The Palestine Chronology

As the Knesset begins debate on ratification of the 10/23 Wye River Memorandum, Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu suspends the agmt.'s implementation, saying he will not carry out the 1st of 3 stages of further redeployment (FRD) required by Wye until PA head Yasir Arafat retracts his 11/15 threat to stage an uprising against Israel if Palestinian access to Jerusalem is blocked. (MM 11/16; CSM, NYT, WP, WT 11/17; WJW 11/19)

U.S. special envoy Dennis Ross meets with Arafat in Jericho. (ITV 11/16 in WNC 11/18; WT 11/17)

In Cairo, Netanyahu political adviser Uzi Arad discusses Wye agmt. with Egyptian FM `Amr Musa, who criticizes Israeli implementation delays. (MENA 11/16 in WNC 11/17, WNC 11/18)

In Gaza, Israel, Jordan, the U.S. meet to discuss the Irbid industrial zone project. (Petra-JNA 11/17 in WNC 11/19; JT 11/23 in WNC 11/24; Petra-JNA 11/23 in WNC 11/30)

In Cairo, Russia, Egypt hold high-level experts mtg. on defense cooperation. Russian DM hopes deepening military ties "will become an important factor of peace and stability in the Middle East." (Interfax, ITAR-TASS, MENA 11/16 in WNC 11/17; MENA 11/17 in WNC 11/18)

After 3 days of talks, Oman, Iran reach military cooperation agmt. to enhance Gulf security, which will include joint exercises. (IRNA 11/16 in WNC 11/17)

PM Netanyahu announces creation of Birthright Israel program, which will pay for any Jew aged 15+n26 to visit Israel in hopes of rebuilding Jewish identity of youth, who more frequently marry non-Jews, are nonpracticing. The program, expected to cost $300 m., will be funded by the Israeli government, major North American Jewish donors, the Council of Jewish Federations. (NYT 11/16; WJW 11/19, 11/26, 1/7)

Citing Israeli FM Ariel Sharon's 11/15 call for settlers to "grab" disputed West Bank land, 30 settlers fr. Keddumim set up "presettlement" on nearby hilltop. (MM 11/17; MA 11/17 in WNC 11/18; WT 11/19)

Palestinians in al-Khader protest confiscation of land for bypass road. (CSM 11/17)

Israel Defense Force (IDF) convoy triggers roadside bomb in s. Lebanon, killing 3 soldiers, wounding 4. Hizballah claims responsibility. (AFP, ITV, RL 11/16 in WNC 11/17; MM, WP 11/17; WT 11/18; MEI 11/27; JP 11/30)

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)

PA, Israeli security teams work on draft security MOU. (QY 10/15 in WNC 10/16) (see 10/6)

Unidentified gunmen open fire on 2 Israelis at a spring nr. Jerusalem, killing 1. IDF places curfew on the nearby Palestinian village of Walaja. (MM 10/13; MM, NYT, WP, WT 10/14; MA 10/14 in WNC 10/16; CSM, WJW 10/15; JP 10/29)

Turkish DM Ismet Sezgin says that PKK leader Ocalan has left Syria, that Syria has closed some PKK camps, which could help defuse tensions. Meanwhile, Ocalan tells PKK mbrs. to prepare for end to cease-fire on Turkey (see 9/1). (ATL, MIL 10/13 in WNC 10/14; MM, WP, WT 10/14; MENA, MIL, VOA 10/14 in WNC 10/15; ATL 10/15 in WNC 10/16; HUR 10/19 in WNC 10/20; MED Television 10/19 in WNC 10/22) (see 10/12)

Lebanese parliament amends the constitution to allow the election of Gen. Lahoud as the next pres. on 10/15. Only 4 legislators, all associated with Druze leader Walid Junblatt, opposed amending article 49, which requires senior public employees to leave their posts 2 yrs. before seeking the presidency. (RL 10/13 in WNC 10/14; WP, WT 10/14; al-Quds al-Arabi 10/14 in WNC 10/27) (see 10/5)

Israel eases closure on the occupied territories, allowing 25,000 Palestinian workers, 8,000 businessmen into Israel; but says it will not be lifted until after Washington talks. The curfew on Palestinians in Israeli-controlled Hebron, imposed 9/30, is lifted. (HA [Internet] 10/13; ITV 10/14 in WNC 10/16; NYT 10/15; MEI 10/16)

U.S. special envoy Ross meets with PM Netanyahu, then with Arafat. Ross also meets with Israeli pres. Ezer Weizman, who urges him to pressure Israel into accepting U.S. initiatives. (MM 9/10; ITV 9/10, MA 9/11 in WNC 9/14; NYT 9/11; MM 9/14)

100 IDF troops storm house nr. Hebron, killing Imad, `Adil Awadallah--wanted by Israel for staging attacks for Hamas. Some Palestinians accuses the PA of collaborating with Israel to set up the raid. PA suspects that raid was timed to scuttle Ross's visit. The IDF seals the West Bank, Gaza. (MM, NYT 9/11; LAW, NYT, WP, WT 9/12; al-Ra'i, RE 9/12, AFP, al-Aswaq, MA, MENA 9/13 in WNC 9/15; YA 9/13, JT 9/14 in WNC 9/16; MM, NYT 9/14; WT 9/16; MEI, PR 9/18; JP 9/19) (see 8/25)

IDF troops fire rubber bullets, live ammunition at Palestinians protesting at Shuafat refugee camp in Jerusalem, killing a Palestinian bystander. (NYT 9/11)

Israel's Immigrant Absorption M Yuli Edelstein goes to Washington on PM Netanyahu's behalf to ask the U.S. for the 1st time to release spy for Israel Jonathan Pollard. Edelstein asks 5 congressmen to back Clinton if he pardons Pollard. (WJW 9/17; JP 9/19) (see 5/15)

A bomb explodes in s. Lebanon, killing 4 SLA mbrs., including the cmdr. for Jazzin. (VOL 9/10 in WNC 9/11) (see 8/28)

Pres. Clinton agrees to send special envoy Ross to the Middle East next wk. as part of a renewed U.S. mediation effort aimed at reaching a PA-Israeli FRD agmt. (MM 9/3; MA, YA 9/3 in WNC 9/4; MM, NYT, WP, WT 9/4; IDF Radio 9/4 in WNC 9/8; WT 9/5; ITV, YA 9/6, ITV 9/7, VOA 9/8 in WNC 9/9; al-Ba`th 9/6 in WNC 9/11; WJW 9/10; JP 9/12)

Syria opens a trade center in Iraq. (WP 9/4)

Israeli authorities begin construction of new housing units on confiscated Palestinian land to expand the West Bank settlement of Mihula. (al-Quds 9/3 in WNC 9/9)

IDF demolishes 4 Palestinian homes in the West Bank nr. Jerusalem. (WP 7/2) (see 6/23)

PA, Israeli security forces engage in 12-hr. standoff in Gaza over control of the Dayr al-Balah-Mouassi coastal road. (ITV 7/2 in WNC 7/6; MM, NYT 7/3; MM 7/6; YA 7/6 in WNC 7/7; MM 7/8; WJW 7/9; PR 7/10; JP 7/11; CSM, WT 7/13; MEI 7/17)

Hizballah attacks 18 Israeli, SLA positions across s. Lebanon using 122-mm. artillery, wounding 3 IDF soldiers, 1 SLA mbr. and marking the 1st time Hizballah has used towed artillery--a qualitative escalation. 1 Hizballah mbr. is killed, several are wounded. (IDF Radio 7/2 in WNC 7/6; MEI 7/17)

After wks. of debate, PM Netanyahu, senior advisers make final decision not to hold a national referendum on the FRD issue, despite polls that found that 62% of the public support such a vote. Netanyahu says that he will decide on holding a referendum only after an FRD agmt. has been reached. (CSM 6/25; ITV 6/25 in WNC 6/29; MM 6/26; ITV 6/28 in WNC 6/30; NYT 6/30)

In Cairo, the Arab League holds an emergency session to discuss Israel's plan for to expand Jerusalem's municipal boundaries, urges EU intervention. (RE 6/15 in WNC 6/16

In Amman, Iran, Jordan discuss expanding bilateral relations. (IRNA 6/25 in WNC 6/26)

Israel airlifts last 60 (of 3,900) Ethiopians of Jewish descent fr. Addis Ababa to Tel Aviv. (WP 6/26)

After 10 mos. of negotiations, Hizballah turns over body of IDF soldier killed in a raid on s. Lebanon 9/5/97. In exchange, Israel returns to Lebanon the bodies of 40 Amal, Hizballah mbrs. (including body of Hizballah leader Shaykh Hassan Nasrallah's son Hadi). (MM, WT 6/25; AFP, RL, RMC 6/25 in WNC 6/26; MM, NYT, WP, WT 6/26; al-Watan al-Arabi 6/26 in WNC 6/29; AFP 6/26 in WNC 6/29; WJW 7/2; MEI 7/3; JP 7/4)

In s. Lebanon, Hizballah detonates a roadside bomb, killing 2 IDF soldiers, wounding 4. (MM 6/25; AFP, VOL 6/25 in WNC 6/26; NYT, WP 6/26)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Israeli cabinet approves 8 loosely defined zones, locations in the West Bank as areas of "vital national interest" that will not be returned under any deal with the PA. (MM 1/14; ITV 1/14 in WNC 1/15; NYT, WP, WT 1/15; SA 1/15 in WNC 1/20)

Egyptian pres. Mubarak makes unscheduled trip to Damascus to discuss peace process, regional issues with Pres. Asad. (MENA 1/14 in WNC 1/15; MENA, SATN 1/14 in WNC 1/20; Tishrin 1/15 in WNC 1/21; NYT 1/16; al-Ittihad al-Usbu`i [Abu Dhabi] 1/16 in WNC 1/23; al-Dammam al-Yawm 1/25 in WNC 2/2)

In Amman, Shas leader Deri discusses peace process with King Hussein. Later the king meets with the board of the American Israel Public Affairs Comm. (AIPAC), stresses importance of Israeli adherence to Oslo agmts. (ITV, JTV 1/14 in WNC 1/20; MM 1/15; JT 1/17 in WNC 1/21) (see 1/8)

Georgian pres. Eduard Shevardnadze makes 1-day trip to Israel to discuss trade issues, sign Tbilisi-Jerusalem sister-city agmt. with PM Netanyahu. (Interfax [Moscow] 1/14 in WNC 1/15; Radio Tbilisi Network [Tbilisi] 1/19 in WNC 1/21)

Arab Parliamentary Union ends session in Luxor, Egypt; issues statement condemning "terrorism" in all its forms, affirms a people's right to national struggle to liberate occupied territory and regain national rights. (ESC Television [Cairo] 1/14 in WNC 1/15; RE 1/15 in WNC 1/20)

In Amman, Jordanian-Palestinian Transportation Comm. agrees on procedures for moving goods across the border. (JT 1/14 in WNC 1/15) (see 12/25)

In Tel Aviv, 30,000 Israelis, many bussed in fr. West Bank settlements, demonstrate against any FRD. (MM, WP 1/15)

U.S. Supreme Court begins to hear Akins vs. Federal Election Commission (FEC) case, culminating a 9-yr.-old battle in which a group of Washingtonians led by fmr. U.S. Amb. to Saudi Arabia James Akins has tried to convince the FEC that AIPAC should be regulated as a political action comm., subjecting it to strict campaign finance laws. (WJW 1/15; WJW 1/22)

In London, Jordan's King Hussein, Israel's PM Netanyahu meet for the first time since Israel's attempted assassination of Hamas political leader Khalid Mishal in Amman 9/25. (MM, WT 11/18; SA, JT 11/19 in WNC 11/21; al-Dustur, JT, Star 11/20 in WNC 11/25; JP 11/29)

Doha economic summit ends. All participants sign final communiqué, including Israel, which unsuccessfully tried to block section stressing that Oslo negotiations are based on land for peace. 2 major Jordanian, Qatari investment companies sign $25-m. partnership, industrial investment agmt. (MM 11/18; WP, WT 11/19; JT 11/19 in WNC 11/21; SA 11/19 in WNC 11/25; WJW 11/27)

At the end of a 3-wk. evaluation following a sharp rise in casualties in s. Lebanon, top IDF officials unanimously reaffirm decision to stay in s. Lebanon until an agmt. on redeployment is achieved with Lebanon, Syria. (MM 11/19; YA 11/19 in WNC 11/21)

Knesset threatens Israeli banks with prosecution if they persist in refusing to identify owners of dormant Nazi-era accounts holding an estimated total of $57 m. (WT 11/19)

In Bethlehem, a Palestinian boy is shot dead by IDF sniper guarding DM Yitzhak Mordechai on visit to Rachel's Tomb. (MEI 12/5)

IDF demolishes Palestinian home, workshop in al-Ram, n. of Jerusalem. (PR 11/21)

Employing a "dual-track" strategy of military and diplomatic pressure, Russian FM Yevgeny Primakov opens talks in Moscow with Iraqi Dep. PM Tariq `Aziz, while U.S. pres. Bill Clinton sends 12 additional military aircraft to the Gulf, authorizes cmdrs. to deploy 30 more if they deem it necessary. (MM 11/18; CSM, MM, WP, WT 11/19) (see 11/17; ITV 11/19 in WNC 11/21; MEI 11/21)

3 suicide bombers detonate explosive devices in Ben Yehuda market in Jerusalem, killing 4 Israelis, injuring 192. A faction of Hamas's military wing, the Izzeddin al-Qassam Brigades, claims responsibility. PM Netanyahu cancels a security mtg. with PA, CIA  officials, saying "we're sick of talks"; reseals borders with the West Bank, Gaza; reimposes the internal closure on PA-controlled cities; gives PA a list of 10s of Palestinians it wants arrested. PA arrests 2 Hamas leaders, 8 Hamas mbrs.; shuts Hamas newspaper in Gaza. (MM 9/4; AFP, IDF Radio, ITV, JTV, MENA, VOL 9/4, VOA 9/5 in WNC 9/8; NYT, WP, WT 9/5; AFP, IDF Radio, YA 9/5 in WNC 9/9; WP, WT 9/6; NYT 9/7, 9/9; WJW 9/11; LAW, MEI, PR 9/12; JP, WP 9/13; CSM 9/24)

State Dept. says that Secy. of State Madeleine Albright will go ahead with her trip to the region next wk.; that while there has been increased security coordination, the U.S. has "not been satisfied with the degree of unilateral efforts to crack down on terrorist infrastruture." (MM 9/4; NYT, WP, WT 9/5; WT 9/7)

As part of the plan to "unify Jerusalem," Israel sets up 2 new police stations in East Jerusalem. Each station will have 130 officers. (YA 9/4 in WNC 9/9)

12 Sephardic Jews fr. Israel arrive in Jericho, ask the PA for political asylum, accuse Israeli authorities of trying to kill them. PA puts them up in a local hotel. (WT 9/10)

Senior coalition MKs charge that Dr. Nimrod Novick, a fmr. adviser of Peres, delivered a document to the U.S. administration, outlining a U.S. initiative for resumption of Israeli-PA talks. (MM 7/24; YA 7/24 in WNC 7/25; ITV 7/24 in WNC 7/28)

At Erez checkpoint, Arafat, Labor Chmn. Barak meet; agree to set up joint comm. to exchange updates about the peace process. (IDF Radio 7/24 in WNC 7/25)

Ma'ariv publishes excerpts of what it claims are secret government documents about the permanent arrangement with the PA. According to the excerpts, which have similarities to the Abbas-Beilin proposal (see Doc. C3 in JPS 101), the Likud-led government would "agree to the existence of an independent Palestinian entity," with long-term restrictions on sovereignty. The documents reportedly also list in descending order of preference various options for each final status issue. Netanyahu admits the position paper was written but dismisses it as "not important," a draft, not policy. (MM 7/24; MA 7/24 in WNC 7/25, 7/28; MM 7/25)

Israeli Mayor of Jerusalem Olmert gives immediate permission for a right-wing American Jewish developer, Irving Moskowitz, to break ground for a new 70-unit Jewish settlement in the Palestinian neighborhood of Ras al-Amud. Netanyahu says the move is legal, but the timing is wrong; he will block the plan. PA calls move deeply provocative. (MM, NYT 7/25; IDF Radio 7/25 in WNC 7/28; NYT, WP, WT 7/26; ITV, YA 7/27, IDF Radio 7/28 in WNC 7/29; WJW 7/31; JP 8/2, 8/9)

Backed by Israel's Histadrut labor federation, 60,000 workers at state-owned companies observe 1-day strike in solidarity with Bezeq telephone company employees, who are protesting government privatization programs. (NYT 7/25, 7/26)

Pres. Mubarak says that Iran is seeking military cooperation with Egypt to counter the growing military ties btwn. Israel, Turkey; Egypt will not take an immediate decision on the request. (al-Ahram 7/24 in WNC 7/29)

Syria opens 4th border crossing with Iraq. (see 7/22)

IAF's consultative council votes (80-16) to boycott Jordan's 11/97 elections. (MM 7/24, 7/25; RMC 7/24 in WNC 7/25; al-Dustur 7/25 in WNC 7/28; al-Dustur 7/29 in WNC 7/30) (see 7/23)

In s. Lebanon, 5 SLA mbrs. are wounded by 2 car bombs. In a separate incident, 1 IDF soldier is injured when an IDF artillery gun misfires while shelling Hizballah positions. (RL 7/24 in WNC 7/25; WT 8/6)

Netanyahu sends Cabinet Secy. Nave to Washington to present U.S. special envoy Ross with "bridging proposals" for resuming PA-Israeli talks. (MA, YA 7/21 in WNC 7/22; NYT, WT 7/22; ITV 7/22 in WNC 7/23; WT 7/23; WJW 7/24; YA 7/25 in WNC 7/28)

Israel's Labor faction forms an unofficial "shadow cabinet," assigning party mbrs. to monitor, react to the activities of each ministry (e.g., MK Beilin on FMin., MK Ori Or on DMin., MK Binyamin Ben-Eliezer on Housing Min.). After 6 mos. the assignments will rotate, though party chmn. Barak will remain the "shadow PM," tracking Netanyahu. (YA 7/21 in WNC 7/29)

Labor Chmn. Barak flies to Amman at King Hussein's invitation to discuss ways of restarting Israeli-PA talks. (IDF Radio 7/21 in WNC 7/22; NYT 7/22)

Netanyahu loses (49-44) a no-confidence vote in the Knesset but is not deposed under the direct-election law. (MM 7/22) (see 7/20)

The `Abd al-Rahim comm. to investigate the PA GCO report on financial corruption submits its final report to Arafat. (NYT 7/22)

Israeli Interior M Eli Suissa, Jerusalem Mayor Olmert say marketing of Har Homa to developers will begin in 3 mos. (MA 7/22 in WNC 7/23)

PA police announce that based on inquiries into Shukah's death 7/14, they have uncovered a Hamas bomb-making factory in Bayt Sahur, containing 66 lbs. of explosives, IDF uniforms, Jewish prayer shawls and caps. (MM 7/21)

PA police arrive at the home of al-Azhar's Dr. Subuh, confiscate the student answers to the exam he gave 6/21. The PSF is still detaining Subuh. (LAW 7/24; Palestine Center for Human Rights press release 7/26; NYT 8/16) (see 7/2)

Israel, Poland sign free trade agmt. under which customs tariffs on industrial goods will be lifted by 1998, on all other goods by 2001. (PAP [Warsaw] 7/21 in WNC 7/22; MA 7/23 in WNC 7/24)

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)

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)

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)

In Jerusalem, Israel, PA hold "expanded" round of talks on Hebron. The 2 sides discuss the possibility of another Arafat-Netanyahu mtg. A dispute arises over the Rafah airport: Israel demands that the PA tear down the terminal, which already has been completed, and build it elsewhere. (RJ 11/21 in WNC 11/22; ITV 11/21, MA 11/22 in WNC 11/25; WJW 11/28)

In a press interview, Egyptian Pres. Mubarak says that Egypt "will not stand idly by" if Israel attacks Syria. Israel denounces the statement as provocative; Syria welcomes it. (al-Nahar 11/21 in WNC 11/26)

2 Palestinian boys are killed, 3 are wounded when they uncover an 1967-era Israeli land mine nr. Jenin. PA-Israeli joint patrol searches the area, discovers 2 more mines. (PR 11/29)

PA-Israeli talks on Hebron continue. Arafat reportedly demands that Netanyahu commit to completing IDF redeployment in the West Bank, opening Rafah airport. (MM 10/25; ITV 10/25 in WNC 10/29; WT 10/26; YA 10/27 in WNC 10/29)

Israel releases list of the 10 "most serious violations" of Oslo by the PA: PA police firing on IDF, ignoring bans on illegal weapons and disbanding independent militias, refusal to extradite individuals suspected of terrorism, incitement to violence against Israel, failure to change the PLO covenant, opening offices in Jerusalem, hiring "Palestinian terrorists" to serve in the PA police, exceeding the agreed upon number of PA police, injuring human rights and the rule of law, conducting diplomatic relations. (IGPO 10/25 in WNC 10/30; HA 10/28 in IL 10/28; PR 11/1; WJW 12/5)

French Pres. Chirac makes brief stops in Lebanon to meet with in Cairo before returning to Paris. (MM 10/25; RE, RL 10/25 in WNC 10/29; WT 10/27; MM 10/30)

Germany begins 2d mediation effort to settle the issue of Israeli pilot Ron Arad (downed over Lebanon in 1986 and believed to be held by Hizballah), Lebanese political prisoners in Israeli jails (incl. Dirani, Obeid). Germany's 1st mediation effort resulted in a prisoner swap 7/21. (RL 10/25, 10/26 in WNC 10/29; al-Safir 10/29 in WNC 11/4; MM 11/11) (see 9/25)

Hizballah detonates 4 roadside bombs in s. Lebanon, killing 2 IDF soldiers, wounding 5. (MM 10/25; QY 10/25 in IL 10/25; JP 11/2)

PA-Israeli security, civil talks continue in Jerusalem, reportedly stick on issue of reopening al-Shuhada Street, 1 of the main streets in Hebron, to Palestinian traffic. Israel says this would be a security risk. (ITV 10/24, MA, YA 10/25 in WNC 10/29)

In Amman, French Pres. Chirac signs protocol granting Jordan $15 m. for water, medical, telecommunications, meteorological projects; leaves for Beirut. (MEI, MM, NYT 10/25; WT 10/27; JP 11/2)

Despite Netanyahu's refusal to declare a national day of mourning, a memorial service for fmr. PM Rabin is held at Mt. Herzl. PM Netanyahu attends but is asked by the Rabin family not to make a statement. (MM, WJW 10/24; CSM, NYT, WT 10/25; JP 11/2; MEI 11/8)

In n. Iraq, KDP, PUK halt fighting, adhere to U.S.-brokered cease-fire. (WT 10/25) (see 10/23)

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)

PM Netanyahu arrives in London on 1st stop of 3-day EU tour to garner support for his hard-line attitude toward the peace process; meets with PM John Major. (MM 9/24; LPR 9/24 in WNC 9/27; MM, WP, WT 9/25)

Under heavy police guard, Israel undertakes a surprise predawn excavation to complete a long disputed archeological tunnel that runs along the al-Aqsa mosque compound. The 12-yr.-old project was completed only on the personal orders of PM Netanyahu, who intended it as a message to Palestinians that Israel is the sole sovereign in Jerusalem. PA denounces tunnel work, calls for general strike 9/25. During the day, Palestinians at the mosque clash with police, hurl stones at Jews at the Western Wall. Jordan's King Hussein is furious that Gold did not warn him of the tunnel opening in their mtg. 9/22. (MM 9/24; JTV, RJ 9/24 in WNC 9/27; CSM, MM, NYT, WP, WT 9/25; WJW 10/3; MEI, PR 10/4; MM 10/9; WT 10/11)

In Hebron, IDF orders 6-mo. closure of 2 charity organizations allegedly linked to Hamas. Palestinians clash with IDF over reopening the central market (see 9/16). (HA 9/24 in IL 9/24; RMC 9/24 in WNC 9/27)

Following Israel's Yom Kippur holiday, ILMG reconvenes in Naqura to discuss complaints filed by Lebanon, Israel. (ITV, RL 9/24 in WNC 9/27; NYT, WT 9/25; JP 10/5) (see 9/22)

IDF, Amal clash in s. Lebanon, leaving 2 Amal mbrs. dead. (RL 9/24 in WNC 9/27; CSM, MM, NYT, WT 9/25; RL 9/25 in WNC 9/27; JP 10/5)

Israel's ministerial forum on Hebron reconvenes to discuss redeployment issue. (ITV 8/18; MM 8/19; IDF Radio, YA 8/19 in WNC 8/21) (see 8/15)

Hebron settler leaders hold mtg. to discuss how they will react if the government goes through with plans to redeploy. Kach mbrs. propose attacking Palestinians in the city after a pullback. (ITV 8/18 in WNC 10/3; YA 10/17 in WNC 10/22)

Israeli Interior M Eliyahu Suissa says his min. is working out a plan to be submitted to the government for approval that calls for expanding Jerusalem's area by annexing many settlements abutting it, incl. some that lie across the Green Line such as Ma'ale Adumim, Giv'at Ze'ev. (MM 8/19; MA, QY 8/19 in WNC 8/21)

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu, FM David Levy meet to resolve differences; agree to set up negotiations oversight comm., steering comm. for talks with Syria that will both incl. the PM, FM, DM. Netanyahu also agrees to redesignate all the head of the "Jordan desk" in the PM's office as "staff"; do the same for all geographic desk officers in the PM's office, so there is no overlap with the FMin.; improve coordination btwn. the PM's office, FMin. (MM, NYT 8/19; WJW 8/22; JP 8/31) (see 8/14)

PA Preventive Security Forces (PSF) bulldozes 5 Palestinian houses in Khan Yunis, saying the houses were build on government property that will be used for housing projects in the future. Owners of the homes said they received building permits fr. the PA Housing Min. (PR 8/23)

Bread riots continue in Amman, nearby Jordanian villages. In the past 3 days, 300 have been arrested, 40 injured in the countrywide protests. Many of those arrested are mbrs. of leftist political groups, such as the pro-Iraqi Arab Socialist Ba`th party (ASB), Jordan People's Democratic party (JPD), Jordanian Communist party. (RMC 8/18, 8/19 in WNC 8/21; JT, JTV 8/18, al-Ra'i 8/20 in WNC 8/22; MM, NYT, WP, WT 8/19; MEI 9/6) (see 8/17)

Lebanese parliamentary elections begin with Mount Lebanon district. Hizballah's 1 candidate is defeated, as is influential Greek Orthodox opposition figure Albert Mukheiber. 32 of the 35 seats go to progovernment candidates. There will be voting on 5 consecutive Sundays in separate regions. The last elections, boycotted by Christians, were held in 1992. (VOL 8/18 in WNC 8/21; WT 8/19; RL 8/19 in WNC 8/21; CSM 8/19, 8/20; MM 8/21, 8/28; MEI 9/6; CSM 9/10)

Israel's National Oil Exploration Company announces it has discovered oil in s. Israel, nr. Beersheba. The site, which could produce 600 bpd, is a sign oil could exist in significant quantities in the area. (WJW 8/22; JP 8/24)

PM Netanyahu speaks before joint session of Congress. Rep. Benjamin Gilman (R-NY), noted for holding up Middle East Peace Facilitation Act aid to the PLO, calls speech "an eloquent and visionary tour de force." Netanyahu then hold talks with congressional leaders, representatives fr. Arab embassies, CIA Dir. John Deutch. (ITV, QY, SARR 7/10, QY, YA 7/11 in FBIS 7/11; MM, NYT, WJW, WP, WT 7/11; CSM 7/12; QY 7/14 in FBIS 7/15; MM 7/16; WJW 7/18; MEI 7/19; JP 7/20)

In Hebron, Palestinians clash with Israeli police after PM Netanyahu fails to set a date for redeployment in the city; IDF seals area, imposes curfew. Palestinians had hoped Clinton would have pressured Netanyahu to set a timetable for redeployment, easing of closure. (QY 7/20 in FBIS 7/10; QY, RE, SARR 7/10, al-Hayat, QY, RE, SARR, VOP 7/11 in FBIS 7/11; CSM, MM, WP, WT 7/11; RMC 7/10, al-Hayat, QY 7/11, VOP 7/12 in FBIS 7/12; MM 7/15)

Bowing to pressure fr. ultraorthodox Jews, Israeli Transportation Min. agrees to close Bar Ilan Street, 1 of Jerusalem's main roads, for most of the Jewish Sabbath for a 4-mo. trial period. Israeli High Court overrides his order with a temporary injunction to keep the road open. Israeli police expect demonstrations, violent classes btwn. orthodox, secular Jews. (WT 7/11)

After Organization of African Unity gives near unanimous backing to UN Secy. Gen. Butros-Ghali in his bid for a 2d term. U.S. again says it will veto him if he runs. (WT 7/11) (see 6/23)

Hizballah releases 2 SLA prisoners, proposes to exchange 17 other SLA mbrs. in its custody for 200 Lebanese nationals held in al-Khiyam prison in s. Lebanon. (MENA, VOL 7/10 in FBIS 7/11; MM 7/17)

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)

Palestinian elections are held; 676 candidates run for the Palestinian Council, 2 for president. (WP, WT 1/20; ITV 1/20, QY 1/21 in FBIS 1/22; NYT, WT 1/21; CSM, MM, WT 1/22; WJW 1/25; JP 1/27; WJW 2/1; MEI 2/2; JP 2/3)

In East Jerusalem, 51 Arabs and Jews are arrested for incitement, disturbing the voting process. 3 are slightly injured. Kach mbrs. attack Arafat adviser Faisal Husseini, spray teargas at Palestinians, damage Palestinian shops. Heavy IDF deployments around polling stations keeps voter turnout low. (ITV, QY, VOP 1/20 in FBIS 1/22)

All Palestinian refugee camps in s. Lebanon--except al-Rashidiyya, which is strongly pro-Arafat--call general strikes to protest elections in the self-rule areas. (RL 1/20 in FBIS 1/22; MM 1/22)

PM Peres invites all PNC mbrs., incl. rejectionists and Islamists, to return to the self-rule areas (but not Jerusalem) for discussions on amending the PLO charter. (ITV, QY 1/20, JT, QY 1/22 in FBIS 1/22; MM 1/22)

IDF closes central Hebron after settler is stabbed, forcing voters find international observers who will escort them to the polls. Voter turnout estimated at 25 percent as a result. (QY 1/20 in FBIS 1/22; NYT, WT 1/21; WT 1/22)

McDonnel Douglas agrees to purchase $750 m. of equipment fr. Israeli defense companies in a buy-back deal under which the IAF will purchase 25 of McDonnel Douglas's F-15I planes for $2 b. (JP 1/20)

PA Justice M Frayh Abu-Midyan is denied entry to Israel for talks on judicial affairs, misses scheduled mtg. with Israeli Justice M Liba'i. (MM 9/4, 9/6; QY 9/4 in FBIS 9/6; Hatzofe 9/8 in FBIS 9/8)

PM Rabin, FM Peres make surprise visit to Hebron to view conditions, examine security options for themselves. (MM 9/4; QY 9/4 in FBIS 9/5; CSM 9/5; WJW 9/7)

Israel's Jerusalem 3000 celebration, marking the anniversary of King David's capture of the city, begins. Of 70 ambs invited, 53--incl. U.S. Amb. Indyk and 15 EU ambs.--stay away fr. the opening ceremony. (WT 9/4; QY 9/4, 9/5 in FBIS 9/5; MM, NYT 9/5; ITV, QY 9/5, JP 9/6 in FBIS 9/6; CSM, WJW, WT 9/7; WT 9/10; JP 9/16) (see 8/15)

Israeli Dep. FM Eli Dayan travels to Cairo to discuss POW issue with Egyptian FM Musa, criticizes the Egyptian media for wrongly accusing Israeli Amb. to Egypt David Sultan of personally participating in the killing of POWs. (MENA, QY 9/4 in FBIS 9/5; MENA, QY 9/5 in FBIS 9/6; MM 9/7) (see 8/28)

U.S. special envoy Dennis Ross (on personal visit to the region) discusses PA-Israeli negotiations with Arafat in Gaza, then with FM Peres in Jerusalem. (QY, VOP 8/29 in FBIS 8/30; CSM 8/30; PWR 9/4)

In Damascus, Pres. Asad, FM Shara` receive U.S. Senators Arlen Spector, Hank Brown; discusses Syrian-U.S. relations, peace process. (SARR 8/29 in FBIS 8/30; MM 8/30; MM 9/5)

U.S. State Dept. says it warned Syria (8/11) to do "everything in its power" to curb threats against the U.S. and its citizens by Syrian-based Palestinian/Islamic rejectionist groups; U.S. reserves the right to respond to attacks "in any way it deems necessary." (MM, WP 8/30; WJW 9/7)

PA says that, in past 2 days, based on Israeli information, it has arrested over 30 Hamas mbrs, foiling 2 planned attacks on Israeli, PA targets. (ITV, QPAR, QY 8/29 in FBIS 8/30; NYT 8/30; CSM 8/31)

Over dinner, U.S. Amb. to Israel Indyk, U.S. Consul Gen. Abington, UN coordinator Larsen persuade Arafat to call FM Peres, invite him to open intensive one-on-one talks on transfer of authority. Peres accepts. (JP 8/6 in FBIS 8/7; MM 8/10; WP 8/12)

PM Rabin rejects Secy. of State Christopher's request to resume talks with Syria on the ambassadorial level, says talks must include military advisers. (ITV 8/2, AFP 8/3 in FBIS 8/2)

Israeli cabinet meets on but does not approve transfer of 8 spheres of authority to the PA. (MM 8/2; QY 8/2 in FBIS 8/2; QY 8/2 in FBIS 8/3) (see 5/22)

In Amman, PM Bin Shakir, PA Tourism M Ilyas Frayj discuss bilateral relations in light of the peace process. (RJ 8/2 in FBIS 8/3; RJ 8/3 in FBIS 8/7)

Israeli Supreme Court overturns ban on Jewish visitors to Temple Mount/al-Aqsa mosque courtyard during Jewish holidays. Jews will be allowed to tour the site beginning 8/5 but will still be prohibited fr. praying there. Site has been closed to Jews since 1990 riots left 17 Palestinians dead, 150 wounded. (QY 8/3 in FBIS 8/4; WP 8/7; MENA 8/4, VOP 8/5, 8/7 in FBIS 8/7)

PLO's Qaddumi arrives in Tripoli for talks on bilateral relations with Libyan officials. (Great Jamahiriyya Radio 8/2 in FBIS 8/2)

IAF strikes PFLP-GC bases in Syrian-controlled Biqa` Valley. Though the site is within range of Syrian antiaircraft batteries and despite the fact Syrian DM Mustafa Tlas is visiting Syrian army units in the area, Syria does not open fire. (CSM 8/3; YA 8/2 in IL 8/3; QPAR 8/2 in FBIS 8/4)

At the Russian Compound police headquarters in Jerusalem, 1,000 settlers demonstrate against expansion of Palestinian self-rule. Similar demonstration by over 1,000 Jews is held outside the Israeli consulate in New York. (QY 8/2 in FBIS 8/3; WJW 8/10)

In Washington, U.S. Secy. of State Christopher meets with Syrian Amb. Mu`allim, says Israel seeks concrete proposals fr. Syria before resuming talks. (QY 7/28 in FBIS 8/1)

Despite heated debates, lower house of Jordanian parliament passes legislation (51-21) overturning 3 laws that treat Israel as an enemy state; refers new legislation to finance, judiciary comms for recommendation to upper house. (MM 6/29; RJ, SARR 7/26, JT 7/27 in FBIS 7/27; MM 7/27; MEI 8/4) (see 7/20)

In 59-59 tie vote, PM Rabin's governing coalition defeats Kahalani bill that would have required special 70-MK majority for withdrawal fr. Golan. Conservative MKs complain that U.S. amb. Indyk lobbied MKs to vote against the measure; U.S. embassy, Shas's Deri deny it. (MM 7/26; ITV 7/25, IDF Radio, QY, YA 7/26 in FBIS 7/26; MM, NYT, WP, WT 7/27; CSM 8/2; WJW 8/3; MEI 8/4; JP 8/5) (see 9/7/94, 5/1) (see 7/25)

In Jerusalem, 4 settlers open fire on Faisal Husseini's house, stone Palestinians' cars, shoot at nearby homes. Damage, but no casualties, reported. Israel police capture 3 suspects. (VOP 7/26 in FBIS 7/26; ITV, RMC 7/26 in FBIS 7/27)