The Palestine Chronology

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli settler stabbed to death in Gaza market; Gaza put under curfew (FBIS 9/29). Responsibility claimed by Fateh's "Force 17" (AFP 9/27).

Military Action

Arab World: Heavy fighting between rival Christian militias in East Beirut; Syrian-backed Muslim and Christian militiamen under Ilyas Hubayqa cross green line from West Beirut (first time in civil war that armed forces have crossed from west Beirut to east) and attack Lebanese forces under Samir Ja'ja'. Fighting is brought under control by Lebanese army (NYT 9/28); 62 dead, 198 wounded by one account (WP 9/29). 52 dead, 200 wounded by another (NYT 9/29). New York Times quotes local sources saying fighting resulted from coup attempt against President Jumayyil.

Social/Economic/Political

Arab World: PLO announces in Sidon that 4 Israeli soldiers and 4 PLO fighters were killed in 7.5-hour clash near northern Israeli settlement of Zarit a few days ago [BG 3/23]. Nabih Birri, head of Amal, states Israeli weapons and military personnel have been sent to Christian districts in Beirut to assist militia forces there in their confrontation with Muslims [NYT 3/24]. Iraq displays Israeli-made weapons and equipment it says was captured in recent battles with Iran [JP 3/23].

Other Countries: Spanish Foreign Minister Francisco Fernandez Ordonez says Spain will grant full diplomatic status to the PLO [WP 3/23; MG 3/24].