77 / 15150 Results
  • December 19, 1994

    Syrian, Israeli negotiators meet in Washington; U.S. Special Middle East Coordinator Dennis Ross observes. Military officers do not participate, pending agreement on composition of expanded...

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  • December 12, 1994

    PM Rabin, FM Peres, Arafat end 4 days of talks in Stockholm on elections, Israeli security. Rabin tells Arafat to choose btwn. early elections, no redeployment or protracted negotiations on both...

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  • December 6, 1994

    U.S. Secy. of State Christopher arrives in Damascus; gives Pres. al-Asad proposal fr. PM Rabin. (MM 12/6; SARR 12/6 in FBIS 12/6; SARR, SATV 12/6 in FBIS 12/7; MM, NYT, WT 12/7; MEI 12/16) (see 11...

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  • December 4, 1994

    Israeli cabinet debates possible changes to basic agmts. outlined in DOP during next stage of Palestinian self-rule; many Ms oppose withdrawal of troops, fearing inability to protect settlers. (...

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  • November 25, 1994

    Rabin aide says Rabin is willing to consider 3-day IDF withdrawal fr. West Bank so Palestinian elections may be held. (IDF Radio 11/25 in FBIS 11/25; MM 11/28)

    10 Palestinians killed, 25...

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  • November 24, 1994

    PM Rabin, Arafat, in Spain to receive prize for international cooperation, discuss elections. (MM 11/24, 11/25; AFP 11/24 in FBIS 11/25)

    Israeli military court in Jenin sentences to death...

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  • November 20, 1994

    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...

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  • November 16, 1994

    Israeli PM Rabin says he will tie Palestinian elections to revocation of parts of PLO charter. (MM 11/17; NYT 11/18)

    PM Rabin arrives in U.S. to lobby Congress mbrs. for continuation of...

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  • November 3, 1994

    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...

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  • November 2, 1994

    PM Rabin rejects offer by 2 Hamas leaders, Shaykhs Jamil Hamami and Hussein Abu Kwaik, to open dialogue. Offer is thought to be response to Dep. FM Beilin's statements 10/24. (WT 11/3)

    Car...

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  • October 31, 1994

    Round of Israeli-Palestinian self-rule negotiations scheduled for today is postponed to 11/6 because of timing conflict with Casablanca conference. (RE 10/31 in FBIS 10/31)

    Responding to...

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  • October 30, 1994

    Government, business leaders fr. 80 countries meet in Casablanca for 3-day Middle East-North Africa Economic Summit to discuss regional stability, investment, development. Secy. of State...

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  • October 26, 1994

    Israeli-Jordanian peace treaty is signed on Israel-Jordan border by PM Rabin, King Hussein. Agmt. removes trade sanctions, opens border btwn. the countries, gives Jordan special rights to holy...

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  • October 19, 1994

    23 killed, 48 wounded when Hamas suicide bomber blows up bus in Tel Aviv. PM Rabin seals Gaza, West Bank indefinitely; vows hit suspects, their families; promises legislation permitting greater...

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  • October 17, 1994

    Israeli PM Rabin, Jordan's King Hussein initial draft of peace treaty in Amman, say annexes to final agmt. are pending. Treaty calls for return of territory to Jordan, Israeli lease of Jordanian...

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  • October 13, 1994

    PM Rabin asks Arafat to tell Hamas Israel is willing release movement's spiritual leader, Shaykh Yasin, in exchange for kidnapped IDF soldier. Hamas gives no definitive response. (QY 10/14 in FBIS...

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  • October 11, 1994

    Israel suspends all negotiations with PLO after Hamas announces it is holding an IDF soldier hostage. Hamas says it will kill the soldier 10/14 if 200 Palestinian prisoners--inc. Shaykh Ahmad...

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  • October 6, 1994

    Israeli PM Rabin informs Lt. Gen. Amnon Lipkin-Shahak he will succeed Lt. Gen. Barak as IDF chief of staff effective 1/1/95. (MM 10/5; JP 10/7 in FBIS 10/13; JP 10/15)

    Arafat orders arrest...

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  • September 29, 1994

    Israeli PM Rabin meets Jordan's King Hussein in Aqaba to discuss border issues. Hussein demands return of land transferred to Israel when border was moved in 1968. Rabin agrees in principle, but...

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  • September 27, 1994

    Arab League "strongly denounces" Israeli PM Rabin's decision to build new housing in West Bank settlement, calling it a "flagrant violation" of the DOP. (MENA, RE 9/27 in FBIS 9/28)

    Israeli...

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  • September 26, 1994

    Israeli PM Rabin approves plan to expand Givat Tal settlement in West Bank by 994 units to relieve housing shortage in Tel Aviv, tighten Israel's hold on area of West Bank at point where Israel is...

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  • September 25, 1994

    Israeli PM Rabin, PLO Chmn. Arafat hold unusually friendly mtg. to discuss elections, redeployment of IDF. Both agree to start negotiations on elections 10/3. Arafat tells Rabin he is trying to...

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  • September 21, 1994

    U.S. envoy Dennis Ross arrives in Jerusalem, talks with PM Peres and FM Rabin, says "real gaps" remain btwn. Israeli, Syrian positions. Later meets with Arafat, discusses aid, elections. (MM 9/21...

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  • September 12, 1994

    U.S. Secy. of State Christopher cancels plans to visit Middle East this wk. due to Haiti invasion, should arrive after 9/20. (MM 9/12)

    U.S. VP Gore announces U.S. will loan Palestinian...

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  • August 23, 1994

    Israeli PM Rabin says Israel will pull out of southern Lebanon in 9 mos. if, within 6 mos., Lebanese Army takes up positions on northern border of security zone, Hizballah is dismantled, SLA is...

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  • August 22, 1994

    PM Rabin postpones "safe passage" btwn. Gaza, Jericho citing lack of PNA action toward recent Hamas attacks. (MEI 8/26)

    Jordanian-Palestinian talks end in Amman. Joint comm. is formed to...

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  • August 17, 1994

    Israeli FM Shimon Peres says Israeli-Palestinian Liaison Comm. agreed to international temporary force for deployment in West Bank. Troops to be fr. Australia, Turkey, Norway, Finland, 2 European...

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  • August 15, 1994

    Israeli PM Rabin visits Gaza, says self-rule will not be expanded until the PNA makes "a serious effort" to curb attacks on Israelis. He also postpones scheduled introduction of free passage...

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  • August 10, 1994

    PLO Chmn. Arafat and Israeli PM Rabin hold 90-minute summit  mtg. at Erez crossing, Gaza Strip.  Israel agrees to open safe passages btwn. Gaza and Jericho, permit 6,000 more Palestinian workers...

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  • August 9, 1994

    Jericho Mayor Jamil Khalaf resigns, saying PNA had deprived him of authority.  Khalaf, appointed by occupation, reportedly was under investigation for corruption and was unhappy with local police...

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Syrian, Israeli negotiators meet in Washington; U.S. Special Middle East Coordinator Dennis Ross observes. Military officers do not participate, pending agreement on composition of expanded delegations. (MM 12/20; QY 12/20 in FBIS 12/20)

Likud leader Netanyahu says Israeli army officials already met secretly with Syrian Amb. Mu`allim, U.S. coordinator Ross in Washington this month. FM Peres does not deny mtg. took place. (MM 12/19; WT 12/20; MENA 12/21 in FBIS 12/22) (see 11/30)

Rabin's government wins no-confidence vote (56 to 41) brought by Ultraorthodox rabbis who used FM Peres comments that King David was an adulterer to force PM Rabin to bring religious parties into the coalition in hopes of derailing the peace process. (WT 12/19; NYT 12/19; IDF Radio 12/19 in FBIS 12/21; WJW 12/22)

FM Peres makes statement before Knesset denying contacts with Iraq, reaffirming support for sanctions after receiving "demand" fr. U.S. to help consolidate support for U.S. position on Iraq. (HA 12/21 in FBIS 12/22)

Arafat asks French FMin. to transport 2,000 Fateh cadres fr. camps in Sidon and Tyre, Lebanon, to Gaza to bolster police force, help contain Islamist opposition. Lebanese FM Faris Buwayz says Lebanon has no objection. (Al-Majd 12/19 in FBIS 12/20; Al-Ra'y 12/30 in FBIS 12/30; AFP 1/4, RL 1/5 in FBIS 1/5; MM 1/6)

Israeli Pres. Ezer Weizman arrives in Cairo for 3 days of talks with Pres. Mubarak. Weizman says UN Res. 242 must be applied to Jerusalem "so that part of it would remain Arab." (MM 12/19; MENA 12/19 in FBIS 12/20; MM 12/20, 12/21; MENA 12/20, QY 12/21 in FBIS 12/21)

Arafat meets with UNRWA delegation to discuss moving UNRWA headquarters to Gaza; meets with U.S. Congressional delegation to discuss recent events in peace process, Israeli land confiscation. (VOP 12/20 in FBIS 12/20; PR 12/24; MEI 1/6)

PFLP-GC says it is reducing its military, organizational cadres by 30% and stopping payments to families of martyrs and wounded because of financial problems. (Al-Muharrir 12/19 in FBIS 12/19; Shishan 1/27)

2 IDF soldiers, 1 Hizballah mbr., 1 Palestinian Islamic Revolutionary Army mbr. killed in clashes in southern Lebanon. IDF shells villages north of self-declared "security zone," wounding 1 civilian. (RL 12/19 in FBIS 12/20; MM 12/20, 12/21; QY 12/19 in FBIS 12/22; NYT 12/20)

PM Rabin, FM Peres, Arafat end 4 days of talks in Stockholm on elections, Israeli security. Rabin tells Arafat to choose btwn. early elections, no redeployment or protracted negotiations on both issues, delaying elections for 1 yr.; Arafat rejects both. Israel says it no longer rejects Hamas mbrs. participation in elections, only al-Qassam Brigade mbrs. (QY 12/11 in FBIS 12/12; CSM, MM 12/12; CSM, WT 12/13; HA 12/14 in FBIS 12/16; MEI 12/16; JP 12/16 in FBIS 12/19; JP 12/24)

Israeli Atty. Gen. orders Finance M to withhold transfer of Israeli funds to PA until law on implementation of Gaza-Jericho agmt. is enacted. PM Rabin fears delay may affect continuation of talks because large sums are involved. (QY 12/13 in FBIS 12/12) (see 11/23)

Joint Jordanian-Israeli transportation comm. meets at Dead Sea Hotel to discuss investment projects. (RJ 12/12 in FBIS 12/13; RJ 12/13 in FBIS 12/14)

Representatives fr. Israel, Jordan, Egypt, PA meet in Aqaba to discuss linking electricity grids. (JTV 12/12 in FBIS 12/13)

Israeli-Palestinian Center for Research and Information opens 2-day conference on environment in Jerusalem, attended by Israeli, Palestinian, Jordanian, Egyptian representatives. Parties announce establishment of joint Eco-Peace Task Force to monitor effects of increased development on environment. (JP 12/13 in FBIS 12/13)

PA calls on Mubarak to pressure Libya to let into the country 200 Palestinians stranded on Egyptian, Tunisian borders. 2 children have already died awaiting entry. (ITV 12/12 in FBIS 12/13; VOP 12/13 in FBIS 12/14) (see 12/11)

PA refuses Israeli request to extradite 2 Palestinian policemen who killed settler; says murder occurred before DOP was signed. (AFP 12/12 in FBIS 12/13; QY 1/1 in FBIS 1/4; WJW 1/5)

U.S. Secy. of State Christopher arrives in Damascus; gives Pres. al-Asad proposal fr. PM Rabin. (MM 12/6; SARR 12/6 in FBIS 12/6; SARR, SATV 12/6 in FBIS 12/7; MM, NYT, WT 12/7; MEI 12/16) (see 11/21)

Israel, PA meet in Cairo for discussions on implementing self-rule. PA negotiator, Planning M Shaath, accuses Israel of trying to renege on promises to withdraw troops. (MM, WT 12/6; VOP 12/6 in FBIS 12/6; IDF Radio, MENA 12/6 in FBIS 12/7; NYT 12/7; VOP 12/7 in FBIS 12/8)

Secy. of State Christopher arrives in Tel Aviv, briefs PM Rabin on talks with Pres. al-Asad, says Israel cannot be expected to withdraw troops fr. West Bank until Palestinian attacks on Israelis end. (MM 12/6; ITV 12/6, QY 12/7 in FBIS 12/7; NYT 12/7; MEI 12/16) (see 12/1)

PM Rabin approves another 5,000 work permits for Palestinians. (MM 12/6)

Likud leader Binyamin Netanyahu meets with King Hussein, Crown Prince Hassan in Amman, stresses Likud no longer believes Jordan is Palestine; discusses ways to combat terrorism, increase economic ties. (JTV 12/6 in FBIS 12/7; MM 12/7; ITV 12/6 in FBIS 12/8; JP 12/17)

Russia, PA sign protocol on security operations in Moscow, stating Russia will give security training to PA recruits. (Al-Quds 12/7 in FBIS 12/9)

5 Fateh mbrs. are wounded in shootout btwn. rival Fateh factions, one headed by Col. Rajub, head of PSF in West Bank. (QY 12/6 in FBIS 12/7)

1 IDF soldier killed, 1 wounded when bomb explodes nr. their post in southern Lebanon. IDF, SLA shell Hizballah positions in response. (FL 12/6 in FBIS 12/7; WP, WT 12/7; MEI 1/20)

Israeli cabinet debates possible changes to basic agmts. outlined in DOP during next stage of Palestinian self-rule; many Ms oppose withdrawal of troops, fearing inability to protect settlers. (NYT, WP 12/5)

CIA chief James Woolsey arrives in Israel to brief PM Rabin on Iranian, North Korean nuclear capability. (HA 12/22 in FBIS 12/23)

Arafat meets with U.S. Consul General Edward Abington, discusses peace talks, gives him letter for Pres. Clinton. (VOP 12/4 in FBIS 12/5)

PR reports that 16 Palestinian homes were totally demolished, 3 sealed by IDF in West Bank during November. (PR 12/4)

Rabin aide says Rabin is willing to consider 3-day IDF withdrawal fr. West Bank so Palestinian elections may be held. (IDF Radio 11/25 in FBIS 11/25; MM 11/28)

10 Palestinians killed, 25 injured in clashes btwn. pro-, anti-Arafat groups in `Ayn Hilwa r.c. in Lebanon. (MM 11/25; AFP, MENA, VOL 11/25 in FBIS 11/25; RL, VOL 11/25 in FBIS 11/28; RL 11/26 in FBIS 11/29; NYT, WT 11/26; JP 12/3; MEI 12/16; NYT 12/20)

PM Rabin, Arafat, in Spain to receive prize for international cooperation, discuss elections. (MM 11/24, 11/25; AFP 11/24 in FBIS 11/25)

Israeli military court in Jenin sentences to death Palestinian who plotted Hadera bus bombing 4/13. Judges say long prison terms have failed to prevent Islamist suicide bombers. Peres opposes sentence. (MM, NYT, WP, WT 11/25; IDF Radio, ITV, QY 11/25 in FBIS 11/25; QY 11/25 in FBIS 11/28; JP 12/3)

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)

Israeli PM Rabin says he will tie Palestinian elections to revocation of parts of PLO charter. (MM 11/17; NYT 11/18)

PM Rabin arrives in U.S. to lobby Congress mbrs. for continuation of Israel's $3 b. annual foreign aid. Incoming head of U.S. Foreign Relations Comm., Sen. Jesse Helms, has suggested halting Israel's $1.2 b. economic aid, simultaneously forgiving Israel's debt. (MM, WT 11/16; IDF Radio 11/16 in FBIS 11/17; WT 11/17; WJW 11/24)

Jordan lifts economic boycott against Israel, drafts customs regulations based on Israeli-Jordanian agmt. (AFP 11/16 in FBIS 11/16)

Arafat holds PLO Exec. Comm. mtg. in Gaza (previously scheduled for 11/15) after 2 mbrs. arrive fr. abroad. The 8 mbrs. in attendance cannot form the quorum of 12 required by PLO charter. Those attending are: Arafat, PA Finance M Muhammad Zuhdi al-Nashashibi, PA Education M Yasir `Amr, PA Culture M Yasir `Abid Rabbu, PA Labor M Samir Ghawshah, Palestine Liberation Front leader Ali Ishaq, independents Juweid Sourani, Jamal Sourani. (PR 11/20)

UNRWA Commissioner-General Ilter Türkmen meets with Arafat in Gaza to discuss current conditions, developments in autonomous areas, project coordination. (UNRWA News 11/30)

Arafat orders release of 30 Islamic Jihad mbrs. arrested in crackdown following 11/11 suicide bombing. (QY 11/16 in FBIS 11/17)

Jane's Intelligence Review says Israel has 200+ nuclear weapons, incl. gravity bombs, missiles, shells, mines; is currently testing sea-launched cruise missile. (WT 11/17, 11/19)

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)

PM Rabin rejects offer by 2 Hamas leaders, Shaykhs Jamil Hamami and Hussein Abu Kwaik, to open dialogue. Offer is thought to be response to Dep. FM Beilin's statements 10/24. (WT 11/3)

Car bomb kills Hani Abed, leader of Islamic Jihad in Gaza; armed supporters riot, vow reprisals against Israel; no one claims responsibility for attack. (AFP 11/2 in FBIS 11/3; MM 11/3; VOP 11/3 in FBIS 11/4; WT 11/3; JP 11/5)

U.S. Secy. of State Christopher announces he will resume trips btwn. Israel, Syria end of Nov. to spur Syrian track. (MM 11/3)

Arafat arrives in Cairo for talks with Pres. Mubarak on peace process, Casablanca; departs. (MENA 11/2 in FBIS 11/3)

In statement to Turkish reporters, PM Rabin suggests piping water fr. Turkey to Israel, Syria, Lebanon once peace agmts. are signed. (TRT Television, Ankara 11/2 in FBIS 11/3)

IDF orders Kiryat Arba settlers to remove stone monument honoring Baruch Goldstein, perpetrator of Hebron massacre. (WT 11/3; JP 11/12)

Israel shells areas of southern Lebanon. (RL 11/1 in FBIS 11/2)

Round of Israeli-Palestinian self-rule negotiations scheduled for today is postponed to 11/6 because of timing conflict with Casablanca conference. (RE 10/31 in FBIS 10/31)

Responding to Lebanese Pres. Hrawi's 10/29 statement, PM Rabin says Israel will not promise to withdraw fr. Lebanon to get stalled peace talks moving. (IDF Radio 10/31 in FBIS 10/31; AFP 10/31 in FBIS 11/1; MM, WP 11/1; MM 11/2; WJW 11/3)

Palestinian police take up posts at Rafah crossing point to Egypt. (MM 10/31; VOP 10/31 in FBIS 11/1; WT 11/2)

Government, business leaders fr. 80 countries meet in Casablanca for 3-day Middle East-North Africa Economic Summit to discuss regional stability, investment, development. Secy. of State Christopher encourages Arab states to end boycott of Israel, set up regional trade block. Lebanon, Syria boycott conference. (WT 10/30; CSM, NYT, WP, WT 10/31)

Israeli PM Rabin, Arafat meet in Casablanca, agree to station Palestinians at crossing points, reach no agmt. on elections. Rabin says IDF will hit Hamas in autonomous areas if Arafat does not, borders will reopen soon. Asked if reopening ends Rabin's "national separation" plan (see 10/19), spokesman Uri Dromi says "separation is easier said than done, and you can't do it overnight." (WT 10/30; NYT, WP, WT 10/31; VOP 10/31 in FBIS 11/1)

3,000 Palestinians rally to protest Israel-Jordan agmt. in Gaza. King Hussein reiterates that he is not competing for territorial control over West Bank, Gaza; says he will give control of religious site in East Jerusalem to Arafat when PNA is "ready to take up such responsibilities." (WT 10/31)

Israeli-Jordanian peace treaty is signed on Israel-Jordan border by PM Rabin, King Hussein. Agmt. removes trade sanctions, opens border btwn. the countries, gives Jordan special rights to holy cities in Jerusalem. Clinton attends, but neither Egypt's Pres. Mubarak, Arafat are invited. PLO factions, Hamas order general strike in Israeli o.t., autonomous areas to protest signing. (MM 10/26; VOP 10/26 in FBIS 10/26; CSM, NYT, WP, WT 10/27; JP 11/5)

Pres. Clinton addresses joint session of Jordanian parliament; outlines Middle East economic plan; says U.S. will help establish a Middle East Development Bank, provide $75 m. for new private investment in Jordan. (MM 10/27)

Multilaterals on environment end. Mbrs. agree on "Codes of good conduct and cooperation," need to prevent industrial pollution and toxic dumping, creation of regional environmental protection center in Manama. Gulf states refuse to work with Israel on Aqaba cleanup project. (AFP 10/26 in FBIS 10/27)

Hizballah shells Israeli positions in southern Lebanon. IDF, SLA respond, shelling Hizballah camps. No damage reported. (QY 10/26 in FBIS 10/26; NYT, WP, WT 10/27; JP 11/5)

23 killed, 48 wounded when Hamas suicide bomber blows up bus in Tel Aviv. PM Rabin seals Gaza, West Bank indefinitely; vows hit suspects, their families; promises legislation permitting greater pressure in interrogations, wider use of collective punishment; suggests "national separation" of Palestinians, Israelis. (QY 10/18, 10/19 in FBIS 10/19; MM 10/19; QY 10/19 in FBIS 10/20; CSM, MM, NYT, WP, WT 10/20; MM 10/21; NYT 10/24; JP 10/29)

FM Peres says all negotiating tracks will continue despite bus attack, says Hamas's goal is to derail talks and there is "no way on earth" that will happen. (NYT 10/20)

Round of Israeli-Palestinian talks on elections concludes in Cairo, working papers exchanged, no decisions reported. (MENA 10/19 in FBIS 10/20)

U.S. officials report intense debate over whether Clinton should visit Syria on trip to Middle East 10/26. Clinton wants to see Pres. al-Asad to jump start peace talks, advisors say al-Asad has not offered enough concessions to warrant presidential visit. (WT 10/20)

IDF, SLA kill 7 Lebanese in shelling of Nabatiyeh hours after bus bombing. UN protests Israeli escalation of tensions, IDF use of tank shells packed with steel darts. (NYT 10/21; NYT, WP, WT 10/22; NYT 10/23)

Israeli PM Rabin, Jordan's King Hussein initial draft of peace treaty in Amman, say annexes to final agmt. are pending. Treaty calls for return of territory to Jordan, Israeli lease of Jordanian land held by Israeli settlements, diversion of water to Jordan, special role for Jordan in Jerusalem. Jordanian Islamists vow to block ratification in parliament. (QY 10/16 in FBIS 10/17; MM 10/17; CSM, NYT, WP, WT 10/18; HA 10/18 in FBIS 10/18; NYT 10/19; WJW 10/20; MEI 10/21)

U.S. Pres. Clinton says he will attend signing of Jordan-Israel agmt. 10/26. (NYT, WP 10/18)

Israel admits to secret 2-yr. deal with U.S., Syria to bring Syrian Jews to Israel. At Washington's request, Pres. al-Asad allowed 3,670 Jews to emigrate to U.S., 1,262 of whom then flew on to Israel. (WT 10/19; WJW, WP 10/20; JP 10/29)

1000's of Hamas supporters hold 3d day of anti-Arafat protests outside Gaza jail. Palestinian police release 60 detainees, disperse crowd, promise all 210 detained will be released within days. (WP, WT 10/18)

PM Rabin asks Arafat to tell Hamas Israel is willing release movement's spiritual leader, Shaykh Yasin, in exchange for kidnapped IDF soldier. Hamas gives no definitive response. (QY 10/14 in FBIS 10/17; JP, WT 10/15)

U.S. Secy. of State Christopher arrives in Damascus fr. Kuwait for 2 days of talks with Pres. al-Asad. (SARR 10/13 in FBIS 10/14)

Senior Hamas official, Ibrahim al-Yazuri, says kidnappers of IDF soldier are acting without approval from leadership, Izzeddin al-Qassam brigades "belong to Hamas but operate alone. No one gives them instructions . . . ." (HA 10/13 in FBIS 10/14)

Hamas delegation meets with Lebanese Chamber of Deps. Speaker Nabih Birri to discuss Palestinian-Israeli peace process, Palestinian refugees in Lebanon. (RL 10/13 in FBIS 10/14)

Arafat recalls PSF head Col. Rajub fr. Egypt to help deal with Hamas, kidnapping. (QY 10/13 in FBIS 10/14)

Israel suspends all negotiations with PLO after Hamas announces it is holding an IDF soldier hostage. Hamas says it will kill the soldier 10/14 if 200 Palestinian prisoners--inc. Shaykh Ahmad Yasin, Shaykh Salah Shehadeh, Shaykh `Abd al-Karim Obeid, Mustafa al-Dirani--are not released. PM Rabin calls emergency cabinet mtg., suspends transfer of aid fr. donor countries, seals Gaza, says he holds Arafat responsible. Arafat condemns abduction, calls mtg. of PSF. (MM, NYT, WP, WT 10/12; AFP, ITV, JP, Al-Quds radio 10/11, MENA, VOP , QY 10/12 in FBIS 10/12; CSM 10/13; HA 10/14 in FBIS 10/14)

Jordanian, Palestinian officials conclude talks in Amman, announce broad agmts. on trade, customs, banking, civil aviation; agree to draw up position papers on Awqaf, refugees. (JT 10/12 in FBIS 10/12; JTV 10/12 in FBIS 10/13)

U.S. FM Christopher meets with Syrian Pres. al-Asad, says both Syria, Israel have made significant movements towards peace, says he has been pleased al-Asad has taken U.S. advice and made public gestures showing he is serious. (SARR 10/11 in FBIS 10/11; WP 10/12)

FM Christopher leaves Syria for Amman, meets with King Hussein, Crown Prince Hassan to discuss U.S.-Jordanian relations, peace talks, Iraqi maneuvers. (JTV 10/11 in FBIS 10/12, MM 10/12)

PM Rabin confirms that rifles used in Hamas attack 10/10 were AK47's belonging to the Palestinian police. (NYT 10/12)

The Nobel committee decides to award the Nobel Peace Prize to PLO chmn. Arafat, Israeli PM Rabin. (MM 10/11; NYT, WT 10/12; CSM, WJW 10/13; MM 10/14)

U.S. Commerce Sec. Ron Brown holds mtg. with mbrs. of Overseas Private Investment Corp. (OPIC) delegation of Palestinian businessmen on 5-day visit to seek American funding for projects in West Bank, Gaza. (WT 10/12; JP 10/15)

Iraqi retreat is detected by U.S. intelligence. Pres. Clinton says it is too early to reach conclusions on Saddam Hussein's action, U.S. will continue reinforcement of the Gulf, may press for enlarging demilitarized zone along Kuwaiti border. (NYT, WP, WT 10/12)

IDF, SLA continue shelling southern Lebanon, "deport" 26 Kufr Hunah villagers fr. self-declared security zone. Lebanese FM Buwayz asks UN to act. (RL 10/11 in FBIS 10/12; MM 10/12)

Israeli PM Rabin informs Lt. Gen. Amnon Lipkin-Shahak he will succeed Lt. Gen. Barak as IDF chief of staff effective 1/1/95. (MM 10/5; JP 10/7 in FBIS 10/13; JP 10/15)

Arafat orders arrest of Gen. Mahmud Abu-Marzuq, civil defense cmdr. of Gaza, on suspicion of accepting bribes. Abu Marzuq is detained at Gaza central jail for questioning. (QY 10/6 in FBIS 10/7)

Palestinian opposition groups suspend contacts with PNA on setting up municipal and rural councils in Gaza, say they are protesting arrest of DFLP mbrs. 10/2. DFLP vows to continue armed struggle. (Al-Quds radio, QY, RMC 10/6 in FBIS 10/7)

Israeli PM Rabin meets Jordan's King Hussein in Aqaba to discuss border issues. Hussein demands return of land transferred to Israel when border was moved in 1968. Rabin agrees in principle, but requires increased Jordan-Israel cooperation in return. Hussein disagrees saying return should follow fr. end of hostilities. (MM 9/29; RJ 9/30 in FBIS 9/30; ITV 9/30, AFP, IDF Radio 10/2 in FBIS 10/3)

Israeli FM Peres addresses UNGA, says Israel is fully committed to implementing the DOP in spirit and letter. (MM 9/30; Jerusalem Govt. Press Office 10/3 in FBIS 10/3)

Labor MK Kahalani submits controversial bill on special majority for Golan referendum to Knesset. PM Rabin threatens to pull out of talks with Syria if bill is passed. Golani settlers end hunger strike. (MM 9/29; QY 9/29 in FBIS 9/30; JP 10/8)

Israeli-Palestinian border crossing comm. meets at Rafah checkpoint to finalize draft agmt. for PNA administration of Allenby Bridge, Rafah crossings. (ITV 9/29 in FBIS 9/30)

Mike Guzofsky, head of Kahane Chai, New York, says he is sending delegation to Jordan to buy land for East Bank settlement, adds "If such a tiny thing, like Jews wanting to buy a little land and settle there, causes an uproar, then it's proof this isn't . . . peace." Jordan calls move irresponsible, provocative. (WJW 9/29) (see 9/16)

Guatemala announces it will move its embassy to Jerusalem. (WJW 9/29) (see 8/15)

Arab League "strongly denounces" Israeli PM Rabin's decision to build new housing in West Bank settlement, calling it a "flagrant violation" of the DOP. (MENA, RE 9/27 in FBIS 9/28)

Israeli FM Peres meets with Argentinean Pres. Carlos Menem in New York, asks him to help arrange mtg. btwn. PM Rabin, Syrian Pres. al-Asad. (QY 9/27 in FBIS 9/29)

Jordan renounces religious links to West Bank, reaffirms spiritual authority in Jerusalem in move to avoid conflict with PLO. PNA says it will assume administrative, financial duties for West Bank religious institutions next mo. (JTV 9/27 in FBIS 9/28; NYT 9/28; MM 9/28; QY 9/28 in FBIS 9/28; AFP 9/28 in FBIS 9/29; MEI 10/7; JP 10/8)

Hamas calls on its mbrs. to avoid clashes with Palestinian police. (VOP 9/27 in FBIS 9/28; WT 9/28) (see 9/24)

Israeli PM Rabin approves plan to expand Givat Tal settlement in West Bank by 994 units to relieve housing shortage in Tel Aviv, tighten Israel's hold on area of West Bank at point where Israel is only 7 mi. wide before talks on permanent peace begin in 1996. PLO releases strong condemnation. (MM 9/26; HA 9/26 in FBIS 9/27; WP, WT 9/27)

PNA Planning M Shaath returns fr. official visit to Australia; says prospects are strong for increased Australian assistance, investment, participation in multilateral force. (MENA 9/25 in FBIS 9/26)

Baruch Marzel, head of Kach who was arrested after Hebron massacre, is released fr. jail to 3-mo. house arrest, meets with Kach activists. Marzel's men waiting outside Hebron jail threaten Palestinian family at gun point, stone Palestinian's car. (QY 9/26 in FBIS 9/30; MM, WT 9/28)

DFLP's Hawatmeh says dialogues are underway btwn. DFLP, Gulf states, he will visit Gulf shortly. (Al-Ra'y 9/26 in FBIS 9/26)

Israeli PM Rabin, PLO Chmn. Arafat hold unusually friendly mtg. to discuss elections, redeployment of IDF. Both agree to start negotiations on elections 10/3. Arafat tells Rabin he is trying to convene PNC to amend charter. (QY, VOP 9/25 in FBIS 9/26; MM, NYT, WP, WT 9/26; Davar 9/26 in FBIS 9/27; WJW 9/29; MEI 10/7)

Arab League Asst. Sec. Gen. `Adnan 'Imran says the league rejects Israel's demand to withdraw UN resolutions on the Palestinian question, calls U.S. decision to issue Amb. Albright's memorandum "regrettable." (RE 9/25 in FBIS 9/26) (see 9/20)

Fatah's Supreme Comm. announces formation of preparatory comm. for elections, calls on all political forces to participate in elections, denounces Israel's procrastination on elections process. (VOP 9/25 in FBIS 9/26)

1 settler stabbed, wounded in Gaza by Palestinian carrying leaflet fr. Hamas. Hamas denies responsibility. (WT 9/26)

U.S. envoy Dennis Ross arrives in Jerusalem, talks with PM Peres and FM Rabin, says "real gaps" remain btwn. Israeli, Syrian positions. Later meets with Arafat, discusses aid, elections. (MM 9/21; WT 9/22; VOP 9/22 in FBIS 9/22)

PLO Pol. Dept. head Faruq al-Qaddumi, Jordanian PM al-Majali meet in Jordan, agree to resume PLO-Jordanian contacts at the "ministerial level" before end of the month. (JT 9/24 in FBIS 9/26)

Al-Qaddumi vows to fight new U.S. position in UN, strengthen language of resolutions presented. Egypt, Jordan say they will also oppose U.S. moves. (Reuters 9/21; RJ 9/26 in FBIS 9/26)

Israeli PM Rabin holds consultations on Palestinian elections with FM Peres, MK Shahal, MK Sarid, Chief of Staff Barak, IDF, police officials. Rabin, Barak want negotiations on elections only, talks on extending autonomy later. Peres, others say there is no choice but to discuss all issues simultaneously. (ITV, QY 9/21 in FBIS 9/22)

Jordan's Crown Prince Hasan, Likud head Binyamin Netanyahu meet in London, discuss Jordanian, Likud views on negotiations. Netanyahu suggest Jordan, Israel reach a "strategic consensus" opposing PLO; Hassan gives no reaction. (JTV 9/21 in FBIS 9/22; MM 9/22; JP 10/1)

Arafat meets with Hamas mbrs. inc. spokesmen Mahmud al-Zahhar, Isma'il Haniyah; discusses ways to enhance national unity, safeguard security in autonomous areas; releases 3 Hamas mbrs. detained after shooting 9/17. (VOP 9/22 in FBIS 9/22; AFP 9/22 in FBIS 9/23)

IDF imposes curfew on village of Biddu nr. Ramallah after riot sparked by death 9/18 of Palestinian by IDF at roadblock. (QY 9/21 in FBIS 9/21)

Arafat approves license of pro-Islamist daily newspaper, Al-Istiqlal to be run by `Ala' al-Saftawi, `Adnan `Abu-Hasnah. (VOP 9/21 in FBIS 9/22)

Israeli border police arrests 7 Palestinian policemen for being in Jerusalem area without permits. (ITV 9/21 in FBIS 9/22)

U.S. Secy. of State Christopher cancels plans to visit Middle East this wk. due to Haiti invasion, should arrive after 9/20. (MM 9/12)

U.S. VP Gore announces U.S. will loan Palestinian private sector $87 m. for 9 projects planned to create 1,800 temporary and permanent jobs in Gaza, West Bank. (MM 9/13; JP 9/24)

At Labor Party caucus, PM Rabin says if Knesset passes law requiring special majority for withdrawal fr. Golan, it will torpedo talks with Syria, divert money fr. welfare to defense; calls proposal "racist move, aimed at minimizing . . . the Arab vote." Most Labor hawks defer to Rabin. Likud Party chmn. Moshe Qatzav says Likud will not honor withdrawal agmt. if national referendum is not held. (ITV 9/11 in FBIS 9/13; MM 9/12; QY 9/12 in FBIS 9/13; JP 9/17; MM 9/21; JP 9/24) (see 9/7)

Israeli-Palestinian Security Comm. meets to discuss release of Palestinian detainees, safe passage, joint patrols. No agmts. reached. (QY, VOP 9/12 in FBIS 9/13)

Israeli Finance M Avraham Shohat meets Arafat in Gaza, gives PNA $5 m. in VAT taxes on goods imported to the self-rule areas via Israeli ports, says Israel will speed up transfer of tax funds as goodwill gesture. (IDF Radio, QY, VOP 9/12 in FBIS 9/13; MM 9/13; JP 9/24)

Jordanian-Israeli talks on borders, water, security, energy, environment, tourism, economy continue in Tiberias. Jordan-Israel-U.S. trilateral comm. continues talks on development of Jordan Rift. (RJ 9/11 in FBIS 9/12; MM 9/12)

Israel PM Rabin, Pres. Clinton hold joint teleconference with American Jews at 70 sites around U.S.; discuss peace process, threat from Hamas, Islamic Jihad, Iran. (MM, WP, WT 9/13; QY 9/13 in FBIS 9/13)

2d IDF officer arrested in connection with illegal extremist right-wing organization. Lt. Qobi Pino, settler fr. Qiryat Arba, is 10th arrested for anti-Arab activity. (IDF Radio 9/12 in FBIS 9/14)

Israeli PM Rabin says Israel will pull out of southern Lebanon in 9 mos. if, within 6 mos., Lebanese Army takes up positions on northern border of security zone, Hizballah is dismantled, SLA is integrated into Lebanese Army. (Al-Hayat 8/23 in MM 9/2; Beirut Times 8/25)

Jordan, Israel open talks on demarcation of northern border. (MM 8/23; JTV 8/23 in FBIS 8/24)

DFLP, PFLP-GC say they will not attend PNC mtg. if held in Gaza, call for escalation of armed struggle against Israel. Fida says amending charter, PNC meeting in Gaza are premature. (QY 8/23 in FBIS 8/23; Al-Quds 8/23 in FBIS 8/24; Al-Quds 8/24 in FBIS 8/25)

Cmdr. of Palestinian police in Gaza, Gen. Nasr Yusuf, says police can stop Hamas activists at any time, but PLO leadership has not given order. Says 4 Hamas mbrs. still held by Palestinian police. (QY 8/23 in FBIS 8/23; FT 8/26)

Palestinian AG Khalid al-Qudra says 4 police officers accused of beating Palestinian prisoner to death 5/94 will be tried in civil court next mo. (WT 8/24)

PM Rabin postpones "safe passage" btwn. Gaza, Jericho citing lack of PNA action toward recent Hamas attacks. (MEI 8/26)

Jordanian-Palestinian talks end in Amman. Joint comm. is formed to meet monthly, discuss economic, political, administrative issues. Plans for Palestinian currency suspended, Jordanian dinar to be primary currency of PNA areas for 3-yr. period. (JTV 8/22, MM 8/23; VOP 8/23 in FBIS 8/23; RJ 8/23 in FBIS 8/24; Al-Dustur 9/3 in FBIS 9/7)

171 Palestinian figures, inc. 82 mbrs of PNC, PLO Central Council, PLO Executive Comm. issue statement criticizing Arafat; reject calls for PNC mtg. in Gaza, amendment of charter; denounce DOP. (MM 8/23; Al-Dustur 8/23 in FBIS 8/24; CSM 8/25; MEI 8/26)

Curfew on Rafah is lifted. (QY in FBIS 8/22)

IDF detains 15 Hamas, Islamic Jihad mbrs. in Janin. (QY 8/22 in FBIS 8/23)

Palestinian prisoners released 8/19 hold press conference to protest Israel's demand they remain in Gaza, Jericho for remainder of their sentences, criticize Arafat. (ITV 8/22 in FBIS 8/23)

Israeli PM Rabin promises NIS 16 m. to build new road in West Bank so settlers can bypass Jericho. (QY 8/22 in FBIS 8/23)

Israel shells villages in Iqlim al-Tuffah, Jabal Abu Rashid southern Lebanon in response to 8/18 Hizballah attack. (WT 8/24)

New Palestinian group calling itself Palestinian National Liberation Movement-Fateh Soldiers of Right (jund al-haq) issues leaflet in o.t. saying it will "remove injustice, fight corrution, and restore Fateh's past status." (Al-Ra'y 8/22 in FBIS 8/23)

Israeli FM Shimon Peres says Israeli-Palestinian Liaison Comm. agreed to international temporary force for deployment in West Bank. Troops to be fr. Australia, Turkey, Norway, Finland, 2 European countries. Palestinians to man Gaza, Jericho crossing pts. Israel to issue 35,000 new work permits to Gaza Palestinians. (MENA 8/17 in FBIS 8/18; JP 8/27)

Israel freezes plans for IDF withdrawal fr. o.t., ties extension of self-rule to a halt in Hamas attacks on Israelis. PM Yitzhak Rabin calls current steps by PNA to curb Hamas a publicity stunt. 5 of 40 Hamas mbrs. arrested by Palestinian police 8/15 still held. (QY 8/17 in FBIS 8/18; NYT 8/18)

Jordan's Tourism M Muhammad Al-Idwan arrives in Israel for joint talks, 1st high-level Jordanian official to publicly visit Israel. (Near East Report 8/22)

IDF Chief of Staff Gen. Ehud Barak meets Defense Secy. William Perry, JCS Chmn. Gen. John Shalikashvili, National Security Advisor Anthony Lake in Washington; stresses Israel should hold onto all of Golan for security purposes. (ITV 8/17 in FBIS 8/18; WT 8/19)

PNA M of Trade and Econ. Ahmad Qurai` protests to Jordan that its trade agmt. with Israel (see 8/16) violates existing agmts. btwn. Israel, PLO. (ITV 8/17 in FBIS 8/18)

Hamas, Islamic Jihad, DFLP, PFLP issue leaflet saying Arafat's recent crackdown on Hamas is pushing Palestinians to "the edge of civil war." (AFP 8/17 in FBIS 8/18; MM 8/22)

IDF kills Palestinian trying to enter Israel fr. Gaza nr. Rafah. (QY 8/17 in FBIS 8/18; UNRWA News 8/24))

Israeli PM Rabin visits Gaza, says self-rule will not be expanded until the PNA makes "a serious effort" to curb attacks on Israelis. He also postpones scheduled introduction of free passage between Gaza and Jericho.  PNA denounces 8/14 Hamas attack, detains 35 Hamas mbrs. for questioning.  200 Hamas supporters protest the crackdown in front of the police headquarters in Dayr al-Balah.  (NYT, WP, WT 8/16)

Bolivia, Dominican Republic, and Paraguay announce they will move their diplomatic offices to Jerusalem to keep Israel from closing its embassies in their countries.  Israeli F Min. states "We won't close embassies in countries that move their embassies to the Jerusalem area."  (WT 8/16)

International terrorist "Carlos" (Ilich Ramirez Sanchez) flown to France after arrest in Sudan previous night.  France sought his extradition for 1975 Paris killing of 2 French agents investigating failed rocket attack on an El Al plane.  Sanchez most widely known for 1975 Vienna kidnapping of OPEC oil ministers in which 3 killed, 11 wounded. Israel announces it will not attempt to extradite him.  (NYT, WP, WT 8/16)

Israeli and PLO negotiators say they are nearing an agreement on the expansion of Palestinian authority in the West Bank.  (WSJ 8/15)

PLO Chmn. Arafat and Israeli PM Rabin hold 90-minute summit  mtg. at Erez crossing, Gaza Strip.  Israel agrees to open safe passages btwn. Gaza and Jericho, permit 6,000 more Palestinian workers into Israel.  Both sides agree to pursue negotiations on expanding West Bank self-rule.  Israel puts off discussion of Jerusalem, criticizes PLO Political Dept. head Faruq Qaddumi's remarks on attacks on Israelis.  (Qol Yisra'el 8/10 in FBIS 8/11; MM, NYT, WP, WT 8/11)

World Bank announces establishment of field office in Gaza.  (World Bank release 8/10)

Jordan's Crown Prince Hassan meets 98-mbr. United Jewish Appeal delegation in Amman, says Jordan and Israel should coordinate economic policies before 10/94 Casablanca economic conference.  (MM 8/11)

Argentine Pres. Carlos Menem threatens to expel Iranian amb. over Tehran's alleged role in 7/18 bombing of Buenos Aires Jewish center.  Embassy had protested issuing of warrants for arrest of 4 Iranian diplomats in case.  (NYT, WT 8/11)

Senate approves foreign-aid bill 88-12, sending $13.8 b. measure to Pres. Clinton for signature.  Legislation, passed by House 8/4, includes $99 m. "down payment" on Jordanian debt relief, $3 b. in economic and military aid to Israel.  (WP 8/11)

Jericho Mayor Jamil Khalaf resigns, saying PNA had deprived him of authority.  Khalaf, appointed by occupation, reportedly was under investigation for corruption and was unhappy with local police cmndr.'s authority.  (WP 8/10)

Hamas spokesman Mahmud Zahhar affirms Hamas "would not reject Jordan's rule of Jerusalem, so long as it remains in Arab hands."  (Al-Hayat 8/9 in FBIS 8/11)

Jordanian and Israeli negotiators mtg. in Sodom, Israel, agree to send survey teams to demarcate border based on 1928 League of Nations map showing Palestine-Transjordan border.  (WT 8/10)

PM Rabin schedules talks for next day with PLO Chmn. Arafat, 1st since Arafat took up residence in Gaza.  (WT 8/10)

"Senior admin. source" with Secy of State Christopher says Syria still seeks peace agreement with Israel this year.  (NYT 8/10)

Argentine judge orders arrest of 4 Iranian diplomats in 7/18 bombing of Jewish center in Buenos Aires.  (CSM, WP, WT 8/10)