Social/Economic/Political
Occupied Palestine/Israel: In Jerusalem, 31st World Zionist Congress ends 5-day meeting after fight between American Jews and Likud supporters over control of Jewish Agency [WP 12/13]. Israel imposes 10-day distribution ban on al-Fajr in Gaza Strip and W. Bank, charging newspaper violated censorship rules. Newspaper's editorial board votes to cease publication until ban is lifted [FJ 12/13].
Arab World: Hizballah claims responsibility for attack on Israeli patrol boat 12/10, says Israeli boat was sunk, 35 sailors killed [NYT 12/12].
Other Countries: UN General Assembly's Com. on International Legal Matters votes 100 to 1 on resolution affirming PLO's right to maintain observer mission [NYT 12/12].
Military Action
Occupied Palestine/Israel: During demonstrations after noon prayers at Balatah refugee camp, at least 3 Palestinians are shot dead by Israeli troops; at least 7 others shot, wounded. Palestine Press Service reports 4 dead, at least 11 injured. Israel reports 3 police injured in day's fighting. Balatah sources charge Druze border guards have been harrassing, beating camp residents and today shot at Palestinians leaving mosque. Demonstrations are also reported in 'Askar and 'Ayn Bitilma refugee camps, Nablus, and Bayt Furik village. Balatah and 'Askar refugee camps are placed under curfew [WP 12/12; FJ 12/13]. In Gaza Strip's Jabalya refugee camp, 3 Palestinians are wounded by army gunfire [LAT 12/12].