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  • October 12, 2023

    In the West Bank, Israeli...

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  • December 8, 2021

    In the West Bank, Israeli settlers vandalized some 70 olive trees in Khillat al-Dabe in Masafer Yatta. The Hebron Rehabilitation Committee said Israeli forces prevented its workers from renovating...

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  • July 26, 2021

    In the West Bank, 1 Palestinian minor succumbed to his injuries after 74 days in intensive care after being shot by Israeli forces in the neck near Ramallah on 5/14. Israeli settlers began...

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  • December 8, 2004

    The IDF fires shells at a group of Palestinians that enters a closed military zone nr. the Gaza-Egypt border, killing 4 Palestinians, arresting 2 (1 of whom later dies in an Israeli hospital);...

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  • January 5, 1998

    Knesset passes (58-52) Netanyahu's budget, which includes a 20% increase relative to FY 1997 in the allotment for land, real estate purchases in East Jerusalem. (IDF Radio 1/5 in WNC 1/6; CSM, MM...

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  • August 14, 1995

    In Tunis, PLO Exec. Comm. opens 2-day mtg. to discuss Oslo B agmt. 10 of 18 mbrs. attend. PLO Dep. Qaddumi, PFLP, DFLP boycott. Fr. Amman, Qaddumi strongly criticizes Oslo B, calls on PLO, Fatah...

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  • January 6, 1995

    PA Culture M `Abid Rabbu holds mtg. with Arab Journalists Association (AJA) pres. Na`im Toubassi, tells him PA will begin issuing press cards to qualified journalists. Gaza Journalists' League...

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  • June 13, 1994

    PLO Chmn. Arafat, addressing OAU summit in Tunis, criticizes "serious delay" in international aid to Palestinian National Authority, continuing Israeli settlement in East Jerusalem.  Arafat orders...

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  • May 24, 1994

    Israel closes off Jericho self-rule area for 1 day after Palestinian police disarm 2 settlers.  Closure ostensibly to allow Palestinian police to organize.  (Qol Yisra'el 5/24 in FBIS 5/24; MM 5/...

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  • August 28, 1993

    Palestinian negotiating delegation joins PLO Exec. Comm. meeting in Tunis. (MENA 8/29 in FBIS 8/30)

    Hamas rejects Gaza-Jericho proposal, urges PLO withdrawal fr. peace talks. (al-Ray 8/29...

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  • July 21, 1993

    Secy. of State Warren Christopher, at press conference, refuses to state whether U.S. considers East Jerusalem to be occupied. Stating "there is no shift at all in the United States' policy," he...

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  • April 5, 1993

    Extended Palestinian leadership suspends 4 days of meetings in Tunis, postpones decision on resumption of talks until 4/18-19 FMs meeting in Amman. Hamas declined invitation to attend. (RMC 4/3 in...

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  • December 20, 1992

    Hamas accepts Chmn. Arafat's 12/19 invitation to attend Palestinian leadership meetings in Tunis beginning today, is prepared to "transcend all previous disagreements" to close Palestinian ranks...

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  • October 17, 1992

    PLO Central Council meeting ends in Tunis, issues statement giving "green light" to peace delegates. Unity prevailed as opposition figures either did not attend, or did not voice proposals made...

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  • October 15, 1992

    PLO Central Council opens 3-day meeting of 85 out of 105 mbrs. in Tunis to assess Palestinian participation in the peace process. Haydar 'Abd al-Shafi and Faisal Husseini are among 6 mbrs. of the...

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  • October 14, 1992

    Yasir Arafat chairs meeting of mbrs. of PNC, PLO Exec. Comm., Fateh Cent. Comm., and Palestinian delegation to peace talks in preparation for PLO Central Council meeting 10/15 in Tunis. (Sanaa VOP...

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  • October 10, 1992

    IDF and Border Police clash with Palestinian demonstrators throughout o.t., wounding 62 and killing 1 (in Bayta, W. Bank). Thousands march from Red Cross headquarters to the Civad building in Gaza...

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  • July 20, 1992

    Secy. of State Baker continues talks with PM Rabin, joined by fin. min. and Bank of Israel gov. concerning loan guarantees. Baker also proposes U.S.-Israeli defense pact in return for Israeli...

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  • May 10, 1992

    PLO Central Council concludes meeting in Tunis after heated discussions over whether Palestinians should continue participating in peace process. Council eventually issues resolution expressing...

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  • March 26, 1992

    U.S. investigatory team ends its inspection of Israeli Patriot missile batteries. (NYT 3/27)

    Ateret Cohanim seminary opens four stores in Muslim Quarter of E. Jerusalem. (MM 3/27)

    EC...

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  • October 16, 1991

    Syrian FM Faruq al-Sharaa confirms Syria will attend peace conference but will not participate in subsequent talks on regional issues unless Israel displays willingness to withdraw from occupied...

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  • July 25, 1991

    PLO Executive Committee begins open-ended meetings in Tunis, awaiting response from U.S.-Soviet summit in Moscow to demands put forward in letter to Soviet Pres. Mikhail Gorbachev. Demands include...

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  • March 22, 1990

    U.S. Senate adopts by voice vote resolution recognizing undivided Jerusalem as capital of Israel [NYT, WP 2/23; LAT 4/ 20].

    Arafat says PLO has asked USSR to adopt specific measures to slow...

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  • March 16, 1990

    Two small religious parties, Shas and Agudat Israel, suggesthey would not join Lidud-led coalition as long as Shamir is party leader [NYT 3/ 17]; Los Angeles Times reports growing...

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  • March 10, 1990

    About 500 Palestinian and Israeli women march in Jerusalem to call for negotiations between Israel and Palestinians [WP 3/11; FJ 3/19].

    Jerusalem mayor Teddy Kollek says current gov't....

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  • March 6, 1990

    After internal debate, Likud party says Labor must agree to "basic and essential" issues before Israeli-Palestinian negotiations can proceed: (1) E. Jerusalem Arabs be excluded from talks and (2)...

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  • January 24, 1988

    Social/Economic/Political

    Occupied Palestine/Israel: IDF chief of staff, Gen. Dan Shomron, orders soldiers to use force only when necessary to quell disturbances. P. M. Shamir's office...

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  • December 8, 1986

    Social/Economic/Political

    Occupied Palestine/Israel: P.M. Shamir acknowledges U.S.-Iran arms deal included promises to release Israeli soldiers [BG 12/9].

    Arab World: Arab League...

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  • March 7, 1986

    Social/Economic/Political

    Occupied Palestine/Israel: New Arabic newspaper al-Nahar, staffed by pro-Jordanian Palestinians, begins operations in East Jerusalem; Publisher and Editor...

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In the West Bank, Israeli settlers shot and killed 2 Palestinians during a funeral procession for 4 Palestinians killed by Israeli settlers in Qusra on 10/11. Israeli settlers also attacked Palestinians and Palestinian property in Nabi Salih, Huwwara, Abu Kabash, Khirbet Zanuta, Jaba’, and al-Twana, injuring at least 2. Israeli forces shot and killed a Palestinian minor in Jayyus. Israeli forces also shot and killed a Palestinian who allegedly shot and injured an Israeli soldier near Ibziq. Elsewhere, Israeli forces shot and killed a Palestinian woman traveling in a car with her son, who was injured, in Ein Yabrud. Israeli forces also violently dispersed Palestinian protesters, injuring 7 with live ammunition in Nabi Ilyas, Sinjil, Bethlehem, and Beit Umar. Meanwhile, Israeli forces assaulted 2 Palestinians, including a 9-year-old, demolished a gate to a school, and seized a Palestinian flag in Khirbet Zanuta. Israeli forces also demolished 2 Palestinian homes in al-Janiya. Separately, Israeli forces sealed a pizzeria in Huwwara that had used a picture of one of the Israeli captives for an online ad; Israeli settlers had earlier tried to attack the pizzeria. 60 Palestinians were arrested during raids in and around Jenin, Jericho, Bethlehem, Hebron, Ramallah, Nablus, Qalandia, Qalqilya, and Tulkarm. The Palestinian Prisoner’s Society said Israel has arrested more than 200 people in the West Bank since 10/7. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces shot and killed a Palestinian after he allegedly shot and injured 2 Israeli police officers in near Bab al-Zahra. The PFLP said that the man was of a member of its organization. In Gaza, an Israeli airstrike killed at least 45 people in Jabalia refugee camp. Further airstrikes killed hundreds of Palestinians and destroyed at least 8 high-rise residential towers, with the most severely hit areas being Gaza City, Rafah Nuseirat, and Dayr al-Balah. The UN said that while rockets were still fired from Gaza they had dissipated in intensity. Rockets from Gaza killed 2 Israelis and wounded several others. In the Naqab, Israeli police shot and injured 2 Palestinian citizens of Israel in Rahat, claiming they were from Gaza. In Lebanon, militants killed an Israeli soldier using an anti-tank missile. A drone from Lebanon was shot down over Israel. In Syria, Israeli forces attacked the international airports in Damascus and Aleppo, damaging the runways. (AP 10/7; AJ 10/11; AJ, AJ, AJ, AJ, AP, AP, AP, AP, HA, HA, UNOCHA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 10/12; AJ, AJ, HA, WAFA 10/13; HA 10/14)

Human Rights Watch, Amnesty International, and the Euro-Med Human Rights Monitor confirmed earlier reports that Israel had used white phosphorus munitions to attack Gaza and Lebanon. The Israeli military said that it was “currently not aware of the use” of white phosphorous munitions in Gaza. The Gaza Ministry of Health said at as of 2 p.m. least 1,417 Palestinians had been killed and 6,268 had been injured in Israeli airstrikes on Gaza since 10/7. In addition, Israeli media reported that 1,500 Palestinian militants have been killed near Gaza. 34 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces and settlers in the West Bank and East Jerusalem since 10/7, including 6 children. More than 500 Palestinians had been injured, including at least 175 with live ammunition. Israeli media reported that around 1,300 Israelis and foreign nationals have been killed and 3,391 injured in Israel since 10/7. The UN reported that 423,000 Palestinians have been displaced since 10/7 and that since 2 p.m. on 10/11 there has been a complete electricity blackout due to the Israeli blockade. At least 4,626 housing units have been destroyed in Israeli airstrikes since 10/7. The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) said hospitals in Gaza were turning to graveyards as medical equipment has stopped working due to the lack of power and that 3 out of 5 water plants in Gaza, serving 1.1 million people, were out of service due to the Israeli bombing and blockade. The ICRC also said it was in contact with Hamas and Israel about the captives held in Gaza. The Israeli Air Force bragged on X that Israel had dropped 6,000 bombs on Gaza since 10/7. (AJ 10/11; AJ, AJ, AJ, AP, AP, HA, HRW, UNOCHA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 10/12; AJ, AJ, AJ, HA, REU, WAFA 10/13)

Israeli energy minister Yisrael Katz said Israel would continue preventing energy, water, and fuel from entering Gaza until the Israeli captives are released. (AJ 10/11; AJ, REU 10/12)

UN secretary-general Antonio Guterres said that Israel must allow fuel, food, and water into Gaza. (AJ 10/11)

Jordan said it will send a military plane with humanitarian aid for Gaza to Egypt. (AJ 10/11; HA 10/12)

Egyptian president Abdel Fattah al-Sisi said Palestinians must “stay steadfast and remain on their land” as Egypt feared that allowing Palestinians to flee to Egypt would mean their permanent displacement from Gaza. Egypt also said planes carrying international aid to Gaza should use the al-Arish Airport 28 miles from the Gaza border. (AJ 10/11; REU 10/12; REU 10/14)

The UK said it had deployed 2 naval ships and a surveillance aircraft to the eastern Mediterranean to support Israel. (AJ 10/11; HA 10/12)

The Commission for Prisoners and Ex-Prisoners Affairs said that, starting on 10/11, Israel cut off water and electricity to Palestinian prisoners in the Naqab Prison. (WAFA 10/12)

Hamas military spokesperson Abu Obeida said Hamas began preparing for Operation Al-Aqsa Flood in 2022 and managed to recruit 4,500 fighters for the operation. He added that Hamas is prepared for an Israeli ground invasion. Hamas deputy political leader Salah al-Arouri called the operation a “preemptive strike” based on intelligence that Israel was planning to attack after the Sukkot holidays. Al-Aruri also said it initially only took soldiers as captives but that the entry of armed civilians resulted in chaos and that many of the Israeli deaths were the result of Israeli actions, citing the Hannibal Directive that allows Israeli forces to kill Israelis rather than allow enemies to hold them captive. Hamas also released a video produced last month of its training exercise “Strong Pillar” preparing militants for Operation Al-Aqsa Flood. (AJ 10/11; AP, HA 10/12)

PA president Mahmoud Abbas met with Jordanian king Abdullah II in Amman, saying that he rejects the killing of civilians by Israel and Hamas. (AJ 10/11; HA, REU, REU, WAFA 10/12)

The Knesset approved the new war cabinet and swore-in National Unity Party members Benny Gantz, Gadi Eisenkot, Gideon Sa’ar, Chili Tropper, and Yifat Shasha-Biton as ministers without portfolio. (HA 10/12)

U.S. secretary of state Antony Blinken landed in Israel for meetings with Israeli leaders. In a meeting with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Blinken invoked the Holocaust and said he was in Israel to support the country “as the United States Secretary of State, but also as a Jew.” Blinken and Netanyahu compared Hamas to ISIS, with Blinken saying the Israeli government had showed him pictures and videos of infants shot, soldiers beheaded, and people burned alive. Israeli military spokesperson Daniel Hagari claimed that a guide by ISIS and al-Qaeda on producing IEDs was left behind by militants near Gaza. Blinken is expected to meet with PA president Mahmoud Abbas and King Abdullah II of Jordan in Amman on 10/13 and later travel to Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Egypt, and Qatar. The Wall Street Journal reported that the U.S. is in contact with Egyptian and Israeli officials to help evacuate around 500-600 U.S. citizens living in Gaza via the Rafah crossing. 17 members of Congress, led by Sara Jacobs (D-CA), signed a letter to the State Department urging it to evacuate Palestinian Americans from Gaza and the West Bank.  (AJ 10/11; AJ, HA, HA, HA, REU, REU, REU 10/12; REU 10/13)

Israeli defense minister Yoav Gallant spoke to NATO defense ministers, claiming Israeli women were raped and dragged to Gaza and that the Hamas operation was the worst for the Jewish people since the Holocaust. These widely circulated rape claims have not been verified. (HA, HA 10/12)

Lebanese caretaker prime minister Najib Mikati urged all Lebanese groups not to get pulled into “Israel’s plans,” and condemned the Israeli attacks. (AJ 10/11)

The OIC condemned Israel’s attacks on Gaza. (WAFA 10/12)

South Africa offered to help mediate a “conflict resolution,” calling for the immediate and unconditional opening of “humanitarian corridors.” (AJ 10/11; HA 10/12)

Brazilian president Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva called on Israeli president Isaac Herzog to establish a humanitarian corridor to Egypt and to end the total blockade of Gaza, allowing electricity, water, and medicine in hospitals. (AJ 10/13)

German chancellor Olaf Scholz criticized PA president Mahmoud Abbas for not speaking out against the Hamas operation on 10/7 and said Germany will suspend all development aid to Palestine until Germany has completed a review of its aid. Scholz also said Germany would ban the organization Samidoun because it handed out pastries at a pro-Palestinian protest on 10/7. (AP, HA 10/12; HA 10/16)

The Arab-American Anti-Discrimination Committee said it had received multiple calls about Palestinians being detained by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement or receiving visits from the FBI, and that the FBI visited several mosques in the U.S. (AJ 10/11; REU 10/13)

France banned pro-Palestinian protests, claiming they would “generate disturbances to public order.” When protesters took to the street in Paris in defiance of the ban, French police assaulted them using water cannons and tear gas. More than 1,000 Tunisians also protested in Tunis. (AJ 10/11; AJ, AP, HA 10/12; REU 10/13)

ICC prosecutor Karim Khan spoke for the first time since Operation Al-Aqsa Flood, saying the ICC does have jurisdiction over potential war crimes carried out by either Israel or Palestinian militants in the current war. (REU 10/12; AJ 10/18)

Former U.S. president and current Republican front-runner for the next presidential election, Donald Trump, said that he will “never forget that Bibi Netanyahu let us down,” and called Defense Minister Gallant “a jerk.” Trump complained that Netanyahu tried to take credit for killing Iranian general Qassem Soleimani in 2020, saying that “did not make me feel too good.” Rolling Stone reported that Trump had told allies that he wants Netanyahu impeached. (HA, HA, HA 10/12; REU 10/13)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers vandalized some 70 olive trees in Khillat al-Dabe in Masafer Yatta. The Hebron Rehabilitation Committee said Israeli forces prevented its workers from renovating 12 Palestinian-owned homes in the al-Jabari area of Hebron. 12 Palestinians were arrested during raids in Bethlehem, Tuqu‘, Beit Fajjar, Beit Sahour, al-Am‘ari refugee camp, Beita, Bayt Dajan, and Rujeib. In East Jerusalem, 1 Palestinian minor, facing eviction by Israeli settlers, allegedly stabbed an Israeli settler in her neighborhood in Sheikh Jarrah; the settler was lightly injured. The Palestinian girl was found in a nearby school 1 hour later and was arrested by Israeli forces; she denied involvement. Israeli forces also arrested 3 other people at the school and raided the girl’s home, arresting her mother. Israeli settlers toured Sheikh Jarrah, chanting “death to Arabs.” Israeli forces later closed off Sheikh Jarrah, preventing activists and journalists from entering the neighborhood. 5 Palestinians were arrested in Isawiya. In Israel, Israeli right-wing activists vandalized a mosque in Umm al-Fahm by spraying racist graffiti and drawing the Star of David on it. (AJ, HA, MEMO, MEMO, MEMO, REU, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 12/8; ALM, HA 12/9; HA 12/10; PCHR 12/16)

The Israeli Jerusalem municipality advanced early-stage plans for a new Israeli settlement in East Jerusalem near Bayt Safafa, to be called Givat Shaked. The plans for the new settlement include 473 settler units, 2 schools, and synagogues. The settlement was 1st proposed by former Israeli prime minister Yitzhak Rabin in 1995, but shelved after international outrage, including from the U.S. (HA, MEE 12/6; MEMO 12/7; TOI 12/8)

Members of the Hamas political bureau visited Moscow for meetings with Russian deputy foreign minister Mikhail Bogdanov. (MEMO 12/8)

PA president Mahmoud Abbas met with Tunisian president Kais Saied in Tunis. (WAFA 12/7; WAFA, WAFA 12/8)

Jordan rescinded its submission to the Academy Awards, also known as the Oscars, and apologized after pressure from Palestinians who called the film Amira offensive. The film depicts a Palestinian girl who is ostracized from her community after she discovers that she was conceived by sperm from an Israeli prison guard and not the Palestinian prisoners she thought was her father. The PA and Hamas were among those lobbying against the movie. (HA, MEE, MEMO 12/9)

Israeli defense minister Benny Gantz claimed, in response to a formal query by members of the Meretz party, that the 6 rights organizations he had declared terrorist organizations on 10/22 had PFLP members who did not work for them on their payroll. He also claimed that PFLP members controlled the organizations. (HA 12/8)

Lebanon’s labor minister Mustafa Bayram said Lebanon would ease restrictions on what professions Palestinian refugees in the country are allowed to work. Labor Minister Bayram’s office quickly sought to clarify that the changes would be within the confines of the current Lebanese legislation. The legislation does not allow much leeway for substantial changes to the rules banning Palestinians from certain jobs. Bayram, who is from the Amal party, was quickly shunned by Lebanese politicians from other parties, who said he does not have the authority to make any changes on the issue. Gebran Bassil of the Free Patriotic Movement called the comments “‘naturalization in disguise’ of the Palestinians . . . there shouldn’t be any stealing of jobs from Lebanese under the current circumstances.” Bayram eventually completely retracted his initial statement, saying that there will be no changes. (AA, JP 12/9; HA 12/13)

In the West Bank, 1 Palestinian minor succumbed to his injuries after 74 days in intensive care after being shot by Israeli forces in the neck near Ramallah on 5/14. Israeli settlers began construction work around a spring in Wadi al-Malih. Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinian protesters during a raid in Nablus, causing tear-gas related injuries. Israeli forces seized electric cables and an excavator in as-Samu. 10 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in and around Deir Balut, Silwad, Sur Baher, al-Ubeidiya, Wadi Abu Freiha, Hebron, Qabatiya, Meithalun, and Tammun. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces dispersed Palestinian protesters in Sheikh Jarrah. 2 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in Silwan. (AP, HA, WAFA, WAFA 7/26; WAFA 7/27; PCHR 7/29)

Kahanist Israeli lawmaker Itamar Ben-Gvir of the Otzma Yehudit (Jewish Power) party called the Palestinian Israeli deputy speaker of the Knesset Ahmad Tibi a terrorist before being forcefully removed from the Knesset podium he was speaking from. Ben-Gvir’s smear happened after he refused to address Tibi as “Mr. Speaker.” (HA 7/26; MEMO, TOI 7/27)

Tunisian president Kais Saied ousted the Tunisian government and froze the parliament in what was said to be a coup. Tunisian forces also stormed the Al Jazeera offices in Tunis and expelled the staff from the premises. Tunisians had taken to the street on 7/25 to protest the government after a new COVID-19 spike and continued economic difficulties. (AJ 7/25; AJ, AJ, AJ, AJ, AJ, AP, HA, MEE, MEMO, MEMO, MEMO, REU, REU 7/26)

In Lebanon, Najib Mikati secured 72 of 118 votes in the Lebanese parliament to be approved as the new prime minister-elect. Saad Hariri resigned as prime minister-elect on 7/15 after failing to form a government 9 months after being picked to do so. Mikati has been Lebanon’s prime minister twice before, in 2005 and 2011-14. (AJ, REU 7/25; AJ, AJ, AP, F24, MEMO, MEMO, REU, REU 7/26)

U.S. president Joe Biden and Iraqi prime minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi agreed, during a meeting at the White House, that all U.S. combat troops would leave Iraq by the end of 2021, leaving only U.S. personnel for advisory roles. (HA, MEMO 7/26; MEE, REU 7/27)

4 members of congress, Tom Malinowski (D-NJ), Katie Porter (D-CA), Joaquin Castro (D-TX), and Anna G. Eshoo (D-CA), urged the Biden administration to speak out against companies that sell cyber intrusion tools, such as NSO Group, and to consider sanctioning such companies and the regimes that use their tools. The members’ call follows reporting from 7/18 that NSO Group, with approval from the Israeli government, sold its Pegasus spyware to foreign governments, which have used the spyware on journalists, activists, and heads of other countries. (Tom Malinowski 7/26; HA, MEE 7/27)

Florida governor Ron DeSantis (R) urged the Florida State Board of Administration to place Ben & Jerry’s and its parent company Unilever on the state’s list of companies to be examined in relation to boycotts of Israel. The move comes as Ben & Jerry’s announced on 7/19 that it will stop selling its ice cream in the Occupied Palestinian Territories and end its licensing to an Israeli-based franchise. (HA, HILL 7/26)

The IDF fires shells at a group of Palestinians that enters a closed military zone nr. the Gaza-Egypt border, killing 4 Palestinians, arresting 2 (1 of whom later dies in an Israeli hospital); demolishes a Palestinian home in East Jerusalem; bulldozes several bedouin tents and shacks in Bir Nabala northwest of Jerusalem for construction of the separation wall; raids a PA Health Min. clinic in Bethlehem; fires on residential areas of Khan Yunis; conducts arrest raids in Bayt Rima, Burkin nr. Jenin, Qarawat Bani Zayd. The IDF detains and beats PA presidential candidate Mustafa Barghouthi and his bodyguards at a checkpoint into Jenin, preventing him fr. campaigning in the city; the IDF disputes the account, says Barghouthi refused to show ID, was never hit, was finally allowed to pass when he showed ID. Palestinians fire an antitank rocket into Gaza’s Nisanit settlement, causing no damage or injuries. (AP, PM 12/8; VOI, VOP 12/8 in WNC 12/10; PCHR, WP 12/9; JAZ, VOI, VOP, YA 12/9 in WNC 12/11; NYT 12/10; NYT 12/11; WP 12/12; PR 12/15)

Abbas, Qurai‘ meet with Lebanese pres. Emile Lahoud, PM Omar Karami, parliamentary speaker Nabih Birri in Beirut, marking the 1st visit by the Palestinian leadership to Lebanon since Arafat withdrew to Tunis in 1982. Abbas, Qurai‘ visit Shatila r.c., Sidon, and Rashidiyya r.c. (a Fatah stronghold) where they are greeted by 1,000s of refugees, pledge to uphold the right of return. They do not visit nearby ‘Ayn al-Hilwa r.c. (AFP, WT 12/8; VOP 12/8 in WNC 12/10; AP 12/9; al-Quds, VOP 12/9 in WNC 12/11; NYT 12/13; Daily Star, alNahar, al-Safir 12/13 in WNC 12/16; PR 12/15)

Knesset passes (58-52) Netanyahu's budget, which includes a 20% increase relative to FY 1997 in the allotment for land, real estate purchases in East Jerusalem. (IDF Radio 1/5 in WNC 1/6; CSM, MM, NYT, WP, WT 1/6; Globes [Internet)] 1/11 in WNC 1/13)

Officers fr. Turkey, U.S. arrive in Israel to plan drills for joint naval maneuvers. (JT, JTV 1/5 in WNC 1/6; Tishrin 1/5 in WNC 1/10; MM, WP, WT 1/6; IDF Radio 1/6 in WNC 1/7; al-Rayah [Doha] 1/8 in WNC 1/11; MEI 1/16)

Interior Ms fr. 22 Arab League states end 2-day mtg. in Tunis; approve preliminary draft agmt. (to be presented to 4/98 Arab League session), calling on foreign states to cooperate with Arab security services, legal bodies to prevent "terrorism." (NYT, WP 1/6; MM 1/7)

In s. Lebanon, 1 civilian is wounded during IDF-Hizballah clash. (RL, VOL 1/5 in WNC 1/6)

In Tunis, PLO Exec. Comm. opens 2-day mtg. to discuss Oslo B agmt. 10 of 18 mbrs. attend. PLO Dep. Qaddumi, PFLP, DFLP boycott. Fr. Amman, Qaddumi strongly criticizes Oslo B, calls on PLO, Fatah to adopt his alternative draft "Palestinian National Program." (AFP 8/12, AFP, al-Ra'y 8/14 in FBIS 8/14; SA 8/13, RMC, VOP 8/15 in FBIS 8/15; MM 8/15, 8/16; SA 8/16 in FBIS 8/16)

Israel says U.S. Amb. Indyk is pressuring it to include Jordanian companies in the U.S.-Israel BIRD Foundation for research and development of advanced technologies. (YA 8/14 in FBIS 8/15)

Israeli Police M Shahal warns PA that the East Jerusalem Municipal Council is illegal (see 6/10), Palestinians introducing themselves as mbrs. of the council will be arrested; tells Palestinian bodies operating offices in East Jerusalem to close within 2 wks or police will move against them. (QY 8/14 in FBIS 8/15)

Israeli police arrest 3 settlers in connection with death of Palestinian 8/13. 250 settlers protest the arrest. (QY 8/14 in FBIS 8/14; CSM 8/15)

In retaliation for attack 8/13, IAF launches 14 strikes against PFLP-GC bases nr. al-Nai'ma, s. Lebanon, injuring 6 civilians. Arab League calls on U.S., Russia to rein in Israel. (QPAR, RE 8/14 in FBIS 8/15; NYT 8/15; SARR 8/15 in FBIS 8/16)

IDF closes West Bank, Gaza until 8/16. (ITV 8/14 in FBIS 8/15)

PA Culture M `Abid Rabbu holds mtg. with Arab Journalists Association (AJA) pres. Na`im Toubassi, tells him PA will begin issuing press cards to qualified journalists. Gaza Journalists' League treasurer Zakariyya Talmas complains only 3 journalist qualify for cards under PA rules "and they are dead." (Jerusalem Times 1/6 in FBIS 1/9)

Mtg. of all Arab FMs in Tunis ends. Parties recommend countries donate funds on bilateral basis, turn down PA request to recognize validity of Palestinian passports, fail to reach agmt. on aid for Palestinian police. PA delegation angered. (MM 1/6)

Jerusalem district director for Israeli Housing Min., Rina Zamir, says construction of 10,000 housing units in and around East Jerusalem will begin this yr. (MM 1/6; JP 1/6 in FBIS 1/6; MM 1/16)

Arafat loyalists, opponents clash in `Ayn Hilwa r.c. in southern Lebanon after Arafat announces 400 Palestinians will be transferred to Gaza shortly. No casualties reported. PLO says Israel approved the transfer of 2,000 post-1948 refugees fr. Lebanon, Libya, Jordan, Sudan, Tunisia; Lebanon's quota is 470. (RL, VOL 1/5 in FBIS 1/6; MM 1/6; VOL 1/6, Voice of the South 1/7 in FBIS 1/9; Al-Hayat 1/7 in FBIS 1/11) (see 12/19)

Syrian FM Faruq al-Shara` visits Tehran to give Pres. Hashemi Rafsanjani message fr. Pres. al-Asad about improving relations. (MM 1/11) (see 12/30)

Israel denies giving any U.S. technological information to China. (WT 1/7) (see 1/4)

U.S. Defense Secy. William Perry arrives in Egypt for 2-day visit, talks with Pres. Mubarak about Egypt's threat to withdraw fr. NPT, promises to defend aid to Egypt in Congress. (MENA 1/6 in FBIS 1/9; WT 1/9; MEI 1/20)

1 settler shot dead, 1 wounded in West Bank nr. Ramallah. PFLP claims responsibility in revenge for killings on 1/4. (MM 1/6; QY 1/6 in FBIS 1/6;  AFP 1/7 in FBIS 1/9; WJW 1/12; JP 1/14)

PLO Chmn. Arafat, addressing OAU summit in Tunis, criticizes "serious delay" in international aid to Palestinian National Authority, continuing Israeli settlement in East Jerusalem.  Arafat orders most PLO offices in Tunis to close, leave for Jericho.  (WT 6/14, 6/15)

FRC ("Abu Nidal" group) mbr. Yusuf Sha`ban, on trial in Beirut for 1/94 murder of Jordanian diplomat, claims responsibility for 1988 bombing of Pan Am Flight 103.  U.S. officials doubt claim; evidence in case points to Libya.  (CSM, NYT, WP, WSJ, WT 6/14)

Lebanon indicts Lebanese Forces (LF) cmndr. Samir Ja`ja`, 7 other LF mbrs. for 2/27 bombing of church in Zuq Mikhail, nr. Juniya.  (MM 6/13; NYT 6/14)

Israel closes off Jericho self-rule area for 1 day after Palestinian police disarm 2 settlers.  Closure ostensibly to allow Palestinian police to organize.  (Qol Yisra'el 5/24 in FBIS 5/24; MM 5/24; NYT, WP, WT 5/25)

PM Rabin tours Gaza Strip to inspect IDF redeployment, new security fence.  IDF Chief of Staff Amnon Shahak tells Knesset comm. Rabin has ordered IDF to draft contingency plans in event agreements with PLO are broken.  (Qol Yisra'el 5/24 in FBIS 5/25; MM 5/24, 5/25)

East Jerusalem Arabic newspapers publish decree by PLO Chmn. Arafat reinstating pre-1967 laws in areas under Palestinian control.  Decree signed in Tunis 5/20.  Israeli F Min Legal Adviser Joel Singer calls decree violation of Gaza-Jericho agreement. (al-Quds 5/24 in FBIS 5/25; CSM, MM, WP 5/24)

PLO appoints Morgan Stanley Asset Management to manage foreign aid for development and admin. of West Bank and Gaza Strip.  (Algiers VOP 5/24 in FBIS 5/25; MM 5/24; NYT 5/27)

Israeli FM Peres arrives in Washington for 2-day working visit, including talks with VP Gore, Secy of State Christopher, National Security Advisor Lake, EPA Director Browner, and AFL-CIO officials.  (WT 5/24)

U.S. District Court in NY sentences 3 Palestinians, 1 Egyptian to 240-yr. prison terms in 2/23/93 bombing of World Trade Center.  (MM, NYT, WP, WT 2/25)

Palestinian negotiating delegation joins PLO Exec. Comm. meeting in Tunis. (MENA 8/29 in FBIS 8/30)

Hamas rejects Gaza-Jericho proposal, urges PLO withdrawal fr. peace talks. (al-Ray 8/29 in FBIS 8/30)

Pro-Arafat rally in East Jerusalem attended by 200 participants. (Qol Yisra'el 8/28 in FBIS 8/30)

Secy. of State Warren Christopher, at press conference, refuses to state whether U.S. considers East Jerusalem to be occupied. Stating "there is no shift at all in the United States' policy," he characterizes debate on the issue as "an almost theological discussion."

Fateh Revolutionary Council completes 10th regular session in Tunis. Communique reiterates Palestinian support for peace process and claim to Jerusalem, supports continuation of national dialogue with other factions. (Algiers VOP 7/23 in FBIS 7/26)

Extended Palestinian leadership suspends 4 days of meetings in Tunis, postpones decision on resumption of talks until 4/18-19 FMs meeting in Amman. Hamas declined invitation to attend. (RMC 4/3 in FBIS 4/5; Radio Algiers 4/5 in FBIS 4/6)

Palestinian Christians demand access to East Jerusalem on Easter. O.t. have been sealed since 3/31. (WT 4/6)

Fateh commander in Lebanon accuses Lebanon and Syria of aiding Fateh Revolutionary Council (Abu Nidal) to force Palestinians to resume talks with Israel, declares open war on FRC. Fateh fires rockets at Israel, landing harmlessly in"security zone," in retaliation for 4/1 assassination-lst Fateh attacks on Israel since 10/91. (WT 4/6; AFP, VOL 4/6 in FBIS 4/7)

Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) labor. mins. meet in Amman, first such meeting in Jordan since the Gulf war. Kuwait announces it will honor its compensation pledges to Jordanians and Palestinians who lost their jobs after the war. (MM 4/2, 4/14)

Hamas accepts Chmn. Arafat's 12/19 invitation to attend Palestinian leadership meetings in Tunis beginning today, is prepared to "transcend all previous disagreements" to close Palestinian ranks over the deportations issue. (RMC 12/20 in FBIS 12/21; al-Sharq al-Awsat 12/21 in FBIS 12/23)

PLO begins meetings with Palestinian peace talks delegation in Tunis. PLO issues statement criticizing Israel, the U.S. in the wake of 7 Palestinian deaths. (MM 12/21)

Hamas and pro-PLO UNLU issue firstever joint statement in o.t. canceling their independently called strike days, urging cooperation in "comprehensive escalation" against Israel to ensure return of the 12/17 deportees. Hamas and PLO activists hold joint rally in East Jerusalem. (MM 12/21; AFP 12/20 in FBIS 12/21; WP 12/21; Qol Yisra'el 12/20 in FBIS 12/22)

Ten Palestinian factions and Islamic Jihad issue separate statements condemning the deportations, as well as current peace talks. (QPAR, Voice of the Oppressed 12/20 in FBIS 12/21)

Meretz faction ministers meet with PM Rabin, urge him to open dialogue with the PLO, ease restrictions in the o.t. (WP 12/21)

U.S. Secy. of State Eagleburger terms the deportations "a terrible mistake." (MM 12/21

PLO Central Council meeting ends in Tunis, issues statement giving "green light" to peace delegates. Unity prevailed as opposition figures either did not attend, or did not voice proposals made earlier in public. Only the DFLP (Hawatima wing) rejected the majority recommendations, and withdrew from the final sessions. The PFLP voiced reservations but signed the final statement. (MM 10/19; Sawt al-Sha'b 10/20 in FBIS 10/20)

Four Palestinian factions participating in PLO Cent. Council meeting-DFLP (Hawatima wing), PFLP, PLF, PPSF-submit memorandum to Cent. Council rejecting all self-rule proposals and urging a pullout from peace talks. (QPAR 10/17 in FBIS 10/19)

Chmn. Arafat conveys condolences to Pres. Mubarak over recent earthquake in Cairo, then meets with Egyptian FM 'Amr Musa and PLO officials. Musa tells them he has received an Israeli "promise" to work toward finding an interpretation of UNSC 242 "satisfactory to all parties." (MENA 10/17 in FBIS 10/19; Sawt al-Sha'b 10/19 in FBIS 10/19)

One Israelis killed and 9 injured in roadside bomb attack outside a settlement near Ramallah, W. Bank. (Qol Yisra'el 10/18 in FBIS 10/19; WP 10/18; MM 10/19)

Three suspected collaborators shot dead in Nablus, W. Bank, reportedly by the Black Panthers. (NYT 10/18)

Funeral in E. Jerusalem for Palestinian prisoner who died after hunger strike, and a cousin shot at a protest supporting the hunger strike turns into multi-factional nationalist demonstration. (NYT 10/18)

Settlers stone Arab cars during second day of demonstrations iouthern Galilee after death of Israeli farmer 10/15. (MM 10/17)

PLO Central Council opens 3-day meeting of 85 out of 105 mbrs. in Tunis to assess Palestinian participation in the peace process. Haydar 'Abd al-Shafi and Faisal Husseini are among 6 mbrs. of the Palestinian delegation who are attending the PCC meeting. (Tunisian Republic Radio 10/15 in FBIS 10/16)

Reps. of 10 Palestinian factions meet in Damascus, issue 2 statements rejecting current negotiations and self-administration plans, calling for "comprehensive referendum" among o.t. and diaspora Palestinians on all national affairs. (QPAR 10/15 in FBIS 10/16)

Chmn. Arafat sends letter on peace process to Pres. Asad. (al-Safir 11/3 in FBIS 11/13)

General strike to mourn Palestinian hunger striker who died 10/14 is honored in E. Jerusalem, 6 W. Bank towns. "Hundreds" of prisoners in 4 Israeli jails resume hunger strike for same reason. Prisoners at Nafha prison end 19-day hunger strike after meeting with Israeli commission investigating their demands. (MM 10/15; Qol Yisra'el 10/15 in FBIS 10/16)

Israeli farmer is stabbed to death in Galilee, 3 km north of W. Bank town of Janin. (MM 10/15; Qol Yisra'el 10/15 in FBIS 10/16; NYT 10/19)

Yasir Arafat chairs meeting of mbrs. of PNC, PLO Exec. Comm., Fateh Cent. Comm., and Palestinian delegation to peace talks in preparation for PLO Central Council meeting 10/15 in Tunis. (Sanaa VOP 10/15 in FBIS 10/16)

Israeli commission and Palestinian lawyers and prisoners meet in Junayd prison, Nablus, and reach compromise accord on prison condition improvements, to be signed 10/20. Israel agrees to about 20 concession including improvement of recreation areas and medical treatment, curtailment of physical pressure, and extension of family visit from 30 to 45 minutes. Demands that were rejected will be studied further, and a decision given in 2 months. (MM 10/16)

Over 10,000 Israelis, including at least 20 MKs, demonstrate their opposition to withdrawal from Golan Heights in Katzrin. (MM 10/15)

Palestinian prisoner on hunger strike dies, apparently ofheart attack, in hospital in Ashqelon. Residents of his neighborhood in E. Jerusalem demonstrate. (Qol Yisra'el 10/14, 10/15 in FBIS 10/15; MM 10/15)

Palestinian youth is killed by IDF gunfire during clashes despite curfew in Khan Yunis, Gaza Strip. (Qol Yisra'el 10/14 in FBIS 10/15)

IDF and Border Police clash with Palestinian demonstrators throughout o.t., wounding 62 and killing 1 (in Bayta, W. Bank). Thousands march from Red Cross headquarters to the Civad building in Gaza City in solidarity with prison hunger strikers; ensuing clash wounds 41. Similar clashes erupt in Janin and E. Jerusalem. (MM 10/12; Qol Yisra'el 10/11 in FBIS 10/13)

Chmn. Arafat meets with King Hussein in Amman. (Radio Jordan 10/10 in FBIS 10/13)

The PFLP, DFLP, Popular Struggle Front, and Arab Liberation Front call for postponement of PLO Central Council meeting, scheduled to convene 10/15 in Tunis. (Algiers VOP 10/11 in FBIS 10/13

Secy. of State Baker continues talks with PM Rabin, joined by fin. min. and Bank of Israel gov. concerning loan guarantees. Baker also proposes U.S.-Israeli defense pact in return for Israeli readiness to withdraw from Golan Heights, parallel with Syrian readiness for peace agreement. (Yedi'ot Aharonot 7/21 in FBIS 7/21, 7/23 in FBIS 7/23; NYT, WP 7/21)

Baker then meets with 5 members and advisors of the Palestinian delegation, led by Faisal Husseini and Hanan Ashrawi. Ashrawi says the Palestinians would "tolerate" a near-total settlement freeze, as well as an accountable loan guarantee package. (NYT, WP 7/21)

Palestinian leaders submit memorandum to Baker calling on U.S. to resume dialogue with the PLO and halt all settlement construction in the o.t., including East Jerusalem. (Algiers VOP 7/20 in FBIS 7/21)

PLO Exec. Comm., PNC chairmanship, and general secretariat of Palestinian factions meet in Tunis to discuss Baker visit, Rabin govt., and peace process. (MENA 7/21 in FBIS 7/22)

Islamic resistance fighters attack SLA post in Tayr Harfa, S. Lebanon, damaging 1 tank, killing 1, wounding 4 Israeli soldiers. Israel shells villages of Haddathah, 'Ayta al-Jabal, Haris north of "security zone," conducts helicopter mock raids. (VOL, Radio Free Lebanon 7/21 in FBIS 7/21)

PLO Central Council concludes meeting in Tunis after heated discussions over whether Palestinians should continue participating in peace process. Council eventually issues resolution expressing support for continuing participation but linking participation in multilaterals with progress in bilateral negotiations. Council also decides that Palestinians will reevaluate participation in the peace process in October 1992. In wake of criticism of PLO leadership, Council also creates committee to study internal PLO structures. Nayif Hawatima, head of one faction of DFLP and who had been pushing for reevaluation of PLO policy toward peace talks and for reforms within PLO, expresses dissatisfaction with results of meeting [DFLP-Hawatima faction, PFLP, Arab Liberation Front voted against the resolution]. (Tunisian Republic Radio, Radio Monte Carlo 5/10 in FBIS 5/11; Voice of Palestine 5/11 in FBIS 5/13; MM 5/11)

Egyptian FM 'Amr Musa states no progress can be made in multilateral talks until bilateral talks lead to peace treaties. (MM 5/11)

King Hussein announces he will personally donate $8.25 million to restore al-Aqsa mosque in E. Jerusalem. Hussein intends to sell a country home in Britain to raise the funds [see 5/5]. (Radio Jordan 5/11 in FBIS 5/13; NYT 5/14; Radio Jordan 5/20 in FBIS 5/21)

U.S. investigatory team ends its inspection of Israeli Patriot missile batteries. (NYT 3/27)

Ateret Cohanim seminary opens four stores in Muslim Quarter of E. Jerusalem. (MM 3/27)

EC "troika" [three European for. ministers who comprise the EC's presidency] arrives in Cairo for talks on peace process and upcoming multilateral talks with Egyptian, Arab League officials. (Republic of Egypt Radio 3/26 in FBIS 3/26)

Israel allows direct-dial telephone service to 10 Arab countries (Jordan, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Algeria, Tunis, Morocco, United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Qatar, Yemen). Jordan's national telecommunications company states it will block incoming calls from Israel, asserting no bilateral treaty establishing communications has yet been signed. Decision to initiate service was made in Dec. 1991. (NYT 3/28)

Syrian FM Faruq al-Sharaa confirms Syria will attend peace conference but will not participate in subsequent talks on regional issues unless Israel displays willingness to withdraw from occupied Arab territories [see 9/26]. Al-Sharaa also states he will not shake hands with Israeli delegates at conference. (MEM, WP 10/17)

Tunisia, Morocco indicate they will take part in peace conference as observers. (MEM 10/17)

Secy. of State Baker travels to Jerusalem, holds discussions with PM Shamir, Palestinian negotiators. Talks with Palestinians centered on Palestinian delegation to peace conference. Two sides continue to disagree over Israeli demand that such a delegation not include Palestinians from East Jerusalem, a demand which Baker has urged Palestinian negotiators to accede to in order that the Palestinians not be left out of the peace process. (WP 10/17)

PLO delegation in Amman reportedly reaches agreement with Jordanian government over composition of joint Palestinian-Jordanian delegation under joint leadership of King Hussein and Chmn. Arafat. But Jordanian government states it has discussed the issue not with the PLO but "people from the occupied territories" in effort to stem Israeli objections to PLO role in choosing Palestinian delegates. (MEM 10/16; WP 10/17)

PLO Central Comm. meets in Tunis to discuss Palestinian participation in peace conference. (WP 10/17)

Clandestine al-Quds Palestinian Arab Radio reports statement has been issued in o.t. by PFLP-GC, Hamas, Fateh-Revolutionary Council [Abu Nidal], Islamic Jihad, Mujahid Islamic Trend, and Fateh-Uprising [Abu Musa] rejecting "conference of humiliation." (al-Quds Palestinian Arab Radio 10/16, in FBIS 10/17)

Israeli military court sentences Shaykh Aimad Yasin, founder of the Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas), to life imprisonment for ordering the deaths of several alleged Palestinian collaborators. Yasin was arrested in May 1989. (NYT 10/17)

PLO Executive Committee begins open-ended meetings in Tunis, awaiting response from U.S.-Soviet summit in Moscow to demands put forward in letter to Soviet Pres. Mikhail Gorbachev. Demands include: guarantees that peace conference will result in Israeli withdrawal from occupied territories, including Jerusalem, and granting of Palestinian self-determination; halt to Israeli settlement activity; and composition of Palestinian delegation by representatives chosen by PLO, including Jerusalem residents. (MEM 7/30)

Following meeting with Palestinian activist Faisal Husseini, French For. Min. Roland Dumas calls on Israel to accept E. Jerusalem Palestinians as part of Palestinian delegation to peace conference. Dumas states he was in contact with Secy. of State Baker, but did not claim U.S. or PLO support for his call. (MEM 7/25)

U.S. Senate adopts by voice vote resolution recognizing undivided Jerusalem as capital of Israel [NYT, WP 2/23; LAT 4/ 20].

Arafat says PLO has asked USSR to adopt specific measures to slow immigration of Soviet Jews to Israel; USSR announces Aeroflot will no longer issue tickets to Soviet Jews planning to emigrate to Israel via Hungary [NYT 3/24].

Israeli gov't. press office issues report on "Fateh-linked terrorism," claims Arafat and Fateh support some 200 terrorist groups [IGP 3/22 in FBIS 3/23].

Arafat meets with former U.S. ass't. sec. of state Richard Murphy in Tunis [INA 3/23 in FBIS 3/23].

Pres. Bush rejects criticism that his 3/3 statement opposing E. Jerusalem settlements led to collapse of Israeli gov't.; says he was "simply reiterating astanding United States policy" [WT 3/23].

Announcing his intent to "show how Israel PAC money is like the S&L influence scandal, only worse," Arab American Institute Director James Zogby says his organization will publicly monitor pro-Israel lobby's financial contributions to members of Congress; AAI releases initial report [WT 3/23]

Two small religious parties, Shas and Agudat Israel, suggesthey would not join Lidud-led coalition as long as Shamir is party leader [NYT 3/ 17]; Los Angeles Times reports growing pressure on Shamir to resign [LAT 3/17].

Senate Democratic Leader George J. Mitchell (D-ME) sharply attacks Pres. Bush for "heavy-handed blunder," that "contributed to the recent political crisis in Israel." Mitchell is referring to Bush's 3/3 statement [LAT 3/17].

In letter dated 3/16 from Sec. Baker to Rep. Mel Levine (D-CA), Baker softens U.S. stand on Israeli settlements in E. Jerusalem, writing "Clearly, Jews and others can live where they want, East or West, and the city must remain undivided" [NYT 3/13].

Arafat meets in Tunis with Israeli peace activist Abie Nathan, who spent 4 months in prison for previous meeting with Arafat [BVP 3/17 in FBIS 3/20].

Jimmy Carter arrives in Jordan from Syria for talks about Middle East [MET 3/27-4/2].

In London, King Hussein meets with PLO advisor Bassam Abu Sharif [WAKH 3/16 in FBIS 3/19].

Israeli military reports killing 3 Palestinians, allegedly DFLP members, inside Israel's "security zone" in S. Lebanon [MET 3/27-4/2].

About 500 Palestinian and Israeli women march in Jerusalem to call for negotiations between Israel and Palestinians [WP 3/11; FJ 3/19].

Jerusalem mayor Teddy Kollek says current gov't. crisis was brought on by Pres. Bush's 3/3 statement against E. Jerusalem settlements [NYT 3/11].

Arab League opens 93d ordinary session in Tunis; meeting is chaired by State of Palestine [TDS 3/9 in FBIS 3/12]. 

After internal debate, Likud party says Labor must agree to "basic and essential" issues before Israeli-Palestinian negotiations can proceed: (1) E. Jerusalem Arabs be excluded from talks and (2) Israel reserves the right to walk out of sessions if it believes PLO is trying to control or direct discussions [NYT, WP, WT 3/6]; Labor rejects these terms [NYT 3/7].

U.S.-PLO dialogue continues in Tunis, where Hakam Balawi meets with Robert Pelletreau [BVP 3/7 in FBIS 3/9].

In op-ed piece to Washington Post former Sec. of State George Shultz writes "some form of confederation between Israel, the Palestinians, Jordan, and perhaps Egypt seems as necessary as it is inevitable" [WP 3/6].

Quoting "regional officials and experts," New York Times reports changes sweeping E. Europe represent major strategic setback for Palestinians and other Arabs [NYT 3/6].

Arub Academy, a 2-year teachers' college in W. Bank, is reopened by Israeli army [WP 3/7].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: IDF chief of staff, Gen. Dan Shomron, orders soldiers to use force only when necessary to quell disturbances. P. M. Shamir's office prevents journalist Hanna Siniora from leaving for U. S. Shops open in Gaza. More than 40,000 Gazans return to jobs in Israel. General strike and scattered violence continue in and around E. Jerusalem [CSM, WP 1/25]. Soldiers use crowbars, break locks in attempt to force shops to open in W. Bank and Gaza Strip [FJ 1/3 1]. W. Germany's F. M. Hans Dietrich meets with 7 W. Bank and Gaza Strip Palestinians [FBIS 1/27]. Al-Sha'b editor Salah Zuhayka, arrested 1/14, receives 6-month administrative detention order [FJ 1/31]. Administration of Haifa's Rambam Hospital fires dozens of striking Palestinian workers [FJ 1/31].

Arab World: Jordanian police quickly disperse 150 protesters marching illegally to support Palestinian uprising in W. Bank, Gaza Strip, and E. Jerusalem [NYT 1/25]. Arab foreign ministers meeting in Tunis pledge financial and moral support for Palestinians inW. Bank and Gaza Strip, call for international peace conference [NYT 1/25]. Tunis and Egypt announce resumptionf full diplomatic relations [FJ 1/31].

Other Countries: Rabbi Alexander Schindler, pres. of Union of Am. Hebrew Congregations, criticizes Iraeli policy of "might, power, and beatings" in occupied territories as "morally wrong" [WP 1/25].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Curfews are lifted for Gaza Strip's Nusayrat, Burayj, and Maghazi refugee camps; only Jabalya camp and part of Rafah camp remain under curfew [CSM, WP 1/25]. In the W. Bank, old and new 'Askar camps and village of Bayt 'Ur al-Tahta remain under curfew; Hebron-region village of Sa'ir is still closed military zone [FJ 1/31]. Protesters blockade roads, throw stones in scattered incidents in Jerusalem and 'Anata refugee camp [FBIS 1/25]. In Ramallah, soldiers use tear gas, rubber bullets, and live ammunition to disperse peaceful demonstration; Palestinian bystander is shot in back, seriously injured [FJ 1/31]. Several people are injured, arresteduring clash between army and demonstrators in Hebron district's Bani Na'im village [FJ 1/31].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: P.M. Shamir acknowledges U.S.-Iran arms deal included promises to release Israeli soldiers [BG 12/9].

Arab World: Arab League foreign ministers begin emergency meeting in Tunis to discuss Amal-PLO fighting in Lebanon.

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli soldiers shoot and kill 12-year-old Palestinian boy, wound 6 [FJ 12/12; WP 12/9]. Preliminary reports indicate shot which killed the Balatta camp youth was not from army issue gun [FJ 12/12]. Shops closed in E. Jerusalem for third straight day [LAT 12/9]. Students at Hebrew University condemn the use of tear gas to disperse demonstrators, call for release of arrested students. Authorities close al-Najah University and old campus of Birzeit University. Al-Najah will reopen 12/16. Old BZU campus will open after Christmnas holiday [FJ 12/12].

Arab World: Continuing clashes between PLO and Amal forces at Shatila and Burj al-Barajinah refugee camps leave 2 dead, 8 wounded. PLO holds off Amal attack at Maghdushah. Syrian, Iranian, and Libyan mediators urge PNSF to call for acease-fire [LAT 12/9]. Cease-fire is broken less than 24 hours after going into effect, but Fateh announces 4-point plan to end fighting [BG 12/9]. 

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: New Arabic newspaper al-Nahar, staffed by pro-Jordanian Palestinians, begins operations in East Jerusalem; Publisher and Editor-in-Chief 'Uthman Hallaq says paper will represent view of "silent majority" [JP 3/7].

Other Countries: PLO Executive Committee and Fateh Central Committee have been meeting for 3 days in Tunis to decide on response to Hussein's 2/19 cancellation of joint Jordanian-PLO peace effort [NYT 3/8; JP, WP 3/9]. San Francisco Mayor Dianne Feinstein concludes 6-day visit to Israel, concludes port-call agreement with Zim shipping company, 14-point memorandum of agreement with Haifa Mayor Arye Gurel covering cultural and other exchanges [JP 3/9].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Two Israeli army vehicles traveling in the Gaza Strip are ambushed with a remote control charge, a device common in Lebanon but hitherto unemployed in the occupied territories; no injuries or damage caused UP 3/7]. American tourist David Blumenfeld is lightly injured by gunfire inJerusalem's Old City while returning from Friday evening prayers at the Westem Wall; police cordon off the area, find the weapon used, make several arrests [JP 3/9; JTA 3/10].