The Palestine Chronology

U.S. stages 2d strike on Iraq, having hit more than 50 targets with over 200 Tomahawk missiles 12/16. Democratic congressmen accuse Republicans, many of whom questioned the timing of the attacks, of being unpatriotic. Russia recalls its ambs. fr. Washington (for the 1st time since World War II), London; the Duma accuses the U.S. of "international terrorism." Lebanon denounces the operation. Jordan expresses regret. Syria opposes U.S. "double standards" in its Iraq, Israel policy. (MM 12/17; AFP, IRNA, MENA, Petra-JNA, RJ 12/17 in WNC 12/21; CSM, MM, NYT, WP, WT 12/18; al-Thawra, Tishrin 12/18 in WNC 12/28; NYT, WP, WT 12/19; MENA 12/19, SATN 12/20, al-Ahram 12/21 in WNC 12/22; MEI 12/25)

Across the West Bank and in Gaza City, Palestinians protest the U.S.-led attack on Iraq. The largest demonstration, attended by 3,000 Palestinians, is held in Nablus. In el-Bireh, the IDF shoots, kills 1 Palestinian, injures 16 others. (WP, WT 12/18; MEI 12/25)

In Egypt, the government expresses its "regret" over the U.S.-led strike on Iraq; the Arab League, al-Azhar's chief cleric denounce use of military force; Cairo University students go on hunger strike to protest; Egyptian police lock American University in Cairo students on campus to keep them fr. demonstrating. (MENA, RE 12/17 in WNC 12/21)

Immediately upon his return to the U.S., Pres. Clinton convenes his senior advisers to "discuss the UNSCOM report on Iraq"; they unanimously recommend a strike. Clinton orders forces in the Gulf to attack immediately; 1st sorties reach Iraq around 5 p.m., leaving 2 Iraqis (Iraq says 25) dead, 30 injured. A token force of 18 British planes takes part. House postpones indefinitely its vote on impeachment, set for tomorrow. Operation Desert Fox is expected to conclude in 3-4 days, before the beginning of Ramadan. Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) Chmn. Gen. Henry Shelton says decision was made in 11/98 to attack immediately if the UNSCOM report was negative. However, sources say that the White House informed the JCS 12/13 that a strike would be ordered this wk. Various congressmen say that they were briefed on the plan 3 wks. ago. Arab states are silent. France, Russia condemn the operation. Canada, Japan support it. (RJ 12/16 in WNC 12/17; ITV 12/16, AFP, ATL, JT 12/17 in WNC 12/21; CSM, NYT, WP, WT 12/17; MM, WP 12/18; MEI 12/25; GIU 1/5, 1/6)

PM Netanyahu says that he is prepared to call early elections unless the Knesset ratifies his hard-line policies on Wye implementation as outlined in his 12-point list of demands given to Clinton 12/15. (NYT, WP, WT 12/17; ITV 12/20 in WNC 12/22)

Israeli Finance M Neeman resigns in frustration over PM Netanyahu's political manipulation of the budget process. Netanyahu takes over the finance portfolio himself, giving himself control over budget allocations, which he could use to his political advantage if early elections are called. DM Mordechai is also reportedly threatening to leave over Wye implementation delays. (MM 12/16; MA, YA 12/16 in WNC 12/17; MM, NYT 12/17; NYT 12/19; WP 12/22; MEI 12/25; JP 12/28; Globes [Internet] 1/13 in WNC 1/14)

Peace Now reports that new housing starts in settlements more than doubled in 1998 compared to 1997. In the 1st half of 1998, construction began on 1,420 new units, up 136% fr. the same period last yr. In the 2d half of 1998, 640 units were started, up 121%. (Associated Press [Internet] 12/16)

Pres. Clinton meets with Netanyahu, Arafat at Erez border crossing, where Netanyahu gives him a list of 12 demands that the PA must meet before Israel will continue Wye implementation. Clinton warns that it would be "unfortunate" if Israel fell too far behind in the implementation schedule. He then attends tree lighting ceremony in Bethlehem with Arafat, tours Masada with Netanyahu. (MM 12/15; ITV, QY, RE 12/15 in WNC 12/16; CSM, MM, NYT, WP, WT 12/16; JT 12/16 in WNC 12/17; MA 12/16 in WNC 12/21; al-Hayat al-Jadida 12/16, al-Quds 12/17, MA 12/18 in WNC 12/22; al-Ba`th 12/16 in WNC 12/28; MM, PR 12/18)

PISMC meets to discuss all pending peace process issues. The only agmt. reached is to create an "informal channel" to discuss the prisoner release issue. (ITV 12/15 in WNC 12/16; CSM, NYT, WP, WT 12/16)

Secy. Albright leaves the U.S. delegation in Israel to make side trip to Amman to meet with Crown Prince Hassan. (JTV 12/15 in WNC 12/17; NYT 12/16; MM 12/18)

UNSCOM head Richard Butler reports to the UN that by failure to comply with 5 of 300 recent inspections requests, Iraq has failed to honor the promises of cooperation that prompted Pres. Clinton to call off a major military strike 11/14. U.S. officials say that the Clinton administration played a direct role in shaping Butler's text during multiple conversations with him 12/14 at secure sites in the U.S. mission to the UN, convinced him to order inspectors out of Iraq today without informing UN. (NYT, WP, WT 12/16; AFP, RJ 12/16 in WNC 12/17; NYT 12/17; Tishrin 12/19 in WNC 12/28; al-Akhbar, MENA 12/21 in WNC 12/22; MEI 12/25) (see 12/13)

Palestinian prisoners end hunger strike. (ITV 12/15 in WNC 12/16; MEI 12/25) (see 12/12)

As the House approves 4 articles of impeachment against him in Washington, Pres. Clinton arrives in Tel Aviv on 1st stop of 4-day visit. At the airport, PM Netanyahu offers Clinton a "lukewarm" greeting, warns that the Wye agmt. is unraveling, says he will not halt his criticism of the PA, which he accuses of violating every clause of the Wye accord. (ITV, MENA 12/12, JT 12/13 in WNC 12/15; NYT, WP, WT 12/13; GIU, NYT 12/14; PR 12/18)

In Damascus, 8 PLO opposition groups, Hamas, Islamic Jihad open 2-day conference to reaffirm opposition to the Oslo process, adherence to PLO charter. Jordan prevents 32 Palestinians fr. crossing border to attend. (JT, SA 12/12, JTV 12/13, JT 12/14 in WNC 12/15; MM 12/14; al-Majd 12/14 in WNC 12/17; MEI 12/25; al-Watan al-Arabi 1/1 in WNC 1/5)

Jordanian PM Fayiz al-Tarawnah arrives in Gaza for coordination mtg. with Arafat. Both men call on Palestinian prisoners to end their hunger strike (see 12/11). (RJ 12/12 in WNC 12/15; al-Majd 12/14 in WNC 12/16)

In Gaza, 100s of Palestinians demonstrate against Israel's refusal to release political prisoners. During similar demonstration in Bethlehem, PA police, IDF clash with Palestinians, leaving 7 injured. (NYT, WT 12/13)

Jordanian security arrests 8 Palestinians in Baq`a refugee camp for planning rallies for 12/14 to protest Arafat's annulment of the PLO charter. (JT 12/14 in WNC 12/15; al-Dustur 12/15 in WNC 12/16, 12/17)

In Amman, Israeli FM Sharon, Trade M Natan Sharansky meet with Crown Prince Hassan; sign agmt. forming bilateral mechanism for implementing several Jordan Valley projects. (ITV, JT, RJ 11/23 in WNC 11/24; JTV, Petra-JNA 11/23, JT 11/24 in WNC 11/30; MM 11/24)

Israel, the PA hold talks on selecting the remaining 500 Palestinian prisoners to be released under the Wye agmt., but reach impasse. (ITV 11/23 in WNC 11/24)

In Gaza, 1,500 Palestinians demonstrate against the PA for failing to secure Israel's release of political prisoners, attempt to break into PA negotiator Abbas's home but are pushed back by PA police. (JT [Internet] 11/24; MM 11/25; MEI 12/11)

Jewish settlers seize West Bank hilltop nr. Elon Moreh. IDF declares 2d hill nr. Itamar occupied by settlers 11/22 a closed military zone, orders settlers to leave. (CSM, JP [Internet] 11/24)

U.S. Amb. to Qatar Paul Theros says that the U.S. is building its largest military "warehouse" in Qatar, prepositioning equipment but not troops. (WT 11/24)

In s. Lebanon, 3 civilians are injured, houses are damaged by IDF shelling. 1 IDF soldier is killed, 2 South Lebanon Army (SLA) soldiers are wounded in Hizballah attack. (RL 11/23 in WNC 11/24; MA 11/24 in WNC 11/30)

PM Netanyahu again postpones cabinet discussion of Wye agmt., demands that the U.S. obtain a written timetable fr. the PA for arrest of 30 fugitives, claims agmt. cannot pass ratification with oral assurances alone. State Dept. says that the PA has met its obligation, U.S. considers the agmt. to have entered into force 11/2. (MM 11/3; IDF Radio, ITV 11/3, MENA 11/4 in WNC 11/6; NYT, WP, WT 11/4; NYT 11/5) (see 11/2)

Arafat says that arrest of Hamas activists will continue, crackdown has not gone far enough. Since 10/29, 250-450 alleged Hamas activists have been arrested. (MM, WP 11/4) (see 11/1)

Israel arrests right-wing settler leader Rabbi Moshe Levinger on charges of incitement. (WT 11/4; JP 11/16)

Overnight, Jewish settlers move at least 10 trailers onto a new settlement site on the West Bank hill. Another 3 trailers appear on a hill nr. the existing Ma'ale Mikhmas settlement. 3 other new settlements have been founded since the 10/23 Wye signing. (WT 11/4; MM 11/9, 11/13)

In London, U.S. Secy. of Defense William Cohen begins tour of EU, Arab allies to gauge support for strike on Iraq, says forces would be ready for attack within days. Cohen's tour is unusually secretive; no journalists are accompanying him as usual, his schedule has not been released. (NYT, WP, WT 11/4; al-Dustur, Petra-JNA, al-Ra`i, RE, RJ 11/4 in WNC 11/6; JP 11/9) (see 10/31)

Lebanon calls on the EU, UN to halt Israeli theft of fertile topsoil fr. s. Lebanon; says that 20+n30 Israeli civilians, the IDF have taken 100s of tons of soil since 9/98. (RL 11/3, 11/5 in WNC 11/6; NYT 11/4, 11/6)

U.S., Israel sign memorandum on military cooperation. (WP, WT 11/1; YA 11/1 in WNC 11/6; CSM, MM, NYT 11/2; al-Nahar 11/3 in WNC 11/12; JP 11/9)

Israel orders confiscation of 4,367 dunums of land fr. 4 Palestinian villages nr. Jinin for expansion of Hananit, Rihan, Shakid settlements. (al-Ayyam 10/31 in INFOPAL 11/1; PR 11/6)

Pres. Clinton signs nonbinding Iraq Liberation Act of 1998, which envisions takeover of the Iraqi government by opposition forces. U.S. must designate 1 or more groups as eligible for $97 m. in military, political aid within 90 days. (Washington File 11/2)

In a move unanimously condemned by the UNSC, Iraq halts all UN weapons inspections. U.S. National Security Council holds emergency mtg. to discuss possible military retaliation. (GIU, WP, WT 11/1; MM, NYT, WP, WT 11/2; GIU, NYT, WP 11/3; MENA 11/2, RE, RJ 11/4 in WNC 11/6; MM 11/6)

200,000 Iranian troops hold military maneuvers on the border with Afghanistan. (WP 11/1) (see 10/14)

5 mos. after it was submitted, Arafat accepts the Executive Authority's (EA) resignation. No date for cabinet reshuffle is set. (NYT, WP, WT 12/30; CSM 1/2; JP 1/10) (see 12/23)

Israeli Infrastructures M Sharon again tours West Bank, this time presenting his FRD plan to local settlers' group. (ITV 12/29 in WNC 1/1) (see 12/28)

Jordan's State Security Court sentences 4 Jordanians linked with the Islamist group Bay'at al-Imam, to terms ranging 10+n15 yrs. of hard labor for plotting attacks on Israel. A 5th suspect is still being tried in a separate court. (JT 12/30 in WNC 1/1) (see 8/8)

Jordan, Iraq sign oil cooperation accord. (RJ 12/29, al-Ra'i 12/30 in WNC 1/1; MM 1/5)

Bomb explodes in Ba'albeck, Lebanon, killing 1 woman, wounding her husband, child. (VOL 12/30 in WNC 1/1)

In Ramallah, Jordanian-PA joint ministerial comm. ends 2 days of talks on trade exchange and border-related issues. (JT, RJ 12/25 in WNC 12/29; al-Dustur 12/26, RJ 12/27, al-Ra`i 12/29 in WNC 1/1; TJT 1/2 in WNC 1/7)

In Tel Aviv, a group of Israelis attack a diplomatic car belonging to the Jordanian embassy. (al-Ra'i 12/29 in WNC 1/1; YA 12/31 in WNC 1/2)

2 settlers are arrested for shooting at a Palestinian in the West Bank village of Arif. (ITV 12/25 in WNC 12/29)

Palestinian Council (PC) suspends its session, gives Arafat 1 wk. to carry out reforms, cabinet reshuffle called in its a PC 5-mo.-old corruption report. (NYT, WP 12/30; CSM 1/2; JP 1/10)

Netanyahu, several Ms tour the West Bank to study security problems related to FRD. (MM 12/23)

Jordan, Israel hold talks on Jordanian-Israeli-PA economic relations. (RJ 12/23, JT 12/26 in WNC 12/29; WT 12/24; RJ 12/27 in WNC 1/1)

Chinese FM Qichen spends day in PA self-rule areas; meets with Arafat, Planning M Shaath; reaffirms China's support for creation of Palestinian state. (Xinhua [Beijing] 12/24 in WNC 12/29).

Arafat, his wife Suha light Christmas tree in Bethlehem to open holiday celebrations. (WP 12/24)

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)

PA, Israel joint comm. on the Gaza port convenes. (al-Ayyam 12/9 in WNC 12/17)

Al-Najah University holds student council elections. Of 81 seats, Hamas wins 40, Fatah 35. (al-Najah Students Union Council press release 12/9)

Israeli DM Mordechai arrives in Ankara to discuss upcoming naval maneuvers with Turkey, the U.S.; improving intelligence coordination; cooperation in manufacturing missiles, tanks. (Bayrak Radio [Nicosia] 12/4 in WNC 12/9; MENA 12/9 in WNC 12/17; NYT 12/12; JT 12/17 in WNC 12/19)

Iraq executes 4 Jordanian students for smuggling auto parts. Iraq has recently rounded up 523 Jordanians suspected of "economic crimes." (MM 12/10, 12/11; RJ 12/16 in WNC 12/18; MM 1/6; MEI 1/16; MM 1/20)

Multilateral Refugee Working Group opens 2-day mtg. in Aqaba. (JT 12/4, 12/6 in WNC 12/9)

Netanyahu and ministerial team on FRD created by the cabinet 11/30 hold their 1st mtg., begin discussions on areas to be retained in final settlement. (MM, NYT 12/3; IDF Radio, ITV 12/3 in WNC 12/9; MM 12/4; YA 12/4 in WNC 12/9, 12/17; WT 12/5; PR 12/12)

Russian special envoy Viktor Posuvalyuk arrives in Jordan to discuss the peace process. Posuvalyuk is following up on tour (10/24-30) of FM Yevgeny Primakov (ITAR-TASS, RJ 12/3, JT, RJ 12/4 in WNC 12/9)

Most Israeli banks, hospitals, airports, government agencies, public transportation, telecommunications services, the stock exchange shut down as 700,000 Israeli workers observe general strike called by Histadrut labor federation to protest government labor policies, including controversial pension deal. (MM 12/3)

The group Jews for an Exclusively Jewish State and Rule, which is associated with Kach, sends death threats to 3 Arab MKs. (MA 12/5 in WNC 12/9)

Netanyahu sends top aides to brief Arafat, Clinton, Egyptian pres. Mubarak on 11/30 cabinet decision. Arafat sends PA Planning M Nabil Shaath to Cairo to brief Mubarak on the PA's view of the decision. (IDF Radio, MENA, QY, RE 12/1 in WNC 12/9; MM 12/2; NYT 12/3; MEI 12/5)

In Amman, Austrian chancellor Viktor Klima, Jordanian PM `Abd al-Salam Majali discuss peace process, bilateral relations. (JTV, RJ 12/1, JT 12/2 in WNC 12/9)

An adviser to Netanyahu says that Israel would "feel free" to annex the West Bank if Arafat unilaterally declared statehood there and in Gaza. (ITV 12/1 in WNC 12/9; MM 12/2; CSM, WP 12/3)

Israeli cabinet approves construction of 900 housing units in the West Bank settlement of Alfe Menashe. (CSM 12/2)

Israel leaks to the press a new FRD offer under which it would withdraw fr. 6-8% of the West Bank. (MM, WP, WT 11/25; ITV, JP, MA, QY 11/25 in WNC 11/27; CSM, NYT, WT 11/26; JP 12/6) (compare 11/23)

French FM Hubert Vedrine arrives in Israel, meets with PM Netanyahu, FM David Levy, DM Mordechai, Labor chmn. Ehud Barak. (YA 11/24 in WNC 11/26; ITV 11/24, Les Echos [Paris], Liberation [Paris] 11/25 in WNC 11/27)

In Brussels, EU, Jordan sign long-awaited association agmt., giving Jordanian products preferential status. (RJ 11/24 in WNC 11/26)

Arafat adviser Mahmud Abbas meets with MK Meir Shitreet, the Shas leader MK Arye Deri to discuss holding regular mtgs. btwn. PA, Sephardic Jewish reps. Deri briefs PM Netanyahu on the mtg. (YA 11/27 in WNC 12/9)

In an Atlanta jail, Israeli MK Yuli Edelstein meets with convicted spy for Israel Jonathan Pollard, hands him letter fr. PM Netanyahu, saying that he "is committed to bringing about your release." (MA 11/24 in WNC 11/26)

4 Amal mbrs. are killed in clash with IDF in s. Lebanon. (RL, VOL 11/24 in WNC 11/26; WP 11/25; RL 11/25 in WNC 11/27)

In Cairo, PA negotiators brief Egypt's Pres. Mubarak on 11/3-6 Washington talks with Israel. Citing the talks' failure, Egypt announces that despite U.S. pressure, it will boycott the Doha economic summit. (MENA, RE 11/11 in WNC 11/12; NYT, WP, WT 11/12; WJW 11/13)

High-level EU delegation leaves Egypt for Jordan after visit of several hrs. (JTV, MENA 11/11 in WNC 11/12; RJ 11/12 in WNC 11/14)

At the Likud convention, Netanyahu backs away fr. call to abolish party primary elections in the face of pressue fr. party mbrs. (including fmr. Science M Benjamin Begin, fmr. Finance M Dan Meridor, Tel Aviv Mayor Roni Milo, DM Mordechai, Infrastructures M Sharon, Jerusalem Mayor Olmert) strong enough to split party, force new elections. (IDF Radio 11/11 in WNC 11/12; ITV, MA 11/12 in WNC 11/14) (see 11/9)

Israel's 1st El Al flight lands at Jordan's Aqaba airport. (HA, JT 11/11; al-Dustur 11/11 in WNC 11/12; JT 11/12 in WNC 11/14) (see 8/31)

Palestinian boy is left brain-dead when IDF opens fire with rubber bullets on crowd protesting reopening of the newly fortified Rachel's Tomb, a Jewish shrine in an Israeli-controlled salient in Bethlehem. (NYT 11/12, 11/14)

Jordan holds parliamentary elections. Progovernment independents win 62 of 80 seats. 9 oppositon parties boycott, lowering voter turnout to just over 50%, but 8 Islamists win seats as independents (reducing Islamist parliamentarians by half). 10 seats are won by leftist, nationalist opposition and conservatives. 17 women run for seats (in comparison to 12 in 1989, 3 in 1993), but none win. New parliament is considered weak, centrist, with high tribal affiliation. (MM, WP 11/4; JTV, RJ 11/4, RJ 11/5 in WNC 11/6; WP 11/5; NYT 11/6; JT 11/6 in WNC 11/8)

Israeli court rules against Infrastructures M Sharon, who sued author Uzi Benziman for libel in 1991 for writing that as DM, Sharon had deceived PM Menachem Begin during the 1982 war in Lebanon. Court states evidence shows that Sharon persued a personal adgenda in 1982, failed to inform the PM of his true intentions. (MM 11/4-6)

In Washington, Israeli, PA delegations (led by Israeli FM Levy, Arafat adviser Abbas) open 4 days of of high-level talks under U.S. auspices. (MM 11/3; MA 11/3 in WNC 11/4; NYT, WT, WP 11/4)

Jordan becomes the 1st Middle Eastern state to ratify the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC). Although Israel has signed the CWC, the government has not ratified it. (RJ 11/3 in WNC 11/6; WT 11/5)

As a "temporary security measure," IDF troops occupy Palestinian home in Azzariyya, a Palestinian neighborhood of Jersualem. PA lodges formal complaint with Israeli Military Liaison Office. (PR 11/7)

Iraq, Jordan sign agricultural cooperation accord. (IRNA 11/2 in WNC 11/4; RJ 11/3 in WNC 11/6)

Iraq again forbids entry to 2 American UNSCOM mbrs. U.S. says it has not ruled out a military response. Kuwait, other Arab states say that U.S. military action would be unacceptable. (CSM 11/3) (see 10/30)

U.S special envoy Ross meets again with Netanyahu, Arafat; arranges for each of them to be briefed separately on the status of talks by a joint delegation of PA, Israeli negotiators (incl. Abbas, Molho). (MM 12/23; RMC 12/23 in WNC 12/24; IDF Radio, ITV 12/23 in WNC 12/26; CSM, WT 12/24)

In Amman, PM Kabariti, PA Agriculture M `Abd al-Jawwad Salih discuss expanding Jordanian exports to the self-rule areas, bilateral cooperation on agriculture. (RJ 12/23 in WNC 12/26)

Israeli Housing Min. says it will soon market land on the Golan for the expansion of Qatzrin settlement by 96 units. (MM 12/23)

Lebanese, Syrian officials say that 10s of Lebanese (perhaps as many as 200), many of whom are affiliated with the Christian opposition, have been detained for questioning regarding the 12/18 bus attack. Many already have been released. Coordinator for Israeli activities in Lebanon, Uri Lubrani, warns Syria that there will be retribution for the arrests. (MM 12/23; RL 12/26 in WNC 12/30; MM 1/3; al-Watan al-Arabi [Paris] 1/3 in WNC 1/14)

Jordanian government announces that a 10% cut in bread prices will be implemented in 1/97. (JT 12/24 in WNC 12/27) (see 8/16-18)

SLA expels a couple fr. their home in s. Lebanon to the n. after their son deserts the SLA. (RL 12/23 in WNC 12/26)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Jordanian Information M Mu`asher meets with PM Netanyahu. (JT, RJ 12/13 in WNC 12/16)

Israeli cabinet reinstates large subsidies (incl. tax brakes, business grants) for West Bank settlers. The U.S. says the move is "troubling," "clearly complicates the peace process." (MM 12/13; MA 12/13 in WNC 12/16; IGPO 12/13, ITV 12/16 in WNC 12/17; LAWE, NYT, WP, WT 12/14; IGPO, WP 12/15; CSM, MM, WT 12/16; MEI, PR 12/20; JP 12/21)

In Gaza, 15,000 Palestinians attend antisettlement rally called by Hamas and approved by the PA. Hamas spokesman Mahmud Zahhar announces that Hamas soon will open political offices in Gaza (with PA permission) as a transitional step for "greater participation in public life"; West Bank offices are planned. (NYT 12/14; CSM 12/16; ITV 12/17 in WNC 12/19; MEI, PR 12/20; al-Quds 12/20 in WNC 12/26; JP 12/21)

After France drops its threat to veto him, UNSC chooses Ghana's Annan, current undersecy. gen. for peacekeeping operations, for secy. gen. The full UN General Assembly (UNGA) is expected to officially elect him 12/17. (NYT, WP, WT 12/14; CSM 12/16; MEI 12/20) (see 12/6)

Katayusha rockets are fired fr. s. Lebanon into n. Israel, in the first crossborder attack since the wide-scale Israeli-Lebanese fighting in 4/96. No one is injured, but a cow is killed. Democratic Front for the Liberation of Palestine (DFLP), Hizballah, PFLP, Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine-General Command (PFLP-GC) deny responsibility. (RL 12/13, RL, RMC 12/14, RL 12/15 in WNC 12/17; NYT, WP 12/14; RMC 12/15 in WNC 12/16; RL 12/15 in WNC 12/17; RL 12/16 in WNC 12/18; JP 12/21)

In Tel Aviv, Israeli DM Mordechai briefs Jordanian Information M Marwan Mu`asher on negotiations with the PA. Mu`asher warns Israel on expanding settlements, raising fears of a military conflict with Syria. (ITV, JTV 12/11, IGPO, RJ 12/12 in WNC 12/13)

In Cairo, Netanyahu adviser Gold discuses peace process with Pres. Mubarak. (RE 12/11 in WNC 12/12)

Israeli Justice Min. defends Shin Bet's use of moderate physical pressure in questioning Palestinians suspected of having knowledge of imminent anti-Israeli attacks; claims that 90 incidents (incl. 15 kidnapings of Israeli soldiers and civilians, 10 suicide bombings, 7 car bombings) have been averted over the past 2 yrs. as a result of such pressure. (IDF Radio 12/11 in WNC 12/12; MM 12/20) (see 11/14)

Two settlers are killed, 5 wounded in a drive-by shooting nr. Ramallah, which the IDF immediately seals off along with several surrounding villages. Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP) claims responsibility as a response to Israel's plans to build 132 Jewish houses in East Jerusalem (see 12/8). PA condemns the attack, saying it will give Israel a pretext to further delay negotiations. (MM 12/11; IDF Radio, ITV 12/11, RMC 12/12 in WNC 12/13; MM, NYT, WP, WT 12/12; MA 12/12 in WNC 12/16; WT 12/13; CSM 12/16; QY, YA 12/18 in WNC 12/19; MEI, PR 12/20; JP 12/21, 12/28; MEI 1/10; WJW 1/23)

300 Palestinian students break into Islamic University of Hebron University, sealed by IDF since the 2+n3/96 suicide bombings in Israel; say they will stay until the university is reopened. (CSM, NYT 12/10)

EU special envoy Moratinos meets with King Hussein in Amman. (RJ 12/9 in WNC 12/11; MEI 1/24)

Syrian PM Mahmud Zubi begins 6-day visit to China. (WT 12/11) UN approves implementation of oil-for-food deal for Iraq. (NYT, WP 12/10; JT 12/10 in WNC 12/12; MM 12/11) (see 11/25)

ILMG meets to discuss the IDF's attack on a Lebanese village 12/7 that left 6 civilians wounded. (MM 12/9; RL 12/9 in WNC 12/10; RL 12/9, RMC 12/10 in WNC 12/11)

At weekly PC session, mbrs. threaten the executive with a no-confidence vote if it does not take firm action on behalf of prisoners, says the leadership is "not dealing seriously" with the prisoner issue in negotiations with Israel. (PR 12/13)

Responding to PM Netanyahu's 12/4 suggestion, Arafat says that he is willing to take part in a bilateral summit to finalize terms of an Israeli redeployment in Hebron. (WP 12/6)

Jordan, PA hold trade talks in Amman; discuss holding future trilateral economic mtgs. with Israel on provisions for Jordanian exports to/imports fr. the PA self-rule areas. (RJ 12/5 in WNC 12/9)

IDF says that 17 mos. ago, after 5 mos. of preparation, a special forces unit named Egoz began operating against Hizballah in s. Lebanon. To date Egoz mbrs., chosen fr. Golani Brigade recruits, have killed 16 Hizballah fighters or officials. 2 Egoz mbrs. have been killed. (MM 12/5; JP 12/14)

In New York, donors pledge $133 m. to the annual UNRWA pledging conference for regular programs, operations for 1997. (UNRWA press release 12/9; JT 12/13 in WNC 12/16)

Pres. Clinton nominates Amb. to the UN Albright for secy. of state, Sen. William S. Cohen (R-ME) for secy. of defense, National Security Adviser (NSA) Anthony Lake for CIA dir., Dep. NSA Samuel Berger for NSA. (ITV 12/5, MA 12/6 in WNC 12/9; MM, NYT, WP, WP 12/6; VIRI 12/6, RMC 12/7, al-Dustur 12/8 in WNC 12/10; MM 12/9; JT, RL 12/10 in WNC 12/11; WJW 12/12; MEI 12/20; WJW 12/26, 1/2)

PA announces it will make an official inquiry into Fityani's death in PA custody 12/3. (NYT 12/6; PR 12/13)

At the close of their mtg. in Amman, representatives of the 33 nations of the Euro-Arab Parliamentary Dialogue issue a declaration urging Israel to fulfill its commitments to the Oslo accords. (JT, JTV, RJ 12/1, JT 12/2 in WNC 12/3) (see 11/29)

In Cairo, Arab League holds emergency session on Israeli settlement activity, warns Israel that expanding settlements will endanger peacemaking; says existing settlements should be dismantled, but stops short of Syria's demand that Arabs suspend relations with Israel. (RE, RMC 12/1 in WNC 12/3; MM, NYT, WP, WT 12/2; WT 12/4; PR 12/6)

PM Netanyahu meets with Jordan valley settler leaders, says Jordan valley is "inseparable from the State of Israel," promises additional 470 housing units for the area, denounces Arab League statement. (MM, WP, WT 12/2; CSM 12/3)

In Cairo, Arafat briefs Pres. Mubarak on negotiations with Israel. (RE 12/2 in WNC 12/3)

Jordan's PM Kabariti, Iraq's trade M discuss trade btwn. the two nations ahead of implementation of the UN oil-for-food agmt. (JTV 12/2 in WNC 12/4) (see 11/25) (RJ 12/9 in WNC 12/11)

France assumes the chairmanship of ILMG fr. the U.S. (RL 12/1 in WNC 12/3) (see 7/12)

EU-Arab Parliamentary Dialogue holds executive mtg. in advance of its full session 11/30-12/1, which will be the 1st in 8 yrs. The 14 executive delegates decide to lobby for the postponement of ratification of the Euro-Mediterranean agmt. btwn. Europe and Israel to send a signal to Israel that they are unhappy with its current policies toward the peace process. (JT 12/1 in WNC 12/3)

Cameroon seconds Ethiopia's suggestion to find an alternative candidate for the UN secy. gen. position. (CSM, WT 12/3) (see 11/27)

25-mbr. unofficial Jordanian delegation travels to Iraq to discuss strengthening economic ties ahead of implementation of the UN oil-for-food deal. (JT 12/2 in WNC 12/3; RJ 12/5 in WNC 12/9) (see 11/25)

PC concludes weekly 2-day session in Ramallah. Talks focus on Jerusalem: PC mbrs. complain that numerous ministries deal with issues related to Jerusalem, but without coordination; ask Waqf's to account for its use of donations to the city fr. diaspora Palestinians; suggest a Jerusalem ministry be established. (PR 12/6)

In Jericho, Jordanian PM `Abd al-Karim Kabariti, Arafat discuss peace process, bilateral ties. (RJ 11/28 in WNC 12/2)

South Africa calls on Israel to withdraw fr. Hebron; to take action to show that it intends to comply with existing peace agmts.; to refrain fr. provocative actions, such as the 9/24 tunnel opening. (South African Press Association 11/28 in WNC 12/2) (see 9/10)

Jewish settlers confiscate 120 acres of Palestinian land around Urtas village nr. Bethlehem. (PR 12/6)

The Multilateral Working Group on Refugees opens a 2-day mtg. in Petra. (RJ 11/24 in WNC 11/26; JT 11/27 in WNC 12/2)

In Amman, Jordan, PA hold meeting on economic relations, increasing trade btwn. Jordan, self-rule areas. (JT 11/25 in WNC 11/26)

Saudi Arabian sources say investigators are working on the possibility that the 6/25 Khobar barracks bombing nr. Dahran was carried out by a Hizballah faction, with the aid of Syrian military intelligence. (WT 11/25; WT 11/28; WP 12/1)

In s. Lebanon, 1 SLA mbr. is slightly injured in a clash with Hizballah. (RL 11/25 in WNC 11/27)