The Palestine Chronology

Israeli-Palestinian clashes continue, leaving at least 2 Palestinians dead, including Hamas mbr. Ibrahim Bani Odeh, who dies when a car bomb rigged by the IDF explodes in Nablus. The 2d Palestinian is shot dead by the IDF in Gaza after a roadside bomb detonates nr. an IDF patrol. Palestinian gunmen open fire on an IDF post in Gaza, killing 1 IDF soldier. A 2d IDF soldier is killed when a bomb explodes at a District Coordination Office (DCO) in Gaza, where PA-Israeli joint patrols are based. The IDF shells residential areas nr. Rafah border terminal, destroying 1 Palestinian home. (LAW 11/23; LAW, NYT, WP, WT 11/24; HA 12/1; WJW 12/28)

Barak's security cabinet continues discussions on how to respond to the 11/22 Hadera bombing, rejects a list of Palestinian targets for retaliatory strikes, arguing that air strikes have had little deterrent effect on the Palestinians while damaging Israel's public image, that Israel should switch to "precision operations against specific targets." Following the DCO bombing today, Israel evicts PSF officers fr. all DCOs, officially severing all security coordination. Later, however, senior PA and Israeli security officials meet at Erez to discuss ways of halting further escalation of violence. (MM 11/23; MENA 11/23 in WNC 11/24; MA [Internet], NYT, WP, WT, YA 11/24; al-Quds 11/26 in WNC 11/29)

Israeli-Palestinian fighting in the West Bank and Gaza abates slightly but escalates again this evening, leaving at least 3 Palestinians dead. The most serious incident is in Nablus, where the IDF, implementing the Sharm agmts., turns over Joseph's Tomb to the PSF. Palestinians celebrating the IDF pullback overrun the PSF, destroy the tomb. In response, armed Jewish settlers roam areas around West Bank settlements, stoning and firing at Palestinian cars, killing 1 Palestinian. Inside Israel, Jews fr. Upper Nazareth rampage through Arab Nazareth throwing stones at Israeli Palestinians, sparking a riot; when Israeli Arabs start to fight back, Israeli riot police intervene, using tear gas and live ammunition, shooting dead 2 Israeli Arabs. In Tiberias, Jews vandalize a historic mosque. The IDF moves tanks into the West Bank to guard the Jewish settlement of Psagot, which has been the target of Palestinian sniping. At Rafah airport, Palestinians fire on a bus Israeli airport workers, injuring 8. Israel shuts the airport. (LAW 10/7; MENA, RL 10/7, al-Quds 10/8, AFP, Le Monde 10/10 in WNC 10/10; ADM, NYT, WP, WT 10/8; MM, NYT, WT 10/9; AYM 10/9, MA 10/10, 10/11 in WNC 10/12; NYT 10/10; WJW 10/12; MEI 10/13; WJW 10/19; WP 10/28)

Barak calls up IDF reservists, sets an ultimatum of 48 hrs. for Palestinians to halt their assaults on IDF outposts, Jewish settlements or "we will regard this as a cessation by Arafat of the peace process, and we will order the army to use all means at its disposal." Barak also says he is considering forming a "unity government" with Likud MK Sharon. (AYM 10/7, al-Quds 10/9 in WNC 10/12; NYT, WP, WT 10/8; AYM 10/8 in WNC 10/13; MM 10/9; Le Monde 10/10 in WNC 10/10; MM 10/11; JP, MEI 10/13)

Nr. Shaba` Farms, IDF soldiers fire across the blue line into Lebanon at 100s of Palestinian refugees staging a protest, killing 2, wounding 15. In response, Hizballah guerrillas cross into Golan Heights, kidnap 3 IDF soldiers; fire rockets at the IDF's Shaba` outpost, injuring 6 soldiers. Barak reinforces the border area, sends Israeli warplanes and attack helicopters into Lebanon to strike Hizballah targets, injuring 4 Lebanese civilians. U.S.'s Albright phones Lebanese pres. Lahoud, Syrian pres. Asad to urge them to intercede with Hizballah to release the IDF soldiers. France, Germany, the Red Cross, Russia, the UN open channels with Hizballah, which demands Israel release at least 19 Lebanese political prisoners (kidnaped by the IDF in Lebanon, held without trial for as long as 20 yrs.) in exchange for the soldiers. (CNN [Internet] 10/7; RL 10/7, AYM 10/8, Interfax 10/9, Le Monde 10/10 in WNC 10/10; NYT, WP, WT 10/8; Manar TV [Internet], MM, NYT, WT 10/9; al-Quds 10/9, DUS, al-Safir 10/10 in WNC 10/12; MM, NYT, WP 10/10; NYT, WJW, WP 10/12; JP, MEI 10/13; JP 10/27, 11/3)

After 6 days of debate, the UNSC passes (14 to 0, with the U.S. abstaining) a watered down resolution that condemns the "excessive use of force" against the Palestinians but does not mention Israel by name. U.S. Amb. Richard Holbrooke threatened to veto stronger language. (AP 10/7; NYT, WP, WT 10/8; AYM 10/8 in WNC 10/13; MM, NYT, WT 10/9; CSM, WP 10/10; MEI 10/13)

In Amman, Jordanian police open fire on Palestinian refugees demonstrating for the closure of the Israeli emb., killing 1, arresting 97. Demonstrations condemning Israeli violence, U.S. support of Israel are held in Bahrain, Canada, Egypt, France, Iraq, Kuwait, Lebanon, Mauritania, Nigeria, Oman, Pakistan, Sweden, Switzerland, Syria, Turkey, the UAE, and Yemen. In the U.S., rallies are held in Albuquerque, Dearborn, New York. (BBC, al-Jazeera TV [Internet] 10/7; AFP, ATL, MENA 10/7, JT 10/8 in WNC 10/10; Daily Star 10/12 in WNC 10/13; Gulf News [Internet], NYT 10/8; MM 10/11; AYM 10/11 in WNC 10/12; MEI 10/13)

In Washington, the U.S.-Israel Joint Political Military Group (JPMG) convenes to discuss exchanges aimed at improving Israel's defensive capabilities. (USIS Washington File 5/5)

Fmr. PLO guerrilla and current Palestine National Council mbr. Muhammad Oudeh admits to planning hostage-taking of Israelis at the 1972 Munich Olympics, says Arafat was briefed on plans, but that intention was never to kill the athletes. (WP, WT 5/4)

IDF demolishes 2 Palestinian homes in Jerusalem. (LAW 5/5; MM 5/6)

Choosing not to contest his lawsuit, the U.S. unfreezes $24 m. in assets of Saudi businessman Idris, who owns al-Shifa pharmaceutical plant in Sudan, bombed by the U.S. in 8/98. Administration says its still has "concerns" about Idris based on sensitive intelligence sources. (NYT, WP 5/4; MM 5/14) (see 2/25)

Hizballah stages 3 attacks against IDF, SLA targets in s. Lebanon, killing 1 IDF soldier, injuring 5 IDF soldiers and SLA mbrs. (RL, VOL 5/3 in WNC 5/4; MM 5/4; WT 5/5; MEI 5/7)

Israeli PM Rabin, Jordan's King Hussein sign "Washington Declaration" ending state of belligerency at White House ceremony with U.S. Pres. Clinton as witness.  Declaration says sides "recognize their right and obligation to live in peace with each other."  Agreement mandates direct telephone connections, linking of electrical grids, and immediate opening of 2 border crossings.  Declaration also recognizes Hussein's "historic role" in safeguarding Muslim holy places in Jerusalem. Clinton calls Syrian Pres. al-Asad after ceremony, saying opportunity exists for progress in Israel-Syria talks.  Later, Rabin and Hussein attend state dinner in their honor. (MM 7/25; CSM, NYT, WP, WSJ, WT 7/26)

Israeli, Palestinian negotiators meet in Norway to discuss sharing of water resources.  (Qol Yisra'el 7/26 in FBIS 7/26; WT 7/26)

PLO Chmn. Arafat swears in Judge Qusay al-Abadlah as PNA chief justice and head of supreme court.  (Algiers VOP 7/26 in FBIS 7/27)

Kach movement holds paramilitary summer camp for youths at Qiryat Arba, including prayer at grave of Hebron killer Baruch Goldstein.  Organizers avoid direct connection to Kach, outlawed after 2/25 massacre.  (JP 7/25 in FBIS 7/27; WT 7/26)

Hizballah ambushes IDF patrol in southern Lebanon, killing 1 officer and wounding 13 soldiers.  IDF tank unit pursues guerrillas to Yuhmur village.  (RL 7/25, Qol Yisra'el 7/26 in FBIS 7/26; MM 7/26; WT 7/27)

UNSG Butrus Butrus-Ghali, in report to UNSC on renewal of UNIFIL mandate, orders study of how to reduce UNIFIL's 5,244-mbr. force.  (WT 7/27)

Argentine officials blame Iran for 7/18 bombing of Buenos Aires Jewish center as confirmed death toll reaches 80.  (NYT 7/26)

Israeli High Court of Justice accepts petition fr. Tsomet party to bar Yi'ud party fr. joining cabinet.  Yi'ud made up of frmr. Tsomet mbrs.  (MM 7/25)(see 7/12)

PLO official Nabil Shaath, visiting Jericho, postpones trip to Jerusalem's Haram al-Sharif in move interpreted as showing PLO reluctance to provoke Israeli right on Jerusalem issue.  (MM 6/20; NYT 6/21)

Jerusalem Waqf authorities stop Israeli bulldozers digging tunnel nr. Haram al-Sharif.  (TJT 6/24)

IAF airstrikes on Jabal al-Raffih in southern Lebanon wound 2 Hizballah guerrillas.  Raid follows Hizballah firing on 2 SLA positions. Incident is 22d IAF airstrike in Lebanon in year. Later, Hizballah ambush of IDF patrol in "security zone" kills 3 Israeli soldiers, wounds 3, according to Lebanese security sources.  IDF sources say only 1 killed.  Artillery and rocket duels erupt btwn. SLA, Hizballah.  (MM 6/20; CSM, WP, WSJ, WT 6/21; JP 7/2)

Syria deliberates on supplying Hizballah with SA-14 and SA-16 antiaircraft missiles in reaction to increased Israeli air raids, according to "diplomatic sources."  (WT 6/21)

Jordan's King Hussein, Secy of State Christopher meet in Washington.  Hussein says he hopes for high-level mtg. with Israel.  (MM 6/21; CSM, WP 6/22)

2 IDF guards at Haram al-Ibrahimi tell commission of inquiry they fired into door leading to mosque, contradicting officers' testimony and confirming accounts by Palestinians that soldiers fired on worshippers fleeing massacre. (MM, NYT, WP, WT 3/18)

Dep. DM Mordechai Gur visits Beit Hadassah, Qiryat Arba settlements toreassure Hebron settlers of govt. commitment to their safety. (CSM 3/18)

PLO accepts U.S. proposal, made in a telephone call by talks coordinator Dennis Ross, for 3/19 mtg. btwn. PLO Chmn. Arafat and Israeli FM Peres to explore resumption of negotiations. Arafat, PLO Exec. Comm. mbr. Samir Ghawsha say talks' resumption contingent on passage of UNSC resolution condemning Hebron massacre. (MM 3/17; WP, WT 3/18)

Pres. Clinton telephones Egyptian Pres. Mubarak, Syrian Pres. al-Asad to brief them on his talks with Israeli PM Rabin. Clinton seeks Syrian commitment to rejoin Arab-Israeli peace talks even if PLO stays out. (NYT, WP 3/18)

Senate passes "sense of the Senate" amendment to banking bill urging Clinton admin. to veto any UNSC resolution that "states or implies that Jerusalem is 'occupied' territory." Resolution follows letter to Pres. Clinton signed by 82 senators criticizing UNSC draft resolution on Hebron massacre. (NYT 3/19)

PM Rabin meets Pope John Paul I1 in Rome as Vatican special envoy Archbishop Jean-Louis Tauran meets PLO Chmn. Arafat in Tunis. (MM, NYT 3/18)

IDF kills 3 Hizballah guerrillas infiltrating "security zone" in southern Lebanon; later, 2 IAF planes rocket Hizballah base at Mlita, killing 2 guerrillas. (MM 3/17; MEI 4/15)

FM Peres criticizes some settlements in Gaza Strip as "totally illogical," saying Netzarim "has no agricultural importance, no economic importance, no security importance."  (MM 2/22)

15 settler families, most fr. Ariel, sign petition for Knesset assistance to help them leave o.t.  MKs Yossi Katz (Labor) and Avraham Poraz (Meretz) submit Knesset bills calling for comprehensive compensation plan for settlers leaving o.t., while Labor MKs Haggai Merom and Avraham Burg set up "hot line" for settlers who wish to leave.  (MM 2/23)

Lebanese govt. officials, responding to U.S. concerns over violence in southern Lebanon, agree to restrain actions of guerrilla groups in south.  Int. M Bishara Mirhaj says "We will not approve of any operation that undermines the responsibility of the state in south Lebanon."  (NYT 2/25)

Israeli Central Bureau of Statistics puts Israeli population at end 1993 at 5.325 m., compared to 5.196 m. in 1992.  CBS says settlements' population at 115,000 compared to 105,000 in 1992, Palestinian population in o.t. 1.9 m.  (MM 2/23)

Likud leader Binyamin Netanyahu meets in Washington with VP Al Gore, Senate Minority Leader Robert Dole.  Gore expresses both personal and official Clinton admin. opposition to Palestinian state, according to Netanyahu, while Dole says Senate would oppose posting U.S. troops on Golan.  (MM 2/23)

Jordanian Crown Prince Hassan expresses "respect and appreciation" for Saudi fund-raising drive for Islamic holy places in Jerusalem.  (RJ 2/22 in FBIS 2/23)

Senate confirms Strobe Talbott as dep. secy. of state by 66-31 vote.  Opponents had charged Talbott was overly critical of Israel while a journalist for Time magazine, Sen. John McCain (R-AZ)  calling Talbott's articles "insulting, immature and incorrect," Sen. Minority Leader Robert Dole (R-KS) accusing Talbott of "clear anti-Israel bias." (MM, NYT, WP, WT 2/23)

PLO rep. in Jordan Tayib 'Abd al-Rahim announces that 2 plots to kill PLO Chmn. Arafat have been foiled. 1 attempt was by Arafat bodyguards suborned by FRC ("Abu Nidal"), 2d by unidentified group that sought to bomb Arafat's plane. (WT 10/10)

2 Israeli hikers fr. Jerusalem stabbed and shot to death in Wadi Qilt, near Jericho in the West Bank. "Al-Aqsa Brigade" of Palestinian Islamic Jihad, in statement released in Amman, claims responsibility, says 3 killed. Statement declares, "We will never surrender or accept any concessions on the land of Palestine which will become a graveyard for the Jews." PFLP also claims responsibility. (NYT 10/10; MM, NYT, WT 10/11)

PFLP guerrilla killed by Israeli soldiers as he sails jet ski off Lebanese coast near Israeli border. UN sources report 2 killed, not 1. (NYT 10/10, 10/11)

Palestinian factions opposed to DoP-including DFLP (Hawatmah faction), PFLP, Hamas, and Islamic Jihad-announce in Damascus establishment of National Islamic Front to counter PLO. Alliance fails to call congress to elect new PLO leadership due to reluctance of Islamic groups to identify with secular PLO. Front's declaration calls Palestinian police to be set up under PLO-Israel accord "a traitor force, and an oppressive enemy force." (CSM 10/14)

Jordan denounces 9/23 Israeli court ruling on status of Haram al-Sharif, says it will continue with restoration work on Dome of the Rock regardless of Israeli stance. (MM 10/11)

Palestinian delegation head Haydar 'Abd al-Shafi warns that unless Israel concedes Palestinian rights in Jerusalem "it will kill the peace process." (NYT 7/17)

Secy. of State Christopher announces he will travel to Middle East 8/1-5 to pursue "role of honest broker" in peace talks. (USIA Wireless File 7/19)

Dahaf Institute poll indicates 42% of Israelis favor talks with PLO, 57% oppose. (Yediot Aharonot 7/16 in MM 7/16)

Syrian FM al-Shara' rejects Israeli warning to curb guerrilla activity in southern Lebanon. (MM 7/16)

Palestinian negotiator Haydar 'Abd alShafi denies knowledge of Israeli-PLO contacts (Jerusalem al-Nahar 7/14 in FBIS 7/15)

Test flight of Israeli-made Arrow missile fails, jeopardizing U.S. support for ABM weapon. (WT 7/16; IDF Radio 7/14 in FBIS 7/15)

Guerrillas attack SLA position near al- 'Ayshiyah in southern Lebanon with machine guns and rocket-propelled grenades. IDF and SLA return fire. IDF troop and artillery movements reported near Hula and al-Majidiyah, including reinforcement of 10 armored cars and 100 troops, with mechanized company at Hula. Hizballah claims katyusha attack on SLA positions at 'Ali al-Tahir, Sujud. IDF shells Kafr Tibnit and other villages in lqlim al-Tuffah. (Qol Yisra'el, Voice of the Mountain 7/15 in FBIS 7/15)

Lebanese govt. orders PFLP-GC head Ahmadjibril to leave Lebanon. Jibril's presence had become an embarrassment after 7/8 ambush of IDF in southern Lebanon and Jibril press conference afterward. (MM 7/15)

Israeli police stop attempt to establish new settlement in Golan Heights. (Qol Yisra'el 7/14 in FBIS 7/15; JP 7/15 in MM 7/15)

Opposition Knesset factions (Likud, NRP, Tsomet, and Molodet) enter no-confidence motions, citing civil-service strike, kosher laws, and alleged Israeli-PLO dialogue. (Qol Yisra'el 7/14 in FBIS 7/15)

CSM reports that 10 U.S. state govts. hold Israeli bonds, 8% of $650m annual U.S. market. Poll commissioned by Arab American Institute shows 71.9% oppose buying Israeli bonds with tax money. (CSM 7/14)

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli troops shoot, kill Palestinian activist in the Gaza Strip, prompting large demonstration. Army reports Mohammad Arafat Akraa was shot fleeing arrest [WP 9/15]. At least 10 Palestinians are wounded by gunfire in O.T. [FBIS 9/15].

Arab World: Soviet news agency Tass reports Israel fired a missile from a site near Jerusalem that landed 800 miles away in the Mediterranean north of Benghazi, Libya [\WP 9/20]. Israeli helicopter gunships fire rockets at two Abu Nidal guerrilla bases east of Sidon, Lebanon. Police report at least 3 people wounded [WP 9/15; MET 9/26].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Paestinians in Galilee send trucks of food, medicine to Palestinians in O.T. [FBIS 3/14]. Border police units will be gradually replacing IDF units orf W. Bank. Attorneys working in O.T. end 2/2 month strike [FBIS 3/13].

Arab World: Nabil Shaath, chairman of PLO political committee, calls Bush proposal "way too little, too late," but said PLO leadership would study proposal [WP 3/13]. PLO chairman Arafat states willingness to go to Jerusalem to convince Israelis of need for international conference; visit is predicated on approval of Arab states [FBIS 3/13].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Palestinian from 'Ayda camp dies from wounds received 3/11 [FBIS 3/14, FJ 3/20]. Israeli troops shoot, wound Palestinian who stabbed a soldier in Bethlehem [NYT 3/13, FJ 3/20]. At least 5 Palestinians are injured in W. Bank; 8 Palestinians in Gaza [FJ 3/20].

Arab World: Israeli troopshoot, kill 2 PFLP-GC guerrillas in the Israeli-imposed security zone in S. Lebanon [NYT 3/13].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Attorney Ibrahim Irshayd, sec. of Prisoners' Friends Assoc., calls for closure of Kafr Una Prison [FJ 11/8].

Arab World: Senior Jordanian official states King Hussein has rejected U.S. proposal for peace conference sponsored jointly by U.S. and U.S.S.R. and is insisting on international conference [NYT 11/71.

Other Countries: Washington Post reports Israel has denied allegations of new arms sales to Iran [WP 11/6].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli troops raid Zahra School for Girls in Gaza, arrest 6 students. Soldiers and youths clash at Jabaliya refugee camp [FJ 11/8]. Palestinian farmers in Jericho begin exporting produce to EEC through Israeli Agrexco Co. [Fl 11/8]. Residents of Laqqiyyah replant olive trees uprooted by Israeli troops; Israel uproots trees again [FJ 11/8]. Al-Quds reports Israeli Ministry of Justice has ruled all Jerusalem property owned by W. Bank Palestinians will be considered absentee property [FJ 11/8].

Arab World: Israeli patrol boat searches boat off Lebanon coast, detains passenger suspected of transporting arms to guerrilla forces [WP 11/9].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Several W. Bank and Jerusalem Palestinian political activists are arrested, charged with organizing demonstrations [WP 9/17; FJ 9/20]. Bethlehem U. students hold symbolic funeral to commemorate 5th anniversary of Sabra and Shatila massacres [FJ 9/20]. Inner cabinet adopts economic and cultural sanctions against S. Africa [NYT, WP 9/17]. Palestinian political prisoners at Nafha Prison begin 2-day hunger strike to protest conditions; strike at Ashkelon Prison enters 6th week [FJ 9/20]. Authorities arrest 12 Palestinians in occupied territories: 3 are placed under administrative detention for 6 months; 9 receive 9-day detentions for planning strikes, demonstrations [FJ 9/20]. Israeli High Court rules non-striking Palestinian lawyers have right to form union [FJ 9/20]. Al-Najah U. administration adopts new regulations concerning campus mosque, religious celebrations [FJ 9/20]. Israeli authorities confiscate copies of Arabic dailies in the occupied territories [FJ 9/20].

Other Countries: Hasan 'Abd al-Rahman, director of Palestine Information Office in U.S., says he will sue to prevent State Dept.-ordered closure of PIO [LAT 9/18].

Military Action

Arab World: Lebanese National Resistance Front, groups of Syrian-sponsored Palestinian and leftist Lebanese fighters, attack Israeli patrol just north of Israeli border, killing 3 Israelis. Israeli sources allege guerrillas were trying to infiltrate border and take hostages. In Rashayyah, Israeli infantry and helicopters follow group of fighters spotted approaching Israeli border; 3 guerrillas are killed [WP 9/17].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: A 1-day general strike in support of Jerusalem Electric Company closes most shops in E. Jerusalem [FJ 8/23]. Israeli police announce arrest of 4 Palestinians in connection with 4 murders, including assassination of Nablus Mayor Zafir al-Masri in 1986, and 3 attempted murders in Nablus and Jenin [FJ 8/23]. In Rahat village, 1,500 demonstrators inside mosque prevent court-ordered demolition of mosque by Israeli soldiers and police [FJ 8/23]. Jerusalem planning com. approves project to build 10,000 housing units for Palestinians innorthern Jerusalem [FJ 8/23]. Lina Tubaylah, member of Women's Work Com. in Nablus, receives 6-month town arrest order [FJ 8/23]. Israeli authorities ban 22 books from use in Palestinian schools on W. Bank [FJ 8/23]. Israeli authorities approve building of 4 new settlements in Jordan Valley, Nablus, Bethlehem, and Jerusalem [FJ 8/23]. Israeli authorities inform landowners in Hebron-area villages of Dura and Dhahriyyah of plan to expropriate 2,000 dunams of village land [FJ 8/23]. Members of Village League open fire on Bayt 'Ula residents, injuring 2 [FJ 8/23].

Arab World: Maronite leader Camille Chamoun dies in Lebanon [MEI 8/28]. Arab committee studying terrorism ends session in Damascus; meeting was attended by an official delegation of the PLO [FJ 8/23]. Khalid Yasin, member of DFLP, is released from Israeli prison after 14 years, arrives in al-Baddawi refugee camp in N. Lebanon [FJ 8/23].

Other Countries: Scotland Yard reveals arrest of Isma'il Hasan Suwan, Palestinian researcher, in connection with attempted assassinationf Naji al-'Ali and seizure of large arms and explosive cache believed to be for use by PLO guerrillas in Europe [NYT 8/19; FJ 8/23].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: More than 50 Israeli soldiers raid al-Najah University in Nablus, confiscate books and files from administrative and student council offices [FJ 8/23]. In Gaza, 2 Israelis are injured in gunfire attack [FJ 8/23].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: In Bayt Jann village in the Galilee, hundreds of Palestinian Druze clash with Israeli soldiers and nature reserve officers when authorities try to evict Druze from village land annexed by Israel for a nature reserve; at least 16 Israelis and 6 Druze are injured [BG 7/7; FJ 7/12]. Office of Jerusalem Mayor Teddy Kollek announces mayor will boycott French Consulate's Bastille Day celebration to protest practice of holding separate receptions for Arabs in E. Jerusalem and for Jews in W. Jerusalem [WP 7/7].

Arab World: U.S. envoy Vernon Walters meets in Damascus with Syrian Pres. al-Asad for 2d day of discussions aimed at improving U.S. -Syrian relations [WP, NYT 7/7].

Military Action

Arab World: Combined Israeli ground and air forces fight Hizballah guerrillas in daylong battle near Yatir in S. Lebanon [BG 7/7].

Social/Economic/Political

Other Countries: Julio Maria Sanguinetti, president of Uruguay, arrives for 5-day visit to Israel, receives 21-gun salute in Jerusalem, marking the first time a visiting head of state agreed to be welcomed officially in the disputed capital rather than at Ben-Gurion Airport [LT, JP 5/2].

Military Action

Arab World: Shi'ite guerrillas from the Islamic Resistance Movement say they kill 7 members of the SLA; Israeli reports say 1 Shi'ite was killed and 5 SLA members were wounded; both reports say 3 SLA members were kidnaped by the Shi'ites [NYT, JTA 5/2].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: P.M. Peres demands resignation of Finance Minister Yitzhak Modai, who publicly criticized Peres over the weekend [LAT, CT 4/8]. Smith Research Center poll finds 54% of Israeli public wants rotation agreement between P. M. Peres and Foreign Minister Shamir to be honored [JP 4/7].

Other Countries: Greece and Israel sign a cultural and scientific cooperation agreement [JC, JTA 4/7].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Ten people are injured, one seriously, by gasoline bomb thrown through back window of Egged bus in north Jerusalem suburb of Neve Ya'acov UP 4/9].

Arab World: Israeli planes attack Palestinian guerrilla bases around Sidon, killing 2 and wounding 20 [NYT, WP 4/8].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israel plans to increase aid to El Salvador, now that a Salvadoran ambassador has been named to the disputed Israeli capital of Jerusalem [CT 2/20].

Arab World: Yasir Arafat meets with top aides in Baghdad to discuss implications of King Hussein's 2/19 speech [JP 2/21].

Other Countries: U.S. State Dept. issues statement blaming breakdown of talks between King Hussein and Yasir Arafat on the PLO, says it will continue efforts to encourage direct negotiations between Jordan and Israel, although process is entering "period of reflection" [LT, WP 2/21].

Military Action

Arab World: Israeli army clashes with Lebanese guerrillas in S. Lebanon; 1 Israeli, 8 Lebanese killed [NYT, LAT 2/21]. Lebanese sources state Israeli army has rounded up 200 people during search [NYT 2/21].

Social/Economic/Political

Arab World: Pres. Mubarak asks France to organize intl. conference on M.E. peace to contact "both parties" - Israel and the Palestinians - in preparation for real conference [NYT, JTA 1/30]. Mubarak holds talks with W. German officials [NYT 1/30].

Other Countries: British Foreign Office stops processing documents on behalf of Arab Boycott Office, following visit by P.M. Peres [JTA 1/30].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Gunman carrying Jordanian army papers crosses Jordan River, kills 2 Israeli soldiers on patrol, wounds 2 others before he is shot to death [NYT, LAT 1/30].

Arab World: Israeli warplanes bomb Palestinian guerrilla bases in S. Lebanon, killing at least 5, wounding 6; Israeli army states targets were 3 houses used by opposition PLO factions, including Abu Musa's Fateh faction, which claimed responsibility for 1/26 bombing of Jerusalem restaurant [WP, LAT 1/30]. Vacuum bombs were reportedly used in the raid [FJ 1/31].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israel's 10-member inner cabinet meets to discuss security situation in occupied territories, resolves to tell Jordan again to remove PLO "bases" recently set up there [LT, BG, FT 9/5]. Inner cabinet approves proposal from Ariel Sharon that the authorities conduct general review of institutions in occupied territories that are supportive of the PLO [FJ 9/6]. Israeli soldiers rebuild wall separating Hebron's main mosque from marketplace, which settlers destroyed after 9/3 stabbing of two soldiers [GD 9/5]. MKs Yossi Sarid and Dedi Zucker of the Citizen's Rights Movement present document to Police Min. Haim Bar-Lev alleging Jumbo construction company made millions of dollars from fraudulent and illegal land sales [JP 9/5]. P.M. Peres sends close aide Avraham Tamir to unannounced ovemight visit with Egyptian Pres. Husni Mubarak to discuss ways of advancing relations between the two nations [CSM 9/6]. Israeli settlers try to squat in Hebron where 2 Israeli soldiers were stabbed 9/3. Army evicts them [CSM 9/6]. Five hundred Ethiopian Jews demonstrate in Jerusalem against rabbinical demands that they undergo symbolic conversion before marrying [WP 9/7]. For. Min. Shamir leaves for Japan to try to persuade Japanese leaders to relax their adherence to Arab boycott and increase trade with Israel [JP 9/4].

Other Countries: Operation Independence, a group of 100 international Jewish business leaders wishing to strengthen Israel's economy, sponsors New York meeting of hotel, airline, and tourism groups and prominent Jewish business leaders to discuss ways to increase American tourism to Israel [JTA 9/5].

Military Action

Occupied Palesine/Israel: Several katyusha rockets land in Galilee; no injuries reported. This is 4th katyusha attack on Galilee in recent months [JP 9/5].

Arab World: Israeli jets bomb suspected PLO guerrilla base in Lebanon's Biqa' Valley, 11th such strike inside Lebanon this year [NYT 9/5]. Reports say 6 Palestinians killed and 10 wounded in the attack [CSM 9/6]. Shi'ite and Palestinian militias battle around Burj al-Baraj inah refugee camp south of Beirut in worst fighting since June, when Syrian-sponsored cease-fire ended fierce clashes in 3 Palestinian refugee camps. Latest fighting leaves 10 dead, 27 wounded [NYT, LAT 9/5].

SociaL/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Another 20 Palestinians are put under administrative detention [NYT, LT 9/4]. Military review board rejects appeals submitted by 3 West Bank Palestinians against deportation orders issued against them a week ago. They are expected to appeal to Israeli High Court [FT 9/4]. Shafiqa Abu Sitteh, 25, "accidentally" shot by Israeli soldier in the Gaza Strip last week, dies from her wounds in Beersheba Hospital [FJ 9/6]. Israeli army spokesman reports Iraeli navy seized another yacht, the Gandha, off the coast of southern Lebanon on 8/31, arresting 2 Palestinians, a Greek, and a Briton who were aboard. Spokesman states Palestinians confessed to being members of Fateh and to planning attack against targets inside Israel. Def. Min. Yitzhak Rabin states Israeli navy will intercept vessels anywhere in the Mediterranean to prevent attacks on Israeli targets [LT, CT, MG, JP 9/3]. Israeli Chief of Staff Moshe Levy tours Golan Heights and declares 2-kilometer-wide strip along demarcation line a closed military zone. Army is reportedly building new fortifications and strengthening forces in the Golan [FJ 9/6]. Jewish Telegraphic Agency reports a Modi'in Ezrachi poll shows 60% of Israeli adult public favor amnesty for imprisoned members of Jewish underground; 34% oppose it UTA 9/3].

Other Countries: New York Times reports U.S. administrations discussing convening a meeting of Western European states to sponsor direct Arab-Israeli negotiations as alternative to the international conference which King Hussein and PLO insist on, which would include the Soviet Union [JP 9/3].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Bomb explodes at bus stop at Gilo settlement, south of Jerusalem, wounding 6; 11 Palestinians are arrested [JP 9/3]. Abu Musa faction of Fateh reportedly claims responsibility [MG 9/3]. Unidentified people ambush settler's car in Gaza Strip; Israeli police say several bullets hit the car. Several Palestinians detained by police [Fl 9/6]. Stones thrown at Egged bus smash its windshield near Ramallah; 3 Palestinian youths detained and released [Fl 9/6].

Arab World: Gunmen seriously wound Hussayn al-Hayabi, 50, Palestinian guerrilla official loyal to Arafat, after storming his home in 'Ain al-Hilweh refugee camp. Hayabi is 7th Arafat loyalist attacked since July in 'Ain al-Hilweh, and only one to survive [BG,WP,MG 9/3].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Bir Zeit U. officials condemn 3/1 IDF raid on university [JP 3/5].

Arab World: Pres. Mubarak asserts PLO must be part of any negotiations [BG 3/5]. Fateh Second-in-Command Salah Khalaf (Abu lyad), PLO Central Com. Mbr. Mahmoud 'Abbas arrive in Amman to renegotiate portions of 2/11 Arafat-Hussein accord [MG 3/5].

Other Countries: US, Israel conclude free trade agreement; all tariffs between the 2 countries to be eliminated by 1995 [NYT 3/5]. US State Dept. rejects congressional request to allow PLO UN observer Zuhdi Terzi to travel to Washington and address members of Congress [WP 3/5].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: IDF close 8 stores in Halhoul after Israeli taxi stoned. 2 detained in Beit Jalla after Israeli car similarly attacked [JP 3/5]. In Issawiya (jerusalem) Border Police destroy 2 homes built without permit [FJ 3/8].

Arab World: Action in S. Lebanon: bomb explodes in Ma'rakah religious bldg., at least 12 killed, over 50 wounded; among the dead are 2 top Amal guerrilla leaders, Muhammad Saad, Khatit Jaradi; blast occurred less than 30 hrs. after IDF completed massive raid [NYT, LAT 3/5]. 16- yr.-old 'Ali Ma'rouf dies of heart attack while running from attacking IDF troops in Sila [NYT 3/10]. IDF raid Jabal Amal hospital in Tyre, beat director Dr. Ahmad Mroueh, fire shots, destroy property; at least 35 arrested, including some donating blood for victims of Ma'rakah blast [LAT 3/5]. IDF announce it will require special passes to cross Qasmiya Bridge on Litani River; southbound trucks carrying food, products across bridge also need permits; northbound vehicles forbidden, required to use Qa'qa'iya Bridge [JP 3/4]. 3 Katyushas fired at IDF post at Qasmiya Bridge. RPGs, shots fired at IDF posts in Bidias, Tyre. Roadside bombs explode near IDF vehicles In Tyre, 'Abbasiya. No casualties in any of the actions [JP 3/5].

Social/Economic/Political:

Occupied Palestine/Israel: PM Shamir wins Likud nomination for premiership challenge by MK Sharon. 60 Muslim Labor Party members meet to nominate Knesset candidate.

Other Countries: In al-Anba' interview, former US Pres. Carter says under current Israeli policies Jerusalem has become city of "killing and hatred."

Military Action:

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli soldiers open fire on car failing to stop at roadblock near Hebron, 2 killed. Israeli military command claims 2 Palestinian men suspected as guerrillas shot dead near Idna, West Bank.

Arab World: IDF shoots and kills Lebanese civilian as he approaches checkpoint in southern Sidon

Social/Economic/Political:

Occupied Palestine/Israel: WZO completes placement of 30 buildings on hilltop S.E. of Nablus to form Tel Haim settlement [adjacent to former Elon Moreh, ordered dismantled in 1979]. Jerusalem mayor Kollek's spokesman confirms plan for 75-acre Jewish cemetery east of city, saying it "will increase our hold" on West Bank. Report issued by "West Bank Data Project" concludes US funds intended for economic projects in occupied territories diverted by Israeli gov't. for its own use. Labor Party unanimously nominates Shimon Peres as PM candidate for 7/23 elections.

Other Countries: Zehdi Terzi speaks before Canadian Senate Foreign Affairs Com. as final witness in 2-yr. review of Canadian policy toward Middle East. US Pres. Reagan tells Jewish Community Relations Council in private New York mtg. that if Israel expelled from UN, "We will walk out with her."

Military Action:

Arab World: IDF shoots and wounds 7 Lebanese civilians in Sidon after grenade thrown at Israeli patrol on main street.

Other Countries: Bomb explodes in Israel Aircraft Industries' Manhattan offices; "Red Guerrilla Resistance" claims responsibility. 

Military Action:

Israeli jets bomb guerrilla bases in areas around Sofar, Falougha and Bhamdoun, reportedly hit as-Saiqa, Syrian Baath party, PFLP-GC and Druze positions, intense and effective anti-aircraft fire deployed; brief exchanges of artillery fire between LAF and PSP around Souq al-Gharb; fierce fighting continues around Baddawi, PLO loyalists and rebels both claim control of major parts of camp; all areas of Tripoli come under rocket and artillery fire.

Casualties:

1 Israeli jet shot down by shoulder fired SAM-7, pilot is rescued by LAF patrol after parachuting into Beirut suburb, Syria says 2nd jet was downed; casualty reports from air raid range from 2-18 killed, 8 wounded, damage to targets reportedly minimal; no reliable estimates possible of casualties in Tripoli, ambulances unable to move; Red Cross estimates 13,000-15,000 refugees from fighting at camps are in Tripoli.

Political Responses:

Israel/ Occupied Territories: IDF says air raid in Lebanon is reaction to long chain of terrorist attacks against IDF in South Lebanon, 35 IDF soldiers killed, 64 wounded since redeployment to Awali on September 4; Arens, addressing Moral Majority delegation in Jerusalem, says there will be no withdrawal from the West Bank; minister without portfolio Ben Porat says his plan to rehouse 250,000 Palestinians now living in refugee camps will cost between $2 and $1.5 b. over next six years, Shamir to raise the subject in forthcoming meetings with Reagan; IDF say group of Muslim extremists has confessed to the killing of a Jewish religious student in Hebron on July 7; settlers block road near Halhoul after stone throwing incident, enter town, break windows of cars and houses.

Palestinians/ Lebanese: Gemayel ends 2 days of meetings in Saudi Arabia with King Fahd.

US and Other Countries: Rumsfeld makes first official visit to Damascus, meets FM Khaddam; Iranian official says 14 Revolutionary Guards and about 30 Lebanese were killed in Israeli and French air raids near Baalbek last week; Soviet Union calls on PLO factions to cease senseless bloodshed, resolve differences through political means.

Military Action:

IDF building new roads in South and East Lebanon, bypassing villages; IDF constructing new fortifications in Bekaa.

Casualties:

IDF arrests Lebanese suspected of participation in guerrilla attacks.

Political Responses:

Israel/ Occupied Territories: Military statistics for year ending March 31 show increase in West Bank incidents of 69% over previous year, rise in use of molotov cocktails and grenades, 4417 street disturbances (increase of 79%), 35 schools closed, 66 towns, villages and camps subjected to curfews, 2 Israelis killed, 174 injured, 11 Palestinians killed, 90 injured; policeman to stand trial on torture charges after investigation of complaints by Arraba resident; Attorney General refuses to make public the Karp report on Jewish vigilantism in West Bank; Cabinet economic decisions will raise cost of imports by 7.5%, levy .3% tax on cash withdrawals from banks as partial means of financing Lebanon occupation; 8 Jewish religious students arrested in Jerusalem on suspicion of vandalizing Arab home near their yeshiva; 2 Gaza Strip Arabs sentenced to life imprisonment for grenade attack on Israeli bus in which 8 passengers were injured.

Palestinians/ Lebanese: Christian and Druze leaders meeting this week to ratify truce agreement covering Chouf region, terms include entry of Lebanese Army assisted by MNF as peacekeeping force, removal of roadblocks and exchange of prisoners, temporary amnesry, reconstruction assistance for damaged villages; PFLP and DFLP seek to mediate rebellion within Fateh.

Arab Governments: Syrian President Assad forms government committee to mediate Fateh rebellion, Syrian troops reinforce guard around main PLO offices and institutions in Damascus.

US and Other Countries: US defense sources say both Israel and Syria have received US aerial reconnaissance photos since 1976; former Israeli Defense Minister Sharon, accompanied by numerous bodyguards, arrives at Montreal airport under massive security precautions.

Military Action:

Abu Jihad, in interview, says PLO guerrillas ordered to step up attacks on IDF in Lebanon.

Casualties:

Detainees at Ansar camp carry out pro-PLO demonstration for 6 hours when IDF unit enters camp for inspection; Lebanese Army destroys Palestinian houses in Burj al-Barajneh.

Political Responses:

Israel/ Occupied Territories: 29 Jews placed under house arrest, fined IS5,000 in connection with Temple Mount incident; Cabinet agrees to share military intelligence from Lebanon war with US; 2 Bedouin arrested for breaking windows of tractors at planned Nevatim air force base near Tel Malhata, for which 700 families are being evacuated; Supreme Muslim Council calls for educational and commercial strike to protest March 1 1 Temple Mount incident; shops forced open by border police in Nablus; curfews in Halhoul and 4 refugee camps approach end of second continuous week; stone-throwing in Jerusalem, Hebron and 6 other West Bank towns; 32 school-children in Araba suffer unexplained illness; government announces plans to establish 15 military settlements, convert to civilian settlements 8 existing military posts in West Bank; Labor MK calls new settlement plans a tombstone for Middle East peace; 260 West Bank residents convicted of stone-throwing since January 1; Kiryat Arba resident detained on charge of firing shots at Hebron house on February 26, wounding 5 year-old girl.

Palestinians/ Lebanese: Lebanese-Israeli-US talks resume in Netanya.

US and Other Countries: US officials welcome Israeli decision to share military data from Lebanon war, will send 4-man US Air Force team to Israel next month to begin evaluation.

Military Action:

IDF imposes curfew on several Chouf villages, including Kfar Nabrakh, Navrah and Brih, following artillery duels and Phalange attack on Druze doctor; Aley sealed off after land mine explodes near IDF jeep.

Casualties:

IDF medical teams treat wounded in Chouf villages, many evacuated; IDF arranges exchange of prisoners in Aley; Ain el-Hilweh a sea of mud after third day of heavy rains, only 16 UNRWA tents set up and 100 refugees sign up to purchase Israeli-made prefabricated houses.

Political Responses:

Israel/ Occupied Territories: Shamir tells visiting US Congressmen that negotiations on IDF withdrawal from Lebanon could last many months, blames Syria; Israel links pull-out talks to Lebanese willingness to normalize relations with Israel (open borders, trade, tourism, unofficial missions in Jerusalem and Beirut); Tourism Minister Sharir reveals plan to promote tourism on West Bank to strengthen Israel's presence there; El Al workers go on strike.

Palestinians/ Lebanese: PLO source in Tunisia says Fateh has approved plans to create Palestinian-Jordanian federation, with Jordan and Palestinian state as separate countries, has decided to reinforce PLO troops in Bekaa and North Lebanon, to resume military training for guerrillas evacuated from Beirut and to resume talks with Lebanese Government on Palestinian presence in Lebanon; PLO reportedly sets 2 conditions for "mutual and simultaneous recognition" with Israel-US pledge to talk to PLO in return and a US guarantee that PLO will be included in any peace negotiations on equal footing with other Arab parties; Lebanese Parliament, in 58-1 vote, gives Gemayel power to rule nation by decree for 6 months, gives vote of confidence to 10-member Cabinet, gives Gemayel full powers to deal with Israelis, Syrians, PLO and to restructure Army, revise tax structure, change criminal law, reschedule debts, control media, but Gemayel fails to win power to amend election laws, citizenship requirements and provincial boundaries without Parliamentary approval, also fails to extend special powers for 2 more months, as 32 legislators abstain or are absent; Gemayel meets with Druze and Phalange leaders, says he will seek US pressure on IDF to withdraw from Chouf area; Walid Jumblatt meets Gemayel at Baabda to discuss deteriorating security in Chouf area, declares Israel is responsible for bloodshed.

US and Other Countries: Assistant Secretary of State Veliotes, in interview, says PLO proposal for "mutual and simultaneous" recognition with Israel was step backward in negotiating process as Israel will never agree; British Foreign Secretary Francis Pym arrives for 2 day stay in Jordan.

Military Action:

Lebanese President-elect Bashir Gemayel killed by bomb blast at Phalange Party office in East Beirut; Lebanese Army closes Green Line to traffic.

Political Responses:

Israel/ Occupied Territories: Israeli officials decline to comment on Gemayel death pending official notification; Sharon requests meeting with Begin, outlines "Operation Iron Brain" to "purge" Shatila and Sabra camps of estimated 2,000 PLO guerrillas he fears will exploit political vacuum following assassination; Labor Party leader Peres denies advance notice of US peace plan; Sharon announces review of West Bank Civil Administration (Col. Lunz, military commander and Civil Administrator of Gaza, may replace Milson after latter's contract expires in October); Jerusalem Press Services office closed for 6 months under 1945 emergency regulations; Palestinian charged with sending threatening letters to West Bank personalities with signature of Village Leagues and Meir Kehane.

Arab Governments: Jordan's King Hussein praises Reagan initiative as "constructive," offers to play "active part" in creating West Bank-Jordan confederation, but asserts he has no authority to negotiate on behalf of PLO.

US and Other Countries: White House condemns Gemayel assassination, promises support for Lebanon, fears renewed violence; Morris Draper arrives in Israel on way to Lebanon; Alexander Haig, at UJA dinner, attacks Reagan plan's call for freeze on West Bank settlements as a "serious mistake"; Brezhnev urges Arafat to reject Reagan initiative, affirms support for PLO.