The Palestine Chronology

Palestinian police vanguard of 20 officers enters Jericho fr. Jordan. PLO and Israeli officials in Jericho and Gaza discuss transfer of powers. PLO official Khalid Qudra says after Gaza mtg. he expects full Palestinian takeover to occur 5/17. (MM 5/12; NYT, WP, WT 5/13)

IDF evacuates Rafah, Gaza Strip, turning over police station and military govt. HQ to 40 locally recruited Palestinian police. IDF also leaves bases in Khan Yunis and Maghazi, al-Burayj, and Nusayrat r.c.s. (NYT, WP, WT 5/13)

Israeli AG Michael Ben-Yair tells Knesset that parliamentary immunity no longer applies in Palestinian autonomous areas. Remark is directed at 3 Likud and NRP MKs staging sit-in at Jericho's Shalom Al Yisrael synagogue. (MM 5/12)

Israeli truck driver ambushed nr. Mogaz settlement, Gaza Strip, in attack claimed by Hamas. 1 Palestinian arrested. In Jabaliya r.c., Palestinian gunmen shoot at IDF soldiers, who return fire, wounding 1Palestinian. (WP 5/13)

PLO official Nabil Shaath announces appointment of 15 mbrs. of Palestinian National Authority. 2 women are among appointees. Israeli PM Rabin says naming of 15 of 24 mbrs. sufficient to proceed with transition to self-rule. (NYT, WP, WT 5/13)

Dep. Asst. Secy of State Daniel Kurtzer, in Cairo, states U.S. has pledged $10.1 m. toward job creation, construction, and training for Palestinian refugees. Kurtzer in Cairo for 3-day mtg. of multilateral working group on refugees. (MM 5/12)

330 Palestinian police leave staging area nr. Cairo for Rafah, on Sinai-Gaza border. 270 others make camp at Jordanian side of Allenby Bridge, awaiting deployment in Jericho. (NYT, WT 5/8; NYT 5/9)

Haim Bar-Lev, IDF chief of staff 1968-71 after whom "Bar-Lev Line" of Sinai fortifications named, dies at 69 in Tel Aviv. (NYT, WT 5/8)

PLO Chmn. Arafat and Israeli PM Rabin sign 186-page Gaza-Jericho self-rule accord after 6-hr. negotiating session. Cairo ceremony presided over by Egyptian Pres. Husni Mubarak; 2,500 attendees include Secy. of State Christopher, Russian FM Andrei Kozyrev, Norwegian FM Bjorn Tore Godal, FMs of Japan, South Korea, Morocco, and Jordan. Arafat balks at signing maps accompanying accord, saying size of Jericho area not agreed upon, and ceremony stops for 35 minutes until Arafat reassured issue subject to further negotiation. Arafat asks for 3-week delay in withdrawal to allow PLO to prepare for taking power. (MM, NYT, WP, WT 5/4, 5/5; CSM 5/5)

Simultaneous with signing, Israel permits return of 15 Palestinian exiles, releases over 200 Palestinian prisoners, and allows entry into Gaza of 19 PLO police cmndrs. (MM 5/4; NYT, WP, WT 5/5)

Settlers attempt to occupy Shalom Al Yisrael synagogue in Jericho, staging prayer vigil. IDF remove settlers, detains 400 at Jericho base. Palestinian celebration in Jericho broken up by IDF with tear gas, percussion grenades. PLO officials arriving in Jericho in IDF jeeps stoned by local youths. (MM 5/4;NYT, WT 5/5; NYT 5/6)

Hamas spokesman Ibrahim Ghawsha says group will not use force against Palestinian supporters of Gaza-Jericho agreement, but says Palestinian police should not try to stop attacks by opposition factions on settlers, IDF. (MM 5/4)

DFLP head Nayif Hawatmah, PFLP chief George Habash issue statements rejecting Gaza-Jericho accord, calling for continued resistance to occupation and new elections to PNC. (MM 5/4)

U.S. Secy. of State Christopher, Egyptian Pres. Mubarak, Israeli FM Peres, and PLO Chmn. Arafat meet in Cairo, announce breakthrough on Gaza-Jericho agreement. Reportedly size of Jericho, duties of Palestinian police at border crossings, telephone and postal service remain to be resolved. Arafat and PM Rabin are to meet in Cairo 5/3 to resolve outstanding issues, sign self-rule accord 5/4. Christopher agrees to extend stay in region until signing, proceeds to Tel Aviv to discuss Israeli negotiations with Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria with PM Rabin. (MM 4/28; CSM, NYT, WP, WT 4/29)

Jerusalem District Court finds settler guilty of premeditated murder in 3/93 killing in Susia settlement nr. Hebron of Palestinian. Victim was bound hand and foot; settler shot him 9 times at point-blank range. Settler is sentenced to life in prison. (NYT 4/29, WT 5/4)

PFLP-GC figure Mustafa Khamis announces formation of "PFLP-Islamic General Command." (al-Sharq al-Awsat 4/28 in FBIS 4/29)

Israel-PLO talks on Gaza-Jericho self-rule reconvene in Cairo. (NYT, WT 4/17; MM, WP 4/18)

Israeli cabinet eases closure of o.t., allowing 4,500 Palestinians over 35 to return to agricultural jobs, 16,000 others to cross "Green Line" regularly for business reasons. Move follows Shin Bet report that none of the Palestinians who killed Israelis inside Israel entered under work permits. (MM 4/18)

Hamas issues statement to media in Jordan saying a"correct start" to peace process would be Israeli withdrawal fr. o.t., dismantling of settlements, and free Palestinian elections. Statement 1st sign of softening of Hamas attitude toward Israel. (MM 4/18)

3-day multilateral conference on Middle East water opens in Muscat, Oman. Attended by delegates fr. 41 countries, including 26 Israelis negotiators accompanied by 19 journalists, session is boycotted by Syria and Lebanon. Jordan sends observer, not negotiator, due to dispute with U.S. over UN searches of vessels docking at Aqaba. Event marks 1st time Israeli officials allowed in a Gulf Arab country. (WT 4/17, 4/18)

IDF kills 3 Palestinians-1 each in Jerusalem, Tulkarm, and Gaza Strip-protesting Hebron massacre. 50 Palestinians wounded. Demonstrations throughout o.t. and in Israeli-Arab towns of Jaffa, Ramla, and Nazareth and in Galilee villages. 40 Israeli Arabs arrested in Nazareth, 10 in Ramla. Closure imposed on West Bank Palestinians and total curfew on Hebron; IDF guards posted at entrance to Qiryat Arba settlement. Qiryat Arba settlers travel under IDF escort. (Qol Yisra'el 2/26 in FBIS 2/28; NYT, WP, WT 2/27; WP 2/28)

PLO Chmn. Arafat demands international protection for Palestinians in o.t. Israel-PLO talks in Cairo, Taba postponed pending decision of PLO leaders. Arafat recalls PLO negotiators fr. Cairo, Paris, and Washington for consultations, emergency mtg. of PLO Exec. Comm. Israeli FM Peres accepts Pres. Clinton's invitation to shift talks to Washington, but rejects international presence in o.t. (MENA 2/26, 2/27 in FBIS 2/28; NYT, WP, WT 2/27)

UNSC debates Hebron massacre for 5 hours, takes no action. PLO, Organization of the Islamic Conference request international protection for Palestinians. U.S. delegation opposes monitors. (NYT, WP 2/27; NYT 2/28)

Demonstrations against Hebron massacre in Palestinian r.c.s throughout Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria. King Hussein declares 3 days of mourning. (NYT 2/27)

Washington, opened 1/24, adjourns without reported progress. (Qol Yisra'el 2/3 in FBIS 2/3; MM 2/4)

Multilateral Working Group on Arms Control and Regional Security ends Cairo mtg. opened 1/30 after discussing Russian-U.S. working paper, IAEA proposals. (MENA 2/3 in FBIS 2/4)

IDF soldier in truck, firing at stone-throwers in Shatti camp, Gaza Strip, critically wounds 13-yr.-old Mahmud Abu Hajar. IDF spokesman admits soldier's action violates IDF rules of engagement. (MM 2/3; NYT, WP 2/4)

IDF undercover unit disguised as women and old men kills Fateh Hawks' leader Salim Muafi, 29, in surprise attack in Rafah, Gaza Strip. Hawks announce they will no longer obey PLO Chmn. Arafat's orders, escalate "armed struggle." IDF Chief of Staff Gen. Ehud Barak calls Muafi's killing a "great achievement." (WP 2/4)

IDF arrests 15 settlers attempting to establish new settlement nr. Maale Adumin, West Bank. (Qol Yisra'el 2/3 in FBIS 2/4)

Israeli Ag. Min. program comm. approves expansion of Moshav Ramot, Maale Gamla settlements in Golan Heights. (MM 2/4)

U.S. Agency for International Development releases $7 m. in aid to Palestinian Housing Council in East Jerusalem to fund 192 apartments in Jabaliya, Gaza Strip. Money is 1st installment of $500 m. pledged to support Israel-PLO DoP. (MM, WT 2/4)

Jordan reduces staff of Iranian embassy in Amman by 21 in move interpreted as Jordanian disapproval of Tehran's support for anti-DoP groups. (AFP 2/3 in FBIS 2/3; WP 2/4)

Zionist Organization of America, National Jewish Coalition circulate Time magazine columns by Dep. Secy. of State-designate Strobe Talbott criticizing Israeli policy in campaign to stop his nomination. Jewish Institute for National Security Affairs issues news release saying Talbott's views are reason he "should be disqualified" fr. post. Other Jewish groups, led by Conference of Presidents of Major Jewish Organizations, meet with Talbott and refuse to condemn him as anti-Israel. (MM, NYT 2/4)

"Seeds of Peace" organization presents awards to Israeli FM Peres, PLO UN Observer Muhammad Nasir al-Kidwa, and Egyptian UN amb. Nabil al-'Arabi. Group put together Israeli, Arab children for summer camp, was present at 9/13 DoP signing. (NYT 2/5)

PLO-Israel talks in Cairo on Palestinian autonomy recess without completing draft accord for discussion by PLO Chmn. Arafat and Israeli FM Peres. Sides remain divided over size of Jericho area, security for Israeli settlers, and control of border crossings. (MENA 1/27 in FBIS 1/28; NYT, WP 1/28; WP 1/29)

Israeli PM Rabin welcomes King Hussein's offer of public mtg., calling gesture "important progress." (IDF Radio 1/27 in FBIS 1/28; WP, NYT 1/28)

Central Bank of Jordan Gov. Muhammad Nabulsi says Amman has given go-ahead to 5 banks to open branches in West Bank and Gaza pursuant to 1/7 PLO-Jordan accord. (MM 1/28)

Israel announces it will purchase 20 F151 fighter-bombers, valued at $2 b., fr. McDonnell-Douglas Corp. of U.S. Pentagon spokeswoman says congressional approval of sale expected. (MM 1/28)

Israeli PM Rabin says PLO Chmn. Arafat's proposed "amendments" to Israeli draft on Gaza-Jericho "go beyond the limits," accuses Arafat of having "pulled back" fr. agreement reached in Cairo, says Israel needs clarification on several issues before negotiations can resume. (WT 1/2)

Jordan's King Hussein, in speech to army officers, sets deadline for PLO-Jordan economic agreement, calling it a "last chance." "After that, let each side carry the responsibility on his own." (JTV 1/1 in FBIS 1/3; CSM, WP, WT 1/3; NYT 1/4)

Clashes in Gaza City btwn. IDF and Palestinians leave 5 Palestinians wounded. IDF soldiers declare area "closed military zone," beat and detain journalists. (NYT 1/2)

Vatican Undersecy. for Foreign Relations Msgr. Claudio Celli and Israeli Dep. FM Yossi Beilin sign 15-point "fundamental agreement" establishing diplomatic relations. (CSM, NYT, WP, WT 12/31)

PLO Chmn. Arafat meets in Cairo with Egyptian FM 'Amr Musa, refuses to accept Israeli proposals on Gaza-Jericho agreement. Arafat flies to Amman for consultations with Jordan's King Hussein. (RJ 12/20 in FBIS 1/3; CSM, NYT, WP, WT 12/31)

3 Fateh-Uprising guerrillas killed by IDF while crossing Lebanon-Israel border. IDF rockets village in southern Lebanon in retaliation. (Qol Yisra'el 12/30 in FBIS 12/30; CSM, NYT, WT 12/31)

Demonstrations in Gaza mark anniversary of founding of Fateh. (WP, WT 12/3)

Syrian Chief Rabbi Ibrahim Hamra confirms govt. is issuing exit visas to Jews at rate of 25-30 a day. Hamra says community numbers 1,250 and that not all who receive visas will leave. (WP 12/31)

30 Japanese businesses announce plans to form Japan-Israel Business Club to promote Japanese-Israeli trade. (WT 12/31)

Alleged Hamas mbr. Shadi Muslih 'Isa, 18, attacks Israeli police officer, civilian at Erez crossing point, Gaza Strip, and is shot dead. (MM 11/16)

16-yr.-old Palestinian student Rami Ghazzawi killed when IDF fires on youths stoning settler cars in al-Birah. 3 other students wounded. (MM 11/16)

Settlers in Hebron riot, overturning stalls at fruit and vegetable market and attacking Palestinian cars. (MM 11/16)

Israeli Justice M. David Libai, at Maale Ephraim settlement, warns settlers that no one could "take the law into his own hands," says govt. "will have to subdue any attempt to have influence by illegal means." IDF states it will act "firmly and aggressively" to stop settler assaults, will use "reasonable force." (MM 11/16; NYT 11/17)

PM Rabin tells Secy. of State Christopher 12/13 deadline for implementation of DoP may not be met. (MM 11/16, 11/17)

Israeli-Palestinian talks on implementation of Gaza-Jericho provisions of DoP resume in Cairo. Israeli delegation led by IDF Dep. Chief of Staff Amnon Shahak, Palestinian by PLO official Nabil Shaath. (Cairo TV 11/16 in FBIS 11/17)

Israel-PLO economic talks in Paris chaired by Fin. M. Avraham Shohat and PEDRA DG Ahmad Qurai' establish 3 subcomms. on trade and labor, taxation and banking, and currency. Subcomms. are to meet 11/23-25 in Paris, heads of delegations on 11/25. (Qol Yisra'el 11/16 in FBIS 11/17; MM 11/17)

Central Bank of Jordan (CBJ) Gov. Muhammad al-Nabulsi says agreement reached with Palestinians to retain Jordanian dinar as o.t. currency, have CBJ supervise and monitor banking. (JTV 11/16 in FBIS 11/17)

Multilateral talks on Middle East environment end in Cairo with Israeli-Arab agreement on Gulf of Aqaba oil spills, dispute on Israeli nuclear waste, Jordan Valley land reclamation. Delegates fr. 40 countries, in 4th mtg., agree on 20 environmental projects. (MENA 11/16 in FBIS 11/17; MM 11/17)

Palestinian leaders in o.t., Jordan, "and elsewhere" submit memorandum to PLO Chmn. Arafat criticizing PLO performance, demanding reforms. (MM 11/17, al-Ray 11/18 in FBIS 11/18)

Knesset Golan caucus considers bill fr. Likud and NRP mbrs. to amend law annexing Golan to require majority of 80 MKs for any change in law. Labor mbrs. of caucus express sympathy with bill, which given current Knesset divisions would effectively bar negotiations with Syria. (MM 11/17)

Syrian VP Khaddam tells foreign correspondents PLO Chmn. Arafat "fell into a big trap" in signing DoP, notes "There are 4 million Palestinian refugees living outside the territories covered by the 'Gaza-Jericho First' agreement." Khaddam claims Arafat "abandoned coordination with the Arab parties," states "I believe the majority of the Palestinian people do not support the agreement." (MM 11/16; SARR 11/16 in FBIS 11/17)

Hizballah offensive on IDF and SLA; Katyusha barrages fired in "security zone," assaults on 2 IDF, 6 SLA posts. 12 SLA mbrs. taken prisoner, at least 2 IDF soldiers and 2 SLA mbrs. wounded. 1 Hizballah mbr. killed in attack. IAF bombs 3 Hizballah bases nr. Ba'labakk, knocks out radio antenna. "Black September 13 Brigades," Fateh group opposed to DoP, claims responsibility for katyusha barrage on Qiryat Shemona. (MM 11/16, 11/17; IDF Radio, AFP 11/16 in FBIS 11/17)

Turkish FM Hikmet Cetin, in interview with JP, says Syria behind Kurdish attacks in Turkey, Israel and Turkey should cooperate on counter-terrorism. (MM 11/16)

Israel Archaeologists Society calls for end to govt. Antiquities Authority search for scrolls in West Bank ("Operation Scroll"), saying search aims at denying Palestinian scholars access to materials and will complicate future Israeli cooperation with Palestinians and Jordan. (WT 11/17)

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)

FMs of Egypt, Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, and the PLO end 2-day meeting in Damascus, delay decision on resuming talks with Israel 4/20 in their final statement. (Radio Lebanon 3/29 in FBIS 3/30; NYT, WP 3/30)

Hanan Ashrawi says Palestinians rejected 3/26 U.S. offers, adds that such assurances are basic rights, "not issues for blackmail, negotiations, or pressure." (MM 3/30)

PLO amb. in Cairo Said Kamal says Pres. Asad and Chmn. Arafat have entrusted Pres. Mubarak to negotiate a solution to the deportees and raise new peace talks ideas during his 4/6 talks with Pres. Clinton in Washington. (MM 3/29)

Jordanian PM Sharif Bin-Shakir tells MPs that his govt. does not accept Israeli-Jordanian draft agenda negotiated by the respective delegations and publicized 10/27/92. It is missing some key points, particularly on Jerusalem. (MM 3/30)

IDF shoots 1 Palestinian dead in Jalazun camp, West Bank. Palestinian worker kills settler near Khan Yunis. Settlers burn down mosque in Gaza Strip. (IDF Radio 3/29 in FBIS 3/30; Qol Yisra'el 3/30 in FBIS 3/31; WP 3/30)

Faisal Husseini and 40 delegation associates visit area in Khan Yunis, Gaza Strip, where homes were leveled by IDF 2/11 to offer sympathy, rally support for negotiations. Hamas and PLO supporters chant allegiance. (MM 2/17)

Pres. Mubarak meets with Chmn. Arafat in Cairo. (WT 2/20; MENA 2/17 in FBIS 2/17)

Israeli Aircraft Industries announces U.S. Def. Dept. has awarded them and American co. TRW a $240m contract to build 56 unmanned airplanes. Sen. Daniel Inouye (DHI) announces U.S. has budgeted $57m to improve Haifa port, which will serve as U.S. Navy's major regional anchorage. But as chmn. of Senate def. appropriations subcomm., he tells Israeli officials that they should prepare for a possible cut in U.S. foreign aid. (MM 2/17; WT 2/18)

Jordan appoints Shaykh Sulayman al-Jabari Mufti of Jerusalem. (MM 2/19)

Israeli justice min. announces that Shin Bet agent in charge when Mustafa 'Akkawi died under 2/4/92 interrogation has been disciplined. (WT 2/18)

IDF shoots 2 Palestinian youths dead in West Bank; another shot dead, while fleeing, 10 minutes after curfew, in Gaza City. (NYT 2/19)

Hizballah and Israeli, SLA forces engage in largest artillery battle of the year, killing 3 Islamic fighters, 2 other Lebanese. Israel shells up to 30 villages, including Nabatiyya. (MM, NYT 2/18)

FMs of Egypt, Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, PLO, conclude meeting in Cairo, issue statement urging UN to give Israel a deadline to repatriate 12/17 Palestinian deportees, imply peace talks in jeopardy. (NYT 12/25)

Chmn. Arafat says "I would have caught the murderer of the soldier [kidnapped 10/13 by Hamas and found dead 10/15] and killed him!" in interview on deportations, peace talks. (Davar 12/27 in FBIS 12/28)

Palestinian-Israeli delegation including MKs and local council heads, makes deportees-solidarity visit to Red Cross HQ in Gaza, which turns into large demonstration. (ITV 12/24 in FBIS 12/30)

Chmn. Arafat and Egyptian FM 'Amr Musa meet in Cairo, accompanied by many PLO and Egyptian officials. Arafat then travels to Amman to meet with King Hussein. (MENA, Radio Jordan 10/6 in FBIS 10/7

French FM Roland Dumas meets with Pres. Mubarak in Cairo, then meets separately with PM Rabin and FM Peres in Jerusalem. The U.S. has reportedly sent word to Israel that the Dumas initiatives, centered on arranging a Rabin-Asad summit, do not advance the peace process. Palestinian and Jordanian sources are "suspicious" of Dumas' efforts, as he has made no effort to meet with the PLO, and appears to be working toward only a partial settlement. (Ha'Aretz al-Quds, al-Dustur 10/5 in MM 10/5)

Al-Sharq al-Awsat reports that Chmn. Arafat has solicited the help of Pres. Mubarak in curbing Syrian support of oppositionist Palestinian factions. Ten such orgs. signed a statement attacking the peace process 9/18 in Damascus. Mubarak reportedly promised to speak to Pres. Asad on the matter. (al-Sharq al-Awsat 10/4 in FBIS 10/8)

Hizballah gunmen attack Bayt Yahun crossing point in central "security zone," S. Lebanon, kill SLA security chief Hussein 'Abd al-Nabi, 1 other SLA militiaman. Hizballah loses 2 in the fighting. Israel shells and strafes the area. (Radio Lebanon, AFP 10/4 in FBIS 10/5; al-Nahr 10/5 in MM 10/5

PM Rabin meets with Pres. Mubarak in Cairo, first meeting of Egyptian and Israeli heads of state in 6 years. Leaders exchange views on the peace process, bilateral relations; Mubarak accepts invitation to visit Israel. (WP 7/22)

Housing Min. Benyamin Ben-Eliezer and Fin. Min. Avraham Shochat expand 7/16 settlements freeze to cancel plans for total of 6,681 settlement units "in blueprint stage," but will proceed with construction of 10,467 units in more advanced stages. Work will definitely continue on the 1,686 of these that are in the "Greater Jerusalem" area, and the other 8,781 will be subject to "further review." Work was also halted on several "political roads"; no mobile homes may be moved into the o.t., nor may they be moved from current sites in the o.t. (Ha'Aretz 7/21 in FBIS 7/21; Davar 7/22 in FBIS 7/22; NYT, WP 7/24)

King Hussein meets with Secy. of State Baker in Amman, denies Jordan is shipping supplies to Iraq in defiance of UN sanctions. Leaders also discuss peace process. Baker says the U.S. opposes all settlements, but that "security installations are something different." (WP 7/22, 23)

Palestinian leadership continues meeting in Tunis, criticizes Rabin's "partial step" settlement halt; leadership sends messages regarding peace process to Pres. Mubarak and Asad, King Hussein. (Tunisian Republic Radio, MENA 7/21 in FBIS 7/22; Algiers VOP 7/22 in FBIS 7/23)

Palestinian man is killed by Border Police near Janin. (Qol Yisra'el 7/22 in FBIS 7/23)

Activists slated for deportation 1/2 appeal to PLO leadership to mobilize int'l condemnation of Israel's "voluntary exile" rulings used against them, as well as against 6 activists in al-Najah University siege compromise. Families of the 11 deportees have sent similar message. Israel's state attorney has asked High Court to delay appeal hearings of 11 deportees untilate August. (MM 7/30)

One IDF soldier is killed, 3 wounded as Islamic Resistance bomb explodes under an Israeli tank near north-central "security zone" border village of Bayt Yahun. Three nearby SLA outposts are mortared as fighting escalates in Bra'shit, Haddathah areas. Israel shells Wadi al-Akhdar, Jabal Safi, Malita areas. (VOL 7/21 in FBIS 7/22; Radio Lebanon 7/21, 22 in FBIS 7/22; IDF Radio 7/21 in FBIS 7/22; NYT 7/24)

As part of effort to disarm all factions in Lebanon, min. of state Nazih al-Bizri states that "time is not right" to collect weapons from the Palestinians. Palestinians in Lebanon possess mostly light weapons. (Radio Lebanon 7/21 in FBIS 7/22)

PM-designate Rabin announces new cabinet to the Labor party Cent. Comm. He named himself DM, Mordechai Gur dep. DM (in charge of "day-to-day" affairs), Avraham Shochat fin. min., Benyamin Ben-Eliezer construction and housing min., Shulamit Aloni education min. Labor has 13 minister portfolios, Meretz 3, and Shas 1-interior. (NYT 7/13)

Labor issues separate letters of commitment on social and political matters to HADASH (Democratic Front) and Arab Democratic Party, two Arab parties supporting but not part of new coalition who have a total of 5 Knesset seats. (ITV 7/12 in FBIS 7/13)

Chmn. Arafat meets with Pres. Mubarak in Cairo. (MM 7/13)

PLO political advisor and delegation advisory comm. mbr. Nabil Shaath says Egypt is "the" Arab state capable of restoring Arab solidarity and boosting Palestinian negotiating strength, aswell as materially aiding the Palestinan people. (MENA 7/12 in FBIS 7/14)

Palestinian delegation spokeswoman Hanan Ashrawi is detained for several hours upon crossing the Allenby bridge from Jordan, regarding the delegation's 6/18 public meeting with PLO Chmn. Arafat. (Qol Yisra'el 7/12 in FBIS 7/13; NYT 7/13)

Israel, SLA heavily shells Iqlim al-Tuffah region in S. Lebanon, reportedly in retaliation for bomb attack on Israeli patrol. (MM 7/13)

UNLU issues addendum to call no. 84 (issued 7/4) commending and supporting efforts to end intra-Palestinian violence in Gaza Strip.

Chmn. Arafat, PLO Exec. Comm. mbr. Yasir 'Abd Rabbuh, advisor Nabil Shaath meet with Pres. Mubarak in Cairo. (MENA 6/24 in FBIS 6/25)

Jordan formally rejects U.S. "Aqaba Plus" plan to station UN inspectors in the Gulf of Aqaba and along the Jordanian-Iraqi border to monitor compliance with UN sanctions against Iraq. (MM 6/25; Jordan Times 6/25 in FBIS 6/25)

Asst. Secy. of State Edward Djerejian delivers first official U.S. reaction to Israeli elections, addresses other topics in testimony before House subcomm. on Europe and the Middle East. Secy. of State James Baker calls for quick resumption of peace talks once the Labor-led govt. takes power. (MM, NYT 6/25)

Syrian Pres. Hafiz al-Asad invites PM Mahmud al-Zu'bi to form new govt. after accepting resignation of current govt. (MM 6/25)

Israeli jets overfly Sidon, nearby camps at low altitude in S. Lebanon. (VOL 6/24 in FBIS 6/24)

Multilateral talks on refugees open in Ottawa with Palestinians asserting that solution for Palestinian refugees should be made through implementation of UN Gen. Assembly Res. 194, which calls for repatriation of refugees or compensation. Israel boycotts talks. (MM 5/12)

Responding to 5/12 U.S. statement regarding right of Palestinian refugees to return, PM Shamir states "There is only a Jewish 'right of return' to the Land of Israel." State Dept. clarifies 5/12 statement, reaffirming U.S. support for Res. 194 and Sec. Council Res. 237 (adopted 14 June 1967) regarding return of Palestinian refugees but adding that this remains a matter to be negotiated between Palestinians and Israel. (NYT, MM 5/14)

Multilateral talks on water open in Vienna with more than 30 delegations attending. (WP 5/14)

Palestinian negotiators Zakariyal-Agha, 'Abd al-Rahman Hamad are refused entry into Gaza by Israeli authorities at Rafah border crossing point for a second time after they again refused to allow border guards to search documents they were carrying [see 5/12]. (MM 5/15)

Annual assembly of World Health Organization passes resolution criticizing Israel for health conditions in o.t. (MM 5/14)

In Jerusalem, Jordanian-controlled Higher Islamic Council warns against intervention by "foreign or international bodies" in repair work to Islamic holy sites in E. Jerusalem, an apparent reference to Saudi attempts to finance repairs of shrines in coordination with UNESCO [Jordan has traditionally been responsible for shrines' maintenance] [see 4/29, 5/5, 5/11, 5/12]. (MM 5/13; NYT 5/14)

Shaykh Ishaq Idris Sakhouta, head of Cairo-based and Saudi-financed World Islamic League, begins visit to Israel and o.t. After praying at al-Aqsa mosque in E. Jerusalem, Sakhouta praises Israel's handling of Islamic shrines in Jerusalem during meeting with Jerusalem mayor Teddy Kollek [Sakhouta's visit is being financed by an Israeli tourist company which seeks to increase Muslim tourism to Islamic holy sites in o.t.] (MM 5/14)

IDF kill "wanted" Palestinian in Immatin, near Tulkarm. Separate gun battle between IDF and 3 Palestinians leaves 1 Palestinian wounded. (Qol Yisra'el 5/14 in FBIS 5/14

U.S. investigatory team ends its inspection of Israeli Patriot missile batteries. (NYT 3/27)

Ateret Cohanim seminary opens four stores in Muslim Quarter of E. Jerusalem. (MM 3/27)

EC "troika" [three European for. ministers who comprise the EC's presidency] arrives in Cairo for talks on peace process and upcoming multilateral talks with Egyptian, Arab League officials. (Republic of Egypt Radio 3/26 in FBIS 3/26)

Israel allows direct-dial telephone service to 10 Arab countries (Jordan, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Algeria, Tunis, Morocco, United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Qatar, Yemen). Jordan's national telecommunications company states it will block incoming calls from Israel, asserting no bilateral treaty establishing communications has yet been signed. Decision to initiate service was made in Dec. 1991. (NYT 3/28)

Israeli cabinet reaffirms refusal to attend beginning of bilateral talks in Washington 12/4. (WP 12/2)

Arafat holds talks with Pres. Mubarak in Cairo, later flies to Jordan. (Jordan TV 12/1 in FBIS 12/2; MM 12/2)

Shots fired at Israeli car near al-Bira wound two settlers; one later dies of his injuries. IDF imposes round-the-clock curfew on 70,000 residents of Ramallah-Bira region. (Qol Yisra'el 12/1 in FBIS 12/3; Israel TV 12/3 in FBIS 12/4; MM 12/5)

SLA releases 25 Lebanese prisoners as moves toward comprehensive hostage-prisoner release intensify. (NYT 12/3)

Secy. of State Baker ends talks with Pres. Mubarak in Cairo, after which he flies to Jordan for discussion with King Hussein about Palestinian participation in peace talks. At a press conference in Amman, Baker indicates U.S. is seeking Palestinian delegates who will not press for immediate Palestinian statehood in the o.t. but who would cooperate in talks concerning a limited period of Palestinian self-rule, with negotiations onthe final status of the territories to come later. (WP 10/15)

A top-level PLO delegation, headed by Exec. Comm. mbrs. Yasir 'Abd Rabbuh, Mahmud Abbas, and Sulayman al-Najab, arrives in Amman. (WP 10/15)

Arab League ministerial meeting opens in Cairo; in unopposed election, Arab League chooses Egyptian F.M. Esmat Abdel Meguid as its Sec.-Gen. for the next 5 years [MEM 5/15; WP, NYT 5/16; CDS, RMC, MENA 5/15 in FBIS 5/16].

Meeting in Israel, Sec. Baker and P.M. Shamir draw up confidential document that acknowledges the obstacles to holding regional peace conference, but points toward fresh attempt to start Israeli-Palestinian talks [WP, LAT 5/16]. But Israel rejects Sec. Baker's proposals for bridging differences with Syria [MEM 5/15; NYT 5/16].

U.S. diplomatic and intelligence sources say that roughly 10 days ago, Israel told American military attaches in Tel Aviv that Israeli military action in southern Lebanon was possible; warning is seen as message to Lebanon and Syria not to take action against Israel-backed SLA [WP 5/16].

34-member team of international specialists arrive in Baghdad for week of on-site inspections of Iraq's nuclear facilities to ensure compliance with UN resolutions prohibiting Iraqi possession of weapons of mass destruction [MEM 5/15; WP, NYT, LAT 5/16].

Palestinians who met with Sec. Baker say that he told them American initiative did not envision eventual creation of Palestinian state: "Less than a state, more than autonomy," is how one participant put it [NYT, MEM 5/16].

On conclusion of 5-day meeting in Tunis Fateh Revolutionary Council calls for meeting of Egypt, Syria, Jordan, Lebanon, and PLO to coordinate stands on Middle East issues [MENA 5/15, DUS 5/16 in FBIS 5/16].

Sec. Baker meets with Palestinians in Jerusalem, makes no comment afterward. Faisal Husseini says that meeting was most constructive of the 3 held so far. Baker flies to Jordan for meeting with King Hussein (lst since Gulf war), who endorses Baker's peace mission; then Baker flies to Cairo. Israeli officials criticize what they call "subtle pressure" on Jerusalem to offer concessions; Baker and other American officials admit that Saudi Arabia is not likely to attend peace conference with Israel [NYT, WP 4/21; JDS, IDF, AGS, MENA, ADS 4/20 in FBIS 4/22; FJ 4/22; JPI 5/4].

Battalion of U.S. Marines lands in northern Iraq to begin erecting 1st refugee camp in what is to be allied-protected zone inside Iraq [NYT, WP 4/21; CSM 4/22].

Under pressure to form more democratic gov't., Kuwait announces new cabinet with 4 of 9 members of Sabah family retaining major posts [NYT 4/21; MEM 4/22; KUNA 4/20 in FBIS 4/22].

Opposition groups say naming cabinet is insufficient, that it fails to move country toward democracy [WP 4/21; MEM 4/22].

Yasir Arafat arrives in Yemen for meetings with Pres. Salih [AES 4/20, SDS 4/21 in FBIS 4/22].

In rare public showing, 43 Saudi businessmen and intellectuals publish in Cairo daily an open letter to King Fahd calling on him to establish national and municipal consultative councils and to curb the power of the mutaween, the Islamic religious police [WP 4/16].

In nationwide address, King Fahd renews limited pledge of political reform, announcing "notable progress" in establishing consultative assembly [LAT 4/17; SPA 4/15 in FBIS 4/16].

King also promises to expand the country's armed forces and equip them with world's best weapons [MEM 4/16; CSM 4/18].

Kuwaiti soldiers take up positions along demilitarized zone as U.S. troops continue to leave area [WP 4/16].

Most U.S. troops move quickly out of southern Iraq [LAT 4/16].

In southern Lebanon, SIA troops kill 2 Arabs just west of Israel's "security zone"; it is 2d such killing in 2 days [JDS, AFP 4/15 in FBIS 4/15; MET 4/23].

Arab crosses border from Jordan into Israel, fires on Israeli patrol and is shot dead by IDF; 1 Israeli soldier is wounded [JDS 4/16 in FBIS 4/16].

Palestinian is shot dead by security guards after throwing stone at Israeli bus north of Jerusalem [MEM 4/15; JDS 4/15 in FBIS 4/16; FJ 4/22].

Eight Jewish families move into mobile homes in West Bank, opening 1st new settlement, named Revava, to be established in o.t. under P.M. Shamir's current gov't. (cf. 4/16) [MEM, CSM 4/16; JDS 4/16 in FBIS 4/16; JPI 4/27].

Leftist Israelis stage demonstration at Revava, protesting its establishment [JDS 4/15 in FBIS 4/17].

In Cairo, Sec. Baker meets with Pres. Mubarak; F.M. Abdel Meguid says Egypt is prepared to consider American proposal for Arab-Israeli peace conference sponsored by Washington and Moscow, and would treat Israel's conditions for such a conference with an open mind [MEM 4/10; NYT, WP, LAT 4/11; MENA 4/10, 4/11 in FBIS 4/11; MET 4/23].

Housing Minister Ariel Sharon says that he intends to continue efforts to accelerate settlements in o.t., despite Sec. Baker's reported criticism of Sharon's policy at 4/9 meetings [NYT 4/11].

Pres. Bush signs emergency appropriations bill into law; it authorizes $650 million for Israel, $200 million for Turkey, and cuts off economic and military, but not humanitarian, aid to Jordan. Provision allows pres. to resume aid if he feels it will facilitate Middle East peace process [NYT 4/11].

Yasir Arafat delivers speech to mark 41st month of intifada outlining PLO's recent diplomatic activity [AVP 4/10 in FBIS 4/11].

Ha'Aretz reports that about 3% of some 223,000 new immigrants to Israel since January 1989 have settled in o.t., most in Jerusalem neighborhoods [HAA 4/11 in FBIS 4/12].

In interview with Paris-based Arabic-language weekly, Khaled al-Hassan, Fateh Central Committee member and PNC committee chair, calls for election of Palestinian provisional gov't. capable of ending PLO's isolation [MEM 4/11].

Israel releases 240 Palestinian prisoners for end of Ramadan; D.M. Arens promises to release more [FJ 4/15; MET 4/23].

In Cairo, Arab League meeting opens with introductory speeches; all 21 nation-members attend; pro-Western nations, particularly Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Syria, dismiss Iraq's justifications for occupying Kuwait and hint that they no longer regard PLO as sole representative of Palestinians [NYT, WP 3/31; MENA 3/20 in FBIS 4/1; CSM 4/1].

Palestinians in o.t. hold general strike to mark Land Day, but within Israel, Land Day strike is canceled for 1st time in years, underscoring political differences among Israel's 800,000 Arabs [NYT, WP 3/31; FJ 4/8; MET 4/9].

At news conference in Kuwait, GCC Sec.- Gen. announces member states have decided to cut financial aid to Jordan and PLO because of their Gulf war stands (cf. 4/1) [ADS 3/30 in FBIS 4/1; MET 4/9].

Palestinian military court in Sanaa sentences Hani Muhammad al-Hasan to death for the assassination of Abu Iyad on 16 January [MENA 3/30 in FBIS 4/2]. 

After meeting in Cairo with Pres. Mubarak, Sec. Baker arrives in Jerusalem and meets with F.M. Levy, Baker says he is pleased with initial Israeli responses to Pres. Bush's peace initiative; announces plans to meet with Palestinian leaders from o.t., but will ignore their insistence that they speak for the PLO [NYT, LAT, WP, WT 3/12; MENA 3/11 in FBIS 3/11; MENA, JDS 3/11, IDF 3/12 in FBIS 3/12; CSM 3/13; JPI 3/23].

Israeli troops shoot dead 6 heavily armed Arabs who had crossed border from Jordan; 3 Israeli soldiers are slightly wounded in the 2-hour gun battle [NYT 3/12; JDS 3/11 in FBIS 3/11; JPI 3/23].

U.S. military officials say Iraq will turn over the bodies of 14 allied soldiers killed in Gulf war; 24 U.S. soldiers remain missing in action [LAT, WP 3/12].

23 Iraqi opposition groups begin 3-day conference in Beirut to solidify their stand and offer alternative to Saddam Hussein's regime [LAT, CSM 3/12; BDS 3/11 in FBIS 3/12].

Allied air strikes have left Iraq's oil production capacity reduced by two-thirds, according to oil industry experts [LAT 3/12].

U.S. Commerce Dep't. makes public list of $500 million in advanced American goods, including lasers and computers, that were sold to Iraq with Washington's approval between 1985 and August 1990 [NYT 3/12].

Palestinian journalist Taher Shriteh, released from Israeli prison on 3/8, is indicted on charges of aiding an illegal Arab group by giving them the publicly listed telephone number of Reuters in Jerusalem [NYT 3/17].

Gulf Crisis Financial Coordination Group, 27 wealthy countries, meet in Luxembourg, pledge $834 million in new aid to nations hardest hit by Gulf war [WT 3/12].

Public opinion survey published in Israeli newspaper Yedi'ot Ahronot shows 49% of respondents find "territories for peace" principle acceptable; 49% say it is unacceptable [YA 3/11 in FBIS 3/19].