The Palestine Chronology

PA says that a protocol on further redeployment, 2 U.S. letters of assurance will be attached to a Hebron agmt. Details still have to be worked out. (RMC 12/28 in WNC 12/31; JP 1/4)

Islamic University of Hebron reopens. (NYT, WT 12/29) (see 12/24)

At the 11th session of the Turkish-Iraqi Economic Comm., the 2 countries sign an agmt. to promote bilateral cooperation in industry, trade. (INA 12/28 in WNC 12/31) (see 12/24)

At Erez crossing, Arafat, Netanyahu hold their longest face-to-face mtg. to date to try to final issues preventing a Hebron deal. (IDF Radio, RMC 12/24 in WNC 12/27; NYT, WP, WT 12/25; CSM 12/27; MA 12/27 in WNC 12/30; JP 1/4)

In Hurghada, Egypt, Pres. Mubarak discusses PA-Israeli talks with Israeli DM Mordechai. (RE 12/24 in WNC 12/27; WT 12/25; JP 1/4)

Israel permits Islamic University of Hebron, which was closed in 3/96, to reopen within 2 days; lifts curfew on Hebron; reopens to Palestinian traffic a road in Gaza that runs by Netzarim settlement. (NYT 12/25; CSM, WT 12/27; JP 1/4) (see 11/24)

Iraqi oil M arrives in Turkey for 4-day visit to discuss boosting bilateral trade in light of the oil-for-food deal. (INA 12/24 in WNC 12/27; INA 12/26, 12/27 in WNC 12/30) (see 12/9)

In s. Lebanon, roadside bomb explodes, killing 2 mbrs. of the IDF's Egoz unit, wounding 2. Hizballah claims responsibility. In separate incident in s. Lebanon, a Lebanese child is wounded by IDF shelling. (ITV, QY, RL 12/24, ITV 12/25 in WNC 12/27; WP 12/25; WJW 1/23) (see 12/14)

U.S. special envoy Ross arrives in Israel, meets with PM Netanyahu, heads to Gaza for talks with Arafat. (ITV 12/21 in WNC 12/24; NYT, WP, WT 12/22; NYT 12/23; JP 12/28)

In Hebron, a scuffle btwn. settlers, Palestinian children escalates into a melee btwn. 100s of settlers, Palestinians. IDF soldiers intervene; hit, kick, punch Palestinians, leaving 1 unconscious; arrests 2 Palestinians. (NYT, WP, WT 12/22; JP 12/28)

A group of Christian churches, nongovernmental organizations, individuals forming the coalition of Churches for Middle East Peace takes out an ad in the NYT calling for a shared Jerusalem, assuring the rights of all religions in the city. (NYT 12/21)

Ignoring U.S. appeals (see 12/20), Turkey, Iran sign 7 trade accords, granting each other most favored nation trading status, increasing the annual volume of trade btwn. the countries fr. $960 m. to $2 b., establishing a joint chamber of commerce, outlining maritime cooperation. Agmts. were drafted by the joint economic commission 12/16. (NYT, WP, WT 12/22; IRNA, VIRI 12/22, IRNA 12/23 in WNC 12/24; CSM, 12/24; WT 12/25)

In Cairo, Arafat briefs Pres. Mubarak on talks with Israel. (WT 12/22; WJW 12/26)

Israel stops entry of a 40-ft. pine tree donated to the PA by Finland for the Christmas celebrations in Bethlehem (see 12/10), saying the tree could be diseased, "could affect all the trees in Israel." (PR 2/20; CSM 12/23)

U.S. "strongly advises" Turkey not to improve its relations with Iran. (WP, WT 12/22) (see 12/19)

PM Netanyahu hold discussions with the FM, DM, national infrastructure M, defense officials regarding a document submitted several days ago by U.S. Amb. Indyk. The document constitutes a compromise document on Hebron, incorporating understandings reached so far btwn. the Israel, the PA; including clauses relating to continued implementation of Oslo, incl. Israeli commitment to a timetable for redeployment. Netanyahu says he has no intention of adhering to a timetable. (YA 12/19 in WNC 12/20)

Secy. of State Christopher says that special envoy Ross will soon return to the Middle East to "reenergize" the PA-Israeli talks; claims that the Israelis have made some concessions (unspecified) and it is time for the PA to reciprocate. PA denies Israel has made concessions. (NYT 12/20)

Israel expresses concern that the PA will expand the Gaza port beyond the agreed upon plans to create a commercial, rather than a fishing, port, in which case Israel would have no control over entering and departing craft. (MA 12/20 in WNC 12/23)

Arafat has private audience with the Pope at the Vatican. (WT 12/20)

Israeli FM Levy meets with King Hussein, PM Kabariti in Jordan. Levy, who is the 1st Israeli official to visit since the 9/24 tunnel opening, inaugurates the new Israeli embassy in the Rabiyya neighborhood of Amman. On arrival, He is met at the airport by a subcabinet-level official. (RJ 12/19 in WNC 12/20; JTV, RJ 12/19 in WNC 12/23; JP 12/28)

YESHA settlers' council ends 2-day convention; announces 3 "red lines" which, if crossed, will put an end to their support for Netanyahu. Action will be taken if Netanyahu does not go ahead with construction of housing units in East Jerusalem, Hebron; implements further redeployment fr. area C; does not allow "extensive and comprehensive" settlement. (IDF Radio 12/19 in WNC 12/23)

In Tripoli, Lebanon, an explosive device detonates nr. the regional Syrian intelligence headquarters, injuring 2 Syrian officers. Syria says that a civil-war era bomb detonator was accidentally burned with other trash, exploded. (MM 12/19; RL 12/19 in WNC 12/20; al-Sharq al-Awsat 12/19 in WNC 12/23; MA 12/22 in WNC 12/24) (see 12/18)

Iran's Pres. Ali Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani, his 240-mbr. delegation begin 3-day visit to Turkey. Iran and Turkey will discuss economic, defense cooperation. (MM 12/19; Milliyet [Istanbul], VIRI 12/19, IRNA, VIRI 12/20 in WNC 12/23; MM 12/20; IRNA 12/20, VIRI 12/21, 12/22 in WNC 12/24)

Israeli, PA talks on Hebron resume for 1st time in 9 days. (ITV 12/16 in WNC 12/18; PR 12/20)

PA negotiator Erakat, Netanyahu adviser Molho meet briefly in Jerusalem to try to ease tensions that have built up since Israel's 12/13 decision to restore settler benefits. (CSM, WP, WT 12/17) (see 12/5)

Pres. Clinton criticizes Israel for planning to expand Jewish settlements in the West Bank, reinstating benefits to West Bank settlers. (MM, NYT, WP, WT 12/17; CSM, MM 12/18; WJW 12/19; IDF Radio, YA 12/19 in WNC 12/23; MEI 12/20; JP 12/28) (see 12/13)

IDF unseals Ramallah. (PR 12/20) (see 12/11)

In Washington, representatives of 29 nations (incl. Arab states, Brazil, Canada, the EU, Japan, the U.S.) pledge $3.2 b. toward the post-civil war reconstruction of Lebanon. The U.S. promises $20 m. over several yrs. (incl. $12 m. next yr. for education, environment). EU states pledge $1.5 b. (MM 12/16; RL 12/16 in WNC 12/17; MM, WP, WT 12/17; RL 12/17 in WNC 12/18; MM 12/18; al-Safir 12/18 in WNC 12/23; MEI 12/20; RL 12/23 in WNC 12/24; WJW 12/26; al-Safir 1/14 in WNC 1/17; CSM 1/15)

In Ankara, the 13th Iranian-Turkish joint economic commission session opens. (IRNA 12/16 in WNC 12/18, 12/19; MM 12/19)

ILMG meets at Naqura to consider a complaint by Israel regarding the launching of rockets into n. Israel 12/13. Although the Lebanese delegation does not believe katayushas actually were fired, the group concludes that at least 1 rocket, launched by an unknown party, landed in n. Israel. (RL 12/16 in WNC 12/17; RL 12/16 in WNC 12/18; RL 12/17 in WNC 12/19; MM 12/19; IGPO 12/26)

Israel says that, under a Hebron deal, PA policemen may operate in H2 as part of joint mobile units. (Hatzofe 12/10 in WNC 12/11)

Jordanian Information M Marwan Mu`ashir begins 5-day trip to Tel Aviv, emphasizes Jordan's concern over Israeli settlement policy. (JT 12/10 in WNC 12/11; IDF Radio 12/11 in WNC 12/12; MEI 12/20)

The U.S. consul general says that Israel is threatening to revoke residency rights of Palestinian-Americans living in Jerusalem unless they give up their U.S. passports. The U.S. protests, says it knows of 60 cases when Israelis threatened Americans with the loss of their Jerusalem IDs. (WP 12/10; PR 12/20; JP 12/21)

Israel grants special entry permits to 120 Palestinian journalists accredited by the IGPO. (IGPO 12/10 in WNC 12/12)

PA allocates only $40,000 of the $70,000 necessary to stage the annual Christmas celebrations in Bethlehem. (WT 12/11; WT 12/23; PR 12/20)

In Beirut, EU special envoy Moratinos meets with Lebanese FM Buwayz. (RL 12/10 in WNC 12/11; MEI 1/24)

Iraq says it will give Turkey priority in exporting Iraqi oil now that the UN oil-for-food deal has been implemented. (INA 12/10 in WNC 12/11) (see 12/9)

ILMG continues discussions begun 12/9. (RMC 12/10 in WNC 12/11; RL 12/10 in WNC 12/12)

PA demands that Israel provide dates for further redeployment in the West Bank, release of Palestinian prisoners along with a Hebron protocol; open the central market and al-Shuhada street in Hebron; allow PA police in Hebron joint patrol units to carry same weapons as the IDF; eliminate the term "hot pursuit" fr. any Hebron deal. (IDF Radio 12/8 in WNC 12/10)

In Cairo, Arafat briefs Mubarak on talks with Israel. (WT 12/7; RE 12/7 in WNC 12/10; PR 12/13)

In Gaza, Arafat briefs the Egyptian, Jordanian, PA delegations to the quadripartite refugee comm. on status of negotiations with Israel in preparation for full comm. mtg. 12/8. (PR 12/12)

Israeli police arrest Hebron settler leader Noam Arnon over a disturbance inside the Tomb of the Patriarchs/al-Ibrahimi Mosque. (NYT 12/10)

Jordan, Turkey begin discussing details of implementing their military agmt., signed a decade ago; focus on technical exchanges, joint training. (al-Ra'i 12/7 in WNC 12/10)

Roadside bomb explodes in s. Lebanon, killing 1 IDF soldier, wounding 2. Hizballah takes responsibility. Subsequent Israeli shelling wounds 6 civilians, incl. 1 child. (RL 12/7, 12/8 in WNC 12/10; NYT, WP 12/8; MM 12/9, 12/13)

After Israeli jurists confirm that the existing Oslo agmts. give Israel overriding responsibility for security in the West Bank and Gaza that would permit the IDF to reenter any PA area, Israel drops its demand for written guarantees fr. the PA detailing IDF hot pursuit rights in Hebron, a key sticking point of the talks. (MM 11/27; IDF Radio 11/27 in WNC 11/29; MM 11/28; IDF Radio 11/28 in WNC 12/2; CSM, MM 11/29)

JT reports that the PLO is setting up a new "superministry" that will replace the Tunis-based Department of Returnees Affairs and will have headquarters in Gaza and offices in Amman, Gaza, West Bank to deal with issues concerning Palestinian refugees. The main objectives of the superministry, which will not be tied to any PA ministry, are political mobilization of the refugees; improvement of refugees' living conditions; establishment and further development of bilateral ties with Arab and non-Arab countries, the UNRWA, the Multilateral Working Group on Refugees. (JT 11/27 in WNC 12/2)

Netanyahu adviser Gold arrives in London for talks with the British FMin. on ways of advancing regional cooperation. (IDF Radio 11/27 in WNC 12/2; MM 11/29) (see 12/25)

Israeli Atty. Gen. Mikhael Ben-Ya'ir reports that border police routinely mistreat Palestinians, recommends that officers convicted of abuse be punished more harshly. (WT 11/28) (see 11/26)

Turkey announces that it has canceled its purchase of Cobra helicopters fr. the U.S., gives the U.S. no explanation. (ANATOLIA 11/27 in WNC 11/29)

Israel reinforces troops, equipment in s. Lebanon. Israeli naval vessels detain, search a German ship entering Tyre port. (RL 11/27 in WNC 11/29) (see 11/23)

The Lebanese government passes a law suspending the closure of all unlicensed media outlets, which was set for 11/30 (see 9/17). Under the law, unlicensed outlets may continue to broadcast apolitical news only until they are explicitly denied a license. (al-Nahar 11/28 in WNC 12/4)

Israeli, PA negotiations on Hebron resume in Jericho. (RJ 11/18 in WNC 11/19)

IDF eases closure, allowing 7,000 Palestinians fr. Gaza, 8,000 fr. West Bank into Israel to work, raising the total number of Palestinians allowed into Israel to 50,000. (WT 11/17)

Israel accuses Syria of developing with Russia nerve gas, other chemical weapons. (MM, WT 11/18)

In Ramallah, PA releases 3 Hamas mbrs. fr. jail to mark the 8th anniversary of the Palestine National Council's declaration of independence. (MM 11/18)

Shin Bet announces that it has detained Hamas mbr. Khadar Mubarak, is interrogating him on suspicion that has information that could prevent an attack. The detention is revealed after Mubarak's lawyer files a petition with the High Court, claiming that Mubarak is being tortured. (ITV 11/17 in WNC 11/19) (see 11/14)

PLO delegation led by Political Dept. head Faruq Qaddumi arrives in Beirut for 2-day talks on regional political developments. (RL 11/17, 11/19 in WNC 11/19)

Turkey inaugurates 2d bridge on the Turkish-Iraqi border at the al-Khubar border post. (Iraqi Television Network 11/17 in WNC 11/19)

Israel, PA agree to raise the level of Hebron talks in a bid to complete negotiations. Israeli chief of staff Shahak and Arafat adviser Abbas are chosen to lead discussions. (MM 11/12, 11/13)

3-day Cairo Economic Summit opens. (IGPO, MM 11/12; RE 11/12 in WNC 11/13; SATN 11/1, MA, RJ 11/13 in WNC 11/14; CSM, NYT, WP, WT 11/13; RJ 11/13 in WNC 11/15; WP, WT 11/14; CSM, MM 11/15; MA 11/15 in WNC 11/15; MM 11/18; MEI 11/22; JP 11/23; WT 12/4)

In Amman, Jordan's PM Kabariti, Turkey's FM Ciller discuss bilateral trade relations, ways of increasing Turkey's influence in the peace process, possibility of Turkey selling Jordan water. Ciller's 2-day trip began 11/11. (RJ 11/12 in WNC 11/13; JT, JTV, RJ 11/12 in WNC 11/14; MM 11/13)

King Hussein grants amnesty to those who took part in the 8/16+n18 bread riots. (RJ 11/12)

In New York, Egypt nominates Butros-Ghali for a 2d term as UN secy. gen., setting the stage for an expected veto by the U.S. (NYT 11/14; MEI 11/22)

In Ankara, PM Erbakan, Iraqi PM Tariq Aziz discuss bilateral relations. (INA 11/12 in WNC 11/13, 11/14)

Netanyahu phones Arafat, says that as part of a Hebron deal Israel is willing to provide an "oral statement" saying that Israel would act to implement remaining aspects of the Oslo II agmt. The PA had requested such assurances be in writing as part of the agmt. (MM 11/11)

In Ankara, Turkey, Iraq hold talks on increasing economic, trade, political ties. (INA 11/11 in WNC 11/13)

UK FM Rifkind proposes establishing an organization in the Middle East for regional security and cooperation modeled after the Organization of Security and Cooperation in Europe. Arab League protests that regional peace must be achieved before such a body could be established. (RE 11/6 in WNC 11/7; MM 11/8)

In Ankara, Turkey's Pres. Demirel, Iranian Oil M Gholam-Reza Aqazadeh discuss timetable for implementing 8/12 gas deal (expected to be completed in 1998), possibility of further expanding energy cooperation. (IRNA 11/4 in WNC 11/6; IRNA 11/6 in WNC 11/8)

In s. Iraq, U.S. jet fires on a 2d missile battery after the site's radar appeared to be targeting it. U.S. Defense Secy. Perry is uncertain if plane was really threatened. Iraq says it has not been aiming at U.S. aircraft. (WP, WT 11/5) (see 11/2)

PISMC draws up a "joint paper," compiling a list of 15 points of contention (reportedly incl. hot pursuit, opening of al-Shuhada Street, type of weapons to be carried by PA police, movement of joint patrols) that have not been solve in the past 3 wks. of talks. (MM 10/23; RJ 10/23 in WNC 10/25; NYT 10/24; IDF Radio 10/24 in WNC 10/25; ITV 10/24 in WNC 10/29)

In Ramallah, French Pres. Chirac becomes 1st foreign head of state to address the PC. Chirac then leaves for Amman to meet with King Hussein. (MM 10/23; JT, JTV, LCI 10/23 in WNC 10/25; CSM, NYT, WP, WT 10/24; MEI 10/25; NYT, WT 10/27; JP 11/2)

Knesset Financing Comm. approves funds needed to complete 2,400 housing units in West Bank settlements whose construction was frozen by the previous Labor government. (ITV 10/23 in WNC 10/25)

Fearing a suicide bombing on the 1-yr. anniversary of the assassination of Islamic Jihad leader Fathi Shiqaqi 10/26, Israel seals the West Bank, Gaza. Israeli police shoot, wound 1 Palestinian who walks away fr. a checkpoint btwn. Ramallah, Jerusalem after refusing to show his ID. (ITV 10/23 in WNC 10/25; WP 10/24; CSM 10/25; PR 11/1)

After a wk. of talks in Turkey, U.S. Asst. Secy. of State Pelletreau announces that the KDP, PUK have agreed in principle to an immediate cease-fire, although their fighting continues in Koi Sanjak. (CSM, NYT, WT 10/24) (see 10/17)

French Pres. Chirac, Syrian Pres. Asad meet in Damascus. The two sign 2 agmts. rescheduling Syrians $350-m. debt to France, providing fresh credit to relaunch economic relations. (SATN 10/20 in WNC 10/22; MEI, MM 10/25)

In Damascus, French FM de Charette, Syrian FM Shara` sign memorandum of understanding, activating agmts. on coordination btwn. higher education institutions, transfer of technology and scientific research, expanding cultural exchanges, launching joint research and development projects. (SATN 10/20 in WNC 10/23)

U.S. evacuates another 500 Iraqis, their families to Turkey. (WP, WT 10/21) (see 10/19)

After another day of talks on Hebron in Taba, PISMC adjourns for 2-day break. Israel says talks make progress on hot pursuit, buffer zone issues. (MM 10/18; HA, QY 10/18 in IL 10/18; RMC 10/18 in WNC 10/22; WT 10/19)

U.S. says that beginning 10/19 some 700 Iraqis linked to the CIA will be evacuated fr. n. Iraq with their families. They will be sent via Turkey to Guam. (WP 10/19) (see 9/12)

After 3 days of continuous talks, ILMG fails to reach decision on 10/12 attack, does not issue statement. Heads of delegations agree to submit reports to their respective FMs. (RL 10/18 in WNC 10/22) (see 10/17) (see 10/15)

In s. Lebanon, 2 SLA mbrs. are killed by roadside bomb. (MM 10/18)

After another day of talks on Hebron in Taba, PISMC adjourns for 2-day break. Israel says talks make progress on hot pursuit, buffer zone issues. (MM 10/18; HA, QY 10/18 in IL 10/18; RMC 10/18 in WNC 10/22; WT 10/19)

U.S. says that beginning 10/19 some 700 Iraqis linked to the CIA will be evacuated fr. n. Iraq with their families. They will be sent via Turkey to Guam. (WP 10/19) (see 9/12)

After 3 days of continuous talks, ILMG fails to reach decision on 10/12 attack, does not issue statement. Heads of delegations agree to submit reports to their respective FMs. (RL 10/18 in WNC 10/22) (see 10/17) (see 10/15)

In s. Lebanon, 2 SLA mbrs. are killed by roadside bomb. (MM 10/18)

At Erez, 2d day of Israeli-PA talks focus Hebron, security; deadlock on issue of redeployment in Hebron, with Israel demanding IDF lookout posts over Arab neighborhoods, buffer zones separating settlers fr. Palestinians, pistols only for PA police, rights hot pursuit into Palestinian areas. (RJ 10/7 in WNC 10/8; al-Quds, ITV, QY 10/7 in WNC 10/10; MM, WT 10/8; QY 10/8 in IL 10/8; WP, WT 10/9; IGPO 10/8 in WNC 10/11; CSM 10/10)

AIPAC heads arrive in Israel on unscheduled visit to warn PM Netanyahu about growing criticisms in Congress of Israeli policy. (ITV 10/7 in WNC 10/10)

Knesset inaugurates al-Haq mosque, a prayer room in the Knesset building for the use of Muslim MKs. (YA 10/11 in IL 10/11; WJW 10/17)

Turkey signs deal with Libya to triple trade btwn. the 2 nations. Libya agrees to pay money owed Turkish contractors (see 8/22). U.S. denounces the agmt. (JANA [Tripoli] 10/7 in WNC 10/8; VIRI 10/7 in WNC 10/10; NYT 10/8; MM 10/9; Anatolia [Ankara] 10/9 in WNC 10/11)

In Mali, Secy. of State Christopher begins "unusually blunt" 5-nation African tour to urge sub-Saharan countries to put up a candidate to replace UN Secy. Gen. Butros-Ghali. It is the 1st trip in 6 yrs. by a secy. of state to sub-Saharan Africa. (NYT, WT 10/8; NYT 10/10, 10/11)

Israel lifts closure on Janin, removes tanks surrounding Tulkarm, says closure will gradually be lifted if clashes do not erupt again. (NYT, WT 10/5)

Hamas issues leaflet fr. Beirut calling for resumption of protests. Gazan Hamas leader Mahmud Zahhar says call should be ignored. PA holds intensive talks with Hamas's West Bank, Gaza representatives to encourage them to refrain fr. taking any actions against Israel. (WP, WT 10/5; al-Ahram [Cairo] 10/6 in WNC 10/15)

Turkish PM Erbakan arrives in Libya for 3-day visit. U.S. criticizes Turkey for visiting a nation that sponsors terrorism. (WT, MM 10/5)

Arafat, Netanyahu end 2-day summit in Washington without resolving their differences, agree to begin nonstop intensive negotiations at Erez 10/6 on disputed issues. (MM 10/2; al-Dustur [Amman], ITV, JTV 10/2, MA, RE 10/3 in WNC 10/4; CSM, MM, NYT, WJW, WP, WT 10/3; RE 10/3 in WNC 10/4; ITV, QPAR, al-Quds, al-Quds al-Arabi, VOA 10/3, al-Ra'i 10/4 in WNC 10/7; MM, WP 10/4; ITV 10/8 in WNC 10/11; PR 10/11; MEI 10/25)

Israeli, PA officers meet to discuss reopening Qarni crossing export of Palestinian goods into Israel. Israel demands that Palestinians at the checkpoint be unarmed. PA refuses. No agmt. is reached. (ITV 10/2 in WNC 10/4)

Anticipating possible failure of Washington talks, IDF moves more troops and heavy weapons, incl. tanks, helicopters, sniper squads, to the outskirts of zone A areas. (YA 10/2 in WNC 10/3; ITV 10/2 in WNC 10/4; WP, WT 10/3; MA 10/4 in WNC 10/7)

In Hebron, IDF fires on Palestinian protesters, killing 1 boy, wounding 2 men. 4 other Palestinians are wounded during protest nr. Halhul. (ITV 10/2 in WNC 10/4; CSM, NYT, WP, WT 10/3)

In Jerusalem, 50,000 Israelis march in support of Netanyahu. (WT 10/3)

Turkey's PM Necmettin Erbakan arrives in Cairo on 1st leg of 6-day regional tour. Meanwhile in Tripoli, Turkish, Libyan delegations begin talks on strengthening bilateral cooperation, with emphasis on economic, industrial issues. (WT 10/2; JANA [Tripoli] 10/3 in WNC 10/4)

Turkey announces plans to increase its electricity purchases from Iran to 3 b. kw/h. (IRNA 10/2 in WNC 10/4)

Lebanon's Council of Ministers grants al-Manar Television, al-Nur Radio temporary exclusion fr. the new media law (see 9/17), allowing them to continue broadcasting news of the resistance. They will both still be banned fr. broadcasting other political news, programs as of 11/30. (RL 10/2 in WNC 10/4)

In s. Lebanon, 2 IDF officers are wounded in clash with Hizballah. (ITV 10/2 in WNC 10/4)

Turkey urges Iraqi Pres. Saddam Hussein to impose his authority over the Kurdish enclave in n. Iraq; say if Hussein could drive the PKK out of n. Iraq, Turkey would drop plans to create a "security zone" there. Though this policy clashes with U.S. attempts to limit Hussein's power in the n., Turkey says it will continue to allow the U.S. to patrol the n. no-fly zone fr. bases in its territory. (NYT 9/21) (see 9/13)

U.S. troops begin arriving in Kuwait. (NYT, WT 9/20)

In Hebron, 400 Palestinians clash with IDF troops, who keep them fr. reopening vegetable market that has been sealed since 1994. (CSM, MM 9/17; PR 9/20)

Shin Bet says that several wks. ago it managed to apprehend a Hizballah mbr. who arrived at Ben-Gurion airport fr. Europe. The alleged Hizballah mbr. is currently being held in a n. Israeli security facility. (MA 9/16 in WNC 9/17)

Kuwait gives approval for 3,300 U.S. troops to deploy in its territory. (MM, NYT, WP 9/17) (see 9/15)

Iranian delegation arrives in Ankara for 13th assembly of the Iran-Turkey security commission. (IRNA 9/16 in WNC 9/19; IRNA 9/22 in WNC 9/27)

Iranian FM Velayati discusses bilateral cooperation with Turkey's Pres. Suleyman Demirel, denounces Turkey's plans to create "security zone" in n. Iraq. (IRNA 9/15 in WNC 9/17; VIRI 9/16 in WNC 9/18)

Kuwait says that, despite U.S. announcements 9/13, it has not given permission for the U.S. to deploy troops in its territory. U.S. Defense Secy. William Perry arrives in the emirate to secure the government's permission. (NYT, WP, WT 9/16; MM 9/17)

Last round of Lebanese elections is held in the Biqa` district. Syrian-backed candidates win 21 of the 23 seats. In the last 2 rounds of elections, Hizballah has won 7 seats, a decline of 1 from the last elections but an improvement over the 1st 3 rounds of voting. (CSM 9/16; RL 9/15, 9/17 in WNC 9/18; MM 9/17; CSM 9/18)

In Izmir, Turkey's PM Erbakan, FM Ciller, Iran's FM Ali Akhbar Velayati discuss bilateral cooperation, proposed Turkish "security zone" in n. Iraq. Turkey asks for Iran's assistance in curbing the PKK. (IRNA 9/15 in WNC 9/17; Sabah [Istanbul] 9/14 in WNC 9/24; Iran News 9/18 in WNC 9/27)

Syrian Economics Min. announces new rules allowing Syrian citizens to deposit foreign currency in Syrian banks without being asked about the origin of the currency. (SARR 9/14 in WNC 9/17)

EU grants Jordan $128 m. toward the kingdom's economic reform program. (JT 9/14 in WNC 9/19)

Egypt says it will host economic summit in Cairo in 11/12-14 as planned. (MM, WP 9/13; al-`Arabi 9/16 in WNC 9/27) (see 8/22)

Acting on a tip (possibly fr. the U.S.), Hong Kong customs impounds Syria-bound, N. Korean cargo shipment marked "finished goods," found to contain heavy artillery (incl. Howitzers, Russian made M-46 field guns). It is legal to ship arms through Hong Kong but illegal to falsely declare goods. (Kong Standard, South China Morning Post 917, 9/18 in WNC 11/12)

Iraq again fires surface-to-air missiles at U.S. warplanes in the expanded s. no-fly zone, causing no damage. U.S. announces it will position stealth bombers at airfields in Kuwait. Turkey agrees to allow 2,500 Iraqi oppositionist transit through Turkey as part of U.S. plan to evacuate its allies fr. the Kurdish enclave, provided none were connected with the CIA, PKK; U.S. says if those sponsored by the CIA can escape fr. Iraq, it will "certainly look sympathetically" on their appeals for asylum. U.S. dispatches 2d aircraft carrier to the region. (MM 9/12; NYT, WP, WSJ 9/13; WP 9/17, 9/18; al-Ahram 9/19 in WNC 9/30; MEI 9/20) (see 9/11)

Hatzofe reports that changes to Oslo II maps were agreed to and signed in 1/96 but have been kept secret. The 5 changes were only of several dozen meters. 3 favored the Israelis: moving the access road for Qedar settlement and the forests west of Ma'ale Adumim fr. zone B to C; moving the Ashkenazi Jewish cemetery of Hebron fr. zone A to C; moving the Ramallah and Bir Nabala oxidation pools, which incl. parts of the land designated for the Psagot-Kokhav Yi'aqov bypass road, fr. zone A to C. 2 changes favored the PA: moving a strip of land n. of Janin fr. zone C to A; expanding the zone B area of Abu-Dis e. to the Israeli municipal boundary of Jerusalem. (Hatzofe 9/12 in WNC 9/16)

In an article in Ma'ariv Youth, Israeli rock singer Aviv Geffen advises his fans to leave Israel in protest over Netanyahu's election as PM, says Israelis should be embarrassed to be represented by the right-wing government. In response, mbrs. of the Israeli broadcast authority call for a ban on his music, politicians fr. Pres. Weizman on down condemn him, 100s of parents cancel their children's subscriptions to the magazine. (WP 9/12; JP 9/21)

Israeli court convicts Yigal and Hagai Amir, Dror Adani on charges of conspiracy to kill PM Rabin. (NYT, WSJ 9/12; JP 9/21)

Iraq fires surface-to-air missiles at U.S. warplanes patrolling the expanded s. no-fly zone, causing no damage. U.S. begins moving stealth bombers into the region for a potential strike against fortified command bunkers, military facilities. Pres. Clinton vows to take military action protect troops if necessary; says U.S. is prepared to airlift 2,000 Kurds, Iraqis who worked for the U.S./CIA into Turkey, but Turkey is reluctant to accept them (see 9/9). (MM 9/11; NYT, WP, WSJ, WT 9/12; Yeni Gunaydin [Istanbul] 9/12 in WNC 9/17; MM 9/13; MEI 9/20) (see 9/10)

Arab League Secy. Gen. Ismat `Abd al-Majid, Turkish amb. to Cairo discuss Turkey's plan for a "security zone" in n. Iraq. The amb. stresses Turkey has no designs on Iraqi territory. `Abd al-Majid emphasizes Arab states' desire to present unified rejection to all attempts to divide Iraq. (RE 9/11 in WNC 9/13) (see 9/10)

In Paris, Israeli FM Levy discusses peace process with Pres. Chirac, FM Hervé de Charette. (France-Inter Radio Network [Paris], ITV 9/10 in WNC 9/12; MM 9/11)

In New York, Israeli PM Netanyahu meets with mbrs. of the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations, visits Lubavitcher Hasidic spiritual leader Rebbe Menachem Schneerson's grave. (ITV 9/10 in WNC 9/12; MM 9/11; MA 9/11 in WNC 9/13; WJW 9/12, 9/19)

In implementation of cabinet decision 8/2, IDF Central Commander Maj. Gen Uzi Dayan signs order setting procedures for authorization of settlement construction, expansion in the West Bank, Gaza. The order requires local planning comms. to obtain permission of DM Yitzhak Mordechai at every stage of most construction projects. Settlers term procedures needlessly cumbersome. (HA 9/11 in IL 9/11)

Israel's Prime Minster's Office announces new "Israel 2000" program intended to make development towns and regions economically self-sufficient. Program will be implemented in 19 communities. Residents will be given housing subsidies, loans, stipends; municipal boundaries of these locations will be expanded. (HA 9/11 in IL 9/11)

In Hebron, Jewish settlers break into 4 Palestinians stores, confiscate their goods, occupy them. The IDF sealed the stores in the city center after the al-Ibrahimi mosque massacre in 2/94. (PR 9/20)

South Africa says it will not renew existing defense, economic contracts with Israel; though relations remain good, South Africa is adjusting to a peacetime domestic economy. (IDF Radio 9/10 in WNC 9/12)

Jordanian officials release al-Ahali editor Usama al-Rantisi after he is charged with "publishing material deemed as instigating public disorder" during the 8/16-17 riots. The 4 al-Bilad journalists detained 8/20, 1 fr. al-Majd, another fr. al-Aswaq are still in custody awaiting trial. ASB Secy. Gen. Tayseer Homsi is arrested for alleged involvement in the riots. (MM 9/11; JT 9/11 in WNC 9/12)

Jordanian Muslim Brotherhood (JMB) denounces self-described "West Bank JMB official" Sa'id Bilal for requesting that the PA license, and thereby legalize, JMB activities in the self-rule areas; says Bilal is not a JMB mbr. Hamas concurs, claims attempts to form a JMB branch in the territories is an attempt by the PA to divide the Islamist opposition. (al-Ra'i 9/10 in WNC 9/12; VIRI 9/16 in WNC 9/18)

U.S. publicly redefines its strategic interest in Iraq for the 1st time in 5 yrs., saying it is interested solely in containing Saddam Hussein's military operations nr. the Kuwaiti, Saudi oil fields, rather than curbing his influence in n. Iraq and assuring humanitarian aid to the Kurds. (NYT, WP 9/11) (see 9/9)

Iraqi delegation arrives in Ankara for 2 days of talks with PM Erbakan, FM Ciller regarding bilateral relations, establishment of "security zone" in n. Iraq. Iraq proposes instead that Turkey conclude a border security arrangement with the KDP to prevent PKK mbrs. fr. crossing into Turkey. (MM 9/10; INA [Baghdad], TDN 9/11 in WNC 9/13; Milliyet [Istanbul] 9/12 in WNC 9/17 MEI 9/20) (see 9/6)

Turkey gives 3 guarantees to U.S. concerning "security zone" it plans for n. Iraq (see 9/5): it will be temporary, bases will not be established, Turkey will not broaden the zone it establishes. U.S. Secy. of Defense William Perry says that the U.S. will support Turkey on the basis of these assurances. FM Ciller says zone is a priority, not simply to keep out PKK but also to prevent subversion fr. Iran, Iraq, Syria. (MM 9/6; Hurriyet [Istanbul], Milliyet [Istanbul], TDN 9/7, Turkiye [Istanbul] 9/8 in WNC 9/12; MEI 9/20)

As right-wing Jews stunned by Netanyahu-Arafat mtg. protest outside the PM's office, Netanyahu faces hecklers in the Knesset who also oppose the mtg.; tells MKs meeting Arafat "wasn't easy" but he will fire fr. his cabinet any M who can't accept it; also announces he has directed the Finance Ministry to permit the sale, occupation of 3,000 housing units in West Bank settlements kept vacant by the Labor government since 1992. (MM 9/5; ITV 9/5 in WNC 9/9, WNC 9/10; MM, NYT, WP, WT 9/6; JT 9/8 in WNC 9/10; YA 9/8 in WNC 9/12; WJW 9/12; JP 9/14)

Jordanian government announces it will try 145 persons in connections with 8/96 bread riots. (NYT 9/6)

Turkey sends planes to bomb the Turkish separatist Kurdish Worker Party (PKK) in n. Iraq; announces plans to create a 10-km. wide "security zone" in the Kurdish enclave, similar to Israel's self-declared security zone in s. Lebanon. In Irbil, KDP forces attack PUK outposts to secure their hold in the city. In s. Iraq, U.S. begins to patrol expanded no-fly zone. France, which helps patrol the original no-fly zone, refuses to send planes above the 32d parallel (see 9/3). (MM 9/5; TDN 9/5 in WNC 9/6; al-Ra'i 9/5 in WNC 9/9; NYT, WP, WT 9/6; al-Dustur, VIRI 9/7 in WNC 9/10) (see 8/17, 9/4)

In their 4th day of talks, PA, Israeli officials say plans for a mtg. btwn. Arafat, Netanyahu are hung up over the wording of a statement pledging support for the Oslo accords. Late in the evening, a "vague" statement is concluded and signed by UN Coordinator Larsen, laying out a framework for continuing negotiations. (MM 9/3; ITV 9/3 in WNC 9/5; CSM, WT 9/4; CSM, WP, WT 9/5; MEI 9/6; PR 9/13; JP 9/14) (see 9/2)

U.S. carries out early morning strike on 14 Iraqi air defense sites in s. Iraq, firing 27 cruise missiles, killing 5 Iraqis, wounding 19; extends s. no-fly zone fr. the 32d parallel to the 33d. Later in the evening, the U.S. fires 17 cruise missiles at same targets in "mop-up" operation. Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey refuse to let U.S. use their bases as staging area for the raids. Arab League, Arab MKs, China, France, PA, PLO, Russia, Syria also criticize strikes. Non-Arab MKs, Germany, Japan, UK call strikes justified. (MM 9/3; IDF Radio, JT, RE 9/3 in WNC 9/4; JTV, RE, RJ, TDN 9/3, al-Dustur, JT 9/4 in WNC 9/5; CSM, MM, NYT, WP, WT 9/4; al-Nahar, al-Quds 9/4, JT 9/5 in WNC 9/6; MEI 9/6, 9/20) (see 9/2)