The Palestine Chronology

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers threw stones at Palestinian vehicles traveling south of Nablus, east of Bethlehem, and near Ya‘bad, damaging several cars and causing at least 3 injuries. 1 of the Israeli settlers was killed when Israeli forces chased after them and the car flipped over; 4 other settlers suffered injuries and were released without charges. Israeli settlers subsequently attacked a police compound in East Jerusalem, leading to clashes and 50 arrests. Later, 1 Palestinian bus driver from East Jerusalem was attacked near the settlement where the Israeli settler, who died earlier, was buried; 2 Israeli settlers used pepper spray and stones and threatened him with a gun as they yelled “Death to Arabs.” Israeli settlers also slashed the tires of Palestinian cars near Hebron and blocked roads near Kafr Qaddum. Elsewhere, Israeli settlers assaulted 1 Palestinian man near Nablus, causing him to need treatment at a hospital. Israeli forces shot and injured 5 Palestinians using live ammunition during raids in Nablus. Israeli forces also demolished 2 Palestinian-owned houses, 1 water well, and 1 agricultural structure in al-Samou, displacing 20 Palestinians, and delivered 1 stop-work order for a water well in Dhariyya. 6 Palestinians were arrested during raids in and around Jenin refugee camp, Jenin, Nablus, al-Mughayyir, and Dahaysha refugee camp. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces shot and killed 1 Palestinian minor, who had opened fire on Israeli forces near the Haram al-Sharif compound; he was killed as he was fleeing the scene and 1 Israeli soldier was injured as he fell during the pursuit. Israeli forces also raided 3 Palestinian-owned stores in Bayt Hanina, seizing tobacco products with PA labels. 1 Palestinian family started demolishing their own home in Silwan to avoid an Israeli-imposed demolition fee of 70,000 NIS ($22,000). 3 Palestinians were arrested during raids in Silwan and Issawiyya. Off the coast of Gaza, Israeli naval forces opened fire on Palestinian fishermen within 3 nautical miles west of Bayt Lahiya. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire on agricultural lands on 3 separate occasions east of Bayt Hanun and al-Bureij; no injuries were reported. Israeli forces also made incursions and levelled 48 acres of farmland planted with peas and potatoes belonging to 7 Palestinian families. In Israel, Palestinian citizens of Israel protested Israeli police inaction in addressing violence in their communities. More than 100 Palestinian citizens of Israel have been killed in communal violence and Israeli police are largely inactive in solving the issue. The protesters drove a caravan from Kafa Qara to the Knesset. (WAFA 12/19; HA, HA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 12/21; AJ, WAFA 12/22; HA 12/23; PCHR 12/24)

Special advisor to U.S. president Donald Trump Jared Kushner met with Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu ahead of a joint trip by Israeli and U.S. officials to Morocco on 12/22 as part of the 2 countries’ normalization deal. (HA 12/21)

As part of the normalization deal between Israel and Sudan, President Trump signed a bill giving immunity to the state of Sudan for future U.S. lawsuits by victims of the 1998 U.S. embassy bombings in East Africa. The bill also provides Sudan close to $1 billion in aid and loans. (AJ, AX 12/22)

Canadian foreign minister Karina Gould said Canada would provide the UNRWA with $70 million over the next 3 years. (AJ 12/22)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers threw stones at 2 Palestinian farmers tending their land in Shushahla near Bethlehem. Israeli settlers also attacked Palestinians who were trying to force settlers to leave their land near Susiya. Israeli forces raided a high school east of Qalqilya. Israeli forces also delivered a stop-work order for a water well and seized a drill in al-Khadir. Elsewhere, Israeli forces raided 1 high school in Qalqilya; no arrests were made. 5 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in and around Hebron. In East Jerusalem, 4 Palestinians were arrested, including 3 during house raids in the Old City and Issawiyya; 1 was arrested at the Haram al-Sharif compound. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 11/22; PCHR 11/26)

A member of Gaza’s pandemic task force warned that Gaza was inching toward inability to cope with the COVID-19 pandemic as 79 of 100 ventilators in Gaza are in use. (REU 11/22)

Axios reported that Israeli officials said Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu traveled to the Saudi Arabian city Neom to meet with Saudi crown prince Mohammed bin Salman and U.S. secretary of state Mike Pompeo for a secret meeting. Neither side confirmed the meeting, but a public flight radar showed a private plane flying from Tel Aviv to Neom. It was also reported that the director of the Mossad Yossi Cohen took part in the meeting. Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Netanyahu said at a memorial for David Ben-Gurion that U.S. president-elect Joe Biden should not rejoin the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. (AX, HA, REU 11/22; AJ, AP, AX, BBC, FT, GDN, HA, HA, REU 11/23; HA 11/25)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers, accompanied by Israeli forces, raided al-Twana and injured 1 Palestinian. 8 Palestinians were arrested, including 6 during raids in and around Tulkarm, Yatta, Kafr Qaddum, Jenin, and Qalqilya; 2 were arrested at checkpoints near Nablus and Huwwara. In East Jerusalem, 3 Palestinians were arrested, including 2 during raids in Issawiyya, and 1 at the Haram al-Sharif compound. In Gaza, 1 rocket was launched at Israel, hitting 1 building; no injuries were reported. Israel subsequently shelled a number of buildings in Gaza City, Rafah, and Khan Yunis, causing damage; no injuries were reported. (GDN, WAFA 11/21; AJ, HA, REU, WAFA 11/22; PCHR 11/26)

The mayor of Bethlehem Anton Salman said that the yearly Christmas celebration will be held virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic. (WAFA 11/21)

In Israel, some 2,500 people protested outside of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s official residence demanding his resignation over the government’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, the economy, and his corruption cases. This was the 22d Saturday in a row that Israelis protested Prime Minister Netanyahu. (HA, WAFA 11/21)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in Rafat, injuring 2 with rubber-coated bullets and tear-gas related injuries were reported. 20 Palestinians were arrested during raids in and around Hebron, Tubas, Jenin, and Nablus. In East Jerusalem, Israeli settlers harassed Palestinians praying on the Haram al-Sharif compound. Israeli forces raided Issawiyya, leading to clashes with Palestinians; tear-gas related injuries were reported and 2 were arrested. 1 other Palestinian was arrested. Off the coast of Gaza, Israeli naval forces opened fire on Palestinian fishermen within 3 nautical miles west of al-Sudaniyya; no injuries were reported. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 10/10; PCHR 10/15)

In Israel, Israeli protesters demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu clashed with police in several places throughout Israel. According to Haaretz, tens of thousands protested throughout Israel, including in front of Netanyahu’s official residence for the 16th Saturday in a row. (AJ, HA 10/10; HA, WAFA 10/11)

PA president Mahmoud Abbas met with the president of the World Jewish Congress Ron Lauder in Ramallah. The meeting lasted some 3 hours and Lauder arrived in a Jordanian helicopter. It is unclear what the meeting was about. The World Jewish Congress said that Lauder was in Ramallah “for a private visit at Abbas’ invitation, to discuss a range of issues regarding Palestine and the Middle East.” (HA, WAFA 10/10)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces razed Palestinian-owned land in Khirbat Zanuta and razed land and demolished water pipes in al-Twana. Elsewhere, Israeli forces and Palestinians clashed in al-‘Izzariya after Israeli forces stormed a cemetery; 1 Palestinian-owned house was damaged by a fire ignited by sound bombs. 8 Palestinians were arrested, including 6 during raids in and around Shu‘fat, Hebron, Qalandia, Ramallah, and Jericho, and 2 were arrested at checkpoints in Hebron and near Bethlehem. In East Jerusalem, an Israeli court issued an eviction order for an extended Palestinian family living in an apartment complex in Silwan; the eviction order affects 28 people. The court ruled in favor of the settler organization Ateret Cohanim. 2 Palestinians were arrested, including 2 during late-night raids in Issawiyya and al-Tur; 1 Algerian tourist was arrested at the Haram al-Sharif compound. In Gaza, Israeli forces made incursions to level land east of Khan Yunis. Off the coast of Gaza, Israeli naval forces opened fire on Palestinian fishermen west of Bayt Lahiya within the allocated fishing zone; no injuries were reported. (WAFA, WAFA 9/7; PCN 9/9; PCHR 9/10; HA 9/15)

The UN launched a temporary service via the WHO to facilitate transfers of Gaza medical patients to Israel, East Jerusalem, and the West Bank in lieu of Israel and the PA’s ceased cooperation. (HA 9/8)

The EU warned Serbia and Kosovo that moving their embassies to Jerusalem as announced by U.S. president Donald Trump on 9/4 would undermine their hopes to gain membership in the union. (HA 9/7)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers vandalized several Palestinian-owned vehicles in Huwwara. Israeli forces wounded 2 Palestinians during a house arrest in Jenin refugee camp; the Israeli army said the 2 were injured by explosives used by Israeli forces to open their door, but Palestinian eyewitnesses said the 2 were shot by live ammunition and were in critical condition; after the 2 injuries, clashes between soldiers and Palestinians erupted in the camp. Israeli forces also clashed with Palestinians during a raid near Ramallah; tear-gas related injuries were reported. Elsewhere, Israeli forces opened fire on Palestinian workers trying to enter Israel near the separation wall south of Qalqilya, injuring 3 with rubber-coated bullets. Israeli authorities announced that Israel had seized the ancient Roman ruins of Dayr Samaan near Kafr al-Dik along with land totaling 6 dunams (1.5 acres). 1 Palestinian was arrested at a military checkpoint south of Jenin. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrested 5 Palestinians, including 4 Waqf guards who were later released on condition of not returning to the Haram al-Sharif compound for 7 days, and 1 during a raid in Issawiyya. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire on agricultural lands east of Khan Yunis and east of Rafah; no injuries were reported. (HA, WAFA, WAFA 9/5; WAFA, WAFA 9/6; PCHR 9/10)

For the 11th week in a row, thousands of Israelis gathered in front of prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s official residence to demand his resignation over his corruption cases, Israel’s financial issues, and his government’s COVID-19 response. (AJ 9/5; HA, WAFA 9/6)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers set fire to a tractor and wrote racist graffiti in ‘Urif and slashed tires on several vehicles and wrote racist graffiti on buildings in Yasuf. Israeli settlers also threw stones and paint at an Israeli border police vehicle near the Yitzhar settlement. Israeli settlers also set fire to Palestinian agricultural lands in Asira; subsequently, local Palestinians and Israeli forces clashed in the area, leading to tear-gas related injuries. Israeli forces also razed land east of Tulkarm. Separately, Israeli forces injured 3 Palestinians using rubber-coated bullets as they were seeking to enter Israel via the separation wall near Far‘un. 20 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in and around Ramallah, Hizma, Bethlehem, Salfit, Nablus, Tulkarm, and Jenin. In East Jerusalem, 1 Palestinian family demolished part of their house built to accommodate their disabled son in Sur Bahir. 4 Palestinians were arrested, including 3 during late-night raids in Issawiyya and the Old City, and 1 Waqf guard at the Haram al-Sharif compound. In Gaza, Israel fired missiles at Gaza City, Bayt Hanun, and Dayr al-Balah, causing damage; incendiary balloons were launched from Gaza toward Israel, sparking fires. 1 unexploded Israeli shell was found at an UNRWA school west of Gaza City. Israel announced that it would stop all imports of fuel into Gaza as collective punishment for incendiary balloons landing in Israel. (AJ, REU, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 8/13; HA, HA 8/14; PCHR 8/16; PCHR 8/17; PCHR 8/19)

Russia announced that it would open trade representation offices in Bethlehem, Hebron, and Nablus. (WAFA 8/13)

U.S. president Donald Trump announced that Israel and the UAE had agreed to establish full diplomatic ties and that Israel, as part of the agreement, had decided to suspend annexation of parts of the West Bank. In a joint statement from the 3 parties, it said that “Israel will suspend declaring sovereignty over areas outlined in the President’s Vision for Peace and focus its efforts now on expanding ties with other countries in the Arab and Muslim world.” Later, Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that annexation is “still on the table” and a promise he is committed to. Subsequently, President Trump said, “Israel agreed not to annex parts of the West Bank. It is more than taking it off the table—they agreed not to do it. This is a very smart concession by Israel. It is off the table now.” U.S. ambassador to Israel David Friedman later said that annexation is “off the table now but it’s not off the table permanently. You can’t have peace and annexation at the same time.” PA president Mahmoud Abbas called the deal a “betrayal of Jerusalem, al-Aqsa Mosque and the Palestinian cause.” The PA also recalled its ambassador to the UAE. Hamas spokesperson Fawzi Barhoum said of the deal: “[t]his announcement is a reward for the Israeli occupation’s crimes . . . The normalization is a stabbing in the back of our people.” U.S. officials also said that Bahrain and Oman are likely to soon normalize relations with Israel. (HA, HA, HA, HA, REU, REU, REU, REU, WAFA, WAFA 8/13; AJ, AJ, REU, REU, REU 8/14; HA 8/15; REU 8/16; AJ 8/17)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in Kafr Qaddum, injuring 5. Israeli forces also ordered a stop-work for a school in Kisan and seized 1 bulldozer. 4 Palestinians were arrested at military checkpoints near Bethlehem and Qalqilya. In East Jerusalem, 1 Palestinian was arrested in Issawiyya and 2 Palestinians were handed notices that they were banned from the Haram al-Sharif compound for 4 and 5 months. Off the coast of Gaza, Israeli naval forces opened fire on Palestinian fishermen within 3 nautical miles off the shore west of Bayt Lahiya; no injuries were reported. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire on Palestinian agricultural lands and shepherds east of al-Maghazi and Khuza‘a; no injuries were reported. (WAFA, WAFA 6/6; PCHR 6/11)

The former leader of Islamic Jihad in Palestine, Ramadan Shalah, died after having been in a coma for more than 2 years. PA president Mahmoud Abbas expressed his condolences to the Shalah family and said Palestine had “lost a great national figure.” (AJ, WAFA 6/7)

In Israel, thousands of protesters demonstrated against the Israeli government’s plans to annex parts of the West Bank at Rabin Square in Tel Aviv. During the protest, a video message from U.S. democratic senator Bernie Sanders (D-VT) urged protesters to stand up against authoritarian leaders and annexation and called for an end of the occupation of the West Bank. According to Sanders’s foreign policy advisor, Matt Duss, Sanders made the address following a request by Israeli-Palestinian MKs Ayman Odeh and Aida Touma-Sliman. (HA, REU, TOI 6/6; AJ, HA, HA, HA 6/7)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers with Israeli force protection razed 47 dunams (11.6 acres) of Palestinian-owned land between Dayr Dibwan and Rammun. Israeli forces prevented Palestinian worshippers from accessing al-Ibrahimi Mosque. Israeli forces also demolished 1 agricultural shed in Aqraba and delivered demolition notifications for 10 water wells in al-Zawiya. 2 Palestinians were arrested at checkpoints near Qalqilya and Nablus. In East Jerusalem, authorities banned 1 Palestinian Waqf guard from entering the Haram al-Sharif compound for 6 months. 4 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in Issawiyya. In Gaza, 1 Palestinian minor was killed after picking up an unexploded ordinance near his home in Bayt Lahiya. Israeli forces opened fire on agricultural lands east of Dayr al-Balah east of Khuza‘a and north of Bayt Lahiya; no injuries were reported (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 5/26; PCHR, PCHR 5/28)

The ICC requested from the PA clarification about which agreements with Israel it had ended as this could affect the ICC probe into war crimes committed by Israel and Hamas in the occupied Palestinian territories. (HA 5/27)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers set up tents and caravans at a settlement outpost in the Jordan Valley. Israeli forces shot and killed 1 Palestinian at the Ni‘lin junction; 1 other man traveling with the deceased fled the scene. Israeli authorities alleged that the men had thrown stones at Israeli settler vehicles. Israeli forces and Palestinians clashed after Israeli forces raided Burin; tear-gas related injuries were reported. PA prime minister Mohammed Shtayyeh announced new measures to curb the spread of the COVID-19 virus, including banning movement between governorates; banning all unnecessary movement outside of homes; and forbidding workers in Israeli settlements from going to work. The PA also announced that it will release some of its prisoners as a measure to curb the spread of COVID-19. 6 Palestinians were arrested, including 2 at a checkpoint near Abud and 4 during raids in al-Fawar refugee camp and al-Zawiya. In East Jerusalem, the Islamic Waqf announced that it is closing the Haram al-Sharif compound for Muslim worshippers and visitors, according to the Waqf, Israel had also promised not to allow Jewish worshippers into the compound. Israeli forces and Palestinians clashed during a raid in Issawiyya; tear-gas related injuries were reported and 2 Palestinian minors were arrested. Off the coast of Gaza, Israeli naval forces opened fire on Palestinian fishermen 2-3 nautical miles west of Jabalia; no injuries were reported. (HA, WAFA, WAFA 3/22; HA, PCHR, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 3/23; PCHR 3/27)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces raided a Palestinian-owned house in Kaubar and took measures to punitively demolish it; 2 of the house’s occupants are detained by Israel. Israeli forces also arrested 11 Palestinians, including 4 during late-night raids in and around Tulkarm, Jenin, and Ramallah; 1 on a street near Nablus; and 7 during daytime raids in and around Ramallah, Nablus, ‘Ayn al-Hilwa, and Hebron. During a daytime raid in Nablus, Israeli forces confiscated a tractor, and separately during a different raid in Nablus, Israeli forces seized carpentry equipment. 1 Palestinian was shot by Israeli forces after he allegedly attempted to carry out a stabbing by the Gush Etzion junction. Israeli forces also seized and impounded a PA health ministry vehicle providing medical services to 1,500 Palestinians in rural areas south of Hebron. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces fired tear gas and arrested 3 Palestinians at Bab al-Rahma in the Haram al-Sharif compound. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire east of Khan Yunis; no injuries were reported. (HA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 1/2; WAFA 1/3; HA 1/7; PCHR 1/9)

9 Palestinians from Issawiyya in East Jerusalem were placed under nighttime curfew between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m. 6 of the men were told that they were facing a nighttime curfew on 12/29, but the curfew did not take effect until 1/2. The Israeli military cited a 1945 Mandate-era regulation to justify placing the 9 under nighttime curfew. (HA 1/2)

The U.S. assassinated Iranian major general in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and commander of the IRGC’s special forces Quds Force Qasem Soleimani and the deputy chairman of the Iraqi government-sanctioned militia Popular Mobilisation Forces, Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis, along with several other Iranian and Iraqi officials at Baghdad International airport. The assassinations were carried out by an American MQ-9 drone that fired missiles at the officials’ convoy as it was leaving the airport. The Pentagon released a statement saying that the strike was directed on behest of U.S. president Donald Trump and was aimed at “deterring future Iranian attack plans.” Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said in a statement that Iran would have 3 days of mourning followed by a retaliation. The speaker of the Iraqi parliament Mohammed al-Halbousi condemned the assassination, calling it “a flagrant breach of sovereignty and violation of international agreements.” (DOD, NYT, REU 1/2; AJ, AJ, AP, CNN, HA, WP 1/3; HA 1/4)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces seized a forklift during a raid in ‘Ayn al-Bayda in the Jordan Valley. In Bayt Umar, Israeli forces and Palestinians clashed after Israeli forces raided the town, leading to tear-gas related injuries. Separately, 2 Palestinians were arrested during a late-night raid in Bayt Umar. In East Jerusalem, 7 Palestinians were arrested, including 1 in Bab al-Rahma at the Haram al-Sharif compound; 1 in his car east of the Old City; and 5 during a raids in Issawiyya and Ras al-Amud. Approximately 80 Israeli settlers toured the Haram al-Sharif compound. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire on Palestinian agricultural lands east of al-Bureij; no injuries were reported. Off the coast of Gaza, Israeli naval forces opened fire at a Palestinian fishing boat, causing damage to several of the boat’s searchlights; no injuries were reported. (WAFA, WAFA 12/22; PCHR 12/26)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers vandalized 25 vehicles and wrote racist graffiti on Palestinian-owned buildings, including a mosque, in Qarawat Bani Hassan. Israeli forces ordered Palestinians southeast of Tubas to evacuate 28 dunams of land, uproot olive trees, and demolish a structure. Israeli forces also violently dispersed a protest in Bethlehem, leading to 30 Palestinians suffering tear-gas related injuries. 8 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in and around Ramallah, Bethlehem, and Hebron. In East Jerusalem, 1 Palestinian was arrested in Issawiyya; he was badly beaten by Israeli police. Some 200 Israeli settlers toured the Haram al-Sharif compound. In Gaza, 9 Palestinians were killed in Israeli airstrikes, including a family of 8 in Dayr al-Balah with 5 children; 12 others were wounded. This brings the comprehensive death toll of the Israeli attack on Gaza starting on 11/12 to 33, with at least 111 Palestinians reported injured. Israel later admitted that killing the family in Dayr al-Balah was a mistake and that they believed the house was empty. Despite the ceasefire early in the morning, bombings continued throughout the day. (AJ 11/13; AJ, HA, PCHR, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 11/14; HA, HA 11/15; HA 11/17; PCHR 11/21)

The Faroe Islands’ foreign minister Jenis av Rana said that the country wants to open a diplomatic representation to Israel in Jerusalem against the wishes of the Danish government. Earlier in the year, the Danish prime minister Mette Frederiksen said that Greenland and the Faroe Islands would have more independence in foreign policy during her government. (Politiken 11/14)

In the West Bank, al-Ibrahimi Mosque was closed to Muslim worshipers due to Israeli restrictions during the Jewish Sukkot holidays. Israeli settlers with military escort toured Solomon’s Pool south of Bethlehem, closing the area for Palestinians. Elsewhere, near Nablus, Israeli settlers and military escort toured Joseph’s Tomb, leading to confrontations with Palestinians; 51 Palestinians were injured including 3 by live ammunition, 14 by rubber-coated bullets and others suffered tear-gas related injuries. 1 Palestinian was shot after allegedly ramming his car into an undercover Israeli officer’s car in al-Am‘ari refugee camp. Israeli forces violently dispersed a protest in Turmus ‘Ayya, injuring 2 with rubber-coated bullets and others with tear gas. Israeli forces shot and injured 2 Palestinians trying to enter Israel for work near Jenin. 9 Palestinians were arrested, including 8 during raids in al-Am‘ari refugee camp, Jaba, ‘Azun, Anabta, and Bayt Awa; the Palestinian accused of ramming his car into the undercover Israeli officer’s car was also arrested. In East Jerusalem, hundreds of Israeli settlers attacked Palestinians and Palestinian-owned property in Issawiyya; Israeli forces arrested 7 of the perpetrators. Some 400 Israeli settlers also toured the Haram al-Sharif compound. Off the coast of Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire and used water hoses on Palestinian fishermen 3 nautical miles northwest of Gaza City, causing damage but no injuries were reported. (WAFA 10/15; HA, HA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 10/17; PCHR 10/24)

The PA blocked access to some 50 websites to crack down on opposition voices and critique of PA president Mahmoud Abbas. (HA 10/22; MDW 10/23)

In Lebanon, thousands of protesters demonstrated against the Lebanese government’s plans to raise a new tax for WhatsApp calls and for the country’s economic crisis. (AJ, AJ 10/18)

The U.S. and Turkey agreed to a 5-day ceasefire in northern Syria to allow Kurdish fighters to leave the area. (HA 10/17)

In the West Bank, al-Ibrahimi Mosque was closed by Israeli authorities for Palestinians from midnight to 10 p.m. 5 Palestinians were arrested, including 3 during late-night raids in and around Bethlehem; 1 was arrested at a flying checkpoint near Salfit; and 1 near al-Ibrahimi Mosque for allegedly carrying a knife. In East Jerusalem, 4 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in Issawiyya. Some 400 Israeli settlers, including Israeli minister of agriculture Uri Ariel, toured the Haram al-Sharif compound; Muslim worshippers were forced to leave al-Aqsa Mosque. Off the coast of Gaza, Israeli naval forces opened fire on Palestinian fishermen; no injuries were reported. (HA, WAFA 9/30; WAFA 10/1; PCHR 10/3)

The Palestinian man who was hospitalized after allegedly being severely beaten during interrogation by the Shin Bet on 9/29 was reported to have suffered broken ribs and kidney failure after the interrogation. The Israeli ministry of justice said it had launched an investigation into whether the Shin Bet interrogators had used “excessive force.” (HA, WAFA 9/29; AJ, HA, WAFA 9/30)

Israeli authorities imposed a closure of all entries in and out of the West Bank and Gaza for Jewish New Year celebrations. The closure will last through 10/1. (WAFA 9/29)

The German city Aachen withdrew a $10,900 prize given to the artist Walid Raad because of Raad’s support for the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions movement. Aachen’s mayor said in a statement, “According to research, we have to assume that the designated prizewinner is a supporter of the BDS movement and has been involved in various measures for the cultural boycott of Israel.” (ARTnews 10/1)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers razed land and set up a caravan on Palestinian-owned land near Bayt Jala. Israeli forces demolished a mosque, a water well, and a house under construction south of Hebron. Israeli forces also handed a stop-work order and confiscated 5 tents in Nahalin. 10 Palestinians were arrested, including 9 during late-night raids in and around Hebron, Bethlehem, and Ramallah, and 1 at a flying checkpoint in near Hebron. In East Jerusalem, Israeli state prosecution officials, including the state prosecutor, toured Haram al-Sharif with military escort; it was reported that the tour was done in coordination with the Islamic Waqf officials. Israeli forces arrested 10 Palestinians in Issawiyya and the Old City. In Israel, Israeli forces demolished the Bedouin village al-Araqib for the 157th time since 2010. Off the coast of Gaza, Israeli naval forces opened fire on Palestinian fishermen; no injures or arrests were reported. (HA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 9/2; WAFA, WAFA 9/3; PCHR 9/5)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces violently dispersed a Palestinian demonstration in support of Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails, causing tear gas inhalation injuries and 1 arrest. 10 other Palestinians were arrested during raids in and around Jenin, Tulkarm, Ramallah, and Hebron. Israeli forces also seized fruit and vegetable stands near a checkpoint south of Dhariyya. 1 Palestinian girl was injured when an Israeli settler car hit her by Jab’a southwest of Bethlehem. In East Jerusalem, 8 Palestinians were arrested, 4 at the Haram al-Sharif compound and 4 during late-night raids in Issawiyya. Off the coast of Gaza, Israeli naval forces opened fire on multiple occasions on Palestinian fishermen between 2-3 nautical miles offshore. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 8/22; PCHR 8/29)

Israel and the PA agreed that the PA can collect fuel taxes directly rather than receiving the taxes from Israel. The agreement is likely a work-around to alleviate the PA economy, while the PA still refuses to accept the Israeli-collected taxes since Israel is withholding part of the taxes that Israel perceives will be paid to Palestinian prisoners and their families. The PA also announced that it would start paying back money it owes to its civil servants who have only received 60% of their salaries since February. The PA pledged to pay its civil servants 110% of their salaries for August. (AJ, HA 8/22)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces sealed off ‘Azun east of Qalqilya. Israeli forces also demolished and confiscated a barrack and confiscated a welding machine and other tools in Dura near Hebron. Israeli forces arrested 21 Palestinians during late-night raids in and around Hebron, Nablus, Ramallah, and Bethlehem. Israeli settlers with military escort performed religious rituals and prayers at Joseph’s Tomb near Nablus, leading to confrontations with local residents suffering tear gas inhalation. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces handed demolition orders for several structures to Palestinians in Issawiyya. Israeli forces also arrested 2 Palestinians, 1 during a late-night raid in the Old City and 1 during a raid at Haram al-Sharif. (WAFA, WAFA 8/19; WAFA 8/20; PCHR 8/22)

An Israeli official said that Israel had been in contact with countries in the Middle East to facilitate Palestinians in Gaza emigrating. The official also said that Israel would pay for the flights of Palestinians wanting to leave Gaza; however according to the official, no country had been willing to allow Palestinians from Gaza to immigrate to their country via the Israeli proposal. (HA 8/20)

At a press conference with Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Ukraine’s newly inaugurated president Volodymyr Zelensky announced that his administration would open an investment center in Jerusalem. According to Haaretz, Israeli had hoped that Ukraine would have moved its embassy to Jerusalem. (HA 8/19)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces seized 3 barracks and a water pump generator in Za’atra near Bethlehem. Israeli forces also handed demolition notices to several families in Qalandia. 2 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in Jenin. In East Jerusalem, a Palestinian man was killed by Israeli policemen in Issawiyya. The policemen said after the incident that they shot the man because he was lighting firecrackers in their vicinity. Other Palestinians were injured by rubber-coated bullets during the incident. Earlier in the day, Palestinians and Israeli activists were protesting the Israeli raids that have occurred in Issawiyya in the past 3 weeks. At least 5 Palestinians were arrested in East Jerusalem, including 4 in Wadi al-Juz. In Israel, Israeli officials reported 17 fires allegedly ignited by incendiary balloons launched from Gaza. (HA, HA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 6/27; WAFA 6/28)

PA president Mahmoud Abbas met with Chilean president Sebastián Pinera who was in Palestine on an official visit. Israeli forces also arrested PA Jerusalem affairs minister Fadi al-Hadami, who had accompanied President Pinera to the Haram al-Sharif compound on 6/26. (WAFA 6/27; HA 6/30)

In the West Bank, 8 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in and around Ramallah, Tulkarm, Hebron, and Jericho. During a raid in Hebron, surveillance camera recordings were confiscated and solar panels were damaged. East of Ramallah, Israeli forces uprooted 120 olive trees. In ‘Urif, Israeli settlers attacked a Palestinian high school by throwing stones at the building, causing moderate damage. In East Jerusalem, 3 Palestinians were arrested; 2 during late-night raids in Issawiyya and 1 near the Haram al-Sharif compound. In Gaza, Israeli shelling continued for the 3d day in a row, killing 19 Palestinians and wounding 29. Several buildings in Gaza were completely destroyed and others were damaged. 3 Israelis were killed by rockets from Gaza and 4 people were wounded in Israel, including a Thai national. This makes the comprehensive death toll from the Israeli attack on Gaza on 4/5-5/5 30 Palestinians total. By the end of 5/5 (U.S. eastern time), it was reported that a cease-fire agreement had been reached. (AJ, AJ, AJ, HA, HA, MNA, MNA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 5/5; MNA, WAFA, WAFA 5/6; PCHR 5/9)

Israel indicated that it had resumed its policy of executions, what Israeli authorities refer to as target killings. Israel killed a Palestinian man in Gaza alleged to facilitating transfers of funds from Iran to Hamas during its attack on Gaza. Chief of the Israeli forces southern command Hertzi Halevy said that the Israeli executions of Palestinians alleged to be involved in terror activity “is expected to continue.” (HA 5/5)

U.S. president Donald Trump tweeted, “Once again, Israel faces a barrage of deadly rocket attacks by terrorist groups Hamas and Islamic Jihad. We support Israel 100% in its defense of its citizens . . . To the Gazan people—these terrorist acts against Israel will bring you nothing but more misery. END the violence and work towards peace—it can happen!” Member of the PLO executive committee Hanan Ashrawi called Israel’s attack on Gaza “criminal and morally reprehensible.” (Twitter, WAFA 5/5)

Unidentified Palestinians launch a number of projectiles from Gaza into southern Israel late at night. Israel’s Iron Dome missile defense system intercepts at least 6 and the rest land open areas, causing no damage or injuries. Afterwards the Israeli Air Force conducts air strikes on approximately 100 Hamas sites across Gaza; at least 4 Palestinians are injured and extensive damage is wrought. Earlier in the day along Gaza’s border, IDF troops arrest 5 Palestinians attempting to cross into Israel near Rafah and a 6th who attempts to cross near Khan Yunis armed with a knife. Meanwhile, Hamas security forces violently disperse Palestinians gathering in Gaza City to demonstrate against the high cost of living and the restrictions on imports to Gaza; several protesters are injured. In the West Bank, IDF troops arrest 2 Palestinians during late-night raids near Qalqilya; and patrol near Hebron, Tulkarm, and Salfit. In East Jerusalem, approximately 150 right-wing Jewish activists tour Haram al-Sharif in the morning. Israeli forces arrests 1 Palestinian during a late-night raid in Issawiyya. (MNA, MNA, TOI, TOI, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 3/14; HA, MNA, MNA, MNA, TOI, WAFA, YA, YA 3/15)

After the rocket fire from Gaza late at night, the Hamas-run Ministry of Health in Gaza condemns the attack. “We are following up on the firing of rockets from Gaza against the national consensus and the ministry will take measures against the violators,” a ministry statement reads. Hamas’s military wing, for its part, denies responsibility for the rocket attack, claiming that the projectiles were fired when senior Hamas officials were meeting with a delegation from Egypt. (TOI 3/14)

Hundreds of Palestinians gather along Gaza’s border to set tires of fire, throw stones, and otherwise continue the Great March of Return late at night. IDF troops violently disperse them near Khan Yunis; 3 Palestinians are injured. After armed Palestinians open fire on an IDF post from the other side of the border fence late at night, an Israeli tank shells a Hamas post near Jabaliya refugee camp, causing damage. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Bayt Lahiya, causing no damage or injuries. In the West Bank, Israeli forces carry out the punitive demolition of the Ramallah-area home of a Palestinian accused of killing 2 Israeli soldiers on 12/13/18. The demolition sparks clashes between the Israeli troops and Palestinian residents of the area; no serious injuries are reported. Israeli forces also demolish a Palestinian home under construction near Nablus and 2 makeshift Palestinian housing structures near Hebron. Meanwhile, IDF troops patrol near Hebron, Qalqilya, and Ramallah. In East Jerusalem, Israeli police enter the al-Rahma Gate prayer area at Haram al-Sharif, provoking tensions at the sanctuary. Later, they arrest 7 Palestinians in the Old City on their way to the sanctuary and 6 more Palestinians during late-night raids in the Old City and Issawiyya. In southern Israel, Israeli forces demolish the Palestinian bedouin village al-Araqib for the 141st time since 2010. (HA, MNA, MNA, MNA, TOI, WAFA, WAFA, YA 3/7; MNA 3/8; PCHR 3/14)

A Palestinian minor succumbs to injuries sustained when IDF troops violently dispersed Palestinian demonstrations along Gaza’s border fence on 3/6. This brings the death toll stemming from the Great March of Return to 206. (AP, HA, JP, MNA, WAFA 3/7)

Afghanistan contributes $1 million to UNRWA to support Palestinian refugees. A senior UNRWA official calls the contribution an “immense gesture of dignity.” (MNA, WAFA 3/7)

Hundreds of Palestinians gather along Gaza’s border near Bayt Hanun to set tires on fire and otherwise continue the Great March of Return for a 3d day in a row. IDF troops violently disperse them, injuring 3 protesters. After some protesters reportedly hurl an explosive device over the border fence, Israeli forces shell a Hamas outpost near Bayt Hanun, causing damage. Separately, IDF troops arrest 2 Palestinians allegedly attempting to cross into Israel near Gaza City. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Rafah, causing no damage or injuries. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces demolish a Palestinian-owned carwash in Bayt Hanina and assault and detain a Palestinian outside the Old City. They also deliver an order to the chairman of the Islamic Waqf council, banning him from Haram al-Sharif for 40 days, and arrest 10 Palestinians during raids in Issawiyya, Silwan, and Bayt ‘Anan. In the West Bank, IDF troops shoot and kill 2 Palestinians and injure a 3d after their vehicle collides with an IDF vehicle outside Ramallah, injuring 2 Israeli soldiers. The IDF claims that it was a purposeful ramming attack, while Palestinian eyewitnesses say the collision was an accident. Separately, the Israeli authorities temporarily close the checkpoint at the southern entrance to Hebron’s al-Ibrahimi Mosque, blocking of the area to make room for Israeli settlers holding demonstration. IDF troops shoot and injure a Palestinian amid clashes sparked by a patrol in Nablus; arrest 7 Palestinians during late-night raids near Ramallah, Salfit, and Hebron; and patrol near Hebron and Qalqilya. Israeli settlers chase Palestinian shepherds off their lands near Jericho. Israeli forces demolish a Palestinian carwash, a merchant’s cart, and 2 other steel structures near Salfit. (HA, JP, MNA, MNA, MNA, TOI, TOI, WAFA, WAFA 3/3; HA, MNA, MNA, WAFA 3/4; PCHR 3/7)

Hundreds of Palestinians gather along Gaza’s border fence near Jabaliya refugee camp to set tires on fire and otherwise continue the Great March of Return. IDF troops violently disperse them in the evening, injuring 1. After an incendiary balloon flown from Gaza sparks a small fire and damages a home in southern Israel, the Israeli Air Force conducts air strikes on 2 Hamas sites in central and southern Gaza late at night, causing major damage. In East Jerusalem, MK Yehuda Glick (Likud) leads a group of right-wing Jewish activists on a tour of Haram al-Sharif. Israeli forces arrest 22 Palestinians during raids in Issawiyya. In the West Bank, Israeli forces uproot 50 olive trees from a Palestinian grove near Hebron. IDF troops arrest 5 Palestinians during late-night raids in and around Qalqilya and Nablus; and patrol near Qalqilya, Salfit, and Ramallah. (HA, JP, MNA, MNA, MNA, TOI, WAFA, WAFA 2/27; HA, MNA, MNA, PCHR, YA 2/28)

The EU announces an €82 million (approximately $93.3 million) to support UNRWA’s core budget in 2019. (WAFA 2/27)

Led by Agriculture Minister Uri Ariel, dozens of right-wing Jewish activists tour Haram al-Sharif. Elsewhere in East Jerusalem, an Israeli settler sprays anti-Palestinian graffiti on walls outside the Old City. Israeli forces arrest Adnan Ghaith, the PA’s governor of Jerusalem, during a raid in Silwan (Ghaith has been arrested several times in the past few months on allegations related to Palestinian land sales to Israelis in East Jerusalem). The Israeli police say that Ghaith’s arrest today is related to “fraud and forgery.” Israeli forces also arrest 2 Palestinians during late-night raids in Issawiyya. In the West Bank, Israeli forces deliver stop-work orders to Palestinians building a new agricultural road near Hebron. IDF troops arrest 6 Palestinians and confiscate 1 vehicle during raids in and around Ramallah, Jenin, and Hebron; and patrol near Hebron. Along Gaza’s border, Israeli forces conduct a limited incursion to level land near Bayt Hanun and open fire on Palestinian farmland near Dayr al-Balah, causing no damage or injuries. In the evening, hundreds of Palestinians gather along the border fence near Gaza City to continue the Great March of Return. IDF troops violently disperse them, injuring 4 protesters. (HA, MNA, MNA, MNA, WAFA, WAFA 2/26; MNA, MNA, TOI 2/27; PCHR 2/28)

A member of Hamas’s military wing dies in a “resistance tunnel” accident near Khan Yunis, according to the Hamas-run Ministry of Health in Gaza. (MNA 2/27)

A senior Japanese official announces a grant of $83,651 to install a solar panel system at a hospital in Gaza. (WAFA 2/26)

Hundreds of Palestinians gather along Gaza’s border near Rafah to light tires on fire and otherwise continue the Great March of Return. IDF troops violently disperse them, causing no serious injuries. Also along Gaza’s border, IDF troops open fire on Palestinian shepherds working near Gaza City, causing no damage or injuries. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Jabaliya refugee camp and Gaza City, causing no damage or injuries. In the West Bank, IDF troops shoot and injure a Palestinian minor during clashes sparked by an arrest raid in al-‘Arub refugee camp. They also assault and injure a Palestinian journalist in Hebron; arrest 7 Palestinians during late-night raids near Ramallah, Bethlehem, and Qalqilya; and patrol near Hebron and Salfit. Israeli settlers throw stones at Palestinian vehicles outside Huwara village near Nablus. Settlers also assault and injure a Palestinian in central Hebron. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces shoot and injure a Palestinian teacher during a raid in Issawiyya. They also arrest 4 Palestinians accused of organizing at the recent protests at Haram al-Sharif. (MNA, WAFA 2/23; MNA, MNA, MNA 2/24; PCHR 2/28)

Hundreds of Palestinians gather along Gaza’s border fence near Gaza City to continue the Great March of Return in the evening. IDF troops violently disperse them, injuring at least 5. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Gaza City and Bayt Lahiya, causing no damage or injuries. In the West Bank, IDF troops arrest 5 Palestinians during late-night raids near Ramallah, Hebron, Nablus, and Jenin; and patrol near Tulkarm and Qalqilya. In East Jerusalem, Palestinian activists gather at Haram al-Sharif to protest the Israeli police’s sealing of al-Rahma Gate into the sanctuary on 2/17. After several protesters damage the locks in an effort to break through the gate, the Israeli police assault them, arrest 7, and seal all entrances to the sanctuary. Separately, Israeli forces raid a mosque in Issawiyya, assault a number of worshippers inside, and take down a Palestinian flag from the wall. They also arrest 4 Palestinians during late-night raids in Silwan and Issawiyya. (MNA, MNA, TOI, WAFA, WAFA 2/18; MNA, MNA 2/19; PCHR 2/21)

In a statement, PA president Mahmoud Abbas condemns the Israeli decision to seal an entrance to Haram al-Sharif on 2/17. A Jordanian spokesperson also condemns the move “in the strongest possible terms.” Meanwhile, Haaretz reports that Jordan has expanded the Islamic Waqf’s council to 18 seats, from 11, to include several PA and Palestinian religious leaders. The newly expanded council reportedly met for the first time on 2/14.  (HA, WAFA, WAFA 2/18)

Unidentified persons riding in a vehicle open fire on Israeli settlers waiting on the side of a road near the Ofra settlement; 7 of the settlers are injured, including 1 pregnant woman. IDF troops in the area open fire on the vehicle, but the assailants flee the scene without apparent injury. Later, IDF troops set up mobile checkpoints and conduct raids in and around the nearby village Silwad, sparking clashes with stone-throwing Palestinians; there are no serious injuries reported. Elsewhere in the West Bank, IDF troops arrest 10 Palestinians and issue 1 arrest summons during late-night raids near Ramallah, Tulkarm, Bethlehem, and Nablus; confiscate 3 makeshift residential structures outside Hebron; and patrol near Nablus and Hebron. An Israeli settler driver rams an elderly Palestinian outside Ni‘lin, causing major injuries. Israeli settlers throw stones at Palestinian vehicles in Ramin village near Tulkarm, causing light damage to 8 of them. In East Jerusalem, dozens of right-wing Jewish activists tour Haram al-Sharif. Israeli forces arrest 11 Palestinians during late-night raids in Hizma, Issawiyya, Ras al-Amud, and Wadi al-Juz. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Rafah and Jabaliya refugee camp, causing no damage or injuries. Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops open fire on Palestinian shepherds working near Rafah, causing no damage or injuries. (HA, MNA, MNA, WAFA, WAFA, YA 12/9; MNA, WAFA 12/10; PCHR 12/13)

IDF troops violently disperse hundreds of Palestinians gathering along Gaza’s border fence near Dayr al-Balah to continue the Great March of Return; 7 Palestinians are injured (1 succumbs to his injuries later in the day). This brings the death toll stemming from the Great March of Return to 179. Separately, IDF troops stationed along the border fence shoot and injure a Palestinian approaching the border fence near Khan Yunis. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Gaza City, causing no damage or injuries (2 fishermen are arrested). In the West Bank, IDF troops kill a Palestinian during a confrontation sparked by a late-night raid in Tammun village near Tubas. Three other Palestinians are reported injured during the confrontation. Separately, IDF troops conduct raids in Doha village near Bethlehem overnight, sparking clashes with stone-throwing residents; 1 Palestinian is injured. They also arrest 12 Palestinians during late-night raids in and around Bethlehem and Tulkarm; arrest a Palestinian minor in central Hebron when he is found to be in possession of a knife; patrol near Nablus and Hebron. Israeli forces dismantle and seize 2 makeshift structures from a Palestinian school near Tubas. They also deliver demolition notices to the school’s administrators (Palestinians in the area built the 3-room school building and established the 2 makeshift structures on 8/20). In East Jerusalem, approximately 57 right-wing Jewish activists tour Haram al-Sharif. Israeli forces arrest 5 Palestinians during late-night raids in Abu Dis and Issawiyya. (EI, HA, JP, MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, TOI, TOI, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 10/23; HA, HA, MNA, MNA, TOI, YA 10/24; PCHR 10/25)

Israeli defense minister Avigdor Lieberman lifts his hold on the transfers of Qatari-funded fuel into Gaza after a period of relative calm along Gaza’s border fence. “In accordance with [DM] Lieberman’s decision from [10/21] and in accordance with recommendations from security bodies, it has been decided that the supply of ‘Qatari fuel’ to Gaza will be renewed starting tomorrow,” his office announces. (TOI, TOI 10/24)

IDF troops shoot and injure a Palestinian minor outside the Gush Etzion settlement near Ramallah after he allegedly stabs and critically injures 2 Israeli settlers. One of the settlers succumbs to his injuries soon after the confrontation. IDF troops raid the alleged attacker’s home in Yatta village near Hebron late at night, taking measurements and threatening punitive demolition. Elsewhere in the West Bank, IDF troops arrest 7 Palestinians and confiscate some property during raids near Ramallah, Jenin, Hebron, and Nablus; and patrol near Bethlehem, Tulkarm, and Hebron. Israeli settlers chase Palestinian shepherds from a field near Jericho. Settlers also congregate on the main Nablus-Ramallah road in the evening to protest the alleged stabbing attack near Ramallah earlier in the day. Some throw rocks at Palestinian vehicles in the area, causing minor damage. In East Jerusalem, dozens of right-wing Jewish activists tour Haram al-Sharif in the morning. Palestinian minors throw stones at a bus carrying Palestinian prisoners in Qalandia refugee camp, sparking minor clashes with Israeli forces in the area; 2 Palestinian are injured and 2 are arrested. Late at night, Israeli forces arrest 9 Palestinians during raids in Issawiyya. Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops violently disperse hundreds of Palestinians gathering to continue the Great March of Return for a 3d day in a row near Rafah and Khan Yunis; 1 Palestinian is injured. In northern Israel, Israeli forces demolish a Palestinian-owned home in al-Ramla. (HA, JP, MNA, MNA, MNA, PNN, TOI, TOI, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, YA 9/16; JP, MNA, WAFA, YA 9/17; PCHR 9/20)