The Palestine Chronology

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers with military escort harassed students on their way to school in al-Lubban ash-Sharqiya, preventing some from reaching the school. Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinians and Israeli activists protesting a visit by Israeli president Isaac Herzog to Hebron (see below). Israeli forces also demolished water pipelines supplying Atuf with water. Elsewhere, Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in Ramallah, injuring 1 with a rubber-coated bullet. 3 Palestinians were arrested, including 2 during late-night raids in Kaubar and al-Arroub refugee camp, and 1 near al-Jaba‘. In East Jerusalem, 1 Palestinian was arrested during a house raid in Isawiya. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire at agricultural lands east of Dayr al-Balah; no injuries were reported. Off the coast of Gaza, Israeli naval forces opened fire at Palestinian fishermen northwest of Khan Yunis; no injuries were reported. (AP, HA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 11/28; PCHR 12/2)

President Herzog visited Hebron for a Hanukkah ceremony in al-Ibrahimi Mosque, drawing condemnation and protest from Palestinians and Israeli left-wing activists. The PA foreign ministry said that President Herzog was breaking international law and “embracing the settlement enterprise.” The religious advisor to PA president Mahmoud Abbas, Mahmoud Habbash, compared Herzog’s participation in the ceremony with that of Ariel Sharon visiting the Haram al-Sharif compound in 2000. The OIC, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and Arab League also issued statements of condemnations criticizing the visit. (HA, MEE 11/26; AP, HA, WAFA, WAFA 11/28; +972, MEMO, MEMO, WAFA 11/29; ALM, MEMO 11/30)

The Israeli high court of justice denied Palestinian appeals against demolitions of 58 homes in Wadi Yasoul in Silwan, which would lead to the displacement of 725 Palestinians. (HA 11/28; WAFA 11/29; PCHR 12/2)

1 Palestinian prisoner held on administrative detention ended his hunger strike after Israel set a date for his release. The man had been hunger-striking for 49 days and was admitted to a prison hospital on 11/24 as his condition deteriorated. (WAFA 11/28)

President Abbas extended the COVID-19-related state of emergency for another 30 days. The state of emergency has been in effect since March 2020, when the pandemic hit Palestine. (WAFA 11/28)

Israel’s and the UK’s foreign ministers Yair Lapid and Liz Truss wrote an article in the Telegraph, saying the 2 countries will work together in preventing Iran from getting nuclear weapons. Foreign Minister Lapid was in London meeting UK officials before heading to France for meetings on 11/29. The article was published 1 day before talks began in Vienna to revamp efforts to reenter a new Iran nuclear agreement. (DT, GDN, REU 11/28; AJ, DT, HA, JP, TOI 11/29)

Japan donated $10 million to the PA in support of its budget and Cyprus donated $113,000 to the UNRWA. (WAFA, WAFA 11/28; MEMO 11/29)

In the Gaza Strip, Israeli forces open fire on Palestinians close to the border fence nr. Dayr al-Balah, wounding 1. Off the coast nr. Bayt Lahiya, Israeli naval vessels open fire on Palestinian fishermen, causing no damage or injuries. In the West Bank, the IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in Bethlehem and 1 nearby village and Aida r.c., 2 villages nr. Hebron and 1 village each nr. Ramallah and Salfit at night; patrols in 2 villages nr. Hebron at night. In Jerusalem, a Palestinian stabs an Israeli man nr. the Damascus Gate of the Old City, wounding him. (HA, MNA 1/11; PCHR 1/16)

Former Israeli PM Ariel Sharon dies in Tel Hashomer hospital nr. Tel Aviv, aged 85, following 8 years in a coma. Sharon suffered a stroke in 1/2006 and never regained consciousness. U.S. Pres. Obama praises Sharon’s dedication to his country and his “unshakable commitment” to Israel’s security. (REU 1/11)

Overnight, the IDF arrests 52 Islamic Jihad mbrs. in the largest raids against the group in the West Bank since 3/05; half of the mbrs. are arrested in Hebron, others in Jenin, Qalqilya, Ramallah. Minutes before Sharon and Abbas hold their 1st mtg. since the 2/8 Sharm al-Shaykh summit to coordinate disengagement, IDF aircraft fires 2 missiles at a group of Islamic Jihad mbrs. in Bayt Lahiya in what Israeli officials say is a failed attempt to assassinate a wanted Islamic Jihad mbr. The Israel FMin. says that “the message was very clear—that Israel cannot accept the fact that Islamic Jihad, Hamas, and the alAqsa Brigades have weapons.” The PA urges Islamic Jihad, the AMB to abide by the cease-fire. Palestinians fire a mortar at a Jewish settlement in s. Gaza, causing no damage or injuries. The IDF also conducts arrest raids, house searches in Nablus, Qalqilya and around Bethlehem, Hebron, Tulkarm. (AFP, HA, JAZ 6/21; VOP 6/21 in WNC 6/21; Daily Star, HA, NYT, PR, WP, WT 6/22; PCHR, WP, WT 6/23; VOI 6/23 in WNC 6/24; QA 6/27 in WNC 6/28; Jordan Times 7/1)

The Knesset Interior Comm. discusses the civilian aspects of the Or Commission’s 9/1/03 report into the 10/00 riots during which 13 Israeli Palestinians were killed by police (see Peace Monitor in JPS 118; Chronology in JPS 130). Fmr. High Court Justice Theodore Or says that the government has done nothing to implement his comm.’s recommendations (particularly for achieving equal rights for Israeli Palestinians), address the issues raised in the report. (YA 6/21)

After further talks btwn. Israeli, PA officials, the IDF turns over security control of Tulkarm, pledges not to target wanted Palestinians fr. Tulkarm. The IDF closes checkpoints into East Jerusalem for several hrs; lifts the curfew on Allar, imposed on 3/18; demolishes a Palestinian home in Bayt Hanina; fires on residential areas of Burqa nr. Nablus, occupies a Palestinian home as an observation post; raids, searches the Youth Development Society in Husan nr. Bethlehem, temporarily detains 4 board mbrs.; bulldozes 2 d. of Waqf land nr. Rachel’s Tomb in Bethlehem to build a parking lot for busses transporting Jewish worshipers to the site; bulldozes 4 d. of agricultural land e. of Hebron to establish a new military post; uproots 16 olive trees w. of Ramallah for construction of the separation wall, turns the trees over to local Palestinians for replanting. (JP 3/21; NYT, WP, WT 3/22; OCHA, PR, WP 3/23; PCHR 3/24)

Israeli PM Ariel Sharon approves the construction of 3,500 new housing units in Ma’ale Adumim to link the Jewish settlement to East Jerusalem; claims the building would not violate the road map because the construction was approved in principle in 1999 and the project is of “strategic importance” to Israel. The PA protests. The U.S. State Dept. refuses to comment. (AP, BBC, REU 3/21; VOP 3/21 in WNC 3/28; JP, MENA, NYT, WP, WT 3/22; CSM, PR 3/23; MM 3/29; MEI 4/1)

The IDF raids Tulkarm r.c., rounding up all inhabitants of 1 section of the camp for questioning, detaining 230 Palestinian men, allowing women and children to go after 10 hrs.; sends APCs into Rafah, shelling residential areas, wounding 3, demolishing 1 Palestinian home and 2 stores, severely damaging 5 homes; demolishes another Palestinian home nr. Hebron; conducts arrest raids, house searches in Anabta nr. Tulkarm, Asira nr. Nablus, Jaba’ nr. Jenin, Kubar nr. Ramallah, Nablus, Qalqilya, Tarqumiyya and Yatta nr. Hebron. Israel completes a section of separation wall cutting off Abu Dis fr. Jerusalem. Palestinians report that the IDF has bulldozed 24 dunams of agricultural land outside Hebron since 1/9, for construction of the wall. (ISM press release 1/12; WT 1/13; PCHR 1/15; WP 2/10)

Sharon makes a statement to the Knesset reiterating his intention to disengage unilaterally fr. the occupied territories if the Palestinians do not make concessions soon. The Knesset endorses Sharon’s statement byavote of 51-39. (AFP 1/12; MM 1/13; PR 1/14)

The IDF begins requiring all visitors to Gaza and the PA-controlled areas of the West Bank (areas A) to obtain prior written permission for travel fr. the Civil Admin. or face the chance that they may be prosecuted, denied reentry into Israel, or deported; allows Palestinian workers in Gaza over age 28 to apply for work visas in Israel (previously workers had to be over age 35). The IDF also ends 4 days of bulldozing nr. Dayr al-Balah, during which 8 Palestinian homes, 12 dunams of land were razed; fires on residential areas nr. Hebron; fires on Palestinian, foreign peace activists staging a nonviolent demonstration against the separation wall nr. Ramallah, injuring 18. Sharon orders the removal of another 2 uninhabited unauthorized settlement outposts; settlers immediately appeal to the High Court. (WP, WT 1/5; MM 1/6; PR 1/7; PCHR 1/9; PR 1/14; PCHR 1/22)

In response to the 9/9 suicide bombings, Sharon’s security cabinet declares Arafat “a complete obstacle” that Israel will “work to remove . . . in a manner, and at a time of its choosing.” In Ramallah, the IDF tightens restrictions on Palestinian movement; occupies the PA Culture Min. building, overlooking Arafat’s headquarters; flies low-level sorties over Arafat’s compound. In response, 1,000s of Palestinians surround Arafat’s headquarters to provide him protection. The IDF also demolishes 16 Palestinian homes in Rafah, 2 in Hebron, 2 in Ramallah; fires on residential areas of Khan Yunis; conducts arrest raids in Hebron. (AFP, HA, MM, REU 9/11; AFP, JP, XIN 9/11 in WNC 9/12; MENA 9/11 in WNC 9/13; MM, NYT, WP, WT 9/12; AFP, ATL, ITAR-TASS, Palestine Satellite Channel Television, QA, al-Quds, VOP, XIN 9/12, AN, ATL, IRNA, MENA, alQuds 9/13, HA, IRNA, JT, MA, MENA, YA 9/14 in WNC 9/16; MM, NYT, WP 9/13; PR 9/17; PCHR 9/18; JPI, MEI 9/26)

The IDF seals the West Bank and Gaza; surrounds, tightens closures on all Palestinian cities; sends additional tanks to the outskirts of Ramallah; conducts arrest raids in Hebron, detaining 17 Palestinians, including relatives of the 8/19 bomber; fires on residential areas of Rafah. Late in the evening, the IDF imposes curfews on, sends tanks and troops into Hebron (raiding, searching 3 mosques), Jenin, Nablus (where residents report hearing helicopters, machine gun fire through most of the night), Tulkarm (where the IDF fatally shoots 1 Palestinian, wounds 7). Israel also opens the Temple Mount/Haram al-Sharif to non-Muslims without agreement of the Waqf; some 150 Jews under police protection visit the site. (HA, REU 8/20; YA 8/20 in WNC 8/22; MM, NYT, PCHR, PM, WP, WT 8/21)

Abbas convenes the PA Executive Authority (EA, or cabinet) to discuss how to respond to the 8/19 suicide bombing; puts 4 recommendations to PA head Yasir Arafat for approval, threatening to resign if he does not accept them all, which he does. (HA 8/20; HA, NYT, WP 8/21; AYM 8/24 in WNC 8/26)

Israeli PM Ariel Sharon convenes his security cabinet, which approves “a series of military steps” against Hamas, Islamic Jihad, which Israel would launch only if the PA fails to take action itself. (HA 8/20; JP, YA 8/20 in WNC 8/22; NYT, WP 8/21; IDF Radio, QA, VOI, YA 8/21 in WNC 8/23)

U.S. Pres. George W. Bush phones Sharon to tell him that Israel has a right to defend itself following the “vicious” 8/19 bombing, reportedly does not urge restraint. U.S. Secy. of State Colin Powell phones Abbas tourge him to take action against Palestinian militant groups immediately. (HA 8/20; WP 8/21; HA 8/24; AYM 8/24 in WNC 8/26)

In the 1^st suicide bombing in Israel since 11/21/02, 2 AMB suicide bombers fr. Nablus detonate devices on parallel streets nr. the Tel Aviv bus station during evening rush hr., killing 22 (14 Israelis, 6 foreign workers, 2 remain unidentified and are suspected to be illegal foreign workers) injuring around 100. (Of note, AMB cells in Gaza, Nablus issue statements claiming the operation, whereas cells in Ramallah disavow responsibility, pledge to continue cease-fire talks.) Sharon convenes his security cabinet, including Netanyahu, Mofaz to discuss how to respond. Soon afterward, IDF helicopters fire 8 missiles at, destroys 3 iron workshops in Gaza City allegedly used as mortar factories, injuring 10 Palestinians; 30 IDF tanks enter Rafah, arrest senior Islamic Jihad mbr. Hassan Abu `Armana, his 2 brothers and demolish their family home. During the day, the IDF raids a house in Jenin, arresting 3 brothers of a wanted Palestinian, informing the family that the 3 would not be released until the wanted man turns himself in; also raids Palestinian homes in East Jerusalem, Kafr Khalil, Qalqilya. An IDF soldier is lightly wounded by a Palestinian sniper firing fr. Khan Yunis. (HA, REU 1/5; MM, NYT, WP, WT 1/6; QA 1/6, ATL, XIN 1/7 in WNC 1/8; MM, WP 1/7; AYM 1/7, AN, JT, al-Nahar 1/8 in WNC 1/9; LAW, PCHR, PR 1/8; WJW 1/9; MEI 1/10; JPI 1/17; MEI 1/24; HA 2/10)

Before dawn, 60 IDF tanks encircle and raid Bureij r.c., Dayr al-Balah, Nussayrat r.c. in Gaza, demolishing 2 workshops, a Palestinian home belonging to a suspected militant. The IDF also bulldozes more than 100 dunams of agricultural land in al-Fukhari nr. Khan Yunis; conducts arrest raids in Asira Shamaliyya. Israeli police announces that 3 wks. ago, they arrested 3 alleged Hamas mbrs. fr. East Jerusalem on charges of planning to poison food at a Jerusalem café. (WP 9/9; LAW, PCHR 9/11; MEI 9/13)

Israel's Interior M Yishai strips the citizenship of Israeli Arab Nihad Abu Kishak, accused of aiding a suicide bomber and membership in Hamas, the 1st time such a measure has been taken against an Israeli accused of a security offense. (HA 9/9; NYT 9/10; LAW, MM 9/11; MEI 9/13; PR 9/18)

In Ramallah, Arafat opens the 1^st full session of the Palestinian Council (PC) since 5/15/02 with an address restating the PA's recognition of Israel, commitment to the peace process, condemnation of suicide bombings, opposition to "all types of terrorism, whether it is state terror or individual terror." (Gazan PC mbrs. attend by video link after Sharon bars 12 fr. traveling to Ramallah for "security reasons," citing their "involvement in terror.") Israel dismisses the statement, saying he did not specifically condemn suicide bombings for harming civilians, did not call for a complete halt to violence. The U.S. say the speech as weak, "we've seen remarks like that before," the Palestinians deserve a better leadership. (AP, HA, MM, WP, WT 9/9; MM, NYT, WP, WT 9/10; AYM, al-Quds 9/10 in WNC 9/11; AP, MM 9/11; MEI 9/13; JT 9/13 in WNC 9/16; MEI 9/27; Globe and Mail 11/12)

The IDF directs live fire at Palestinians crossing into Ramallah at Surda checkpoint just after a curfew had been reimposed without warning, seriously injuring an 18-yr.-old Palestinian girl; conducts arrest raids in Nablus, destroying the 1 Palestinian home; direct shells, heavy machine gun fire at residential areas of Khan Yunis. (LAW 7/8; PCHR 7/10)

Sharon authorizes Peres to reopen high-level meetings (suspended in 3/02) with senior PA officials, excluding Arafat, but bars him fr. discussing political issues. Peres meets with new PA Finance M Fayyad, new Interior M Yahya. (MM, NYT, WP 7/9; XIN 7/9 in WNC 7/10; WT 7/10; SA 7/10 in WNC 7/11; WJW 7/11; AYM 7/12 in WNC 7/16; AFP 7/20, XIN 7/21 in WNC 7/22; HA, NYT, WP 7/21; JP, MM, WT 7/22; WT 7/23)

Bush says that Israel is justified in occupying the West Bank until "security improves." (NYT 7/9; WJW 7/11)

A suicide bomber detonates a device in an unlicensed gambling club in the Rishon Letzion suburb of Tel Aviv, killing 15 Israelis, injuring 57. Hamas's military wing claims responsibility, but the political wing will not confirm. The IDF conducts arrest raids in Tulkarm city, detaining about 40 Palestinians; bulldozes a Palestinian home, fatally shoots a Palestinian boy in Rafah; begins work on Jewish settler bypass roads nr. Khan Yunis, nr. Nablus. In Bethlehem, the siege of the Church of the Nativity continues, with Italy complaining it has not been consulted on the 5/6 agmt. (AFP, AP, CNN, MM 5/7; AFP, ANSA, XIN 5/7 in WNC 5/8; al-Quds 5/7 in WNC 5/9; MM, NYT, WP, WT 5/8; MA, RNE 5/8 in WNC 5/9; MM, WJW 5/9; al-Ra'i 5/9 in WNC 5/10; MM 5/10; AYM 5/12 in WNC 5/15; JP 5/16; MEI 5/17; HA 5/24)

The IDF announces plans to divide the West Bank into 8 isolated zones (Bethlehem, Hebron, Jericho, Jenin, Nablus, Qalqilya, Ramallah, Tulkarm); to impose severe new restrictions on the movement of Palestinians, goods btwn. zones. (UNRWA press release 5/14; al-Quds 5/16 in WNC 5/17; HA, JT [Internet] 5/17; HA 5/18; AYM 5/28 in WNC 5/20; PMC 5/19; HA 5/22; NYT 5/24)

In Washington, Sharon, Bush hold talks on PA reform, barely touch on the idea of a peace conference. They agree that the priority should be halting Palestinian violence, restructuring the PA, unifying the PA security services. Sharon also says that it is "premature" to discuss a Palestinian state, Israel will never agree to withdraw to 1967 lines; suggests Israel will not resume political talks until Arafat has been removed fr. power. Bush say he will send CIA dir. Tenet to the region to help rebuild the PA security forces. Sharon returns to Israel in light of the Rishon Letzion bombing. (AP, CNN, MM 5/7; MENA, al-Quds 5/7 in WNC 5/8; AYM 5/7, MA 5/8 in WNC 5/9; HA, JP [Internet], MM, NYT, WP, WT 5/8; MM, WJW, WP 5/9; QA, al-Ra'i 5/9 in WNC 5/10; MM 5/10; AYM 5/10 in WNC 5/13; JP [Internet] 5/10; JP 5/16)

A female AMB suicide bomber detonates a device at a bus station in Jerusalem, killing 6 Israelis, injuring around 50. In Jenin r.c., eyewitnesses report that IDF bulldozers are burying Palestinian bodies; Israel says it is merely burying the dead to prevent a health crisis; the IDF says it plans to move corpses to a remote "enemy's cemetery" in the Jordan Valley. Sharon's office says the 200 Palestinians in the Church of the Nativity can end their siege by either submitting themselves to trial in an IDF military court or going into exile abroad. The IDF raids the PA Agriculture Min. offices in Ramallah; fatally shoots a Palestinian shopkeeper in Bayt Sahur. In Gaza's Jabaliya r.c., 30,000s Palestinians attend a Hamas rally. (AP, HA, LAW 4/12; NYT, PCHR, WP, WT 4/13; MM 4/16)

In talks with Powell, Sharon refuses to set a timetable for withdrawal fr. PA areas, says he will not hold any political talks as long as violence continues, recommends a Madrid-style peace conference once a cease-fire is in place. (AP, CNN, MM 4/12; NYT, WP, WT 4/13; XIN 4/15 in WNC 4/16; MM 4/16; MENA, al-Quds 4/16 in WNC 4/17; MEI 4/19; al-Quds 4/19 in WNC 4/22)

The IDF pullbacks fr. 22 small West Bank villages but sends forces into Birzeit, Dahariyya, `Ayn Bayt Himla r.c. nr. Ramallah and briefly reenters Tulkarm to make arrests. In Birzeit, troops occupy the main PSF station, begin house-to-house searches. The IDF lifts the curfews on Jenin r.c. (which it says it has quelled), Nablus for several hrs. for the 1st time since 4/3; pulls troops back fr. the old city in Nablus, allowing residents, some journalists and local medical workers to see the extent of devastation for the 1st time. The IDF continues to bar ICRC, UNRWA teams fr. entering the towns. In Jenin r.c., the IDF fatally shoots a 13.-yr.-old boy who gets "too close" to an IDF tank post during the break in curfew; continues to bulldoze buildings. In Nablus, the local hospital says the morgue is filled to capacity; it has had to move in a refrigerated truck to handle overflow. PA officials who reach Ramallah's city hall report that the IDF has ransacked and burned the building, confiscated or destroyed important documents, particularly relating to Palestinian land ownership. In Hebron, a Palestinian suicide bomber reportedly detonates a device nr. an IDF checkpoint, injuring several bystanders. (AFP, AP, WP 4/11; BBC, NYT, WP, WT 4/12)

On arrival in Tel Aviv, Powell is greeted by Sharon, who says the IDF is "not about to leave" Bethlehem, Jenin, Nablus, Ramallah; even when troops pull out, they will surround and seal the cities (as they are doing to Qalqilya, Tulkarm) to ensure there are no "terrorist" attacks. The White House says Bush never expected Israel to halt incursions, withdraw fr. PA areas in "a mere eight days"; says Bush considers Sharon to be a "man of peace." (AP 4/11; NYT, WP, WT 4/12; MEI 4/19)

Israel escalates its offensive against the Palestinians, conducting major attacks on Balata, Jenin r.c., Nablus, Ramallah; entering the villages of Qabatiyya, al-Til. At least 50 Palestinians, 5 IDF soldiers are reported killed during the day. In Gaza, 1 IDF soldier is killed, 4 are wounded in an exchange with Islamic Jihad gunmen reportedly attempting to infiltrate a Jewish settlement; 2 Islamic Jihad mbrs. are also killed. In Bethlehem, the IDF blows up 9 cars in the farmers' market, collapsing the market's roof, causing a fire damaging several nearby shops. The IDF admits it has bulldozed houses in Jenin r.c. to find wanted Palestinians. In Ramallah, the IDF allows the PRCS to deliver food, water, medicine to Arafat and his men still under siege in the compound, which the IDF shells today, injuring 4. The IDF allows the PRCS to remove 1 injured Palestinian fr. the compound, but after IDF TV films the evacuation, soldiers seize the man fr. the ambulance, arrest him. (GS, PMC, PRCS press release, UPMRC 4/6; NYT, WP, WT 4/7; NYT 4/8)

Bush phones Sharon to say that Israel must begin its withdraw fr. Palestinian cities "without delay"; reiterates that Arafat has not earned his trust. Sharon says he will "expedite" his operation but does not guarantee it will be completed by the time Powell arrives. (NYT, WP, WT 4/7)

Israel broadens its offensive, reoccupying Qalqilya, cutting of electricity, water; directing shells, heavy machine gun fire at residential areas; occupying tall buildings as sniper, outlook posts. In Ramallah, the IDF moves building-to-building, rounding up 10s of Palestinian men age 15-45 who have not surrendered, killing at least 9 Palestinians; raids, vandalizes, confiscates files of al-Haq human rights organization, among others; occupies 1 Ramallah hospital, attempts to search a 2d but is blocked by medical workers; declares Ramallah a closed military zone, warning journalists that their press credentials will be revoked if they are found in the city, their bureaus will be fined $15,000 if they "harbor" Palestinians in their offices. The IDF allows 34 foreign peace activists to meet with Arafat in the compound. A Hamas suicide bomber detonates a device in a restaurant in Haifa, killing 15 Israelis, some of them Israeli Arabs. Hrs. later, a 2d Palestinian suicide bomber detonates a device in Efrat settlement, wounding 4 Jewish settlers. Sharon convenes his inner cabinet, which agrees to intensify military operations further. In Hebron, 1,000 Palestinians march to protest Israel's actions. (CNN, GA, Reporters without Borders press release 3/31; IRNA, MA, MENA 3/31 in WNC 4/1; AP, HA, LAW, NYT, WP, WT 4/1; MM 4/2; MEI 4/5)

For the 1st time, the IDF erects portable housing for soldiers in PA-controlled areas of the West Bank nr. Jenin. Israeli police halt a vehicle outside an IDF training base nr. Hadera, Israel. 1 Palestinian flees, is fatally shot by police; the 2d Palestinian detonates an explosive device, killing himself, injuring 3 policemen, 3 bystanders; al-Aqsa Martyrs Brigade (AMB) takes responsibility. Israeli PM Ariel Sharon meets with his cabinet to discuss how to respond; no decision is announced. IDF F-16s shell PA targets in Nablus (hitting a government building, PSF office, apartment building), Ramallah (hitting a PSF office); repeatedly break the sound barrier over Jenin. The IDF also conducts arrest raids in Umm al-Sharayit; demolishes a water network, digs a trench along a main road in Nablus; sets up observation towers with heavy machine gun emplacements, reinforces positions on the western border of Khan Yunis refugee camp (r.c.); tightens closures on Jenin, Nablus, Qalqilya, Ramallah. Jewish settlers attack Palestinian farmers in al-Tuwani, burn at least 200 dunams of wheat. A 3d Palestinian dies of injuries received on 2/16. (HA, HP, JP [Internet], al-Quds [Internet] 2/17; MA 2/18 in WNC 2/19; NYT, WP, WT 2/18)

Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Abdallah announces that he has drafted an initiative to be presented to the Arab League offering full Arab normalization with Israel in exchange for Israel's full withdrawal fr. all the occupied territories captured in 1967. (HA, NYT 2/17; MM 2/18; MENA, QA 2/18 in WNC 2/19; MM, WP, WT 2/19; MM 5/20; AYM 2/20 in WNC 2/25; MM 5/22, 5/25; WP 3/2; MEI 3/8)

In Gaza, the IDF fatally shoots 2 Hamas mbrs. who detonated a roadside bomb nr. a bus carrying Thai laborers to a Jewish settlement, causing no damage or injuries. Nr. Nablus, a Jewish settler, angry over Palestinian youths throwing stones at his car, stops and shoots 1 of the youths at point blank range, killing him. A 4th Palestinian dies of injuries received earlier. Palestinians fire 3 mortars at Gush Katif, causing some damage but no injuries. In Azariyya, the IDF closes the PA Information Min.'s temporary offices (opened after the IDF shut the main offices on 11/21), the al-Quds Open University Student Union office. The IDF also shells residential areas of al-Bireh, Ramallah; conducts arrest raids in Azun, Khan Yunis, Ramallah; detains 10 Palestinians at a Gaza checkpoint. (AP 1/31; BBC, NYT, WT 2/1; LAW, PCHR 2/6)

In an interview with Ma'ariv, Sharon says that he regrets that Israel did not kill Arafat in Beirut in 1982. The State Dept. says that the U.S. does not have "any particular comment" on Sharon's statement. (MA 1/31 in WNC 2/1; BBC, MM, NYT, WP, WT 2/1)

The IDF assassinates senior Hamas mbr. Adli Hamdan (Bakr Hamdan), firing missiles at his car in Khan Yunis, injuring 2 passengers. Another 5 Palestinians are killed in separate incidents, including a PA intelligence officer fatally shot by the IDF in Ramallah. A 6th Palestinian dies of injuries received earlier. In Hebron, the IDF raids, occupies a Palestinian bakery, shooting, wounding, detaining 1 Palestinian. The IDF also conducts arrest sweeps in the Bethlehem area, Tulkarm; occupies a Palestinian home in al-Khadir as an observation post. (LAW, NYT, WP 1/25; PCHR 1/30)

     The U.S. invites Sharon to come to Washington to meet with Bush on 2/7. White House also issues a statement regarding Israel's confinement of Arafat to his office in Ramallah, saying, "The president understands the reason that Israel has taken the action that it takes, and it is up to Chairman Arafat to demonstrate the leadership to combat terrorism." Bush meets with senior national security advisers to reassess U.S. Middle East policy. Some senior admin. officials (including VP Dick Cheney, Defense Secy. Donald Rumsfeld) are reportedly leaning toward sanctioning or severing ties with Arafat, the PA/PLO. (MM, WJW 1/24; AP, CNN, JP [Internet], MM, NYT, WP, WT 1/25; al-Quds 1/26, DUS 1/27 in WNC 1/28; MM 1/28)

Due to severe weather, violence tapers off noticeably, though an Islamic Jihad suicide bomber lightly injures 5 Israelis outside a hotel in Jerusalem. The IDF demolishes 2 Palestinian homes, a water network in Rafah, nr. Morag settlement; directs shells, heavy machine gun fire a residential areas of Jinin, Nablus, Rafah; confiscates Palestinian land in Dayr al-Balah; reinforces positions around Nablus, Qalqilya. In the afternoon, Israel, which had already curtailed operations due to the weather, announces it is halting strikes on PA targets for 12 hrs. to give Arafat a chance to demonstrate he is cracking down on opposition groups; names 36 Palestinians it wants arrested immediately, vowing to resume strikes on the morning of 12/6 unless the PA shows progress. Meanwhile, in a briefing to Likud MKs, Sharon vows to step up Israel's assassination campaign, bans all Palestinian vehicles on interurban West Bank roads, bars Arafat fr. leaving Ramallah, bans VIP passage for PA officials, promises continued attacks on PA military and symbolic targets. Late this evening, the IDF raids the PA Central Bureau of Statistics, vandalizing the building and confiscating computers, financial records, raw survey data (especially on political and social issues), and the names and addresses of survey respondents. Attempting again to implement Arafat's 12/3 arrest order, the PSF takes up positions around the Gaza City home of Hamas's Shaykh Yasin, confiscates his car, cuts his telephone service. In reaction, 100s of Palestinians converge on Yasin's home to challenge the PSF; the sides exchange gunfire leaving 1 Hamas mbr. dead, 2 wounded. A Palestinian dies of injuries received on 11/28. (AP, HA, HP, JP [Internet], LAW, MM 12/5; LPA, XIN 12/5 in WNC 12/6; AFP, MM, NYT, WP, WT 12/6; MM, NYT, WP, WT 12/7; PR 12/12; WP 12/21)

Upon his return fr. the U.S. Sharon meets with his security cabinet, then his full cabinet to discuss how to respond to the 12/1+n2 attacks. The full cabinet votes to declare the PA "an entity that supports terrorism," adds Force 17 (Arafat's "presidential guard") to its list of terrorist groups, authorizes Sharon to escalate military action. FM Shimon Peres, other Labor MKs walk out of the cabinet mtg. in protest but do not formally withdraw fr. the governing coalition. (AP, CNN, HA, MM 12/3; MM, NYT, WP, WT 12/4; MM, WJW 12/6; MEI 12/7; MA 12/7 in WNC 12/12; WP 12/9)

While the cabinet meets, the PSF continues to arrest mbrs. of Hamas and Islamic Jihad, risking confrontations with hostile Palestinian crowds. Arafat also orders the arrest of Hamas spiritual leader Shaykh Ahmad Yasin, but when PSF officers arrive around midnight, crowds of Palestinians force them to retreat. The PSF says it has arrested more than 100 Palestinians since 12/2. Arafat asks Peres for a 4-day grace period, during which he vows he would crack down on opposition groups. Israel refuses, dismissing the arrests as a "show for international consumption." The U.S. says the PA must "root out the infrastructure of the groups that support terrorists." (HA 12/3; NYT, WP, WT 12/4; AKH 12/4 in WNC 12/5; MEI 12/7; MA 12/7 in WNC 12/11; WT 12/10)

Soon after the cabinet mtg., the IDF launches air raids against Arafat's headquarters and other PA sites around Gaza City, destroying the PSF barracks, Arafat's 2 personal helicopters, injuring 12 Palestinians; sends tanks into Gaza airport to bulldoze runways; sends troops into Ramallah to surround the PA's West Bank headquarters, where Arafat is staying. In Jinin, U.S.-supplied F-16s destroy the Palestinian governate building, jail, PSF headquarters. The IDF also fatally shoots 1 Palestinian nr. Jinin; raids Beitunia, attacking several homes and arresting an Arafat adviser, several Islamic Jihad mbrs. In Bethlehem, Fatah mbrs. Rafat al-Bajali and Nidal al-Dirbani, both on Israel's wanted list, are killed in a mysterious explosion thought to be an IDF assassination. The White House spokesman Ari Fleischer says Israel "obviously has the right to defend itself. The president understands that very clearly." (AFP, AP, CNN, HA 12/3; XIN 12/3 in WNC 12/4; MENA 12/3, AN, MA 12/4 in WNC 12/5; HA, HP, NYT, WP, WT 12/4; HP, LAW 12/5; AYM 12/5 in WNC 12/7; AYM 12/6, al-Safir 12/7 in WNC 12/11; MEI 12/7; WJW 12/14; MEI 12/21)

The IDF shoots, kills 1 Palestinian nr. a crossing into Israel. Palestinian gunmen fire on Gilo; the IDF returns fire on Bayt Jala; no casualties are reported. Nr. Nablus, the IDF bulldozes roads, agricultural lands; a Jewish settler intentionally hits a Palestinian with his car, killing him. Jewish settlers fr. Keddumim uproot 150 Palestinian olive trees in Jit; settlers fr. Ofra bulldoze Palestinian land around their settlement. The PSF begins an arrest campaign targeting Islamic Jihad, arresting 7 mbrs., questioning 22 Palestinians affiliated with the group. (PMC 11/28; HP, LAW, NYT, WP, WT 11/29; XIN 12/1 in WNC 12/3)

Special envoys Burns, Zinni meet with Arafat in Ramallah; tour the West Bank with U.S. officials to see refugee camps, the effect of Israel's military siege and settlement construction on Palestinians. Meanwhile, Sharon publicly restates his demand for 7 days of complete Palestinian quiet before Israel would take steps to implement the Tenet plan. (MM 11/28; AP, NYT, WP, WT 11/29)

Israel cuts off all contact with the PA; gives Shin Bet, the IDF the "green light" to step up assassinations. Some MKs say Sharon should banish Arafat fr. the West Bank, Gaza. The PA arrests 3 PFLP leaders, but says it has not identified Ze'evi's assassins, will not extradite them to Israel once it does. Israel says if the killers are not extradited, it will treat the PA as a sponsor of terrorism. (The State Dept. refuses to back Israel's extradition demand.) Sharon declares that "Arafat has 7 days to impose absolute quiet in the territories. If not, we will go to war against him. As far as I'm concerned, the era of Arafat is over." (HP, MM 10/18; MENA, XIN 10/18 in WNC 10/19; NYT, WP, WT 10/19; MM 10/23)

The IDF reoccupies areas A in Jinin, Nablus, and Ramallah, sending in tanks and troops, shelling buildings, killing 3 Palestinians. In Bethlehem, 3 Palestinians, including Fatah tanzim leader Atif Ubayyat, 1 of Israel's most wanted, are killed when an explosion destroys their car. The deaths, which Palestinians claim were an assassination, spark a serious gun battle around the city; Palestinians in Bayt Jala also fire a mortar at Gilo for the 1st time in 2 mos., causing no damage. Palestinian gunmen fire on a group of Jewish settlers hiking in the Jordan Valley, killing 1 Jewish settler, wounding 2. (HP, MM, PMC 10/18; AP, HP, NYT, WP, WT 10/19; WP 10/20; PCHR 10/24)

At least 1 PFLP gunman assassinates Israeli tourism M Ze'evi in an East Jerusalem hotel, shooting him at point blank range, using a pistol equipped with a silencer, escaping undetected. The PFLP says it is retaliating for the assassination of PFLP secy. gen. Mustafa on 8/27; also takes responsibility for a suicide car bombing in Gaza that wounds 2 IDF soldiers. Arafat immediately condemns the assassination, orders the PSF to arrest the killers. The PSF quickly arrests 3 PFLP mbrs. but releases them after questioning. (AP, HA, HP, JP [Internet], MM, REU 10/17; AFP, ATL, XIN 10/17 in WNC 10/18; HA, MM, NYT, WP, WT 10/18; al-Quds 10/18 in WNC 10/19; Tehran Times 10/20 in WNC 10/22; WJW 10/25)

Meanwhile, Hamas mbr. Iyad al-Akhras is killed in an explosion in his Gaza home in what may be an assassination. The IDF also fires a missile at a Palestinian car in Nablus, but the rocket misses, 3 Palestinians escape unharmed. The IDF makes a predawn incursion into al-Qarara, firing heavy machine guns at homes, bulldozing 10s of dunams of cultivated land for construction of a settler bypass road; directs machine gun fire at residential areas of Gaza City, Jinin, Rafah; bulldozes secondary Palestinian roads around Ramallah. Palestinian gunmen reportedly fire at Neve Dekalim, wounding 2 Jewish settlers. In East Jerusalem, Jewish settlers angry over Ze'evi's murder attack, beat Palestinians. (HP 10/17; WT 10/18)

After a lengthy Israeli inner cabinet mtg., Sharon issues an ultimatum to the PA: arrest and extradite Ze'evi's killers and the PFLP's current leaders and "dismantle terror organizations" or face a response more severe than any recent reprisal. Sharon then convenes a special session of the Knesset (boycotted by Arab MKs), where he declares, "We will wage all-out war on the terrorists" and "those who collaborate with them." National Union+nYisrael Beitunia MKs suspend their resignations to see how Sharon responds. The IDF sends tanks, troops 2.5 mi. into area A around Jinin; reimposes tight closures on, places 24 hr. curfews on, and directs shells and heavy machine gun fire at residential areas of Azariyya, al-Bireh, Jinin, Nablus, Ramallah; deploys helicopters to hover over major Palestinian population centers; bars Arafat fr. using Gaza airport. (HP, MM 10/17; AFP, MM, NYT, WP, WT 10/18; JP [Internet], WP 10/29)

Powell phones Sharon to urge Israel to use restraint. The White House calls on the PA to "immediately find and bring to justice those who committed this murder," saying Arafat must "take vigorous action against terrorists." (MM, WP 10/18; Interfax, MENA, QA 10/18 in WNC 10/19)

The IDF withdraws fr. Palestinian areas of Hebron, vandalizing several homes, cars before leaving. The National Union and Yisrael Beitunia bloc (led by Tourism M Rehavam Ze'evi, Infrastructure M Avigdor Lieberman) quits the governing coalition in protest, leaving Sharon with control of 76 of the Knesset's 120 seats. As troops withdraw, Jewish settlers attempt to storm the vacated Palestinian neighborhoods, also vandalize several homes and shops, but are halted by soldiers, who arrest 21 (all released later in the day). The IDF also eases passage through roadblocks in a handful of areas, including Ramallah, and expands fishing areas off Gaza, in keeping with cease-fire steps. (HA, MM, WP, WT 10/15; AFP, MM, NYT, WP,WT 10/16; MA 10/16 in WNC 10/17; LAW 10/17)

Meanwhile, however, Hamas mbr. Hamad Marshud is killed when a flechette device, apparently planted by the IDF, explodes in a car outside his Nablus office. The State Dept. reiterates the U.S.'s strong opposition to Israel's assassination policy. The IDF also maintains closures on most West Bank, Gaza areas; surrounds, seals Bayt Umar; conducts arrest raids in Dayr Istya; begins building a bridge to link the Gaza settlements of Gush Katif, Kissufim, confiscating 150 dunams of Palestinian land; hands eviction orders to 250 tradesmen at a market area nr. Tulkarm; conducts arrest raids in Bayt Surik, Dayr Istya. Nr. Ramallah, armed Jewish settlers bar Palestinians farmers fr. reaching their olive groves, firing on them, beating them, burning cars. In Jerusalem, Israeli authorities raid the offices of several Palestinian lawyers, architects; search, photograph, destroy company files. (HP 10/15; MENA 10/15 in WNC 10/16; HP, NYT, WP, WT 10/16; LAW, WT 10/17)

In London, Arafat meets with British PM Tony Blair, who calls for the creation of a "viable Palestinian state, as part of a negotiated and agreed settlement, which provides peace and security for Israel." (AP, NYT 10/15; London Press Association, MENA, SA 10/15 in WNC 10/16; MM, NYT, WP, WT 10/16; AN, MENA 10/16 in WNC 10/17)

A Hamas suicide bomber detonates a device at a crowded West Jerusalem pizzeria, killing 13 Israelis, 1 American, 1 Brazilian and wounding at least 90. Afterward, angry Israelis in Jerusalem, Jewish settlers in Hebron attack Palestinians in the streets, with little intervention fr. Israeli police, soldiers. Fearing a massive Israeli strike, Palestinians throughout the occupied territories close offices and stores, take refuge in their homes. Meanwhile, Palestinian gunmen fire on a vehicle nr. Jinin, killing 1 Jewish settler, wounding 3. The IDF directs heavy machine gun fire at residential areas of Bayt Lahia, Jericho, Khan Yunis, Nablus, Rafah; bulldoze a Palestinian home in Gaza. (AP, BBC, HA 8/9; ITAR-TASS, MENA 8/9 in WNC 8/10; NYT, PMC, WP, WT 8/10; JT 8/10 in WNC 8/13; WP 8/11)

Immediately after the bombing, the IDF senior command, Israeli cabinet convene separately to discuss response scenarios. The cabinet agrees to a new strategy of hitting PA targets only with the aim of forcing Arafat to choose btwn. a full cease-fire, destruction of the PA. This evening, Sharon meets with his security cabinet, which also decides to set up new police stations in East Jerusalem. (HA 8/9; CNN, HA, JP [Internet], LAW, NYT, REU, WP, WT 8/10; MENA 8/10 in WNC 8/13; WT 8/11; Times [London] 8/13; WT 8/15)

Late tonight (2:00 a.m. local time), Israel sends F-16s to destroy a PSF post in Ramallah; sends more tanks into Gaza, bulldozing 1 PSF post. Israeli security forces occupy 10 unofficial PLO offices in East Jerusalem, including Orient House (the symbolic PLO FMin.); also detain 8 Orient House employees for questioning, confiscate files, remove the Palestinian flag, raise an Israeli flag. The IDF takes over the Abu Dis mayor's residence, several surrounding homes Israel claims are used as PA security command centers, marking the 1st reoccupation of sites in area B. Sharon declares that "Orient House will not open again. Ever. We will not leave Abu Dis." The State Dept. says the actions mark a "political escalation." Russia warns Israel has crossed a "dangerous line." In response, Israel removes the Israeli flag fr. Orient House. (HA 8/9; CNN, HA, JP [Internet], LAW, NYT, REU, WP, WT 8/10; MENA 8/10 in WNC 8/13; WT 8/11; JT, al-Quds 8/12 in WNC 8/14; Times [London] 8/13; AYM 8/13, SA 8/14 in WNC 8/15; ATL 8/15 in WNC 8/16)

A PA security court in Nablus sentences another Palestinian to death for collaborating with Israel in the 2/19 assassination of Hamas mbr. Mahmud Madani. (Independent [Internet] 8/10)

The IDF shells Hamas's press office in Nablus, killing 8 Palestinians, wounding 7. Among the fatalities are Hamas political leaders Jamal Mansur and Jamal Salim, the targets of assassination and prominent public figures known for running a network of welfare programs and medical clinics. Also killed are Fahim Dawabsha, another Hamas mbr. on Israel's wanted list; 2 journalists interviewing Mansur; 2 children outside the building. The attack triggers firefights, especially around Jerusalem; mortar strikes; and 2 ambushes of Jewish settler vehicles that leave 7 settlers wounded. 100s of Palestinians gather outside the Hamas office to protest. Sharon terms the attack "one of our most important successes." The State Dept. "strongly deplores" the "highly provocative" incident. Egypt's Mubarak sends an "urgent letter" to Bush pressing for U.S. to intervene with Israel. Meanwhile, the IDF demolishes 2 Palestinian homes in Shu`fat; sends tanks, bulldozers into Bayt Sahur to shell residential areas, demolish part of a home, a water network; directs heavy machine gun fire at residential areas of Bayt Jala, Gaza City, al-Khadir, Khan Yunis, Rafah; bulldozes additional land outside Ramallah; conducts arrest sweeps in Bayt Hanina, East Jerusalem, Shu`fat, al-Tur, Wadi al-Juz; sets up a new checkpoints nr. Nablus, Ramallah, Zawata; tightens the closures on Salfit, Tulkarm. IDF soldiers also severely beat 2 journalists at a checkpoint nr. Qalandiyya; 2 Palestinians are killed in clashes elsewhere. Jewish settlers vandalize Palestinian cars in East Jerusalem. (AP, HP, LAW, PMC, REU 7/31; MENA 7/31 in WNC 8/1; MENA 7/31, ATL, JT, MA, MENA, XIN 8/1 in WNC 8/2; NYT, WP, WT 8/1; XIN 8/1, AN 8/2 in WNC 8/3; HP 8/2; MENA 8/4 in WNC 8/6; LAW 8/6; JP, MEI 8/10)

A PA security court sentences 4 Palestinians to death for collaborating with Israel in the assassination of senior Fatah official Thabet Thabet on 12/31/00. A 5th defendant is acquitted. (WT 8/1; AYM 8/4 in WNC 8/10; WT 8/7)

The UNSC votes unanimously to extends the UNIFIL mandate through the end of 1/02, implement the staged troop reduction endorsed on 5/18. (UN press release 7/31; AFP 8/1 in WNC 8/2; MEI 8/10)

Israeli-Palestinian clashes increase sharply. Palestinian gunmen shoot at a vehicle nr. Nablus, wounding 3 Jewish settlers. In retaliation, the IDF temporarily reoccupies a hill inside PA-controlled Nablus and shells PSF buildings in the city, killing 1 PSF officer, wounding 2 officers and a child. The IDF also occupies 3 Palestinian homes in nearby Kafr Khalil, which it does not surrender when troops withdraw fr. Nablus. Outraged settlers attack a nearby Palestinian village, smashing windows of Palestinian cars and an ambulance with stones and rifle butts, burning olive groves. After 1 Jewish settler is killed, 1 is wounded by a Palestinian sniper in Hebron, the IDF shells several Palestinian buildings, destroying a PSF post, injuring 2 PSF officers, up to 92 Palestinian civilians, and cutting off power to the PA-controlled area of the city. Angry settlers stone Palestinian homes, set fire to a garage, 1 car in Hebron; smash taxi windows, slash tires in the nearby Palestinian village of Halhul. (AP 7/12; MM, NYT, WP 7/13; MA, al-Quds 7/13 in WNC 7/16; In Focus 7/18)

Sharon sends his son Omri to Ramallah to stress to Arafat "the absolute need to stop the terror and violence," reportedly warns that Israel is prepared to launch a major strike if Palestinian attacks do not cease. (HA, MM, NYT 7/13; WP, WT 7/14; SA 7/14 in WNC 7/17; MM 7/16; MM 7/19)

Israeli-Palestinian clashes continue at a low level, prompting Israel, the PA to exchange accusations that the other has violated the cease-fire agmt. Islamic Jihad detonates 2 roadside bombs nr. IDF patrols in the West Bank and Gaza, causing no injuries. IDF soldiers fire on Palestinian demonstrators in Khan Yunis, killing a 12-yr.-old Palestinian boy. However, the IDF pulls back troops fr. sensitive points in Gaza; Israeli, PA security teams conduct joint patrols for the 1st time in mos.; IDF, PSF cmdrs. in Gaza jointly oversee IDF efforts to dismantle roadblocks, remove tanks fr. Netzarim Junction. (NYT, WP, WT 6/18; AKH 6/18 in WNC 6/19)

In Ramla, Israel, Israeli police demolish an Israeli Arab home built without a permit. (HA 6/21)

Sharon refuses a UN request to allow FM Peres to joint a mtg. btwn. Arafat, UN Secy.-Gen. Annan in Ramallah today, saying there can be no PA-Israeli negotiations without a complete cessation to Palestinian violence. Sharon's decision sparks a sharp exchange with Peres, who supports holding the mtg., during a Knesset session. (MM, NYT, WP, WT 6/18)

Syrian troops continue their redeployment fr. posts in and around Beirut. (al-Quds 6/17, al-Ra'i 6/18 in WNC 6/19; MM, NYT, WP, WT 6/18; RMC 6/19 in WNC 6/20; MEI 6/29)