Ex-Prime Minister Yitzhak Shamir Dies CIE+ members only
Yitzhak Shamir, Israel’s seventh Prime Minister and staunch advocate for settlements in the West Bank, passes away in Tel Aviv at the age of 96.
Madrid Middle East Peace Conference Convenes CIE+ members only
The Soviet Union and the United States convene the Madrid Middle East Peace Conference, based on a two-track approach for bi-lateral as well as multi-lateral talks.
Israel, Soviet Union Resume Diplomatic Relations CIE+ members only
Relations between Israel and the USSR began to improve under the leadership of Mikhail Gorbachev. In 1987, the two countries established consular ties which coincided with the Soviet Union’s easing of restrictions on Jewish life and eventually opening the gates of immigration to Israel.
Shamir Fires Weizman Over PLO Contact CIE+ members only
Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Shamir dismisses Science Minister Ezer Weizman as a consequence of his contact with the PLO (Palestine Liberation Organization).
King Hussein Drops Claims to West Bank CIE+ members only
King Hussein of Jordan announces his intention to politically disengage from the West Bank, leaving the PLO to fill the political vacuum.
First Intifada Breaks Out CIE+ members only
December 9, 1987 Riots erupt in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank in what comes to be recognized as the start of the First Intifada, an Arabic word meaning “awakening” or “uprising.” The immediate…
Israelis Participate in Conference With Moroccan Jews CIE+ members only
In 1984, there were approximately 20,000 Jews in Morocco. Both Israelis and Arabs were suspicious of the May 13-14 Conference on the Jewish Communities of Morocco which was held in Rabat.
Abu Musa Declares a Palestinian Revolt Against Arafat CIE+ members only
Palestinian militant factions unsuccessfully challenge Arafat’s control during the First Lebanon War.
