The Palestine Chronology

Guyana recognizes a “sovereign Palestine,” but says borders must be agreed with Israel. (JTA 1/14)

In the West Bank, the IDF conducts afternoon patrols in numerous villages around Jenin and Qalqilya; conducts latenight patrols nr. Ramallah; and conducts late-night arrest raids and house searches in Hebron. Palestinians (accompanied by Israeli and international activists in some areas) hold weekly nonviolent demonstrations against the separation wall, land confiscations, and settlement expansion in Bil‘in, Ni‘lin, and Dayr Nizam/Nabi Salih. IDF soldiers fire rubber-coated steel bullets, tear gas, and stun grenades at the protesters; 2 Palestinians (including 1 child), 1 Dutch activist, and 1 Israeli are injured. (PCHR 1/20; OCHA 1/21)

Fearing massive protests later in the day, Tunisia’s Ben Ali declares a state of emergency in the morning, dissolves his government, and pledges early elections within 6 mos. Within hours, he and his family flee Tunisia for Saudi Arabia, where they are granted asylum. Ben Ali’s close ally, PM Muhammad Ghannouchi, assumes temporary control, saying he will move the government quickly toward elections. Protesters denounce his attempt to take control and demand his ouster for attempting to perpetuate Ben Ali’s corrupt regime, noting that constitutionally power should transfer to the head of parliament. In Cairo, a small group of Egyptian protesters gathers outside the Tunisian emb. in solidarity with Tunisian demonstrators, but also calling Mubarak a “fraud” and calling for his ouster. Police surround and outnumber them, but there is no violence. (NYT, WP 1/15; NYT 2/24)

The IDF fatally shoots 2 AMB mbrs. laying a roadside bomb nr. the Rafah border; fatally shoots a Palestinian farmer tilling a field nr. Khan Yunis; raids a hospital in Nablus, closing it for 3 hrs., but leaving without arresting anyone; conducts arrest raids in Nablus (targeting the tanz im), Qalqilya (targeting the PFLP). A Palestinian dies of injuries received earlier. Jewish settlers set up a tent at the site of the fatal 5/5 shooting of a Jewish settler on the Nablus–Ramallah road, vowing to erect a permanent settlement at the location. Palestinians fire a mortar at a Jewish settlement in Gaza, causing no damage or injuries. Israel releases another 35 Palestinian prisoners—significantly less than the 120 Israel had said it would release today. (HA 5/12; NYT, WP 5/13; PCHR 5/15)

Powell meets briefly with Quartet reps. in Jerusalem before meeting with Egyptian pres. Husni Mubarak in Cairo, King Abdallah of Jordan in Amman to rally Arab support for a PA crackdown on Palestinian militant groups. Powell says that it makes “no difference” whether or not Israel has declared acceptance of the road map; the important thing is for both sides to begin implementation. (HA, NYT, WP 5/12; MENA 5/12 in WNC 5/13; HA, WP, WT 5/13)

Late in the evening, on the eve of Powell’s arrival in Saudi Arabia, suicide bombers in Riyadh simultaneously detonate 3 car bombs outside residential compounds for foreigners and 1 outside a Saudi-U.S.-owned business, killing 34 persons (including8 Americans, 5 Saudis), wounding around 200 (including at least 40 Americans), many seriously. Most of the bombers appear to be Saudi, but no group takes responsibility; the U.S., Saudi Arabia suspect al-Qa‘ida. (BBC, NYT, WP, WT 5/13; NYT, REU, WP, WT 5/14; NYT, WP 5 /15)

As Israeli-Palestinian fighting continue as Israel marks Yom Kippur. Barak warns if clashes continue, the IDF's will begin targeting Arafat's offices, PA police stations, top cmdrs.; Israel may implement a "sanctions package" (including, sealing the West Bank and Gaza, halting all monetary transfers). At Netzarim Junction, the IDF demolishes 2 apartment buildings formerly used as PA police barracks, a factory, an office, several homes, a water well, and an 20-dunam orange grove. A settler rabbi is found shot to death in a West Bank cave. Armed Jewish settlers enter Palestinian areas of East Jerusalem and Hebron, Bidya, Husan, Salfit, Shuafat camp, burning shops, beating Palestinians, shooting at houses, and wounding at least 8 Palestinians, 1 of whom bleeds to death as settlers hold off ambulances with gunfire. Inside Israel, Jewish residents of Upper Nazareth attack Israeli Arabs, property in Nazareth. (ADM, LAW, REU 10/8; Interfax 10/8 in WNC 10/10; Gush Shalom press release, MM, NYT, WP, WT 10/9; HA [Internet], MM, WP 10/10; MA 10/10 in WNC 10/12; HA [Internet] 10/11; MEI, NYT 10/13; LAW 10/19; Globes [Internet] 10/25)

Lebanon places its forces on alert as Israel reinforces troops on the blue line, conducts overflights of Beirut, and warns Hizballah, Lebanon, and Syria of "decisive action" if Hizballah does not release the 3 IDF soldiers kidnapped on 10/7. Saudi Arabia warns Israel that Arab states will not sit idly by if Barak follows through on his threat. (NYT, WP, WT 10/9; MM 10/10; MEI 10/13)

Pres. Clinton asks Mubarak to convene a summit where they could meet with Arafat, Barak. None of the 3 leaders immediately embraces the idea. (MM, NYT, WP, WT 10/9; MENA 10/9 in WNC 10/10; AYM 10/10 in WNC 10/12)

In Gaza, Arafat meets with the Executive Authority and reps. of Hamas, Islamic Jihad to coordinate a joint response to Barak's latest warnings. (NYT 10/9; HJ, MA 10/10 in WNC 10/12; MM 10/11)

The PA releases 5 Hamas mbrs. fr. PA jails. Hamas says 23 mbrs. have been freed in recent days. (AYM 10/9 in WNC 10/12; AYM 10/12 in WNC 10/13) (see 10/4)

Jordan announces that it will postpone sending its newly appointed amb. to Israel to protest Israel's excessive use of force against Palestinians. (WP 10/9; MM 10/10; HA [Internet] 10/11)

In Morocco, 500,000 people march to protest Israel's recent actions. In Amman, 100s of Jordanian students attempt a march to the U.S., Israeli embs. but clash with riot police; at least 5 are injured, 10 arrested. In Beirut, 25,000 Lebanese and Palestinians march in funeral processions for 2 Palestinians shot by IDF on the blue line on 10/7. In Cairo, 9,000 Egyptian students hold a rally. Demonstrations continue in Australia, Greece, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, Yemen. In the U.S., protests are held in Albuquerque, Anaheim, Kansas City. (UPI 10/8; MENA 10/8, JT 10/9 in WNC 10/10; MM 10/9; Daily Star [Internet], NYT, WP 10/9; TT 10/10 in WNC 10/12; MEI 10/13)

In Cairo, Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Abdallah continues talks with Pres. Mubarak on the peace process, bilateral relations. (Saudi Arabian Kingdom Radio Network 6/5 in WNC 6/8)

In Hebron, a settler opens fire on a Palestinian car, killing a passenger. (LAW 6/5)

In Bethlehem, Palestinians protesting Israeli settlement activity clash with IDF troops. No injuries are reported. (AP [Internet] 6/5)

In Amman, King Abdallah of Jordan, Crown Prince Abdallah of Saudi Arabia call on Israeli PM-elect Barak to exchange land for peace with the Palestinians. The crown prince then heads to Cairo, where he meets with Pres. Mubarak. (MM 6/4; MENA, RJ 6/4 in WNC 6/8; WP 6/5)

Lebanese PM Salim al-Huss makes 1st visit to Jazzin in 17 yrs. by a top Lebanese official. (VOL 6/4 in WNC 6/8; NYT, WT 6/5; al-Ba`th 6/6 in WNC 6/11; MEI 6/18)

In Cairo, Pres. Mubarak, King Hussein, PA's Arafat hold tripartite summit in Cairo to discuss latest developments in the peace process given the "deteriorating situation in the occupied Palestinian territories"; warn that tensions are reaching dangerous levels; discuss 6/30 UNSC debate, possible Arab summit. (AFP, ESC Television, IDF Radio, MENA, VOA 7/5, MENA, VOA 7/6 in WNC 7/7; MM, NYT, WP, WT 7/6; al-Akhbar 7/6 in WNC 7/13; CSM, PR 7/10; MEI 7/17)

PM Netanyahu, Public Security M Avigdor Kahalani, the head of the Shin Bet, reps. of other security bodies hold follow-up mtg. on how to deal with the "worrisome phenomenon" of "Palestinization" of Israeli Arabs. (MA 7/7 in WNC 7/13; PR 7/17) (see 7/1)

In the 2d of 4 days of talks in Amman, Jordan, Saudi Arabia discuss converting their current trade agmt. into a free trade agmt. (JT, RJ 7/5 in WNC 7/7)

Jewish settlers torch 4 Palestinian produce stalls in the Hebron market. (WJW 7/9)

In Cairo, Pres. Mubarak, Saudi FM Prince Saud al-Faysal discuss peace process, possible Arab summit. (MENA 6/10 in WNC 6/11; MENA 6/12 in WNC 6/15)

In Gaza, Arafat, Jordanian PM Majali discuss peace process, possible Arab summit. Majali hands Arafat a letter fr. King Hussein, outlining Netanyahu's position on FRD as transmitted to the king via Israeli DM Mordechai on 6/7. (JTV 6/10 in WNC 6/12; Shihan 6/27 in WNC 6/30; al-Dustur 7/1 in WNC 7/2) 

Syrian FM Shara` meets with PLO Exec. Comm. mbr. and Arafat adviser on refugee affairs As`ad `Abd al-Rahman to reopen discussion on refugee issues. (RMC 6/12 in WNC 6/15)

During their 2d day of talks, Iran, Turkey sign memorandum of understanding on setting up a joint chamber of commerce, beginning engineering and technical cooperation on natural gas. (IRIB Television 6/10, MENA 6/11 in WNC 6/12; IRNA 6/11, 6/13 in WNC 6/17)

In Hebron district, IDF bulldozes 70 dunams of Palestinians orchards, saying it has warned Palestinians not to farm "state land." Trees on the land were 5+n10 yrs. old. (Christian Peacemaker Teams press release 7/14)

In East Jerusalem, Israeli peace activists protesting settlement activity clash with Israeli police. (CSM 6/11)

Some 50 Christian human rights activists stage sit-in to protest settler's occupation of Silwan homes 5/8. (WT 6/11)

PM Netanyahu arrives in China for 3-day visit. (MM 5/26)

In Cairo, Arafat attends Arab League mtg. called to commemorate the 50th anniversary of al-Nakba; calls for Arab summit on the peace process. (MENA, RE 5/26 in WNC 5/27)

Egyptian FM `Amr Musa arrives in Amman for talks with King Hussein on Mubarak's trip to France, possible Arab summit; says Pres. Mubarak is discussing summit idea with other Arab leaders, including Morocco's King Hassan, who arrived in Cairo today for 3-day official visit, and Syria's Pres. Asad. (MENA, RE, RJ 5/26 in WNC 5/27; MM 5/27, 5/28)

In Tel Aviv, Israel's DM Yitzhak Mordechai meets with Turkey's dep. chief of staff, Gen. Cevik Bir, for talks on the peace process, furthering military cooperation, possible joint arms projects. (WT 5/27)

Saudi Arabia's FM Prince Saud al-Faisal arrives in Iran for 2-day talks on improving bilateral ties. (WT 5/27)

Hamas's Shaykh Yasin visits Syria's Yarmuk refugee camp, where he receives warm welcome fr. Palestinian refuges. (WP 6/11) (see 5/25)

In East Jerusalem, Israeli border policemen clash with Palestinians protesting illegal construction by Jewish settlers (see 5/25). To halt violence, Israel's Jerusalem mayor Ehud Olmert bans the construction in the name of Israel's Antiquities Dept., orders the demolition of the settlers' illegal dwellings. (ITV 5/26 in WNC 5/27; MM, NYT 5/27; WJW 5/28; MM 6/3; MEI 6/5; WT 6/9)

Yemen reports that over the past 2 days, Saudi troops have seized the island of Harim in the Red Sea as part of an attempt to pressure Sana' to make territorial concessions in the 2 countries' border demarcation negotiations, which just resumed last wk. The island is 1 of 3 uninhabited but strategically significant Red Sea islands in dispute. (MM 5/26)

3 SLA mbrs., 3 Hizballah mbrs. are killed in 2 clashes in s. Lebanon. 4 civilians are injured, over 100 flee their homes. (ITV, RL, VOL 5/26 in WNC 5/27)

PM Netanyahu, Arafat adviser Mahmud Abbas meet secretly at Netanyahu's home for brief talks on the peace process before Netanyahu leaves for China. (MM 6/12)

To mark Jerusalem Day, Israel stages largest military parade (13,000 troops) through West Jerusalem since 1973, attended by U.S. congressional delegation. Groups of right-wing Israelis try to enter al-Aqsa Mosque, march on Orient House. IDF bans Palestinian entry into Jerusalem for the day, sparking clashes btwn. IDF, Palestinians in Bethlehem. (al-Dustur, RJ 5/24 in WNC 5/27; WT 5/25; PR 5/29; MEI 6/5)

In Amman, Israeli FMin. Dir. Gen. Eytan Bentzur, Jordanian FM Fayiz Tarawnah discuss Israeli proposal for conditional withdrawal fr. s. Lebanon. Jordan stresses need for Israel to unconditionally implement UN Res. 425. (JT, al-Quds, al-Ra'i 5/25 in WNC 5/27)

In Cairo, Pres. Mubarak briefs Arafat on his trip to France. Arafat then heads to Saudi Arabia to discuss possible Arab summit. (MENA 5/24, RE 5/26 in WNC 5/27)

Syria asks Iran's help in constructing steel mills. Both countries agree to expand cultural, art exchanges to pave way for closer bilateral relations. (IRNA 5/24, 5/25 in WNC 5/27)

In Damascus, Hamas's Shaykh Yasin meets with Pres. Hafiz al-Asad. (AFP, al-Majd 5/25 in WNC 5/27) (see 5/23)

1st Lebanese municipal elections since 1963 begin. Elections are held on 4 consecutive Sundays. (RL 5/25, 5/26 in WNC 5/27; MM 5/26; al-Safir 5/27 in WNC 6/1; WP 6/1; MEI 6/5)

In Cairo, Mubarak adviser Baz is briefed by Israeli Cabinet Secy. Nave, Netanyahu adviser Uzi Arad on Netanyahu's mtg. with Secy. of State Albright and, separately, by PA Local Government M Erakat on Arafat's mtg. with Albright. Erakat then heads to Amman to brief Jordanian FM Tarawnah. (JTV, MENA, RE 2/2 in WNC 2/4; IGPO 2/3)

In Damascus, EU special envoy Moratinos, Syrian FM Shara` discuss peace process. (SATN 2/2 in WNC 2/4)

Palestinian Nasir al-Hurub dies in PA custody just hours after his arrest. He is at least the 16th Palestinian to die in PA custody. (LAW 2/3; WT 2/4; MEI, PR 2/13)

Palestinian clashes with IDF continue at entrance to Bethlehem. (NYT 2/3)

After 7 hrs. of talks with Secy. of State Albright, Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Abdallah agrees only to say that if the U.S. strikes Iraq, it would be Saddam Hussein's fault. (MM, NYT, WP 2/3; MEI 2/13)

UN Secy. Gen. Annan asks the UNSC to raise to $5.2 b. fr. $2 b. the amount of oil Iraq is allowed to sell in the next 6 mos. of the oil-for-food program. (NYT 2/8) (see 1/31)

UN extends mandate of UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) for 6 mos. (RL 2/2 in WNC 2/4)

Arafat arrives in Washington, meets with Secy. of State Albright, calls on U.S. to pressure Israel to fulfill withdrawal agmts. as outlined in Oslo accords. (MM, NYT, WP, WT 1/22)

American Jewish leaders (fr. such groups as American Jewish Congress, Anti-Defamation League) criticize Netanyahu for courting Christian Right. Netanyahu gives interview to Pat Robertson's Christian Broadcasting Network. (WP 1/22; MM 1/26) (see 1/19)

In Mecca, Jordan's King Hussein, Saudi Arabia's King Fahd discuss joint efforts to support the peace process. King Hussein is in Saudi Arabia to perform the lesser pilgrimage (al-`Umra). (RJ 1/21 in WNC 1/23; `Ukaz [Jiddah] 1/22 in WNC 1/27)

Dir. Gen. of the Israeli Cabinet Ariel Shomir travels to Cairo to deliver a letter fr. Pres. Weizman to Egypt's Pres. Mubarak. (MENA 1/21 in WNC 1/23)

World Bank secures financing for first export-oriented industrial estate at al-Muntar, Gaza. (World Bank press release 1/21)

IDF begins bulldozing Palestinian land nr. Neve Dalim settlement in Gaza as 1st step to expanding the settlement. (PCHR 1/24)

Jordan receives last installment of U.S. military equipment under the $1-m. 1996 draw-down agmt. (JTV 1/21 in WNC 1/23; al-Ra'i 1/26 in WNC 1/27)

Doha economic summit opens. Only 6 Arab countries (Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Tunisia, Yemen) are among the 66 countries attending. U.S. Secy. of State Madeleine Albright, who originally planned to stay for the whole 3-day conference, attends a few hrs. of the mtg., then leaves for Bahrain, Qatar, Saudi Arabia to discuss Iraq's failure to adhere to UN inspections requirements. (WT 11/16; al-Dustur, SATN 11/16, JT, Radio Qatar, SA 11/17 in WNC 11/19; CSM, MM, NYT, WP 11/17; WT 11/18, 11/19; JT 11/19 in WNC 11/21; MEI 11/21; WT 11/23; JP 11/29; Star 12/4 in WNC 12/9)

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu arrives in Indiana to attend mtg. of the General Assembly of Jewish Federations in Indianapolis, then heads to California for function honoring actor Kirk Douglas. (MM, NYT, WP, WT 11/17; MM 11/18)

In Cairo, PA leader Yasir Arafat briefs Egyptian pres. Husni Mubarak on his talks with U.S. Secy. of State Albright 11/15. (RE 11/16 in WNC 11/19)

Egypt returns its amb. to Qatar. (MENA 11/16 in WNC 11/19) (see 11/7)

Iraq offers to allow American UN Special Commission (UNSCOM) inspectors expelled 11/13 to return, provided UN experts fr. other nations are given equal authority. (NYT, WP, WT 11/17)

150 Palestinians clash with Israel Defense Force (IDF) troops following funeral for boy who was severely injured by IDF 11/11 and died 11/15. (WP 11/17)

Arafat arrives in Cairo to brief Pres. Mubarak on 11/3-6 Washington talks with Israel. (MENA 11/7 in WNC 11/10; MENA 11/8 in WNC 11/12)

Egypt recalls its amb. to Qatar; says amb. is only returning for consultations, will return shortly. (al-Rayah [Doha] 11/8 in WNC 11/12; RE 11/11 in WNC 11/12)

Iranian FM Kamal Kharrazi arrrives in Syria for 2-day visit--the first leg of a regional tour that then will take him to Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, UAE, Oman. (MM 11/7; SANA 11/7 in WNC 11/10)

PM Netanyahu presents "Allon plus" final settlement proposal to his inner cabinet. (IDF Radio 6/4 in WNC 6/5; ITV 6/4, RE, YA 6/6 in WNC 6/9; MM, WT 6/5; ITV, MA, RE 6/5 in WNC 6/6; PR 6/6; MM 6/9; MEI 6/13; JP 6/14)

In Cairo, Arafat, Mubarak, Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Abdullah hold tripartite mtg. on the peace process, Egyptian mediation. (RE 6/4 in WNC 6/5; MM 6/5)

Kuwait's acting PM Shaykh Sabah al-Ahmad al-Sabah says that it is time to renew ties (severed during the 1990+n91 Gulf War) with Jordan, Yemen. (MM 6/5, 6/6; RJ 6/22, al-Dustur 6/23 in WNC 6/24; MM 6/23; SA 7/2 in WNC 7/7)

Based on the 5/24 GCO corruption report, the PA fires Atty. Gen. Khalid al-Kidra. Publicly, Kidra resigns, citing poor health, but is placed under house arrest immediately. (MEI, PR 6/13; JP 6/14; CSM 6/18; JP 6/21; WP 7/30)

IDF storms Bayt Fajjar village nr. Bethlehem, detains 27 Palestinians allegedly connected to Hamas. (ITV 6/4 in WNC 6/5; MA 6/5 in WNC 6/6)

UN Security Council unanimously approves 6-mo. extension to Iraq's oil-for-food deal. (WP 6/5)

4 explosive devises are detonated on a s. Lebanon road, killing 1 Lebanese civilian, wounding 2 others. 1 South Lebanon Army (SLA) mbr. is killed in a separate explosion. (AFP, RL 6 /4 in WNC 6/5)

PM Rabin tells VP Gore Israel will not discuss a Middle East nuclear-free zone until it has peace agmts. with all its neighbors, Iran; hints Israel will not meet 7/1 deadline on elections talks with PA (see 3/9) if Arafat does not prevent incidents like 3/19 shooting, 3/21 truck incident. PA Planning M Shaath says he "never believed that date in the first place." (MM 3/23; QY 3/23 in FBIS 3/23; IDF Radio, QY 3/23, HA 3/24 in FBIS 3/24; MM 3/24; NYT, WP 3/25; MEI 3/31; JP 4/1)

Arafat meets with Pres. Mubarak meet in Cairo to discuss peace process, asks him to relay message to Pres. Clinton regarding impediments to implementing DOP. Arafat then meets with U.S. Foreign Relations Council delegation, discusses economic aid. (MENA 3/23 in FBIS 3/23; MENA, VOP 3/23 in FBIS 3/24)

Syrian FM al-Shara`, Egyptian FM Musa meet in Cairo to discuss Syrian-Israeli negotiations. (MENA 3/23 in FBIS 3/23; SATN 3/23 in FBIS 3/24)

Arab League passes resolution supporting indefinite NPT renewal but saying 22 mbr.-states are free to vote how they will; does not link renewal with Israel's joining NPT. U.S. official says "if the Egyptians were lobbying [against renewal], the Arab League resolution would never have passed." (AFP 3/22, 3/23 in FBIS 3/23; MENA 3/23 in FBIS 3/24; WT 3/31)

Jerusalem Mayor Ehud Olmert says PA has violated Israeli authority over the city by taking control of all 20 Waqf schools (previously run by Jordan). PA funding for schools is part of $27 m. raised by Arafat advisor Husseini fr. Saudi Arabia. Remaining money is slated for Jerusalem housing (see 3/13). (JP 3/24 in FBIS 3/27; JP 4/1; WJW 5/5; JP 5/13)

To date, 93 senators have signed on to Sen. Alfonse D'Amato and Sen. D. Patrick Moynihan's letter, calling on the pres. to move the U.S. embassy in Israel fr. Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. (WJW 3/23) (see 2/3)

IDF, Hizballah exchange fire in s. Lebanon, leaving 1 civilian dead, 1 wounded. (AFP, RL 3/23 in FBIS 3/24)

Israel-PA talks on elections close without progress in Cairo. PA negotiator Local Government M Saeb Erakat gives Israeli delegation 6 proposal papers on international supervision of elections. (IDF Radio, MENA 2/22 in FBIS 2/23; WP 2/23; JP 3/4; MEI 3/17)

PLO Executive Comm. mtg. closes without suspending talks with Israel. Arafat calls for emergency Arab summit, says PLO will send delegations to China, EU, Japan, Russia, U.S. in diplomatic effort to pressure Israel to set date for troop withdrawal, elections. Arafat begins by meeting with Pres. Mubarak, flying to Saudi Arabia to perform lesser hajj, coordinate with King Fahd. (MENA, VOP 2/22 in FBIS 2/22; MENA, VOP 2/22 in FBIS 2/23; CSM, FT, NYT 2/23; MEI 3/3; JP 3/4)

U.S. House Appropriations subcommittee increases Jordan's debt forgiveness fr. $99 m. to $149 m. for its support of peace process. (WT 2/23)

Clinton administration submits draft of FY 1996 budget, incl. $44.2 m. military, economic aid to Jordan. (JT 2/25 in FBIS 2/28)

PA Atty. Gen. Khalid al-Qidra says Palestinian security services are detaining 6 mbrs. of Abu Nidal Organization found in Gaza for "disturbing national security." (QY, VOP 2/22 in FBIS 2/23)

Israeli Labor Bureau says number of foreign workers replacing Palestinians in Israel has reached 70,695--860% more than last yr. PA estimates unemployment in Gaza to be 52%. (NYT, WT 2/22)

IDF says it will open 20 houses in Nablus that were sealed because of security offenses by owners. (QY 2/22 in FBIS 2/23)

2 explosions at bus stop at Beyt Lid junction, Israel, kill 19, wound 65. 2 more later die of wounds, leaving 21 Israelis dead. Islamic Jihad claims responsibility as retribution for murder of Hani Abed 11/2, settlement construction. For 1st time, Israeli Pres. Weizman calls for government to stop talks. Arafat denounces attack. (AFP, IDF Radio, ITV, QPAR, QY, RMC, VOP 1/22, HA, QY 1/23 in FBIS 1/23; CSM, NYT, WP, WT 1/23; ITV, QPAR, VOP 1/23 in FBIS 1/24; SARR, VOP 1/23 in FBIS 1/25; WJW 1/26; JP 1/28; WJW 2/2; MEI 2/3; WP 2/5)

PM Rabin calls emergency cabinet mtg. to discuss explosions at Beyt Lid; delays release of Palestinian prisoners, opening of safe passage btwn. Gaza, Jericho; announces Palestinians will be barred fr. entering Israel for "a number of days"; reiterates idea of national separation (see 10/19). (CSM, NYT, WP, WT 1/23; ITV 1/22, QY, VOP 1/23 in FBIS 1/23; MM 1/23; CSM 1/24)

U.S. Secy. of State Christopher calls Syrian FM al-Shara`, demands Syria stop providing safe haven to "terrorists," esp. Islamic Jihad leader Fathi Shiqaqi. Shiqaqi issues statement "reminding" U.S. he is in Syria only because Israel deported him. (MM 1/23; NYT, WT 1/24)

PA, Egypt, Jordan hold mtg. in Cairo to coordinate stance on 1967 refugees, discuss definition of "refugee" and requirements for right of return in preparation for negotiations with Israel. (MENA 1/22 in FBIS 1/24)

Multilateral talks steering comm. opens 2-day session in Cairo to discuss accomplishments of 5 working groups. Delegations fr. Egypt, Jordan, PA, Israel, Norway, Saudi Arabia, Canada, Japan, EU, U.S., Russia attend. (MENA 1/22, 1/23 in FBIS 1/23; RE 1/23 in FBIS 1/24)

PA Economics M Qurai` leads PA delegation to Amman for talks on bilateral relation with Jordanians in advance of Arafat visit 1/25. (JTV, RJ 1/22 in FBIS 1/23)

PM Rabin holds cabinet mtg. on settlement issue; creates comm. of 6 cabinet Ms, headed by him, to approve all housing plans for o.t., incl. privately financed construction. Building will be suspended until comm. meets later in wk. (IGPO, ITV 1/22 in FBIS 1/23; NYT 1/23; JP 1/28)

Israeli Dep. FM Beilin meets with Egyptian Pres. Mubarak in Cairo to discuss bilateral relations and NPT. (MENA 1/22 in FBIS 1/23; MM 1/23; WT 1/25)

Hizballah's political chief Shaykh Hassan Nasrallah states for 1st time that all 6 Israeli MIAs are dead. Israel asserts air force navigator Ron Arad is still alive. (RL 1/23 in FBIS 1/25; WT 1/24)

PLO Chmn. Arafat holds mtgs. in Cairo with Egyptian Pres. Mubarak, FM Musa, and other officials to discuss progress of talks with Israel. Arafat then departs for Saudi Arabia for 'umra pilgrimage, mtg. with King Fahd. (MENA, SPA 1/23 in FBIS 1/24)

Napthali Lau-Lavie, aide to then-DM Moshe Dayan, says in memoirs King Hussein of Jordan warned Israeli PM Golda Meir of Syrian offensive deployment 11 days before start of '73 Arab-Israeli war. (WT 1/24; NYT 1/28)

Mukhtar of Sanniriya, nr. Tulkarm in West Bank, killed by masked gunman for collaboration with occupation. (Qol Yisra'el 1/23 in FBIS 1/25)

PLO Chmn. Arafat meets in Tunis with U.S. State Dept. official Dennis Ross, NSC official Martin Indyk, then flies to Cairo for meetings with Egyptian Pres. Mubarak, American Jewish Congress trustees seeking end to Arab boycott of Israel. Ross proceeds to Amman for talks with Jordanian officials. (Radio Jordan 10/19 in FBIS 10/20; WP 10/21)

Syria, Saudi Arabia issue joint statement in Riyadh on peace process, saying "'just and comprehensive" settlement only achievable with Israel's "full withdrawal from all the occupied Arab territories," including Golan. (MM 10/10)

Israel frees Salim Husayn al-Zrai, 50, held in prison 23 years. Sentenced to life imprisonment in 1970 for infiltration attempt, Fateh activist released because of PLO adherence to its 9/13 commitment not to attack Israel. Release of this longest-held Palestinian prisoner of Israel interpreted as indicating future mass release of Palestinian prisoners. (CSM, NYT 10/20)

Israeli defense officials announce failure of 10/14 test of U.S.-funded Arrow missile. Another test in August also failed, and the GAO issued a report that month criticizing Israeli management of the program (see 10/23). (WT 10/20)

Likud Central Comm. meets in Tel Aviv to consider plans by Binyamin Netanyahu, Ariel Sharon, and Meir Shitreet on autonomy schemes alternative to DoP. (MM 10/19)

Sec. Baker says that decision by Saudi Arabia and 5 other Gulf states to send observers to potential Middle East peace negotiations would lead to direct talks with Israel and thus "break at least one major taboo" of the Arab-Israeli conflict [WP, NYT, LAT 5/12; MEM 5/13].

First wave of Kuwait's 400,000 exiled citizens return home, nine months after Iraq's invasion [NYT, WP, LAT S/12; MEM 5/13].

EC indicates that it still hopes for full role as cosponsor of any Middle East peace conference [NYT 5/12].

Soviet F.M. Bessmertnykh meets in Cairo with Pres. Mubarak and Sec. Baker [MENA, CDS 5/11 in FBIS 5/13].

In speech, Yasir Arafat criticizes U.S. Middle East peace efforts, says U.S. is trying to ignore Jerusalem issue [AVP 5/13 in FBIS 5/141.

After meetings with Pres. Mubarak in Cairo, Sec. Baker arrives in Jeddah; says he is trying to organize 2-phase peace conference, with Israel and its bordering Arab states negotiating their differences in main talks. In 2d phase, Israel and other Arab nations would discuss regional issues [NYT, MEM 4/22; MENA, RIDS 4/21 in FBIS 4/22].

Saudi Arabia confirms that it will not take part in any Middle East peace conference with Israel, and there are growing signs that Arab gov'ts. want to limit negotiations with Israel to only Palestinian problem [WP, LAT 4/22].

PLO Central Council - the link between PLO Exec. Committee and PNC - opens meetings in Tunis to assess repercussions of Gulf war of PLO's relations with Arab and European states (cf. 4/23) [MEM 4/23; TDS 4/22 in FBIS 4/22; AVP 4/22, TDS 4/23 in FBIS 4/23]

Construction of new settlement, Talmon Bet, outside Ramallah, is completed allowing settlers to begin to move in (cf. 4/23) [HAA 4/23 in FBIS 4/23].

U.S. ambassador to UN Thomas Pickering tells Jewish group in New York that Kuwait has agreed to stop participating in Arab League boycott of U.S. firms that do business with Israel, at least during reconstruction of the emirate [MEM 4/23; CSM 4/24].

Israeli soldiers shoot dead 2 Palestinian fighters who had cut through Lebanon border fence; in Damascus, Fateh Uprising group claims responsibility [MEM 4/22; NYT 4/23; JDS 4/22 in FBIS 4/22].

Iraq's Revolutionary Command Council issues statement allowing all Soviet citizens to leave Iraq providing Soviet gov't. assumes responsibility for breaching worker contracts [MEM 12/4; NYT, LAT, WT, WP, CSM 12/5; INA 12/4 in FBIS 12/4].

After meeting in Cairo with Saudi and Syrian F.M.s, Pres. Mubarak urges creation of new Arab alliance grouping Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Syria as a "foundation to serve the Arab people." Tripartite statement is also issued. King Hussein of Jordan and Vice Pres. al-Beedh of Yemen fly to Baghdad to meet with Saddam Hussein and Yasir Arafat [MENA 12/4 in FBIS 12/5; NYT, LAT, MEM 12/5; WP 12/6; AVP 12/6 in FBIS 12/7; MET 12/18].

Kuwait's ambassador to U.S. says Bush admin. has assured his gov't.-in-exile that U.S. would make "absolutely no concessions" when it meets with Iraqi officials [NYT 12/5].

New York Newsday reports Kach party members mailed to a television reporter a "hit list," threatening lives of at least 8 supporters of Palestinian rights, including M.T. Mehdi, Arthur Hertzberg, Rashid Khalidi, Edward Said, and Anthony Lewis. Threats are aimed at avenging assassination of Kach founder Meir Kahane [WT, WP, MEM 12/5].

In Brussels, 12-country EC agrees that It- aly, current holder of EC presidency, could hold talks with Iraqi F.M. Aziz if Aziz first meets with Pres. Bush [MEM 12/5].

Responding to growing fear over rash of Palestinian knife attacks on Israelis, police broaden surveillance of Arab workers in Israel with spot check searches and new roadblocks along W. Bank [NYT, MEM 12/5].

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. Baker says U.S. will release $400 million in loan guarantees for housing Soviet Jewish immigrants as a result of Israeli assurances [JDS 10/2 in FBIS 10/3; NYT, LAT, WP, MEM 10/3].

Joint resolution expressing Congress' approval of Pres. Bush's handling of Gulf crisis passes Senate by vote of 96-3 [WP, LAT, NYT, WT 10/3].

Soviet Union complains Iraq is delaying exit visas for Soviet specialists whose contracts have expired and who want to return home [LAT 10/3].

Senate Appropriations subcommittee on foreign operations approves admin. proposal to forgive Egypt's $7 billion military debt; also authorizes Israel to redirect up to $200 million of U.S. economic assistance to "defense purposes" during the Gulf crisis [CDS 10/3 in FBIS 10/5; WP 10/3].

Chief of Soviet General Staff, Gen. Mikhail A. Moiseyev, says economic sanctions against Iraq are working and that no force should be used in Gulf unless it is approved by the UN [NYT 10/3].

Addressing UN Gen. Assembly, Saudi F.M. Prince Saud al-Faisal urges Iraq to leave Kuwait in order to strengthen rights of Palestinians [NYT, MEM 10/3].

Bethlehem University reopens, becoming the 1st university to open after 30 months [IDF 10/2 in FBIS 10/2].

Japanese P.M. Toshiki Kaifu arrives in Cairo for meeting with Pres. Mubarak [MENA 10/2 in FBIS 10/3; WT 10/3].

IDF troops shoot dead 3 W. Bank Palestinians, another dies from wounds received last week, in one of the highest single-day death tolls in recent months [MEM 10/3].

Jordan reopens its borders to Gulf-bound trucks; ban had interrupted flow of Lebanese, Syrian, and Turkish produce and meat to Gulf states. Jordan says it lifted ban to "test the good intentions" of Saudi gov't, implying ban would be reimposed if trucks were not given passage through Saudi Arabia; Saudis claim Jordan "caved in" to Syrian pressure [MEM 10/3]. 

Following talks with Sec. Baker, Kuwaiti Emir announces Kuwait's intention to provide $5 billion during 1990 to U.S. and Gulf states' military and economic campaign against Iraq [LAT, NYT, WP 9/8; MET 9/18]; New York Times reports that with other Gulf contributions and money raised by Treasury Sec. Brady on his tour, the sum "should not only cover the costs of America's involvement in the Gulf, but may even produce a profit for the Treasury" [NYT 9/8].

Sec. Baker flies to Abu Dhabi to meet with UAE Pres. Shaykh Ziyad, then to Cairo for meeting with Pres. Mubarak [MENA 9/7 in FBIS 9/10].

EC ministers meeting in Rome agree to contribute financially to U.S. plan to help Middle East countries hurt by trade embargo against Iraq, but decline to provide direct fi- nancial support for military buildup [LAT 9/8; MEM 9/10].

Dropping its longstanding objection to Soviet military presence in Middle East, U.S. says it would be "useful" for Soviets to contribute ground troops to multinational force in Saudi Arabia [NYT, LAT, WP 9/8].

Fighting between Fateh troops and supporters of Abu Nidal's Fateh Revolutionary Council claims at least 25 lives near Sidon, Lebanon [LAT, NYT, WP 9/8].

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].

Iraqi occupation authorities order 6,500 American and British citizens in Kuwait to assemble at 2 hotels in Kuwait City [NYT, WP 8/17].

Pentagon announces U.S. naval forces will begin "intercepting" commercial shipping to or from Iraq and Kuwait to enforce UN sanctions [WP 8/17].

King Hussein of Jordan meets with Pres. Bush in Kennebunkport, Maine to discuss Gulf crisis [MEM 8/16; ADS 8/17 in FBIS 8/17; NYT, WP 8/17].

"Troika" foreign ministers from Italy, Luxembourg, and Ireland arrive in Amman and meet with Crown Prince Hasan to discuss crisis [ADS 8/16 in FBIS 8/17].

2d contingent of Egyptian military forces leaves Cairo for Saudi Arabia [MENA 8/16 in FBIS 8/16].

Special UNLU "Leaflet No. 1-the U.S. Invasion of Arab Lands" is distributed; it expresses unequivocal support for Iraq and attacks Pres. Mubarak [YA 8/17 in FBIS 8/17].

Hundreds of Palestinians hold pro-Iraq demonstration in Nablus; police disperse crowd with tear gas and rubber bullets [MEM 8/16; JDS 8/16 in FBIS 8/17]; fearing political repercussions, PLO leadership is seen as trying to distance itself from Iraq, but has been unable to ignore growing grassroots support of Palestinians for Saddam Hussein [WP 8/17].

Contradicting earlier Egyptian Muslim Brotherhood statement, group's leader Muhammad Hamid Abunnasar issues communique denouncing Iraqi invasion of Kuwait and calling for return of Kuwait's "legitimate gov't." [MEM 8/17]. 

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: D.M. Yitzhaq Rabin announces Fateh has refrained from attacking Israeli positions [WP 3/29].

Arab World: Saudi Arabia's King Fahd and Egypt's Pres. Mubarak meet in Egypt, discuss Middle East peace, bilateral relations [FBIS 3/29]. Chedli Klibi is reelected chairman of Arab League for 3rd 5-year term [FBIS 3/29]. PLO Executive Committee nominates Arafat to be president of State of Palestine [FBIS 3/29]. In Cairo, Arafat meets with leaders of Muslim Brotherhood [FBIS 4/5].

Other Countries: French Pres. Mitterand announces he will meet with PLO chairman Arafat [FBIS 3/29, FJ 4/3].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: 19-year-old Palestinian from Salim dies from wounds received 3/13 [FJ 4/3]. At least 10 Palestinians are injured during clashes in O.T. In Balata 3 women are treated after receiving cut wounds on the head during clashes with troops [FBIS 3/29].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Jerusalem Post reports settler magazine Aleph Yud carries call for settlers to "prepare for civil war" [JP 11/4; JTA 11/6]. Knesset House Committee unanimously agrees to continue preparing amendment to house rules which would prevent introduction of racist or discriminatory legislation [JP 11/5]. Education Ministry orders youth weekly Hamtzan be barred from distribution in high schools after attorney general rules an article in it may constitute call to insurrection; article argues for need for "civil war for the sake of peace" [JP 11/10]. Two thousand demonstrators outside Knesset rally in favor of bill against racism [JP 11/5].

Arab World: Yasir Arafat arrives in Cairo for talks with Pres. Mubarak [NYT 11/5]. Saudi Arabia denies Israeli claims made before UN that Saudi Arabia exports oil to S. Africa, states Saudi Arabia is firmly committed to total embargo against S. Africa [JC 11/4].

Other Countries: Washington Post reports pro-Israel PACs in U.S. gave more money to Republicans than Democrats in first 6 months of this year, a sharp break from previous contribution pattems [WP 11/4].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Bomb explodes in Haifa; no injuries [JTA 11/5]. Another bomb goes off in Ashkelon; no casualties [JTA 11/5].

Arab World: Suicide bomber 'Amir al-Aathar, 24, drives into SLA post in security zone, killing at least 3 in 2nd such attack in 24 hours; Syrian Social Nationalist party claims responsibility [BG 11/5].

Political Responses:

Palestinians/ Lebanese: Leaflets circulated in Damascus by dissident Fateh military officers criticize Arafat for intending to withdraw PLO forces from Lebanon, call for committee to supervise finances; Arafat, in Tripoli, says no Arab regime with its money or arms can confront the Palestinian revolution; Fateh Executive Committee places all PLO units in Lebanon under command of Gen. Ahmed Afani, orders dissident officers into unit under Arafat's direct command, plans to call full scale congress.

Arab Governments: Syria criticizes US over decision to implement sale of F-16s to Israel; Syrian envoy travels to Saudi Arabia; President Mubarak meets special envoy Habib in Cairo.