The Palestine Chronology

The IDF continues its assault on the Gaza Strip by land, air, and sea, killing 79 Palestinians. In the most deadly incident of the day, an Israeli air strike hits a family home in Nussayrat r.c., killing 11 Palestinians. Armed Palestinian groups fire over 90 projectiles into Israel, with Iron Dome batteries intercepting 17 projectiles. The rocket fire injures 2 Israeli civilians. In the West Bank, armed Palestinians open fire on Israeli settlement Shavei Shomron nr. Nablus, causing no casualties. The IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 1 village nr. Jenin and in Tubas at night. Jewish settlers shoot and injure a Palestinian nr. al-Khadir in the Bethlehem region. (AP, HA, JP, MNA, REU, YA 7/31; PCHR 8/1)

During the day, White House spokesperson Josh Earnest says the shelling of a UN school the previous day is “totally indefensible” and that “it does not appear there is a lot of doubt about whose artillery was involved in this incident.” (AFP, AP, MNA, 7/31)

 In Cairo, a Palestinian delegation including Hamas and Islamic Jihad reps. discuss a ceasefire agreement with Fatah reps. and Egyptian authorities. (AP, HA, JP, MNA, 7/31)

In the evening, U.S. Secy. of State Kerry and UN Secy.-Gen. Ban release a joint statement announcing a 72-hour cease-fire agreed to by all parties, to begin 8/1 at 8:00 A.M. local time. During that time, negotiators from all sides will discuss a longer-term agreement in Cairo. The IDF intends to continue searching for and destroying tunnels during the truce. Also, they call up a further 16,000 reservists. (AP, HA, JP, MNA, REU, YA 7/31)

The IDF continues its assault on the Gaza Strip by air, land, and sea, killing 132 Palestinians. In one attack, Israeli artillery fire hits an UNRWA school serving as a shelter for the displaced, killing at least 16. Following the attack on the power plant on 7/29, electricity in Gaza City is only available for 2 hours a day and large areas of c. Gaza have no electricity at all. In the West Bank, an armed Palestinian opens fire at IDF troops during a raid in Qublan village nr. Nablus, causing 1 injury. The IDF conducts raids during the day in Hebron and 2 villages and al-‘Arub r.c. nearby, and 1 village nr. Salfit. (AFP, AP, HA, JP, MNA, REU 7/30; PCHR 7/31)

In response to the attack on the UNRWA school, White House dep. press secy. Eric Schultz says that the Obama administration expects “a full, prompt and thorough investigation” into the shelling, but does not mention Israeli strikes in the area. UN Secy.- Gen. Ban condemns the Israeli attack on the UNRWA school “in the strongest possible terms” as “outrageous” and “unjustifiable.” PA Pres. Abbas says in a letter to Ban that Gaza has become a “humanitarian disaster area” and urges the UN to use “all tools available” to “provide relief and help to the Palestinian people.” (AFP, AP, HA, REU, YA 7/30)

Abbas continues talks with officials from Egypt, the U.S., and others, along with Hamas and Islamic Jihad, to work toward a cease-fire. Two Israeli officials visit Cairo for a few hours to discuss proposals for a truce with Egyptian officials. (JP, MNA, REU, YA 7/30)

The IDF continues its assault on the Gaza Strip, conducting air strikes and advancing its ground offensive. Israeli attacks kill 144 Palestinians. In air strikes on 3 homes in Khan Yunis, 13 Palestinians from the same family are killed. Israeli tank fire hits Gaza’s only power plant, partially destroying it and further cutting electricity to Gaza City and other parts of the territory. The plant’s director says that it is “finished.” Meanwhile, the IDF gives evacuation orders to more than 400,000 residents of n. Gaza. Armed Palestinian groups fire rockets into Israel, with air raid sirens in Ashqelon and nr. Jerusalem, among other places. Iron Dome batteries intercept 1 rocket above the Gush Etzion settlement bloc nr. Bethlehem, a projectile claimed by al-Quds Brigades. In the West Bank, a Palestinian dies in Hebron, succumbing to injuries he received in clashes with IDF troops on 7/20. The IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids into 1 village nr. Nablus and Tulkarm at night. (AFP, AP, JP, MNA, REU, YA 7/29; PCHR 7/30)

PLO official Yasir ‘Abid Rabbuh announces that the various factions agreed to a 24-hour truce, but his claim is subsequently denied by Hamas. Al-Qassam Brigades head Mohammed Deif says in an audio address that there will be no long-term cease-fire without “the stop of the aggression and the end of the siege.” (AFP, AP, Guardian, HA, JP, MNA, REU, YA 7/29)

In the Gaza Strip, the IDF continues its ground offensive as well as air strikes, killing 53 Palestinians, around 10 of whom die in a strike on a park in al-Shati r.c., which the eyewitnesses blame on an IDF drone strike and the IDF army says was a misfired Palestinian rocket. In the evening, the IDF sends text messages and phone calls to residents in n. and e. neighborhoods of Gaza City, telling them to evacuate their homes and leave for c. Gaza City. Palestinians continue to fire rockets and mortar shells into Israel, with a mortar shell killing 4 IDF soldiers nr. the Gaza border. In the West Bank, IDF troops shoot and injure 3 Palestinians outside Yatta nr. Hebron during a protest against the attack on Gaza. The IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 1 village each nr. Nablus and Ramallah at night. In East Jerusalem, Palestinian protesters clash with Israeli security forces in Jabal Mukabir and Issawiyya, causing no serious injuries. (AFP, AP, HA, JP, MNA, REU, WAFA 7/28; PCHR 7/30)

In New York City, UN Secy.-Gen. Ban says that both Israelis and Palestinians have expressed interest in a further 24-hour truce but no deal has been reached. Ban also raises concerns about the proportionality of Israel’s actions, saying that the destruction in Gaza had been described by some as a “man-made hurricane.” Meanwhile, in Washington, U.S. Secy. of State Kerry says that efforts to secure a truce between Israel and Hamas must ultimately include the disarmament of the latter. U.S. Pres. Obama, French pres. Francois Hollande, German chancellor Angela Merkel, British PM David Cameron, and Italian PM Matteo Renzi hold a teleconference to discuss various issues, including the escalation of violence in Gaza. (AFP, AP, HA, JP, MNA, REU, WAFA 7/28)

After the conclusion of the humanitarian cease-fire, which Israeli unilaterally extended on 7/26, the IDF resumes its assault on the Gaza Strip, killing 16 Palestinians. Armed Palestinian groups fire around 20 rockets into Israel in the early morning. (AFP, AP, HA, MNA, REU, YA 7/27; PCHR 7/28)

U.S. Pres. Obama speaks to Israeli PM Netanyahu on the telephone, saying it is “strategically imperative” to reach a humanitarian cease-fire that “leads to a permanent cessation of hostilities based on the 11/2012 cease-fire agreement.” Obama also expresses support for the Egyptian diplomatic efforts and affirms that the PA must be part of the solution for the Gaza Strip. Meanwhile, Hamas leader Mish‘al says on U.S. television that a lasting cease-fire must be based on lifting the blockade. Also, Hamas calls for a 24-hour humanitarian cease-fire to mark ‘Id. Late at night, the UNSC agrees on a presidential statement drafted by Jordan calling for “an immediate and unconditional humanitarian cease-fire.” Israel, however, rejects the calls from Hamas and the UNSC. (AFP, AP, HA, MNA, REU, YA 7/27)

In the Gaza Strip, the IDF continues its assault on the Gaza Strip, killing 151 Palestinians, except during a 12-hour humanitarian cease-fire. There are no Israeli strikes during the pause, but IDF troops continue to destroy tunnels. During the pause, residents of Gaza stock up on supplies and inspect the damage done to property. The armed Palestinian groups fire rockets into Israel both before the 12-hour humanitarian cease-fire and immediately after, causing no serious damage or injuries. The IDF announces that 2 soldiers died of their wounds. In the West Bank, IDF troops clash with Palestinians nr. Hebron, at the funeral for a man killed the previous day in al-‘Arub r.c., causing no serious injuries. IDF troops shoot and wound 6 Palestinians with live ammunition in n. Bethlehem, during clashes nr. Rachel’s Tomb. In Bayt Furik nr. Nablus, IDF troops injure 5 with live ammunition during clashes with residents. The IDF also conducts house searches and arrest raids in al-Bireh in the morning. (AFP, AP, MNA, REU, WAFA 7/26; PCHR 7/27)

In the morning, U.S. Secy. of State Kerry and senior European diplomats, including the FMs of France, Britain, Germany, and Italy, as well as their counterparts from Qatar and Turkey, meet in Paris and call for an extension of the 12-hour humanitarian cease-fire. French FM Fabius, speaking for the group, says that they all “want to obtain, as quickly as possible, a durable, negotiated cease-fire that responds both to Israeli needs in terms of security and to Palestinian needs in terms of the socialeconomic development and access to the territory of Gaza.” (AFP, AP, HA, JP, MNA, REU, WAFA 7/26)

In the evening, the Israeli security cabinet responds to the calls from the international community and decides to unilaterally extend the humanitarian cease-fire for 4 hours, then an additional 24 hours, though IDF troops will continue seeking out and destroying tunnels. Al-Qassam Brigades and other Palestinian groups do not agree to the extension, and fire rockets into Israel, causing no damage or injuries. (AFP, AP, MNA, REU, WAFA 7/26)

The IDF continues its assault on the Gaza Strip by land, sea, and air, killing 66 Palestinians. Armed Palestinian groups fire more than 80 rockets into Israel, with 16 intercepted by Iron Dome batteries. Palestinian fighters kill 2 Israeli soldiers in Gaza. Across the West Bank, there are large demonstrations against the attack on Gaza in Bethlehem, Jenin, Nablus, Ramallah, Salfit, Tulkarm, and other locations. IDF troops kill 7 Palestinians as clashes break out during the protests. In one of the clashes, at Hawara checkpoint, an Israeli settler kills a Palestinian, bringing the day’s total to 8. In addition, IDF troops violently disperse Palestinian, Israeli, and international protesters at weekly demonstrations against Israel’s separation wall, settlements, and occupation in 3 villages nr. Ramallah (Bil‘in, Nabi Salih, and Ni‘lin), and 1 village nr. Qalqilya (Kafr Qaddum). There are no serious injuries, except in Bil‘in, where 1 is injured by a bullet, and Ni‘lin, where 2 are injured by bullets. In addition, Jewish settlers attack 2 Palestinians in Bayt Hanina, seriously injuring 1. In East Jerusalem, Israeli security forces clash with Palestinians after worshippers under the age of 50 are banned from entering Haram al-Sharif, injuring around 40. (AFP, AP, HA, JP, MNA, YA 7/25; PCHR 7/26)

Meanwhile, in the early afternoon the Israeli cabinet rejects a draft of cease-fire principles proposed by U.S. Secy. of State Kerry, which he based partly on consultations with reps. of Qatar and Turkey. A senior Israeli official reportedly later described the proposal as a “strategic terrorist attack.” Later, Secy. Kerry meets with the UN’s Ban and Arab League Secy.-Gen. al-‘Arabi to discuss the latest developments in Gaza. Kerry also meets with Egyptian FM Shoukri. (AFP, AP, HA, JP, JP 7/25; HA 7/28)

In the evening, the UN, U.S., Egypt, and the Arab League call for an extendable 12-hour humanitarian cease-fire. PM Netanyahu tells Secy. of State Kerry that Israel will observe the humanitarian pause the following day, but the IDF will continue working to locate “terror tunnels.” Hamas spokesperson Abu Zuhri says that al-Qassam Brigades and other factions will observe the humanitarian pause. (AFP, AP, JP, MNA, YA 7/25)

The IDF continues its assault on the Gaza Strip by land, air, and sea, attacking over 90 targets and killing 104 Palestinians. One IDF strike on a UN-run school in Bayt Hanun kills at least 15, and wounds 200, mostly women and children seeking shelter. The Israeli army says it is investigating the incident and that “terrorists” opened fire at IDF personnel from the area of the school. Palestinians fire around 60 rockets into Israel, 15 of which are intercepted by Iron Dome, causing no damage or injuries (including 5 over Tel Aviv). On the ground in Gaza, al-Quds Brigades and al-Qassam Brigades claim to have killed 4 and 8 Israeli soldiers, respectively. In the West Bank, a reported 10,000 Palestinians gather in protest of the assault on Gaza and march from c. Ramallah to Qalandia checkpoint, where clashes with IDF troops break out. IDF troops kill 2 and injure more than 200 protesters, including 60 with live ammunition. The IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in Nablus in the morning. In East Jerusalem, Israeli security forces set up checkpoints to restrict access to Haram al-Sharif, leading to clashes and the arrest of 12 Palestinian youth. (AFP, AP, HA, JP, MNA, REU, YA 7/24; PCHR 7/25)

Secy. of State Kerry meets with UN Secy.- Gen. Ban in Cairo once more. Meanwhile, in Amman, PA Pres. Abbas meets with Jordan’s King Abdallah and says “there is hope for a cease-fire” along the lines of “the Egyptian initiative” before fuller negotiations about wider demands. Kerry reaches out to Turkish and Qatari diplomats in an effort to garner support from Hamas’s regional allies for his cease-fire initiative. (AFP, AP, JP, MNA, REU, YA 7/24)

Rivlin is sworn in as the new pres. of Israel, succeeding Peres. (HA 7/24)

The IDF continues its assault of the Gaza Strip, killing 64 Palestinians, primarily in the s. Khan Yunis area. The IDF says that it is hitting “concealed rocket launchers, terror tunnels, militant compounds, and terror activity posts located within the premises of al-Wafa hospital.” Severe shortages in electricity, water, and medical supplies continue to affect Palestinians in Gaza, with the UN estimating that the total number of displaced has risen to 118,300. Palestinians kill 3 Israeli soldiers inside the Gaza Strip, and severely wound another 2, in an attack claimed by al-Quds Brigades. Armed Palestinian groups fire rockets into s. Israel at a diminished rate relative to previous days, causing no damage and killing 1 Thai worker nr. the border fence. In the West Bank, IDF troops shoot and kill 1 Palestinian man during clashes that break out after a protest in Husan village nr. Bethlehem. Clashes also break out in Silwad, and IDF troops injure 2 Palestinians with rubber-coated metal bullets. The IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 2 villages nr. Nablus. (AFP, AP, JP, MNA, REU, YA 7/23)

The FAA extends the previous day’s ban on U.S. airline flights to Ben-Gurion Airport for an additional 24 hours. (AFP, AP, JP 7/23)

In a televised speech from Doha, Hamas leader Mish‘al responds to the international calls for a cease-fire, saying that Hamas “cannot accept any proposal that does not include the lifting of the siege.” Mish‘al also calls for a “humanitarian truce” of a few hours “to evacuate the wounded and assist in the relief.” (AFP, AP, HA, MNA 7/23)

In response to an Israeli request on 7/20, the U.S. Defense Dept. agrees to resupply the IDF with arms from the War Reserves Stockpile based in Israel. Details of the sale are not reported until 7/30. (AFP, AP 7/23; Guardian 7/30)

U.S. Secy. of State Kerry holds talks with UN Secy.-Gen. Ban in Jerusalem, their 2d meeting of the week. Kerry says afterward that “we have certainly made some steps forward, but there is still work to be done.” Kerry also meets with Pres. Abbas in Ramallah and then with Israeli PM Netanyahu in Tel Aviv, before returning to Cairo with no sign of an imminent breakthrough that might enable a cease-fire. (HA, JP, MNA, YA 7/23)

The UN Human Rights Council in Geneva passes a res., 29–1–17, condemning Israel’s occupation and the current assault on Gaza, as well as commissioning an investigation into potential war crimes committed during the current Gaza conflict, with the U.S. casting the sole “no” vote. Israeli PM Netanyahu calls the vote a “travesty,” while Israel’s Justice Minister Tzipi Livni responds on Facebook with the comment: “Get lost.” UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Navi Pillay says that there is a “strong possibility” Israel is committing war crimes in the Gaza Strip. (AFP, AP, HA, JP, MNA, YA 7/23)

The IDF continues its assault on the Gaza Strip, killing 61 Palestinians. Local officials say targets struck include 5 mosques and a soccer stadium, in addition to other Palestinian infrastructure and multiple tunnels. Prolonged Israeli shelling of Khan Yunis kills at least 6 and wounds more than 20. Also, the IDF strikes a UNRWA-run school in c. Gaza. Palestinian fighters kill 2 Israeli soldiers overnight and fire approximately 67 rockets and mortar shells into Israel, with 18 projectiles intercepted by Iron Dome batteries. In the West Bank, an Israeli citizen shoots and kills a Palestinian man between al-Ram and Hizma checkpoint n. of Jerusalem, reportedly after the Palestinian man threw stones at the Israeli’s car. IDF troops shoot and injure 5 Palestinians in ‘Askar r.c. nr. Nablus, during clashes in an arrest raid. The IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in Nablus and 2 villages nr. Ramallah at night. In East Jerusalem, Israeli security forces clash with Palestinians in at-Tur, Shu‘fat r.c., and Issawiyya, causing no serious injuries. (AFP, AP, JP, MNA, REU, YA 7/22; PCHR 7/23)

After 1 rocket lands nr. Ben Gurion Airport, the U.S. Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) bans flights to and from Israel for at least 24 hours, and the European Aviation Safety Agency advises all carriers to avoid Tel Aviv “until further notice.” Israel’s Transportation Minister Yisrael Katz, in a statement, says “there is no need for U.S. carriers to suspend flights and reward terrorism.” U.S. Secy. of State Kerry and PM Netanyahu later discuss the FAA ban on a phone call. (AFP, AP, JP, MNA, REU, YA 7/22)

At a monthly meeting of the EU Council, the 28 EU FMs issue a statement that “strongly condemns the indiscriminate firing of rockets into Israel by Hamas and militant groups in the Gaza Strip” and also “condemns calls on the civilian population of Gaza to provide themselves as human shields.” Meanwhile, Secy. of State Kerry meets with Egypt’s Pres. al-Sisi in Cairo to discuss Gaza, and afterward, affirms that “there is a framework available to end the violence, and that framework was the Egyptian initiative.” Senior Fatah official al-Ahmad flies in to Cairo to also meet with Kerry. In Israel, UN Secy.-Gen. Ban meets with PM Netanyahu and at a Tel Aviv press conference, Ban condemns the rocket attacks, while the Israeli leader accuses Hamas of committing a “double war crime” of targeting Israeli civilians while using Palestinian civilians as human shields. (AFP, AP, HA, JP, MNA, REU, YA 7/22)

The IDF continues its attacks on the Gaza Strip from land, sea and air, killing 78 Palestinians, including 25 people from a single family nr. the border with Egypt and 10 who die in Khan Yunis after shells hit their home repeatedly as they try to flee. An air strike on a tower in c. Gaza City kills 11, including 5 children. IDF troops shell al-Aqsa Hospital in c. Gaza, killing 4 and wounding 70. Palestinian fighters kill 9 Israeli soldiers during the fighting on the ground. Al-Qassam Brigades target Haifa, Tel Aviv, and Ashdod with rocket fire, with over 50 rockets fired into Israel, causing no injuries. In an al-Qassam Brigades operation, 12 Palestinian fighters enter Israel by a tunnel nr. Bayt Hanun and attack an IDF site, killing 4 and destroying a jeep with an RPG shell. Ten of the Palestinian fighters are killed in the operation and the other 2 return through the tunnel. In the West Bank, the IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in Hebron, 1 nearby village and al-Fawar r.c., and 1 village nr. Qalqilya at night; patrols in 2 villages nr. Jericho and 1 village each nr. Hebron and Ramallah during the day. (AFP, AP, JP, MNA, REU, YA 7/21; PCHR 7/22)

Speaking in a televised address, former Hamas PM Haniyeh says that “Gaza has decided to end the blockade by its blood and its heroism,” adding, “We cannot go back to the silent death” of the siege. Israeli DM Ya’alon tells a parliamentary comm. that the operation will continue “as long as necessary until the completion of the task.” However, Ya’alon mentions that the Israeli govt. would welcome the PA unity govt. exercising authority in Gaza, in an apparent reversal of policy. In Doha, Hamas leader Mish‘al meets with Pres. Abbas for the 1st time since the war began. PA spokesperson Abu Rudayna reiterates the PA leadership’s call for an immediate cease-fire as a way of realizing “the national goals of the Palestinian people.” In Cairo, UN Secy.-Gen. Ban holds talks with Egyptian FM Shoukri aimed at pressing for an immediate truce. Secy. of State Kerry also arrives in Cairo to facilitate the cease-fire talks. Kerry announces that the U.S. will send $47 m. in humanitarian aid to Gaza. Meanwhile, the IDF requests access to the U.S. War Reserves Stockpile based in Israel to resupply its munitions. (AFP, AP, HA, JP, MNA, REU, YA 7/21)

The IDF continues its assault on the Gaza Strip by air and sea, and intensifies its ground offensive, especially in the Shuja‘iya neighborhood in e. Gaza City, killing 149 Palestinians. Palestinian fighters kill 13 Israeli soldiers and injure 53 others. In the West Bank, IDF troops open fire on Palestinians gathered to demonstrate in Hebron, Ramallah, and the surrounding areas, injuring dozens in Hebron, Qalandia, and Jalazun r.c. The rallies are celebrating the reported capture by Palestinians in Gaza of a live Israeli soldier. The IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 2 villages nr. Jenin in the morning, and in 1 village each nr. Hebron and Ramallah at night; patrols in al-‘Arub r.c. nr. Jenin during the day. (AFP, AP, JP, MNA, REU, YA 7/20; PCHR 7/21)

In Tel Aviv, PM Netanyahu says that the IDF is carrying out “complex, deep, intensive activity” in the Gaza Strip, for which there is “very strong support within the international community.” At the same press conference, DM Ya’alon says that in his “assessment,” the “lion’s share of the tunnels” will be destroyed “in another 2 or 3 days.” In the evening, the UNSC holds an emergency meeting, at the request of Jordan’s reps., and expresses “serious concern about the growing number of casualties.” Mbrs. call “for an immediate cessation of hostilities.” In Doha, UN Secy.-Gen. Ban meets with Qatari emir Shaykh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani and PA Pres. Abbas. While there, Ban condemns what he calls the “atrocious action” of the IDF in killing “dozens more civilians.” Hamas leader Mish‘al visits Kuwait for talks with the emir, whose country currently holds the rotating presidency of the Arab League. The latter issues a statement describing Israel’s attacks on al-Shuja‘iya as a “war crime.” (AFP, AP, HA, JP, MNA, REU, YA 7/20)

Israeli attacks by land, air, and sea on the Gaza Strip continue, killing 47 Palestinians. A unit of al-Qassam Brigades fighters enters Israeli territory through a cross-border tunnel and kills Israeli soldiers nr. Sufa, e. of Rafah. The Hamas armed wing says that 5 soldiers are killed while the IDF says it is only 2. In fighting in Gaza City, Palestinian fighters wound 3 Israeli soldiers. The armed Palestinian groups fire around 90 rockets into Israel, killing 1 and wounding 3 in a bedouin village in the Negev. The IDF says that its forces have unearthed and destroyed 34 “terror tunnels,” 5 of which crossed the Gaza border fence. The IDF says that Palestinian factions have used up or lost around half of their rocket supplies, with 30–40% destroyed by Israeli attacks, and 10–20% fired into Israel. In the West Bank, IDF troops clash with Palestinian youth in n. Bethlehem, injuring 3 with live ammunition. There are also clashes in Hebron, where IDF troops shoot and injure 1 Palestinian, and in al-‘Arub r.c., where 5 are injured. The IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 1 village nr. Hebron at night; patrols in Hebron and 1 village, al-‘Arub r.c. and al-Fawar r.c. nearby, in 5 villages nr. Ramallah, and 2 villages nr. Jericho during the day. (AFP, AP, HA, MNA, REU, YA 7/19; PCHR 7/20)

Meanwhile, French FM Fabius holds talks with Netanyahu about a cease-fire. After the meeting, Fabius tells reporters that“the call for a cease-fire has not been heard, and on the contrary, there’s a risk of more civilian casualties.” Senior Hamas official Usama Hamdan says that Turkey and Qatar are trying to help secure an end to the violence. (AFP, AP, HA, MNA, REU, YA 7/19)

During the day, the IDF launches multiple strikes on targets across the Gaza Strip, killing 21 Palestinians, except during a 5-hour humanitarian cease-fire. After the humanitarian pause, Palestinian groups resume rocket fire into Israel, launching 105 projectiles, 20 of which are intercepted by Iron Dome batteries. One Israeli soldier nr. the border is wounded by a mortar shell just before the end of the pause. Meanwhile, 13 armed Palestinians enter Israel through a tunnel, but their attack is halted by IDF troops. Reports differ on whether or not 1 Palestinian is killed during the attack. Palestinians also launch a drone into s. Israel, which IDF troops shoot down nr. Ashqelon. UNRWA announces that 20 rockets were discovered in an unused school in Gaza, and condemns those responsible for a “flagrant breach” of international law. (AFP, AP, HA, JP, MNA, REU 7/17; AJ, PCHR 7/18)

At approximately 10:30 P.M., the IDF launches a ground invasion of the Gaza Strip, beginning with heavy artillery shelling of Bayt Hanun and Bayt Lahiya in the n. and incursions nr. the border fence to expand the buffer zone. IDF spokesperson Peter Lerner says the invasion has 2 objectives: “to strike Hamas . . . so they do not have the motivation to continue” and “to strike the terrorist infrastructure, the rockets, the tunnels.” During the invasion, 1 Israeli soldier is killed by friendly fire. Israeli media report that the ground invasion is initiated largely in response to the tunnel attack early in the day. (AFP, AP, HA, JP, MNA, REU 7/17; AJ, PCHR 7/18)

In the West Bank, IDF troops shoot a Palestinian farmer nr. Nablus, shoot and injure 1 resident during clashes in al-Fara’a r.c. nr. Tubas, and shoot and injure 2 residents during clashes nr. Ramallah. IDF troops also shoot and injure 7 Palestinians during a demonstration at Qalandia checkpoint. The IDF conducts house searches, arrest raids in 1 village nr. Qalqilya at night; patrols in 3 villages and al-‘Arub r.c. nr. Hebron and 1 village nr. Salfit in the afternoon. Meanwhile, armed Palestinians open fire on IDF troops at a checkpoint nr. Ramallah, causing no injuries. In East Jerusalem, Israeli security forces raid Haram al-Sharif and assault worshippers protesting a visit by rightwing Jewish activists. Israeli forces also detain approximately 36 Palestinians. Meanwhile, police charge 3 Jewish Israelis with the murder of Abu Khdeir. (AFP, AP, HA, JP, MNA, REU 7/17; AJ, PCHR 7/18)

UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process Serry requests a 5-hour humanitarian cease-fire and it is observed. An unnamed Israeli defense official tells the media that the cease-fire is for Palestinians in Gaza to see the damage wrought by Israel thus far. (AFP, AP, HA, REU 7/17)

Hours before the ground invasion starts, the U.S. Senate agrees to a nonbinding res. condemning the rocket fire against Israel and reiterating Israel’s right to defend itself. The res. has 78 cosponsors and the support of many U.S.-based, pro-Israel groups, including AIPAC. (AFP, AP, JP 7/17; AJ 7/18)

The IDF strikes over 50 targets across the Gaza Strip, including the Interior Ministry building and a hospital, killing 23 Palestinians. Among these are 4 children, who are killed when IDF troops shell a beach nr. Gaza City, an attack witnessed by a number of international journalists. IDF troops also destroy the house of a high-ranking Hamas political figure. Palestinians fire more than 60 rockets into Israel, including rockets aimed at Ashqelon and Ashdod. Iron Dome batteries intercept 4 of the projectiles. Rockets cause damage in Ashdod and Tel Aviv, and 1 soldier is injured. In the West Bank, the IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in Hebron and 1 nearby village at night. (AFP, AP, HA, MNA, NYT, REU 7/16; PCHR 7/17)

UNRWA says that the Gaza Strip’s health system is on the brink of collapse, with 600,000 people facing water shortages and 22,000 seeking refuge in school shelters. (AP, HA, MNA, NYT 7/16)

Israeli DM Ya’alon asks Netanyahu’s security cabinet to authorize the mobilization of another 8,000 reserve troops, adding to the approximately 30,000 that have already been called up since 7/8. (AP, HA, NYT, REU 7/16)

After Hamas rejected the Egyptian cease-fire proposal the previous day, Dep. Hamas leader Abu Marzuq meets Egyptian officials and offers terms Hamas seeks in a cease-fire deal, such as “fully lifting the blockade on Gaza, including opening all the crossings and releasing the rearrested prisoners.” (See the Quarterly Update in JPS 173 for more on Hamas’s terms.) Pres. Abbas meets with Abu Marzuq in Cairo, and separately with Egypt’s Pres. al-Sisi and FM Sameh Shoukri, as well as Arab League chief al-‘Arabi. He also speaks with Hamas leader Mish‘al by telephone. Meanwhile, Secy. of State Kerry says that the U.S. is doing “everything in our power” to end the violence, in remarks he makes on an official visit to Luxembourg. Kerry speaks with the FMs of Egypt, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. Pres. Obama says that the U.S. supports Egypt’s efforts to secure a cease-fire and restoration of the 11/2012 agreement. (AFP, AP, HA, MNA, REU, YA 7/16)

IDF strikes in the Gaza Strip continue, except in the hours following the govt.’s acceptance of the Egyptian cease-fire, killing 13 Palestinians. The IDF warns 100,000 residents of the al-Zaytun and al-Shuja‘iya neighborhoods to evacuate before morning on 7/16. Palestinians fire more than 120 rockets into Israel, including dozens directed at Tel Aviv, in a barrage claimed jointly by al-Qassam Brigades and al-Quds Brigades. Nr. the Erez crossing, 1 Israeli civilian is killed by a mortar shell while distributing food supplies to IDF soldiers. Nine rockets are intercepted by Iron Dome, and the rest caused no damage or injuries. (AFP, AP, HA, MNA, REU, WAFA 7/15)

Israel’s security cabinet votes 6–2 in favor of accepting the Egyptian cease-fire proposal from the previous day, and the IDF stops all strikes for several hours. PM Netanyahu says that if Hamas rejects the initiative, Israel will have “legitimacy” to take further action “to restore quiet.” PA Pres. Abbas, in Cairo for talks with Egyptian pres. al-Sisi, calls for the acceptance of the proposal. However, Hamas rejects the text, describing it as “an initiative of kneeling and submission,” and both the armed Palestinian groups and the IDF continue hostilities. Hamas spokesperson Abu Zuhri says that the group was ignored by Egyptian mediators, with Islamic Jihad official Khalid al-Batsh commenting that “initiatives shouldn’t be proposed through media outlets, but rather through the obvious channels, which are resistance factions and their leaders.” An unnamed senior PLO official says that “the Egyptians coordinated the initiative with Abbas and ignored Gaza,” and thus “Hamas leaders felt humiliated by the fact that the proposal was released without them being consulted about its contents ahead of time.” (AFP, AP, HA, MNA, REU, WAFA 7/15; PCHR 7/16)

After Hamas rejects the deal, Netanyahu vows to “significantly expand our offensive,” saying that the group “will pay for its decision.” Meanwhile, Dep. DM Danny Danon describes the Israeli govt.’s response to the Gaza crisis as a “failure” and Netanyahu fires him. (AFP, AP, HA, REU 7/15)

Suspected Salafi jihadists fire 3 rockets from the Sinai Peninsula, Egypt, into Israel, wounding 4 civilians in Eilat. (REU 7/15)

In Vienna, reps. of Iran and the P5+1 powers continue their negotiations leading up to the 7/20 deadline for a comprehensive agreement on Iran’s disputed nuclear program. U.S. Secy. of State Kerry says they “have made progress . . . but there’s still more work to do.” Iranian FM Zarif says that Iran wants to “arrive at a solution everyone can be happy about.” The key issues remaining are Iran’s centrifuges and its uranium enrichment capacity over the next 10 years. (ALM, NYT 7/15)

The IDF conducts approximately 100 strikes on targets across the Gaza Strip, killing 14 Palestinians in Bayt Hanun, Rafah, Khan Yunis and Dayr al-Balah. Hospitals in Gaza report a serious shortage of medicines and equipment, particularly for trauma injuries. Palestinians fire around 100 rockets and mortar shells into Israel, causing damage and seriously wounding 2 children in the bedouin village of Lakia. Iron Dome batteries intercept 15 of the projectiles. In addition, al-Qassam Brigades fly a drone into s. Israel along the coast nr. Ashdod, and the Israeli Air Force (IAF) shoots it down. In the West Bank, IDF troops shoot and kill a 22-year-old Palestinian civilian in clashes nr. Hebron. In Bayt Umar nr. Hebron, IDF troops shoot and injure 2 Palestinians in another confrontation. Separately, IDF troops detain 11 Hamas parliamentarians in Nablus, Jenin, and Salfit. (AFP, AP, HA, JP, MNA, REU 7/14; PCHR 7/15)

Following a meeting of Arab League FMs in the evening, Egypt’s Foreign Ministry proposes a cease-fire to start the next day, followed by talks in Cairo. The Arab League welcomes the proposal. An Israeli official says that PM Netanyahu will discuss the proposal the following day with his security cabinet. (AFP, AP, HA, JP, MNA, REU 7/14)

A rocket launched from inside Lebanon hits n. Israel, causing no damage or injuries, the 4th such attack in recent days. IDF troops respond with artillery shells. (REU 7/14)

The IDF launches dozens of air strikes across the Gaza Strip, killing 28 Palestinians and wounding approximately 550. There are fatal strikes in Gaza City, Rafah, Dayr al-Balah, Jabaliya, Khan Yunis, and Bayt Lahiya, among others. Palestinians fire dozens of projectiles into Israel, with 1 rocket hitting a house in Ashdod, causing damage. Other targeted towns include Beersheba, Ashqelon, and Sdot Negev in the s., and Rehovot, Yavne, Lod, Ramle, and Gadera in the c. Iron Dome batteries intercept 2 rockets fired at the Jerusalem area and 2 others fall in open areas. A mortar shell injures 2 Israeli soldiers close to the border. (AFP, AP, HA, JP, MNA, REU 7/10; PCHR 7/11)

Israeli PM Netanyahu says that attacks will continue to “expand and continue until the fire on our communities is over and the quiet returns.” The PM also tells mbrs. of the Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Comms. that a cease-fire with Hamas is not on the agenda. Islamic Jihad spokesperson Abu Ahmad says the “factions in Gaza are not going to surrender.” At an emergency meeting of the UNSC in New York, UN Secy.-Gen. Ban says that “it is now more urgent than ever to try to find common ground for a return to calm and a cease-fire understanding,” and that he has been in contact with Israel, the PA, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Egypt, the Arab League, the U.S., and the EU. Palestinian UN amb. Riyad Mansour tells the meeting that the international community is obliged to ensure protection of Palestinian civilians, and accuses Israel of violating its responsibility as an occupying power. Israeli UN amb. Ron Prosor says Hamas is “committing a double war crime: targeting Israeli civilians while hiding behind Palestinian civilians.” Pres. Obama telephones PM Netanyahu and tells him that the U.S. is willing to help negotiate a cease-fire. State Dept. spokesperson Psaki says that Kerry has been “reaching out to countries in the region” including Qatar and Egypt, which “can play a role in bringing an end to the rocket fire from Hamas.” (AFP, AP, HA, JP, MNA, REU 7/10)

The IDF strikes targets across the Gaza Strip on the 2d day of OPE, killing 39 Palestinians. Fatal strikes take place in al-Maghazi r.c., Bayt Hanun, Gaza City, Nussayrat r.c. and Bayt Lahiya. Among the dead is an Islamic Jihad commander, killed in a strike on his home in Bayt Hanun along with 5 civilians. Palestinians fire 82 rockets and mortar shells into Israel, with 48 rockets striking Israel and 21 intercepted by Iron Dome batteries. There are no injuries directly caused by projectile fire, but there is some damage to property. Rockets land in and around Dimona, Tel Aviv, Haifa, and Jerusalem. M-75 rockets are fired at Tel Aviv, as well as Nevatim military airport, 44 mi. away from Gaza City. Al-Qassam Brigades, al-Quds Brigades, and Ali Abu Mustafa Brigades (PFLP) all claim responsibility for rocket and mortar fire. Al-Qassam Brigades fighters attempt an attack via the sea, emerging close to Kibbutz Zikim for the 2d day in a row. (AFP, AP, HA, JP, MNA, YA, WAFA 7/9; PCHR 7/10)

Israeli PM Netanyahu says that “we have decided to further intensify the attacks on Hamas and the terror organizations in Gaza” and that “Hamas will pay a heavy price for the firing of rockets at Israeli civilians.” Hamas leader Khalid Mish‘al, in a press conference in Doha, Qatar, says that calm can be achieved through “an immediate halt to the aggression and bombings.” He also reiterates that he does not know who carried out the killing of the 3 Israeli settler teenagers in the West Bank. Meanwhile, PA Pres. Abbas accuses Israel of a “genocide” in Gaza and “a war against the Palestinian people as a whole.” He also describes diplomatic efforts at avoiding further hostilities, saying that Palestinian officials are talking to Egypt’s Pres. al-Sisi and UN Secy.-Gen. Ban. Egyptian foreign ministry spokesperson Badr Abdelatty says that “there is no mediation, in the common sense of the word,” but that Cairo is making “diplomatic efforts” aimed “at immediately stopping Israeli aggression and ending all mutual violence.” (AFP, AP, HA, JP, MNA, YA, WAFA 7/9)

The IDF launches OPE, a major assault on the Gaza Strip. Israeli air strikes hit 150 targets across Gaza, killing 23 Palestinians and wounding more than 100. One attack in Khan Yunis kills 8 mbrs. of the same family when their home is bombed. Hamas fighters infiltrate Israel by sea nr. Kibbutz Zikim and are all killed, according to the IDF. Al-Qassam Brigades says the operation goes as planned. Palestiniansfire approximately 130 rockets into Israel, with Iron Dome batteries intercepting at least 23 of them. Some rockets reach c. Israel, though most fall in the s. Warning sirens are heard in Tel Aviv, where an Iron Dome battery intercepts 3 rockets. The rockets cause damage to 2 houses, and lightly injure 2 people. In the West Bank, IDF troops shoot and injure 3 Palestinians during clashes nr. Qalandia checkpoint, and also shoot and injure 2 Palestinians in clashes in n. Bethlehem. The IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in Nablus, 2 nearby villages, and Balata r.c. at night. In East Jerusalem, Israeli security forces detain 31 Palestinians in relation to the recent protests. (AFP, HA, JP, MNA, REU, YA 7/8; PCHR 7/10)

The Israeli govt. authorizes a call-up of some 40,000 reserve troops, in preparation for a possible ground invasion. Israeli DM Ya’alon says it is likely to be a protracted campaign that will “exact a very heavy price from Hamas.” Al-Qassam Brigades spokesperson Abu Ubayda says that Israel must cease its offensive and commit to the 2012 cease-fire agreement. PA Pres. Abbas, meanwhile, demands that Israel immediately halt its offensive and asks the international community to intervene to halt the escalation. (AFP, AP, HA, JP, MNA, PCHR, REU, YA 7/8)

In the Gaza Strip, Palestinians fire 11 projectiles into s. Israel, causing no damage and lightly injuring 1 soldier with mortar shell shrapnel. Iron Dome batteries intercept 4 of the rockets. In the West Bank, IDF troops use rubber-coated metal bullets against Palestinian protesters nr. Qalandia, injuring 1. Meanwhile, IDF troops injure 6 Palestinians with tear gas canisters and rubber-coated metal bullets at the entrance of al-‘Arub r.c. nr. Hebron. The IDF patrols in 1 village nr. Ramallah in the morning, and in 2 villages nr. Jericho and 1 village each nr. Ramallah and Salfit at night. Jewish settlers assault a Palestinian in Hebron, causing moderate injuries, while separately, settlers set fire to tires and agricultural land at a road junction nr. Jenin. In Israel, Palestinian citizens demonstrate in the c. and n. of the country as protests previously concentrated in East Jerusalem spread. Clashes with Israeli police break out in Qalansuwa, Taibe, and Jaljulia, as well as Nazareth, where hundreds block roads and throw stones at police officers. Dozens of demonstrators are arrested. (AFP, HA, JP, MNA, ToI, WAFA 7/5; PCHR 7/10)

IDF Chief of Staff Gantz says that Hamas bears responsibility for ongoing rocket fire from Gaza and that the army will “know how to respond with much force if quiet isn’t returned to the area.” Meanwhile, the PRC in Gaza rejects any cease-fire that does not include an end to the siege of Gaza and “bring back life” to the West Bank and Jerusalem.” (JP, MNA 7/5)

In East Jerusalem at night, Israeli settlers kidnap 16-year-old Mohammed Abu Khdeir from Shu‘fat, burn him alive, and leave his body in the Jerusalem Forest. PA Pres. Abbas states that Israel “bears full responsibility for this incident” and “must bring those responsible to justice.” Israeli PM Netanyahu urges police “to swiftly investigate who was behind the loathsome murder” and calls on all sides “not to take the law into their own hands.” In a statement, Secy. of State Kerry condemns the killing as a “sickening” act of “vengeance,” adding that the U.S. looks “to both the govt. of Israel and the PA to take all necessary steps to prevent acts of violence and bring their perpetrators to justice.” UN Middle East envoy Robert Serry also condemns the killing. During the day, there are protests and clashes in Jerusalem, especially in Shu‘fat, and 170 Palestinians are wounded. Meanwhile, Jewish settlers attack Palestinian-owned vehicles in Jaba‘, causing damage to dozens. In the Gaza Strip, Palestinians fire 9 mortars into s. Israel, causing no damage or injuries. The IDF attacks 15 targets across Gaza, injuring 11, including at least 3 civilians. Targets include a number of al-Qassam Brigades training camps. Palestinians fire 2 rockets at Ashqelon, with 1 intercepted by an Iron Dome battery and 1 falling in an open area. Later, 10 rockets are fired into s. Israel, causing no damage or injuries (1 is shot down). Meanwhile, off the coast nr. al-Sudaniyya IDF naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishermen, causing no damage or injuries. In the West Bank, IDF troops destroy a house nr. Hebron. It belonged to Ziad Awad, who is charged by Israeli authorities with the killing of an Israeli police officer in 4/2014. The IDF says that the demolition is intended to serve as a deterrent. During the demolition, IDF troops clash with residents and wound 6 with live ammunition. The IDF also conducts house searches and arrest raids in Hebron at night. Israeli settlers set fire to a sheep farm nr. Nablus, causing damage, and leaving “price tag” graffiti. (AFP, HA, JP, MNA, REU, YA, WAFA 7/2)

Reps. of Iran and the P5+1 group begin the 6th and final scheduled round of talks ahead of the 7/20 deadline for agreeing to a deal on Iran’s disputed nuclear program. Talks are scheduled to take place between 7/3 and 7/15, but may continue up to the deadline. Both sides say that progress has been made, but major differences remain. (BBC 7/3)