The Palestine Chronology

An armed Palestinian opens fire on Israeli settlers at the Barkan Industrial Park near the Ariel settlement, killing 2 and seriously injuring a 3d. The assailant evades arrest and flees the scene. IDF troops then set up dozens of mobile checkpoints and conduct raids and searches in the area. Elsewhere in the West Bank, IDF troops arrest 18 Palestinians during raids near Hebron, Tulkarm, Ramallah, Bethlehem, and Nablus; and patrol near Hebron, Tulkarm, Qalqilya, and Salfit. Israeli settlers break the windows of 10 Palestinian vehicles at a showroom near Salfit. In East Jerusalem, more than 100 right-wing Jewish activists tour Haram al-Sharif. Along Gaza’s border, an Israeli aircraft conducts an air strike on a group of Palestinians near Rafah who were allegedly preparing to fly incendiary kites and balloons into southern Israel; there are no reported injuries. Meanwhile, Israeli firefighters put out 5 fires in border communities allegedly sparked by such kite and balloon attacks emanating from Gaza. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Rafah, causing no damage or injuries. (HA, JP, MNA, MNA, MNA, TOI, WAFA, YA 10/7; PCHR 10/11)

Hundreds of Palestinians gather along Gaza’s border to continue the Great March of Return. IDF troops violently disperse them near Gaza City, Bayt Hanun, and Jabaliya refugee camp; 1 Palestinian is killed and at least 32 are injured. This brings the death toll stemming from the Great March of Return to 167. Meanwhile, Israeli firefighters put out 2 fires in open areas in southern Israel that were allegedly sparked by incendiary kites and balloons flown from Gaza. Israeli forces stationed along the border fence arrest a Palestinian allegedly attempting to cross into Israel armed with a knife near Jabaliya refugee camp; conduct a limited incursion late at night to level land near Dayr al-Balah. In the West Bank, Israeli settlers uproot approximately 40 olive trees in a Palestinian grove near Ramallah; set fire to a Palestinian-owned home in central Hebron, causing major damage. An Israeli settler driver allegedly rams a Palestinian at a checkpoint near Ramallah, causing major injuries. Meanwhile, IDF troops arrest 11 Palestinians during raids in and around Ramallah, Bethlehem, Salfit, Nablus, and Qalqilya; and patrol near Jenin and Hebron. An IDF raid in Qalqilya sparks minor clashes with stone-throwing residents; there are no reported injuries. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 2 Palestinians during raids in the Old City. (MNA, MNA, WAFA, WAFA 10/3; MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, PCHR 10/4)

Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops open fire on Palestinian homes near al-Maghazi; 1 elderly Palestinian is shot in the back and killed. Some reports say that the man was killed by fragments of an Israeli tank shell instead. An IDF spokesperson says he is unaware of any soldiers or tanks opening fire in the area around the time of the incident. Separately, Israeli forces conduct a limited incursion to level land near Rafah. In the West Bank, IDF troops violently disperse Palestinians gathering at the Beit El checkpoint near Ramallah to protest Israel’s new Nation-State Law for a 2d day in a row; 2 Palestinians are injured. They also shoot and injure 1 Palestinian during clashes sparked by a raid near Jericho; arrest 7 Palestinians and issue 1 arrest summons during raids near Bethlehem, Hebron, Tulkarm, and Jenin; and patrol near Nablus and Hebron. Israeli forces dismantle a makeshift Palestinian residential structure outside Hebron. Israeli settlers raze more than 200 dunams (approximately 49.4 acres) of Palestinian-owned land near Nablus. Settlers also flood with wastewater parts of Khan al-Ahmar, the Jerusalem-area Bedouin village slated for imminent evacuation and demolition. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 10 Palestinians during raids in Issawiyya and Shu‘fat refugee camp. (HA, MNA, MNA, MNA, WAFA 10/2; MNA, TOI 10/3; PCHR 10/4)

The Israeli authorities deny a U.S. citizen entry into Israel at Ben Gurion Airport late at night, citing alleged “boycott activity.” The woman, Lara Alqasem, arrived in Israel with a student visa to work towards a master’s degree at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. (HA, JP, YA 10/6)

Palestinian citizens of Israel and Palestinians across Gaza, East Jerusalem, and the West Bank observe a general strike in protest of the so-called Nation-State Law, which codified Israel’s status as the nation-state of the Jewish people when it passed in the Knesset on 7/19/18. Israeli forces violently disperse demonstrations against the law on the outskirts of Ramallah, and in Nablus, Qalandia refugee camp, and Qalqilya, as well as 2 neighborhoods in East Jerusalem, (al-‘Izzariya and Abu Dis); 14 Palestinians are injured. Elsewhere in the West Bank, IDF troops patrol in Hebron, sparking clashes with stone-throwing Palestinian minors; there are no reported injuries. They also arrest 3 Palestinians during late-night raids near Hebron and Bethlehem. Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops violently disperse Palestinians gathering near al-Bureij refugee camp, Khan Yunis, and Jabaliya refugee camp throughout the day to protest the Israeli blockade, protest the Nation-State Law, and continue the Great March of Return; at least 44 Palestinians are injured. In the evening, several Palestinian fishing boats sail in a symbolic challenge to Israel’s blockade. They turn back to shore after Israeli naval forces fire warning shots in their direction, causing no damage or injuries. Meanwhile, Israeli firefighters put out 4 fires in southern Israeli border communities reportedly sparked by incendiary kites or balloons flown from Gaza. In East Jerusalem, Israeli settlers assault a number of Palestinians and damage a number of their vehicles in the Old City. Later, Israeli forces violently disperse of Palestinian minors congregating near the Damascus Gate to the Old City; 1 Palestinian is injured and 2 are arrested. They also arrest 2 Palestinians during late-night raids in Abu Dis and Hizma, sparking minor clashes in the latter. (HA, MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, TOI, TOI, WAFA, WAFA 10/1; MNA, MNA, MNA, YA 10/2; PCHR 10/4)

Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops dismantle a number of IEDs reportedly planted near the border fence during the protests on 9/28. They also violently disperse hundreds of Palestinian minors gathering along the border fence to continue the Great March of Return; 10 Palestinians are injured. Separately, Israeli forces shut down a major road in southern Israel after incendiary balloons and kites flown from Gaza spark at least 5 fires in the border area. 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, IDF troops conduct a raid on a warehouse on the outskirts of Ramallah, sparking minor clashes; 1 international journalist and 6 Palestinians are injured and 3 Palestinians are arrested. They also shoot and injure a Palestinian during a raid of his home near Bethlehem; and patrol near Hebron throughout the day. In East Jerusalem, a group of Israelis assault a Palestinian shop-owner in al-Masara, causing minor injuries and sparking minor clashes between Israeli security forces in the area and Palestinian residents of the neighborhood; 3 Palestinians are injured. (HA, MNA, MNA, TOI, TOI, WAFA 9/30; MNA, TOI 10/1; PCHR 10/4)

In the West Bank, IDF troops shoot and injure a Palestinian amid clashes sparked by a raid in Nahalin village near Bethlehem late at night (1 Israeli soldier is lightly injured during the clashes). They also arrest 5 Palestinians during late-night raids near Jenin, Bethlehem, and Hebron; and patrol near Qalqilya and Hebron. Israeli settlers enter ‘Ayn al-Sultan refugee camp near Jericho late at night, sparking clashes between their IDF escort and Palestinian residents of the area; 1 Palestinian is injured. (MNA 9/29; TOI, WAFA 9/30; PCHR 10/4)

A delegation of Hamas officials arrives in Cairo to continue backchannel talks on the stalled Palestinian reconciliation process and a possible long-term cease-fire with Israel. Meanwhile, there are reports in the Palestinian press that Norway is mediating a possible prisoner swap deal between Hamas and Israel. The deal would likely see the return of the remains of the 2 IDF soldiers and Israeli civilians allegedly being held in Gaza and the release of a number of Hamas-affiliated prisoners in Israel. (MNA, YA 9/29; TOI, YA 10/1)

Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops violently disperse hundreds of Palestinian minors gathering near Dayr al-Balah to continue the Great March of Return for a 7th day in a row; 1 Palestinian is seriously injured. Meanwhile, an Israeli aircraft bombs a group of Palestinians who allegedly launched an incendiary balloon into Israel near Gaza City, injuring 1. On the other side of the border fence, Israeli firefighters put out 9 fires in open areas that were reportedly sparked by incendiary balloons. In the West Bank, Israeli forces demolish a Palestinian home under construction in Rantis village near Ramallah; and deliver a stop-work order to a Palestinian home under construction in al-Walaja near Bethlehem. IDF troops injure 1 Palestinian during clashes sparked by a raid in Dahaysha refugee camp near Bethlehem; arrest 2 Palestinians during further raids near Salfit and Tulkarm; and patrol near Bethlehem, Qalqilya, and Salfit. In East Jerusalem, a Palestinian demolishes his own home in Bayt Hanina in order to avoid paying Israeli demolition fees. Israeli forces arrest 4 Palestinians and issue 14 arrest summons during raids in the Old City. (HA, MNA, MNA, MNA, TOI, WAFA, WAFA, YA 9/20; MNA 9/21; PCHR 9/27)

IDF troops assault, critically injure, and arrest a Palestinian during overnight raids in Bayt Rima village near Ramallah. The Palestinian succumbs to his injuries later in the day. Elsewhere in the West Bank, IDF troops injure 1 Palestinian during clashes sparked by raids in Qalandia refugee camp near Ramallah and Artas near Bethlehem. They also patrol near Hebron and Nablus. Thousands of right-wing Jewish activists visit Hebron to pray at al-Ibrahimi Mosque, commemorating Yom Kippur. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces shoot and kill a Palestinian in the Old City after he assaults a right-wing Jewish activist and allegedly attempts to stab an Israeli police officer. A Palestinian eyewitness says that the deceased was not trying to stab anyone and that he was only “defending himself” from the Jewish activist. Errant Israeli fire from the incident damages the windows of a nearby shop and a number of vehicles in the area. Meanwhile, approximately 326 right-wing Jewish activists tour Haram al-Sharif throughout the day to commemorate Yom Kippur. Israeli police assault and injure 7 Palestinians and arrest at least 5 others amid the ensuing confrontations at the sanctuary. Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops violently disperse hundreds of Palestinians gathering near Bayt Hanun to continue the Great March of Return for a 5th day in a row; 2 Palestinians are killed and at least 45 are injured. This brings the death toll stemming from the Great March of Return to 155. (AFP, EI, HA, HA, MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, TOI, TOI, WAFA, WAFA, YA 9/18; EI, MNA, MNA 9/19; PCHR 9/20)

Unidentified sources in Gaza tell the Israeli press that Hamas is working to escalate the weekly Great March of Return protests in order to pressure Israel and Egypt into resuming the backchannel talks on a long-term cease-fire, which have reportedly been suspended for the past few weeks. (YA 9/20)

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)

Along Gaza’s border, unidentified Palestinians fly an incendiary balloon across the border fence into southern Israel, where it lands in the courtyard of a home belonging to Israeli MK Haim Jelin, causing no damage. Separately, IDF troops violently disperse hundreds of Palestinians gathering along the border fence near Gaza City and Jabaliya refugee camp to continue the Great March of Return; 2 Palestinians are injured. They also arrest a Palestinian allegedly attempting to cross into Israel near al-Bureij refugee camp. In the West Bank, Israeli settlers assault a Palestinian farmer near Ramallah, causing minor injuries. IDF troops arrest 9 Palestinians during raids in and around Hebron, Nablus, Qalqilya, and Bethlehem; and patrol near Hebron, Tulkarm, and Salfit. They also violently disperse Palestinians protesting the Israeli occupation in Kafr Qaddum near Qalqilya for a 2d day in a row; 1 Palestinian is injured. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 1 Palestinian during late-night raids in Anata refugee camp (HA, JP, MNA, MNA, MNA, PNN, YA 9/16; PCHR 9/20)

A Palestinian minor succumbs to injuries sustained when IDF troops opened fire on Palestinian protesters along Gaza’s border fence on 8/3. This brings the death toll stemming from the Great March of Return to 153. (HA, MNA, TOI, WAFA 9/16)

Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Jabaliya refugee camp, causing no damage or injuries (3 fishermen are arrested and their boat is confiscated). Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops dismantle an IED apparently placed along the border fence near Rafah by Palestinians in recent days. Late at night, unidentified Palestinians throw a pipe bomb at IDF troops stationed along the border fence, causing no damage or injuries. The Israeli soldiers fire at the perpetrators, injuring 1 Palestinian. In the West Bank, Israeli settlers slash the tires of 6 Palestinian vehicles in Jalud village near Nablus overnight and burn to the ground approximately 200 olive trees in a Palestinian grove near Bethlehem. Israeli forces confiscate 5 temporary residential structures that activists set up outside Khan al-Ahmar, the Jerusalem-area Bedouin village that is slated for evacuation and demolition. IDF troops arrest 1 Palestinian minor for possessing a knife in central Hebron; assault and arrest a Palestinian during a patrol in Artas village near Bethlehem; and patrol near Hebron, Tulkarm, and Qalqilya. (HA, MNA, MNA, TOI, WAFA, WAFA, YA 9/13; MNA, MNA, TOI, YA 9/14; PCHR 9/20)

The European Parliament passes a resolution denouncing the Israeli decision to evacuate and demolish the Jerusalem-area Bedouin village Khan al-Ahmar. The resolution also calls on Israel to provide compensation for the EU-funded infrastructure in the village. (HA, JP, TOI 9/13)

Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops open fire on Palestinian minors congregating near the Erez border crossing and Khan Yunis; 1 Palestinian is injured. In the West Bank, an Israeli settler pepper-sprays a Palestinian minor in central Hebron following a confrontation of unclear origins. IDF troops arrest 10 Palestinians during raids near Hebron, Ramallah, Jenin, and Bethlehem; and patrol in and around Hebron. (MNA 9/12; MNA, MNA, PCHR 9/13; PCHR 9/20)

The Israeli Air Force conducts an air strike near Bayt Hanun targeting a group of Gazans allegedly responsible for flying incendiary kites and balloons into southern Israel earlier in the day; 2 Palestinians are injured. This is the first such strike since the major escalation of violence in 7/2018 and early 8/2018. Later, thousands of Palestinians gather along Gaza’s border to continue the Great March of Return. IDF troops violently disperse them near Rafah, Khan Yunis, Gaza City, Jabaliya refugee camp, and al-Bureij refugee camp; 1 Palestinian is killed and approximately 150 are injured. After reports of protesters throwing small explosives at IDF troops across the border fence, the Israeli Air Force bombs 2 Hamas posts near the border fence, causing damage. Separately, 2 Palestinian minors are injured in Gaza City when they accidentally detonate a piece of unexploded Israeli ordnance. In the West Bank, Palestinian activists prevent Israeli settlers from entering Khan al-Ahmar, a Jerusalem-area Bedouin village slated for evacuation and demolition. IDF troops violently disperse Palestinians, Israelis, and international activists at Friday protests against the Israeli occupation in Kafr Qaddum near Qalqilya, Khirbet Qalqas near Hebron, and 3 villages near Ramallah (Ras Karkar, Bil‘in, and Ni‘lin); 6 Palestinians are injured. They also injure 5 Palestinians during clashes sparked by a late-night raid in Nablus; arrest 2 Palestinians during further raids near Bethlehem; and patrol in and around Tulkarm. (EI, HA, HA, JP, MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, TOI, TOI, WAFA, WAFA, YA, YA, YA 9/7; MNA 9/8; PCHR 9/13)

A Palestinian succumbs to injuries sustained when IDF troops opened fire on Palestinian protesters along Gaza’s border fence on 7/14. This brings the death toll stemming from the Great March of Return to 148. (HA, MNA, WAFA 9/7)

In the West Bank, IDF troops conduct raids in Dahaysha refugee camp near Bethlehem overnight, sparking clashes with residents of the camp; 1 Palestinian is injured. The IDF also patrols near Hebron. Israeli settlers set fire to a pile of Palestinian construction materials outside Jalud village near Nablus, causing extensive damage. In East Jerusalem, dozens of right-wing Jewish activists tour Haram al-Sharif. Israeli forces arrest 1 Palestinian during a raid in Qalandia refugee camp. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Jabaliya refugee camp, causing no damage or injuries. Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops open fire on Palestinian minors approaching the border fence near Gaza City, causing no injuries. In southern Israel, Israeli forces demolish the Bedouin village al-Araqib for the 133d time since 2010. They also demolish a home in the Bedouin village Hura . (MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, WAFA 9/6; PCHR 9/13)

After closing it indefinitely on 9/5, the Israeli authorities partially re-open the Erez border crossing, allowing a small number of humanitarian cases, journalists, and Palestinians from the West Bank into Gaza. Defense Minister Lieberman says the crossing will remain closed until at least 9/13. Separately, the Israeli authorities announce that all crossings in and out of Gaza and the West Bank are to be closed from midnight on 9/8 through midnight on 9/11 around the Jewish holiday Rosh Hashanah. The crossings are also set for closure around Yom Kippur (9/17–18) and Sukkot (9/22–10/1, except the crossings in the West Bank are set to open on 9/25–9/28). (MNA, MNA, TOI, TOI, WAFA 9/6)

U.S. president Donald Trump says that he does not plan to resume any aid for the Palestinians until they begin negotiations with Israel. “The U.S. was paying them tremendous amounts of money,” he says, in a call with U.S.-Jewish leaders. “And I say, ‘You’ll get money, but we’re not paying until you make a deal. If you don’t make a deal, we’re not paying.” Trump has slashed almost all U.S. aid for the Palestinians, including that which is traditionally directed through UNRWA, since 1/2018. (IHY, JP, HA, TOI, TOI, YA 9/7)

Israeli MK Yehuda Glick tours Haram al-Sharif with an escort of heavily armed Israeli security forces. Elsewhere in East Jerusalem, Israeli forces conduct raids in Abu Dis, sparking clashes with dozens of Palestinian students at al-Quds University; there are no reported injuries. They also demolish a Palestinian home in Silwan. In the West Bank, Israeli forces demolish 2 Palestinian homes in Anata refugee camp and a 3d in Bayt Hanina. IDF troops shoot and injure 3 Palestinian journalists amid clashes in Ras Karkar village near Ramallah; arrest 5 Palestinians during late-night raids in and around Bethlehem, Hebron, Tulkarm, and Qalqilya. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Rafah and later near Jabaliya refugee camp, causing no damage or injuries. (MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, WAFA, WAFA 9/5; PCHR 9/13)

A senior officer in Hamas’s military wing, Abdel Rahim Abbas, dies in what is reported to be an accidental explosion in Gaza. (AFP, TOI 9/6)

Paraguay’s Foreign Minister Luis Alberto Castiglioni announces that Paraguay will be returning its embassy in Israel to Tel Aviv, reversing former president Horacio Cartes’ decision to move it to Jerusalem in 5/2018. “Paraguay wants to contribute to an intensification of regional diplomatic efforts to achieve a broad, fair and lasting peace in the Middle East,” he says. In response, the Israeli government announces the closure of the Israeli embassy in Paraguay and a recall of the Israeli ambassador. (WAFA 9/5; HA, MNA, REU, YA 9/6)

The Israeli authorities announce the indefinite closure of the Erez border crossing, following the damage done to the crossing amid protests along the border fence on 9/4. An official statement explains that the closure is to allow for maintenance work. Exceptional humanitarian cases are still allowed to cross. (HA, HA, MNA, MNA, TOI, WAFA, YA 9/5)

Denying a petition from the residents, Israel’s High Court of Justice gives its final authorization for the Israeli government’s plan to evacuate and demolish Khan al-Ahmar, a Bedouin village near Jerusalem. “We have exhausted all legal means at this point and there is nothing more we can do other than be present in the area to protect it and prevent its demolition,” says a PA official who has been working on the case. (EI, HA, JP, MNA, TOI, WAFA, YA 9/5)

The Jerusalem Local Planning and Building Committee advances a plan to build 150 housing units in Bayt Hanina, East Jerusalem. The current plan earmarks 75 of the units for Palestinians, but it is unclear if that earmark will remain as the plan proceeds through the authorization process. (HA 9/6; FMEP 9/7)

Israeli forces shoot and kill a Palestinian at a checkpoint north of Hebron after he allegedly attempts to stab one of them. No Israelis are injured during the incident. Elsewhere in the West Bank, Israeli forces demolish a Palestinian residential structure on the outskirts of Yatta near Hebron. Israeli settlers open fire on a Palestinian home in Burqa village near Nablus, causing damage. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces demolish 4 Palestinian homes in al-Walaja near Bethlehem, sparking clashes with residents who barricaded themselves inside the homes; 10 Palestinians are injured. Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops shoot and injure a Palestinian minor along the border fence near Khan Yunis in unclear circumstances. In northern Israel, Israeli forces demolish a Palestinian home in Manshiyet Zabda village. (HA, HA, JP, MNA, MNA, TOI, TOI, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, YA 9/3; MNA, MNA 9/4)

A group of Israeli farmers files a formal complaint to the International Criminal Court (ICC) at The Hague against Hamas for allegedly facilitating the wave of incendiary kite and balloon attacks that damaged approximately 7,000 acres of Israeli farmlands earlier this year. (JP, TOI 9/3)

Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Gaza City and later near Jabaliya refugee camp, causing no damage or injuries (6 fishermen are arrested). In the West Bank, Israeli settlers throw stones at a Palestinian vehicle driving near Nablus, lightly injuring the 4 Palestinians riding inside. Late at night, settlers slash the tires of a number of Palestinian cars and leave racist graffiti in nearby Beita village. Israeli forces arrest a Palestinian outside the Tekoa settlement after he allegedly attempts to assault an Israeli settler with a metal bar. They also confiscate a Palestinian bulldozer from a construction site near Bethlehem. After reports of Palestinians throwing stones at Israeli settler vehicles near Bethlehem, Israeli forces set up mobile checkpoints and shut down roads in the area for hours. (MNA, MNA, TOI, WAFA 9/2; MNA 9/3)

Along Gaza’s border, Israeli firefighters put out 5 fires allegedly sparked by incendiary kites or balloons flown from Gaza. Separately, IDF troops open fire on Palestinian farmlands along the border fence near Dayr al-Balah, causing no damage or injuries. In the West Bank, IDF troops arrest 6 Palestinians during late-night raids in and around Bethlehem, Qalqilya, Jenin, and Hebron. One raid in Dahaysha refugee camp sparks minor clashes; there are no reported injuries. Israeli settlers throw stones at a Palestinian home near Nablus, causing minor damage; puncture the tires of 15 Palestinian vehicles and leave racist graffiti in Sinjil village near Ramallah. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces uproot a number of trees on Palestinian land in Shaykh Jarrah. They are reportedly clearing the area for the construction of a new settler residence. (MNA 8/28; PCHR 8/30)

The Israeli authorities re-open the Erez border crossing for the first time since 8/19. Israeli defense minister Avigdor Lieberman reportedly cited sufficient calm in Gaza in recent days as the reason for the re-opening. (HA, MNA, TOI, TOI, YA 8/27)

Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Jabaliya refugee camp and Khan Yunis, causing no damage or injuries (2 Palestinians are arrested and their boat is confiscated). Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops open fire on Palestinian farmlands near Gaza City, causing no damage or injury. In the West Bank, IDF troops arrest 10 Palestinians during late-night raids in and around Ramallah, Bethlehem, Nablus, and Hebron; and patrol near Hebron. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 2 Palestinians during raids in Silwan and the Old City. (MNA, WAFA 8/26; HA, MNA, WAFA 8/27; PCHR 8/30)

Along Gaza’s border, Israeli forces conduct a limited incursion to level land near Khan Yunis. In the West Bank, Israeli settlers puncture the tires of a Palestinian vehicle and leave racist graffiti on nearby walls outside Nablus. IDF troops patrol in and around Qalqilya and Tulkarm. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 1 Palestinian during a raid in Issawiyya. (MNA, MNA, WAFA 8/22; PCHR 8/30)

Israel’s Civil Administration approves a plan to confiscate 100 dunams (approximately 24.7 acres) of Palestinian land near Bethlehem to make room for the expansion of settlements in the area. (MNA, MNA 8/22)

Along Gaza’s border, unidentified Palestinians fly incendiary kites and balloons into southern Israel, sparking 2 small fires. In the West Bank, Israeli settlers bulldoze an area of Palestinian farmland near Ramallah, sparking minor clashes between their IDF escort and Palestinians in the area; there are no reported injuries. Settlers also cut down 74 olive trees in a Palestinian grove near Ramallah and throw stones at Palestinian vehicles near Nablus (4 Palestinians are injured). IDF troops arrest 8 Palestinians during raids near Bethlehem, Ramallah, Hebron, and Jenin; and patrol in and around Hebron, Tulkarm, and Salfit. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 5 Palestinians during raids in Shu‘fat refugee camp and the Old City. (HA, MNA, TOI, WAFA 8/19; PCHR 8/30)

            The Israeli authorities close down the Erez border crossing, with an exception for emergency medical cases, in response to the ongoing Great March of Return. A senior Israeli official says that the closure is meant as a warning to Hamas to quell the ongoing demonstrations. (HA, MNA, MNA, TOI, WAFA, WAFA, YA 8/19)

Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on 40 small Palestinian boats sailing from a port near Jabaliya refugee camp in a symbolic effort to break the Israeli blockade; there are no reported injuries. The ships return to shore after shots are fired. In East Jerusalem, the Israeli authorities re-open Haram al-Sharif, having kept the sanctuary closed for 15 hours in the wake of the shooting of a Palestinian minor in the Old City on 8/17. Israeli settlers puncture the tires of 15 Palestinian-owned vehicles and leave racist graffiti on nearby walls in Issawiyya. In the West Bank, Israeli settlers uproot approximately 350 olive trees in a Palestinian grove near Jenin. IDF troops violently disperse Palestinians and international activists protesting the Israeli occupation in Kafr Qaddum near Qalqilya; 1 Norwegian activist is injured. They also arrest 3 Palestinians during a late night raid near Bethlehem and patrol near Tulkarm, Qalqilya, and Jenin. (MNA, MNA, MNA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 5/18; MNA, MNA, MNA 8/19; PCHR 8/30)

An Israeli settler is killed in a car accident involving a Palestinian driver near Nablus. The Palestinian flees the scene, but later turns himself in to the authorities. Israeli settlers retaliate for what they interpret as an attack by throwing rocks and bottles at Palestinian vehicles near Nablus (40 cars are damaged), torching an excavator being used for a Palestinian construction project in nearby Urif village, and attempting to set fire to a Palestinian home in nearby Jalud village. Late at night, settlers destroy 200 olive trees in a Palestinian grove near Nablus. Also in the West Bank, IDF troops arrest 4 Palestinians during raids in Qalqilya and near Bethlehem; and patrol near Qalqilya, Jenin, and Hebron. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Bayt Lahiya, causing no damage or injuries (4 fishermen are detained and 2 boats are confiscated). In southern Israel, Israeli forces demolish the Bedouin village al-Araqib for the 132d time since 2010. (MNA, MNA, TOI, WAFA 8/16; JP, WAFA, WAFA 8/17; PCHR 8/30)

UNRWA Commissioner General Pierre Krähenbühl announces that despite a massive budget shortfall the agency will be able to open its schools in the occupied Palestinian territories, Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria on time on 8/29. “I wish to be clear that UNRWA is by no stretch of the imagination out of the woods,” he adds. “We need a further $217 million to ensure that our schools not only open but can be run until the end of the year.” (JP, MNA, WAFA 8/16)

After a meeting of the Israeli security cabinet, an Egypt- and UN-backed cease-fire between Israel and Hamas goes into effect. It is reportedly based on the principles of the cease-fire deal that halted Operation Protective Edge, Israel’s 2014 assault on Gaza, and it provides for a cessation of all hostilities. The Israeli cabinet reportedly approved the agreement in principle on 8/12 and only met today to review the details one last time. Earlier, Israeli DM Lieberman announced the reopening of the Kerem Shalom border crossing (effectively lifting the last of the restrictions the Israeli authorities imposed on 7/9) and the expansion of the fishing zone off Gaza’s coast to nine nautical miles, up from as few as three at the peak of the Israeli crackdown. “The opening of the Kerem Shalom crossing, after four days of quiet, is intended to indicate to the population in Gaza that maintaining quiet is first and foremost an interest for Gaza’s residents,” he says. (EI, HA, JP, MNA, TOI, WAFA, YA 8/15; AHR, MNA, TOI 8/16)

Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Bayt Lahiya and Dayr al-Balah, causing no damage or injuries. In the West Bank, Israeli settlers assault a Palestinian farmer outside Salfit, preventing him from working his land. They also break into a Palestinian home in central Hebron and violently attack 2 Palestinian minors; there are no reported injuries. IDF troops conduct raids in central Hebron, sparking clashes with stone-throwing Palestinian minors; 1 Palestinian is injured. They arrest 5 Palestinians and issue 1 arrest summons during further raids near Jericho, Ramallah, Bethlehem, and Qalqilya; and patrol in and around Hebron and Qalqilya. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces demolish a Palestinian residential building under construction in Issawiyya. They also detain 9 Palestinian women at Haram al-Sharif for undisclosed reasons (8 are released later in the day and banned from the sanctuary for 15 days); and arrest 4 Palestinians and issue 1 arrest summons during late-night raids in Silwan, Ras al-Amud, Sur Bahir, and the Old City. (MNA, WAFA 8/15; MNA, PCHR 8/16; PCHR 8/30)

The Palestinian Central Council convenes in Ramallah for its 29th regular meeting. The PLO body discusses a variety of issues related to statehood, including the stalled national reconciliation process, and plans to meet again on 8/16. In a speech kicking off the meetings, PA president Abbas says that Hamas is not serious about reconciliation. “Hamas principally does not have intentions to achieve reconciliation,” he says. Abbas also criticizes the Trump administration’s peace efforts and reiterates that he wants to unify the West Bank and Gaza with “one government, one law, and one legitimate force without militias.” (TOI, WAFA 8/15)

The Israel Land Authority (ILA) publishes tenders for the construction of 602 new housing units in the Ramat Shlomo settlement of East Jerusalem. The 603 units are part of a larger development plan that dates back to 2010. The ILA separately reaches a $380 million agreement with the Jerusalem Municipality for a series of development projects across the city, including 20,000 new housing units. The Jerusalem City Council is expected to approve the plan next week. (HA, YA 8/15)

In the West Bank, IDF troops shoot and injure 2 Palestinians during clashes sparked by an IDF raid in Bayt Umar near Hebron. They arrest 20 Palestinians during further raids in and around Nablus, Ramallah, Jericho, Tulkarm, Hebron, Bethlehem, Nablus, and Jenin; and patrol near Tulkarm, Jenin, and Qalqilya. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 1 Palestinian during a patrol just outside the Old City. (MNA 8/13; MNA 8/14; PCHR 8/16)

A Palestinian succumbs to injuries sustained when IDF troops opened fire on Palestinian protesters along Gaza’s border fence on 5/14, bringing the death toll stemming from the Great March of Return to 145. (MNA, TOI, WAFA 8/13)

Along Gaza’s border fence, IDF troops violently disperse Palestinians gathering at a Great March of Return camp near Jabaliya refugee camp; 2 Palestinians are injured. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Jabaliya refugee camp; 5 fishermen are arrested and there are no reported injuries. In the West Bank, IDF troops arrest 7 Palestinians during late-night raids near Ramallah, Bethlehem, Qalqilya, and Jenin; and patrol near Qalqilya and Hebron. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 1 Palestinian as he is leaving Haram al-Sharif. (MNA 8/12; MNA, WAFA 8/13; PCHR 8/16)

At the weekly meeting of the Israeli cabinet, Israeli PM Netanyahu reaffirms that Israel has not committed to a cease-fire agreement with Hamas. “We are in the midst of a campaign against terror in Gaza. It entails an exchange of blows; it will not end in one strike. Our demand is clear—a complete cease-fire. We will not suffice with less than this,” he says. (TOI, YA 8/12)

Although the Israeli government denies that it has agreed to any cease-fire late on 8/9, as confirmed by Palestinian and Egyptian sources, a tentative calm returns to Gaza after two days of extensive IAF attacks. One Israeli official says, “quiet will be met with quiet.” (HA, MNA, TOI, YA 8/10)

Thousands of Palestinians gather along Gaza’s border fence to continue the Great March of Return. Some set fire to tires and roll them toward the fence; others fly incendiary kites and balloons into Israel, sparking at least 6 small fires. IDF troops violently disperse the demonstrations near Rafah, al-Bureij refugee camp, Khan Yunis, Jabaliya refugee camp, and Gaza City; 3 Palestinians are killed, including 1 paramedic, and 300 are injured (5 critically). The killings bring the Great March of Return death toll to 144. In the evening, Israeli forces stationed along the border fence shell a Palestinian home near al-Bureij refugee camp, causing moderate damage. In the West Bank, IDF troops violently disperse Friday protests in Kafr Qaddum near Qalqilya; 2 Palestinians are injured. Israeli soldiers shoot and critically injure a Palestinian youth during further clashes in Tuqu‘ village near Bethlehem. They also patrol near Hebron and Tulkarm. Israeli settlers assault a group of Palestinian solidarity activists in central Hebron, causing no serious injuries. (EI, HA, MNA, TOI, WAFA 8/10; MNA, TOI 8/11; PCHR 8/16)

Unidentified Palestinians in Gaza open fire on an Israeli construction crew working along Gaza’s border fence, causing minor damage to a vehicle. Israeli forces then shell a Hamas post near Jabaliya refugee camp, causing an unclear amount of damage. Armed groups in Gaza then launch 8 rockets into southern Israel, injuring 3 Israelis and causing minor damage in Sderot. In a significant escalation, the IAF conducts a massive wave of retaliatory air strikes, targeting approximately 140 sites across Gaza; 3 Palestinians are killed, including a pregnant mother and her 18-month-old child, and 12 are injured (2 critically). The strikes cause significant damage. After the first wave of air strikes, Hamas and other armed groups in Gaza launch approximately 150 rockets and other projectiles into Israel; 9 Israelis and 1 Thai worker are injured. (TOI 8/8; AHR, EI, HA, MNA, PCHR, TOI, WAFA 8/9; PCHR 8/16)

Before the escalation of violence in the afternoon, IDF troops open fire on Palestinian farmers working along Gaza’s border fence near Gaza City, causing no injuries or damage. In the West Bank, IDF troops arrest 8 Palestinians and issue 1 arrest summons during late-night raids in and around Qalqilya, Bethlehem, Jericho, Tulkarm, Hebron, and Nablus; and patrol near Jenin and Hebron. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 4 Palestinians and confiscate 3 vehicles during raids in Qalandia refugee camp and Qatanna. (MNA 8/8; MNA 8/9)

The residents of Khan al-Ahmar, the Bedouin village near Jerusalem that the Israeli government has slated for evacuation and destruction, decide not to accept any relocation proposals, including the one the Israeli government filed with the High Court of Justice on 8/7. (MNA 8/8)

PA FM al-Maliki announces that Colombia has decided to recognize the State of Palestine. Colombia was previously the only South American country not to recognize the State of Palestine. (WAFA 8/8; HA, TOI, YA 8/9)

The IAF conducts an air strike on a site near Jabaliya refugee camp in northern Gaza; 4 Palestinians affiliated with a small armed group are injured. The IDF claims that the men were launching incendiary kites and balloons into Israel. Later, IDF troops open fire on a small group of Palestinians congregating at a Great March of Return protest camp along the border fence near al-Bureij refugee camp; 3 Palestinian minors are injured. 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, IDF troops assault and injure 1 Palestinian and arrest 9 others during late-night raids in and around Ramallah, Bethlehem, and Hebron; and patrol near Hebron and Nablus. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 8 Palestinians during raids in Silwan, al-Tur, and a cemetery outside the Old City. A Palestinian demolishes his own home in Jabal Mukabir to avoid paying Israeli demolition fees. (HA, MNA, TOI, WAFA 8/5; MNA 8/6; PCHR 8/9)

A Palestinian minor succumbs to injuries sustained when Israeli troops violently dispersed Great March of Return protests along Gaza’s border on 3/30. His death brings the Great March of Return death toll to 141. (WAFA 8/5; MNA, TOI 8/6; PCHR 8/9)

In Gaza, Israeli drones bomb sites near Jabaliya refugee camp and near al-Bureij refugee camp allegedly being used as staging areas for incendiary kite and balloon attacks; there are no reported injuries. On the other side of the border fence, Israeli firefighters put out 10 small fires allegedly sparked by such attacks. Meanwhile, IDF troops violently disperse dozens of Palestinians gathering near al-Bureij refugee camp to continue the Great March of Return; 1 Palestinian is injured. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Rafah and Dayr al-Balah, causing no damage or injuries. In the West Bank, Israeli forces level Palestinian lands near Bethlehem to make space for the expansion of settlements in the area. IDF troops arrest 9 Palestinians and issue 1 arrest summons during late-night raids near Bethlehem, Ramallah, and Hebron; and patrol near Tulkarm and Hebron. A raid near Ramallah sparks clashes with stone-throwing Palestinian minors; there are no reported injuries. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 1 Palestinian during a late-night raid in Silwan. (HA, MNA, TOI, WAFA, YA 8/4; PCHR 8/9)

A Palestinian minor succumbs to injuries sustained when Israeli soldiers opened fire on Palestinian protesters along Gaza’s border on 8/3, bringing the death toll stemming from the Great March of Return to 140. (MNA, WAFA 8/4)

Israeli naval forces intercept the second ship of a planned flotilla sailing toward Gaza in a symbolic effort to break the Israeli blockade. As they did with the flotilla’s lead ship on 7/29, Israeli naval forces commandeer the ship, escort it to the port at Ashdod, and detain all 12 activists on board. “The forces made it clear to the sailors that they were violating the blockade and that any humanitarian supplies can be delivered to Gaza through the port of Ashdod,” the IDF states. (HA, MNA, TOI, WAFA 8/4)