The Palestine Chronology

Israeli forces raid Yatta village nr. Hebron late at night and carry out the punitive demolition orders for the homes of the 2 Palestinians who shot and killed 4 Israelis in Tel Aviv on 6/8. In accordance with a court order, 1 of the homes is only partially destroyed. The IDF temporarily closes the major Beit El checkpoint nr. Ramallah after soldiers find a suspicious object nearby; arrests 1 Palestinian during a late-night raid nr. Hebron, and patrols nr. Hebron throughout the day. IDF troops briefly clash with Palestinians participating in a sit-in in solidarity with Palestinian prisoners in Ramallah, detaining 1 temporarily and causing no serious injuries. In East Jerusalem, Israeli police detain 4 Islamic Waqf employees doing minor repair work at Haram al-Sharif while a group of Jewish settlers tour the sanctuary. The Waqf employees are accused of doing repairs without permission from the Israel Antiquities Authority. Meanwhile, Israeli forces demolish a Palestinian home in Bayt Hanina for the 6th time since 1995, when the family first started seeking a permit for the newly built structure, and also demolish 3 livestock structures in al-Nabi Samuel. They also arrest 1 Palestinian during a late-night raid in Qatanna. Along Gaza’s border, Israeli forces conduct a limited incursion to level land nr. Khan Yunis. Off Gaza’s coast late at night, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats nr. Gaza City and later nr. Jabaliya r.c., destroying the engine of 1 boat and causing no injuries. (MNA, WAFA 8/3; JP, MNA, PCHR, WAFA 8/4; PCHR 8/11)

U.S. and Israeli officials conclude a 3-day round of negotiations on a new military aid agreement. They reportedly settle all remaining discrepancies, except for gaps on some technical issues. A U.S. official says, “We’ve made progress and closed many of the remaining gaps,” adding, “We hope soon to be able to reach final agreement”. (HA, JP 8/4)

The Israeli press reports that Israel’s Defense Ministry has issued tenders for the construction of an underground wall to encircle Gaza. The wall is being designed to deter Hamas’s tunneling efforts. Construction is set to start in 10/2016. (TOI, YA 8/3)

In the West Bank, IDF troops violently disperse Palestinian, Israeli, and international protesters at weekly demonstrations against the Israeli occupation in 4 villages nr. Ramallah (Bil‘in, Ni‘lin, Silwad, and Nabi Salih), and Kafr Qaddum nr. Qalqilya; 3 Palestinians are injured. The IDF also conducts house searches and raids in Tulkarm and 1 village nr. Hebron, issuing an arrest summons to 1 Palestinian; patrols during the day in 3 villages nr. Ramallah, 2 nr. Hebron, and 1 nr. Jericho. Unidentified assailants set fire to a gas station nr. the Israeli settlement Eli, causing damage. (AFP, MNA, TOI 8/14; NYT 8/16; PCHR 8/20)

Hunger-striking Palestinian prisoner Allan is placed in a medically induced coma after his condition deteriorates. Later, Islamic Jihad’s military wing, Sarayat al-Quds Brigades, says that if Allan dies, they will not continue upholding the cease-fire with Israel. (HA, JP, MNA, NYT, YA 8/14)

The Arab Bank reaches a settlement in a case brought by hundreds of U.S. citizens accusing the bank of facilitating Hamas attacks in Israel. The terms of the settlement are not disclosed. A U.S. court ruled in 9/2014 that the Jordan-based Arab Bank was liable for knowingly supporting Hamas in its attacks. (TOI 8/14; JP 8/15)

In Gaza, 4 Palestinians are killed and over 30 are injured when a piece of unexploded Israeli ordnance is accidentally detonated in Rafah (a 5th Palestinian will succumb to her injuries on 8/16). In the West Bank, a Palestinian driver rams 3 Israeli settlers hitchhiking between Nablus and Ramallah, injuring 2 seriously. IDF troops open fire on the driver, critically injuring him. IDF troops then raid the driver’s home in a village n. of Jerusalem, sparking clashes with stone-throwing Palestinian youths; 3 Palestinians are injured. IDF troops also conduct late-night raids and house searches in 1 village each nr. Bethlehem and Hebron, issuing arrest summons to 4 Palestinians; patrol during the day in 2 villages and al-‘Arub r.c. nr. Hebron, and 1 village each nr. Jericho and Ramallah. Israeli forces demolish a Palestinian tire repair store and another structure nr. Bethlehem. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest a Palestinian youth accused of stonethrowing and confiscate a Palestinian’s donkey in al-Tur, after Israeli settlers in the area reportedly complain that the donkey is a nuisance. (HA, JP, MNA, NYT, TOI, WAFA, YA 8/6; MNA 8/7; PCHR 8/13)

Hamas and PFLP officials meet in Gaza and condemn the PA’s 7/31 appointment of 5 new ministers. (MNA 8/7) The Israeli govt. approves its budget for 2015–16, including a NIS 340 m. ($90 m.) special grant to develop infrastructure in Israel’s West Bank settlements. The grant was included in the budget in obligation of Likud’s coalition agreement with the Jewish Home Party. (HA, JP 8/6) 

In the Gaza Strip, the IDF continues its assault with air strikes on over 50 targets, killing 18 Palestinians and injuring dozens more. Also,IDF troops stationed nr. the border shell areas across the fence with artillery in 3 incidents. The armed Palestinian groups launch approximately 135 projectiles into Israel; of which, 125 land in open areas, 5 in urban areas, and 10 are intercepted by Iron Dome batteries. Israeli authorities temporarily close the Erez border crossing, except for humanitarian cases, in response to a mortar shell wounding 3 Israelis nearby, which is claimed by al-Qassam Brigades. In the West Bank, approximately 400 Israeli settlers, escorted by IDF troops, enter a village nr. Salfit to visit religious monuments. In a village w. of Ramallah, IDF troops open fire with live ammunition and tear gas on a group of stone-throwing Palestinian youth, injuring 1. Separately, IDF troops fire tear gas at Palestinian children on their way to school in a village s. of Hebron; establish 5 mobile checkpoints around Ramallah; and conduct patrols in Hebron and 2 villages nr. Jericho. Late at night, the IDF conducts 1 house search and arrest raid in a village nr. Hebron. In East Jerusalem, Israeli security forces enter Wadi al-Juz to set up a mobile checkpoint and raid 2 houses. (JP, JTA, YA 8/24; HA 8/25; PCHR 8/28) 

Israeli PM Netanyahu says that OPE will continue until its goals are reached, in comments to the press ahead of a special cabinet meeting at the Israeli Defense Ministry. Also, the Israeli govt. calls up 10,000 additional reserve troops. (AP, HA 8/24; AFP, HA 8/25)

After meetings with Arab League secy.-gen. Nabil al-‘Arabi and reps. of several Palestinian factions, PA Pres. Abbas returns to Ramallah from Cairo. Abbas will meet with senior Palestinian officials to further develop his new diplomatic initiative before U.S. Secy. of State Kerry visits in the coming days. Meanwhile, Hamas leader Khalid Mishal says in an interview with Iranian TV that Hamas would not return to negotiations in Cairo. (JP 8/24; HA, ToI 8/25)

In the Gaza Strip, Palestinians continue emergency relief efforts, with many more bodies found in the rubble and many people succumbing to their injuries. In East Jerusalem, right-wing Jewish activists, accompanied by MK Moshe Feiglin, tour Haram al-Sharif with Israeli security forces escorting them. Israeli police close the main gates into the area while the group is inside. They also bar access to all women and men under 50 years of age. Separately, leader of the messianic Temple Mount movement Yehuda Glick tours Haram al-Sharif with a group of settlers. (MNA 8/17; PCHR 8/21)

The Palestinian delegation and the Israeli negotiators return to Cairo to restart talks on extending the current 5-day cease-fire, which is set to expire on 8/18. Upon landing at Cairo International Airport, an anonymous Palestinian negotiator says that his side is “less optimistic than we were earlier” about reaching a deal in time and that the final point of contention is Hamas insistence that Israel agree to lift the blockade on Gaza before the talks conclude. The parties meet for 9 hours of negotiations. Meanwhile, at the start of a cabinet meeting, Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu says that he has given the Israeli negotiators a “very clear mandate to stand firmly on Israel’s security needs.” Hamas spokesperson Sami Abu Zuhri responds, saying that lifting the blockade on Gaza would be the only way to ensure Israeli security. U.S. Pres. Barack Obama calls several foreign leaders to discuss the Israeli assault on Gaza, among other things. (AJ, AP, BBC, JP, MNA 8/17; MNA 8/18)

In a goodwill gesture aimed at facilitating the negotiations in Cairo, Israeli authorities lift the fishing ban on Gaza, allowing Palestinian fishermen to sail 3 naut. mi. offshore. (HA 8/17)

The Qatari Comm. for Rebuilding the Gaza Strip says that it will double the previously reported donation to each Palestinian family whose home was destroyed, following up on the 8/16 announcement. (JP 8/17)

In the Gaza Strip, Palestinians continue to undertake emergency relief efforts, uncovering many bodies of people killed earlier during Israel’s Operation Protective Edge (OPE), while many more Palestinians succumb to injuries. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and the armed Palestinian groups continue to hold to the 5-day cease-fire. In the West Bank, a group of Israeli settlers in Hebron throws stones at Palestinian houses on al-Shuhada Street and IDF troops arrest 1 Palestinian in the clashes that follow. The IDF conducts raids on several houses in Dayr Istya, and patrols in 2 villages n. of Jenin. During the day, the IDF conducts 13 other incursions into various areas of the West Bank. (MNA 8/16; PCHR 8/21)

There are no talks held today between Egyptian mediators, the Palestinian delegation, and Israeli negotiators. Hamas head of foreign affairs Usama Hamdan responds to the Egyptian proposal of 8/15, saying Israel must accept the demands of the Palestinian people or face a long war, and that the proposal was, therefore, insufficient. Head of the Palestinian delegation and senior Fatah official Azzam al-Ahmad says that he is quietly optimistic that a long-term agreement can be reached before the 5-day cease-fire expires on 8/18. Meanwhile, in a televised speech from Ramallah, Palestinian Authority (PA) Pres. Mahmud Abbas says that the “goal is to stop the fighting and to stick to the Egyptian initiative, and no other,” in an implicit reference to efforts by Qatar and Turkey to serve as alternative diplomatic channels. PLO chief negotiator Saeb Erakat meets with Hamas political office chief Khalid Mishal and urges him to continue talks with Israel based on the Egyptian initiative. The pair also reportedly discuss the possibility of Palestine becoming a mbr. of the International Criminal Court (ICC). (AFP, HA, MNA, REU 8/16)

In Tel Aviv, thousands of demonstrators gather in Rabin Square to protest the ongoing assault on Gaza with the slogan “Changing direction: toward peace, away from war.” Counterprotesters also congregate in Rabin Square, but Israeli police keep the groups separate. (HA, JP 8/16)

Meanwhile, the Qatari govt. announces that it will donate $1,000 to each Palestinian family whose home has been destroyed during the Israeli assault, of which there are reportedly 797. The funds will be disbursed through the Qatari Comm. for Rebuilding the Gaza Strip. (JP 8/17)

The Obama admin. invites Palestinian officials to Washington to discuss conditions under which they might drop their UN statehood bid. The PA says chief negotiator Saeb Erakat and Abbas spokesman Nabil Abu Rudeina will head to Washington soon. (JP 8/4)

As a gesture to the PA to mark the start of Ramadan, Israel releases 200 Palestinian prisoners who were set to complete their sentences soon, including senior Hamas official Shaykh Hassan Yousef (arrested in 2006 and set for release in 9/2011). At the same time, however, Israel’s Interior Min. gives final approval for the construction of 930 new settlement housing units in East Jerusalem’s Har Homa/Jabal Abu Ghunaym. Meanwhile, the PA orders its security forces to prevent violence after the UN vote in 9/2011 and informs Israel of its intention to keep the peace and avoid confrontation. In Gaza, unidentified Palestinians fire 2 Qassam rockets into Israel, causing no damage or injuries. The IDF retaliates late at night with 2 artillery shells and 7 air strikes on 5 Hamas sites in c. and s. Gaza, injuring 2 Hamas mbrs. and killing 500 chicks at a poultry farm. In the West Bank, the IDF patrols in 2 villages nr. Tulkarm, 2 nr. Ramallah, and 1 nr. Jericho; conducts late-night arrest raids, house searches nr. Tulkarm. (AFP, HA, JTA, MNA, WAFA, YA 8/4; PCHR 8/11; OCHA 8/12)

The Israeli human rights group Peace Now issues an 8-mo. assessment of Israel’s temporary settlement construction freeze documenting that: (1) construction of at least 600 housing units in over 60 different settlements has begun during the freeze, with at least 492 of those units being constructed in direct violation of the freeze; (2) some 2,000 housing units started before the freeze was implemented on 11/26/09 are currently under construction; and (3) new construction starts during the freeze constitute approximately half of the normal settlement construction pace. (Peace Now press release 8/2)

Unidentified assailants fire 5–7 modified Grad-type rockets apparently fr. the Egyptian desert toward the Aqaba-Elat resort; 1 rocket lands harmlessly nr. the entrance to the Israeli resort town, 2 land inside Jordan (1 harmlessly, the other striking a taxi outside the InterContinental hotel in Aqaba, killing 1 Jordanian and wounding 3), 2 land in the Red Sea. Israel believes the rockets were all intended to strike Elat and calls Hamas “responsible” for the rocket fire; Hamas denies involvement. (JP 8/2; YT 8/3; WT 8/4; KUNA 8/5; HA 8/6; JPI, OCHA 8/13)

Israel’s Jerusalem municipal authority approves construction of 40 settlement housing units in Pisgat Ze’ev settlement in East Jerusalem. In the West Bank, the IDF dismantles and confiscates a Palestinian irrigation network nr. Hebron; patrols in 2 villages nr. Salfit at midday, making no arrests; arrests 3 Palestinian children (ages 13–14) nr. the separation wall nr. Bil‘in; sends undercover units in Jafna village nr. Ramallah late in the evening, raiding 2 Internet cafes and arresting 1 Palestinian; conducts late-night arrest raids, house searches nr. Hebron, Qalqilya. In Gaza, unidentified Palestinians apparently mishandle explosives in a home in Dayr al-Balah, triggering an explosion that injures 58 Palestinians (including 13 children, 9 women) and damages several surrounding homes. (AP 8/3; PCHR 8/5)

The IDF completes the evacuation of Gadid (est. 1982, pop. 350, size 1,600 d., hrs. to evac. 3); halts operations at sundown for the Sabbath, planning to resume on 8/21; starts demolishing homes in Kerem Atzmona; begins digging 8-ft. trench around Gush Katif settlements to prevent Palestinians fr. entering before evacuation is complete. During the day in Gadid, where almost all residents left on 8/17, some 200 disengagement protesters set fires, erect roadblocks to block troops. Palestinian gunmen fire on Gadid, causing no damage or injuries. Also in Gaza, 2 Hamas mbrs. are injured when a roadside bomb they are planting explodes prematurely. In the West Bank, disengagement protesters set fire to a gas station outside Sanur. Jewish settlers take over 2 Palestinian homes nr. Homesh as lookout posts to help nonresident settlers infiltrate the IDF closed military zone to protest the disengagement; the IDF ousts them later in the day. A pig’s head, presumably left by disengagement protesters, is found in the Hassan Bek mosque nr. Jaffa. Meanwhile, the IDF occupies a 3-story building under construction nr. Kiryat Arba in Hebron, closes 21 stores attached to the building; conducts patrols in Nablus. Jewish settlers fr. Ramat Yishai in Hebron, throw stones, bottles at Palestinian homes, injuring an 8-yr.-old Palestinian boy. Jewish settlers fr. Sha’ar Hatikva nr. Qalqilya throw stones at nearby Palestinian cars, set fire to agricultural land and several greenhouses. Unidentified gunman fire on the car of West Bank Hamas political leader Shaykh Hasan Yusuf; Yusuf was not in the car, his bodyguards were but are not hurt. (BBC, HA, IDF Radio, ITV, JP 8/19; NYT, WP, WT 8/20; PCHR, PR 8/25)

The IDF makes a failed assassination attempt on Hamas mbr. Khalid Massud, firing missiles at his car as he drives btwn. Gaza City and Jabaliya r.c.; 1 Palestinian bystander is killed, Massud and 25 bystanders are wounded. The IDF alsosends troops back into Nablus to raid a hospital, arrest and take away 2 AMB mbrs. wounded on 8/22, including 1 who was in intensive care; fires on, shells Palestinians in Hebron (wounding 5), Khan Yunis (wounding 2). Some 50 Palestinians, including Waqf official Mustafa Abu Zahara, stage a sit-down prayer vigil blocking Israeli police fr. leading a group of Jewish tourists fr. entering the Temple Mount/Haram al-Sharif; Abu Zahara, several others are arrested. (HA, JP 8/26; HA, MM, NYT, WP, WT 8/27; PCHR 8/28)

The IDF assassinates wheelchair-bound senior Hamas mbr. Nasir Jarrar (who had lost an arm, 2 legs in 2 previous assassination attempts in 5/01 and 4/02) in a friend's home in Tubas, firing rockets fr. helicopters at the house, then bulldozing it; 1 Palestinian used as a human shield by the IDF to warn Jarrar to surrender is killed, a 2d Palestinian bystander is wounded; the IDF says its use of a Palestinian as a "messenger"--what it says is a 20-yr.-old policy called the "neighbor procedure"--is not the same as using human shields. The IDF bulldozes 48 dunams of agricultural land btwn. Qarni crossing and Shuhada Junction. (MM, NYT, WP, WT 8/15; NYT, PCHR, WT 8/16; JP 8/18)

Israel arraigns West Bank Fatah cmdr. Marwan Barghouti (arrested by the IDF on 4/15/02) in a Tel Aviv court on charges of being an "arch-terrorist," murdering 26 Israeli civilians in 37 attacks; the indictment says that 16 Palestinians now in Israeli custody, including 2 of Barghouti's top aides will testify against him. (AP, LAW, MM 8/14; NYT, WP, WT 8/15; MM 8/16)

Israel assassinates senior Hamas mbr. Salah al-Din Darwaza, firing 5 antitank missiles at his car as he drives through Nablus. Armed Jewish settlers fr. Morag attack a PSF post, a residential building in Rafah, sparking an exchange of gunfire involving the IDF and PSF that leaves 3 soldiers injured. The IDF bulldozes the PSF post, surrounding agricultural land. In response, Palestinians fire a mortar at Morag, causing no damage. (LAW 7/25; HP, NYT, WP 7/26; JP 8/3)

At the weekly trilateral security comm. mtg., the PA warns that it will not be able to continue the security mtgs. if Israeli assassinations continue. The PA hands Israel a list of 31 Jewish settlers wanted for carrying out attacks on Palestinians, warning that the PA will take action if Israel does not arrest them. (AFP [Internet], NYT 7/25; MM, WJW 7/26; al-Quds 7/26 in WNC 7/27; SA 7/30 in WNC 7/31)

The Israeli cabinet releases a statement saying that "in the absence of agreed-upon changes, the countdown for implementation of the [Wye] agreement will begin on September 1." Arafat welcomes Israel's plan to resume implementation in 9/99, but still does not approve of Barak's plan to draw out the Wye schedule. (CSM, MM, WT 8/9; CSM 8/10)

At the request of Israeli PM Barak and after consulting with Arafat and Asad, Secy. of State Albright postpones her trip to the Middle East, which was to start next wk. (IDF Radio 8/8 in WNC 8/9; MM, WP, WT 8/9; MM, NYT, WP 8/10; WJW 8/12; JP 8/13) (see 8/6)

Shaykh Hamad Bin-Khalifa al-Thani, emir of Qatar, meets with Arafat in Gaza, making him the 1st Gulf leader to visit the occupied territories since the PA was established. The emir is on a regional tour, which will also take him to Lebanon (8/8-9), Algeria (8/9-10), Morocco (8/11). (RL 8/8 in WNC 8/9; al-Quds 8/9, MAP [Rabat], TT 8/11 in WNC 8/13)

In Damascus, the PFLP briefs 8 Syrian-based opposition groups on its reconciliation talks with Arafat in Cairo 8/1-2; some groups recommend halting contacts with the PFLP if it holds further mtgs. Fatah, the PA. DFLP is not invited to the briefing; it has been banned fr. opposition mtgs. since Nayif Hawatimah shook hands with Israeli pres. Weizman at King Hussein's funeral in 2/99. (AFP, MBC, 8/9 in WNC 8/10) (see 8/6)

IDF lifts curfew on Palestinians in the Israeli-controlled sector of Hebron. (LAW 8/8) (see 8/4)

PA announces that it has arrested 3 Hamas leaders in Gaza. Israel has pressured the PA to crack down on Hamas since the Qassam Brigades claimed responsibility for shooting 2 Jewish settlers in Hebron on 8/3. (WP 8/9) (see 8/7)

In the Israeli-controlled section of Hebron, unidentified assailants shoot, wound 2 Jewish settlers. (MM, NYT, WP, WT 8/4; JP 8/13)

PA police release Hamas spokesman `Abd al-Aziz Rantisi, who has been detained without charge for 15 mos. (AFP 8/3 in WNC 8/5) (see 4/9/98)

Iraqi pres. Saddam Hussein gives his youngest son, Qusay, legal authority to act as pres. in an emergency. (NYT, WP 8/4; GIU 8/25)

In Rabat, Malcolm Hoenlein, exec. vice-chmn. of the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations (CPMAJO), meets with King Muhammad, who says that Morocco hopes to speed normalization with Israel now that the peace process is getting back on track. (JP 8/13)

In Washington, PM Barak holds 2d round of talks with Pres. Clinton, who announces plans to expedite approval of the $1.9 b. in additional economic aid that the U.S. promised Israel, the PA, Jordan after Wye talks. Congress has refused to approve the disbursements since fmr. PM Netanyahu suspended Wye implementation on 12/2/98. Barak, Clinton also agree to create a Strategic Policy Planning Group composed of senior Israeli, U.S. security officials that would report to them every 4 mos. (CSM, GIU, MM 7/19; MENA, Petra-JNA 7/19 in WNC 7/20; al-Ayyam 7/19 in WNC 7/21; MM, NYT, WP, WT 7/20; WJW 7/22; JP, MEI 7/30)

In Damascus, Spanish PM José María Aznar discusses peace process with Pres. Asad; announces that Spain will loan Syria $55 m. in development aid, marking the 1st loan by an EU state to Damascus. (ABC [Madrid], SATN 7/19 in WNC 7/20; MBC 7/20 in WNC 7/21; MM, WP 7/21)

Damascus-based PLO opposition groups report that Syrian VP `Abd al-Hailm Khaddam has met with the heads of Fatah Uprising, PFLP, PFLP-General Command (PFLP-GC), Saiqa to ask them to end their armed struggle against Israel, switch focus to political activities. Unnamed Syrian officials confirm the report, say no discussion has been held with Hamas, Hizballah, Islamic Jihad. (JT 7/19 in WNC 7/20; al-Ayyam, al-Manar 7/19, SA 7/24 in WNC 7/26; CSM, MM, NYT, WT 7/20; SA 7/20 in WNC 7/21; WT 7/21; QA, RMC, SA 7/21 in WNC 7/22; MM, WJW, WT 7/22; MEI 7/30; NYT 8/8) (see 6/16)

DFLP delegation led by Taysir Khalid meets with Fatah delegation headed by Arafat to discuss a reconciliation agmt. that would bring the DFLP into the final status negotiating process. (al-Ayyam 7/21 in WNC 7/26)

For the 1st time, 4 non-Jews are appointed to the Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Comm.: Israeli Arab MKs Hashem Mahameed (United Arab List) and Nawaf Massalha (One Israel), Druze MKs Salah Tarif (One Israel) and Ayoub Kara (Likud). Likud calls the appointments a security risk. (NYT, WT 7/20; MM 7/21, 7/22; JP 7/23; MA 7/23 in WNC 7/28; MM 7/29; JP 8/13)

IDF begins work on relocating its Jinin headquarters in anticipation of the resumption of FRD fr. the West Bank. (NYT 7/20)

Israel's new internal security M Ben-Ami says Israel will allow Orient House to remain open, after finding that the PLO has ceased conducting political activity fr. the building. (NYT 7/20; WP 7/22) (see 5/11, 6/11)

Israel's Justice M Beilin says that he plans to cancel the legal basis for holding Lebanese detainees without charge or trial. Beilin also says that he will work toward ending administrative detention for Palestinians. (WP 7/20, 7/22)

A roadside bomb explodes in s. Lebanon, killing 1 SLA mbr. (VOL 7/19 in WNC 7/20)

In Washington, U.S. Pres. Bill Clinton testifies before a grand jury on his relationship with White House intern Monica Lewinsky. In a televised address afterward he admits having an affair; misleading the special prosecutor, the public. (MM 8/17; MM, NYT, WP, WT 8/18; IDF Radio 8/18 in WNC 8/19; MM 8/19; al-Thawra 8/19 in WNC 8/24)

PA lifts curfew on Jericho, saying that escaped prisoner, Hamas mbr. Imad Awadallah, is no longer in the area. (WP 8/18; ITV 8/19 in WNC 8/21; LAW 8/21; HA [Internet] 8/21; JP 8/22) (see 8/15)

U.S. special envoy Ross continues shuttling btwn. Netanyahu, Arafat; says that as the 1st step toward salvaging the peace talks, Israel, the PA must work together to determine the identity of the 2 men responsible for the 7/30 bombings; says some progress has been made toward this end. In the evening, U.S., PA, Israeli security officials meet. (MM 8/11; ITV 8/11 in WNC 8/12; CSM, NYT, WP 8/12; MA 8/12 in WNC 8/12; JP 8/16)

During a brief confrontation, Palestinian youths angry over the closure clash with IDF troops at a checkpoint in Ramallah. (NYT 8/12)

1 Israeli injured in the 7/30 bombing dies, bringing death toll to 16, including the 2 bombers. (WP 8/12)

In Jerusalem, 150 Conservative, Reform Jewish men, women attempt to pray together at the Western Wall. They are jeered by Orthodox Jews, who call them "terrorists," "Hamas," "Christians"; are forcibly removed fr. the wall by Israeli police. (NYT 8/12)

Israel encourages Germany to take action against Hamas supporters suspected of operating in Berlin, Aachen. Israel charges that some 70 Hamas supporters have been fundraising in Germany since 1994. (Der Spiegel 8/11 in WNC 8/12)

Fmr. Jordanian FMin. official Muhammad al-Khalili announces the founding of Voice of Peace, a new newspaper to be published in Arabic, English, Hebrew. Israeli authors will be among the contributors. (al-Quds 8/11 in WNC 8/14)

IDF prevents an Amnesty International team fr. visiting al-Khiyam prison in s. Lebanon. (RL, VOL 8/11 in WNC 8/12)

After 40 hrs. of talks, ILMG recesses without taking a decision, plans to resume discussions 8/12. (RL 8/12 in WNC 8/13)

2 suicide bombers dressed as ultra-Orthodox Jews detonate explosives in a crowded market in Jerusalem, killing 13 Israelis, wounding more than 170 Israelis, Palestinians. IDF immediately seals the West Bank, Gaza, preventing even town-to-town movement; suspends recognition of Palestinian passports; sends troops to seal the PA-controlled cities. A letter signed by Hamas's military wing, Izzeddin al-Qassam Brigades, takes responsibility, but Israeli security question its authenticity, Hamas political leader `Abd al-Aziz Rantisi says Hamas was not involved. (MM 7/30; IDF Radio, ITV, RE 7/30 in WNC 7/31; IDF Radio, ITV, JTV 7/30, MA, RAI Uno Television [Rome], RE, YA 7/31 in WNC 8/1; CSM, NYT, WP, WT 7/31; ITV 7/31 in WNC 8/6; CSM, WT 8/1; AFP, MAP [Rabat], VOA 8/1 in WNC 8/4; NYT 8/3; al-Dustur, al-Majd 8/4 in WNC 8/7; CSM 8/5; WJW 8/7; MEI, PR 8/8; JP 8/9; CSM 8/11)

In the wake of the bombings, PM Netanyahu, FM Levy phone Secy. of State Albright, demand that the U.S. put pressure Arafat. The Israeli cabinet suspends all contacts with the PA until Arafat acts against Islamists "with determination," destroys their infrastructure. However, 1 mtg. btwn. Israeli, PA security officials is held. Over night, an IDF helicopter hovers over Arafat's Gaza headquarters, an Israeli warplane circles the Gaza Strip. (MM 7/30; ITV 7/30 in WNC 7/31; MM, NYT, WP, WT 7/31; YA 7/31 in WNC 8/4; WT 8/1)

As a result of the bombings, U.S. special envoy Ross cancels plans to leave today for the Middle East to meet with Arafat, Netanyahu. (MM, WT 7/30; NYT, WP, WT 7/31)

In Amman, King Hussein receives Israeli Knesset "Coalition Bloc for Peace," comprising Gesher, Third Way, Yisra'el B'Aliya, Shas MKs and the dir. of Israel's International Center of Peace in the Middle East. (JTV 7/30 in WNC 7/31)

State Dept. lifts the 12-yr.-old ban forbidding Americans to travel to Lebanon after that government agrees to take new steps to improve security at various locations, pledges to ratify an international convention against hostage-taking. The decision does not include lifting the ban on flights by Lebanese carriers to the U.S. or by U.S. carriers to Lebanon. (MM, WP 7/30; RL, RMC 7/30 in WNC 7/31; WT 7/31; al-Safir 7/31 in WNC 8/1; RL 8/4 in WNC 8/5; WT 8/6; al-Safir 8/6 in WNC 8/8; MEI 8/8)

Saudi Arabian dissident Sayigh backs out of a plea agmt. with the FBI to cooperate in the al-Khobar bombing case; says that he is innocent of any wrongdoing; was pressured by Canadian immigration officials to make statements on the bombing to avoid being deported to Saudi Arabia, where he faces execution. (NYT, WT 7/31) (see 6/30)

ILMG opens 2-day mtg. to discuss 1 Lebanese, 3 Israeli complaints. (VOL 7/30, RL 7/31 in WNC 8/1)

UN extends the UNIFIL mandate for 6 mos. (RL 7/30 in WNC 8/1)

Israeli naval forces detain 5 Lebanese fishermen off the coast of s. Lebanon, interrogate them before releasing them. (RL 7/29 in WNC 7/30) (see 7/28)

Israeli FM Levy refuses to attend mtgs. with PM Netanyahu in protest over the PM's exclusion of FMin. officials fr. the Israeli delegation to Jordan 8/5; tendency to ignore the FMin.; failure to brief the FMin. on mtgs. (particularly those made by Gold) with foreign leaders (incl. an alleged secret overture to Morocco made recently by Gold). (MM 8/7; JP 8/7 in FBIS 8/7; ITV 8/7 in FBIS 8/8; MM, WT 8/8; NYT 8/9; WP 8/10)

Israeli DM Mordechai complains about how PM Netanyahu is conducting contacts with the PA, deliberations on Hebron; says Netanyahu is using private advisers, such as Gold, Cabinet Secy. Dani Nave, too much and the DMin. too little. (ITV 8/7 in FBIS 8/8)

Arafat orders release of 120 of Hamas mbrs. to allay tensions following protests in Nablus (8/1), Tulkarm (8/2). (QY 8/7 in FBIS 8/8; NYT 8/25) (see 8/3)

EA, PLO Exec. Comm. hold weekly session in Jericho. (VOP 8/2 in FBIS 8/2; VOP 8/3 in FBIS 8/5)

Israeli cabinet unanimously decides to lift building restrictions in Jewish settlements but is vague about how much building it will permit. PA protests. Abolishing the ban on new construction also does away with the special ministerial comm. (formed 1/22/95) that had reviewed building requests, leaving approval of new construction to the DM alone. (MM 8/2; QY 8/2 in FBIS 8/2; ITV 8/2 in FBIS 8/5; VOP 8/2, 8/3 in FBIS 8/6; NYT, WT 8/3; CSM 8/5; WJW 8/8; PR 8/9; JP 8/10)

Netanyahu adviser Gold makes emergency trip to Washington to brief Secy. of State Christopher, special envoy Ross on the new settlement policy. (WT 8/3; ITV 8/3 in FBIS 8/5; WJW 8/8)

Nr. Tulkarm, PSF opens fire on 100s of Palestinian protesters who try to storm a West Bank jail, killing 1, wounding 30. Several inmates escape in the melee but surrender hrs. later. PA police arrest 200, put curfew on Tulkarm, say Hamas mbrs. hiding in the crowd are responsible for the shooting (though jail officials deny this). IDF seals the town, allowing no one in or out. (MM 8/2; AFP, QY, VOP 8/2 in FBIS 8/5; WT 8/3; CSM, NYT 8/5; VOA 8/5 in FBIS 8/5; MM 8/15) (see 7/11)

Fmr. Israeli negotiator and Peres aide Yossi Beilin confirms Hirschfeld's 7/14 report. PA confirms Beilin's statement. (MM 7/31; QY 7/31 in FBIS 7/31; CSM, NYT, WT 8/1; QY 7/31, JP 8/1 in FBIS 8/1; CSM 8/2; WT 8/7; PR 8/9; JP 8/10)

Arafat says PA has reached agmt. with Israel for release of Hamas spiritual leader Shaykh Ahmad Yasin, is awaiting implementation. (QY 7/31 in FBIS 8/1)

Palestinian prisoner Mahmud Jumayil dies, becoming the 7th to die in PA custody. In Bethlehem at its weekly session, PC sets up comm. to investigate the death; Arafat says 3 officers already have been detained. (VOP 8/1 in FBIS 8/1; VOP 8/1 in FBIS 8/2; MM, NYT, WT 8/2; Houston Chronicle 8/5; PR 8/9; MEI 8/16; WP 8/20) (see 7/30)

CIA tells Congress's Select Comm. on Intelligence that 6 countries (China, Cuba, France, Iran, Israel, Russia) are involved in industrial espionage against the U.S. Israel denies the charge. (ITV 7/31 in FBIS 8/1; WP 8/16)

Hizballah attacks IDF, SLA position in s. Lebanon. IDF, SLA return fire, killing 1 Hizballah mbr. (JP 8/1 in FBIS 8/1; VOL 8/1 in FBIS 8/2)

PC weekly session opens 1 day early. (RMC 7/30, VOP 7/31 in FBIS 7/31; PR 8/2; SA 8/2 in FBIS 8/2; PR 8/9; JP 8/10)

Palestinian prisoner in PA custody, Mahmud Jumayil, is left brain dead, with skull fractures and burn marks, after alleged torture by PA coastal police at Jneid prison nr. Nablus. Another Palestinian jailed with Jumayil is missing. (NYT, WT 7/31; JP 8/1 in FBIS 8/1; CSM, MM, PR 8/2; Houston Chronicle 8/5; PR 8/9; MEI 8/16; WP 8/20)

Acting on information provided by the PSF on Arafat's orders, IDF finds nr. Tel Aviv the remains of a soldier kidnapped, killed 7 yrs. ago by Hamas. (ITV, QY 7/30 in FBIS 7/31; MM, NYT, WP, WT 7/31; QY 7/31 in FBIS 8/1)

In s. Israel, bedouin fr. the Tarabin al-Sana tribe, protesting the confiscation of their land for the expansion of the Jewish town of Omer, attack Israeli police with stones, slingshots, wounding 39 officers. 37 bedouin are arrested. (WT 7/31; PR 8/2)

PC mbr. Zaki is rearrested. (VOP 7/30 in FBIS 7/31; VOP 8/1 in FBIS 8/1) (see 6/25)

In Frankfurt, 2 Palestinian refugees fr. s. Lebanon turn themselves in to German authorities, say they were involved in the Iberia hijacking 7/26, ask for political asylum. (NYT 7/31)

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)

In Copenhagen, Syrian FM Shara` discusses peace process, Syrian-EU relations with Danish PM Poul Rasmussen, FM Niels Petersen, other parliamentary, FMin. officials. (SANA 8/24 in FBIS 8/25)

In light of Hamas's claim of responsibility for 7/24, 8/21 attacks, PA halts talks with the group about its participation in elections. (WT 8/25)

Throughout Jerusalem, 1000s of right-wing Jewish protesters calling for PM Rabin's resignation clash with Israeli police. 3 police, 3 demonstrators are injured, 14 arrested. (ITV 8/24 in FBIS 8/25; JP 9/2)

PA police arrest `Abd al-Majid Dudin, Rashid Khatib after the pair flees to Jericho to evade IDF troops intent on arresting them as Hamas attackers. IDF demands they be returned to Israel; PA refuses. (WT 8/27; CSM 8/28; JP 9/2)

Islamic National Path Movement, a newly formed Hamas breakaway group which accepts the DOP as a fait accompli, calls to Hamas to end attacks, give the PA a chance. The party is the 17th to be formed this yr. (JP 8/24 in FBIS 8/24)

1 IDF soldier is wounded, 3 Hizballah mbrs. killed in IDF attack on Hizballah base in s. Lebanon. (QY 8/25 in FBIS 8/28)

In Gaza, Arafat meets with German Economics M Carl-Dieter Spranger meets with Arafat in Gaza, Israeli Finance M Avraham Shohat in Jerusalem regarding economic aid. (VOP 8/22 in FBIS 8/23; JP 8/22, QY 8/25 in FBIS 8/25; Handelsblatt [Duesseldorf] 9/14 in FBIS 9/15)

U.S. Asst. Secy. of State Pelletreau makes 2d visit to Jordan in less than 1 wk., briefs King Hussein on talks with Saudi Arabia's King Fahd, Kuwaiti officials; leaves for Washington. (AFP 8/22 in FBIS 8/22; JT 8/23 in FBIS 8/24)

Based on information received fr. `Abd al-Nasir Issa, a wanted Hamas mbr. arrested 8/19, Shin Bet uncovers "bomb-making factory" in West Bank, arrests 29 Hamas suspects, charges Issa as "mastermind" of 7/24, 8/21 bombings. Shin Bet says Issa confessed within hours of the 8/21 attack, after agents were permitted to use "exaggerated physical force" during interrogation. In hunt for other Hamas mbrs, Israel seals off Jericho, closes Allenby bridge crossing. (QY 8/23, 8/24 in FBIS 8/24; CSM, MM, NYT, WP, WT 8/24; MM 8/25; WT 8/29; WJW 8/31; JP 9/9)

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

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

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

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

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

Jordanian FM `Abd al-Karim Kabariti returns from 3-day visit to Saudi Arabia, reports a "new phase" of warmer Saudi-Jordanian relations is at hand. (Al-Ra`y 8/18 in FBIS 8/22)

In East Jerusalem, Israeli police without warrants enter, search, photograph Land and Water Establishment (LAWE), Jerusalem Media and Communications Center, Palestinian Hydrology Group, PECDAR; question them on their relationship to the PA. (LAWE press release 8/17; QY 8/17 in FBIS 8/17; VOP 8/17 in FBIS 8/18) (see 8/14)

In Hebron, a 2-day mtg. on the city's future attended by 200 Islamist, nationalist figures ends. Parties call for evacuation of settlers, Palestinian sovereignty over the city. (QY, VOP 8/16, VOP 8/17 in FBIS 8/17)

Peace Now survey shows that 32% of settlers would leave the o.t. for compensation; 26% would stay under any conditions. (JP 9/9; JP 8/31 in FBIS 9/1)

IDF extends Gaza closure to 8/20 so PA can continue hunt for wanted Hamas man, Wa'il Nasir. (MM 8/17; QY 8/17 in FBIS 8/18)

PA cabinet approves draft interim agmt. with Israel. (CSM 8/17; JP 8/26) (see 8/11)

In Gaza, Egypt-Israel-Jordan-PA technical comm. on refugees opens 2-day mtg. on 1967 displaced persons. (HA 8/16 in FBIS 8/16; QY 8/16 in FBIS 8/17)

In Damascus, PLO's Faruq al-Qaddumi begins 3 days of mtgs. with Syrian officials (incl. FM Faruq al-Shara`), Palestinian opposition leaders fr. DFLP (Nayif Hawatmeh), Fatah (Hani al-Hassan), Hamas (Abu-Muhammad Mustafa), PFLP (George Habash), PFLP-GC, Saiqa; briefs them on his blueprint for political change, discusses rejuvenating the PLO, rallying the PA's opposition in light of the 8/11 agmt. (SARR 8/16 in FBIS 8/17; MM 8/17; Al-Hayat 8/17 in FBIS 8/18; MM 8/18 Al-Hayat 8/18, 8/20 in FBIS 8/25; MM 8/22)

Swedish Dep. FM Mona Sahlin postpones return visit to Israel after Israel again refuses her request to meet with Palestinians in Orient House. (JP 8/26; WT 8/30) (see 5/15)

IDF solider is court-martialed, jailed for refusing to evict Jewish settlers fr. illegal West Bank camp. (QY 8/16 in FBIS 8/16)

Israeli Atty. Gen. Mikhael Ben-Ya'ir approves regulation giving responsibility for security inside settlements to Israeli police only, leaving IDF to handle security around settlements and intervene inside only in emergencies. (MA 8/16 in FBIS 8/16) (see 8/6)

Special Israeli ministerial comm. (led by PM Yitzhak Rabin, Police M Moshe Shahal) overrides the orders of Atty. Gen. Ben-Ya'ir, Justice M David Liba'i, extends Shin Bet's authority to use physical force on Palestinian suspects during interrogation for 2 mos. (HA 8/16 in FBIS 8/17; NYT 8/17; JP 8/19, 8/26)

2 Israeli historians announce findings that Israeli troops carried out several mass killings in the Sinai in 1967 in which about 1,000 Egyptian prisoners were killed. (WP, WT 8/18; WP, WT 8/19; NYT, WT 8/21; JP 8/26)

In Gaza, PA arrests 4 Hamas mbrs on charge of plotting an attack inside Israel. IDF extends closure of o.t. begun 8/9 to 8/18. (QY 8/16, IDF Radio 8/17 in FBIS 8/17; MA 8/18 in IL 8/18)

Under new media law (see 7/18), PA closes Hamas's al-Watan and an Islamic Jihad's al-Istiqlal for criticizing Arafat, printing material "against the Palestinian Authority" that harms the PA's relations with Arab states, leaking photo of Arafat's baby to the French press. (AFP 8/6 in FBIS 8/7; MM, WT 8/7; PR 8/11)

In Gaza, Arafat receives Israeli Arab Front delegation, discusses peace process, future of Israeli settlements. Front voices support for Arafat, PA. (VOP 8/6 in FBIS 8/8)

PM Rabin, Police M Shahal, Justice M Liba'i, Atty. Gen. Ben-Ya'ir, reps of the police, IDF, Shin Bet meet, decide police only will be used to handle protesting settlers; IDF will be called in as needed. (MM 8/7; MA 8/7 in FBIS 8/7; MA 8/16 in FBIS 8/16)

Arab League passes resolution condemning Israel's 8/2 decision on Temple Mount/al-Aqsa mosque. (MENA 8/6 in FBIS 8/8)

Israeli police open Temple Mount/al-Aqsa courtyard to Jews but then close site to all after sensing tensions with Palestinians. 100s of Jews overrun police barriers, try to force their way in, clash with police and Palestinians. Area will be closed until 8/7. (QY 8/6 in FBIS 8/7; CSM, WP 8/7; HA 8/7 in IL 8/7; PR 8/11; JP 8/12) (see 8/2)

In Ramallah, Fatah, Peace Now agree to wage joint media campaign to promote the peace process. (Davar 8/6 in FBIS 8/8)

Several mbrs of the House, headed by Rep. Nick Rahall, fly to Lebanon in effort to end U.S. travel ban. (WT 8/4)

In Gaza, PA Planning M Shaath, U.S. Amb. to Israel Indyk sign agmt. whereby USAID will give the PA $11 m. for first stage of a 4-yr., $40-m. waste water project. (VOP 7/28 in FBIS 7/28; PR 8/4; JP 8/5)

Fatah Central Comm. meets in Gaza, discusses PA negotiations with Israel, criticizes Arafat for trying to reclaim parts of Golan. (SA, VOP 7/27 in FBIS 7/28) (see 7/24)

In Nazareth, Israeli police raid office of Islamic Aid Comm., confiscate material allegedly showing comm. transfers money fr. U.S. to families of Hamas deportees. (QY 7/27 in FBIS 7/28; MM 7/28)