The Palestine Chronology

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers open fire at Palestinian homes, uproot 10 olive trees, and bring their livestock to graze on farmland in Badia Umm Qissa in the Massafer Yatta area. Israeli settlers also place mobile homes on Palestinian-owned land in Wadi Rahal. Israeli forces raid 2 printing houses in Ramallah and Beitunia, destroying equipment. Israeli forces also issue a notice that Israel will seize 18 dunams (4.5 acres) of land in Deir Dibwan. Elsewhere, Israeli forces erect a metal gate at the entrance to Burin, obstructing movement to the village. Israeli forces arrest 20 Palestinians during late-night raids in and around Tulkarm, Bethlehem, Hebron, Nablus, and Jenin. In East Jerusalem, Israeli settlers tour the Haram al-Sharif compound. Israeli forces demolish a Palestinian-owned parking lot located next to the Yusufiya Cemetery at the walls of the Old City. In Gaza, Israeli forces bomb Khan Yunis, Rafah, Nuseirat refugee camp, Jabalia refugee camp, and Gaza City, killing at least 87 people. Israeli forces also storm the Nasser Hospital in Khan Yunis after besieging it for 25 days. 1 Israeli soldier is killed in combat. In Lebanon, Israeli forces bomb Naqoura, Labbouneh, Tayr Harfa, and Yarin. Hezbollah fires rockets at Birkhat Risha, Kiryat Shmona, and the Zarit military base. In the Red Sea, the Houthi movement says its forces attacked a UK bulk carrier. (AJ, AJ, AJ, AP, HA, HA, NYT, REU, REU, UNOCHA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 2/15; AJ, HA, HA 2/16)

More than 28,663 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces in Gaza, including at least 11,500 children and 7,200 women, and around 68,396 have been injured since 10/7/2023. At least 8,000 people are missing in rubble, including 1,700 children. 389 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces and settlers in the West Bank and East Jerusalem since 10/7/2023, including 100 children. More than 4,499 people have been injured. Israel reports that 1,139 Israelis and foreign nationals have been killed and 5,400 have been injured in Israel since 10/7/2023, including Israeli soldiers. In addition, 230 Israeli soldiers have been killed and 1,361 injured in Gaza since the ground invasion began on 10/27/2023. Over 1.93 million Palestinians, nearly 85% of the population of Gaza, have been displaced since 10/7/2023. There has been a complete electricity blackout in Gaza since 10/12/2023 due to the Israeli blockade. At least 70,000 housing units have been destroyed and 290,000 have been damaged in Israeli airstrikes since 10/7/2023, constituting over 60% of all housing units. 20 trucks carrying aid enter Gaza (UNOCHA, UNOCHA, WAFA 2/15; UNOCHA 2/16)

Hamas denies Israeli claims that it has a presence at the Nasser Hospital in Khan Yunis, saying on several occasions it has asked international organizations to inspect hospitals to debunk the Israeli claims that it uses them. Hamas calls the storming of the hospital “a continuation of the war of extermination.” (AJ 2/15; AJ 2/16)

The Committee to Project Journalists releases its annual report, saying 72 out of 99 journalists killed in 2023 were Palestinians reporting on Israel’s war on Gaza. (AJ 2/15)

The UN Conference on Trade and Development says the postwar reconstruction of Gaza will cost around $20 billion. (HA, REU 2/15)

The Washington Post reports that Egypt is building a wall along the Gaza-Egypt border in preparation for a scenario where Palestinians are forced to flee to Egypt due to an Israeli invasion of Rafah. (AJ, HA, WP 2/15; HA, HA, NYT, REU 2/16)

Peace Now releases its annual report, saying a record 26 new settlement outposts were erected in 2023 and a record 12,349 settlement housing units were advanced. (PCN 2/15)

PA president Mahmoud Abbas tells al-Sharq al-Awsat that U.S. officials have only offered him empty assurances regarding the 2-state solution that they never followed through with and that Hamas could join the PLO if they commit to its political platform and approve agreements signed with international bodies. (HA 2/15)

The Arab League meets to discuss the situation in Gaza. Arab League secretary-general Ahmed Aboul Gheit calls “on all parties that understand the gravity of the situation to act immediately in order to stop these crazy [Israeli] plans” to invade Rafah. (AJ, WAFA 2/15)

U.S. investigators from the embassy in Jerusalem visit the family and the scene of the killing of Palestinian American Mohammad Khdour, who was killed on 2/10. U.S. investigators have also visited the family of Palestinian American child Tawfic Abdel Jabber, who was killed last month. (AP 2/15)

President Joe Biden speaks with Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu, telling him that Israel should not proceed with plans to invade Rafah “without a credible and executable plan for ensuring the safety of and support for the civilians.” In a tweet on X, Netanyahu says Israel “continue[s] to oppose the unilateral recognition of a Palestinians state.” U.S. National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby tells reporters “I wish I could tell you that flour was moving [into Gaza] but I cannot do that right now.” During a phone call, UK prime minister Rishi Sunak urges Netanyahu to fully open the Karem Abu Salem (Kerem Shalom) crossing to allow more aid to enter. (AJ, AX, HA, REU, REU 2/15; AJ, HA, HA, REU 2/16)

The prime ministers of Canada, Australia, and New Zealand issue a joint statement calling for an “immediate humanitarian ceasefire” and voicing concern over Israel’s planned ground invasion of Rafah. (HA 2/14; AJ, AJ, REU, WAFA, WAFA 2/15)

Ireland says it will donate $21.5 million to UNRWA. (AJ, REU 2/15)

David Makovsky, director of the Washington Institute for Near East Policy, leaks details of the significant inducements currently offered by the White House to Israel if it would extend its partial settlement freeze for 60 days (to avoid a crisis before U.S. midterm elections). The U.S. goal would be to reach an agreement on borders within the 60-day time period. (NYT, WP 10/1; al-Sharq al-Awsat 10/4; JAZ, NYT 10/7; WT 10/13; JPI 10/22)

Mitchell returns to the region for meetings with Abbas and Netanyahu. (NYT, WP 10/1)

For the 2d day in a row, IDF troops on the n. Gaza border fire warning shots at Palestinians scavenging for construction materials in evacuated settlement sites nr. the border, wounding 1. In the West Bank, the IDF raids several Palestinian homes in the bedouin community of al-Hadidiyya in the Jordan Valley after complaints by local Jewish settlers that the bedouin were stealing water from Ro’i settlement. (PCHR 9/30; OCHA 10/1; PCHR 10/7; OCHA 10/8)

In the West Bank, IDF undercover units raid the Nablus homes of 3 AMB mbrs. (Nadir al-Sarkaji, Ghassan Abu Sharikh, and ‘Anan Sobeh) allegedly behind the fatal shooting of a settler on 12/24, killing all 3 and wounding 1 bystander. The deaths constitute assassinations, as the men could have been detained: 2 of them are called to surrender and are fatally shot as they leave their homes unarmed; in the 3d case, soldiers enter the home, and when the wanted man refuses to exit a closet and surrender, soldiers rig the closet door with explosives and detonate the charge, killing him. IDF soldiers surrounding the buildings fire tear gas to disperse stone-throwing Palestinian youths who confront them, hitting 2 (ages 12 and 19) with tear gas canisters, injuring them. PA PM Fayyad denounces the IDF’s failure to coordinate the raids with the Dayton-trained PASF units responsible for security in Nablus, which were in the process of conducting a police investigation of the 12/24 killing. IDF troops in the West Bank also conduct late-night arrest raids, house searches nr. Hebron, Nablus. (NYT, WP, WT 12/27; JPI 12/28; PCHR 12/30; OCHA 1/6)

Hamas officials in Lebanon confirm that 2 senior Hamas bodyguards and a 3d person (possibly a Hamas mbr.) were killed and 5 people wounded late on 12/26 in a large explosion at a Hamas office in the Dahiya neighborhood of s. Beirut (Hizballah’s stronghold). (HA 12/26; Associated Press, Wall Street Journal, WT, XIN 12/27; AFP, Kuwait News Agency, Middle East News Agency, MNA, YA 12/28; MNA, al-Nahar, al-Sharq al-Awsat 1/6)

The IDF expands military operations in Gaza, making at least 7 air strikes on Hamas, ESF, and PA General Intelligence targets in Gaza, targeting 4 suspected arms caches and 3 other sites (including PA Interior Min. offices in Rafah), injuring 16 Palestinians, damaging at least 25 Palestinian homes; sending tanks and bulldozers into the Strip to level agricultural land e. of Bayt Hanun; directing heavy machine gun fire at a rocket launching site in n. Gaza; conducting arrest raids in Khuza’a nr. Khan Yunis. Late in the evening, the IDF sends troops into Khan Yunis to conduct arrest raids and house searches. Palestinians fire 9 rockets fr. Gaza into Israel, lightly wounding 2 Israelis. In the West Bank, the IDF conducts arrest raids, house searches in and around Nablus, nr. Bethlehem, and in Hebron, Jericho, Jenin, Qalqilya. Jewish settlers vandalize Palestinian vehicles in East Jerusalem. A Hamas mbr. is fatally shot by suspected Fatah mbrs. in Khan Yunis. (OCHA, WP 5/23; PCHR 5/24; OCHA 5/30)

Heavy clashes btwn. the Lebanese army, FI at Nahr al-Barid r.c. continue for a 3d day. In Tripoli, a lone FI suicide bomber, still hiding from the police crackdown on 5/20, detonates a device when police close in on his location, killing only himself. Later in the afternoon, the Lebanese army halts its shelling of Nahr al-Barid r.c. in response to a shaky, undeclared cease-fire by FI, prompting some 10,000 Palestinians to flee. Palestinians in ‘Ayn al-Hilwa r.c. and Rashidiyya r.c. demonstrate against the army’s heavy shelling of Nahr al-Barid. (Independent, REU 5/22; DS, LBC, MENA, al-Sharq al-Awsat, al-Safir 5/22 in WNC 5/23; NYT, WP, WT 5/23)

4 Shas cabinet mbrs. submit their resignations, which do not take effect for 48 hrs., giving PM Barak a last chance to strike a deal with the party to keep it in the coalition. Meretz cabinet mbrs., including Education M Yossi Sarid, tell Barak they are willing to resign if it will help him reach an agmt. with Shas that would preserve the coalition. (MM 6/20; MM, NYT, WP, WT 6/21; AYM 6/21 in WNC 6/22; CSM, WJW 6/22; MEI 6/30) (see 6/13)

The PA says that per a request by U.S. Pres. Clinton, it will not push Israel to carry out the 3d FRD by the 6/23 deadline in light of Barak's coalition troubles. (State Dept. press briefing 6/20; AYM 6/20, 6/23 in WNC 6/27; NYT 6/21; MEI 6/30) (see 6/15)

Arafat convenes the PLO Exec. Comm. (PLOEC) to brief mbrs. on the Stockholm talks, to discuss status of the peace process, to set 7/2-3 as the date for a PLO Central Council (PLOCC) session to debate a unilateral declaration of a Palestinian state. (SA 6/29 in WNC 6/30; AYM 7/3 in WNC 7/5)

Agents fr. Force 17, Arafat's "presidential" guard, raid the Gaza office of 'Abd al-Fattah Ghanem, 1 of Arafat's advisers on refugee affairs, confiscating files, documents. (LAW 6/26) PA General Intelligence Service arrests without charge al-Sharq al-Awsat correspondent Abdallah Isa. The arrest comes 1 wk. after Isa was released fr. 2 mos. of detention without charge or trial. (SA 6/22 in WNC 6/27)

Nr. Qarni crossing in Gaza, a Jewish setter is lightly injured when a roadside bomb explodes nr. a convoy of settler cars escorted by the IDF. (IsRN 6/21; JP 6/30)

According to his spokesman, PM Barak is considering plans to erect a border fence btwn. Israel and the PA areas as part of a final peace agmt. (WT 10/23; WP 10/24) (see 10/17)

CIA Dir. George Tenet arrives in Israel for a wk. of talks with Israeli, PA political and security officials on prevention of terrorism, the "Iranian threat." (WT 10/28) (see 10/1)

YESHA mbrs. dismantle another uninhabited settlement in the West Bank. They had tried to clear it earlier, but were blocked by protesting yeshiva students. 5 of the 12 illegal settlements ordered removed by Barak have been vacated. (NYT 10/23; MEI 10/29)

The London-based al-Sharq al-Awsat reports that Sabri al-Banna (Abu Nidal) has asked Egyptian pres. Mubarak to halt a crackdown on his organization. Banna claims Egyptian security services raided and shut his Fatah Revolutionary Council (FRC) office in Cairo on 9/6, confiscating papers, detaining FRC mbrs., and freezing the organization's assets, which amount to $4 m. Egypt denies the report. (SA 10/22, 10/23 in WNC 10/25; MM 10/22; NYT 10/23) (see 1/26/99)

In Tel Aviv, the U.S.-Israeli Defense Police Advisory Group holds its 1st mtg. on bolstering bilateral defense cooperation. (JP 10/8)

PA police release 3 Palestinian journalists after detaining them for 24 hrs. of questioning regarding articles critical of the PA that they published in the London daily al-Sharq al-Awsat. (WP 10/2)

PFLP official Mustafa returns to the West Bank after a 32-yr. exile. (HA 10/1; JP, MM 10/8; AYM 10/21 in WNC 10/25) (see 9/16)

Jordan releases al-Arab al-Yawm editor Yunis, fmr. MP Abu Zant. (JT 10/3 in WNC 10/4; MEI 10/15) (see 9/29)

al-Sharq al-Awsat reports that over the past few days, Syria has released 225 political prisoners, including mbrs. of the Muslim Brotherhood, Salah Jadid group (breakaway Ba`thists), communists. (SA 6/5 in WNC 6/8)

Hizballah attacks IDF post in s. Lebanon, wounding 1 soldier. (RL 6/6 in WNC 6/9)

PM Netanyahu hold discussions with the FM, DM, national infrastructure M, defense officials regarding a document submitted several days ago by U.S. Amb. Indyk. The document constitutes a compromise document on Hebron, incorporating understandings reached so far btwn. the Israel, the PA; including clauses relating to continued implementation of Oslo, incl. Israeli commitment to a timetable for redeployment. Netanyahu says he has no intention of adhering to a timetable. (YA 12/19 in WNC 12/20)

Secy. of State Christopher says that special envoy Ross will soon return to the Middle East to "reenergize" the PA-Israeli talks; claims that the Israelis have made some concessions (unspecified) and it is time for the PA to reciprocate. PA denies Israel has made concessions. (NYT 12/20)

Israel expresses concern that the PA will expand the Gaza port beyond the agreed upon plans to create a commercial, rather than a fishing, port, in which case Israel would have no control over entering and departing craft. (MA 12/20 in WNC 12/23)

Arafat has private audience with the Pope at the Vatican. (WT 12/20)

Israeli FM Levy meets with King Hussein, PM Kabariti in Jordan. Levy, who is the 1st Israeli official to visit since the 9/24 tunnel opening, inaugurates the new Israeli embassy in the Rabiyya neighborhood of Amman. On arrival, He is met at the airport by a subcabinet-level official. (RJ 12/19 in WNC 12/20; JTV, RJ 12/19 in WNC 12/23; JP 12/28)

YESHA settlers' council ends 2-day convention; announces 3 "red lines" which, if crossed, will put an end to their support for Netanyahu. Action will be taken if Netanyahu does not go ahead with construction of housing units in East Jerusalem, Hebron; implements further redeployment fr. area C; does not allow "extensive and comprehensive" settlement. (IDF Radio 12/19 in WNC 12/23)

In Tripoli, Lebanon, an explosive device detonates nr. the regional Syrian intelligence headquarters, injuring 2 Syrian officers. Syria says that a civil-war era bomb detonator was accidentally burned with other trash, exploded. (MM 12/19; RL 12/19 in WNC 12/20; al-Sharq al-Awsat 12/19 in WNC 12/23; MA 12/22 in WNC 12/24) (see 12/18)

Iran's Pres. Ali Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani, his 240-mbr. delegation begin 3-day visit to Turkey. Iran and Turkey will discuss economic, defense cooperation. (MM 12/19; Milliyet [Istanbul], VIRI 12/19, IRNA, VIRI 12/20 in WNC 12/23; MM 12/20; IRNA 12/20, VIRI 12/21, 12/22 in WNC 12/24)

PM Rabin travels to Marja'uyun to survey conditions, meet with SLA cmdr. Antoine Lahd; returns to Israel, convenes emergency cabinet mtg. to discuss recent attacks in s. Lebanon, but decides against large-scale retaliatory strike. (RL 10/16 in FBIS 10/17; CSM 10/17)

Fatah Central Comm. convenes its 6th congress--the 1st held in Gaza. 469 mbrs attend, elect 11 to the regional comm. (Al-Sharq Al-Awsat 10/17 in FBIS 10/19)

Lebanese government, parliament petition Pres. Hrawi to stay on past the 11/24 end of his term due to "national need," paving the way for an extension of his term despite constitutional barriers. (MM 10/16; RL, VOL 10/16 in FBIS 10/16; RL, VOL 10/16 in FBIS 10/17; WT 10/17) (see 9/17)

IDF eases closure on West Bank, Gaza. Individuals may cross border, but Palestinian vehicles may not enter. (MM 10/16; CSM 10/18) (see 10/4)

Central Cmdr. Maj. Gen. Biran refuses to approve releases for 2 Palestinian female prisoners on security grounds. (MM 10/10)

PA cabinet approves new budget for the authority in the West Bank. (VOP 10/7 in FBIS 10/10)

In Khartoum, Hamas delegation fr. the o.t. presents exiled Hamas mbrs with drafts for PA-Hamas reconciliation agmt. Hamas spokesman Ibrahim Ghawshah says the mbrs abroad feel the agmt. is too concessionary, are threatening to secede fr. Hamas if it is signed. (VOP 10/7, Al-Dustur, JP 10/8 in FBIS 10/10; Al-Sharq Al-Awsat 10/8 in FBIS 10/11; MM 10/11; AFP, Al-Hayat 10/11 in FBIS 11/12; MM 10/12) (see 10/6)

On the Egyptian-Libyan border, 200-300 Palestinians block road outside customs depot in protest over their planned expulsion. (WT 10/8) (see 10/6)

At Israel's Qetziot prison (Ansar 3) in the Negev, Palestinian administrative detainee Muhammad `Abd al-Raziq Abu Shaqra is found dead. Officials say he might have been beaten to death, will investigate. (AFP 10/9, JP 10/10 in FBIS 10/10) (see 9/10)

Israeli security extends Ayshah Ayyash's detention to 10/13. (QY 10/7 in FBIS 10/10) (see 9/16)

PM Rabin reiterates offer to Syria of  "very small" withdrawal fr. Golan in exchange for 3-yr. period to "test" full normalization, open border, exchange of embassies. Pres. al-Asad rejects proposal again, encourages U.S. to offer new ideas to activate talks. Both say if there is no progress by this summer, there will be little hope for an agmt. before 1996 Israeli, U.S. elections. (WT 3/6; RMC 3/5, 3/6 in FBIS 3/6; MM, WT 3/7; MM 3/8; WJW 3/9)

Annual IDF intelligence assessment is presented to Israeli cabinet. Report is pessimistic about securing peace with Syria, says Arafat is not asserting his authority in Gaza, finds probability for war low but says violent acts will likely increase. (MM, WT 3/6; QY 3/5, HA, JP, QY 3/6 in FBIS 3/6; WJW 3/9; JP 3/11)

Arafat, Israeli Police M Shahal meet to discuss "pending issues." IDF claims Arafat also transmitted message fr. Iraqi Pres. Saddam Hussein to PM Rabin expressing willingness to sign peace treaty with Israel. PA denies claim. (MM 3/6; al-Sharq al-Awsat 3/6 in FBIS 3/7)

Senate Foreign Affairs Comm. Chairman Jesse Helms calls for abolition of all foreign aid; asks that $3 b. aid to Israel become part of defense budget; claims similar plan was proposed by Secy. of State Christopher but was shot down by VP Al Gore, Dep. Secy. of State Strobe Talbott, Undersecretary of State Tim Wirth. (WT 3/6) (see 3/3)

Israeli ships enforcing naval blockade of s. Lebanon fire on Adlun port, south of Tyre, killing 1 fisherman. (QY, RL 3/5 in FBIS 3/6)

Arafat postpones Fatah Central Comm. mtg., PLO Executive Comm. mtg. until middle of mo., citing upcoming visit by U.S. Secy. of State Christopher. (MM 3/6; al-Sharq al-Awsat 3/6 in FBIS 3/6)

Hamas' Imad Faluji offers Israel cease-fire in exchange for Israeli withdrawal fr. West Bank, East Jerusalem within 10 yrs, elections in which Hamas could compete with PLO. Israel rejects idea, says PLO is Israel's only negotiating partner. (MENA 3/5 in FBIS 3/6; MM 3/6; WT 3/8)

11th round of Israel-PA talks on elections start in Cairo. Both sides suggest bringing international observers into o.t. to help organize elections. (MENA 2/20, MENA 2/21 in FBIS 2/21; MENA, VOP 2/21 in FBIS 2/22; CSM, NYT 2/22; MEI 3/3)

Arafat convenes PLO Executive Comm. in Cairo to reassess peace process, detainees and elections issues, configuration and functioning of PA. 9 mbrs. attend; DFLP, PFLP boycott. Chief PLO spokesman and PA Information M Yasir `Abid Rabbu calls for suspension of talks with Israel. PM Rabin asks PLO not to suspend talks. (AFP, MENA, RMC, VOP 2/20, VOP 2/21 in FBIS 2/21; CSM, MM 2/21; MM, NYT, WP, WT 2/22; MENA 2/21, VOP 2/22 in FBIS 2/22; al-Sharq al-Awsat 2/21, QY 2/22 in FBIS 2/23; JP 3/4)

4-way (Egypt, Israel, Jordan, PA) ministerial mtg. on refugees scheduled for 2/26 is postponed until further notice at Israel's request. (al-Aswaq 2/22 in FBIS 2/22; RJ 2/24 in FBIS 2/24; JT 2/25 in FBIS 2/27)

Arab League condemns Israel for recent attacks on civilians in s. Lebanon, calls on UN to do the same. (RE 2/21 in FBIS 2/21) (see 2/19, 2/20)

PM Rabin gives Shas 2 unassigned portfolios--interior and religious affairs--giving Shas significant influence over ruling coalition of which it is not a part. Meretz M Yossi Sarid threatens to resign. (MM 2/20 QY 2/21 in FBIS 2/21; JP 3/4)

IDF arrests Hamas political leader Shaykh Jamil Hamami in his home in the West Bank following the "seizure of a very large quantity of inflammatory material . . . that incriminated him" during 1/27 raid on Abu Dis College of Science and Technology. (ITV 2/21 in FBIS 2/22)

Frmr. Nablus mayor Bassam al-Shak`a announces establishment of new group, Palestinian National Grouping (PNG; al-Tajammu` al-Watani al-Filistini), opposed to Oslo Accord, calls on Arafat to resign. Group includes independents, mbrs. of Islamic Jihad, DFLP, PFLP. (QPAR, QY 2/22 in FBIS 2/23; RMC 2/25 in FBIS 2/26; ITV 2/25, QY 2/27 in FBIS 2/27; MA 2/26 in FBIS 2/28; al-Quds, SARR 2/28 in FBIS 3/1)

In response to German reports that Israel, Iran are negotiating release of Israeli airman Ron Arad, PM Rabin admits Germany has been talking to Iran on Israel's behalf but has had no success. (ITV 2/20, QY 2/21, 2/22 in FBIS 2/22; MM, WP 2/21; IDF radio 2/21 in FBIS 2/21; MM, NYT 2/22; WT 2/27; JP 3/4, 3/11; WJW 3/16)

Egyptian parliamentarians denounce Israel for hostility toward Egypt, "reaping benefits of peace" while refusing to sign NPT, move forward on Palestinian self-rule, or withdraw fr. Golan. Israeli Pres. Weizman telephones Pres. Mubarak to discuss worsening relations, fears that conflict with Egypt could derail peace talks. (MENA 1/16 in FBIS 1/17; MM 1/17; WJW, WP 1/19; WJW 1/26)

Israel gives Egypt most favored nation (MNF) trading status retroactive to 1/1/95. (MENA 1/16 in FBIS 1/17) (see 1/3)

Arafat, Jordanian FM al-Kabariti meet in Morocco. Meanwhile, Jordanian PM Shakir meets with Nablus Chamber of Commerce delegation in Amman to discuss cooperation btwn. Jordan, PA. (RJ 1/16 in FBIS 1/19; MEI 1/20)

Israeli FMin. says it will begin canvassing embassies to see how many will be willing to move to Jerusalem after final status negotiations so FMin. can begin rezoning areas for construction. (MM 1/16)

PM Rabin authorizes confiscation of Palestinian lands for construction of 4 roads in West Bank (2 nr. Ramallah, 1 nr. Tulkarm, 1 nr. Hebron) so settlers can bypass Arab towns. (MM 1/16; QY 1/16 in FBIS 1/17) (see 1/15)

Israeli Housing M Ben-Eliezer circulates draft of report he will submit to cabinet 1/22. Report plans 77% increase in construction activity for 1995 as compared to 1994, mostly in Jerusalem area. (ITV 1/16 in FBIS 1/17; MM 1/20)

DFLP head Nayif Hawatmah applies to Israeli FMin. (via Russian FMin.) for permission to move to Gaza with several supporters. Israeli FMin. says it has passed application on to security officials for review. (MM 1/16; QY, VOL 1/16 in FBIS 1/17; Al-Sharq Al-Awsat 1/17 in FBIS 1/19; MEI 1/20)

Israeli police raid East Jerusalem offices of al-Quds newspaper; confiscate papers, equipment; say they suspect office of being Hamas base. (QY 1/16 in FBIS 1/17)

Lebanese army shells IDF, SLA positions for 1st time in 2 yrs. in response to Israeli attack 1/15. (HA 1/17 in FBIS 1/17)

Israeli parliament passes law by vote of 56 to 6 (with 32 abstentions), banning official Palestinian activities in Jerusalem that could close Orient House in Jerusalem, PLO's de facto FMin. (IDF Radio 12/26 in FBIS 12/27; Al-Sharq Al-Awsat 12/27 in FBIS 12/29; WT 12/28; IGPO 1/4 in FBIS 1/6; MEI 1/6; JP 1/7)

PM Rabin secretly flies to Oman at invitation of Sultan Qabus, making 1st official visit by Israeli leader. (AFP, QY 12/26 in FBIS 12/27; NYT 12/28)

Israeli Amb. to the UN Gad Ya'aqobi says possibility of stationing military forces, observers in Golan within framework of peace agmt. btwn. Israel, Syria has been discussed in closed-door meetings at UN, informally btwn. UN representatives. (QY 12/26 in FBIS 12/27)

Arafat announces he will soon visit Jordan; King Hussein phones him to discuss visit. (VOP 12/26 in FBIS 12/28; Al-Quds 1/1 in FBIS 1/3)

Outgoing IDF Chief of Staff Baraq claims IDF is running successful secret operations against Hizballah "very far beyond" the self-declared security zone, in northern Lebanon, hence there is no need to expand zone. (IDF Radio 12/26 in FBIS 12/27)

Israeli West Bank Civil Administration declares disputed territory nr. Efrat state land, orders Arabs to evacuate. (IDF Radio 12/26 in FBIS 12/27) (see 12/24)

Arafat's advisor Faisal Husseini, Jordan's Crown Prince Hassan meet in Amman for talks on Jerusalem, reportedly clear way for Arafat visit to Amman. (WT 12/4; RMC 12/2, RJ 12/3, VOP 12/3, 12/4, Al-Dustur 12/4 in FBIS 12/5)

Arafat names PA Culture M `Abid Rabbu new head of delegation to elections talks in Cairo, replacing Mahmud 'Abbas ("Abu Mazen") who is protesting Arafat's handing of PA. (Al-Sharq Al-Awsat 12/5 in FBIS 12/6)

Ban placed on 4 newspapers by PA 11/28 is lifted. (NYT, PR 12/4)

Haaretz leaks Israeli FMin. memo on how Israel should deal with new Republican turnover in U.S. Congress. Memo urges AIPAC to overhaul its organization to lobby more effectively. (MEI 12/2, 12/16)

Arafat forms tripartite comm. (Fateh, Hamas, PA) to calm tensions following 11/18 violence. Islamic Jihad is angered that it is not included. (Al-Sharq Al-Awsat 12/6 in FBIS 12/9)

Lebanese PM Rafiq Hariri resigns, says it is impossible to work with cabinet crippled by continued influence of militias. (MM 12/2; RL 12/2 in FBIS 12/2; NYT, WP 12/3; AFP 12/2, 12/3 in FBIS 12/5)

Rabin tours Capitol Hill seeking Congressional support for peace process, possible future use of U.S. troops as peace monitors. (QY 11/23 in FBIS 11/23; NYT 11/23; CSM 12/2)

Israeli Dep. FM Yosi Beilin meets with Saudi diplomats, businessmen, representatives of other Arab countries and U.S. at conference in Aspen, CO, regarding joint business ventures in light of peace process. Saudi Arabia promise to finance industrial development in Gaza. (MM 11/22, QY 11/22 in FBIS 11/23; MEI 12/16)

Joint Jordanian-Israeli transportation comm. meets in Amman, discusses aviation, tourist transportation, maritime transport for small vehicles btwn. the 2 countries. (RJ 11/22 in FBIS 11/23)

7 Fateh Central Comm. mbrs. meeting in Tunis issue statement critical of Arafat's handling of violence 11/18; statement contradicts Fateh declaration fr. inside o.t. exonerating Arafat. (Al-Sharq Al-Awsat 11/25 in FBIS 11/29) (see 11/20)

IDF demolishes house of family of Hamas mbr. who bombed bus in Tel Aviv 10/19. (QY 11/22 in FBIS 11/22)

Arafat holds mtgs. with Fateh, Islamic groups; indirectly accuses Israel of sparking 11/18 violence in attempt to assassinate Hamas leaders; releases 31 Islamic Jihad mbrs. fr. jail to appease opposition. Protests continue, Hamas asks Arafat to fire Justice M Frayh Abu-Midyan, 2 senior police officials. (NYT, WP, WT 11/21; VOP 11/20, 11/21 in FBIS 11/22, MM 11/22; PR 11/27; MEI 12/2)

PM Rabin states some Israelis are acting with "criminal irresponsibility" by "spreading lies" in the U.S. to discourage U.S. government fr. stationing of troops in Golan, asks embassy staff in U.S. to confront them. (IDF Radio, QY 11/21 in FBIS 11/21) (see 9/29)

Israeli FM Shimon Peres suggests Israel ease economic pressure on PA by giving PA $13 m. in tax money collected fr. Palestinians working in Israel. Some MKs oppose suggestion, saying Israel should not fund Palestinian autonomy. (QY 11/20 in FBIS 11/21; WP 11/21)

Sen. Helms calls Syrian efforts at peace a "fraud," says he will oppose U.S. troop presence in Golan as head of Foreign Relations Comm. (QY 11/20, Davar 11/21 in FBIS 11/21; NYT, WP 11/22)

PM Rabin orders more troops to guard settlements in Gaza Strip. (WP, WT 11/21)

7 Fateh Central Comm. mbrs. living outside autonomous areas hold mtg. in Tunis to discuss 11/18 violence. (Al-Sharq Al-Awsat 11/25 in FBIS 11/29)

New weekly newspaper Al-Hayat Al-Jadid is issued in o.t., claiming to be "new opposition," accepting PA while improving its performance fr. within. It is published by frmr. PLO Amb. to Moscow Nabil `Amr, edited by Hafiz Barghouti. (PR 11/20)

Gazans eject Arafat from funeral of Hani Abed as 1000's protest Arafat's leadership, blame Israel for car bombing. (MM 11/3; IDF Radio, QY 11/3 in FBIS 11/4; CSM, WP, WT 11/4; JP 11/5)

More than 3,500 Palestinians return to work in Israel as closure of West Bank, Gaza is lifted further. Rabin approves permits for 5,000 others. (QY 11/3 in FBIS 11/3; QY 11/3 in FBIS 11/4)

Arafat meets with delegation fr. Hamas, Islamic Jihad to discuss Abed assassination. (VOP 11/4 in FBIS 11/7)

Israeli Housing Min. notes largest ever rise in number of people moving to Qatzrin settlement in Golan--345 in past 3 mos.; says Min. will sell 120 remaining apartments within weeks, will provide buyers with government subsidized mortgages. (Yedi'ot Aharonot 11/3 in FBIS 11/4)

Fateh Central Comm. holds elections, elects younger men more critical of PNA, rejects Arafat's proposal to hold regular mtgs. in Gaza despite PM Rabin's approval for mbrs. to enter autonomous areas. Arafat displeased. (Al-Sharq al-Awsat 11/3 in FBIS 11/4; VOP 11/6, JP 11/7 in FBIS 11/9)

Hamas extends deadline for release of 200-300 prisoners by 24 hrs. Within 1 hr., based on information from Arafat, IDF raids West Bank house where IDF soldier is being held. Kidnapped soldier, 1 other soldier killed, 12 wounded by kidnappers; 3 Hamas mbrs. killed, 2 arrested. Location of soldier in Israeli o.t. embarrasses PM Rabin, who swore he was in PNA controlled Gaza. Rabin vows to resume talks with PNA as soon as possible. (ITV, QY 10/14 in FBIS 10/17; NYT, WP, WT 10/15; CSM, MM 10/17; JP 10/22)

U.S. Secy. of State Christopher, Egyptian Pres. Mubarak, PLO Chmn. Arafat hold talks in Cairo; discuss aid transfers, Hamas, other obstacles to peace. (MENA, RE 10/13 in FBIS 10/14, MM 10/14)

Multilateral arms control seminar on threat assessment closes in Paris. Positions presented, no draft document signed, but gaps btwn. parties "narrow significantly." Teams leave for Germany to attend military maneuvers. (Davar 10/14 in FBIS 10/17)

Israel gives PNA power to collect customs tariffs, conduct searches at Allenby Bridge. (VOP 10/14 in FBIS 1021)

PFLP's George Habbash, DFLP's Hawatmeh announce they want to unify the 2 groups into 1, inc. administration, finance, military, intelligence. (Al-Sharq Al-Awsat 10/14 in FBIS 10/18)

IDF receives map specifying 1st line of withdrawal fr. Golan. Only Druze settlements of Majdal Shams, Mas'adah, Buq'ata would be turned over to Syria in 1st stage, no Israeli settlements uprooted, some IDF security outposts removed. Syrian govt. said to already have map. (ITV 10/4 in FBIS 10/5)

Israeli-PNA talks on elections, hit snag when Israel objects to letting mbrs. of radical groups vote or run. Rothschild says, "We are not going to establish a creature which will then fight us." Erakat says Israel is stymieing Palestinian democracy. PNA backs down on demand for separate exec., legislative councils, agrees to 1 council serving both purposes. (WT 10/5; NYT 10/6; MEI 10/7)

U.S. State Dept. issues annual report on Israeli settlements; says Israel spent $311.8 m. on nonsecurity settlement building in 1993, $95 m. of which served U.S. security interests, hence only $216.8 m. would be deducted fr. Israel's loan guarantees. (MEI 11/4)

DFLP concludes annual conference in Damascus, reelects Hawatmeh as SG. (Al-Sharq al-Awsat 10/5 in FBIS 10/5)

Palestinian police release 20 DFLP mbrs. arrested following attack on joint patrol 9/30, say 30 are still being detained. (VOP 10/5 in FBIS 10/5)

Israel, Jordan conclude economic agmt. permitting Jordan to export up to $30 m. of goods to West Bank through Palestinian merchants licensed by PNA. (QY 8/16 in FBIS 8/17; NYT 8/17; JP 8/27)

Syrian FM Faruq al-Shara` briefs Egyptian Pres. Husni Mubarak on U.S. Secy. of State Warren Christopher's visit to Damascus. Shara` reports Israel willing to withdraw fr. Golan in 2 yrs; Syria wants withdrawal within months. (WT 8/17)

Jordan's King Hussein cancels trip to Jerusalem to attend Mulid al-Nabi prayers. (MEI 8/26)

Monsignor Andrea Cordero Lanza di Montezemolo takes up his position as 1st Vatican amb. to Israel. (WT 9/6)

PNA announces it will begin disarming civilians. Civilians have 2-wk. grace period to obtain gun permits. (al-Sharq al-Awsat 8/16 in FBIS 8/17)

Palestinian police arrest 3 Hamas mbrs. in connection with 8/14 shooting. (QY 8/17 in FBIS 8/17)

DFLP Central Comm. dismisses 10 Politburo, Central Com. mbrs. for urging front to join PNA as "constructive opposition." (WT 8/17; al-Sharq al-Awsat 8/16 in FBIS 8/17)

U.S. demands Israel end any secret contacts with Iraq after learning Israeli Lebanon coordinator Uri Lubrani had met with Iraqi officials. (WT 8/17)

3 South Lebanon Army (SLA) mbrs. killed by Hizballah in ambush in southern Lebanon. IDF, SLA shell Hizballah targets. (MEI 8/26)

Palestinian police stop IDF vehicles carrying IDF Brig. Gen. Doron Almog in Gaza Strip.  Standoff continues for 1 hr. until Palestinian police col. issues written order to permit Almog to continue.  (WP 5/26)

Israeli-Palestinian agricultural trade talks open in Tel Aviv to regulate commerce in agricultural products btwn. Israel, self-rule areas.  (Qol Yisra'el 5/25 in FBIS 5/26)

Secy of State Christopher, FM Peres, at joint news conference in Washington, criticize PLO Chmn. Arafat's decree restoring pre-1967 laws in Gaza and Jericho, saying Arafat lacks authority for such a decree.  Israeli FMin. issues statement saying Arafat statement of "no legal validity" and a "breach" of Gaza-Jericho agreement.  (Israeli Govt. Press Office release 5/25 in FBIS 5/25; MM 5/25; MM, NYT 5/26)

PLO Chmn. Arafat orders release of his wife's uncle George Hawa, held for 5 days by PLO officials in Tunis on suspicion of taking kickbacks fr. companies seeking contracts in Jericho, Gaza Strip.  (MM 5/25; WP 5/26; al-Sharq al-Awsat 5/27 in FBIS 6/1)

Trial starts in Beirut of 7 mbrs. of FRC ("Abu Nidal" group) for 1/29 murder of Jordanian diplomat.  (MM 5/25, 5/26)

U.S. Secy. of State Christopher, Egyptian Pres. Mubarak, Israeli FM Peres, and PLO Chmn. Arafat meet in Cairo, announce breakthrough on Gaza-Jericho agreement. Reportedly size of Jericho, duties of Palestinian police at border crossings, telephone and postal service remain to be resolved. Arafat and PM Rabin are to meet in Cairo 5/3 to resolve outstanding issues, sign self-rule accord 5/4. Christopher agrees to extend stay in region until signing, proceeds to Tel Aviv to discuss Israeli negotiations with Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria with PM Rabin. (MM 4/28; CSM, NYT, WP, WT 4/29)

Jerusalem District Court finds settler guilty of premeditated murder in 3/93 killing in Susia settlement nr. Hebron of Palestinian. Victim was bound hand and foot; settler shot him 9 times at point-blank range. Settler is sentenced to life in prison. (NYT 4/29, WT 5/4)

PFLP-GC figure Mustafa Khamis announces formation of "PFLP-Islamic General Command." (al-Sharq al-Awsat 4/28 in FBIS 4/29)

Israeli FM Peres and PLO Exec. Comm. mbr. Mahmud 'Abbas release statement saying PLO-Israel talks on Israeli withdrawal fr. Gaza and Jericho will resume in Taba, Egypt, "based on the Declaration of Principles and the Cairo understandings." (Qol Yisra'el 1/6 in FBIS 1/6; MM, WT 1/6; CSM, WP 1/7)

Talks in Tunis btwn. PLO leadership, Palestinian delegation demanding reform conclude. (al-Sharq al-Awsat 1/6 in FBIS 1/10; MM 1/7)

Israeli PM Rabin visits Allenby Bridge to reaffirm that Israel will control border crossings during autonomy period. (NYT, WP, WT 1/7)

Alleged Islamic Jihad mbr. stabs IDF soldier in Jerusalem and is shot dead. (Qol Yisra'el 1/6 in FBIS 1/6; MM 1/6; WP 1/7)

Frmr. Israeli PM Yitzhak Shamir, in radio interview, comments on 1/5 bomb incident in New York, saying "Peace Now has caused the State of Israel more harm than would have been caused had the bombs gone off." Shamir faces criticism for remarks, claims he meant to say opposite of what he did. (NYT 1/8; WJW 1/13)

PLO Exec. Comm. meeting in Tunis. PFLP threatens walkout of 7 comm. mbrs.- 3 independents, reps. of PFLP, DFLP (Hawatmah), PLF, and ALF - if Chmn. Arafat blocks discussion of financial, political crises. PFLP rep. 'Abd al-Rahman Malluh, independent Bishop Ilyas Khuri, and Shafiq al-Hut do not attend. Mahmud Darwish, who had resigned, says he will attend to show resignation fr. Exec. Comm. "does not mean resignation fr. the PLO." DFLP (Hawatmah) rep. Taysir Khalid says he will demand resignation of all PLO leaders responsible for negotiations with Israel. (MM 8/26, 8/27)

PLO Information head Yasir 'Abd-Rabbuh passes message fr. Chmn. Arafat to French govt. on provisional PLO-Israel accord. 'Abd-Rabbuh later tells RFI "we think that now there is a possibility of an historic breakthrough btwn. us and the Israelis." (MM 8/27)

Al-Sharq al-Awsat quotes delegation spokeswoman Hanan Ashrawi as saying delegation cut to 7 negotiators, 1 asst. due to PLO financial straits. (MM 8/26)

Palestinian delegation to peace talks holds coordinating meeting in Jerusalem. (Qol Yisra'el 8/23 in FBIS 8/24)

PLO Chmn. Arafat visits Amman for talks with Jordanian leaders, defends "Gaza-Jericho lst" plan. (MM 8/24)

PLO names teams to Jordanian-Palestinian comms. set up 7/14. Each of 6 teams to be headed by Exec. Comm. mbr. (al-Ray 8/23 in FBIS 8/24)

PFLP rep. on PLO Exec. Comm. 'Abd al-Rahman Malluh says comm. mbrs. disturbed by PLO "political concessions," threatens mass resignation. (MM 8/24)

Fateh cmdr. in Lebanon Lt. Col. Munir al-Maqdah calls for Arafat's resignation, citing effects of PLO financial crisis on fighters, political concessions. "Fateh Free Officers" release statement in o.t. saying they have lost confidence in Arafat; al-Sharq al-Awsat says "Force 17" endorses "Free Officers' " position. Fateh Cent. Comm. mbr. Khalid al-Hasan endorses calls for "national salvation govt." (RFL 8/23 in FBIS 8/23; MM 8/24)

General Accounting Office (GAO) releases report criticizing U.S.-Israel "Arrow" missile program, saying project lacks "sound cost, schedule and performance information." (MM, WT 8/24)

Israeli attack on Lebanon enters 4th day as international condemnation mounts. Refugees from south estimated at 500,000; casualties total 90 dead, 400 wounded. UN Secy.-Gen. Butrus Butrus-Ghali calls attack "deplorable" while UN Security Council, renewing UNIFIL mandate, expresses "regret" over loss of life and urges "restraint" on all parties. US State Dept. says "Military activities directed against all civilians should ... stop... The refugees from south Lebanon must be allowed to return to their homes immediately." Secy. of State Christopher telephones PM Rabin, Syrian FM al-Shara', and Lebanese PM Rafiq Hariri, urging Israel to end fighting before Christopher comes to region and Syria not to permit arms to reach Hizballah. PM Rabin vows to "chase down" Hizballah, tells Knesset, "The civilian Lebanese population in southern Lebanon will be distanced-northward-from the villages in which Hizballah terrorists operate." Pres. Clinton says "I think Hizballah should stop its attacks. I think Israel should stop its bombardments. I think that Syria should go from showing restraint to being an active participant to try and stop the fighting, and we ought to do whatever we can to stop the fighting as quickly as possible." (NYT, WP, WT 7/29)

Responding to continued financial crisis, PLO closes three departments-information, culture, and social affairs. (al-Sharq al-Awsat 7/28 in FBIS 7/30)