayors Edward Koch, David Dinkins criticize Giuliani for not showing Arafat the proper respect. (MM 10/25; MM, WP 10/25; NYT, WP 10/26; MEI 11/3) (see 10/20)

2 ships carrying 610 Palestinians expelled fr. Libya, which had been stranded off the coast of Cyprus, are allowed to dock in Latakia, Syria. (WP 10/24; JP 10/28) (see 10/18)

In Washington, Arafat, PM Rabin sign the Oslo II agmt. Syria, Lebanon send no representatives. (BT, CSM, MM, WJW 9/28; VOP 9/28 in FBIS 9/28; CSM, FT, MM, NYT, WP, WT 9/29; WJW 10/5; JP 10/7)

Israeli FM Peres, Jordan's King Hussein, Arafat confirm that they have been discussing establishment of a confederation btwn. Jordan, self-rule areas. (IL 10/2)

Israel, EU initial cooperation and commerce agmt. (IL 10/2)

PM Rabin meets with representatives of American Jewish groups, warns them that lobbying against Israeli government policies would cause a serious rift in Israel's relations with the American Jewish community. (QY 9/29, 9/30 in FBIS 10/2; NYT 9/30; WJW 10/5; JP 10/7)

Israel closes borders with West Bank, Gaza until 10/1 to curb any Palestinian attacks on Israel in protest over Oslo II signing. In Hebron, 1,000 Jewish settlers protest the accord. (CSM, NYT 9/29)

Although minor points regarding jurisdiction, prisoners remain outstanding, Arafat, FM Peres announce they have reached a final interim agmt., plan to initial it in Taba 9/24, sign agmt. and annexes in Washington 9/28. (MENA, VOP 9/23 in FBIS 9/25; NYT, WP, WT 9/24)

In Hebron, 4 Palestinians are injured when IDF soldiers break up demonstrations against the Oslo II accord. 3 Palestinians are injured during similar demonstrations in Nablus. (QY 9/23 in FBIS 9/24)

U.S. special envoy Dennis Ross (on personal visit to the region) discusses PA-Israeli negotiations with Arafat in Gaza, then with FM Peres in Jerusalem. (QY, VOP 8/29 in FBIS 8/30; CSM 8/30; PWR 9/4)

In Damascus, Pres. Asad, FM Shara` receive U.S. Senators Arlen Spector, Hank Brown; discusses Syrian-U.S. relations, peace process. (SARR 8/29 in FBIS 8/30; MM 8/30; MM 9/5)

U.S. State Dept. says it warned Syria (8/11) to do "everything in its power" to curb threats against the U.S. and its citizens by Syrian-based Palestinian/Islamic rejectionist groups; U.S. reserves the right to respond to attacks "in any way it deems necessary." (MM, WP 8/30; WJW 9/7)

PA says that, in past 2 days, based on Israeli information, it has arrested over 30 Hamas mbrs, foiling 2 planned attacks on Israeli, PA targets. (ITV, QPAR, QY 8/29 in FBIS 8/30; NYT 8/30; CSM 8/31)

In Cairo, Israel, PA sign pact, giving PA control over 8 spheres of West Bank administration. (VOP 8/20 in FBIS 8/21; MM 8/21; QY 8/20 in FBIS 8/22; MENA, VOP 8/27 in FBIS 8/28; WP, WT 8/28; CSM, MM 8/29; JP 9/2; WJW 9/7)

Jordan's King Hussein meets with Israeli PM Rabin, FM Peres in Aqaba to discuss Iraqi defections. (IL 8/28; Al-Aswaq 8/28 in FBIS 8/28)

In Damascus, German Economics M Spranger meets with Pres. Asad. (SANA, SATN 8/27 in FBIS 8/28)

Israel demands extradition of Dudin, Khatib in connection with 12/24/94 Jerusalem bombing, vows to keep closure on Jericho (begun 8/22) in place until pair is turned over. For 1st time, IDF stops journalists fr. entering Jericho while under closure. In continuing crackdown in the West Bank, IDF arrests 12 alleged Hamas mbrs, says recent arrests have prevented 2 bombings, a plan to kidnap IDF soldiers. (QY 8/27, JP 8/28 in FBIS 8/28; MM, NYT, WP, WT 8/28) (see 8/25)

Israeli police release Fatah's Ghunaym. (Al-Quds 8/28 in FBIS 8/30) (see 8/21)

IDF lifts closure on West Bank, but says closure on Jericho will remain in place through 8/30. (QY, VOP 8/27 in FBIS 8/28)

Arafat, Peres continue talks in Taba. PA, Israel agree on timetable for Israeli withdrawal fr. parts of the West Bank after PA agrees to allow IDF until 2/97 to complete redeployment. IDF would withdraw fr. some towns 6 mos after elections, give up control of roads 1 yr. after elections (which would ideally be held in 12/95). (MM 8/8; VOP 8/8 in FBIS 8/8; MENA, QY 8/8 in FBIS 8/9; CSM, NYT, WT 8/9; WT 8/10)

In more than 20 Israeli cities, settlers block roads during rush hour, clash with Israeli police in their 1st protests inside the Green Line against expanded Palestinian self-rule. 130 are arrested; primary organizer Moshe Reiglin is fined IS10,000 ($3,300). (MM 8/8; QY 8/8 in IL 8/8; QY 8/8 in FBIS 8/9; MM, NYT, WT 8/9; WT 8/10; PR 8/18)

In the West Bank, settlers set up encampments nr. Alfe Menashe, Hebron, Elon Moreh, Ofra, al-Nabi Samu'il bringing to 15 the number of new sites occupied by right-wing Jews in recent days. (QY 8/8, 8/9 in FBIS 8/9)

PM Rabin holds follow-up mtg. settler leaders (see 8/4), refuses their request to see maps of the planned IDF redeployment fr. the West Bank. Leaders vow to continue antigovernment protests. (MM 8/8; QY 8/8 in IL 8/8; Davar 8/8 in FBIS 8/8; QY 8/8 in FBIS 8/9; MM 8/10)

5 dissident PFLP-GC mbrs hold reconciliation talks with Arafat; ask him to allow 100 PFLP-GC mbrs. to return to Gaza, hold mtg. to oust Ahmad Jibril as leader. Arafat says he will consider the request. (AFP 8/8 in FBIS 8/9)

U.S. formally arrests Hamas's Abu Marzuq, begins extradition proceedings that could result in his being deported to Israel on charges of terrorism, conspiracy to commit murder. (NYT, WP 8/9; WT 8/10) (see 7/31)

FM Peres says 7/4 agmt. calls for phased Israeli pullout fr. West Bank over 2 yrs, starting with 4 towns (Jenin, Nablus, Qalqiliyya, Tulkarm), adding Ramallah, Bethlehem after bypass roads are built; elections to be held end of 1995. PA official says initial pullout will begin 4 wks after agmt. is signed, end 25 days before elections. IDF would temporarily pullout of Bethlehem, Hebron, Ramallah during voting. PLO will amend charter. Peres warns 7/25 date for signing agmt. might be delayed several wks. Israel's Savir, PA's Qurai` meet in Jerusalem to compose subcomms. to address individual issues. (MM 7/5; HA, VOP 7/5 in FBIS 7/6; WP, WSJ, WT 7/6; PR 7/9) (see 6/27)

In Cairo, technical comm. on Palestinian refugees opens 2d mtg. (MENA 7/4 in FBIS 7/5)=

Arafat, UN Sec. Gen. Butros Butros Ghali meet in Jericho to discuss international presence, joint Israeli-PA patrols in West Bank during interim phase, possibility of Arafat speaking at UN's 50th anniversary conference. (VOP 7/6 in FBIS 7/7)

Addressing the Israeli-American Chamber of Commerce in Tel Aviv, U.S. Amb. to Israel Indyk demands Israel abolish import barriers that discriminate against U.S. imports; notes that, while the U.S. gives Israel $3 b./yr. in loans, grants, $10 b./5 yrs in loan guarantees as incentive to by U.S. products, Israel last yr. ran $1-b. trade surplus with the U.S. and a $7.5-b. trade deficit with the EU. (MM, WSJ 7/6; MM 8/2)

In protest over 7/4 agmt., Jewish settlers begin work on new 600 unit West Bank settlement 6 miles w. of Ramallah. (WT 7/6)

100s of women march in Ramallah, demanding Israel free Palestinian prisoners. Clashes erupt with Israeli border police. (WP 7/6)

Israeli Dep. FM Beilin arrives in Russia for talks aimed at dissuading Russia fr. concluding nuclear arms deal with Iran. (QY 7/5 in FBIS 7/6)

Arafat, FM Peres meet for 8 hrs. at Erez in unsuccessful last-minute attempt to reach an agmt. before 7/1 deadline passes. Peres rejects PA demand for control of security in villages, refugee camps nr. Jewish settlements, joint patrols on roads to settlements; says Israel must maintain "overriding responsibility" for all security. Arafat calls for redeployment over 2 mos fr. all major West Bank towns, incl. Hebron, to be completed 3 wks before elections. (WP, WT, NYT 7/2; IDF Radio, ITV, QY 7/2 in FBIS 7/3; CSM, MM, NYT, WT 7/3; al-Quds 7/3 in FBIS 7/5; MEI 7/7; JP 7/8)

In several towns throughout the West Bank, IDF clashes with Palestinians demonstrating in support of prisoners; 150 Palestinians are injured, 1 killed. Israel says it is willing to quickly release over 1,000 prisoners but is arguing with the PA over precise numbers, timing, conditions for release. (ITV 7/1 in FBIS 7/3; NYT, WP 7/2)

Hamas accuses the PA of shaving off the hair, beards of 3 leaders (Mahmud Zahhar, Ahmad Bahar, Salama Safadi) who have been detained since 6/25 explosion. (NYT 7/2, 7/10)

In Cairo, PA, Israel open 3 days of talks on transfer of authority, focus on electricity, communications, water, public works. PA says it will accept phased Israeli withdrawal fr. West Bank within framework of agmt. that includes specific timetable. (MENA 6/20 in FBIS 6/21)

Multilateral Working Group on Water meets in Amman, then  convenes joint mtg. with working group on environment. Syrian, Lebanese representatives reportedly meet with Israeli delegate behind scenes. (IGPO 6/19; QY 6/30 in FBIS 7/5; MBC 7/15 in FBIS 7/17)

Under terms of 10/26 Jordan-Israel treaty, water pipeline fr. Lake Tiberias to Israel begins operating. (RJ 6/20 in FBIS 6/28; NYT 6/21)

PM Rabin, FM Peres, Environment M Sarid, IDF officers tour West Bank n. of Jerusalem to view plans for redeployment of IDF troops outside Palestinian towns. (QY 6/20 in FBIS 6/21)

Israeli FMin. deems PA's 1st "active" year "reasonably successful," Arafat "a dominant and indispensable figure" who successfully handled his opposition. (MA 6/20 in FBIS 6/20)

East Jerusalem Municipal Council, formally reactivated by Arafat 6/12, holds 1st mgt. (HA 6/26 in FBIS 6/27) (see 5/30)

House approves antiterrorism bill similar to that passed in the Senate 6/7 by vote of 23-12. Differences between the two must be worked out in committee. (WT 6/21) (see 8/4)

256 mbrs. of Congress send letter to Secy. of State Christopher in support of moving U.S. embassy fr. Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. Letter is a companion to the one sent by 93 senators 3/95. Christopher sends letter to Dole dissuading him fr. voting for bill. (Near East Report 7/3)

In Damascus, Egyptian FM Musa meets with Syrian FM al-Shara`, transmits message fr. Pres. Mubarak to Pres. al-Asad on bilateral coordination, consultation on peace process, regional issues. (SARR 5/2 in  FBIS 5/2; RE 3/2 in FBIS 3/3)

In Gaza, Arafat meets with EU delegation, U.S. Consul Gen. Edward Abington to discuss outcomes of Paris donor's mtg. 4/27-28. (VOP 5/3 in FBIS 5/4)

PA invites Canada, EC, Egypt, Japan, Jordan, Norway, Russia to participate in 1,000-mbr. elections observer force. Arafat opens Palestine Central Elections Comm. headquarters in Gaza. (ITV 3/2 in FBIS 3/3; JP 5/13)

PA says direct phone line btwn. Arafat, Rabin has been set up so they can make rapid decision as problems arise, esp. concerning IDF, police, border issues. (YA 5/3 in FBIS 5/4)

U.S. Amb. to the UN Albright meets with Israeli PM Rabin, FM Peres, PA Local Government M Erakat, PA Information M `Abid Rabbu; discusses settlements, new U.S. trade ban on Iran, terrorism. Rabin gives support for U.S. dual containment policy; heads to Jordan for mtg. on peace process with Crown Prince Hassan. (WT 5/2; JP, QY 5/2 in FBIS 5/2; JTV, RJ, VOP 5/2 in FBIS 5/3; MM 5/3)

PA military court gives 1st death sentence to Palestinian police officer for killing 2d officer, gives him 14 days to appeal. (ITV 3/2 in FBIS 3/3; NYT 5/3; WT 5/15) (see 4/24)

Masked Israeli border policemen raid Makassed hospital in East Jerusalem in search of "Palestinian activists"; prevent ambulance workers fr. admitting patients. (WT 5/3)

Israel closes o.t. for 4 days, over Remembrance Day holiday. (QY 4/30 in FBIS 5/1)

U.S. special coordinator Ross flies to Cairo to brief Pres. Mubarak on talks with PM Rabin, Pres. al-Asad, then returns to Tel Aviv for scheduled mtg. with PM Rabin, which Rabin cancels. Israeli Amb. Rabinovitch says Syria's insistence on "equality" is preventing progress in talks. (ITV, MENA 4/9 in FBIS 4/10; MM 4/10; WJW 4/13)

In 2 separate incidents nr. Jewish settlements in Gaza,  suicide bombers drive explosive-laden cars into bus, military jeep, killing 8 (incl. 1 American), wounding 46 (incl. 3 Americans). Islamic Jihad takes credit for 1st bombing, Hamas for 2d. Both are apparently in response to 4/2 explosion for which both groups blame Israel. PM Rabin credits closure with preventing attacks fr. occurring inside Israel, says he will not let attacks halt negotiations. Pres. Weizman calls for halt to talks.(IDF Radio, QPAR, QY, SARR, SATN, VOP 4/9 in FBIS 4/10; CSM, MM, NYT, WP, WT 4/10; CSM, WP 4/11; MEI, WJW 4/14)

Secy. of State Christopher sends Arafat message that he must take stronger measures to ensure those attacking Israelis are found, shut down. (MM 4/10)

IDF says 2 main Gaza roads will be permanently closed to Palestinians following bombings. Closing the roads--used by 1000s of Palestinians, 10s of Israelis daily--is meant to curb "terrorists' . . . freedom of action." (IDF Radio, HA 4/10 in FBIS 4/10; MM 4/11)

PM Rabin's settlement review comm. announces mtg. to consider 6,000 new housing units around Jerusalem, quickly calls it off when FM Peres, Communications M Shulamit Aloni, Justice M David Libai protest expansion. (NYT 4/10; WJW 4/13)

Hizballah tanks shell SLA patrol nr. Marja'uyun in s. Lebanon, killing 5 SLA mbrs. (WP 4/10)

PM Rabin tells cabinet he will not suspend talks with Syria despite Hizballah attacks 3/31, only a diplomatic solution to the conflict is possible, Israel will not attempt a military solution; says Syria has promised Secy. of State Christopher it will restrain Hizballah. (MM 4/3)

Jordanian FM al-Kabariti, Syrian Amb. Mu`allim meet in Washington to discuss Syria's stand in talks with Israel. Mu`allim leaves for Syria to prepare for Ross visit. (RJ 4/2 in FBIS 4/4)

Russian FM Kozyrev meets with PM Rabin, Pres. Weizman, FM Peres in Jerusalem, discusses Israeli-Lebanese border tensions, NPT, Iran, peace process. (QY 4/2, HA 4/3 in FBIS 4/3)

Arafat advisor Husseini meets with Russian Dep. FM Viktor Posuvalyuk at Orient House to discuss Israeli obstacles to implementing DOP. (VOP 4/2 in FBIS 4/3)

PM Rabin approves 2,000 more work permits for Palestinian workers to enter Israel, bringing total to 27,000. (ITV 4/1 in FBIS 4/4)

Kamal Kahil, sr. mbr. of Izz al-Din al-Qassam Brigades and no. 15 on Israel's most-wanted list, 7 others die, 30 are wounded in explosion in Gaza allegedly triggered when Kahil, 1 other Hamas mbr. accidently detonate bomb they are making. Hamas accuses Israel of assassinating Kahil, plotting to turn public opinion against Hamas. (QY, RMC, VOP 4/2 in FBIS 4/3; MM, WP, WT 4/3; AFP, ITV, QPAR, QY, VOP 4/3 in FBIS 4/4; MM, NYT 4/4; NYT 4/7; VOP 4/8 in FBIS 4/10; MEI, 4/14; JP 4/15)

PA says it is holding 3 Palestinian policemen after frmr. collaborator is found dead in Gaza. (AFP 4/2 in FBIS 4/4) (see 4/1)

Hizballah, Amal hold mtg. in s. Lebanon to coordinate efforts against Israel. (RL 4/2 in FBIS 4/3)

PA-Israeli delegations meet in Jericho to discuss next official round of negotiations on elections, redeployment scheduled for 3/28-29 in Cairo. Parties say sides are still divided but talks are reaching a "practical stage," esp. on makeup of observer teams. (IDF Radio, VOP 3/26 in FBIS 3/27; MM 3/29)

Israeli FM Peres tells press "several" Jewish settlements in Gaza, West Bank will have to be removed as Israeli authority is replaced by Palestinian self-rule. Statement provokes outrage of Likud, settler groups. (Sunday Times of London 3/26 in FBIS 3/28)

3 alleged Hamas mbrs. cross into Gaza fr. Egypt nr. Rafah checkpoint. IDF captures 1; 2 others escape into PA territory. (QY 3/26, 3/27 in FBIS 3/27)

FM Peres, Arafat hold positive mtg. at Erez; agree to open safe passages immediately, halt land confiscation and financing expansion of existing settlements, speed process at border crossings, increase number of Palestinian workers in Israel to 21,000, discuss releasing prisoners, hold regular mtgs. to exchange security information; announce agmt. to try to reach consensus on elections, Israeli withdrawal by 7/1. (MM 3/9; VOP 3/9 in FBIS 3/9; QY, VOP 3/9, VOP 3/10 in FBIS 3/10; MM, NYT, WP, WT 3/10; VOP 3/10 in FBIS 3/13; WJW 3/16; MEI 3/17; JP 3/18; WT 3/19)

Secy. of State Christopher holds friendly mtg. with Pres. Mubarak in Cairo but fails to reach compromise on NPT issue, then heads to Israel, meets with PM Rabin, FM Peres to discuss Syrian track. Rabin gives Christopher "serious proposal" to hand Syrian Pres. al-Asad, reportedly offering to withdraw fr. all of Golan in stages if Syria begins normalizing relations. Rabin also blames Syria, Egypt for urging Gulf states to slow normalization. Christopher then meets with Likud leader Netanyahu to asses opposition's stance. (MM 3/9; MENA 3/9 in FBIS 3/9; IDF Radio, ITV 3/9, QY 3/10 in FBIS 3/10; FT, MM, NYT, WP, WT 3/10; ITV, QY 3/10, HA, RMC 3/12 in FBIS 3/13; MA 3/12 in FBIS 3/14; HA 3/15 in FBIS 3/15; JP 3/18; MEI 3/31; NYT 4/1; MEI 4/14)

Task Force for Economic Development in the Middle East meets in Washington. U.S. presents proposal for regional bank with $5 b. base capital to do project lending only. EU gives counterproposal for "financial intermediation organization" without its own capital base to put together private sector deals, financing. 30 countries, organizations attend, incl. Egypt, Jordan, PA, Saudi Arabia, excl. Lebanon, Syria. (MM 3/10, 4/27)

FM Peres says Israel has lifted its naval blockade on s. Lebanon in honor of Secy. of State Christopher's visit, as a good will gesture. (HA, RL 3/10 in FBIS 3/10; VOL 3/10 in FBIS 3/13; NYT, WP 3/11; MEI 3/17; MEI 3/31)

PM Rabin, King Hussein meet in Aqaba, discuss difficulties on Syrian track. Rabin tells king he asked Secy. of State Christopher to forgive Jordan's debt. (JTV 3/9, QY, RJ 3/10 in FBIS 3/10; MM 3/10)

At opening of 3-day private conference on peace in the Mediterranean in Paris, Arafat strongly criticizes Israel for obstructing negotiations, closure. FM Shimon Peres says Israel appreciates recent PA crackdown on opposition. Pair meet after mtg. to discuss Arafat's comments, Jenin 1st idea. (WT 2/19; QY, VOP 2/19, AFP, RMC 2/20 in FBIS 2/21; NYT 2/20; CSM 2/21; MEI 3/3)

In Stockholm, PA Planning M Nabil Shaath, Israeli Dep. FM Yossi Beilin, Israeli academics and Oslo agmt. architects Ron Pundik, Yair Hirschfeld hold talks on "flower exports" fr. Gaza. Mtg. is rumored to be attempt to jump-start PA-Israeli talks. (Svenska Dagbladet 2/21 in FBIS 2/24)

PM Rabin gives television address on bombings. (MM 1/23; ITV 1/23 in FBIS 1/24; MM, WT 1/24; MEI 2/3)

Clinton sends personal letter to PM Rabin condemning 1/22 bombings, saying he was "personally sickened" by Palestinians that supported it. (IDF Radio 1/23 in FBIS 1/24; NYT 1/25)

Jordan, Palestinians agree on draft accord to settle difference over Jerusalem before Arafat's visit to Amman 1/25. Palestinians will recognize Jordanian custody of Muslim holy cites; Jordan will support Palestinian sovereignty over Jerusalem. Also agree on postal services, telecommunications, financial issues. (JTV, RJ 1/23 in FBIS 1/24; VOP 1/23, AFP, RJ 1/24, JT, RJ 1/25 in FBIS 1/25; WT 1/25; RJ 1/24, JT 1/25 in FBIS 1/26)

FM Peres says Israel will outlaw Hamas, Islamic Jihad charities, mosques in West Bank; says Israeli needs to "adopt draconian measures," incl. against attackers' families, to prevent further attacks. (IDF Radio 1/23 in FBIS 1/24)

Israeli Amb. David Sultan suggests Egyptian People's Assembly invite Knesset delegation to visit Cairo to ease tensions btwn. Israel, Egypt. Assembly declines. (MENA 1/23 in FBIS 1/23)

Asst. Secy. of State Pelletreau, Egyptian Pres. Mubarak meet, discuss bilateral relations. Mubarak says Egypt will not back down on NPT issue. (MENA 1/23 in FBIS 1/23)

PM Rabin's security advisors extend waiver of restrictions on Shin Bet for combatting terrorism. Health M Efraim Sneh comments "There are no limitations for the security services--[We have given them] a free hand." (WP, WT 1/24)

PM Rabin, FM Peres, Arafat accept Nobel Prize in Oslo. 100s of Jews in Jerusalem, 1000s of Palestinians in Gaza protest. (MM 12/9; WP, WP 12/10; NYT, WP, WT 12/11; VOP 12/10, IGPO, QY 12/11 in FBIS 12/12; MM 12/12, 12/13; WJW 12/15; CSM, MEI 12/16; PR 12/18)

Israel announces it will turn over $8.3 m. of tax money to PA. (MM 11/23; PR 11/27; QY 11/23 in FBIS 11/29; NYT 11/24) (see 11/20)

Jordanian Council of Ms approves creation of 4 comms. to address implementation of Jordan-Israel treaty: a Jordanian Consultants Steering Comm., a Jordanian comm. to follow up on implementation decisions, the Jordanian delegation to the joint Jordanian-Israeli comm. on implementation, the Jordanian delegation to the joint comm. on Jordan Rift development. (RJ 11/23 in FBIS 11/25)

4 Fateh Central Comm. mbrs. (al-Qaddumi, Abu-Mahir Gunaym, Sakhr Habash, Muhammad Jihad) meet in Tunis; issue statement, objecting to Arafat's attempts to involve Fateh in PA's battles with Islamist opposition. (Al-Majd 11/28 in FBIS 12/2; CSM 12/7) (see 11/22)

Argentine Pres. Carlos Menem ends visit to Syria; announces he brought message fr. Israeli FM Peres to Pres. al-Asad, expressing Israel's willingness to withdraw fully fr. Golan. Peres denies Menem's remarks. (Telam 11/21 in FBIS 11/22; MM 11/24; QY, SATN 11/23 in FBIS 11/25; WT 11/24; JP 12/3) (see 9/27)

1st shipping agmt. btwn. Israel, Jordan reached; allows free passage of small vessels on both sides of Gulf of Elat, shipping licenses, radio communications. (QY 11/23 in FBIS 11/23; RJ 11/23 in FBIS 11/25)

3,000 rally in Jericho in support of Arafat, peace process. PA Preventative Security Forces (PSF) men, inc. Col. Jibril Rajub, get into fistfight with mbrs. of Arafat's presidential guard over which group is allowed to carry arms at rally. (MM, NYT, WP 11/24; CSM 11/28)

PA, Islamist opposition reach agmt. to avoid future clashes, pursue mediation, reconciliation in wake of 11/18 incident. Agmt. is signed by Arafat adviser, Ahmad al-Tibi, leader of Islamic Movement inside Green Line, Shaykh `Abdullah Nimr Darwish. (MM 11/24; AFP 11/23, VOP 11/24 in FBIS 11/29)

Arafat holds mtgs. with Fateh, Islamic groups; indirectly accuses Israel of sparking 11/18 violence in attempt to assassinate Hamas leaders; releases 31 Islamic Jihad mbrs. fr. jail to appease opposition. Protests continue, Hamas asks Arafat to fire Justice M Frayh Abu-Midyan, 2 senior police officials. (NYT, WP, WT 11/21; VOP 11/20, 11/21 in FBIS 11/22, MM 11/22; PR 11/27; MEI 12/2)

PM Rabin states some Israelis are acting with "criminal irresponsibility" by "spreading lies" in the U.S. to discourage U.S. government fr. stationing of troops in Golan, asks embassy staff in U.S. to confront them. (IDF Radio, QY 11/21 in FBIS 11/21) (see 9/29)

Israeli FM Shimon Peres suggests Israel ease economic pressure on PA by giving PA $13 m. in tax money collected fr. Palestinians working in Israel. Some MKs oppose suggestion, saying Israel should not fund Palestinian autonomy. (QY 11/20 in FBIS 11/21; WP 11/21)

Sen. Helms calls Syrian efforts at peace a "fraud," says he will oppose U.S. troop presence in Golan as head of Foreign Relations Comm. (QY 11/20, Davar 11/21 in FBIS 11/21; NYT, WP 11/22)

PM Rabin orders more troops to guard settlements in Gaza Strip. (WP, WT 11/21)

7 Fateh Central Comm. mbrs. living outside autonomous areas hold mtg. in Tunis to discuss 11/18 violence. (Al-Sharq Al-Awsat 11/25 in FBIS 11/29)

New weekly newspaper Al-Hayat Al-Jadid is issued in o.t., claiming to be "new opposition," accepting PA while improving its performance fr. within. It is published by frmr. PLO Amb. to Moscow Nabil `Amr, edited by Hafiz Barghouti. (PR 11/20)

PNA Planning M Shaath, Israeli FM Peres hold Supreme Liaison Comm. mtg. in Cairo; agree to resume talks, continue implementing of peace accord; appoint comm. to discuss PNA role at border crossings, free movement btwn. Gaza, Jericho; discuss methods of curbing Hamas. (WP, WT 10/23; MENA, QY 10/24 in FBIS 10/24; WT 10/24)

FM Peres meets with Egyptian Pres. Mubarak, discusses peace process, movement on Syrian track, upcoming Casablanca economic summit. (IDF Radio, MENA 10/23 in FBIS 10/24)

Israeli cabinet approves bringing in 19,000 new foreign workers to compensate for labor shortage caused by closure of the territories. (MM 10/24; JP 11/5)

Palestinian, Nidal Tamimi, is killed in confrontation with IDF at Hebron checkpoint. Amateur video tape is released showing wounded, unconscious Tamimi being shot in head by soldier. Tape ignites furor. (WP 11/4; WT 11/16)

Islamic Jihad dismisses Sec. Gen. Fayiz al-Aswad, divests him of all powers, elects Shaykh Husayn Anbar as new leader. (RMC 10/23 in FBIS 10/24)

Israel says it has arrested 50 Hamas mbrs. in West Bank since bus bombing 10/19. (MM, NYT 10/24; WP 10/25)

Arab League "strongly denounces" Israeli PM Rabin's decision to build new housing in West Bank settlement, calling it a "flagrant violation" of the DOP. (MENA, RE 9/27 in FBIS 9/28)

Israeli FM Peres meets with Argentinean Pres. Carlos Menem in New York, asks him to help arrange mtg. btwn. PM Rabin, Syrian Pres. al-Asad. (QY 9/27 in FBIS 9/29)

Jordan renounces religious links to West Bank, reaffirms spiritual authority in Jerusalem in move to avoid conflict with PLO. PNA says it will assume administrative, financial duties for West Bank religious institutions next mo. (JTV 9/27 in FBIS 9/28; NYT 9/28; MM 9/28; QY 9/28 in FBIS 9/28; AFP 9/28 in FBIS 9/29; MEI 10/7; JP 10/8)

Hamas calls on its mbrs. to avoid clashes with Palestinian police. (VOP 9/27 in FBIS 9/28; WT 9/28) (see 9/24)

U.S. envoy Dennis Ross arrives in Jerusalem, talks with PM Peres and FM Rabin, says "real gaps" remain btwn. Israeli, Syrian positions. Later meets with Arafat, discusses aid, elections. (MM 9/21; WT 9/22; VOP 9/22 in FBIS 9/22)

PLO Pol. Dept. head Faruq al-Qaddumi, Jordanian PM al-Majali meet in Jordan, agree to resume PLO-Jordanian contacts at the "ministerial level" before end of the month. (JT 9/24 in FBIS 9/26)

Al-Qaddumi vows to fight new U.S. position in UN, strengthen language of resolutions presented. Egypt, Jordan say they will also oppose U.S. moves. (Reuters 9/21; RJ 9/26 in FBIS 9/26)

Israeli PM Rabin holds consultations on Palestinian elections with FM Peres, MK Shahal, MK Sarid, Chief of Staff Barak, IDF, police officials. Rabin, Barak want negotiations on elections only, talks on extending autonomy later. Peres, others say there is no choice but to discuss all issues simultaneously. (ITV, QY 9/21 in FBIS 9/22)

Jordan's Crown Prince Hasan, Likud head Binyamin Netanyahu meet in London, discuss Jordanian, Likud views on negotiations. Netanyahu suggest Jordan, Israel reach a "strategic consensus" opposing PLO; Hassan gives no reaction. (JTV 9/21 in FBIS 9/22; MM 9/22; JP 10/1)

Arafat meets with Hamas mbrs. inc. spokesmen Mahmud al-Zahhar, Isma'il Haniyah; discusses ways to enhance national unity, safeguard security in autonomous areas; releases 3 Hamas mbrs. detained after shooting 9/17. (VOP 9/22 in FBIS 9/22; AFP 9/22 in FBIS 9/23)

IDF imposes curfew on village of Biddu nr. Ramallah after riot sparked by death 9/18 of Palestinian by IDF at roadblock. (QY 9/21 in FBIS 9/21)

Arafat approves license of pro-Islamist daily newspaper, Al-Istiqlal to be run by `Ala' al-Saftawi, `Adnan `Abu-Hasnah. (VOP 9/21 in FBIS 9/22)

Israeli border police arrests 7 Palestinian policemen for being in Jerusalem area without permits. (ITV 9/21 in FBIS 9/22)

Morocco, Israel announce they will open liaison offices in Tel Aviv, Rabat, making Morocco 1st Arab country to establish official ties with Israel since Egypt. Morocco also to open liaison office in Gaza, but diplomatic contacts with PNA will still go through Tunis. (MM 9/1; NYT, WP, WT 9/2; NYT 9/4; WJW 9/8)

Israeli FM Peres tells Arafat that Pakistani PM Bhutto may enter Gaza after all. Pakistan say it is too late to reschedule visit. (MM 8/31; QY 8/31 in FBIS 8/31; JP 9/10)

Schools open for classes in West Bank under PNA control. (NYT, WT 9/2)

Palestinian police release last 4 Hamas mbrs. being held for 8/14 attack. (AFP 9/1 in FBIS 9/2)

PLO Chmn. Arafat, Israeli FM Peres, Norwegian FM Bjørn Tore Godal meet in Gaza to mark 1st anniversary of Oslo accords, present plan for funds transfers fr. donor nations to PNA. Peres announces release of 249 Palestinian prisoners, says control over education will be given to PNA within the wk. (WP 8/20; WT 8/21; QY 8/19 in FBIS 8/22; JP 8/27)

Round of Israeli-Jordanian talks concludes. Jordanian negotiator Fayiz Tarawnah, Israeli negotiator Elyaqim Rubenstein sign agmts. to link electricity, telephone grids. Subagendas set on water, borders, security. Tentative agmt. set for Israel to buy Iraqi oil fr. Jordan. (RJ 8/18 in FBIS 8/19; JTV 8/19 in FBIS 8/22; MEI 8/26; JP 8/27)

Israeli FM Peres gives okay for Palestine National Council (PNC) to convene in Gaza, temporarily removing several PNC members fr. Israel's blacklist, to pressure Arafat to amend PLO charter. (AFP 8/21 in FBIS 8/22; MM 8/22; HA 8/23 in FBIS 8/24; CSM 8/25)

Islamic Conference Organization (ICO) passes statement supporting PNA, peace process. (MENA 8/19 in FBIS 8/23)

Israeli FM Shimon Peres says Israeli-Palestinian Liaison Comm. agreed to international temporary force for deployment in West Bank. Troops to be fr. Australia, Turkey, Norway, Finland, 2 European countries. Palestinians to man Gaza, Jericho crossing pts. Israel to issue 35,000 new work permits to Gaza Palestinians. (MENA 8/17 in FBIS 8/18; JP 8/27)

Israel freezes plans for IDF withdrawal fr. o.t., ties extension of self-rule to a halt in Hamas attacks on Israelis. PM Yitzhak Rabin calls current steps by PNA to curb Hamas a publicity stunt. 5 of 40 Hamas mbrs. arrested by Palestinian police 8/15 still held. (QY 8/17 in FBIS 8/18; NYT 8/18)

Jordan's Tourism M Muhammad Al-Idwan arrives in Israel for joint talks, 1st high-level Jordanian official to publicly visit Israel. (Near East Report 8/22)

IDF Chief of Staff Gen. Ehud Barak meets Defense Secy. William Perry, JCS Chmn. Gen. John Shalikashvili, National Security Advisor Anthony Lake in Washington; stresses Israel should hold onto all of Golan for security purposes. (ITV 8/17 in FBIS 8/18; WT 8/19)

PNA M of Trade and Econ. Ahmad Qurai` protests to Jordan that its trade agmt. with Israel (see 8/16) violates existing agmts. btwn. Israel, PLO. (ITV 8/17 in FBIS 8/18)

Hamas, Islamic Jihad, DFLP, PFLP issue leaflet saying Arafat's recent crackdown on Hamas is pushing Palestinians to "the edge of civil war." (AFP 8/17 in FBIS 8/18; MM 8/22)

IDF kills Palestinian trying to enter Israel fr. Gaza nr. Rafah. (QY 8/17 in FBIS 8/18; UNRWA News 8/24))

TIPH observers leave Hebron, saying Israeli-Palestinian tensions have subsided.  Hebron Mayor Mustafa al-Natsha says observers "did not achieve their main goal" of restoring normal life to Hebron.  (NYT, WP 8/9)

Palestinian-Israeli "early empowerment" talks resume in Cairo.  (MENA 8/8 in FBIS 8/9; CSM 8/9)

Israeli PM Rabin, Jordanian Crown Prince Hassan preside at ribbon-cutting of border crossing btwn. Aqaba, Jordan, and Eilat, Israel.  Rabin becomes 1st Israeli govt. head to officially visit Jordan.  King Hussein hosts Rabin, FM Peres, and Secy of State Christopher at luncheon.  Christopher returns to Israel with Rabin, Peres for more mtgs.  Crossing is initially for use of 3d-country nationals, including Israelis with foreign passports.  Following his mtg. with Peres, Christopher announces that he will not return to Syria as planned.  (Jordanian TV 8/8 in FBIS 8/8, 8/9; MM 8/8; CSM, NYT, WP, WT 8/9; MM 8/11)

"Source" says that Argentine judge has evidence linking Iranian diplomats to 7/18 Buenos Aires bombing.  (NYT, WT 8/9)