The Palestine Chronology

Israeli aircraft strike an alleged Islamic Jihad training camp deep inside Syria, just 10 mi. northwest of Damascus in ‘Ayn Sahib, injuring at least 1 security guard. Israel says the attack is in response to the 10/4 suicide bombing, in which it claims Syria played a “detailed role in orchestrating.” Syria denies this, denounces the strike as a “grave escalation,” says its response will be diplomatic. (The Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine–General Command [PFLP-GC] says ‘Ayn Sahib is its fmr. training base, which is no longer active; says the site was patrolled by 1 civilian guard, who was injured.) The U.S. says that “we have repeatedly told the government of Syria that it is on the wrong side in the war on terror and that it must stop harboring terrorists.” Bush phones Sharon after the attack on Syria, expresses condolences on the 10/4 bombing, agrees with Sharon on “the need to continue fighting terrorism,” does not criticize Israel’s strike. (AFP, IDF Radio, MENA, VOI, XIN 10/5 in WNC 10/7; XIN 10/5, AN, ATL, DS, DUS, IRNA, JT, MENA, QA, al-Ra’i, THWR, TSHR, VIRI, XIN 10/6 in WNC 10/8; SATN 10/5 in WNC 11/8; MM, NYT, WP, WT 10/6; NHR 10/6, AN, IRNA, ITAR-TASS, SA, SFR, THWR, TSHR 10/7 in WNC 10/9; SFR 10/6, THWR, TSHR 10/8 in WNC 10/11; SANA, SARR, SATN 10/6, SANA, SATN 10/7 in WNC 11/11; MM 10/7; AFP, AYM, DUS, HA, ITARTASS, JT, MA, MENA, NHR, al-Quds, al-Ra’i, SFR, YA 10/7 in WNC 10/10; MM, PR 10/8; MM, WJW 10/9; MEI 10/10; PR 10/15; JPI 10/17; NHR 10/17 in NC 10/23)

Arafat declares a 30-day state of emergency in the occupied territories, issues a presidential decree appointing a 9-mbr. emergency cabinet, with Qurai‘, negotiating a regular cabinet since 9/10, as PM. The emergency cabinet is to serve for 1 mo. (VOP 10/5 in WNC 10/7; HA, MM, NYT, WP, WT 10/6; VOP 10/6 in WNC 10/8; WP 10/7; VOI, VOP 10/7 in WNC 10/9; AYM 10/7 in WNC 10/10; PR 10/8; PSCT 10/9 in WNC 10/11; MEI 10/10)

In the occupied territories, the IDF fires on Palestinians attempting to bypass a new checkpoint separating Rafah and Khan Yunis (imposed after the 10/4 bombing), killing 1 Palestinian, wounding 3; begins bulldozing Palestinian land nr. Morag settlement, 100 dunams nr. Hebron; demolishes 19 Palestinian homes in Rafah, 2 in Jenin (including the home of the 10/4 bomber’s family). (HA, NYT, WP 10/6; PCHR 10/7, 10/9)

The IDF continues operations in Bayt Hanun (demolishing 2 factories), Tulkarm r.c. and town; demolishes 1 Palestinian home outside Gaza City, 1 in Hebron; bulldozes 25 dunams nr. Khan Yunis; conducts arrest raids in al-Khadir. Palestinians report that since 5/22, the IDF has bulldozed 232 dunams of land s. of Gaza City, btwn. al-Mintar crossing and Shuhada Junction. (HP 5/26; LAW, PCHR 5/29)

After 6 hrs. of debate, Sharon’s cabinet narrowly approves (12-7, with 4 abstentions) “the steps set out in the road map,” but attaches 14 reservations as conditions. (JT, MA 5/25, Arab News, AYM, QA 5/26 in WNC 5/27; NYT, WP, WT 5/26; AYM 5/26, QA 5/27 in WNC 5/28; HA, MM 5/27; SARR 5/27, THWR, TSHR 5/28 in WNC 7/1; MM, PR 5/28; al-Quds 5/28 in WNC 5/30; Syria Times 5/28 in WNC 7/2; WJW 5/29; MEI 5/30; THWR, TSHR 5/31 in WNC 7/10; JPI 6/6)

In Jerusalem 10's of ultraorthodox Jews attempt to storm the al-Aqsa Mosque compound but are kept back by Israeli police. In Hebron, 5,000 settlers rally against IDF redeployment in the city. (MM 9/30)

Dep. cmdr. in chief of the Syrian army, Chinese military delegation discuss ways of improving bilateral military cooperation. (SARR 9/30 in WNC 10/2)

Israeli PM Netanyahu, King Hussein meet in Amman. Jordan regrets that Netanyahu's 25-mbr. entourage includes no FMin. officials, high ranking diplomats. (MM 8/5; AFP, JT, RJ 8/5 in FBIS 8/5; JTV, RJ 8/5 in FBIS 8/6; CSM, NYT, WP, WT 8/6; CSM, MM, WT 8/7; WJW 8/8; NYT 8/9)

Israel allows another 5,000 Palestinian workers to enter Israel, bringing total number of permits issued to 37,000. (NYT, WP 8/6; WJW 8/8)

In s. Lebanon, Hizballah fires on IDF post, wounding 2; captures 1 SLA mbr. (QY 8/5, SARR 8/6 in FBIS 8/6; MM, WP 8/6; WT 8/7; WJW 8/8)

In Washington, Pres. Clinton signs legislation imposing sanctions on foreign companies that do business with Iran, Libya. Bill is expected to strain U.S. relations with the EU, which has threatened retaliation. In particular, France, Germany, Italy do significant trade with Iran, Libya. (NYT, WT 8/6; NYT 8/7; MEI 8/16)

Jordan's King Hussein arrive in Damascus for 1st time in 2 yrs.; holds "very successful" reconciliation mtg. with Pres. Asad. (JTV, RJ, SARR 8/3, al-Dustur 8/4, JT 8/5 in FBIS 8/5; WP, WT 8/4; WP 8/6; WJW 8/8)

In wake of riot 8/2, Fatah holds pro-Arafat rally in Tulkarm, PA releases 23 Hamas mbrs. to stem anger. (QY 8/3 in FBIS 8/5; MM 8/5) (see 7/7)

In Jericho, PA military court sentences 3 PA police officers to prison terms for torturing Jumayil to death. 2 men are given 15-yr. terms, 1 is given 10 yrs. (VOP 8/3, AFP 8/4 in FBIS 8/5; NYT 8/4; CSM, Houston Chronicle, NYT 8/5; PR 8/9; MEI 8/16; WP 8/20) (see 8/1)

In Latakiyya, PA's Arafat makes his 1st official visit to Syria since 1993, meets with Pres. Asad. (MM 7/25; VOA, VOP 7/25 in FBIS 7/25; al-Hayat, SARR, SATN 7/25, SARR 7/26 in FBIS 7/26; CSM, MM 7/26; al-Hayat, PBC, VOP 7/26, VOP 7/27 in FBIS 7/29; MEI 8/2)

Israeli police escort 100s of Temple Mount Faithful in pair to al-Aqsa courtyard for prayers; arrest 12 mbrs. of Hay Veqayam who try to enter the site. (QY 7/25, JP 7/26 in FBIS 7/26; MEI 8/2) (see 7/24)

In testimony before the House International Relations Comm., Philip Wilcox, State Dept. coordinator for counterterrorism, says the U.S. believes Syria provides save haven and logistical support to Arab and non-Arab "terrorist" groups (incl., Hamas, Hizballah, Islamic Jihad) but has no evidence of direct Syrian involvement in "terrorist" acts since 1986. Rep. Benjamin Gilman (R-NY) called this session of the comm. despite the objections of the State Dept. that it would alienate Pres. Asad, further hinder resumption of Syrian-Israeli talks. (WT 7/26; WJW 8/1)

Israeli High Court passes resolution, allowing small groups of Temple Mount Faithful to enter the al-Aqsa mosque courtyards 7/25 to perform Jewish religious rites for fast day. PA, Jordan, Syria protest. 10's of Jews immediately try to storm the mosque but are blocked by Israeli police. (QY 7/24, QY, al-Ra'i, SARR, VOP 7/25, RMC 7/26 in FBIS 7/26; MENA 7/31 in FBIS 8/1; RJ 7/31 in FBIS 8/2; MEI, PR 8/2)

PA policeman shoots at suspicious car nr. checkpoint outside Qalqilya, slightly wounding girl; is held by PA for questioning. IDF puts closure on Qalqilya. (QY 7/25 in FBIS 7/26; QY 7/28 in FBIS 7/29)

Donors mtg. is held in Gaza. (IGPO 7/14 in FBIS 7/16)

In Muscat, Damascus Declaration group closes 2-day mtg.; issues final statement on the peace process. (AFP, SARR, Sultanate of Oman Television Network 7/14 in FBIS 7/15; MM 7/15; SARR 7/15 in FBIS 7/16; MM, NYT 7/17; JP 7/27)

Israeli settler leaders announce plans to double or triple their numbers (to btwn. 300,000 and 500,000 settlers), build 8-10 new settlements, expand existing settlements under Netanyahu's tenure. (QY, VOP 7/14 in FBIS 7/15; MM, WP 7/15; MEI 7/19; JP 7/27)

PM Netanyahu speaks before joint session of Congress. Rep. Benjamin Gilman (R-NY), noted for holding up Middle East Peace Facilitation Act aid to the PLO, calls speech "an eloquent and visionary tour de force." Netanyahu then hold talks with congressional leaders, representatives fr. Arab embassies, CIA Dir. John Deutch. (ITV, QY, SARR 7/10, QY, YA 7/11 in FBIS 7/11; MM, NYT, WJW, WP, WT 7/11; CSM 7/12; QY 7/14 in FBIS 7/15; MM 7/16; WJW 7/18; MEI 7/19; JP 7/20)

In Hebron, Palestinians clash with Israeli police after PM Netanyahu fails to set a date for redeployment in the city; IDF seals area, imposes curfew. Palestinians had hoped Clinton would have pressured Netanyahu to set a timetable for redeployment, easing of closure. (QY 7/20 in FBIS 7/10; QY, RE, SARR 7/10, al-Hayat, QY, RE, SARR, VOP 7/11 in FBIS 7/11; CSM, MM, WP, WT 7/11; RMC 7/10, al-Hayat, QY 7/11, VOP 7/12 in FBIS 7/12; MM 7/15)

Bowing to pressure fr. ultraorthodox Jews, Israeli Transportation Min. agrees to close Bar Ilan Street, 1 of Jerusalem's main roads, for most of the Jewish Sabbath for a 4-mo. trial period. Israeli High Court overrides his order with a temporary injunction to keep the road open. Israeli police expect demonstrations, violent classes btwn. orthodox, secular Jews. (WT 7/11)

After Organization of African Unity gives near unanimous backing to UN Secy. Gen. Butros-Ghali in his bid for a 2d term. U.S. again says it will veto him if he runs. (WT 7/11) (see 6/23)

Hizballah releases 2 SLA prisoners, proposes to exchange 17 other SLA mbrs. in its custody for 200 Lebanese nationals held in al-Khiyam prison in s. Lebanon. (MENA, VOL 7/10 in FBIS 7/11; MM 7/17)

At the White House, Israel PM Netanyahu holds 1st mtg. with Pres. Clinton; also meets with Secy. of State Christopher, Secy. of Defense William Perry, leaders of AIPAC, World Bank Pres. James Wolfensohn. (ITV, QY, al-Ra'i, SARR 7/9, QY, SARR 7/10 in FBIS 7/10; MM, NYT, WP, WT 7/10; MENA 7/10 in FBIS 7/11; WJW 7/11; MEI 7/19; JP 7/20)

In s. Lebanon, SLA mistakes group of Lebanese civilians for Hizballah patrol; opens fire, wounding 1. (WT 7/10; HA 7/10 in FBIS 7/11)

Before leaving for the U.S. to meet with Pres. Clinton, PM Netanyahu swears in Sharon as infrastructure M; appoints Eliahu Ben-Elissar as new amb. to the U.S., effective 9/1. (ITV, QY 7/8 in FBIS 7/9; MM, NYT, WP, WT 7/9; WT 7/10; MA 7/10, HA 7/11 in FBIS 7/11; WJW 7/11; JP 7/13, 7/20; CSM 7/23; WT 7/24)

Before leaving for the U.S., Israeli PM Netanyahu meets with Golan settler leaders, who present him with a development plan; says he will act to accelerate the plan's implementation upon his return, he has no plans of withdrawing fr. the Heights. (QY, SARR 7/8, SARR 7/9 in FBIS 7/9; SARR 7/16 in FBIS 7/17)

In a press conference on Netanyahu's upcoming visit, White House spokesman Michael McCurry refuses 3 times to state U.S. policy on Israeli settlements, says position has not changed but there is no "usefulness" in restating the U.S. view. Later, on condition of anonymity, a White House officials reaffirms that the U.S. believes settlements complicate negotiations. Administration seeks to avoid clash with Netanyahu on the settlement issue before 11/96 elections. (WT 7/9)

Turkish PM Erbakan's government wins (278-265) confidence vote. Israel, Syria send their congratulations. (CSM, MM, NYT, WP 7/9; MA, SARR 7/9 in FBIS 7/9; MM 7/11) (see 6/28)

PC opens 2-day session in Ramallah. (VOP 7/5 in FBIS 7/5; PWR 7/7; PR 7/12)

Israeli sources say formation of a cease-fire monitoring comm. for s. Lebanon is being held up by a disagreement btwn. Israel, U.S. over the assurances the U.S. promised Israel in a side letter accompanying the cease-fire agmt. (see 4/26). Based on the letter, which has never been made public, Israel demands comm. decisions be made by consensus, not by majority; freedom of movement in s. Lebanon; each country would be able to send inspectors to its own territory only. U.S. disagrees. (HA 7/3 in FBIS 7/3) (see 6/19)

Israeli FM Levy threatens to resign his post if PM Netanyahu does not finalize cabinet position for Sharon within 5 days. (MM 7/3; QY 7/3 in FBIS 7/3; NYT, WT 7/4) (see 6/19)

PA police find Islamic Jihad figure Salih Tahayna stabbed to death nr. al-Bireh. Tahayna was sentence by Israel to 30 yrs. in jail for firing at IDF soldiers, but escaped earlier this yr. during a prisoner transfer. Islamic Jihad blames Mossad, vows revenge. (AFP, QPAR, SARR 7/4 in FBIS 7/5)

PA begins releasing some of the 1,000 Hamas, Islamic Jihad mbrs. arrested after the series of suicide bombings 2+n3/96. (PR 7/12) (see 6/16)

Secy. of State Christopher meets with Netanyahu. Then discusses with FM Levy a CIA report that says N. Korea recently has supplied Egypt with military equipment that could be used to build Scud-C surface-to-surface missiles. Egypt says it has only bought spare parts for earlier make of Scud. PA, Arab states are "not encouraged" by mtg., see Christopher as parroting Netanyahu, criticize him for not mentioning UN Res. 242. (QY, YA 6/25, JP 6/26 in FBIS 6/26; CSM, MM, WP, WT 6/26; SARR 6/26 in FBIS 6/27; Syria Times 6/26 in FBIS 7/1; MM 6/27; MEI 7/5; JP 7/6; WT 7/31)

PC mbr. `Abbas Zaki (F-Hebron) is detained at the Allenby Bridge crossing for 6 hrs.; IDF temporarily confiscates his passport, VIP card before allowing him to leave to attend a mtg. in Vietnam. (ITV 6/25 in FBIS 6/26; PR 7/5; NYT 8/15)

2-day PA-EU partnership and cooperation mtg. begins in Brussels. (Le Soir [Brussels] 6/26 in FBIS 6/28)

Outside the al-Khobar U.S. military barracks nr. Dahran, Saudi Arabia, truck bomb detonates, killing 23 Americans, wounding more than 100. No one claims responsibility. (MM 6/25; MM, NYT, WP, WT 6/26, 6/27)

Arab Summit closes in Cairo. States issue final statement. Tone of message is stronger than expected, prompting PM Netanyahu to reply that "for the process to continue successfully . . ., such demands must be stopped." Egyptian Pres. Mubarak also says that summit participants discussed, generally support UN Secy. Gen. Butros-Ghali's decision to seek a 2d term in office (see 6/19). (MENA 6/23 in FBIS 6/25; QY, RE, SARR 6/23, JT 6/24 in FBIS 6/24; MENA 6/23, 6/24 in FBIS 6/25; CSM, MM, NYT, WP, WT 6/24; JP 6/24 in FBIS 6/27; PR 6/28; JP 6/29; WJW 7/4; MEI 7/5; JP 7/6; PWR 7/7)

In Amman, leaders of the Iraqi National Accord (INA), a Sunni Muslim group opposed to Iraqi Pres. Saddam Hussein, say they have received funds fr. the CIA, are working to implement CIA-backed plot to topple Hussein. (WP 6/23)

In Damascus, Egypt, Syria, Saudi Arabia close 2 days of talks to show unity, support for peace process. Secy. of State Christopher warns Arabs not to "prejudge" Israel, "close doors." Arab states, particularly Syria, call warning one sided, insulting. (WP 6/8; MENA, RMC, SARR 6/8 in FBIS 6/10; NYT, WP, WT 6/9; CSM, WT 6/10; MM 6/12)

Hizballah attacks 2 Israeli patrols in s. Lebanon, wounding 2 IDF soldiers. (CSM 6/10)

With all regular ballots in the Israeli elections counted, Netanyahu is ahead by 21,399 votes (0.7 percent); Likud, Labor are losing Knesset seats; religious parties are gaining seats. 150,000 absentee and military ballots, which in the past have gone overwhelmingly to Likud, have yet to be counted. The Israeli stock market drops 5 percent, value of the shekel falls. (MM, WP 5/30; IDF Radio, QY 5/30 in FBIS 5/30; MENA, QY, SARR 5/30, JP, QY 5/31 in FBIS 5/31; CSM, NYT, WP, WT 5/31; MEI, PR 6/7)

Netanyahu says that if he wins he will work to strengthen peace btwn. Israel, "Arab states with whom Israel already has peaceful relations." (QY 5/30 in FBIS 5/31; NYT 5/31)

Aides describe Pres. Clinton as "crestfallen" over Netanyahu's probable win, believing it to be a setback to his image as a peacemaker. Yet, Clinton says that, whatever the results, the U.S. will continue its support for Israel. (MM 5/30; NYT, WP, WT 5/31) (see 5/28)

PA says it will deal with any election outcome; if Likud wins, it must still continue the peace process. (JMCC, ITV 5/30 in FBIS 5/31)

Hamas says Netanyahu win would be a declaration of war against Palestinians, Arabs. (QY, RMC 5/30 in FBIS 5/31; AFP 6/2 in FBIS 6/3)

In Tel Aviv, Labor's M Ehud Barak, Finance M Avraham Shohat, Housing M Binyamin Ben-Eliezer meet to discuss party's future. Some see mtg. as an attempt to oust PM Peres from the party; others see it as an attempt to outflank Interior M Hayim Ramon's bid for party leadership, assuming Peres will resign. Peres is furious with Barak for holding the mtg. (IDF Radio, QY 5/30 in FBIS 5/30; IDF Radio, ITV 5/31, IDF Radio 6/1 in FBIS 6/3; NYT 6/4; IDF Radio 6/5 in FBIS 6/7)

Likud opens unofficial contacts with ultraorthodox parties regarding formation of a coalition government. PM Peres says he would not consider joining a Likud-led coalition; other Labor mbrs. say they would. (QY 5/30 in FBIS 5/31; WP 5/31)

Tsomet leader Rafael Eitan says Oslo agmts. must be reopened, because the winning camp's views differ from those of the previous government. PA denounces his statement. (IDF Radio 5/30 in FBIS 5/30) (see 3/12)

In s. Lebanon, Hizballah detonates 2 roadside bombs, killing 4 IDF soldiers, wounding 7 IDF soldiers, 2 journalists, 1 SLA mbr. (VOL 5/30 in FBIS 5/30; ITV, VOL 5/30 in FBIS 5/31; MM, NYT, WT 5/31; JP 6/8)

PM Peres, Likud leader Netanyahu hold their only televised debate before the Israeli elections. Commentators generally feel Netanyahu has better on-camera skills, but Peres has more substance. Opinion polls say race is still too close to call. (ITV 5/26, HA, ITV, JP, MA, SATN 5/27 in FBIS 5/28; NYT, WP, WT 5/27; VOP 5/27 in FBIS 5/29; WP 5/28; PR 5/31)

IDF tightens closure on West Bank, Gaza, forbidding all Palestinians entry into Israel in advance of the 5/29 elections. (NYT 5/28) (see 5/23)

PA releases Sarraj fr. custody 3 days after his family releases a letter, bearing his signature, which disavows the comments attributed to him. (NYT, WP 5/27; PR 5/31; MEI 6/7; JP 6/8) (see 5/21)

In Damascus, Lebanese PM Hariri, Syrian VP `Abd al-Halim Khaddam discuss cease-fire monitoring group. (SARR 5/27 in FBIS 5/28) (see 5/21)

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 Bethlehem, 2-day Palestinian Council (PC) mtg. closes. (PBC, VOP 5/16 in FBIS 5/17; PR 5/24)

Israeli television reports that the PA's Yasir Arafat suffered a minor stroke earlier in the wk., while in Cairo. PA says he collapsed fr. a severe case of the flu, exhaustion. (ITV 5/16 in FBIS 5/17; AFP 5/19 in FBIS 5/20; Rose al-Yusuf 5/20 in FBIS 5/30)

Israel asks the PA to extradite 4 Palestinians serving sentences in PA jails for attacks inside Israel. PA says that since the men have been tried, convicted, and are serving time for the crimes under PA custody, the PA has no legal obligation to turn them over to Israel. (QY 5/16)

IDF tightens closure on West Bank, Gaza. Only Palestinians working in the Erez industrial zone may go to their jobs. Goods, produce may go through Qarni, Sufa crossing points. 50 Palestinian reporters will be allowed in to cover the run-up to the 5/29 Israeli elections. (QY 5/16 in FBIS 5/16; MEI 5/24) (see 5/13)

IDF declares Ramallah a closed military zone for Arafat's visit, meaning no Israeli traffic may enter the city. An identical closed military zone order for Nablus is lifted (see 5/15). (IDF Radio 5/16 in FBIS 5/17)

In Washington, France, Israel, Lebanon, Syria, the U.S. end a wk. of talks on the Israeli-Lebanese cease-fire monitoring group; agree on draft for monitoring procedures, send it to their respective capitals for approval. (MM 5/16; RL, RMC, SARR 5/16, QY 5/17 in FBIS 5/17; MM 5/17; WP 5/18; VOL 5/17, RL 5/19 in FBIS 5/20; MEI 5/24) (see 5/15)

In Ankara, Jordanian King Hussein, Turkish Pres. Suleyman Demirel hold 1-day mtg. on bilateral issues, incl. water, Iraq. Demirel assures king that Turkey's military cooperation agmt. with Israel does not harm Jordan's security. King Hussein says talks are positive, sides agree on all issues. (al-Dustur, RJ 5/16 in FBIS 5/16; MM 5/17)

Israeli authorities release information on man involved in the 4/12 East Jerusalem hotel explosion. They say the man, Husayn Maqdad, is a Lebanese Hizballah operative who was plotting a plane hijacking; claim he spent time at the Iranian embassy in Beirut. Hizballah denies having contact with him. (MM 5/16; AFP, QY 5/16 in FBIS 5/16; IDF Radio 5/16, QY 5/17 in FBIS 5/17; MM, NYT, WP, WT 5/17; PR 5/24; JP 5/25) (see 4/14)

In Nazareth, Israeli PM Shimon Peres meets with Israeli Arab voters to build their support, weakened by the closure of the territories and Israel's 4/96 assault on Lebanon. (NYT 5/18)

Israel launches its 1st commercial satellite, AMOS-I. (MM 5/16; JP 5/25)

1-day Antiterrorism summit is held in Sharm al-Shaykh. (CSM, MM, WP 3/13; MENA, RE, RJ, SARR 3/13 in FBIS 3/13; ITV, MENA, PBC, SARR 3/13, HA 3/14 in FBIS 3/14; MM, NYT, WP, WT 3/14; MEI, MM 3/15; MM 3/18; WJW 3/21; VOA 3/21 in FBIS 3/21; UNRWA News 3/27; MEI 3/29)

Israel opens some official channels with the PA; agrees to increase the number of trucks transporting foodstuffs, pharmaceuticals into the West Bank, Gaza to 75/day from 35/day; partially lifts wk.-long naval blockade on Gaza, allowing fishermen to operate within 4 mi. of the coast. (MM 3/13; CSM, NYT 3/15; WT 3/16)

In Beirut, Lebanon, an appeals court frees 2 fmr. PFLP mbrs. convicted of 1976 kidnapping, killing if U.S. Amb. Francis Meloy his economic counselor, and his driver. Judges rule that killings were covered under the 1990 amnesty for political crimes. U.S. denounces verdict. (NYT, WP 3/14; al-Nahar 3/14, MENA, VOL 3/18, RL 3/19 in FBIS 3/19; WP, WT 3/19; RL 3/19, 3/20 in FBIS 3/20; MM 3/20, 3/22)

U.S. offers $2-m. reward for the capture of escaped Abu-Abbas hijacker Molqi. (WT 3/14) (see 2/26)

To protest the antiterrorism summit in Sharm al-Shaykh, Hizballah attacks several IDF, SLA posts in s. Lebanon, loosing 2 cadres, inflicting no casualties. (MM 3/13; WT 3/15)

1st 3 days of the 3d round of Syrian-Israeli talks closes in Maryland. (SARR 3/2 in FBIS 3/4)

In Gaza, 7 Hamas mbrs. attempt infiltrate the Qatif Bloc settlement. 5 are caught by IDF, 2 escaped into PA territory to be captured by PA police. (QY 3/2 in FBIS 3/4; NYT, WT 3/3; NYT 3/4)

Third round of Syrian-Israeli "exploratory" talks convene in Maryland. (MM, WT 2/28; JP, MA, SARR 2/28 in FBIS 2/28; NYT 2/29; QY 2/29 in FBIS 2/29; MA, QY 3/1 in FBIS 3/1)

Arafat demands Islamists turn in unlicensed weapons, explosives before the PA security forces begin house-to-house searches 3/1 or risk 15-yr. sentences for possession. PA detains 70 more Hamas supporters in Gaza. (VOP 2/28 in FBIS 2/29; WP, WT 2/29; QY 2/29 in FBIS 2/29)

Arafat convenes military field court comprising the heads of Nablus security branches to try the Qalqilya PA Preventive Security Force (PSF) head Col. `Abd al-Rahim Abu `Awn, PA police head Col. Musa Jadallah for actions in violation of the Oslo agmts. for attending memorial rally for Yahya Ayyash. (QY, VOP 2/28 in FBIS 2/29)

Israel eases the closure on the West Bank, Gaza, allowing produce to cross the borders. (IGPO 2/28 in FBIS 3/1; NYT 2/29)

In Damascus, Iranian VP Habibi meets with Palestinian rejectionist leaders, incl. Hamas, Islamic Jihad officials. Habibi then heads to Beirut to meet with Lebanese Pres. Ilyas Hrawi, who tells him that Lebanon supports Hizballah, but Hizballah must conform to Lebanon's political stance. (MM 2/28; RL, VOL 2/28 in FBIS 2/29; MM 2/29; SARR 2/29, RL, SA 3/1 in FBIS 3/1; MENA 3/1 in FBIS 3/6)

Bus bomb explodes in downtown Jerusalem, killing 23 people (incl. 2 Americans), wounding 49. Second suicide bomb explodes at IDF hitchhiking post nr. Ashkelon, killing 2, wounding 29. Group calling itself The Yahya Ayyash Units, New Disciples claims responsibility in revenge for Ayyash's slaying 1/5 and to mark the 2d anniversary of the Hebron massacre. Israel seals West Bank, Gaza; halts all negotiations with the PA. (IDF Radio, JMCC, JTV, QPAR, QY, RJ, VOL, VOP 2/25, RJ, SARR, VOP 2/26 in FBIS 2/26; CSM, MM, NYT, WP, WT 2/26; NYT 2/27; WJW 2/29; MEI, PR 3/1; PR 3/8)

Following bombings, PA police immediately detain 120 Hamas, Islamic Jihad supporters across the West Bank, Gaza. Hamas's Izzeddin al-Qassam Brigades issues a leaflet saying it is not responsible for the bombings. (QY 2/25, IDF Radio, QY 2/26 in FBIS 2/26; IDF Radio, ITV 2/26 in FBIS 2/27; MM, NYT 2/27; QY 2/27 in FBIS 2/27; MM, NYT, WT 2/28)

In Ashkelon, an Israeli truck runs into a bus carrying Palestinian workers, injuring 20. (VOP 2/27 in FBIS 2/27)

Iraq, Syria open 6-day meeting on water issues in Damascus. (RMC, SARR 2/10 in FBIS 2/12; al-Safir 2/10, al-Hayat 2/13, al-Dustur 2/14 in FBIS 2/14; RMC 2/12 in FBIS 2/13; MM 2/15)

At close of a 2-day mtg. in El Arish, Egypt, PLO Exec. Comm. mbrs. delay indefinitely setting date for PNC mtg. to amend 12 articles of the PLO charter. (MM 2/6; MENA, RE, RMC 2/6 in FBIS 2/6; VOP 2/6 in FBIS 2/7; CSM, WP 2/7; WT 2/8)

In Damascus, Secy. of State Christopher, Pres. Asad hold 3 hrs. of talks after which Asad agrees to hold 3d round of talks with Israel in Maryland 2/26. (MM 2/6; SARR 2/6 in FBIS 2/6; SARR 2/6 in FBIS 2/7; NYT, WP, WT 2/7; WT 2/8)

PM Peres visits SLA Cmdr. Lahd in Marja'uyun, s. Lebanon, to check on the status of troops in the self-declared security zone. (QY 2/6 in FBIS 2/7; MM, WT 2/7) (see 1/23)

Lebanese military prosecutor files lawsuit against 89 fmr. Lebanese army soldiers for collaborating with Israel. (WT 2/7) (see 1/16)

Jordan's state security court sentences Atta Abu Rushteh, spokesman of the banned Islamic Liberation Party, to 3 yrs. in jail for slandering King Hussein by giving a statement critical of Jordan's normalization with Israel. (WP 2/7) (see 12/19)

Election rerun is held without incident in 2 voting districts in North Gaza. (VOP 1/31 in FBIS 2/1; VOP 2/1 in FBIS 2/2) (see 1/24)

2d round of Syrian-Israeli talks closes in Maryland. (QY 1/31 in FBIS 1/31; ITV, SARR 1/31, QY 2/1 in FBIS 2/1; SARR 2/1 in FBIS 2/2; MM 2/1, 2/2; NYT 2/7; JP 2/10)

IDF appoints its 1st imam to provide religious services to Muslim soldiers stationed in n. Israel. (IL 1/31)

IDF closes off Ramallah to Israeli traffic after Palestinians throw stones at passing vehicles. (QY 1/31 in FBIS 1/31)

PSF launches manhunt for 2 men possibly affiliated with Abu Nidal who illegally entered Gaza with 1st 54 policemen allowed in fr. Egypt 1/30; 3d man is arrested immediately. IDF freezes entry of remaining policemen until issue is resolved. (VOP 1/30 in FBIS 1/31; HA 1/31, QY 2/1 in FBIS 2/1)

Arafat arrives in Amman for 2-day visit with King Hussein. (JTV 1/27, RJ, JTV 1/28 in FBIS 1/29; MM 1/29)

In Damascus, Lebanese Pres. Hrawi, Syrian Pres. Asad open 2-day Syrian-Lebanese Higher Council mtg. (SARR 1/27, 1/28 in FBIS 1/29; MM 1/29; al-Hayat 1/31 in FBIS 2/1)

IDF kills 4 suspected Hizballah mbrs. on maneuvers in s. Lebanon. Israeli gunboats fire on fishermen off coast of Tyre. (QY 1/27 in FBIS 1/29) (see 10/29)

Syria, Israel end 3 days of talks in Maryland, reportedly hit an impasse. Israeli Environmental M Sarid blames FM Barak. (MM 1/25, 1/26; QY, SARR 1/26, IDF Radio 1/27, HA, MA, QY, YA 1/28 in FBIS 1/29; WT 1/27; MM 1/29; JP 2/3)

Without admitting responsibility, Israel gives $400,000 in restitution to widow of Moroccan man (mistakenly believed to be PLO intelligence chief Hassan Salameh) allegedly killed by Mossad agents in Norway in 1973. (NYT, WP 1/27)

Congress passes (371-42 House, 82-8 Senate) 1996 foreign appropriations bill as part of continuing resolution to fund the government through 3/15. Resolution allows full payment to Israel within 2 wks. of $3 b. in civilian and military aid, $80 m. for refugee resettlement; includes provisions giving Israel equal-to-NATO status for stockpiling of U.S. weapons, preventing U.S. defense contractors fr. legally overcharging Israel. (QY 1/28 in FBIS 1/29; JP 2/3, 2/10)

CEC decides to rerun voting at 2 polling sites in Gaza on 1/31 because of disputes over initial results and recount. International supervisors will be present. (VOP 1/24 in FBIS 1/24) (see 1/22)

Syrian, Israeli teams (incl. military experts) resume exploratory talks in Maryland. (MM, WP 1/24; IDF Radio, ITV, al-Hayat, SATN, SARR 1/24, SARR 1/25 in FBIS 1/25; WJW, WT 1/25)

IDF detains 9 Lebanese citizens in s. Lebanon, releases 3. UNIFIL demands release of remaining 6. (RL 1/24 in FBIS 1/24; RL 1/24 in FBIS 1/25)

In special ceremony, Israeli Interior M Hayim Ramon signs passport and certificate of citizenship of Jonathan Pollard, officially making him an Israeli citizen. U.S. Amb. to Israel Martin Indyk says U.S. will continue to consider Pollard an American. (QY 1/24 in FBIS 1/25; Davar 1/26 in FBIS 1/26) (see 12/6, 12/11)

Secy. of State Christopher meets with Pres. Asad in Damascus, then returns to Israel to brief PM Peres. (MM 1/11; IDF Radio, HA, MA, QY, SARR 1/11 in FBIS 1/11; IDF Radio 1/11 in FBIS 1/16; MM, WT 1/12)

Israeli police prevent fmr. PLO negotiator Hanan Ashrawi, who is running for a seat on the Palestinian Council, entering Jerusalem to campaign; arrest 4 Palestinians in Bayt Safafa for putting up campaign posters. Israeli border police break up election rally for Fatah candidate, PA M Qurai` in East Jerusalem. (QY 1/13 in FBIS 1/16; PWR 1/23) (see 1/11)