Tuesday, March 15, 1988

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israel bans travel by Palestinian residents between W. Bank and Gaza Strip and bars fuel shipments to Arab-owned stations for 3d day. Palestinians begin 2-day general strike, shutting down almost all of W. Bank, most of Gaza Strip. Israel cuts W. Bank's and Gaza Strip's international phone connections. IDF closes produce markets in Jenin and Jericho. Reports indicate Israel has cut electricity and telephone lines in Qabatiyyah and forbidden residents to travel to Jordan. IDF announces sentencing of 2 soldiers involved in beating of Palestinians that was filmed by U.S. network; 1 is sentenced to 21 days imprisonment, the other to 10 days. Army also announces that U. S. photographer has been charged with participating in rock-throwing demonstration [WP 3/16].

Other Countries: Sec. of State Shultz and P.M. Shamir fail to reach agreement on Middle East peace plan during meetings in Washington [NYT 3/16].

Military Action Occupied Palestine/Israel: Plestinian is shot dead during clash with soldiers in Ramallah-area village of Dayr Jarir [WP, NYT 3/16]. Another Palestinian is reported killed by army gunfire in Anza village, near Jenin [FJ 3/20]. At least 4 Palestinians are wounded by troops trying to disperse demonstrations in Qalqiliyyah [WP 3/16]. In Jaba village near Nablus, Palestinian is shot dead by soldiers [NYT 3/16]. Soldiers shoot, wound 5 villagers in 'Azzun. Daylong demonstrations are reported in Nablus and surrounding villages and camps. In Qalqiliyyah, Palestinian protesters block roads, bum tires, and stone military vehicles; soldiers close off city, impose curfew. At least 9 are wounded by army gunfire [FJ 3/20].