Sunday, December 22, 1996

U.S. special envoy Ross holds intensive talks with Israeli, PA negotiators, offers some ideas (not specified) for bridging gaps. DM Mordechai says that Israeli will implement further redeployment immediately after a Hebron deal is reached, if Arafat promises to "wage an uncompromising war against terrorism." (IDF Radio, ITV 12/22 in WNC 12/24; MM, NYT, WP 12/23)

In Lod, Israeli military court sentences 2 Palestinians to 2 consecutive life terms each for driving suicide bombers to the scenes of the 2-3/96 bombings in Israel. (WP, WT 12/23)

After 2 firebombs are thrown at a Jewish settlement without causing injuries, IDF imposes a curfew on Hebron; rounds up 100 Palestinians; then forces Palestinian stores to closes, prompting riot. (CSM, WP, WT 12/23; WJW 12/26)