U.S. Defense Dep't. says threat of Iraqi attack on Israel is "very realistic" and that American intelligence analysts believe Iraq would use chemical weapons against coalition forces in event of...
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December 26, 1990
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December 15, 1990
Iraq's Information Minister says Baghdad still wants "deep dialogue" with U.S. despite differences over dates for direct talks; also says F.M. Aziz will not travel to Washington on 12/17 [INA 12/...
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December 13, 1990
Federal District Court judges rule against 54 Democratic members of Congress who had sought an order forbidding Pres. Bush from going to war without first seeking con- gressional approval, but...
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December 10, 1990
U.S. and Iraqi admins. air differences over when Bush-Aziz and Baker-Saddam meetings should take place; Iraq suggests Baker come to Baghdad on 1/12, but U.S. says it is too close to UN deadline of...
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November 17, 1990
Citing American, British, and Israeli intelligence experts, New York Times reports Iraq has acquired nuclear weapons capacity that could enable it to begin manufacturing and using nuclear...
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November 16, 1990
In Brussels for international economic meetings, Sec. of State Baker rejects Soviet envoy Yevgeny Primakov's suggestion that solution to Gulf crisis be linked to Palestine question [LAT 11/17]....
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November 3, 1990
Sec. of State Baker leaves for Gulf and Europe to lay groundwork for new UN Sec. Council resolution authorizing use of force against Iraq and to ask allies under what conditions would they support...
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October 30, 1990
1 Palestinian is killed, 2 others injured, while constructing bomb near Tel Aviv, and 2 Palestinians are shot dead in W. Bank, as Israeli gov't puts into effect new regulations that permanently...
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September 21, 1990
White House scales back proposed sale of military hardware to Saudi Arabia; instead of submitting to Congress a single $22 billion package, Bush admin. will seek immediate approval of smaller deal...
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September 20, 1990
Palestinians burn Israel army officer to death in his car in Gaza Strip. Crowd stones the car after it makes wrong turn and drives into Bureij refugee camp; car is set afire after soldier hits...
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September 12, 1990
2 U.S. Apache attack helicopters sold to Israel for $350 million each are met at air base by P.M. Shamir, who says U.S. is "obliged" to maintain Israel's military advantage over its Arab neighbors...
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September 10, 1990
After 2 days of talks in Iran, Iraqi delegation under F.M. Aziz (1st high-level visit since 1979 revolution) announces it will restore full diplomatic ties [NYT, LAT 9/11].
Sec. Baker calls...
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September 6, 1990
Pres. Bush accepts offer from Baghdad to speak on Iraqi television, says 10-15 minute speech would provide "real opportunity" to explain why he has sent U.S. troops to Saudi Arabia [LAT, WP 9/7...
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August 27, 1990
Pres. Mubarak meets with U.S. Senate delegation headed by Robert Dole (R-KS) and including Nunn (D-GA), Warner (R-VA), Garn (R-UT), D'Amato (R-NY), Nickles (R- OK), Symms (R-ID), and Mack (R-FL)...
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August 19, 1990
Pres. Mubarak and Saudi F.M. Prince Saud al-Faisal hold talks in Cairo on Gulf crisis [MET 8/28].
French gov't, alarmed by reports that its citizens are being detained in Baghdad, orders...
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August 15, 1990
Italian F.M. De Michelis, meeting with Israeli F.M. Levy, says PLO made a "mistake" by supporting Iraq and warned that if Arafat doesn't change position "we will have to revise our attitude...
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July 12, 1990
Ethiopia has reportedly stopped issuing exit visas for Jews in attempt to compel Israel to send Ethiopian gov't. more weapons. Israeli advisors, weapons, and surveillance equipment are being used...
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June 27, 1990
In first interview with U.S. newspaper in nearly 6 years, Iraq's Saddam Hussein says another Mideast war is "inevitable" unless U.S. deters aggressive Israeli policies against Palestinians; that...
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June 23, 1990
Abul Abbas, leader of PLF group responsible for 5/30 attempted seaborne raid on Israel, says that he is prepared to accept disciplinary action from PLO Exec. Committee, adds that Arafat may "take...
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June 12, 1990
Testifying before Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Sec. of State James Baker says U.S. will not rush to break off contacts with PLO, despite fact that PLO's response to 5/30 attempted attack...
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May 23, 1990
Sec. of State James Baker says U.S. "would be prepared to discuss the question of a United Nations observer team" going to O.T. when UN Sec. Council meets in Geneva on 5/25 [NYT, WP, WT, LAT 5/24...
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May 20, 1990
Former IDF soldier, in uniform, shoots dead 7 Arabs, wounds 11 others near Rishon le Zion after taking away their ID cards as they were on their way to work; Shamir condemns attack [IDF, JDS 5/20...
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April 18, 1990
In Amman, Arafat and King Hussein revive Jordanian-Palestinian joint committees, 1 for politics, 1 for information [QUD 4/20 in FBIS 4/24].
Interim P.M. Shamir is hurriedly seeking to...
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April 17, 1990
Jerusalem District Court overturns lower court ruling, allows eviction of Jewish nationalists from Hospice of St. John (cf. 4/10) [WP, LAT, WT 4/18; NYT 4/ 19; JDS 4/17 in FBIS 4/18].
In...
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March 21, 1990
Asked 3/20 to form gov't. Labor leader Peres asks interim P.M. Shamir if Likud would be interested in joining Labor-led gov't.; Shamir's reply is unequivocal "no" [NYT 3/22].
Palestinian...
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March 1, 1990
Brig. Gen. Shmu'el Zucker assumes duty as commander of IDF forces in Gaza; replaces Brig. Gen. Tzvi Poleg [IDF 2/28 in FBIS 3/1].
Sec. Baker indicates Bush admin. would back $400 million...
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February 28, 1990
Polish officials will comply with F.M. Arens's request for Poland to serve as transit point for emigrating Soviet Jews [MAA 2/28 in FBIS 3/1].
February poll conducted by Modi'in Ezrahi...
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February 27, 1990
Poland becomes 3d Warsaw Pact nation to renew full diplomatic ties with Israel, ending 23-year break [NYT 2/28].
D.M. Rabin says Israel is asking U.S. for compensation for U.S. supplying...
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February 26, 1990
Israeli F.M. Moshe Arens arrives in Warsaw to renew diplomatic ties with Poland; Polish gov't. newspaper issues detailed apology for past anti-Semitic acts [WP 2/27].
In Jerusalem, Shimon...
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February 16, 1990
UN Human Rights Committee endorses resolution calling for Israel not to settle Soviet Jews in O.T. U.S. abstains (cf. 2/17) [ADS 2/18 in FBIS 2/20].
USSR has informed U.S. it will not allow...
U.S. Defense Dep't. says threat of Iraqi attack on Israel is "very realistic" and that American intelligence analysts believe Iraq would use chemical weapons against coalition forces in event of war [NYT 12/27]; Israel signals it will not launch first strike against Iraq [WP 12/27] and asserts it has no aggressive intentions toward Jordan [JPI 1/5].
Iraqi cargo ship carrying tons of food bound for Iraq is seized by U.S. and Australian soldiers after having to use stun grenades to subdue crew members; Baghdad protests to UN [NYT, LAT, WT, WP 12/27].
U.S. orders dependents of American diplomats out of Jordan and Sudan "well before 15 January" because of fears of anti-U.S. violence (cf. 1/3) [WT, WP 12/27].
Iran's spiritual leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei rules death sentence against author Salman Rushdie still stands, despite Rushdie's 12/24 statement [LAT, WT, CSM 12/27].
3 Jewish militants are freed after serving less than 7 years of their life sentences for killing 3 Arabs and maiming 2 Palestinian mayors in early 1980s car bombings. Jewish Underground members Menachem Livni, Shaul Nir, and Uzi Sharbav are greeted as heroes by Jewish settlers [JDS 12/26 in FBIS 12/26; NYT, LAT, WP, CSM 12/27; FJ 12/31; JPI 1/5].
Gaza youth is shot dead by IDF after reportedly attacking soldier with knife [JDS 12/26 in FBIS 12/26].
Iraq's Information Minister says Baghdad still wants "deep dialogue" with U.S. despite differences over dates for direct talks; also says F.M. Aziz will not travel to Washington on 12/17 [INA 12/15, ATS 12/16 in FBIS 12/17; NYT 12/16; MET 12/25].
In Damascus, Algerian Pres. Benjedid opens talks with Pres. Asad on ways of finding Arab solution to Gulf crisis [DDS 12/15, APS 12/17 in FBIS 12/17; MET 12/25]; Yasir Arafat arrives in Amman for talks on Gulf crisis with King Hussein [ADS 12/15 in FBIS 12/17].
Egypt expresses to Israel its "extreme anxiety" over reports that Temple Mount Faithful will tour Haram al-Sharif on 12/17 [MENA 12/15 in FBIS 12/18].
EC ends summit conference in Rome with 2 resolutions on Middle East, one warning Saddam Hussein that peace in Gulf is his responsibility, the other calling for international peace conference on the Middle East [MEM 12/17].
Still searching for 2 Palestinians suspected in 12/14 stabbings, Israeli police arrest hundreds of Palestinians in o.t. Palestinians claim 800 are detained. Gaza is placed under curfew (cf. 12/16) [JDS 12/15 in FBIS 12/17; NYT, LAT 12/16; MET 12/25].
Israel issues deportation notices to 4 Gaza Strip Palestinians described by IDF as members of Hamas. Notices are given to Fadel Zaabut, Imad al-Alami, Mustapha al-Lidani, and Shaykh Mustafa Knuah (cf. 12/16, 12/18, 12/20, 12/25, 1/7, 1/8) [JDS 12/15 in FBIS 12/17; NYT, WP, CSM 12/17; JPI 12/22].
Federal District Court judges rule against 54 Democratic members of Congress who had sought an order forbidding Pres. Bush from going to war without first seeking con- gressional approval, but also rule Congress could force Bush to seek declaration of war if it chooses [NYT, WP 12/14].
Last U.S.-sponsored evacuation flight out of Iraq and Kuwait arrives in Frankfurt, carrying U.S. ambassador to Kuwait and 31 other Americans [AFP 12/13 in FBIS 12/13; ADS, INA 12/13 in FBIS 12/14; NYT, WP 12/4; LAT 12/15].
American official says U.S. wants to keep some UN sanctions against Iraq in place even if Saddam withdraws from Kuwait; sanctions would continue to ensure Saddam "can't keep up his massive military machine" [NYT 12/14]; U.S. officials accuse Saddam of stalling on setting dates for talks [WP 12/14].
New York Times/CBS News poll finds 45% of respondents believe U.S. should start military actions against Iraq if it does not leave Kuwait by 1/15; 48% say U.S. should wait for sanctions to work; 62% say sending troops to Saudi Arabia was correct thing to do [NYT 12/14].
Concluding 2-day meeting, OPEC ministers in Vienna agree to maintain present production levels and reinstate production ceiling of 22.5 million barrels per day once Gulf crisis is over [IRNA, AFP 12/13 in FBIS 12/13].
French F.M. Roland Dumas says Iraqi pledge to leave Kuwait would not be enough to satisfy UN, but it could move Gulf crisis towards peaceful solution [MEM 12/14].
Tel Aviv military court convicts Col. Yaacov Sadeh of causing death by negligence of Palestinian teenager during clash 17 months ago [MEM 12/14].
Labor party leader Shimon Peres says P.M. Shamir's gov't. has moved into W. Bank and Gaza hundreds of new trailer homes imported to ease housing shortage [JTS 12/13 in FBIS 12/14; MET 12/25].
U.S. and Iraqi admins. air differences over when Bush-Aziz and Baker-Saddam meetings should take place; Iraq suggests Baker come to Baghdad on 1/12, but U.S. says it is too close to UN deadline of 1/15 for Iraqi troops to leave Kuwait [NYT, WP 12/11].
For 2d time, U.S. postpones Sec. Council vote on resolution endorsing Middle East peace conference; hopes to change text so that it can avoid using in Israel's defense veto that could weaken Arab support for U.S.-led coalition in Saudi Arabia [NYT, WP, MEM 12/11; CSM 12/12; JPI 12/22].
Sec. Baker asks F.M. Shevardnadze to commit token Soviet troop contingent to multinational force in Gulf; Shevardnadze says USSR cannot do so [WP 12/11].
Kuwaiti officials says Iraq owes them $64 billion for stolen property, unpaid debts, and damage caused by 8/2 invasion [IRNA 12/11 in FBIS 12/12].
Israeli army steps up 3-month-old policy of deploying hidden snipers along highways in the West Bank with authorization to shoot Palestinians seen throwing stones at Israeli cars. Snipers use live ammunition and are permitted to fire without warning if they be- lieve the stone throwers are endangering lives [HAM 12/11 in FBIS 12/11; MEM 12/12; NYT, WT, CSM 12/13; MET 12/25].
Israeli military prosecutors are ordered to demand harsher sentences for those Palestinians convicted of stonethrowing; D.M. Arens sets maximum sentence at 20 years in prison [JDS 12/11 in FBIS 12/11].
Labor MK Yossi Beilin presents initiative of dovish Mashov Circle group, calling for "negotiations between Israel and a Palestinian delegation with a primary purpose of bringing about Israel's evacuation from the Gaza Strip, to create in the Gaza Strip a Palestinian state. . . ." [MEM 12/11].
28 American Jewish community leaders, celebrities, and law professors send letter to Pres. Bush urging him to raise at his 12/11 meeting with P.M. Shamir the human rights cases of Palestinian journalists Radwan Abu Ayyash and Ziad Abu Zayyad, who were placed in administrative detention on 11/13. Letter urges they be either formally charged with a crime or else released. Copy of letter is sent to P.M. Shamir [MEM 12/11].
EC says it will give $6 million to help 8 hospitals in o.t. keep functioning during Gulf crisis [MEM 12/11].
Citing American, British, and Israeli intelligence experts, New York Times reports Iraq has acquired nuclear weapons capacity that could enable it to begin manufacturing and using nuclear weapons within 10 years [NYT 11/18; CSM 11/19].
King Hussein opens Jordanian parliament with bleak assessment of Jordan's prospects in wake of Gulf crisis and attacks "blatant and shameless" hypocrisy of nations involved in military buildup in Saudi Arabia (cf. 11/19) [NYT 11/18].
Through meetings with 3 African F.M.s, Sec. Baker reportedly wins support of Ethiopia, Ivory Coast, and Zaire for UN Sec. Council resolution authorizing use of force against Iraq [NYT, WP 11/18; CSM 11/19].
Quoting Palestinian sources, Tunisian newspaper reports that Libya has recently expelled Abu Nidal [MENA 11/17 in FBIS 11/20].
Curfew imposed on o.t. on 11/15 to prevent demonstrations on 2d anniversary of Palestinian declaration of independence is lifted in West Bank; most of Gaza Strip remains under curfew [JDS 11/17 in FBIS 11/21].
In Brussels for international economic meetings, Sec. of State Baker rejects Soviet envoy Yevgeny Primakov's suggestion that solution to Gulf crisis be linked to Palestine question [LAT 11/17].
Soviet envoy Alexander Belonogov meets in Cairo with Pres. Mubarak to discuss Gulf crisis; Belonogov then leaves for Saudi Arabia [MENA 11/16, CDS 11/17 in FBIS 11/20].
Ultra-Orthodox Agudat Israel party joins P.M. Shamir's ruling coalition; belated agreement increases Likud majority from 62 Knesset seats out of 120, to 66 seats [JDS 11/16 in FBIS 11/16; NYT, LAT 11/17; CSM, MEM 11/19; JPI 11/24; MET 11/27].
Arab and nonaligned nations introduce Sec. Council resolution calling for UN observer force in occupied territories (o.t.) and for conference of 164 signators of Fourth Geneva Convention [LAT 11/17; MEM 11/19].
Iran and Iraq announce agreement on series of steps to end major disputes lingering from 8-year war; Iranian F.M. Velayati says he detects willingness by Iraq to end crisis by withdrawing from Kuwait [NYT 11/17].
700 members of U.S. Council of Jewish Federations pass without dissent resolution backing Bush admin. policy in Gulf, but say they will fight U.S. plans to sell weapons to Saudia Arabia [NYT 11/17].
IDF bars Gaza Strip and West Bank residents from Jerusalem as preventive measure against anticipated protests following prayers on Haram al-Sharif [FJ 11/19].
Israeli Immigration Minister Yitzhak Peretz ignites political row by calling for curbs on Soviet immigration, saying 4 of 10 newcomers are not Jewish [MEM 11/1].
Sec. of State Baker leaves for Gulf and Europe to lay groundwork for new UN Sec. Council resolution authorizing use of force against Iraq and to ask allies under what conditions would they support military action [WP, NYT 11/4].
IDF shoots dead Gaza Palestinian, injures at least 61 others as soldiers use tear gas, rubber bullets, and live ammunition to break up demonstration in Bayt Hanoun that erupted after news that Palestinian activist had died in detention [WP, NYT 11/4; JPD 11/4 in FBIS 11/6; LAT 11/5].
For 2d time in as many weeks, Iraqi officials hint that they might release all hostages in return for guarantee Iraq would not be attacked; guarantee to come from at least 2 of the following states: China, France, USSR, Germany, and Japan [INA 11/3 in FBIS 11/6; WP, NYT 11/4].
Iraqi F.M. Aziz arrives in Amman for meeting with King Hussein [INA 11/3 in FBIS 11/5].
World Bank officials say more than 1.5 million people have been displaced by the Gulf crisis [WP 11/4].
Saudi Oil Minister Hisham al-Nazir says Saudi Arabia's oil production surpassed 8.2 million b/d this past week and is expected to rise to 8.5 million b/d early next year to make up for loss of Iraqi oil [NYT 11/4].
1 Palestinian is killed, 2 others injured, while constructing bomb near Tel Aviv, and 2 Palestinians are shot dead in W. Bank, as Israeli gov't puts into effect new regulations that permanently bar any W. Banker or Gazan with a record of security offenses from entering Israel [JDS 10/30 in FBIS 10/30; MEM 10/30, 10/31; NYT, LAT, WP 10/31].
Congressional leaders urge Pres. Bush to move slowly on any military activity against Iraq, while Saddam orders his generals to put Iraq's forces on "extreme alert" against possibility of U.S. attack [NYT, LAT, WP 10/31].
10 U.S. soldiers are killed in boiler room accident on USS Iwo Jima; 43 American servicemen have died since deployment in Gulf began [NYT, LAT, WP 10/31].
Arab nations are discussing PLO proposal to end efforts made since 1982 to expel Israel from the UN at this year's Gen. Assembly; instead they are reportedly considering alternative measure that would reaffirm Israel's obligation to obey UN resolutions [NYT 10/31].
Amal and Hizballah troops agree to cease-fire and say they will allow Lebanese Army regulars to deploy in S. Lebanon, where most of Shiite fighting has occurred. PLO rep. says Fateh force in Lebanon will not leave until dialogue of Lebanese-Palestinian relations is started [BVL 10/30, BDS 10/31 in FBIS 10/31; NYT 11/1].
White House scales back proposed sale of military hardware to Saudi Arabia; instead of submitting to Congress a single $22 billion package, Bush admin. will seek immediate approval of smaller deal including only those weapons immediately needed by Saudis [WT 9/21; LAT, NYT, WP 9/22].
Warning to prepare for "the mother of all battles," Iraq expels 3 U.S. diplomats and military attaches of 11 Western European nations. U.S. responds by expelling 3 diplomats from Iraqi embassy, including the military attache [WT 9/21; NYT, LAT, WP 9/22; MET 10/2].
PLO leadership holds emergency meeting, chaired by Yasir Arafat, in Tunis to discuss violence in Gaza Strip as sporadic clashes between Palestinians and IDF troops continue [ADS 9/21 in FBIS 9/24].
Palestinians burn Israel army officer to death in his car in Gaza Strip. Crowd stones the car after it makes wrong turn and drives into Bureij refugee camp; car is set afire after soldier hits cart, injuring 2 Palestinians while trying to flee camp. IDF imposes curfew on camp, and Gaza Strip is declared closed military zone (cf. 9/23, 9/24, 9/25, 9/28) [JDS 9/20 in FBIS 9/21; NYT, WP, WT 9/21; LAT 9/22; FJ 9/24; MET 10/2].
Saudi gov't says it will buy weapons elsewhere if U.S. backs down on $20-billion military sale [LAT, NYT, WP 9/21].
Saudi Arabia stops all oil deliveries to Jordan, citing Jordan's failure to meet payments, reportedly reflecting anger at Jordan for position in crisis; Saudi Arabia provided Jordan with 50% of its oil (cf. 10/24) [NYT, MEM 9/21].
According to Jordanian officials at least 50 Jordanians have been deported from Saudi Arabia in the last week [MEM 9/21].
Iraqi embassy in Amman announces Iraq has decided to allow all Arab nationals with residence permits who are willing to return to Iraq or Kuwait to do so as of today and until 10/26, after which right of return is forfeited [RMC 9/20 in FBIS 9/20].
Japanese officials say that Japan will funnel most of its $1 billion 1st installment of aid to multinational forces through Gulf Cooperation Council] [CSM 9/21].
2 U.S. Apache attack helicopters sold to Israel for $350 million each are met at air base by P.M. Shamir, who says U.S. is "obliged" to maintain Israel's military advantage over its Arab neighbors. Sale is part of deal that includes 16 additional Apaches, 60 F-16 fighter-bombers, 10 Sikorsky helicopters, and Stinger missiles [LAT 9/13].
Iran's "supreme leader" Ayatollah Khamenei declares jihad against U.S. forces in Saudi Arabia, calls American policy "greedy, bullying, and shameless"; denounces Saudis for inviting Americans in, he states: "a force that enters a country to defend it will grow to impose its will on the host and to humiliate it" [LAT, NYT, WT, WP, MEM 9/13].
PLO Exec. Committee releases statement in Tunis on Gulf situation, stressing linkage issue and regretting U.S. stance; Arafat meets with King Hussein on political solutions to Gulf crisis "within an Arab framework" [MEM 9/13].
In response to lawsuit brought by Israeli gov't, state supreme court in New York issues temporary order blocking U.S. publication of Victor Ostrosky and Claire Hoy's book By Way of Deception. A Devastating Insider's Portrait of the Mossad [NYT, WT, WP 9/13].
Pres. Asad, preparing for meeting with Sec. Baker on 9/14, says U.S. troops will leave Saudi Arabia when crisis is over: "The problem now is not the presence of foreign troops in the gulf. The problem is Iraq's invasion of Kuwait.... When it is over I am sure that all foreign troops will withdraw" [NYT, WT 9/13].
In Mecca, International Islamic Conference attended by 350 Islamic scholars from 80 countries ends after 3 days of heated debate; communique calls for Iraqi withdrawal from Kuwait, finds foreign troop presence in Saudi Arabia legitimate under current circumstances but emphasizes that they must leave region as soon as Iraq withdraws; calls for creation of permanent Pan-Islamic force for future conflicts [SPA 9/13 in FBIS 9/13; LAT, WP 9/14].
On tour of Middle East, Chrmn. of U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff, Gen. Colin Powell, arrives in Riyadh on 2-day visit to Gulf [WAKH 9/13, 9/14, SPA 9/13 in FBIS 9/14].
Speaking before European Parliament, Italian F.M. Andreotti says Gulf crisis could make more difficult a solution to Palestinian and Lebanese conflicts; he repeats EC's support for UN resolution demanding Israeli withdrawal from W. Bank and Gaza [MEM 9/13].
EC passes resolution 301 to 37 condemning Iraqi invasion, calling for withdrawal, but stating that only diplomatic solution can resolve crisis [MEM 9/13].
After 2 days of talks in Iran, Iraqi delegation under F.M. Aziz (1st high-level visit since 1979 revolution) announces it will restore full diplomatic ties [NYT, LAT 9/11].
Sec. Baker calls on NATO members to send ground-based forces to join U.S. units in Saudi Arabia; announces he will visit Syria [LAT, NYT, WT, WP 9/11].
General Federation of Trade Unions in O.T. estimate 56,675 Palestinians have been deported from Saudi Arabia and the Gulf region since Iraq's invasion of Kuwait, but urge them to try to return to their jobs as little work is available in O.T. [LAT, MEM 9/11; FJ 9/17].
In gesture to break embargo, Saddam Hussein offers free oil to developing nations that defy armada of international warships in the region [NYT, WT, MEM, WP 9/11; MET 9/18].
After much debate, foreign ministers of 12 of 21 Arab League members agree to move Arab League's headquarters to Cairo from Tunis (Iraq, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, Mauritania, Jordan, Yemen, and PLO boycott meeting); 5-member committee supervising relocation given 60 days to complete move [MENA 9/9 in FBIS 9/11; WT, MEM 9/11; CSM 9/12; FJ 9/17; MET 9/18].
Military sources report Syrian air force has issued orders to allow NATO spy planes leaving British bases in Cyprus to overfly Syria as they monitor Iraqi troop positions [AVP 9/10 in FBIS 9/11].
3-day meeting of International Islamic Conference opens in Mecca; King Fahd sends message to conference stating foreign troops will be asked to leave Saudi Arabia after the crisis has ended (cf. 9/12) [RTS 9/11, SPA 9/13 in FBIS 9/13].
Trial of former IDF reservist Ami Popper, accused of murdering 8 Palestinians in Gaza on 5/20, opens in Tel Aviv [MET 9/18].
Pres. Bush accepts offer from Baghdad to speak on Iraqi television, says 10-15 minute speech would provide "real opportunity" to explain why he has sent U.S. troops to Saudi Arabia [LAT, WP 9/7].
Iraq acquiesces to U.S. demand that U.S. consular be given access to American wounded by Iraqi gunfire in Kuwait [LAT, WP 9/7].
Jewish and Roman Catholic leaders, meeting in Prague, agree to forge closer relationship and combat anti-Semitism in E. Europe [LAT 9/7].
UN acknowledges shortcomings in its relief efforts for tens of thousands of refugees who fled Kuwait and Iraq for Jordan [LAT 9/7].
Saudi Arabia announces it will cover virtually all of the hundreds of millions of dollars in monthly operating costs of U.S. forces; Saudis will also contribute several billion dollars in aid to Middle East nations that have joined the coalition against Iraq [NYT, WP 9/7; MET 9/18].
Several nations, including China, India, and Tunisia, say they are considering sending emergency food and medicine to Iraq despite embargo [NYT 9/7].
Britain announces it will send additional forces to the Gulf region, and will provide about $4 million in aid to refugee relief organizations [NYT, WP 9/7].
Pres. Bush telephones Pres. Asad to discuss Gulf crisis; Asad also meets with delegation from European Parliament [DDS 9/6 in FBIS 9/7].
Qatar deports 15 additional Palestinians; this is 3d group of deportees [RAY 9/9 in FBIS 9/10].
Sec. Baker meets in Jeddah with King Fahd to discuss Gulf crisis [WP 9/7; RTS 9/7 in FBIS 9/10].
Ending 2-day meeting in Saudi Arabia to discuss crisis, foreign ministers of 6-member Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) demand immediate Iraqi withdrawal from Kuwait [SPA, RIDS 9/5 in FBIS 9/6; MET 9/18].
General strike called by Hamas is observed in Gaza Strip; commercial strike is observed in parts of W. Bank [FJ 9/10].
Pres. Mubarak meets with U.S. Senate delegation headed by Robert Dole (R-KS) and including Nunn (D-GA), Warner (R-VA), Garn (R-UT), D'Amato (R-NY), Nickles (R- OK), Symms (R-ID), and Mack (R-FL)
[MENA 8/28 in FBIS 8/28]; Sen. Nunn calls for more Arab military involvement in Gulf [WP 8/28].
Saddam meets with Arafat at Arafat's residence in Baghdad to discuss Gulf crisis [BADS 8/27 in FBIS 8/28]; PLO reports Arafat and Saddam have agreed on plan to solve Gulf crisis within Arab framework [MET 9/4].
Sources says P.M. Shamir is "concerned" and "astonished" over Washington's refusal as of yet to give Israel $400 million in loan guarantees for housing Soviet immigrants. U.S. wants assurances that no immigrants will be settled beyond the green line [HAM 8/27 in FBIS 8/28].
Jerusalem Post reports Gaza lawyers are informed by Civil Admin. that all prisoners under age 16 will be released from detention centers [JPD 8/28 in FBIS 8/30].
Bush admin. expels 36 of Iraq's 55 embassy staffers in Washington, urges 34 other nations with embassies in Kuwait to take similar steps [LAT, WT, WP 8/28; MEM 8/29; MET 9/11].
State Dep't white paper supports Israeli charges that Libya gave "crucial support" to PLF attempted raid on 5/30, but concludes the operation was directed primarily at Tel Aviv beaches and not at military targets, as Israel had claimed [LAT 8/28].
Pres. Mubarak and Saudi F.M. Prince Saud al-Faisal hold talks in Cairo on Gulf crisis [MET 8/28].
French gov't, alarmed by reports that its citizens are being detained in Baghdad, orders its Gulf fleet to use force if necessary to ensure compliance with UN sanctions [WP 8/20].
PLO issues first official statement on Gulf crisis, saying it will continue to seek Arab solution that would "preserve everyone's dignity, and not in favor of one party at the expense of another" [MEM 8/20; CSM 8/21]; Chrmn. of Palestine National Fund and PLO Exec. Committee member Jawayd al-Ghusayn calls Iraq's occupation of Kuwait illegal; says PLO should not take sides in the crisis [SPA 8/19, AFP 8/20 in FBIS 8/20; WT 8/20].
Israeli F.M. David Levy calls for gas masks to be distributed immediately to the population [JDS 8/19 in FBIS 8/20].
Israeli Supreme Court rejects a petition calling on army to lift permanent nighttime curfew on Gaza Strip, saying it was not convinced the army's reasons for imposing curfew were wrong [MEM 8/20; JPD 8/20 in FBIS 8/24; FJ 9/3].
IDF troops shoot, kill Jordanian soldier, injure another in skirmish just inside W. Bank [IDF 8/19 in FBIS 8/20; NYT, LAT, MEM 8/20; MET 8/28].
Italian F.M. De Michelis, meeting with Israeli F.M. Levy, says PLO made a "mistake" by supporting Iraq and warned that if Arafat doesn't change position "we will have to revise our attitude towards the PLO" [WP 8/17].
Palestinians in O.T. issue statement, reportedly agreed to by all 4 local PLO factions, calling for Iraqi withdrawal from Kuwait and "restoration of Kuwaiti selfdetermination" [WP 8/17].
Strike called for by Hamas is observed throughout O.T. [WP 8/17].
Washington Post reports that Israel's sideline role in Gulf crisis (requested by Washington) has prompted Israeli concern that its place as premier U.S. military ally in the region is being undermined [WP 8/16].
GCC holds emergency meeting in Jeddah to discuss Iraqi threat [RIDS 8/15 in FBIS 8/16].
Egyptian authorities have reportedly closed the Rafah border to Palestinians in view of sympathy Gaza Strip residents have shown for Iraq [YA 8/15 in FBIS 8/ 16].
U.S. federal appeals court clears way for Palestinian-American Mahmoud Abed Ahmad to be extradited to Israel; Ahmad is accused of taking part in machine-gun attack on Israeli bus in W. Bank; court rejects Ahmad's argument that the crime was political act not covered by extradition treaty with Israel [WT, WP 8/16]
Ethiopia has reportedly stopped issuing exit visas for Jews in attempt to compel Israel to send Ethiopian gov't. more weapons. Israeli advisors, weapons, and surveillance equipment are being used by gov't. against rebel guerrilla armies [WJW, WT 7/12; NYT 7/13, 7/14]; Washington Jewish Week says classified congressional memorandum confirms that Israel has supplied Ethiopia with cluster bombs, military trainers, etc. as part of deal [MEM 7/13; JDS 7/13 in FBIS 7/13].
Israeli Labor party's 150-member leadership bureau abandons its 7/5 position of not taking sides in party leadership struggle, backs Yitzhak Rabin over Shimon Peres on major issues; Labor's 1,400-member central committee will reach final decisions at 7/22 meeting [JDS 7/12 in FBIS 7/13; NYT, WP, WT 7/13].
West Bank settlers have set up "foreign office," called Foreign Relations Forum of the Council of Jewish Communities in Judea, Samaria and Gaza, whose task is to explain to foreign and domestic gov't. and media personalities the "needs and rights" of settlers [JPD 7/12 in FBIS 7/12].
Chrmn. of U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff, Gen. Colin Powell, arrives in Israel, meets with D.M. Moshe Arens [JDS 7/ 12 in FBIS 7/13].
In Moscow, Soviet-Arab dialogue continues as Soviet officials host delegation from Algeria, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Libya, Palestine, Syria and Tunisia [IZV 7/14].
In first interview with U.S. newspaper in nearly 6 years, Iraq's Saddam Hussein says another Mideast war is "inevitable" unless U.S. deters aggressive Israeli policies against Palestinians; that Iraq will stand up to any Israeli military aggression in the area [WSJ 6/28].
Joint Jewish Agency and gov't. coordinating committee on immigration and absorption approve annual budget of $2.3 million for absorbing 150,000 immigrants a year for next 3 years; plan includes construction of 45,000 new apartments [IGP 6/27 in FBIS 6/27].
Esmat Abdel Meguid, Egypt's F.M., meets in New York with UN Sec. Gen. Javier Perez de Cuellar to brief de Cuellar on Meguid's meetings with Pres. Bush, Sec. Baker [MENA 6/27 in FBIS 6/28].
UN envoy Jean-Claude Amie tours Gaza Strip and meets with Palestinian officials there who request UN protection [JDS 6/28 in FBIS 6/28].
West Bank Civil Admin. allows 2 colleges to reopen: al-Najah University in Nablus and Science University in Abu Dis; studies will resume in mid-July [JDS 6/27 in FBIS 6/28].
Soviet Pres. Mikhail Gorbachev sends letter to Egyptian Pres. Mubarak, stressing need for continued peaceful efforts and declaring suspension of U.S.- PLO dialogue as harmful to peace process [RMC 6/28 in FBIS 6/29].
Concluding 3-day visit to Israel, speakers of East and West German parliaments say they have received P.M. Shamir's unconditional approval of reunification of Germany. Shamir says he expects Germany to influence other EC members to adopt more understanding attitude toward Israel [JDS 6/28 in FBIS 6/28; WT 6/28].
Pres. of European Parliament, Enrique Baron Crespo, meets in Tunis with Arafat, according to WAFA [MEM 6/28].
Abul Abbas, leader of PLF group responsible for 5/30 attempted seaborne raid on Israel, says that he is prepared to accept disciplinary action from PLO Exec. Committee, adds that Arafat may "take any measure he sees as necessary to protect the national achievements of our people." Abbas adds that he has given to Arafat a file on the attack to show raid had been aimed at military targets [NYT 6/24].
New York Times reports Abu Nidal is losing control over his Fateh Revolutionary Council; dissidentsay they will follow Arafat [NYT 6/24].
Israeli navy destroy speedboat, kills two unidentified people, off coast of S.Lebanon; military sources claim terrorists aboard were en route to Israel [JDS 6/24 in FBIS 6/25].
Joyce Starr, co-chair of Global Strategy Council, a U.S. thinktank, advises that untreated sewage is causing sanitary and environmental problems in Gaza Strip: "Gaza is a sewage time bomb waiting to explode... .[it] has reached the limits of its disposable water resources" [LAT 6/24].
Testifying before Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Sec. of State James Baker says U.S. will not rush to break off contacts with PLO, despite fact that PLO's response to 5/30 attempted attack has "fallen short of the mark." Baker reports that "an extraordinarily large number" of allies has urged Washington not to move too quickly or rashly [WT, WP 6/13]; Baker also says that at least 7 nations including Egypt and USSR have agreed to urge PLO to save its dialogue with U.S. [LAT 6/13]; Pres. Bush reiterates his call for PLO to roundly condemn 5/30 attempted attack [WP 6/13].
Officials in Bush admin. and Congress say Israel has emerged as leading supplier of advanced military technology to China, despite U.S.'s clearly expressed opposition to Israeli-Chinese military cooperation [LAT 6/13].
IDF soldier throws tear gas grenade into UN maternity clinic in Gaza Strip; 66 infants are treated for gas inhalation. IDF says soldier acted contrary to orders, and legal steps would be taken. IDF was responding to stonethrowing incident around the clinic (cf. 6/13, 6/14) [JDS 6/12 in FBIS 6/14; WT, WP, LAT 6/13; FJ 6/18].
Sec. of State James Baker says U.S. "would be prepared to discuss the question of a United Nations observer team" going to O.T. when UN Sec. Council meets in Geneva on 5/25 [NYT, WP, WT, LAT 5/24; MEM 5/25].
European Community's exec. commission grants emergency aid of 500,000 ECU ($600,000) for Palestinian victims of violence in O.T. [MEM 5/24].
Israeli Maj. Gen. Matan Vilna'i, commander of Southern Command, orders stricter firing regulations in Gaza to reduce casualties; new orders give only senior commander of each sector authorization to allow firing of plastic or rubber bullets [MAA 5/24 in FBIS 5/25].
Mideast Mirror reports thousands of Palestinian workers have stayed away from their jobs since 5/20 killings, and renewal of communal tensions [MEM 5/ 23].
Pres. Bush telephones Pres. Mubarak to discuss recent events, especially Soviet Jewish emigration to Israel [MENA 5/ 23 in FBIS 5/24; MENA 5/25 in FBIS 5/ 25].
Ambassadors to Tunisia from France, Italy, and Ireland, and European Community meet with Arafat to discuss past week's violence in O.T. [KUNA 5/25 in FBIS 5/25].
General strike is observed in Lebanon; banks, other businesses, are closed in solidarity with Palestinians condemning 5/20 killings; demonstrations are held in Beirut [BDS 5/23 in FBIS 5/24].
Arab foreign ministers conclude presummit working session begun 5/22 in Baghdad, adopt agenda for 5/28 summit [INA 5/23 in FBIS 5/24].
Scattered anti-Israel demonstrations take place in and near Amman refugee camps; some 200 protestors are dispersed at Ministry of Interior [JTE 5/24, 5/25 in FBIS 5/25]; at least I person is killed, several injured [MEM 5/24].
Former IDF soldier, in uniform, shoots dead 7 Arabs, wounds 11 others near Rishon le Zion after taking away their ID cards as they were on their way to work; Shamir condemns attack [IDF, JDS 5/20 in FBIS 5/21; WP, LAT, NYT, WT, CSM, MEM 5/21; FJ 5/28; MET 5/ 29]; 8th person dies of wounds in hospital [IDF 5/20 in FBIS 5/21]; Arafat calls on international community to condemn attack, says he will rethink peace process [RMC 5/20 in FBIS 5/21]; disturbances erupt throughout O.T., at least 4 Palestinians are killed, reports say perhaps 700 injured [JDS, MENA 5/20 in FBIS 5/ 21; MET 5/29]; Gazan leaders refuse to meet with Civil Admin. officials to help calm tempers in Gaza; Gaza is placed under curfew [JDS 5/20 in FBIS 5/21]; leading Palestinians including Faisal Husayni, begin hunger strike to demand international protection for Palestinians [MEM 5/21; FJ 5/28].
In separate meetings in Cairo, Nelson Mandela meets with Arafat, Mubarak [MENA 5/20 in FBIS 5/21].
Israeli military announces it will allow Arab Medical College of al-Quds University to reopen on 5/30 [FJ 5/28].
In Amman, Arafat and King Hussein revive Jordanian-Palestinian joint committees, 1 for politics, 1 for information [QUD 4/20 in FBIS 4/24].
Interim P.M. Shamir is hurriedly seeking to establish new Jewish settlements in O.T. before his gov't. leaves office [WP, LAT 4/19].
Bulldozers, guarded by Israeli soldiers, level orange grove in Gaza Strip for construction of new Dugit settlement. Soviet F.M. spokesperson says "some circles in Israel continue to deliberately raise obstacles to a peaceful settlement in the Middle East" [WT 4/19].
Islamic Jihad says it will release one of its 3 hostages "within 48 hours" as a "goodwill initiative"; group also calls for asst. sec. of state John Kelly to come to Damascus "to coordinate final measures" [WP, LAT, WT 4/19].
Egypt's F.M. Esmat Abdel Meguid says Egypt intends to press for ban on "weapons of mass destruction" in Middle East [WP 4/19].
Jerusalem District Court overturns lower court ruling, allows eviction of Jewish nationalists from Hospice of St. John (cf. 4/10) [WP, LAT, WT 4/18; NYT 4/ 19; JDS 4/17 in FBIS 4/18].
In Moscow, Faisal Husayni meets with Soviet F.M. officials to discuss Jewish emigration [YA 4/17 in FBIS 4/18].
Arafat arrives in Amman for official state visit [ADS 4/17 in FBIS 4/17].
Palestinians commemorate 2d anniversary of assassination Abu Jihad [Kahlil al-Wazir]; at least 30 Gazans are injured in marches [jDS 4/17 in FBIS 4/18].
Pres. Saddam Hussein says Iraqi military commanders have standing orders to attack Israel with chemical weapons in event Israel uses nuclear weapons against Iraq [LAT 4/18].
Asked 3/20 to form gov't. Labor leader Peres asks interim P.M. Shamir if Likud would be interested in joining Labor-led gov't.; Shamir's reply is unequivocal "no" [NYT 3/22].
Palestinian farmers in Gaza Strip say Israel has begun restricting sales of their vegetables to W. Bank [MET 4/3-9].
Hungarian commercial airline Malev suspends direct and charter flights of Soviet Jews to Israel due to threats from Islamic Jihad (cf. 3/23, 3/28, 4/1) [NYT, WP 3/22].
Namibia and the State of Palestine agree to formalize diplomatic relations, exchange ambassadors [MENA 3/21 in FBIS 3/22].
Brig. Gen. Shmu'el Zucker assumes duty as commander of IDF forces in Gaza; replaces Brig. Gen. Tzvi Poleg [IDF 2/28 in FBIS 3/1].
Sec. Baker indicates Bush admin. would back $400 million loan guarantee program for housing Soviet Jews in Israel only if Israel stopped settlements in O.T.; also says he favors cuts in U.S. aid to Israel, Egypt, other major recipients in order to provide money for emerging democracies [NYT, WP, WT 3/2; NYT 3/3].
Pres. Bush denies U.S. is holding direct or indirect talks with Iran or Syria about release of American hostages in Middle East [WP, WT 3/2].
Appearing before House Foreign Affairs Committee, Defense Sec. Richard Cheney defends plan to give Egypt 700 surplus U.S. tanks made obsolete by reduction of European forces, says Israel was consulted and did not object [WT 3/ 2].
Arab diplomatic sources say ACC leaders have agreed Egypt, Iraq, and Yemen Arab Republic will intervene militarily in event of Israeli military threat to Jordan [WFD 3/1 in FBIS 3/8].
British Foreign Sec. Douglas Hurd meets with PLO advisor Bassam Abu Sharif in London; Hurd reiterates Britain's objection to settling immigrants in O.T. [WAKH 3/2 in FBIS 3/2].
Speaking in Jerusalem, Shimon Peres reiterates it is not Israeli gov't. policy to settle Soviet Jews in O.T. [JDS 3/2 in FBIS 3/2].
3 trade union groups in W. Bank end 9-year rift, merge into 1 group: General Federation of Trade Unions in the West Bank, headed by Shahar Saeed [MET 3/ 13-19].
Explosion detonated by "resistance fighters" kills 2 Israelis in S. Lebanon [BDS 3/1 in FBIS 3/2]; security sources report Israel has brought additional armored reinforcements into its "security zone" in S. Lebanon [BNR 3/1 in FBIS 3/1].
Polish officials will comply with F.M. Arens's request for Poland to serve as transit point for emigrating Soviet Jews [MAA 2/28 in FBIS 3/1].
February poll conducted by Modi'in Ezrahi Research Institute indicates 60% of surveyed Israelis are in favor of settling new immigrants in O.T. [HAD 2/28 in FBIS 3/1].
P.M. Shamir, speaking before Presidents of American Jewish Organizations in Jerusalem, says if Israel were to leave O.T. "a Beirut-like situation" would develop [IGP 2/28 in FBIS 3/2].
Led by economics minister Yitzhak Modai, 5 Likud Knesset members announce the formation of opposition party, "The Party for the Promotion of the Zionist Idea" [NYT 3/1; JDS 2/28 in FBIS 3/1].
Yasir Arafat meets with Nelson Mandela in Lusaka; the two note they are fighting common struggle against imperialism and racism [SVP 3/1 in FBIS 3/ 2].
W. Bank Civil Admin. allows 3 religious colleges/seminaries toreopen [JDS 2/28 in FBIS 2/28].
Arabs in E. Jerusalem and Gaza Strip hold general strike to protest Israel's continued closure of Palestinian universities [MET 3/13-19].
Poland becomes 3d Warsaw Pact nation to renew full diplomatic ties with Israel, ending 23-year break [NYT 2/28].
D.M. Rabin says Israel is asking U.S. for compensation for U.S. supplying Egypt with surplus M-60 tanks [JDS 2/27 in FBIS 2/28].
Radan Abu-'Ayyash, head of E. Jerusalem Journalists Association, tells reporters that "according to new PLO strategy, the Palestinian right of return will be confined to the borders of the Palestinian state - the West Bank and Gaza Strip" [HAM 2/27 in FBIS 2/28].
PFLP in Damascus announces use of arms in O.T. has now become necessary [RMC 2/27 in FBIS 2/28].
Israeli military extends by 3 months closure order for 7 O.T. universities, now closed until end of May [WP 2/28; JDS 2/ 27 in FBIS 2/28; MET 3/13-19]; prompts student sit-ins throughout O.T. [NYT 2/ 28; HAA 2/28 in FBIS 3/1].
In a speech in Lusaka, Zambia, Nelson Mandela says that Yasir Arafat, who is in attendance, is fighting "a unique form of colonialism and we wish him success in his struggle" [NYT, LAT 2/28].
Israeli F.M. Moshe Arens arrives in Warsaw to renew diplomatic ties with Poland; Polish gov't. newspaper issues detailed apology for past anti-Semitic acts [WP 2/27].
In Jerusalem, Shimon Peres has told Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations that U.S. Sec. of State Baker's proposals for negotiations are acceptable to most of Israeli public [IDF 2/26 in FBIS 2/27].
PLO leaders have authorized Radwan Abu-'Ayyash, chrmn. of E. Jerusalem Journalists Association, to begin exploratory talks with State Dep't. officials John Kelly and Dennis Ross in Washington [MAA 2/26 in FBIS 2/26].
Israeli Arabs stage one-day strike pressing gov't. to put into place agreemento write off $50 million of debt accumulated by Arab town and city councils. About 4,000 Arabs march through Haifa in protest [NYT 2/27].
Israeli military authorities allow 16 community colleges in O.T. to reopen (combined enrollment of c.5,000) [NYT, WP, LAT 2/27].
At least 91 Palestinians are injured by IDF gunfire in one of the most violent days ever in Gaza Strip [NYT 2/26; LAT 2/27]; Israeli helicopter is used to teargas demonstrators [JDS 2/26 in FBIS 2/27].
UN Human Rights Committee endorses resolution calling for Israel not to settle Soviet Jews in O.T. U.S. abstains (cf. 2/17) [ADS 2/18 in FBIS 2/20].
USSR has informed U.S. it will not allow direct Aeroflot flights from Soviet Union to Israel (cf. 2/19) [YA 2/16 in FBIS 2/16].
Soviet P.M. Nikolay Ryzhkov says USSR will consideresuming diplomatic ties with Israel only after Israeli-Palestinian dialogue is launched [RPP 2/16 in FBIS 2/23].
Yasir Arafat contacts the "parties concerned" in the intra-Christian fighting in E. Beirut, offers to mediate (cf. 2/19) [RMC 2/17 in FBIS 2/20].
Gaza Strip residents observe general strike [MET 2/27-3/5].
Israeli helicopters attack Amal post south of Sidon, S. Lebanon; no injuries UDS 2/16 in FBIS 2/20; MET 2/27-3/5].
DFLP has asked Red Cross to force Israel to give prisoner of war status to 3 DFLP members captured 2/15 [RMC 2/ 16 in FBIS 2/20].