The Palestine Chronology

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: JEC workers, vowing to protect the company from government take-over, strike for 2 hours [FJ 4/3]. Spokesman for Jerusalem municipality denies Arab bakeries have been ordered not to bake or sell bread during Passover; says bakeries have been asked not to display bread outside their shops [FJ 4/3].

Arab World: Statement signed by "rank-and-file" members of PFLP denounces reconciliation with PLO Chairman Arafat, demands PFLP boycott PNC session scheduled for 4/20; George Habash, leader of PFLP, is in Algiers for consultations with Arafat aides in preparation for the upcoming session [NYT 4/4].

Other Countries: Reports indicate U.S. investigators believe Harold Katz, an attorney who holds U. S. and Israeli citizenship, was involved in the Pollard spy affair, but the investigation of his role is being seriously hampered by Israeli government's decision to bar Katz from leaving Israel [WP 4/2]. Katz denies he participated in the espionage ring, says his Washington, D.C. apartment may have been used without his knowledge [WP, NYT 4/3]. Soviet spokesman denies reports U.S.S.R. and Israel have agreed to exchange official delegations, confirms Soviet "consular workers" will go to Tel Aviv [WP 4/3].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli army bulldozes home of suspect accused of killing Israeli reservist one month earlier in Hebron's old market [JP, JTA 9/27]. Israeli court awards Ariel Sharon $2,000 for court costs in Israel in suit against Time magazine, rules Time defamed former defense minister [CSM 9/27]. Israel asks Cyprus to extradite 3 arrested in Lamaca for murder of 3 Israelis to Israel for trial [NYT 9/27]. Min. of Econ. and Planning Gad Ya'acobi reports an association of S. American businessmen interested ininvesting in Israel, particularly govt. -owned companies, is being formed UP 9/27]. High Court reduces jail sentence of Jewish underground defendant Gilad Peli from 10 to 4.5 years after he expressed remorse for his deeds and cooperated during the investigation [JP 9/27].

Military Action: Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli bus near Halhul is fired upon, injuring 7; curfew is imposed. Anonymous phone caller to Agence France Presse office in Jerusalem claims credit on behalf of Fateh's Force 17. Hundreds of Kiryat Arba settlers rampage through Halhul around midnight, smashing windows and cars, and attacking a mosque [JP 9/27, 29]. A roadside bomb is detonated by remote control on the Jerusalem-Ma'aleh Adumim highway asa car is passing; no injuries [JP 9/29]. Firebomb is thrown at another Egged bus as it passes Mt. Zion; no injuries [JTA 9/27]. Bomb explodes behind bus stop on Mt. Scopus, injuring 2;6 suspects arrested [JP 9/27].

Arab World: Israeli air force raids alleged Abu Musa base in Majdalun, Biqa' Valley, slightly injuring 1 [LT 9/28]. 

Social/Economic/Political:

Occupied Palestine/Israel: After lawyer's insistance, Israeli police begin investigation into charges of torture of political prisoner Saleh Zbeidat arrested 4/13/84. Shin Bet chief briefs Israeli cabinet on Jewish terrorist underground; Jewish terror suspect signs confession to role in 1980 car bomb maiming of West Bank mayors; 2 IDF majors arrested in connection with "TNT" activities; Supreme Court rebukes police for leaking information to media about recent arrests of suspected "TNT" terrorists. Central Bureau of Statistics issues findings that 83% of Israel's 3.452 million population are Jews. 5 IDF reserve officers demand inquiry into MK Sharon's role in 2 battles in S. Lebanon (1982), waged without cabinet approval.

Other Countries: New York-based firm Research & Forecasts, Inc. reports findings that top US executives view Israel as role model for US business. Israel embassies to US and UN celebrate 36th anniversary of Israeli claim to statehood; Egyptian ambassadors join reception guests.

Military Action:

Arab World: Lebanese radio reports Israeli gunships approach N. Lebanese coast, drawing Syrian gunfire.