In Tel Aviv, U.S. special envoy Dennis Ross meets with heads of Israeli, PA negotiating teams (Israeli FMin. Dir. Gen. Uri Savir, PA Economics M Ahmad Qurai`). (QY 11/18 in FBIS 11/20)
In Doha, Israeli, Qatari end 2 days of positive talks toward reaching an aviation agmt. Saudi Arabia says it will give authorization for overflights to Qatari jets headed to Tel Aviv. (MM 11/17; AFP 11/20 in FBIS 11/21)
Syria welcomes Israeli acting PM Peres's recent statements that he is willing to resume stalled peace talks. (WT 11/19)
PA approves formation of National Islamic Salvation Party (NISP). Hamas spokesman Mahmud Zahhar says NISP is not officially a Hamas arm but confirms that Hamas mbrs. have set up the party with the movement's knowledge, approval. Hamas issues leaflet reaffirming it will not take part in elections, calls Palestinians to boycott. (HA, QPAR 11/20 in FBIS 11/21; SA 11/23 in FBIS 11/24; al-Hayat 11/27 in FBIS 11/28)
At the opening of the Jordan Press Foundation Company, Jordanian PM Sharif Zaid Bin Shakir warns that the government will "support views and accept constructive criticism aimed at safeguarding national interests and achievements" but any "destructive criticism" denying these achievements "is tantamount to treason" and will not be tolerated. (JT 11/19 in FBIS 11/21)
Israeli security officials say Eyal head Avishai Raviv, arrested 11/8 in connection with Rabin's assassination and released 11/15, was a paid informer for Shin Bet. (NYT 11/19; NYT, WP, WT 11/20)