The Israeli press leaks news that Peres, PC speaker Ahmad Qurai` have drafted a "letter of understanding" under which Israel would recognize a Palestinian state within 2 mos. as part of an interim agmt. following full implementation of the Tenet and Mitchell plans. Arafat, Sharon say the draft is unworkable as is; they expect Peres, Qurai` to continue their mtgs. (HA, YA 12/23; HA, WP 12/24; AYM, JT, MENA, QA 12/24 in WNC 12/26; NYT 12/25; AYM, MA 12/26 in WNC 12/27; HA, WJW 12/27; MENA 12/27 in WNC 12/28; JT [Internet] 12/28; AYM 12/28 in WNC 12/31; AYM 12/29 in WNC 1/2; MM 2/13) (see Quarterly Update)
The IDF fire tear gas, rubber bullets to disperse a peaceful demonstration of 1,000s Palestinians, 100s of international NGO reps. in Ramallah, wounding 6 Palestinians. The IDF also fires 10s of percussion grenades at residential areas of Khan Yunis. (PMC 12/23; PCHR 12/26)