1.   Palestinian officials have considered a recapture of Palestinian-controlled areas a major provocation.

2.   Palestinian officials have said they considered a recapture of Palestinian-controlled areas a major provocation.

3.   China had said an Aegis sale would be a major provocation.

4.   China had said the sale of Aegis equipment, a serious threat in any conflict with Taiwan, would be a major provocation.

5.   The attack on Sderot was considered a major provocation by Sharon, who has promised to restore a sense of security to Israelis.

6.   The attack was seen by Israel as a major provocation, and was expected to trigger sweeping retaliation.

7.   The first attack on an Israeli Cabinet minister by Palestinians was seen by Israel as a major provocation, and was expected to trigger sweeping retaliation.

8.   What diplomats fear is a major provocation that could force one side or the other to respond, setting off escalating violence.