23 / 15150 Results
  • July 17, 2004

    The IDF raids Saida village nr. Tulkarm, killing local Hamas cmdr. Basil Abu Sha‘b, local AMB cmdr. Sahir Ajaj in what may be assassinations; fatally shoots a stonethrowing Palestinian in Balata r...

    Read more
  • July 1, 2003

    The IDF fatally shoots a Palestinian outside Tulkarm, saying the man fired on their post, causing no injuries; fires on residential areas of Khan Yunis, wounding an 8-yr.-old Palestinian among...

    Read more
  • July 10, 2000

    In the morning, PM Barak goes to Cairo to discuss the final status talks with Pres. Mubarak. He then returns to Israel and narrowly survives a Knesset vote on 2 no-confidence motions, freeing him...

    Read more
  • July 21, 1999

    In Cairo, Egyptian FM Musa, Jordan's Chief of the Royal Court Kabariti confer on the peace process. Kabariti brings a message fr. King Abdallah to Pres. Mubarak. (MENA 7/21 in WNC 7/22; JT 7/24 in...

    Read more
  • July 20, 1999

    Pres. Clinton phones Syrian pres. Asad to brief him on his talks with Israeli PM Barak, encourages Syria to resume negotiations with Israel. (MM 7/20; WT 7/21)

    Meeting on the peace process...

    Read more
  • July 18, 1999

    Israeli officials announce that PM Barak has told U.S. officials that he has set a target deadline of 15 mos. for achieving a comprehensive framework for Middle East peace. His plan calls for...

    Read more
  • July 2, 1999

    Israeli PM-elect Barak phones Arafat for their 1st official conversation since Barak won the 5/17 elections. They agree to meet soon to restart peace talks. (NYT, WT 7/3; MENA 7/3 in WNC 7/6; JP 7...

    Read more
  • June 23, 1999

    Syrian pres. Asad, Israeli PM-elect Barak trade public compliments in the press another sign that their nations are moving toward resuming peace talks. (MM 6/23; MM, NYT, WP, WT 6/24; MENA 6/24 in...

    Read more
  • July 13, 1998

    PC grants Arafat's request to give him until 7/25 to appoint a new cabinet. (WT 7/15; PR 7/17) (see 6/24)

    State Dept. announces that despite fact that gaps on FRD have not narrowed, senior...

    Read more
  • July 7, 1998

    Pres. Clinton holds talks with White House, State Dept. on the peace process; instructs State Dept. to inform Israel, PA that the time has come for the 2 sides to deal directly with each other if...

    Read more
  • July 4, 1998

    In Damascus, Pres. Asad receives congressional delegation led by Rep. Tom Campbell (R-CA), fmr. congressman Wayne Owens for talks on the peace process. U.S. Amb. to Syria Ryan Crocker also attends...

    Read more
  • June 19, 1998

    Secy. of State Albright phones PM Netanyahu to condemn his 6/18 plan to Judaize Jerusalem, then holds conference call with Council of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations (CPMAJO) to...

    Read more
  • June 18, 1998

    PM Netanyahu presents draft plan to extend Jerusalem's municipal boundaries, tighten Israel's control over the city, support Jews moving into East Jerusalem (particularly Har Homa/Jabal Abu...

    Read more
  • July 10, 1996

    PM Netanyahu speaks before joint session of Congress. Rep. Benjamin Gilman (R-NY), noted for holding up Middle East Peace Facilitation Act aid to the PLO, calls speech "an eloquent and visionary...

    Read more
  • June 27, 1996

    Arafat, Netanyahu adviser Gold meet in Gaza. (MM 6/28; QY 6/28 in FBIS 6/28; QY 6/28, MENA 6/29 in FBIS 7/1; MEI, PR 7/5; JP 7/6)

    Syria strongly denounces Israeli PM Netanyahu's 6/26...

    Read more
  • June 26, 1996

    PC opens weekly 2-day session in Gaza. (VOP 6/26 in FBIS 6/27)

    In his strongest attack on Syria since the 5/29 elections, Israeli PM Netanyahu accuses Syria of being a base for terror, says...

    Read more
  • June 29, 1995

    Syrian-Israeli talks end with sides agreeing on general needs but, to the U.S.'s chagrin, not discussing specifics. Pres. Clinton briefly meets with Syrian, Israeli generals at the White House. (...

    Read more
  • June 19, 1995

    8th round of multilateral talks open in Amman. Multilateral Working Group on the Environment meets. (IGPO 6/19)

    Irish FM Spring meets with Faisal Husseini at Orient House in East Jerusalem...

    Read more
  • May 16, 1995

    Monthly 2-day mtg. of the  task force of the Multilateral Working Group on Economic Development opens in Cairo. (al-Hayat, MM 5/16; al-Sha`b 5/19 in FBIS 5/23)

    In Tel Aviv, PA...

    Read more
  • July 20, 1994

    Secy of State Christopher meets Jordan's King Hussein in Amman, Hussein telling press conference he will not sign a peace treaty at 7/25 summit with Israeli PM Rabin.  Hussein expresses "fervent...

    Read more
  • July 18, 1994

    Israel seals off Gaza Strip after previous day's riot at Erez checkpoint until "further notice."  Israeli cabinet mbrs. accuse Palestinian police of "gross irresponsibility" in incident.  (NYT 7/...

    Read more
  • July 11, 1994

    Israeli, PLO negotiators open talks in Cairo on "early empowerment" of Palestinians in West Bank, expansion of self-rule area, redeploying IDF, elections.  Israeli side headed by IDF Maj. Gen...

    Read more
  • July 10, 1994

    PNA Justice M Freih Abu Middein announces investigation into death in custody of Rafah r.c. resident.  Prisoner held on suspicion of drug smuggling, collaboration.  Justice Min. statement says...

    Read more

The IDF raids Saida village nr. Tulkarm, killing local Hamas cmdr. Basil Abu Sha‘b, local AMB cmdr. Sahir Ajaj in what may be assassinations; fatally shoots a stonethrowing Palestinian in Balata r.c.; fires on residential areas of Dayr al-Balah, Rafah. Suspected Fatah gunmen fr. Nablus fire on a jeep outside ‘Ayn Bayt al-Ma’ r.c. thought mistakenly to be driven by rival Fatah mbrs., injuring 2 Palestinians. Armed PFLP mbrs. exchange fire with armed PA intelligence and Force 17 officers guarding a Palestinian collaborator (responsible for the deaths of 2 PFLP cmdrs. in and IDF raid on 7/6) being held in the Nablus governate office; no injuries are reported. (PR 7/21; PCHR, PM 7/22; HA 7/23)

In light of the 7/16 kidnappings, Arafat declares a state of emergency in Gaza; issues a decree for a “temporary restructuring” of the security forces into 3 branches: public security, with his distant cousin Musa Arafat as its new head; police, with Arafat loyalist Saeb Ajiz as its new head; general intelligence, with Amin al-Hindi, a loyalist increasingly critical of Arafat, maintaining leadership of the dept. Soon after, 1,000s of armed, masked Palestinians gather outside the PC headquarters in Gaza to protest the appointment of Musa Arafat, whom they say is corrupt, as cronyism. Qurai‘ resigns, citing the lack of true reform; Arafat rejects his resignation. (NYT, WP, XIN 7/17; MENA, PSCT, VOI, VOP 7/17, AYM, HA, MA, XIN, YA 7/18, JP 7/19 in WNC 7/21; AYM 7/18, JP 7/20 in WNC 7/22; al-Quds 7/18; DUS 7/19 in WNC 7/23; NYT, WP, WT 7/18; MM 7/19; HA, MM 7/20; PR 7/21; WP 7/22; MEI 7/23; AYM 8/6 in WNC 8/10)

The IDF fatally shoots a Palestinian outside Tulkarm, saying the man fired on their post, causing no injuries; fires on residential areas of Khan Yunis, wounding an 8-yr.-old Palestinian among others; conducts arrest raids in Jenin, Nablus. Palestinians fire mortars at Gush Katif, causing no damage or injuries. (BBC, HA 7/1; JP, NYT, WP 7/2; PCHR 7/3; VOI 7/3 in WNC 7/10)

In Nazareth, Israeli bulldozers tear down the foundation of a mosque on a site adjacent to the Church of the Annunciation over the tomb of a Muslim saint. Muslims, Christians have disputed the construction of the mosque for 6 yrs. In 4/99, PM Ehud Barak gave formal permission for the project, sparking riots and bringing formal protests fr. the Vatican. In 3/02, Sharon ordered a halt to construction. (MM 7/1; MM, NYT, WT 7/2; JP 7/2 in WNC 7/10; JPI 7/11, 7/25)

Abbas, Sharon hold their 3d mtg. to discuss road map implementation; agree to establish 4 comms. to oversee release of Palestinian political prisoners, a halt to Palestinian incitement, security, trade. Sharon says that Arafat may travel to Gaza “as long as he stays there” and if he asks Israel’s permission. (HA, MM 7/1; AYM, MENA 7/1, Interfax, QA 7/2 in WNC 7/10; HA, MM, NYT, WP, WT 7/2; MM 7/4; JPI, MEI 7/11)

In the morning, PM Barak goes to Cairo to discuss the final status talks with Pres. Mubarak. He then returns to Israel and narrowly survives a Knesset vote on 2 no-confidence motions, freeing him to depart for Camp David late tonight. (Arafat left earlier in the day. (MM 7/10; MENA 7/10 in WNC 7/11; CSM, NYT, WP, WT 7/11; CSM 7/12; Le Monde 7/12 in WNC 7/13; MEI 7/14)

Israel's Ezer Weizman steps down as pres. The timing has nothing to with Barak's coalition crisis; indeed, Weizman's last act is to urge Barak to forge ahead with the Camp David summit. Weizman decided in 5/00 to retire today after a police investigation concluded on 4/6 he was guilty of fraud but that statute of limitations for prosecution had run out. The Knesset will choose a new pres. on 7/31 (NYT, WP 7/11; MM, WJW 7/13; JP 7/21)

Bashar al-Asad, the sole candidate, is elected pres. of Syria with 97% of the vote. Some 210,000 Syrians working in Lebanon returned home for the election. (MM, NYT, WP, WT 7/11; Interfax, MENA, SA 7/11, JT 7/12 in WNC 7/13; CSM, WP, WT 7/12; MEI 7/14)

In Cairo, Egyptian FM Musa, Jordan's Chief of the Royal Court Kabariti confer on the peace process. Kabariti brings a message fr. King Abdallah to Pres. Mubarak. (MENA 7/21 in WNC 7/22; JT 7/24 in WNC 7/26)

Spanish PM Aznar holds talks on the peace process with Lebanese pres. Lahoud, PM Huss in Beirut. Aznar, Huss also sign a $100-m. trade agmt. (al-Nahar 7/21 in WNC 7/22)

In Ankara, Israeli, Turkish air force cmdrs. hold talks on military training cooperation. (ATL 7/21 in WNC 7/22)

In Amman, Arafat aide Tayyib `Abd al-Rahim meets with PFLP Dep. Secy. Gen. Abu Ali Mustafa to discuss a possible reconciliation mtg. btwn. Fatah, the PFLP (ideally btwn. Arafat, as head of Fatah, and PFLP head George Habash). (RMC 7/21 in WNC 7/22; al-Ayyam 7/22 in WNC 7/27; JP, MEI 7/30; IDF Radio 8/5 in WNC 8/6) (see 6/16, 7/19)

IDF reports that in the past 3 wks., attacks on IDF, SLA troops in s. Lebanon have dropped to their lowest level in several yrs. (QA 7/21 in WNC 7/22; WP 7/22; WT 7/28; JP 7/30)

Pres. Clinton phones Syrian pres. Asad to brief him on his talks with Israeli PM Barak, encourages Syria to resume negotiations with Israel. (MM 7/20; WT 7/21)

Meeting on the peace process with Pres. Mubarak in Cairo, Arafat says that Barak's 15-mo. timetable for final settlement is unacceptable; says that when the PLO agreed in 5/99 to put of its unilateral declaration of a Palestinian state, it was assured by the EU and the U.S. that an extension would not exceed 1 yr. (MENA 7/20 in WNC 7/21; MM 7/21; CSM, NYT, WJW 7/22; MEI 7/30)

In Washington, Israeli PM Barak holds 2d round of talks with Secy. of State Albright, meets with congressional leaders, departs for London to meet with British PM Tony Blair. Barak tells Congress mbrs. that they should not push for implementation of the Jerusalem Embassy Act now. (WT 7/20; MM, NYT, WT 7/21)

Israel's new interior M, Sharansky, says he wants to stop Israel's policy of stripping Palestinians of their residency rights if they leave Jerusalem for more than 7 yrs. (CSM, NYT 7/21; LAW, WP 7/22; JP 7/30)

In Gaza, IDF troops fire rubber bullets at Palestinians protesting Jewish settlement expansion, injuring 9. (CSM 7/21)

Israeli officials announce that PM Barak has told U.S. officials that he has set a target deadline of 15 mos. for achieving a comprehensive framework for Middle East peace. His plan calls for simultaneous negotiations with Lebanon, the PA, Syria. Today Barak returns to Washington fr. New York to attend dinner in his honor hosted by First Lady Hillary Clinton; 400 guests attend. (MM, NYT, WT 7/19; MENA 7/19 in WNC 7/20; WJW 7/22; JP 7/23)

Iran claims, Turkey denies that Turkish jets today attacked an Iranian military base and a tribal encampment inside Iran's western border, killing 5, injuring 10. (IRIB Television 7/18 in WNC 7/19; WP 7/19; ATL, IRNA, TT 7/19 in WNC 7/20; HUR 7/19 in WNC 7/22; GIU, MM, WP 7/20; IRNA 7/25 in WNC 7/26)

Israeli PM-elect Barak phones Arafat for their 1st official conversation since Barak won the 5/17 elections. They agree to meet soon to restart peace talks. (NYT, WT 7/3; MENA 7/3 in WNC 7/6; JP 7/9)

Egyptian pres. Mubarak arrives in France for a 2-day visit on his way home fr. the U.S. (Radio France Internationale 7/2 in WNC 7/6)

As part of her "listening tour" of New York to assess her chances of winning a Senate seat if she were to run, First Lady Hillary Clinton sends a letter to the New York-based Orthodox Union saying that contrary to administration policy, she considers Jerusalem "the eternal and indivisible capital of Israel," favors shifting the U.S. embassy fr. Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. State Dept. stresses that she is expressing her personal views, not the opinion of the government. (MM, WP, WT 7/9; MEI 7/16)

A Lebanese girl is injured by IDF shelling in s. Lebanon. (Rl 7/2 in WNC 7/6)

Syrian pres. Asad, Israeli PM-elect Barak trade public compliments in the press another sign that their nations are moving toward resuming peace talks. (MM 6/23; MM, NYT, WP, WT 6/24; MENA 6/24 in WNC 6/28)

In Ramallah, the U.S.-Palestinian Bilateral Comm. meets for the 3d time. (MM 6/23; al-Quds 6/23 in WNC 6/28; JP 7/2)

Israeli-PA joint aviation comm. meets in Gaza. (AYM 6/24 in WNC 6/28)

Iran announces that it has set up a $128-m. fund to pay compensation for some factories seized after the 1979 revolution. Claims must be filed by 8/23. (NYT, WT 6/24)

Jewish settlers fr. Efrat seize a 25-acre plot of land belonging to the Palestinian village of Khadr that they plan to use for a graveyard, set up six mobile homes on a nearby hill. (AFP [Internet] 6/23)

IDF intensifies shelling of Hizballah targets in s. Lebanon, wounding a Lebanese boy and his grandfather. Hizballah responds by firing mortars at an IDF-SLA base nr. the Lebanese-Israeli border. (NYT 6/24)

PC grants Arafat's request to give him until 7/25 to appoint a new cabinet. (WT 7/15; PR 7/17) (see 6/24)

State Dept. announces that despite fact that gaps on FRD have not narrowed, senior Israeli, PA officials have agreed to meet soon face to face for the 1st time in mos. to renew peace talks. Washington will not host the talks, and Secy. Albright is not optimistic about the outcome. (MM, USIS Washington File, WP, WT 7/14; al-Akhbar, YA 7/14 in WNC 7/15; WJW 7/16; PR 7/17)

King Hussein discusses peace process with fmr. Israeli PM Shimon Peres, who is in Amman to attend an international leadership conference. (RJ 7/13, JT 7/14 in WNC 7/15)

UNSC issues nonbinding statement urging Israel to not implement the plan or take any other steps which would prejudice the outcome of the peace process. (MM, NYT, WT 7/14; MENA 7/14 in WNC 7/15; WT 7/15; IRNA 7/15 in WNC 7/16; al-Ba`th 7/15 in WNC 7/20; PR 7/17; JP 7/25) (see 6/30)

A bomb explodes 100 feet from Orient House in East Jerusalem, slightly injuring 1 Palestinian. No one claims responsibility, although Jewish extremists are suspected. (IDF Radio 7/13 in WNC 7/15; WP 7/14; PR 7/17)

 In s. Lebanon, 1 Lebanese civilian, 2 UNIFIL soldiers are injured by IDF shelling. (RL 7/13, 7/14 in WNC 7/15)

 

Pres. Clinton holds talks with White House, State Dept. on the peace process; instructs State Dept. to inform Israel, PA that the time has come for the 2 sides to deal directly with each other if they want to reach a final status agmt. (ITV 7/9 in WNC 7/13)

UNGA votes (124-4, with 10 abstentions) to upgrade the PLO's UN status to that of a nonvoting mbr. or "superobserver." (MM 7/7; MENA 7/7, al-Ahram 7/10 in WNC 7/13; CSM, MM, NYT, WP, WT 7/8; MM, WJW 7/9; al-Thawra 7/9 in WNC 7/14; PR 7/10; MEI 717; JP 7/18) (see 6/29)

Turkish Maritime Lines inaugurates new Turkey-Cyprus-Israel route. (Kibris [Nicosia] 7/8 in WNC 7/13)

In Damascus, Pres. Asad receives congressional delegation led by Rep. Tom Campbell (R-CA), fmr. congressman Wayne Owens for talks on the peace process. U.S. Amb. to Syria Ryan Crocker also attends. (SANA 7/4 in WNC 7/7)

Egypt, Iran agree to set up joint company to market, export pharmaceuticals. (MENA 7/4 in WNC 7/7)

3 Jewish settlers ride horseback through the Palestinian sector of Hebron, smashing Palestinian cars with chains, iron bars. (WT 7/5; MM 7/6; WJW 7/9; JP 7/11)

Hizballah shells SLA post in s. Lebanon, wounding 2 SLA men. (VOL 7/4 in WNC 7/7)

Secy. of State Albright phones PM Netanyahu to condemn his 6/18 plan to Judaize Jerusalem, then holds conference call with Council of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations (CPMAJO) to explain U.S. position. State Dept. finds it "extremely hard to understand why Israel would even consider taking such a provocative step at this sensitive time." PA files complaint with UNSC. (NYT, WP 6/20; al-Ahram al-Masa'i, ITV 6/20, JTV, MENA 6/21, MENA 6/22 in WNC 6/23; MM, NYT, WT 6/22; MM 6/24; al-Ahram 6/24 in WNC 6/25; WJW 6/25; JP 6/27; MEI 7/3; JP 7/4; WT 7/13)

In Sana', 1,000s of Yemenis take to the streets to protest government's implementation of 25-55% increase in fuel prices to meet conditions to receive $80 m. in IMF loans. (WP 6/21; MM 6/22; WP 6/24; MM 6/29)

Pres. Clinton issues determination allowing U.S. air carriers to offer indirect flights to, fr. Lebanon. (NAAA Voice 6/98; VOL 6/23, RL 6/24 in WNC 6/25; MM 6/24)

The Jordanian Democratic Unionist Party (JDUP) votes to change its name to the Democratic Party of the Left to reflect changes in party membership since the JDUP was formed in 1995 by the merger of the Jordan Popular Democratic Party, the Social Democratic Party, the Jordanian Arab Democratic Party. Since 1995, most nationalists have resigned, leaving the party a completely leftist entity. (JT 6/27 in WNC 6/30) (see 8/4/95)

A roadside bomb explodes in Jazzin, killing an SLA mbr., his son (see 3/31). In a separate incident in Beirut, a car bomb kills 2 fmr. mbrs. of the Lebanese Forces Christian militia, one of whom was an explosives expert, leading to speculation that the men accidently triggered a bomb they were planting. (VOL 6/19 in WNC 6/22; WP 6/20; MM 6/23; RL, RMC 7/2 in WNC 7/6; VOL 7/7, al-Nahar 7/8 in WNC 7/13; MEI 7/17)

PM Netanyahu presents draft plan to extend Jerusalem's municipal boundaries, tighten Israel's control over the city, support Jews moving into East Jerusalem (particularly Har Homa/Jabal Abu Ghunaym); tells reporters, "I think this is a basic change in Jerusalem's status that will be remembered as a turning point." (MM, NYT, PR, WP 6/19; al-Ahram al-Masa'i, ITV, RE 6/20, JTV, MENA, RJ 6/21, MENA 6/22 in WNC 6/23; al-Thawra 6/21 in WNC 6/25; WJW 6/25; PR 6/26; JP 6/27; MEI 7/3; JP 7/4)

In Washington, Refugee Working Group opens 2-day intersessional mtg. (USIS Washington File 6/19)

Commenting on Albright's 6/17 speech, Iran says that words are inadequate, U.S. should take actions (such as halting aid to Iranian opposition groups, unfreezing funds in U.S.) to show its good will. (MM, NYT, WT 6/19; MEI 7/3)

UNSCOM head Butler submits report that Iraq is refusing to turn over documents about its missiles, biological and chemical weapons. Iraq claims documents do not exist, it is not require to turn over information. (WP, WT 6/19; al-Ahram 6/19 in WNC 6/22; al-Ahram 6/21 in WNC 6/23; MM 6/24) (see 6/14)

IDF demolishes 6 Palestinian homes nr. Bethlehem in Israeli-controlled area C. (ITV 6/18 in WNC 6/22) (see 6/17)

PM Netanyahu speaks before joint session of Congress. Rep. Benjamin Gilman (R-NY), noted for holding up Middle East Peace Facilitation Act aid to the PLO, calls speech "an eloquent and visionary tour de force." Netanyahu then hold talks with congressional leaders, representatives fr. Arab embassies, CIA Dir. John Deutch. (ITV, QY, SARR 7/10, QY, YA 7/11 in FBIS 7/11; MM, NYT, WJW, WP, WT 7/11; CSM 7/12; QY 7/14 in FBIS 7/15; MM 7/16; WJW 7/18; MEI 7/19; JP 7/20)

In Hebron, Palestinians clash with Israeli police after PM Netanyahu fails to set a date for redeployment in the city; IDF seals area, imposes curfew. Palestinians had hoped Clinton would have pressured Netanyahu to set a timetable for redeployment, easing of closure. (QY 7/20 in FBIS 7/10; QY, RE, SARR 7/10, al-Hayat, QY, RE, SARR, VOP 7/11 in FBIS 7/11; CSM, MM, WP, WT 7/11; RMC 7/10, al-Hayat, QY 7/11, VOP 7/12 in FBIS 7/12; MM 7/15)

Bowing to pressure fr. ultraorthodox Jews, Israeli Transportation Min. agrees to close Bar Ilan Street, 1 of Jerusalem's main roads, for most of the Jewish Sabbath for a 4-mo. trial period. Israeli High Court overrides his order with a temporary injunction to keep the road open. Israeli police expect demonstrations, violent classes btwn. orthodox, secular Jews. (WT 7/11)

After Organization of African Unity gives near unanimous backing to UN Secy. Gen. Butros-Ghali in his bid for a 2d term. U.S. again says it will veto him if he runs. (WT 7/11) (see 6/23)

Hizballah releases 2 SLA prisoners, proposes to exchange 17 other SLA mbrs. in its custody for 200 Lebanese nationals held in al-Khiyam prison in s. Lebanon. (MENA, VOL 7/10 in FBIS 7/11; MM 7/17)

Arafat, Netanyahu adviser Gold meet in Gaza. (MM 6/28; QY 6/28 in FBIS 6/28; QY 6/28, MENA 6/29 in FBIS 7/1; MEI, PR 7/5; JP 7/6)

Syria strongly denounces Israeli PM Netanyahu's 6/26 statement, urges U.S. to force Israel to adhere to land-for-peace principle. (WT 6/28)

PA releases Palestinian human rights activist Sarraj. Gaza City court dismisses his drug possession charges (6/11); he must still face PA military court charges that he struck an officer (6/12). Sarraj says he believes he was arrested 6/10 because of a letter he sent to Arafat, criticizing the PA's human rights record. (WP 6/27; PR 6/28) (see 6/12)

Israeli atty. gen. clears Agriculture M Eitan of charges of bribery, is pursing charges of misuse of classified material. 2d charge is considered a "lesser offense," conviction would not require Eitan to retire fr. Knesset. (QY 6/27 in FBIS 6/28) (see 6/12)

PC opens weekly 2-day session in Gaza. (VOP 6/26 in FBIS 6/27)

In his strongest attack on Syria since the 5/29 elections, Israeli PM Netanyahu accuses Syria of being a base for terror, says peace efforts with Damascus depend on its ending its "indirect war" with Israel; warns he may seek international economic sanctions against Syria. (MM 6/26; QY 6/26 in FBIS 6/27; CSM, WT 6/27)

In Cairo, U.S. Secy. of State Christopher meets separately with Arafat, Pres. Mubarak. In mtg. with Mubarak, Christopher acknowledged Palestinians right to self-determination as laid out in UN Res. 242 (see 6/25). (CSM, MM 6/26; MENA, RE 6/26 in FBIS 6/26; RE 6/26 in FBIS 6/27; CSM 6/27; MEI 7/5)

Alleged Palestinian assailants infiltrate border fr. Jordan, ambush IDF patrol nr. Jericho, killing 3 soldiers, wounding 2. Jordan permits IDF to cross border in pursuit; coordinates search for wanted men btwn. IDF, Jordanian army. Jordan's King Hussein calls PM Netanyahu to express his condolences. DM Mordechai blames the Jordanian army for not preventing the attack. Syrian-based group Fatah-Uprising takes responsibility, says its West Bank cell carried out the attack. (QPAR 6/26 in FBIS 6/26; JTV, QY, RMC 6/26, JP, YA 6/27 in FBIS 6/27; CSM, MM, NYT, WP, WT 6/27; JP 7/6)

Iraqi security forces arrest, allegedly execute 100 INA mbrs. in n. Iraq. (WP 9/10) (see 6/23)

Syrian-Israeli talks end with sides agreeing on general needs but, to the U.S.'s chagrin, not discussing specifics. Pres. Clinton briefly meets with Syrian, Israeli generals at the White House. (WT 6/28; QY 6/29 in FBIS 6/29; MM, NYT, WP, WT 6/30; AFP, Davar 6/30, SARR 7/1 in FBIS 7/3; SATN 6/29, AFP 6/30 in FBIS 7/5; MEI 7/7; JP 7/8)

In Cairo, Israeli-PA talks on transfer of authority, elections, redeployment close. In transfer talks, sides agree on principle of giving PA control of all civilian spheres before elections, but talks stick on agriculture, electricity. Elections talks stick on size of council, Jerusalem. (MM 6/29; MENA 6/29 in FBIS 7/3)

A 2d briefing paper prepared by the IDF Planning Branch for the Israeli-Syrian talks is leaked to the press. (ITV 6/29, HA, IDF Radio, ITV 6/30 in FBIS 7/3; SARR 7/5 in FBIS 7/5; Davar 6/29 in FBIS 7/7)

Jerusalem City Council passes Mayor Ehud Olmert's decision to give PLO 2 wks. to request rezoning for Orient House or face legal action for violating the building code by running an office in a building zoned for a hotel. (JP 6/30 in FBIS 7/3)

In Hebron, Israeli border police kill wanted Hamas mbr. Taher Kapisha. IDF then orders neighboring Palestinian families to leave their homes, bulldozes their houses, destroys 100s of trees. (MM 6/29; QY 6/29 in FBIS 6/30; MEI 7/7; JP 7/8; PR 7/9)

8th round of multilateral talks open in Amman. Multilateral Working Group on the Environment meets. (IGPO 6/19)

Irish FM Spring meets with Faisal Husseini at Orient House in East Jerusalem, discusses 7/1 deadline for agmt. on transfer of authority. Israeli Pres. Weizman cancels scheduled mtg. with Spring in protest; 100s of Israelis demonstrate. (QY 6/18 in FBIS 6/19; MM 6/19; VOP 6/19, QY 6/20 in FBIS 6/20)

Arafat arrives in Turkey for 2-days of talks with Pres. Sulayman Demirel, PM Tansu Ciller; encourages Turkey to give PA economic aid, put pressure on Israel. (VOP 6/19 in FBIS 6/19; VOP 6/20, MENA 6/21 in FBIS 6/21)

Jordanian Bar Association orders lawyer Ahmad al-Zu'bi to appear before disciplinary board for possible disbarment for leading Liberal party delegation on visit to Israel 6/12. (al-Majd 6/19 in FBIS 6/20)

After wks of negotiations btwn. Arafat and Imad al-Faluji, al-Faluji's pro-Hamas weekly al-Watan is permitted to reopen. Editor Sayyid Abu Musamih remains jailed. (HA 6/20 in FBIS 6/21; PR 7/25) (see 5/14)

Israeli lawmaker Avraham Burg is elected new chairman of Jewish Agency, calls assimilation the biggest threat facing the Jewish people. (WT 6/21; JP 7/15)

For 2d day, IDF moves reinforcements into Biqa` valley, raising tensions in s. Lebanon. (RL 6/19 in FBIS 6/20)

Monthly 2-day mtg. of the  task force of the Multilateral Working Group on Economic Development opens in Cairo. (al-Hayat, MM 5/16; al-Sha`b 5/19 in FBIS 5/23)

In Tel Aviv, PA, Israel hold 1st talks on expanding self-rule, marking 1st time talks have been held inside Israel. Sides agree to transfer 5 more spheres (energy, insurance, labor, postal services, trade and industry) by 7/1. (AFP, MENA, VOP 5/16 in FBIS 5/17; JP 5/27)

In Washington, Syrian FM Faruq al-Shara`, Amb. to U.S. Walid Mu`allim meet with special Middle East envoy Dennis Ross, National Security Council (NSC) adviser Mark Parris; discuss peace process. (RMC, SARR 5/16 in FBIS 5/17)

In continuing crackdown, PA arrests 10 Hamas mbrs., bringing total detained in past 48 hrs. to 20. (AFP 5/16 in FBIS 5/17; MM 5/17)

Steve Abrams, frmr. dep. council for the House Comm. on International Relations, becomes AIPAC's senior lobbyist on economic and trade issues. "For me," he says, "this is coming home." (JP 7/27)

Secy of State Christopher meets Jordan's King Hussein in Amman, Hussein telling press conference he will not sign a peace treaty at 7/25 summit with Israeli PM Rabin.  Hussein expresses "fervent hope" for "comprehensive peace," but says Jordan will "move ahead" with negotiations irrespective of Syrian track.  Monarch asserts that "the holy sites in Jerusalem belong to the Muslim world as a whole."  (MM 7/20; NYT, WP, WT 7/21)

Israeli FM Peres, Jordanian PM and FM Majali, and U.S. Secy of State Christopher meet in Shunah, Jordan, pledge to seek peace.  Peres and Majali indicate state of war may be ended at 7/25 summit in Washington.  (JTV 7/20 in FBIS 7/21; MM 7/20; CSM, NYT, WP, WSJ, WT 7/21)

Palestinian-Israeli talks in Cairo on "early empowerment" of Palestinians conclude, Palestinian negotiator Shaath saying some progress made but Israel not willing to transfer real power in education, health, social, administrative, and financial affairs.  (MENA 7/20 in FBIS 7/21)

PNA Economy M Ahmad Qurai` denied entry to Jerusalem by Israeli authorities.  Qurai` was scheduled to address economic conference, which he speaks to by telephone.  Israel objects to any PNA activities in Jerusalem.  (TJT 7/22; JP 7/30)

IAF rockets Hizballah positions in Iqlim al-Tuffah and eastern Biqa` Valley, Lebanon.  Israel blames Hizballah for 7/18 bombing of building housing Jewish organizations in Buenos Aires, Argentina; Hizballah denies involvement.  (RL 7/20 in FBIS 7/21; NYT, WT 7/21)

Israel seals off Gaza Strip after previous day's riot at Erez checkpoint until "further notice."  Israeli cabinet mbrs. accuse Palestinian police of "gross irresponsibility" in incident.  (NYT 7/19)

Israel-Jordan peace talks open in tent on border 10 mi. north of Aqaba/Eilat.  Israeli delegation headed by Elyakim Rubenstein, Jordanian by Amb. to U.S. Fayiz Tarawnah.  Tarawnah expresses hope talks "will culminate in a treaty of peace," but PM and FM `Abd al-Salam Majali says Jordan "will not make a separate settlement with Israel by any means."  Talks break into working comm. sessions on borders, security, and water, energy, and environment issues.  (RJ, JTV 7/18 in FBIS 7/18; MM 7/18; CSM, NYT, WP, WSJ, WT 7/19)

Palestinian-Israeli talks resume in Cairo, agenda focusing on transfer of education authority to PNA.  (MENA 7/18 in FBIS 7/18)

Secy of State Christopher meets Israeli PM Rabin, FM Peres in Jerusalem, says Arab-Israeli conflict "drawing to an end."  (MM 7/18; NYT, WT 7/19)

Israeli govt. proposes legislation to bar PLO political activity in Israel and Jerusalem unless special approval given.  (MM 7/19; TJT 7/22; JP 7/30)

FM Peres announces Casablanca will host international Middle East economic conference 10/30, with over 2,000 companies participating.  (MM 7/19)

Bomb destroys Buenos Aires building housing Jewish organizations, files on Nazi war criminals in Argentina, killing at least 26, wounding over 100.  Iraqi detained in case; German, Iranian also reported arrested.  Argentine Pres. Menem says Mossad, Spanish intelligence will help in investigation.  Israeli PM Rabin denounces attack as "cowardly, criminal and evil act," vows to "chase perpetrators of terrorism to the end."  PLO official in Argentina says "we deeply lament this attack against peace."  Israeli embassy in Buenos Aires destroyed by bomb 3/92.  (MM, NYT, WP, WT 7/19; WJW 7/21)

Israeli, PLO negotiators open talks in Cairo on "early empowerment" of Palestinians in West Bank, expansion of self-rule area, redeploying IDF, elections.  Israeli side headed by IDF Maj. Gen Danny Rothschild, PLO by PNA Planning M Nabil Shaath.  Separate talks on settling issues remaining fr. 5/4 agreement, including borders of Jericho area, resume.  (MENA 7/11, 7/12 in FBIS 7/12; CSM, MM, NYT, WP, WSJ, WT 7/12)

IDF kills 2 Hamas mbrs. in Nablus after firing anti-tank missles at house they were hiding in.  The 2 had been wanted for a year.  Several buildings in area destroyed.  (Qol Yisra'el 7/11 in FBIS 7/12; MM 7/12; TJT 7/15; JP 7/23)

Qiryat Arba settlers vacate Hebron apartments occupied 7/8 in compromise with Housing M.  (MM 7/12)

PLO Chmn. Arafat departs Tunis for Cairo on way to take up permanent residence in Gaza Strip.  Arafat meets Israeli Dep. FM Beilin to discuss early empowerment of Palestinians in o.t. before his departure.  (Qol Yisra'el 7/11 in FBIS 7/12; NYT, WP, WSJ, WT 7/12)

Israeli PM Rabin accepts King Hussein's offer for a public summit mtg.  (MM 7/11; WP, WSJ, WT 7/12)

Israeli FM Peres announces he will meet Secy of State Christopher, Jordanian PM and FM `Abd al-Salam al-Majali in Jordan 7/20 in 1st public visit of an Israeli official to Jordan.  Israeli-Jordanian bilateral talks to resume 7/18 at Ein Evrona, southern Israel.  Jordanian spokesman says emphasis in talks will be on border, water issues.  (MM 7/11; MM, NYT, WP, WSJ, WT 7/12)

Jordan receives over $900,000 fr. UN for claims by Jordanian families for losses in 1990-91 Gulf war.  (WSJ 7/12)

IAF raids Hizballah positions in Biqa` Valley.  (Qol Yisra'el 7/11 in FBIS 7/11)

PNA Justice M Freih Abu Middein announces investigation into death in custody of Rafah r.c. resident.  Prisoner held on suspicion of drug smuggling, collaboration.  Justice Min. statement says prisoner died of "excessive violence" during interrogation.  3 interrogators detained and under investigation.   Palestinian human-rights orgs., including Hanan Ashrawi's Palestinian Independent Commission for Human Rights, call it a "case of maltreatment and torture."  (NYT 7/10; CSM, MM 7/11)

Israel announces 24-hr. closure of Gaza Strip to start early 7/11 in response to weekend clashes btwn. Palestinians, IDF.  (WSJ, WT 7/11; CSM 7/12)

Israeli Civil Admin., with PLO approval, appoints Fateh mbr. Ghassan al-Shak`a mayor of Nablus.  (Israeli Channel 2 TV 7/10 in FBIS 7/11)

Israel welcomes King Hussein's offer of a summit mtg. with PM Rabin.  (CSM 7/11)

Arafat performs `umra pilgrimage in Mecca, returns to Tunis. PNA Planning M Nabil Shaath says Arafat visit restored Palestinian-Saudi relations PLO Exec. Comm. mbr. Yasir `Abd-Rabbuh tells reporters PLO HQ, including Political Dept., International and Pan-Arab Relations Dept., and Returnees Dept. will remain in Tunis despite Arafat's move to Gaza.  (MENA 7/10 in FBIS 7/11; MM 7/11; WT 7/13)

Israeli navy kills 2 PFLP frogmen off coast nr. Naqura.  (Qol Yisra'el 7/11 in FBIS 7/13; MM 7/12; JP 7/23)