The Palestine Chronology

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers with military escort toured Sabastiyya, closing off parts of the town to Palestinians. Israeli settlers also vandalized Palestinian-owned homes and vehicles in Qusra. Israeli forces shot and killed 1 Palestinian, alleging that she attempted to ram Israeli soldiers with a car and brandished a knife near Hizma; it was reported that the Israeli soldiers left her to bleed out. Israeli forces also shot and critically injured 1 Palestinian teen during a protest against the Evyatar settlement outpost in Beita. Elsewhere, Israeli forces sealed off entrances to ‘Azun. Israeli forces also delivered demolition notices for 6 buildings under construction near Ya‘bad and ordered a Palestinian amputee to remove his vending stall on a road north of Jericho. 22 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in and around Beita, Tulkarm refugee camp, ‘Ayn Yabrud, Burqa, Sa‘ir, and Hebron. In East Jerusalem, 1 Israeli settler sprayed paint in the face of prominent Palestinian activist Muna El-Kurd in Shaykh Jarrah; El Kurd was subsequently detained as was the Israeli settler, who occupied part of the El-Kurd family home. In Gaza, Israeli forces fired missiles at Khan Yunis and Gaza City, causing damage; no injuries were reported. Israeli forces also made incursions and leveled land east of Rafah. In Israel, 4 fires were said to have been ignited by incendiary balloons from Gaza. (AJ, DW, GDN, REU 6/15; AJ, ALM, AP, AP, GDN, HA, HA, IN, MEE, REU, REU, SKY, TOI, WAFA. WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 6/16; CNN, PCHR, WAFA 6/17)

Euro-Mediterranean Human Rights Monitor submitted a complaint to the Universal Postal Union condemning Israel’s decision to ban all mail to and from Gaza as part of tightening Israel’s blockade after “Operation Guardian of the Walls.” No mail has entered or left Gaza since 5/8. (WAFA 6/16; HA, WAFA 6/18)

Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh arrived in Morocco for a 4-day visit, where he is scheduled to meet with leaders of the 3 biggest political parties. A reception for Haniyeh was given by Moroccan prime minister Saad Dine El Othmani. (HA, REU 6/17)

From the senate floor, U.S. senator Bob Menendez criticized senate republicans for fast-tracking legislation that would block all U.S. aid to Gaza, saying the republicans are using Israel as a pawn for their own “partisan political purposes.” Senator Menendez said the republican-proposed legislation “is written so broadly, that, for example, before delivering clean water or water infrastructure, the president would effectively have to certify that anyone related to Hamas would never drink that water or drink from a water fountain that carried that water. This is simply absurd.” (HA 6/17)

The Zionist anti-occupation organization Americans for Peace Now announced it had changed its position on U.S. military aid to Israel, saying it supports conditioning the aid. President and CEO Hadar Susskind wrote in Time Magazine that the events in Gaza, East Jerusalem, and Israel in May made it clear that “military aid without conditions neither serves U.S. policy interests—nor, I would argue, does it serve Israel.” (HA 6/16)

The Israeli public broadcaster KAN reported that the UK had started listing “Occupied Palestinian Territories” instead of Jerusalem on 1 of its journalist’s passports. It was unclear if the change was a result of a new UK policy. (HA 6/16)

ICC chief prosecutor Fatou Bensouda’s 9-year term ended and UK lawyer Karim Khan took over the job as top ICC prosecutor overseeing probes into war crimes potentially committed in the Palestinian occupied territory, Afghanistan, Myanmar, and the Philippines. Khan previously led a UN special investigative team looking at crimes committed by the Islamic State in Iraq. (HA 6/15)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers attacked Palestinians driving between Nablus and Qalqilya, forcing them to stop; 2 were hospitalized for their injuries. Israeli forces reportedly critically injured 1 Palestinian after they shot and injured him with live ammunition to his head during a raid in Nabi Saleh; others suffered tear-gas related injuries. Israeli forces also sealed off the main entrance to Beita with cement blocks. 4 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in and around Hebron and al-‘Arub refugee camp. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrested the prominent Palestinian activist siblings Muna and Mohammed El-Kurd, holding them for hours before releasing them on bail. Muna was arrested during a house raid in Shaykh Jarrah, and Mohammed turned himself in after being summoned. The El-Kurd family is 1 of 13 threatened by Israeli evictions in Shaykh Jarrah, with half of their family home already occupied by Israeli settlers. Israeli forces also violently dispersed a press conference held by the El-Kurd family outside of the Israeli police station, injuring 10 people, including 1 Al Jazeera journalist who was taken to a hospital for her injuries. (AJ, HA, REU, TOI, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 6/6; AP, WAFA, WAFA 6/7; PCHR 6/10)

In the West Bank, al-Ibrahimi Mosque was closed to Muslim worshipers due to Israeli restrictions during the Jewish Sukkot holidays. Israeli settlers with military escort toured Solomon’s Pool south of Bethlehem, closing the area for Palestinians. Elsewhere, near Nablus, Israeli settlers and military escort toured Joseph’s Tomb, leading to confrontations with Palestinians; 51 Palestinians were injured including 3 by live ammunition, 14 by rubber-coated bullets and others suffered tear-gas related injuries. 1 Palestinian was shot after allegedly ramming his car into an undercover Israeli officer’s car in al-Am‘ari refugee camp. Israeli forces violently dispersed a protest in Turmus ‘Ayya, injuring 2 with rubber-coated bullets and others with tear gas. Israeli forces shot and injured 2 Palestinians trying to enter Israel for work near Jenin. 9 Palestinians were arrested, including 8 during raids in al-Am‘ari refugee camp, Jaba, ‘Azun, Anabta, and Bayt Awa; the Palestinian accused of ramming his car into the undercover Israeli officer’s car was also arrested. In East Jerusalem, hundreds of Israeli settlers attacked Palestinians and Palestinian-owned property in Issawiyya; Israeli forces arrested 7 of the perpetrators. Some 400 Israeli settlers also toured the Haram al-Sharif compound. Off the coast of Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire and used water hoses on Palestinian fishermen 3 nautical miles northwest of Gaza City, causing damage but no injuries were reported. (WAFA 10/15; HA, HA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 10/17; PCHR 10/24)

The PA blocked access to some 50 websites to crack down on opposition voices and critique of PA president Mahmoud Abbas. (HA 10/22; MDW 10/23)

In Lebanon, thousands of protesters demonstrated against the Lebanese government’s plans to raise a new tax for WhatsApp calls and for the country’s economic crisis. (AJ, AJ 10/18)

The U.S. and Turkey agreed to a 5-day ceasefire in northern Syria to allow Kurdish fighters to leave the area. (HA 10/17)

In the West Bank, 2 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in and around Hebron. Israeli forces closed al-Ibrahimi Mosque for Palestinians, allowing settlers access throughout the day. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire on Palestinian farmland; no injuries were reported. (PCHR 10/10)

Turkey and its Syrian rebel allies launched a military operation in northeast Syria attacking Kurdish forces. (HA 10/9; AJ, 10/10)

Overnight, Israel makes an air strike on Gaza, killing 1 Palestinian preparing to fire a rocket into Israel. Between dawn and mid-morning, Islamic Jihad fires 3 manufactured Grad rockets fr. Gaza into Israel, causing light damage and slightly injuring 1 Israeli. Later, unidentified Palestinians fire 7 mortars fr. Gaza into Israel, some of which allegedly contain white phosphorous, causing no damage or injuries. Late in the evening, the IDF carries out several air strikes on training sites, rocket launching sites, and smuggling tunnels on the Rafah border, causing no reported injuries. In the afternoon, suspected Palestinian assailants leave a bomb nr. Jerusalem’s central bus station and convention center that detonates, killing 1 British woman, injuring 38 Israelis; the PA immediately condemns the incident; no group claims responsibility. In the West Bank, the IDF blocks a funeral procession fr. using a main road in Bayt Umar village nr. Hebron, sparking a clash in which 2 Palestinian mourners are wounded by live ammunition and 4 are arrested. Hours later, the IDF sends undercover units into Bayt Umar to raid and search a gas station, beating the owners and confiscating a computer. Several hours after that, the IDF returns to block the main entrance of the village with cement blocks and sand barriers. The IDF also patrols in Jericho (photographing the Intercontinental Hotel) and 3 villages nr. Ramallah; conducts late-night arrest raids, house searches in and around Hebron and in Tulkarm. (AFP, HA, IFM, IsRN, JTA, MNA, REU, YA 3/23; IsRN, JP, NYT, PCHR, WP, WT 3/24; NYT, WT 3/25; PCHR 3/31; JPI, OCHA 4/1)

In Syria, security forces make a predawn assault on the main mosque in Dara‘a, where antigovernment protesters have taken refuge, killing 15. Clashes last throughout the day and spread to 4 nearby villages. Over the succeeding days, clashes spread to towns and villages across the nation, becoming nr. daily events but remaining relatively small (in the 1,000s) and uncoordinated. Hot spots include Baniyas, Hama, Homs, Idlib, Latakia (which was reported to be “near anarchy”), and the Kurdish zone. (Only a few protests are reported in Damascus.) Govt. forces routinely dispersed the rallies, violently killing around 100 nationwide by 4/4. Meanwhile, Syrian activists mobilize through online social networking sites to call for mass protests every Friday until the regime falls. (NYT, SANA 3/23; NYT, WP, WT 3/24; NYT, WP 3/26–28; NYT, WP, WT 3/29; NYT, WP 3/30; NYT, WP 3/31, 4/1; NYT 4/2, 4/3; NYT, WP 4/4; WT 4/5; NYT, WP 4/6; NYT 4/7; NYT, WP 4/8; WP 4/9; NYT, WP 4/9, 4/10)

UN General Assembly (UNGA) opens its annual session in New York. UN Secy. Gen. Kofi Annan names Terje Larsen of Norway as UN special coordinator for the Middle East peace effort and as his personal envoy to the PLO/PA. Israel protests the appointment. (MM, WT 9/21; MENA, YA 9/21 in WNC 9/24; MM, WP 9/22)

On the sidelines of the UNGA mtg., Secy. of State Albright meets with a delegation of 16 Iraqi opposition leaders who are in New York to lobby for support of their efforts to overthrow Iraqi pres. Saddam Hussein. Albright urges other UN delegates to "join us in listening to these brave, free voices of Iraq." Of the 16, 13 are mbrs. of Iraqi National Congress (INC), 3 represent Kurdish groups. (MM 9/21, 9/24, 10/4)

Israel announces approval of some 14 military orders to seal off large areas of agricultural land belonging to some 79 Palestinian villages in the West Bank. (LAW 9/30; MEI 10/15; AYM 10/21 in WNC 10/25)

In Rome, the UN Comm. for the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People opens 2-day conference in support of the PA's Bethlehem 2000 tourism, development plan. (Reuters [Internet] 2/18)

Kurdish demonstrations against Ocalan's capture abate in Europe, escalate in Turkey. In the past 3 days, Turkey has sent 10,000 troops into n. Iraq to attack Kurdish rebels, has arrested 750 Kurdish activists in Turkey. To contain the scandal over their involvement in Ocalan's arrest, Greece replaces its FM, 2 cabinet mbrs.; Kenya reshuffles its cabinet. (MM 2/18; CSM, NYT, WP, WT 2/19; MM 2/23) (see 2/18)

IDF fences off the Lebanese village of Arnun to expand its self-declared security zone; says action is meant to protect residents fr. Hizbullah attacks. Lebanon accuses Israel of testing its limits under the 1996 April understandings, aiming to convince the Israel-Lebanon Monitoring Group (ILMG) that occupation is legitimate if it prevents Hizballah fr. using civilian populated areas staging points for attacks, which is prohibited under the understandings. (VOL 2/18 in WNC 2/19; NYT, WP 2/19; SAPA [Johannesburg] 2/19 in WNC 2/22; WP 2/20; MM 2/25; JP, MEI 2/26; MM 4/21)

Hamas spiritual leader Shaykh Ahmad Yassin enters a Gaza hospital with chest pains, high fever. (WT 2/19)

Israel's Labor party holds its primary in advance of the 5/17 elections. Party Chmn. Ehud Barak takes top position on the slate. (MM, NYT 2/17; CSM 2/18)

Netherlands FM Van Aartsen says Turkey's handling of the Ocalan trial should be a test for Turkey's membership in the European Union (EU). Kurds continue protests in Europe (home to 850,000 Kurdish refugees), Turkey over Ocalan's 2/16 capture. In Berlin, Israeli security guards fire on 100s of protesters who storm the Israeli consulate, killing 3, wounding 16. (MM, NYT, WP, WT 2/18; De Volkskrant, al-Rayah 2/18 in WNC 2/19; Frankfurter Rundschau 2/19 in WNC 2/22; MM 2/22; WJW 2/25)

Syria agrees to pay $500,000 to the U.S. to repair the U.S. emb. in Damascus, damaged 12/19 during protests against the U.S.-led attack on Iraq. U.S. says it considers diplomatic tensions over, will begin resuming visa services (suspended 12/22) on 2/28. (NYT, WP, WT 2/18; MM 2/25)

UN says it will hand over $84 m. to Kuwait for reparations to victims of the 1990 Iraqi invasion. Funds will be taken fr. Iraqi oil exports, which have produced $2.7 b. in compensation payments to date. (NYT 2/18; MEI 2/26)

Israel Defense Force (IDF) blocks Jewish settlers fr. occupying a building in East Jerusalem, which they claim to have bought fr. a Palestinian family. The family denies it sold the building. (JP, PR 2/26)

U.S. envoy Ross holds mtg. in Gaza with Gaza PSF head Muhammad Dahlan; also meets with families of Palestinian prisoners, Palestinian businessmen. (HA [Internet] 9/18)

In a drive-by shooting nr. Beitunia in the West Bank, Jewish settler open fire on 12 Palestinian teenagers walking home fr. school, killing 1, injuring 2. 1 settler, Avshalomm Ladani, turns himself in to Israeli security. PA denounces Netanyahu for failing to condemn the attack. (HA [Internet], LAW, MM, NYT, WP, WT 9/18; WP 9/21; MM, WJW 9/24; MEI 10/2)

PM Netanyahu affirms plans to build 600 new homes in Yitzhar settlement, where 2 setters were killed 8/5. (MM 9/17; QY, YA 9/17 in WNC 9/18; MM, WT 9/18; PR 9/25; MEI 10/16) (see 8/26)

Israeli police evict 25 mbrs. of the Beitar youth movement, connected with PM Netanyahu's Likud party, fr. an encampment they set up at Har Homa/Jabal Abu Ghunaym in East Jerusalem to demand faster settlement construction at the site. (MM 9/17; MEI 10/16)

As part of U.S. efforts to organize the Iraqi opposition, the State Dept. announces that it has brokered a settlement btwn. 2 rival Iraqi Kurdish groups, the Kurdish Democratic Party (KDP) and the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK). The agmt. provides for elections next yr. to reestablish a regional assembly in n. Iraq, which could lead to creation of a Kurdish federation. (al-Rayah 9/17 in WNC 9/18; MM, NYT, WP 9/18; MM 9/21; ATL 9/23 in WNC 9/24; MED Television 9/23 in WNC 9/28; MM 9/25; MED Television 9/25 in WNC 9/29; ATL 9/30 in WNC 10/1; MM 10/1, 10/12; MEI 10/16)

PA delegation led by Arafat dep. Abbas, Local Government M Erakat arrives in Washington, meets with Secy. of State Albright, special envoy Ross. (WT 4/10; CSM, MM, PR, WP, WT 4/11; MM 4/14)

In Hebron, 7 Palestinians are wounded by rubber bullets in the latest round of clashes with the IDF. Israeli Justice M Hanegbi urges security forces to be tougher on Palestinian demonstrators. (MM 4/10; IDF Radio 4/10 in WNC 4/11; WT 4/11)

German court rules that Iran's top leaders ordered the 1992 assassination of 4 Kurdish dissidents in Germany. In response, EU mbr. nations (excluding Greece) withdraw their ambs. to Iran in protest to that government's support of terrorism. Iran responds in kind. (CSM 4/11; AFP 4/11 in WNC 4/14; VIRI 4/11 in WNC 4/15; MM 4/15; VIRI 4/18 in WNC 4/21; CSM 4/25; WT 4/28; NYT 4/30; MEI 5/2; al-Ahd [Beirut] 5/2 in WNC 5/7; WJW 5/15)

PA, Israel continue negotiations on Hebron. PA wants Israel to commit to completing further redeployment by next fall, as set out in the Oslo II agmt. U.S. special envoy Ross meets separately with Arafat, Netanyahu. (NYT, WP, WT 1/1; PR 1/3)

For 2d time in 1 wk., Jewish settlers break into Palestinian market area in Hebron, claim it as Jewish property. Israeli police arrest 15 settlers, eject them fr. the site. (WP, WT 1/1)

Bomb explodes on Damascus bus, killing 11, wounding 44. Citing Lubrani's statements 12/23, Syria accuses Israel of planting the device. U.S. calls charge "wild and irresponsible," demands proof of Israel's complicity. (RMC 1/2 in WNC 1/3; MBC, RJ, SATN 1/2, RMC 1/3 in WNC 1/6; MM, NYT, WT 1/3; ITV, RMC 1/4, al-Dustur 1/5, JT, QPAR, RJ, SATN 1/6 in WNC 1/7; al-Urdun 1/6 in WNC 1/16; MM 1/7; SANA 1/8 in WNC 1/9; MM, WJW 1/9; MEI 1/10; JP 1/11; NYT 1/28) (see 12/19)

The mandate for Operation Provide Comfort, set up by the U.S. and its allies after the Gulf War to protect the Kurds in n. Iraq, expires. Turkish parliament passes an extension of the mandate, though the title "Operation Provide Comfort" will no longer be used in order to stress that the project now is largely American, rather than international. France ceases participation, stating that the UN oil-for-food deal provides adequately for aid distribution in n. Iraq. (MEI 1/10)

In Paris, Israeli FM Levy discusses peace process with Pres. Chirac, FM Hervé de Charette. (France-Inter Radio Network [Paris], ITV 9/10 in WNC 9/12; MM 9/11)

In New York, Israeli PM Netanyahu meets with mbrs. of the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations, visits Lubavitcher Hasidic spiritual leader Rebbe Menachem Schneerson's grave. (ITV 9/10 in WNC 9/12; MM 9/11; MA 9/11 in WNC 9/13; WJW 9/12, 9/19)

In implementation of cabinet decision 8/2, IDF Central Commander Maj. Gen Uzi Dayan signs order setting procedures for authorization of settlement construction, expansion in the West Bank, Gaza. The order requires local planning comms. to obtain permission of DM Yitzhak Mordechai at every stage of most construction projects. Settlers term procedures needlessly cumbersome. (HA 9/11 in IL 9/11)

Israel's Prime Minster's Office announces new "Israel 2000" program intended to make development towns and regions economically self-sufficient. Program will be implemented in 19 communities. Residents will be given housing subsidies, loans, stipends; municipal boundaries of these locations will be expanded. (HA 9/11 in IL 9/11)

In Hebron, Jewish settlers break into 4 Palestinians stores, confiscate their goods, occupy them. The IDF sealed the stores in the city center after the al-Ibrahimi mosque massacre in 2/94. (PR 9/20)

South Africa says it will not renew existing defense, economic contracts with Israel; though relations remain good, South Africa is adjusting to a peacetime domestic economy. (IDF Radio 9/10 in WNC 9/12)

Jordanian officials release al-Ahali editor Usama al-Rantisi after he is charged with "publishing material deemed as instigating public disorder" during the 8/16-17 riots. The 4 al-Bilad journalists detained 8/20, 1 fr. al-Majd, another fr. al-Aswaq are still in custody awaiting trial. ASB Secy. Gen. Tayseer Homsi is arrested for alleged involvement in the riots. (MM 9/11; JT 9/11 in WNC 9/12)

Jordanian Muslim Brotherhood (JMB) denounces self-described "West Bank JMB official" Sa'id Bilal for requesting that the PA license, and thereby legalize, JMB activities in the self-rule areas; says Bilal is not a JMB mbr. Hamas concurs, claims attempts to form a JMB branch in the territories is an attempt by the PA to divide the Islamist opposition. (al-Ra'i 9/10 in WNC 9/12; VIRI 9/16 in WNC 9/18)

U.S. publicly redefines its strategic interest in Iraq for the 1st time in 5 yrs., saying it is interested solely in containing Saddam Hussein's military operations nr. the Kuwaiti, Saudi oil fields, rather than curbing his influence in n. Iraq and assuring humanitarian aid to the Kurds. (NYT, WP 9/11) (see 9/9)

Iraqi delegation arrives in Ankara for 2 days of talks with PM Erbakan, FM Ciller regarding bilateral relations, establishment of "security zone" in n. Iraq. Iraq proposes instead that Turkey conclude a border security arrangement with the KDP to prevent PKK mbrs. fr. crossing into Turkey. (MM 9/10; INA [Baghdad], TDN 9/11 in WNC 9/13; Milliyet [Istanbul] 9/12 in WNC 9/17 MEI 9/20) (see 9/6)

In Jericho, PISMC meets for the 1st time since Netanyahu's election. (MM 9/9; QY 9/9 in IL 9/9; IDF Radio 9/9 in WNC 9/12; CSM 9/10; WJW 9/12)

In Washington, Israeli PM Netanyahu meets with Pres. Clinton, Secy. of State Christopher, Defense Secy. William Perry; rejects U.S. calls for redeployment in Hebron. U.S. urges Israeli to ease up on the Palestinians, issue more workers' visas. (MM 9/9; HA, MA 9/9 in IL 9/9; MM, NYT, WP, WT 9/10; WJW 9/12; MEI 9/20) (see 9/8)

KDP forces allied with Saddam Hussein take control of Sulaymaniyya in n. Iraq, capture key hydroelectric dam, force 1,000s of Kurds to flee toward the Iranian border. U.S. makes clear it has no intention of aiding the 200 INC mbrs. stranded in the Kurdish enclave; says it gave them ample warning of the attack on Irbil, time to evacuate. (MM 9/9; CSM, MM, WP, WT 9/10; MEI 9/20) (see 9/8)

Israel's Gold, PA's Abbas meet in Tel Aviv; no details are disclosed. (MM 8/30, 9/2)

Rigid Israeli police cordon, continued closure of West Bank, Gaza keep turnout low at al-Aqsa Mosque. On 8/28, Arafat called on Palestinians to rally at the mosque today in protest of Israel's delay of implementation, negotiation process. (MM 8/30; NYT 8/31; RE 8/31 in WNC 9/5; MEI, PR 9/6)

Israeli cabinet appoints the negotiations oversight comm. formulated by PM Netanyahu, FM Levy 8/18. Israeli Infrastructure M Sharon protests his exclusion fr. the comm. (NYT 8/31; ITV 8/31 in WNC 9/4; MM, NYT 9/2; JP 9/7)

U.S. detects Iraqi troop movements toward the Kurdish zone in n. Iraq, sends warning to Iraqi Pres. Saddam Hussein, orders troops to prepare for possible deployment to the Gulf. (NYT, WP 8/31) (see 8/29)

PA says it has released approximately 100 Hamas mbrs. in the past wk. (IDF Radio 9/3 in WNC 9/9)

In Washington, France, Israel, Lebanon, Syria, the U.S. resume talks on the function of the Israeli-Lebanese cease-fire monitoring group; agree U.S., France will be group's cochairs. (MM 5/20; MM, WT 5/21) (see 5/19)

Cmdr. of the Turkey's navy, Adm. Guven Erkaya, arrives in Israel for an official visit. (MM 5/20, 5/21)

Arafat adviser Faisal Husseini holds talks with Moroccan businessmen. (PR 5/31)

IDF arrests 13 Palestinians nr. Nablus, Tulkarm, Janin in connection with attacks on Israelis. (QY 5/20 in FBIS 5/21)

Turkish PM Mesut Yilmaz accuses Syria of backing the Kurdish Worker's Party. Syrian denounces the accusation. (SARR 5/20, 5/21 in FBIS 5/21; JP 6/1)

UN signs deal with Iraq, allowing Iraq to sell $2 b. of oil over 6 mos.; use money to buy food, medicine. (CSM, MM 5/22; JP 5/22 in FBIS 5/22; JP 6/1)

In Beirut, fmr. Lebanese Forces militia leader Samir Ja`ja` is convicted of murdering Phalange faction rival Ilyas al-Zayik in 1992, is given death sentence commuted to life in prison. (NYT 5/21) (see 6/24/95)

In al-Fawwar refugee camp, the IDF blows up the homes of the 2/25 Jerusalem and Ashkelon suicide bombers, homes of 2 Palestinians suspected of involvement in 8/21/95 bus bombing. (MM 3/20; QY 3/20 in FBIS 3/20; QY 3/20, 3/21 in FBIS 3/21; CSM 3/21)

In s. Lebanon, a Hizballah suicide bomber kills 1 IDF soldier, 1 SLA soldier, wounds 1 Israeli civilian [as reported], 7 IDF soldiers. IDF shells areas n., s. of the self-declared security zone, injuring 1 farmer. (MM 3/20; QY, RL, VOL 3/20, RL 3/21 in FBIS 3/21; CSM, MM, NYT, WP, WT 3/21)

PM Peres, FM Barak hold late-night mtg. on s. Lebanon, how to handle escalating attacks. PM Peres then briefs U.S. Amb. Indyk. Following that mtg., the U.S. relays sharp message to Syria, demanding it curb Hizballah. (IDF Radio, MA, QY 3/21 in FBIS 3/21; ITV 3/22 in FBIS 3/25)

Iraqi war hero Lt. Gen. Nizar Khazraji, fmr. army chief of staff, defects to Jordan by escaping through the Kurdish enclave in n. Iraq. (MM 3/20; WT 3/21; JP 3/21, al-Ra'i 3/22 in FBIS 3/22; NYT, WP 3/22; JT 3/23, JT, al-Ra'i 3/24 in FBIS 3/25; MM 3/25; JT 4/4 in FBIS 4/5)

Alleged Hamas mbr. Shadi Muslih 'Isa, 18, attacks Israeli police officer, civilian at Erez crossing point, Gaza Strip, and is shot dead. (MM 11/16)

16-yr.-old Palestinian student Rami Ghazzawi killed when IDF fires on youths stoning settler cars in al-Birah. 3 other students wounded. (MM 11/16)

Settlers in Hebron riot, overturning stalls at fruit and vegetable market and attacking Palestinian cars. (MM 11/16)

Israeli Justice M. David Libai, at Maale Ephraim settlement, warns settlers that no one could "take the law into his own hands," says govt. "will have to subdue any attempt to have influence by illegal means." IDF states it will act "firmly and aggressively" to stop settler assaults, will use "reasonable force." (MM 11/16; NYT 11/17)

PM Rabin tells Secy. of State Christopher 12/13 deadline for implementation of DoP may not be met. (MM 11/16, 11/17)

Israeli-Palestinian talks on implementation of Gaza-Jericho provisions of DoP resume in Cairo. Israeli delegation led by IDF Dep. Chief of Staff Amnon Shahak, Palestinian by PLO official Nabil Shaath. (Cairo TV 11/16 in FBIS 11/17)

Israel-PLO economic talks in Paris chaired by Fin. M. Avraham Shohat and PEDRA DG Ahmad Qurai' establish 3 subcomms. on trade and labor, taxation and banking, and currency. Subcomms. are to meet 11/23-25 in Paris, heads of delegations on 11/25. (Qol Yisra'el 11/16 in FBIS 11/17; MM 11/17)

Central Bank of Jordan (CBJ) Gov. Muhammad al-Nabulsi says agreement reached with Palestinians to retain Jordanian dinar as o.t. currency, have CBJ supervise and monitor banking. (JTV 11/16 in FBIS 11/17)

Multilateral talks on Middle East environment end in Cairo with Israeli-Arab agreement on Gulf of Aqaba oil spills, dispute on Israeli nuclear waste, Jordan Valley land reclamation. Delegates fr. 40 countries, in 4th mtg., agree on 20 environmental projects. (MENA 11/16 in FBIS 11/17; MM 11/17)

Palestinian leaders in o.t., Jordan, "and elsewhere" submit memorandum to PLO Chmn. Arafat criticizing PLO performance, demanding reforms. (MM 11/17, al-Ray 11/18 in FBIS 11/18)

Knesset Golan caucus considers bill fr. Likud and NRP mbrs. to amend law annexing Golan to require majority of 80 MKs for any change in law. Labor mbrs. of caucus express sympathy with bill, which given current Knesset divisions would effectively bar negotiations with Syria. (MM 11/17)

Syrian VP Khaddam tells foreign correspondents PLO Chmn. Arafat "fell into a big trap" in signing DoP, notes "There are 4 million Palestinian refugees living outside the territories covered by the 'Gaza-Jericho First' agreement." Khaddam claims Arafat "abandoned coordination with the Arab parties," states "I believe the majority of the Palestinian people do not support the agreement." (MM 11/16; SARR 11/16 in FBIS 11/17)

Hizballah offensive on IDF and SLA; Katyusha barrages fired in "security zone," assaults on 2 IDF, 6 SLA posts. 12 SLA mbrs. taken prisoner, at least 2 IDF soldiers and 2 SLA mbrs. wounded. 1 Hizballah mbr. killed in attack. IAF bombs 3 Hizballah bases nr. Ba'labakk, knocks out radio antenna. "Black September 13 Brigades," Fateh group opposed to DoP, claims responsibility for katyusha barrage on Qiryat Shemona. (MM 11/16, 11/17; IDF Radio, AFP 11/16 in FBIS 11/17)

Turkish FM Hikmet Cetin, in interview with JP, says Syria behind Kurdish attacks in Turkey, Israel and Turkey should cooperate on counter-terrorism. (MM 11/16)

Israel Archaeologists Society calls for end to govt. Antiquities Authority search for scrolls in West Bank ("Operation Scroll"), saying search aims at denying Palestinian scholars access to materials and will complicate future Israeli cooperation with Palestinians and Jordan. (WT 11/17)

Saudi Arabia and other 5 member states of GCC agree to send observer to opening session of any Middle East peace conference that Sec. Baker is trying to organize (cf. 5/11) [WP 5/11; MEM 5/13; KUNA 5/11 in FBIS 5/13].

F.M. Bessmertnykh becomes highest ranking Soviet official ever to visit Israel; no progress reportedly made in talks on overcoming obstacles to Middle East peace conference. Israeli officials express concern over Bessmertnykh's 5/9 remarks in Jordan [WP, NYT, LAT 5/11; JDS, IDF 5/10 in FBIS 5/10; MEM 5/13].

U.S. calls on Iraq to reconsider its 5/9 rejection of proposal to allow UN troops to protect Kurds in northern Iraq, allowing early withdrawal of American and allied troops from the area [WP, NYT, LAT 5/11].

UN announces the formal withdrawal of all allied military forces from southern Iraq and the establishment of a demilitarized zone inside the 6-mile buffer space separating Iraq and Kuwait [WP 5/11].

In rare move, Israeli Army cancels order to demolish house of Palestinian who was dead at the time the military decided to punish him [NYT 5/11].

Allied forces push 35 miles farther east into Iraqi territory to the town of Amidiyah, more than doubling size of security zone for protecting Kurdish refugees. Saddam Hussein orders the destruction of 1 of 3 state palaces and villas located within the zone because it could be used by allies for military purposes [WP, NYT 5/3].

Commander of UN Iraq-Kuwait observer force says all UN troops will be in place by 5/6 and that the remaining 4,800 U.S. soldiers would be out of southern Iraq by 5/8 [WP, NYT 5/3].

Israeli gov't. protests to U.S. over "snubbing" of Housing Min. Sharon, who, refused an "official" gov't. meeting, met 5/1 with HUD head Jack Kemp at Israeli embassy [WP, NYT 5/3].

Meeting in Cairo, PLO rep. Mahmoud Abbas and Egyptian F.M. Esmat Abdel Meguid agree that no Middle East peace process could lead anywhere without "a role for the PLO, the sole legitimate representative of the Palestinian people" [MEM 5/3]. 

Senior Bush admin. officials say U.S. wants Iraq to pay for American-led effort to help Kurds; operation is expected to cost over $500 million over 6 months [NYT 5/2].

Kuwaiti gov't. announces that the more than 400,000 Kuwaitis who have spent last 8 months in exile could begin returning home on 5/11 [WP, LAT 5/2].

Israeli Housing Minister Ariel Sharon meets with HUD Sec. Jack Kemp, but at White House insistence to avoid "official" meeting because of Sharon's pro-settlement views, talks are moved from Kemp's HUD office to the Israeli embassy (cf. 5/2) [WP 5/1, 5/3; NYT, LAT 5/2; CSM 5/3; IDF 5/2 in FBIS 5/2].

PLO spokesperson strongly condemns 4/30 stabbing death of French tourist in Bethlehem. Faisal Husseini sends victim's family cable of condolence. 19-year-old Palestinian surrenders to Israeli authorities and is charged with the stabbing [MEM 5/1; RMC, AVP 5/1 in FBIS 5/2].

Absorption Min. Yitzhak Perez says 17,700 immigrants arrived in Israel during April, and that some 55,000 immigrants arrived during 1st third of the year [IDF 5/1 in FBIS 5/2].

UNLU issues call no. 70, appealing for unified Palestinian response to Sec. Baker's peace initiative, warning that U.S. is trying to "impose an American solution to Palestine question," and condemning 4/30 stabbing of French tourist [MEM 5/2; AVP 5/2 in FBIS 5/3].

Israeli human rights group B'Tselem reports Israeli security forces killed 6 Palestinians during April, a 7th died after exposure to tear gas [FJ 5/6].

Having to leave Jerusalem abruptly because of his mother's death, Sec. Baker does not have chance to meet with Palestinians, but does meet with P.M. Shamir, F.M. Levy; Baker says in news conference before departing that Israel had failed to give responses he needed to continue trying to put together peace conference, and that he and Pres. Bush will have to reevaluate diplomatic steps [MEM 4/26; NYT, LAT 4/27; IDF, JDS 4/26 in FBIS 4/26; MET 5/7].

UN Sec.-Gen. Javier Perez de Cuellar announces that UN relief teams will take over Kurdish refugee camps in northern Iraq from American troops "as soon as possible" [LAT 4/27; MET 5/7].

Baghdad says it will disband its millionman militia, the Popular Army, and will let citizens travel abroad [NYT 4/27; INA 4/26 in FBIS 4/29].

Yasir Arafat, George Habash, and Nayif Hawatimah arrive in Khartoum to take part in Islamic Arab People's Conference [RMC 4/26 in FBIS 5/1]. 

At joint news conference in Damascus, Sec. Baker says his latest diplomatic mission has failed to bridge major differences between Israel and Syria over how to organize peace conference. Baker sharply criticizes Israel's 4/23 opening of new settlement [NYT, WP, CSM 4/25; DDS 4/24 in FBIS 4/25; MET 5/7].

Iraqi and Kurdish leaders say they have reached broad new agreement that will allow Kurds to return home. Jalal Talabani, leader of one of largest Kurdish groups, says agreement provides for new measure of autonomy for Kurdistan, and guarantees of democracy and pluralism [NYT, WP, LAT, MEM, WT 4/25; CSM 4/26; INA, RMC, AFP 4/24, ADS 4/25 in FBIS 4/25; MET 5/7].

Saudi Arabia says it will accept and shelter all Iraqi refugees in southern Iraq, and will build camp to accommodate as many as 50,000 people [NYT 4/25].

U.S. symbolically hands over American control of part of southern Iraq to UN forces; imminent departure of American troops is raising fears among refugees that UN troops will not defend them from Saddam's army [NYT, WP, LAT 4/25].

Kuwaiti official says new gov't.'s 1st act will be to downgrade relations with Algeria, Yemen, Jordan, and Sudan, which backed Iraq in Gulf war [LAT 4/25].

Knesset members from Labor, Citizens' Right Movement, and Mapam head Israeli delegation that leaves for Spain and international conference: "The Dialogue of Mediterranean Citizens." Palestinians from o.t. and PLO representatives are also attending [MEM 4/24].

U.S. ambassador to Israel William Brown files an official protest with Israeli gov't. about establishment and/or expansion of settlements in West Bank; Housing Min. Sharon says that Israel has no intention of meeting U.S. demands to slow or stop settlement: "... we built in the past, we build now, and we will build in the future" [MEM 4/25].

21-year-old Palestinian is shot dead in Rafah by IDF after he disobeys order to halt [MEM 4/25; FJ 4/29]. 

Senate approves bill that urges Bush admin. to propose international tribunal that would prosecute Iraqi war criminals [NYT 4/19].

Sec. Baker arrives in Jerusalem for 3d round of diplomacy; on Israeli radio P.M. Shamir cautions U.S. not to pressure Israel into taking part in peace conference not to its liking [MEM 4/18; NYT, WP, LAT 4/19].

Iraq turns over to UN information its chemical and biological warfare capacity and its nuclear facilities, saying it has complied with demands in 1st stage of UN res. 687 ending Gulf war (cf. 4/19) [WP, LAT 4/19].

Amnesty International study concludes hundreds of Kuwaiti resident suspected of collaborating with Iraq have been arrested and in some cases tortured and executed (cf. 4/19) [WP, LAT, MEM 4/19; FJ 4/22; MET 4/30].

Kuwaiti ambassador to UN in Geneva criticizes report as "based upon a few excesses . .. and ignores the general situation inside Kuwait" [KUNA 4/19 in FBIS 4/19].

For 2d time, Iraqi gov't. extends its amnesty period for returning Kurds [MEM 4/18; INA 4/18 in FBIS 4/19; MET 4/30].

Thousands participate in Gush Emunim sponsored march in West Bank settlement of Karnei Shomron in support of continued settlement; location of march is changed at last minute after IDF refuses to allow group in new settlement of Revava [MEM 4/19].

PLO approves of 4/20 meeting between Sec. Baker and Palestinian leaders from o.t., according to Palestinian media [MEM 4/19].

U.S. military sends troops and helicopters into northern Iraq to secure large sites for refugee camps; camps are to be built near Kurdish cities and as deep as 60 miles inside Iraq as part of effort to lure refugees home. Sec. Baker defends plan at EC meeting in Luxembourg [NYT, WP, LAT, MEM 4/18; MET 4/30].

Suspicious of U.S. motives, Iran refuses to comment on U.S. camp-building operation [WP, LAT 4/18].

At Luxembourg meeting, EC foreign ministers tell Sec. Baker that Europe wants role in any Middle East peace conference [WP, LAT 4/18; CSM 4/19].

Iraq says it has promised to return to Kuwait more than $1 billion in gold bars, bank notes, and silver coins taken during occupation [LAT 4/18].

Palestinian leaders from o.t. submit to U.S. consul in Jerusalem a list of 11 questions, the American answers to which would help Palestinians decide whether to accept invitation to meet with Sec. Baker on 4/20 [MEM 4/18].

Two armed guerrillas cross into Israel from Jordan, shoot 4 farmers in border kibbutz, killing 1, wounding 3 [NYT, WP, LAT 4/18; MET 4/30].

Arab trying to swim from Egypt to Israel is shot dead by IDF in Rafah [JDS 4/17 in FBIS 4/18]. 

Pres. Bush says that U.S., British, and French troops will set up secure camps in northern Iraq that could shelter more than 500,000 Kurds until they could be coaxed back to their homes [NYT, WP, LAT 4/17].

Inspectors from International Atomic Energy Association (IAEA) negotiate with Baghdad for permission to visit rubble of Iraq's 2 nuclear research reactors to see if country's supply of weapons-grade uranium is still intact, and if it is, to destroy it or remove it [WP 4/17].

P.M. Shamir meets with Soviet P.M. in London; Shamir says that diplomatic relations between the 2 countries would have to be established before Moscow could have a role at Middle East peace conference [WP 4/17].

U.S. calls new Jewish settlement of Revava "an obstacle" and questions Israel's timing, with Sec. Baker due to arrive on 4/18 [NYT, WP, LAT, MEM 4/17; MET 4/30].

Israeli navy shells boat carrying 8 Palestinians, allegedly en route to Israel. All are killed [RFL 4/17 in FBIS 4/17].

Israeli Central Bureau of Statistics reports Israel's population has reached 4.9 million [IDS 4/16 in FBIS 4/19]. 

Pres. Bush says U.S. "will not tolerate" any interference in its relief efforts for Kurdish refugees, adds that he does not want to see U.S. forces "shoved into a civil war in Iraq that has been going on for ages" [WP 4/14].

Israeli media report that P.M. Shamir had put forth to Sec. Baker Palestinian administrative autonomy plan based largely on Camp David [HAM, JTN, JAA 4/14 in FBIS 4/151.

U.S. begins taking control of relief effort for Iraqi Kurds by outlining plans to feed some 700,000 people daily and to set up temporary refugee settlements in northern Iraq [NYT 4/13].

New military deployments to northern Iraq, including personnel already on duty elsewhere in Middle East, will bring to 8,300 the number of soldiers involved in aiding Kurds [WP, LAT 4/13].

Both Syria and Jordan tell Sec. Baker that they would be willing to attend regional peace conference, but differences still remain on agenda and timing [NYT 4/13; AFP 4/12 in FBIS 4/12].

Saudi Arabia, facing severe financial crisis, seeks U.S. agreement to pay in oil rather than cash some of the $13.5 billion Riyadh pledged to offset U.S. Gulf war costs [WP 4/13].

Palestinian activist Radwan Abu Ayyash is released after 5 months in Israeli prison without trial or charge [MEM 4/12; FJ 4/15; MET 4/23].

Israeli Air Force jets bomb bases belonging to Abu Nidal's Revolutionary Council and Abul Abbas's PLF in southern Lebanon; 4 people, including a civilian, are killed [NYT, WP 4/13; BVL, RFL 4/12 in FBIS 4/12; MET 4/23]. 

After meeting in Washington with European leaders, Pres. Bush says U.S. and EC are in "total agreement' about the establishment of refugee shelters for Kurds in northern Iraq; Bush shies away from "enclaves" that could later be used as claim to statehood by Kurds [NYT, WP, LAT, MEM 4/12].

In Damascus, Sec. Baker reportedly tries to persuade Pres. Asad to agree in principle to U.S. proposal for regional peace conference between Israel and Arab nations; officialsay talks were "inconclusive" [NYT 4/12; MET 4/23].

P.M. Shamir and several members of his cabinet unite behind firm rejection of Sec. Baker's suggestions that Israel curtail expansion of Jewish settlements in o.t. as goodwill gesture for peace [WP, CSM 4/12; JDS, JTN 4/11 in FBIS 4/12].

Sec. Baker meets in Cairo with Saudi and Egyptian officials, reportedly discussing how Palestinians would be represented at peace conference [WP, CSM 4/12].

American officials admit that U.S., Saudi Arabia, and some other Arab countries are looking to groom new Palestinian leadership to replace PLO [LAT 4/1.2; APS 4/18 in FBIS 4/18].

Iraq extends amnesty for Kurds for additional week, as 4/5 offer of amnesty is due to expire. Kurds not suspected of felonies may return home without retribution (cf. 4/18) [INA 4/11 in FBIS 4/12].

European Community leaders, including P.M. Major, call on UN to create safe haven in northern Iraq where Kurdish refugees could be protected from further repression. EC offers $180 million in humanitarian aid to help Kurds [NYT, WP, LAT 4/9].

Sec. Baker visits Iraq-Turkish border to witness plight of refugees; spending just 7 minutes there, Baker speaks with refugees, says it is up to international community and not just U.S. to help Kurds [NYT, WP, LAT, CSM 4/9].

Palestine National Salvation Front, loose alliance of PFLP-GC, Fateh Uprising, and Saiqa factions based in Damascus, put forward Syrian-backed initiative for reconciliation with mainstream PLO after 8-year split. Move is seen by analysts as continuing effort on part of Pres. Asad to strengthen his influence over PLO [NYT, LAT 4/9].

Israeli Defense Ministry announces it will free more than 1,000 of approximately 14,000 Palestinian prisoners. Those to be released are Palestinians who were not involved in intifada violence and who have served most of their sentences. Official says timing has to do with end of Ramadan rather then Sec. Baker's upcoming visit (cf. 4/10) [NYT, WP, LAT 4/9; JDS 4/8, JPD 4/9 in FBIS 4/9].

First major element-about 100,000 troops-of U.S. Army's VII Corps in southern Iraq begins withdraw back into Saudi Arabia; move is expected to take weeks [NYT 4/9].

Kurdish leaders say U.S. used Voice of Free Iraq radio station to incite anti-Saddam rebellion [WP 4/9].

Kuwaiti opposition leaders refuse to sign on to new interim gov't., saying emir is not committed to speedy restoration of parliament [LAT, CSM 4/9].

Kuwait reports that 628 people, including high-ranking Iraqi officers, will stand trial soon on charges of war crimes [AFP 4/8 in FBIS 4/9; LAT 4/9; MET 4/16].

Yasir Arafat is quoted as saying Palestinian fighters in Lebanon should be allowed to keep their weapons to defend refugee camps in defiance of Lebanese gov't. order to disarm [MEM 4/8].

Israeli Army Col. Yehuda Meir is convicted of ordering his soldiers to break the bones of Palestinians during early days of intifada [MET 4/16; JPI 4/20]. 

Israeli gov't. imposes new restriction on Palestinians, forbidding workers to drive their own cars into Israel; gov't. also pledges to accelerate deportations of activists and affirms policy of house demolitions (cf. 4/1, 4/2) [LAT, WP, WT 4/1; JDS 3/31 in FBIS 4/1, 4/2; CSM 4/2; FJ 4/8].

Israel lifts curfew in Gaza Strip and some West Bank locations; Palestinians are still barred from entering Jerusalem [JDS 3/31 in FBIS 4/1; MET 4/9].

Iraqi troops retake city of Kirkuk from Kurdish rebels after 4 days of fighting; soldiers also take Irbil, 50 miles north of Kirkuk; thousands of refugees flee to Turkish and Iranian borders [LAT, WT, NYT 4/1].

In Easter message, Pope John Paul II condemns destruction in Gulf war, calls on world leaders to deal with plight of "oppressed peoples, such as the Palestinians, the Lebanese, the Kurds" [NYT, LAT, WT 4/1].

U.S. Anny announces plan to begin within 2 weeks to withdraw about 20,000 troops from southern Iraq, about 1/4 of its combat forces there [NYT 4/1].

Senior Iranian official accuses U.S. of misleading Iraqi people by encouraging them to overthrow Saddam Hussein, then giving Iraq "green light" to suppress rebellion [NYT 4/1].

Pres. Asad arrives in Cairo to discuss with Pres. Mubarak regional security arrangements in light of Gulf war [NYT 4/1; MENA 3/30, 4/1 in FBIS 4/1; CSM 4/1; MET 4/9].