jan 17, 1997 - Protocol Concerning the Redeployment in Hebron

Description:

The Hebron Protocol, also known as the Hebron Agreement, was signed on January 17, 1997, by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and PLO Chairman Yasser Arafat under the supervision of U.S. Secretary of State Warren Christopher. It outlined the partial redeployment of Israeli military forces from Hebron as stipulated in the 1995 Interim Agreement ("Oslo II"). The protocol divided Hebron into two areas: H-1, under Palestinian control, and H-2, remaining under Israeli control. Despite this division, a significant Palestinian majority resided in both areas. The redeployment began on January 16, 1997, although the protocol has never been ratified by either party.

Background
The Hebron Protocol marked the third partial Israeli withdrawal after the Gaza–Jericho Agreement and further withdrawals from populated Palestinian areas in the West Bank. Hebron was initially excluded from becoming Area A status like other West Bank cities under the Oslo II Accord. The withdrawal was initially scheduled to be completed before March 28, 1996.

Outline of the Protocol
Key Events:
January 7, 1997: Agreement on provisions concerning Hebron's Old City (Agreed Minute).
January 13, 1997: Netanyahu and Arafat meet with U.S. envoy Dennis Ross.
January 14, 1997: Announcement of agreement reached.
January 15, 1997: Approval by the Palestinian Authority and the PLO Executive Committee; Israeli Cabinet and Knesset approval follows.
January 16, 1997: IDF begins redeployment from Hebron.
January 17, 1997: Official signing of the Hebron Protocol by Israeli and Palestinian negotiators.
January 21, 1997: Agreement on the presence of an international monitoring group (TIPH).
Provisions of the Protocol:
IDF Withdrawal: From 80% of Hebron within ten days.
Division of Hebron: Into Area H-1 under Palestinian control and Area H-2 under Israeli control.
Reopening of Al-Shuhada Street: and the Hasbahe (wholesale market).
Further Redeployments: The first phase to be carried out in the first week of March.
Permanent Status Negotiations: To begin within two months after implementation, aiming for completion by May 4, 1999.
Security and Civil Arrangements:
Security Responsibilities: Palestinian police to assume responsibilities in Area H-1; Israel to retain control over internal security in Area H-2.
Joint Security Measures: Including joint mobile units.
Civil Powers: Transfer of civil powers and responsibilities to the Palestinian side.
Municipal Services: Regular and continuous provision to all parts of Hebron without discrimination.
International Monitoring Presence:
Temporary International Presence in Hebron (TIPH): A non-military group tasked with monitoring and promoting stability in Hebron. The TIPH consisted of personnel from Norway, Italy, Denmark, Sweden, Switzerland, and Turkey.
Additional Agreements:
Agreed Minute: Finalized on January 7, 1997, it included provisions for reopening Al-Shuhada Street.
Note for the Record: Spelled out commitments from both sides, reaffirming the implementation of the Interim Agreement.
Letter from Secretary of State Christopher: Emphasized the U.S. commitment to Israel's security and support for the full implementation of the Interim Agreement.
Memorandum of Understanding on TIPH: Detailed the operations and responsibilities of the TIPH.
Conclusion
The Hebron Protocol was a significant step in the Israeli-Palestinian peace process, addressing security and civil arrangements in Hebron and setting the stage for further negotiations on permanent status issues. However, the protocol has faced challenges and has never been fully ratified, reflecting the ongoing complexities and tensions in the region.

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