The Palestine Chronology

FMs of Egypt, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Yemen hold mtg. in Hurghada, Egypt, to coordinate their positions in advance of the 1/24 Arab League special session on Iraq. (MENA 1/3, 1/4 in WNC 1/5; MM 1/5; MENA 1/6 in WNC 1/7; SATN 1/8 in WNC 1/12)

An Egyptian court sentences Israeli David Mineu to life with hard labor for smuggling drugs into the country. (MENA 1/7 in WNC 1/8)

Israeli police detain for deportation 14 American mbrs. of a Denver-based apocalyptic cult who were allegedly planning to mark the millennium by committing suicide or provoking their own killings in the streets of Jerusalem. Israel fears more such incidents as 2000 approaches. (NYT, WP, WT 1/4; MA 1/5 in WNC 1/6; WT 1/5; PR 1/8; WJW 1/7; WJW 1/14; JP 1/15)

Long-time Netanyahu ally Avigdor Lieberman launches new party, Yisrael Beitainu, aimed at rallying support of Russian immigrants for the PM before 5/99 elections. (MM, WP 1/4; MA 1/4 in WNC 1/5; NYT, WP 1/5)

The Israeli Housing Min. says that 7 contractors have submitted plans to build at Jabal Abu Ghunaym/Har Homa settlement site in Jerusalem. (WP 1/4; JP, PR 1/15)

Israeli television reports that 1,100 housing units are being constructed in a new West Bank settlement, Tal Tziyon, n. of Jerusalem, nr. Ramallah. A total of 7,000 units are planned. (ITV 1/3 in WNC 1/5)

IDF attacks suspected Hizballah bases in s. Lebanon not far fr. Syrian-held positions, wounding 5 Lebanese civilians, 1 Syrian soldier. (MM, WP 1/4; RL, VOL 1/3, AFP, RL 1/4 in WNC 1/5; MM 1/5)

Saudi dissident Osama Bin Laden tells Time Magazine that he "instigated" the 8/7 bombings of the U.S. embassies in Kenya, Tanzania. (CSM 1/4)

U.S. Asst. Secy. Indyk briefs ambs. of Algeria, Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Morocco, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Tunisia, the UAE on the Wye agmt. (al-Akhbar, al-Ba'th, al-Jumhuriyya, MENA, RL 10/26, AFP 10/27 in WNC 10/28; MM, NYT, WP 10/27; MM 10/28; al-Ba'th 10/28 in WNC 11/2; al-Quds 10/28, SA 10/30, al-Ahram 11/2 in WNC 11/6; MM 10/29, 10/30; MM 11/2; WP 11/6)

In the Knesset, PM Netanyahu survives no-confidence motion, but Knesset Law Comm. agrees (9-7) to hear 1st reading of bill calling for the dissolution of parliament, new elections in 100 days. MKs criticize Netanyahu for linking Pollard with the peace process. (CSM, WP, WT 10/27)

In Gaza, the Arab Liberation Front, the Democratic Front for the Liberation of Palestine (DFLP), Hamas, Islamic Jihad, the Islamic National Salvation Party, the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP) issue statement denouncing the Wye agmt. (MENA 10/26 in WNC 10/27; PR 10/30)

200 Jewish settlers hold rally outside PM Netanyahu's office in Jerusalem, protesting the Wye agmt. At least 24 are detained by Israeli police. (ITV 10/26 in WNC 10/27; WP 10/27; YA 10/27 in WNC 10/28; MM 10/28)

Jordan, Israel begin long-delayed $1.65-m. joint project to build the `Adasiyya diversion wall to diver Yarmuk River water. (JT, RJ 10/27 in WNC 10/28; JP 211/9)

An Israeli settler is killed in Israeli-controlled Hebron in an apparent attack by Palestinians. IDF places curfew on Palestinians in Hebron's Israeli-controlled zone. Later, the body of a Palestinian is found outside Itamar settlement nr. Nablus. An anonymous caller claims Palestinian was killed to avenge the settler's death. (IDF Radio, ITV 10/26 in WNC 10/27; ITV 10/26 in WNC 10/28; CSM, LAW, MM, NYT, WP 10/27; MM 10/28; WJW 10/29; PR 10/30)

In Ramallah, Palestinians observe general strike, 100s of Fatah mbrs. march to protest 10/25 events, call on Arafat to punish security services. (NYT, WP 10/27; PR 10/30)

International experts submit final report Iraqi missile fragments to the UNSC, say results are inconclusive. Tests by Switzerland show no traces of VX; 1 sample in the 3d test by France shows traces of nerve agent that could be VX. French, Swiss, U.S. tests all show traces of unknown compound that could mask biological agents. (NYT, WP 10/27; MEI 10/30) (6/22)

U.S. says that a UN proposal to try the Pan Am bombing suspects in the Hague under Scottish law, tentatively agreed to by all parties, is in jeopardy because of Libyan demands that the 2 suspects not be imprisoned in Scotland if found guilty. (WP 10/27; WT 10/28) (see 9/29)

Saying it would be "useless," Arafat cancels scheduled mtg. with Israeli negotiator Molho. (HA [Internet] 8/18; WJW 8/20)

Hamas mbr. Imad Awadallah, jailed by the PA for the 3/29 murder of Hamas mbr. Muhieddin Sharif, escapes fr. PA jail in Jericho. PA police conduct house-to-house search in Jericho, Ramallah; place curfew on central Jericho, marking the 1st time the PA has placed a curfew on Palestinians. (CSM, WP, WT 8/17)

Jordan's parliamentary speaker arrives in Iran for 3-day visit; discussions on expanding bilateral economic, political, cultural relations. (IRNA, RJ 8/15, IRNA, JT 8/16, IRNA 8/17 in WNC 8/18)

Pakistan hands over to Kenya a suspect, Muhammad Saddiq Odeh, in the 8/7 U.S. embassy bombing in Nairobi, claiming that he admitted during interrogation that he helped carry out the Kenya, Tanzania bombings for Saudi dissident Osama Bin Laden. In Nairobi, Kenyan, FBI officials question Odeh. (WP, WT 8/17; NYT 8/17)

Pres. Clinton, Secy. Albright, special envoy Ross discuss ways of reviving peace process in light of Ross's failed mission, possibility of publicly presenting 13.1% FRD proposal. (MM 4/6)

Lebanon, Syria hold summit in Damascus to draw up plans to counter Israel's moves to promote its conditional s. Lebanon withdrawal offer. (MM 4/6)

Pres. Clinton receives letter fr. 33 House reps., praising their Middle East policy. (WJW 4/2; NYT 4/7; MM 4/8; WJW 4/9; MEI 4/10; WT 4/13; NYT 4/26)

PA concludes that Hamas's Sharif was killed by a rival Hamas faction; says it has detained 30, arrested 5 Hamas suspects in the murder, is looking for a 6th accomplis. Hamas rejects report, saying PA is seeking an excuse to can crack down on the movement as Israel demands prior to an FRD. PM Netanyahu says investigation proves the PA is capable of fighting terrorism. (ITV 4/6 in WNC 4/7; MM 4/6; VIRI 4/6, Corriere della Sera [Milan] 4/7 in WNC 4/8; CSM, NYT, WP, WT 4/7; MM 4/8; MM, WT 4/15; PR 4/17; CSM 4/21; MEI, PR 4/24; YA 4/26 in WNC 4/30) (see 4/4)

1,000s of Israeli Arabs hold general strike, protest march in the Galilee to denounce government discrimination against Arab citizens. In Um al-Sehali, Israeli police watch, do not interfere as 3 bedouin families rebuild their homes. (MM 4/6; MM, WP 4/7; WT 4/8; MM 4/9; PR 4/17) (see 4/4)

Hrs. after being summoned to appear before the PA General Intelligence Service (GIS), Palestinian Muhammad Anqawi, previously arrested by the PA on suspicion of being a collaborator, is found shot dead in Ramallah. (PR 4/17; JP 4/25)

Russia says it has proposed building a nuclear research reactor in Iran in addition to the atomic energy plant currently under construction. Israel, U.S. protest. (WP 4/7)

Iran-Iraq POW swap ends. (CSM 4/6; WT 4/8; WP 4/20)

Federal judge in Manhattan jails Ismail Elbarasse, a Palestinian American, for refusing to testify before a secret grand jury investigating Hamas fundraising in the U.S. (NYT 4/18) (see 2/23)

Pres. Clinton announces ban on foreign-made assault rifles that closes loophole in a 1994 weapons ban that allowed the continued import of Israeli Uzis, Galils. Israeli Military Industries, which planned to sell 10,000 of the guns in the U.S. over the next 3 to 4 yrs., is considering manufacturing the guns in the U.S. to avoid the restriction. (Globes [Internet], YA 4/7 in WNC 4/8; WJW 4/9)

Roadside bomb detonates nr. the Lebanon-Israel border, killing 1 civilian, injuring 3. 1 IDF soldier is injured, 1 Hizballah mbr. is killed in separate incident nr. the border. (RL 4/6 in WNC 4/7; WJW 4/9)

In Washington, Secy. Albright discusses peace process with Israeli Trade M Sharansky. (IDF Radio, MA 4/3 in WNC 4/6)

Secy. Albright receives letter fr. 6 senators praising their Middle East policy. (WJW 4/2; NYT 4/7; MM 4/8; WJW 4/9; MEI 4/10; WT 4/13; NYT 4/26))

In Ramallah, more than 6,000 Palestinians attend funeral for Hamas's Sharif. Afterward, 100s of mourners demonstrate outside nearby Jewish settlement. IDF fires teargas, rubber bullets at them, injuring 10. (MM 4/2; WT 4/3) (see 3/29)

In Um al-Sehali, n. Israel, Israeli authorities demolish 3 bedouin homes allegedly build without permits. Um al-Sehali is home to 8 bedouin families, 100s of Israeli Arabs. (MM, WT 4/6)

U.S. eases travel warning on Iran. (WP 4/3)

Iran, Iraq begin POW exchange. (WP 4/3)

U.S. special envoy Ross meets with PM Netanyahu, who again rejects U.S. FRD proposal, claiming that PA has not backed adequate reciprocal security steps. Ross then meets with Arafat. (CSM, WP 3/30; JP 4/11)

In Amman, PA Local Government M Erakat briefs Jordan's Dep. PM Anani on U.S. special envoy Ross's mtgs. with Arafat. (JTV 3/29 in WNC 3/31)

In Washington, senior Israeli diplomats meet with AIPAC leaders at the Israeli amb.'s residence to discuss AIPAC efforts to have congressmen sign a letter urging the U.S. not to pressure Israel on FRD. AIPAC exec. dir. Howard Kohr denies group is coordinating lobbying efforts with the Israeli government, claims letter was initiated independently by Sens. Joseph Lieberman (D-CT), Connie Mack (R-FL); emb. wanted briefing on the letter by AIPAC rather than the senators themselves because, according to Kohr, "No one knows more about the Hill than us." (NYT 4/26)

The body of Hamas mbr. Muhieddin Sharif is found in the debris of a car explosion in Ramallah, in area A. Israel claims he was making a car bomb, but PA autopsy shows that he died from 3 gunshot wounds hours before the explosion. Sharif has been on the top of Israel's wanted list for 2 yrs. (MM 4/1; ITV 4/1, 4/2 in WNC 4/4; CSM, MM, WJW, WP, WT 4/2; MM 4/7; MEI 4/10; PR 4/17)

PSF announces seizure of 7 arms caches, weapons factories belonging to Hamas. (MM 4/14)

In Dura nr. Hebron, Palestinians demonstrate following the funeral for 3 Palestinian laborers killed by the IDF 3/10; 32 Palestinians, 1 Israeli border policeman are injured. Palestinians also protest in Bethlehem and Ramallah, where IDF injures 9 Palestinians. Also nr. Ramallah, a Jewish settler whose car is hit by a stone opens fire with live ammunition, wounding 1 Palestinian. PA, Israeli security forces hold emergency mtgs. on containing the violence. (MM 3/11; CSM, NYT, WP, WT 3/12; WT 3/13)

PM Netanyahu appoints Reserve Maj. Gen. Meir Dagan as his adviser on intelligence affairs. The new position, recommended in the Ciechanover report (see 2/16), was created to enhance coordination btwn. the PM, the intelligence bodies. (YA 3/11 in WNC 3/12)

Based on legislation passed by Congress in 1996, U.S. district judge orders Iran to pay the family of Alisa Flatow, killed in an Islamic Jihad suicide bombing in Israel 4/95, $247.5 m. in damages. The court heard no evidence that Iran planned, carried out the attack, but lawyers presented testimony fr. fmr. FBI, Israeli intelligence officials that Iran has funded Islamic Jihad. Administration officials say "this case is not what we needed at this time" when the U.S. is trying to renew relations with Iran. (WT 3/12; MM 3/24) (see 2/26/97)

American Friends of Lubavitch (AFL) hosts its 5th annual Purim party for Capitol Hill staffers. AFL also hosts an annual Hanukkah party; plans to start bimonthly discussion groups, a mentoring program where senior Jewish staffers can help younger staffers just starting their careers. All projects are meant to "make politically minded Jews more politically involved." (WJW 3/26)

Donor's 2-day Consultative Group mtg. opens in Paris, reviews PA's Palestinian Development Program for 1998+n2000. (PR 12/19, 1/2)

The Israeli cabinet begins debate on ministerial team proposals for size of area to be retained by Israel in a final agmt., reaches no conclusion. Netanyahu criticizes EU, U.S. for pressuring Israel on FRD issue. During the cabinet session, 100s of West Bank settlers protest government willingness to discuss FRD. (ITV 12/14 in WNC 12/16; CSM, MM, NYT 12/15)

Asst. Secy. of State Indyk meets with PM Netanyahu; holds 2d mtg. with Israeli DM Mordechai, focuses on Iran's missile development program; then heads to Jordan, meets with Crown Prince Hasan. (RJ 12/14, QY 12/15 in WNC 12/16; MA 12/15 in WNC 12/17)

Iranian pres. Muhammad Khatami calls for dialogue with the U.S. (MM, NYT, WP, WT 12/15; MA, QY, YA 12/15 in WNC 12/16; MEI 12/19)

As part of a bid to win Pollard's release, Netanyahu sends letter of support to Pollard, stating "the entire nation is concerned by your continued imprisonment." Some senior Israeli FMin. officials reportedly disapprove of the "festival of ministerial visits" to Pollard. (WP, WT 12/15; WJW 12/18) (see 12/12)

Nation of Islam leader Louis Farrakhan makes unscheduled visit to Ramallah via Jordan to meet with Arafat. Israel denied a visa to Farrakhan, who is on a 52-nation world tour, unless he publicly apologizes for past declarations viewed as anti-Semitic by Israel. (NYT, WP, WT 12/15; NYT, WP, WT 12/16; WJW 12/18; WT 12/22)

EU special envoy Moratinos meets separately with Arafat, Netanyahu. Arafat then heads to Jordan for talks with King Hussein. King Hussein telephones U.S. Secy. of State Albright, Egypt's Pres. Mubarak, PM Netanyahu to discuss mediation btwn. the PA, Israel.  (MM 8/4; AFP 8/4 in WNC 8/5; RJ 8/4, 8/5 in WNC 8/6; MM, WT 8/5; MM 8/8)

Despite warnings fr. the U.S. that the decision could exacerbate the present situation, Israeli cabinet approves list of retributive measures against the PA drawn up by the inner cabinet 7/31, blocks transfer of $15 m. in tax payments owed the PA. Netanyahu says he will use a "sliding scale," relaxing some of the economic measures as the PA takes steps against Islamists. (MM, NYT 8/5; al-Ayyam [Ramallah], YA 8/5 in WNC 8/6; CSM 8/6; al-Hayat al-Jadida 8/10 in WNC 8/12; WP 8/14)

Israel arrest 29 Palestinians suspected of "terrorist activity," demolishes 5 Palestinian homes allegedly built without permits in East Jerusalem. Since the bombing, Israel has arrested 145 Palestinians. Arafat calls the actions collective punishment meant to humiliate the Palestinians. (IDF Radio, ITV 8/4 in WNC 8/5; LAW, NYT, WP, WT 8/5; MM 8/8)

Iran's Khatami is sworn in as pres. (CSM 8/5)

An elite Israeli Egoz unit is flown n. of Israel's self-declare security zone in s. Lebanon; plants explosives nr. the home of 2 Hizballah cmdrs.; later detonates them by remote control, killing 5 Hizballah mbrs., wounding 2 Hizballah mbrs. and 3 civilians. (MM 8/4; AFP, ITV, RL, RMC 8/4 in WNC 8/5; MM, NYT 8/5; NYT, WT 8/6; Independent [London] 8/6 in WNC 8/7; WJW 8/7; JP 8/16)

Top PA negotiations, Saeb Erakat and Hasan Asfour, arrive in Cairo to discuss Egypt's mediaton effort with Israel. (AFP 5/31 in WNC 6/3; ITV 5/31 in WNC 6/5)

Palestinian Ali Muhammad Jumhur, recently questioned by the PA on suspicion of having sold land to Jews, is found shot dead in Ramallah. Israel blames the PA. PA police do not comment. (NYT, WP, WT 6/1; ITV, QY 6/1 in WNC 6/3; WJW 6/5; PR 6/6; JP 6/7; MEI 6/13; JP 6/14) (see 5/29)

A 2d Palestinian accused of selling land to Israelis, Harbi Abu Sara, is found slain nr. Ramallah. The PA, which declared 5/5 that any Palestinian who sells land to Jews would face the death penalty, denies any involvement. (ITV 5/18 in WNC 5/22; NYT, WP 5/19; IDF Radio 5/19 in WNC 5/21; WP 5/20; LAW 5/21; WJW 5/22, 5/29; JP 531) (see 5/9, 5/11)

9 days after his murder, slain Palestinian land dealer Farid Bashiti is secretly buried. His family had been unable to find a place to bury him earlier due to allegations that he had sold Palestinian land to Jews. (NYT, WT 5/19; LAW 5/21) (see 5/11)

In a Jerusalem court, Israel's most-wanted Hamas mbr. Hassan Salameh, who was captured by the IDF 5/17/96, pleads guilty to 46 counts of murder resulting fr. suicide bombings he plotted. (WP 5/19) (see 7/4/96)

Jordanian journalists issue statement, vowing to oppose King Hussein's new press law. All mbrs. of the Jordan Press Assn., governing mbrs. of the Jordanian Professional Assns. threaten to resign if the law is not revoked. (RMC 5/18 in WNC 5/22; MM, WT 5/19; JT 5/19, 5/20 in WNC 5/21) (see 5/17)

U.S. special envoy Ross holds separate mtgs. with Israeli DM Mordechai, PA's Arafat; makes no progress. (AFP 5/9 in WNC 5/12; MEI 5/16)

PSF, Shin Bet, CIA representatives meet in Tel Aviv to discuss resuming Israeli-PA security cooperation. Shin Bet head Ami Aylon refuses to attend the mtg. in anger over PA claims that the Shin Bet was behind 2 suicide bombings 4/1 (see 5/4). (AFP, IDF Radio 5/9 in WNC 5/12; MM 5/13; NYT 5/17)

In Ramallah, Farid Bashiti, an East Jerusalem Palestinian accused of selling Arab homes and land to Jews, is found dead. Israeli police open an investigation. At Friday prayers at al-Aqsa, the PA-appointed mufti of Jerusalem, Ekrima Sabri, says Bashiti must not be prayed over or buried in a Muslim cemetery. (NYT, WP, WT 5/10; WT 5/11; IDF Radio 5/11 in WNC 5/13; WJW 5/15; MEI, PR 5/16; WJW 5/22) (see 5/5)

IDF destroys the foundations of a new UNRWA school in Abu-Dis, says the building permit was granted by mistake. The construction project is funded by donor countries. (PR 5/16)

In Amman, PM Majali, Iraqi dep. PM Aziz discuss bolstering bilateral relations, forming a united Arab stand on the peace process. (al-Dustur 5/10 in WNC 5/13)

In Beirut, a Lebanese court sentences Samir Ja`Ja` to life with hard labor for the attempted murder of Michel al-Murr in 3/91. 3 accomplices are each given 20 yrs. with hard labor. 2 others are acquitted. (RL 5/9 in WNC 5/13)

FBI begins investigating whether a "senior U.S. government official" has been passing highly sensitive information to Israel. U.S. officials say that in 1/97, the National Security Agency intercepted a transmission btwn. 2 Israeli intelligence officers in Washington and Tel Aviv, discussing a request by Israeli Amb. to the U.S. Eliahu Ben-Elissar to activate a alleged mole code-named Mega to obtain the secret letter of assurances fr. fmr. Secy. of State Christopher to Arafat, which was attached to the Hebron protocol and has never been made public. The transmission suggests that Mega has provide information to Israel in the past. Israel denies spying. (WP 5/7; NYT, WP 5/8; MM 5/8; IDF Radio, ITV, YA 5/8 in WNC 5/9; MM, WP, WT 5/9; SANA 5/12 in WNC 5/13; MEI 5/16; JP 5/17)

Arafat, Israeli pres. Weizman meet in advance of U.S. special envoy Ross's arrival 5/8. (MM, WT 5/6; ITV 5/6 in WNC 5/7; CSM, MM, NYT, WP 5/7; AFP, YA 5/7 in WNC 5/8; WJW 5/8; JP 5/10; MM 5/12)

After Arafat-Weizman mtg., an Israeli-PA-U.S. security mtg. is held to discuss resuming coordination. (MM 5/7; ITV 5/7 in WNC 5/8)

Egyptian pres. Mubarak accepts Iran's invitation to attend the 12/97 OIC mtg. in Tehran but says that Egypt is not considering resuming diplomatic relations with Iran (severed after Egypt signed its peace treaty with Israel in 1979). (WT 5/7)

Iran's FM Velayati arrives in Beirut for mtg. with FM Buwayz. (VOL 5/6 in WNC 5/7; IRNA 5/7 in WNC 5/8)

Israeli police forcibly evacuate 30 Jewish settlers fr. a shack they had set up nr. Nablus in an attempt to expand Yitzhar settlement. (MM, NYT 5/7; IDF Radio 5/7 in WNC 5/8; PR 5/16)

IDF demolishes 2 Palestinian homes in Jerusalem, Ramallah for being constructed without a permit. (LAW 5/6; PR 5/16) (see 5/5)

A bomb explosion in s. Lebanon blamed on Israel kills 2 civilians, injures 2. A 2d bomb at the same site is dismantled. In a separate incident, Israeli planes attack suspected Hizballah targets in the Biqa` Valley, injuring 1 civilian. (RL, VOL 5/6 in WNC 5/7; WP 5/7)

PM Netanyahu arrives in Washington for AIPAC conference, holds talks with Pres. Clinton, Secy. of State Albright (MM 4/7; MM, NYT, WP, WT 4/8; ITV 4/8 in WNC 4/9; CSM, NYT 4/9; MA, La Repubblica [Rome] 4/9 in WNC 4/10; al-Thawra [Damascus] 4/9, RE, RL 4/10 in WNC 4/11; PR 4/11; al-Ahram [Cairo] 4/11 in WNC 4/17; WJW 4/17; MEI 4/18; MM 4/28)

In Amman, Jordan's Crown Prince Hassan, Arafat dep. Mahmud Abbas discuss Jordanian-PA coordination on political, economic issues. (RJ 4/7 in WNC 4/8)

In preparation for trial, Jordanian military team visits Israel to interview victims of the 3/13 Daqamsa shooting. (JT 4/9 in WNC 4/10) (see 3/27)

Vatican says that it has reached a critical stage in its relations with Israel, that Israel should renew its commitment to peace for normalization to progress further. (WJW 4/17)

In Moscow, Lebanese PM Hariri, Russian PM Viktor Chernomyrdin, Dep. FM Yevgeny Primakov discuss peace process, bilateral relations. (RL 4/7 in WNC 4/8; RL 4/8 in WNC 4/9)

In Manhattan, federal prosecutors for the Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) open exclusion proceedings against Hamas political leader Abu Marzuq. Abu Marzuq is willing to withdraw his application to reenter the U.S. and agree to exclusion (i.e., immediate deportation), but INS says he cannot do so without either conceding or contesting the terrorism charge, otherwise he could be detained indefinitely. Abu Marzuq refuses to concede; contesting the charge could take yrs. The exclusion proceeding is closed; the INS does not have to reveal the sources of its evidence. (MM 4/8; NYT 4/13; WJW 4/17; MEI 4/18) (see 4/3)

The Knesset Finance Comm. agrees (by vote of 6-5) to demand that the PA detail the use of funds in its Bank Leumi account. Some MKs suspect the account is a secret petty cash fund. (Globes [Internet] 4/7 in WNC 4/9)

In Kharbata village nr. Ramallah, a Jewish settler opens fire with an M-16, handgun on Palestinians who stone his car, wounding 2. Villagers say the settler is known for intimidating local Palestinians, driving through the village instead of using the Jewish-only bypass road. (MM 4/7; WT 4/8)

Islamic University of Hebron holds student council elections. Hamas-Islamic Jihad list wins 19 of 35 seats; pro-Arafat Fatah lists wins 15 seats; PFLP 1 seat. (WT 4/8; MEI, PR 4/18; JP 4/19)

The Kuwaiti government denies the Comm. for the Defense of Islamic Issues permission to stage a rally outside parliament to protest Israel's policies on Jerusalem, U.S. support for Israeli actions. (AFP 4/7 in WNC 4/8)

SLA exchanges 3 Hizballah mbrs. being held at al-Khiyam prison in s. Lebanon for 1 SLA soldier held by Hizballah. (RL 4/7 in WNC 4/8)

In Jerusalem, PA negotiator Erakat, Netanyahu adviser Molho exchange lists of negotiators on the 8 subcomms. that will continue talks on implementing issues outstanding fr. Oslo II. (ITV 1/28 in WNC 1/30; PR 1/31)

Arafat makes brief trip to Jordan to meet with King Hussein. (RJ 1/28 in WNC 1/29; JTV 1/28 in WNC 1/30)

Syrian VP Khaddam, FM Shara` arrive in the UAE for talks with Pres. Shaykh Zayid bin Sultan al-Nahayat. (MM 1/29, SATN 1/29 in WNC 1/30)

Belgium increases its 1997 allocation to the PA by $710,000 (to $9.29 m.) to fund a project to supply 380 villages around Nablus with electricity. (Libre Belgique 1/29 in WNC 1/31)

Lawyers for Hamas political leader Musa Abu Marzuq say he is dropping his extradition fight in order to emphasize unjust, illegal Israeli and U.S. judicial practices. (MM 1/28; WP, WT 1/29; WP 1/30; AFP, RMC 1/30 in WNC 1/31; PR 1/31; CSM 2/4; WJW 2/6; MEI 2/7) (see 10/9/96)

IDF demolishes 4 Palestinian homes nr. Ramallah, in area C, for having no permits. (LAWE 2/13) (see 1/23)

Chief of the U.S. Central Command Gen. J.H. Binford Peay says that Iraqi Pres. Saddam Hussein has placed his 1st wife, Sajida Talfah, and 2 daughters under house arrest, because of disputes over the murder of Saddam's 2 sons-in-law (2/23/96). Saddam's son Uday may lose a leg, be paralyzed as a result of the 12/12 assassination attempt. 600 people, incl. 20 senior military officers, have been arrested in connection with the shooting. (WP 1/29; AFP 2/1 in WNC 2/4; WT 2/5; WP 2/10) (see 1/19)

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)

Consultative Group meets in Paris. (MM 11/20; CSM, MM, WT 11/21; al-Quds 11/25 in WNC 11/29; WJW 11/28)

Speaker of the European Parliament, Klaus Hansach, addresses the PA Palestinian Council (PC) in Ramallah, calls for expediting the Israeli-PA negotiations. (PR 11/29)

Israel issues 14-page report alleging major violations of the Oslo accords by the PA, accusing PA leaders of deliberately stirring up the riots that followed the 9/24 tunnel opening. (WT 12/19)

U.S. Sen. Arlen Specter (R-PA) meets with PM Netanyahu in Israel; heads to Damascus to deliver message to Pres. Asad, discuss obstacles to the peace process; returns to Israel to brief PM Netanyahu. According to Specter's aides, no new basis for resuming negotiations was offered by Israel. This is Specter's 2d such trip recently; on 8/28 he transmitted a letter fr. Netanyahu to Asad in Damascus. (SATN 11/20 in WNC 11/22; MM 11/21, 11/22)

In Beirut, Hizballah Gen. Secy. Hasan Nasrallah, French Amb. Jean-Pierre La Fond hold their 1st mtg., discuss work of the Israel-Lebanon Monitoring Comm. (ILMG). (al-Safir 11/21 in WNC 11/25)

IDF eases general closure, allowing 20,000 Palestinian workers fr. West Bank, 15,000 fr. Gaza into their jobs in Israel. Qarni crossing point is opened to imports, exports without restriction. Merchandise may transferred fr. Gaza to Jordan. (NYT 11/11)

IDF clashes with Palestinians protesting expansion of Kiryat Sefer settlement nr. Ramallah, wounding 12 and killing Atallah Amira, who had papers proving his ownership of the disputed land and had been fighting a legal battle with the Israeli government to reclaim it. (MM, NYT 11/11; WJW, WP 11/14; NYT 11/15; MEI 11/22) (see 9/22)

Jordan, U.S. sign aviation agmt., giving American, Jordanian national carriers the freedom to travel to and fr. any location within the boundaries of both countries. It is the U.S.'s 1st "open skies" agmt. with a non-EU country. (JTV 11/10 in WNC 11/14)

In s. Lebanon, 2 IDF soldiers are wounded in clash with Hizballah. (RL 11/10 in WNC 11/13; MM 11/11; WJW 11/14; JP 11/16)

In Tel Aviv, Israeli, PA talks on civil authority in Hebron reportedly reach agmt. Later in the day, talks on Hebron security resume in Jerusalem. U.S. special envoy Ross thinks an agmt. can be reached within the next 2 wks. (RJ 10/22 in WNC 10/25; MM, NYT, WP, WT 10/23; WJW 10/24)

French Pres. Chirac visits East Jerusalem. (MM 10/22; IDF Radio 10/22 in WNC 10/23; LCI 10/22 in WNC 10/25; NYT, WP, WT 10/23; CSM, MM 10/24; MEI 10/25; JP 11/2; MEI 11/8)

In Beirut, Lebanese, French officials negotiate aspects of a partnership agmt. that they hope to sign by the end of the year. Outstanding issues (agriculture, rights of institutions and serviced, immigration) must wait until new Lebanese government is formed. (RL 10/22 in WNC 10/24)

Nr. Ramallah, IDF shoots (live ammunition), kills Palestinian youth during antisettlement protest. Also in the West Bank, a Palestinian motorist is killed when his car is fired upon nr. Ofra settlement. (MM 10/22; LAWE 10/23)

YA reports that several Turkish air force crews recently participated in joint training, military exercises with the Israeli air force in the Negev. (YA 10/22 in IL 10/22)

Lebanon's Press Association Council complains that "newspapers are not exercising . . . self-censorship," are publishing topics banned under the new media law (see 9/17); orders newspapers to cease publishing direct interviews with Israeli officials. (al-Nahar 10/23 in WNC 10/24) (see 10/2)

Birri is reelected as Lebanon's parliamentary speaker. (RL 10/22 in WNC 10/24; WT 10/23)

PA team walks out of talks with Israel over issues of Hebron security arrangements. U.S. special envoy Ross's announcement that he is returning to Washington today as planned brings the sides back to the table. After several hrs. of talks, Ross decides to stay on, saying the PA, Israel are "in the midst of the most promising discussions to date." (MM 10/21; ITV 10/21 in WNC 10/23; CSM, MM, NYT, WP, WT 10/22; CSM, NYT, WP, WT 10/23; WJW 10/24; MEI, PR 10/25; JP 11/2)

French Pres. Chirac visits Israel; gives speech at Techion University; makes last-minute visit to the Knesset, but does not address it. Health Secy. Hervé Gaymard visits Orient House. (MM 10/21; LCI 10/21 in WNC 10/22; JP, YA 10/21 in WNC 10/23; NYT, WP, WT 10/22; MM, WP 10/23; MEI, PR 10/25; NYT, WT 10/27; JP 11/2)

Israeli High Council of Planning refuses building permits for 5 Palestinian families, clearing the way for the demolition of their West Bank homes. (LAWE 10/21)

In the Knesset, Netanyahu government loses (43-45) vote of confidence on its economic policy. (ITV 10/21 in WNC 10/23; WP 10/22)

Outside Ofra settlement nr. Ramallah, settlers kill Palestinian in drive by shooting. (LAWE 10/23)

PA-Israeli talks continue at Erez without progress. As a compromise, PA proposes formation of a joint security headquarters in Hebron to command mobile and permanent units that would incl. riot and assault forces; Israel is not enthusiastic but says it will consider the idea. (RJ 10/8 in WNC 10/10; CSM 10/9; MA, YA 10/9 in IL 10/9; PR 10/11; IDF Radio 10/11 in WNC 10/15; WT 10/12) (see 10/7)

At his meeting with Pres. Weizman in Israel, Arafat says that he has given a "permanent order" to PA policemen not to fire at IDF troops. (CSM, MM 10/8; IDF Radio 10/8 in WNC 10/11; CSM, MM, NYT, WP, WT 10/9; WJW 10/10; MEI 10/18; JP 10/19) (see 8/25)

Israel demands that the PA punish policemen involved in fire fights with IDF troops, disarm Palestinian civilians; says soldiers at checkpoint nr. Nablus have already begun checking IDs in search for policemen involved in fight at Joseph's tomb 9/26. (WP 10/9)

Israel announces it will allow 10,000 Palestinian workers into Israel, eases blockade on Ramallah and Hebron. (NYT, WP, WT 10/9; PR 10/11)

In Israel's 1st move to expand settlements, DM Mordechai approves placement of 298 government-owned mobile homes in Jewish settlements for public, educational use; admits units will be used primarily as living quarters. PM Netanyahu claims interim agmt. with PA does not prohibit Jews fr. building settlements on occupied land. PA protests. (QY 8/12 in FBIS 8/13; MM, WT 8/13; VOP 8/13 in FBIS 8/13; CSM, MM, WP 8/14; JP 8/24)

Israel demolishes 6 Palestinian homes: 1 in Jerusalem built without a permit, 2 n. of Jerusalem to make way for a bypass road, 3 nr. Ramallah. (PR 8/23) (see 8/6)

Israel's Interior M Eliyahu Suissa says $5 m. will be reallocated fr. local governments to settlements to help Jewish settlers pay expenses resulting fr. the Oslo agmts. (QY 8/12 in FBIS 8/12; MM 8/13; WT 8/14; WJW, WP, WT 8/15; JP 8/24)

PA arrests Adameer Exec. Dir. Muhammad Dahman, accuses him of fabricating 8/11 story of Dahlan's death in custody. (MM 8/15; PR 8/16)

Turkish PM Erbakan signs $23-b. natural gas deal with Iran; says Iran may use the Turkish ports of Trabzon, Iskenderun for trade with foreign countries. U.S. considers this a provocative challenge to its policy on Iran. (CSM, MM 8/12: MM 8/13; Hurriyet [Istanbul], Turkish Daily News 8/13 in WNC 8/21) (see 8/5, 8/11)

Republican National Convention adopts party platform, incl. paragraph on the Middle East. (NYT 8/13)

Israel seals Ramallah, preventing Palestinians fr. leaving the city, after PSF mbrs. allegedly abduct an Israeli Arab fr. East Jerusalem in connection with a land dispute with the Coptic Church there. PSF says it arrested, did not kidnap, `Abd al-Salam al-Hirbawi. (WT 7/21; QY 7/20, JMCC, QY, VOP 7/21 in FBIS 7/22; WT 7/22; JP 7/27; MEI 8/2)

For the 2d wk., street clashes erupt btwn. over 10,000 orthodox, secular Jews over plans to close Jerusalem's Bar Ilan Street during Sabbath. 2,500 riot police attempt to keep order. (NYT 7/21; CSM 8/6; WJW 8/8) (see 7/13)

PC closes weekly 2-day session in Ramallah. (VOP 7/11 in FBIS 7/12)

PM Netanyahu heads to New York to meet with 200 leaders of the U.S. financial community, mbrs. of the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations (CPMAJO), ambs. to the UN, presidential candidate Bob Dole. At CMPAJO mtg., Netanyahu recommends Jewish organizations finance 2 programs to fight assimilation of Jews: a "physical and spiritual airlift" of 100,000s of young Jews to Israel for summer tours, wedding gifts of 10 "basic Jewish books" to every Jewish couple who marries. (MM 7/11; MM, NYT, WP 7/12; QY 7/12 in FBIS 7/12; WP 7/13; WJW 7/18)

Fmr. Israeli PM Peres sharply criticizes PM Netanyahu, calls his statements fr. the U.S. "an unwise attempt to unite the Arab world against us." (IDF Radio 7/11 in FBIS 7/12; MM 7/12, 7/16)

PA announces plans to use 12 acres of state land in Nablus to build headquarters for Arafat. Villagers protest, say they own the land, accuse PA of confiscation. Nablus municipality says those protesting have no legal right to the plot. (PR 7/19)

Nr. Tulkarm, IDF uses teargas to disperse 10s of Palestinian workers protesting closure at IDF crossing point into Israel. (QY 7/11 in FBIS 7/11)

PC ends 2-day session in Ramallah. (VOP 6/20 in FBIS 6/21; PR 6/28)

Israel further eases closure, permitting Palestinian trucks to enter Israel for the 1st time in 3 mos., Palestinian prisoners to receive visitors. (CSM 6/21) (see 6/5)

PSF, Israeli officials meet in Gaza. PSF head Muhammad Dahlan says he can prevent Hamas attacks during 1st 100 days of new Israeli government but is rapidly losing support on the street for the PA's continued crackdown on Hamas; after 100 days he can make no guarantees. (QY 6/21 in FBIS 6/21)

After talks with the PA, the Qassam Brigades offers Israel a freeze on military action "for a specific period, which is renewable," in exchange for a halt to Israel's crackdown on Hamas. (QY 6/20 in FBIS 6/20; AFP, JMCC 6/20 in FBIS 6/21; CSM, NYT, WP, WT 6/21)

State Dept. hands Israeli defense officials an intelligence report, containing classified CIA information, alleging Israel has transferred U.S. military avionics--incl. advanced radar-detection system, electronic warfare equipment--to China. Israel denies transaction. (WT 6/19; QY 6/20 in FBIS 6/21; WJW 8/22) (see 1/8/95)

Bus bomb goes of in Jerusalem, killing 19, wounding 10. Bomber is identified as a man fr. Hebron (see 2/26). Yahya Ayyash Units again claims responsibility, criticizes the Qassam Brigades for the 2/29 leaflet, offers its own 3-mo. cease-fire. PM Peres calls for total war on Hamas; reimposes full closure on West Bank, Gaza, incl. banning the entry into Israel of medical, humanitarian, VIP cases. Saying "not only Israelis will suffer from now on," he vows to seal or destroy the houses of the bombers' families, revives plan for national separation last suggested 10/19/94. (see also 10/19/94, 5/30/95). (WP 3/3; IDF Radio, ITV, JMCC, QPAR, QY, RJ, VOP, YA 3/3, QY 3/4 in FBIS 3/4; CSM, MM, NYT, WP 3/4; MM 3/5; PR 3/8; MEI 3/15; WJW 3/7, 3/21)

After the bombing, a mob of 100s of Israelis races toward the Old City, calling for revenge against Palestinians. Fearing a major clash, Israeli mounted police force the crowd back. Skirmishes between police, groups of angry Israeli youths erupt repeatedly throughout the day. IDF prohibits Israelis fr. entering PA areas. (QY 3/3, 3/4 in FBIS 3/4; NYT, WP 3/4)

Israel suspends indefinitely talks with Syria in Maryland in light of the bombing but leaves the negotiating team in Washington in hopes of resuming talks soon. (QY 3/3, HA 3/4 in FBIS 3/4; MM, NYT 3/4)

PA police arrest over 120 Hamas mbrs. in Gaza, bringing total number of Hamas men arrested in the past wk. to 380; raid Ramallah teacher's college. (MM 3/4; QY 3/4 in FBIS 3/4; QY 3/4 in FBIS 3/5; MM 3/5)

Arafat is sworn in as pres. of the PA; takes his oath on the Qur'an in front of PNC head Salim Za'nun, while PA police band plays Palestinian national anthem. (CSM, NYT, WT 2/13; WJW 2/15)

U.S. State Dept. says start date of next round of Syrian-Israeli talks has been moved to 2/28 because of scheduling conflicts. (MM 2/13)

After 1st banning Palestinians fr. Qalqilya, Ramallah fr. entering Israel, the IDF seals the West Bank, Gaza until further notice, citing security concerns related to the end of the 40-day mourning period for Ayyash, coming end of Ramadan. (QY, VOP 2/12 in FBIS 2/12; VOP 2/12, 2/13 in FBIS 2/13; CSM, MM 2/13; NYT 2/14)

200 Palestinians protests IDF construction at Rachel's Tomb in Bethlehem. (WT 2/13)

2 SLA soldiers are killed, 1 wounded in roadside bombing in s. Lebanon. (QY, VOL 2/12 in FBIS 2/13)

10,000 Palestinians greet Arafat as arrives for his 1st visit to Ramallah since the IDF pulled out. Arafat then heads to Tulkarm, Qalqilya to celebrate the IDF's withdrawal there. (NYT, WP, WT 12/31; JP 1/6)

Hamas mbrs. Isma'il Haniyya, Khalid al-Hindi, Sa'id al-Namruti say the will run for seats on the Palestinian Council as independents. (JMCC 12/30 in FBIS 1/2)

In Madrid, PA, Spain sign joint cooperation agmt. (PWR 1/9)

PSF releases al-Quds editor `Alami (arrested 12/27). (QY 12/31 in FBIS 1/2; NYT, WP 1/1; FT 1/3; CSM, WJW 1/4; JP 1/6)

After a Lebanese civilian is killed, 4 others wounded by IDF shelling, Hizballah fires rockets into n. Israel, wounds 2 IDF soldiers in clash in s. Lebanon. Israel blames Syria. (ITV, QY 12/30, QY 12/31, ITV 1/1 in FBIS 1/2; NYT, WT 12/31; MM 1/2; JP 1/6)

PA assumes control of Ramallah, al-Bireh. (WT 12/27; QY, VOP 12/27 in FBIS 12/28; CSM, NYT, WP, WT 12/28; NYT 12/31; JP 1/6)

After a 6-mo. hiatus, 3 days of initial talks btwn. Syria, Israel open in Maryland. Israeli team is headed by FM Dir. Gen. Uri Savir, incl. Amb. to the U.S. Itamar Rabinovich, head of IDF planning branch Maj. Gen. Uzi Dayan. Syrian team is led by Amb. to the U.S. Walid Mu`allim, FMin. Political Dept. head Juwayjati. (CSM, WP, WT 12/27; HA, MA, QY, SARR, VOL, YA 12/28 in FBIS 12/28; NYT, WJW, WT 12/28)

Israeli cabinet criticizes PM Peres for increasing the number of seats on the Palestinian Council without its approval. (IDF Radio 12/27 in FBIS 12/28) (see 12/25)

PM Peres's coalition government defeats 2 no-confidence motions against returning the Golan Heights to Syria. (CSM 12/28)

Preventive Security Force (PSF) arrests editor Maher al-`Alami after he ignores Arafat's request to run an article on Arafat's mtg. with the Greek Orthodox patriarch of Jerusalem on the front page of al-Quds. (NYT, WT 12/28; WT 1/1; MM 1/2; FT 1/3; MM, WJW 1/4)

Israeli Aircraft Industries (IAI) says Arrow missile project has overrun its budget by millions of dollars because of problems in the early stages of development. IAI may ask project cofunders, the U.S. and Israeli DMin., to cover the unanticipated costs. (HA 12/27 in FBIS 12/27)