Thursday, March 19, 1987

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israel formally acknowledges significant military ties to S. Africa, vows to reduce them gradually [WSJ, WP 3/20]. Israeli reports indicate Rafael Eitan in testimony before commission investigating Pollard spy affair stated he acted with "permission and authority" [NYT 3/20]. Haifa Central Court rules demolition order and heavy fine imposed by Fraidees village be canceled on grounds that village bypassed proper channels in declaring Arab-owned land "agricultural." Attorneys hope to use decision as precedent in similar cases within the green line [FJ 3/27]. Protests erupt in Rafah for third straight day [FJ 3/27]. Bomb explodes on road to Alfe Menasheh settlement near Nablus [FJ 3/27].

Arab World: Former U.S. Pres. Carter on visit to Cairo criticizes Reagan administration and Israeli policies, praises PLO Chairman Arafat's willingness to accept international peace conference without direct PLO participation [WP 3/20].