The Palestine Chronology

In the West Bank, Israeli forces shot and killed a Palestinian who allegedly rammed an Israeli at a checkpoint near Fawwar refugee camp. Israeli forces were also filmed abusing and assaulting a gas station worker in the refugee camp. Elsewhere, Israeli forces shot and injured 2 Palestinians with baton rounds and arrested 4 others during a raid in Bayt Awa. Israeli forces also issued demolition notices for the family homes of 3 Palestinians killed by Israeli forces on 11/16 near Bayt Jala. 14 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in and around Nablus, Qalqilya, the Masafer Yatta area, Hebron, and Ramallah. In Gaza, Israeli forces bombed Khan Yunis, Rafah, Jabalia refugee camp, Nuseirat refugee camp, Maghazi, al-Bureij refugee camp, and Dayr al-Balah, killing at least 165 people, including Al-Quds journalist Jabr Abu Hadros and 6 members of his family in Nuseirat refugee camp and former Palestinian minister of awqaf and religious affairs and al-Aqsa Mosque preacher Sheikh Yousef Salameh in Maghazi. Israel also bombed near the Rafah crossing and hit the European Hospital, killing at least 5 people. 2 Israeli soldiers were killed and 13 were injured in combat. In Lebanon, Israel said it attacked several Hezbollah positions. In Syria, Israeli airstrikes killed 23 people, including 5 Syrians and 6 Iraqis, and wounded 18, near the Iraqi border. Israeli forces also bombed near Aleppo. (AJ, AJ, HA, NYT, UNOCHA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 12/30; AJ, HA, WAFA 12/31; AJ 1/2)

More than 21,672 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces in Gaza, including at least 8,800 children and 6,300 women, and around 56,165 have been injured since 10/7. At least 7,000 people were missing in rubble, including 1,700 children. 312 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces and settlers in the West Bank and East Jerusalem since 10/7, including 79 children. More than 3,812 people have been injured. Israel reported that 1,200 Israelis and foreign nationals have been killed and 5,400 have been injured since 10/7. 168 Israeli soldiers have been killed and 955 injured in Gaza since the ground invasion began on 10/27. Over 1.93 million Palestinians, nearly 85% of the population of Gaza, have been displaced since 10/7. There has been a complete electricity blackout in Gaza since 10/12 due to the Israeli blockade. As of 12/23, at least 65,000 housing units had been destroyed and 290,000 had been damaged in Israeli airstrikes since 10/7, constituting over 60% of all housing units. UNOCHA said more than 100,000 people have fled to Rafah in the past few days. UNICEF delivered 600,000 doses of vaccines to Gaza, saying that more than 16,800 infants have missed routine vaccines. UNRWA said 40% of Palestinians in Gaza were at risk of famine. 103 trucks carrying aid entered Gaza. (AJ, UNOCHA, UNOCHA 12/30)

The Gaza Ministry of Health held a press conference saying Palestinians captured by Israeli forces in Gaza were being tortured and held in poor condition. The ministry also said it had been able to reopen the medical facilities al-Arabi Hospital, Patient Friend’s Benevolent Society, Assahaba Medical Complex, al-Helou International Hospital, and several first aid centers. Lastly, it said that 5,300 people in critical condition needed to be evacuated to hospitals outside of Gaza to save their lives. 13 out of 36 hospitals in Gaza are partially functioning, 9 of which are located in the south, the rest are out of service. (AJ, UNOCHA 12/30)

The armed wing of the PFLP, the Abu Ali Mustafa Brigades, released a picture it said showed the body of 1 of the Israeli soldiers held captive in Gaza, saying he was killed by Israeli forces when they tried to rescue him. It was unclear if the soldier was taken captive on 10/7 or during the ongoing ground invasion. (AJ, HA, REU 12/30)

The PA foreign ministry said Israel was targeting UNRWA to expel the agency from Gaza. (AJ 12/30)

Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a press conference that the border zone between Egypt and Gaza, known as the Philadelphi Corridor, must be under Israeli control. Netanyahu also said Israel will attack Iran if Hezbollah expands its attacks on Israel. Ynet reported that Israel wants an underground wall along the Gaza border with Egypt. Netanyahu reportedly invited Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and war cabinet member Benny Gantz to participate in the press conference, which they declined. PLO secretary-general Hussein al-Sheikh said Netanyahu’s plans were “a blatant violation of agreements with Egypt and a termination of all agreements with the PLO,” calling on a unified Palestinian and Arab stance against it. (AJ, HA, REU, REU 12/30; AJ, AJ, WAFA, WAFA 12/31)

Israeli finance minister Bezalel Smotrich said Israeli leaders will discuss resettling Palestinians in Gaza after the war. (AJ 12/30)

Israeli forces hacked the broadcast of the radio channel Voice of Palestine, issuing threats to people in Gaza. (WAFA 12/30)

The Wall Street Journal said that by mid-December Israel had dropped 29,000 bombs on Gaza, destroying 70% of homes, making Israel’s attacks “comparable in scale to the most devastating warfare in the modern record.” (AJ, HA 12/30; AJ, WAFA 12/31)

The New York Times reported that the Israeli military was so ill-prepared for Operation Al-Aqsa Flood on 10/7 that soldiers used WhatsApp groups and social media posts to decide where to target. (AJ, NYT 12/30)

In the West Bank, a Palestinian man succumbed to injuries sustained from Israeli forces during a raid in Tulkarm on 11/7. Israeli settlers opened fire at Palestinian vehicles near Bethlehem; no injuries were reported. Israeli settlers also began constructing a settlement road on Palestinian-owned land in Birin. Israeli forces shot and killed 4 Palestinians, including 2 children, and injured 17 others during raids in al-Fara’a refugee camp, Ya’bad, and Balata refugee camp. Israeli forces also opened fire at a Palestinian vehicle and detained the driver in Husan. Elsewhere, Israeli forces also demolished a home in Umm Rukba near al-Khader and 2 homes and 2 agricultural structures in Umm Qissa in the Masafer Yatta area. 42 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in and around Hebron, Jenin, Ramallah, Nablus, Bethlehem, Qalqilya, and Tubas. In East Jerusalem, Israeli settlers toured the Haram al-Sharif compound. Israeli forces demolished parts of a home in Silwan. In Gaza, Israeli forces bombed Maghazi, Khan Yunis, Jabalia refugee camp, Rafah, Nuseirat refugee camp, and Gaza City, killing hundreds of people, including more than 100 in Jabalia. Prominent Palestinian poet and academic Refaat Alareer was also killed along with several family members in Gaza City. 3 Israeli soldiers were killed in combat. Rockets were fired at Israel, injuring 1 in Nir Yitzhak. In Lebanon, rockets were fired at Israeli military sites and soldiers in Tal Shaar and Karm al-Tuffah and Israel attacked several places. In Yemen, the Houthi-led government said it had fired ballistic missiles at Israeli military posts near Eilat which were shot down by Israel’s Arrow missile defense system. The U.S. said it had shot down a drone launched by Yemen. (AJ, AJ, AP, HA, HA, HA, HA, NYT, NYT, REU, REU, REU, REU, UNOCHA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 12/6; AJ, AJ 12/7; AJ 12/8)

The casualty numbers for Gaza were not updated, leaving the number at more than 16,248 Palestinians killed by Israeli forces in Gaza, including at least 6,387 children and 4,257 women, and around 43,616 injured since 10/7. At least 7,000 people were missing in rubble, including 1,700 children. 257 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces and settlers in the West Bank and East Jerusalem since 10/7, including 67 children. More than 3,325 people have been injured. Israel reported that 1,200 Israelis and foreign nationals have been killed and 5,431 have been injured since 10/7. 90 Israeli soldiers have been killed in Gaza since the ground invasion began on 10/27. Over 1.9 million Palestinians, nearly 85% of the population of Gaza, have been displaced since 10/7. There has been a complete electricity blackout in Gaza since 10/12 due to the Israeli blockade. As of 11/18, at least 45,000 housing units had been destroyed and 233,000 had been damaged in Israeli airstrikes since 10/7, constituting 60% of all housing units. The Red Crescent said its ambulance center in the northern province of Gaza has stopped working due to a lack of fuel. Patients and staff were evacuated from the Kamal Adwan Hospital in Jabalia as the hospital had stopped working. 20 patients that could not be evacuated stayed at the hospital. 80 trucks carrying aid, including 15 gallons of fuel, entered Gaza. Only Rafah received aid for the fourth day in a row. 23 wounded Palestinians and 680 foreign nationals were evacuated to Egypt. (AJ, HA, NYT, UNOCHA, WAFA 12/6)

UN secretary-general Antonio Guterres invoked Article 99 of the UN Charter, forcing the UN Security Council to convene on 12/8 on the basis of threats to “international peace and security,” saying a ceasefire is needed in Gaza to avoid “irreversible implications for Palestinians as a whole and for peace and security in the region.” Israeli ambassador to the UN Gilad Erdan said Guterres had reached “a new moral low.” Israeli foreign minister Eli Cohen called Guterres a “danger to world peace.” After the invocation of Article 99, the UAE circulated a draft resolution calling for “an immediate humanitarian ceasefire,” and for all parties to comply with international law. (AJ, AP, AX, HA, NYT, REU, UNOCHA, WAFA 12/6; AJ, AJ, AJ, HA, REU, WAFA 12/7; AP, WAFA 12/8)

The Israeli security cabinet approved an increase in the amount of fuel entering Gaza from around 13,000 gallons to 26,000 gallons a day. Axios reported that the decision was made after pressure from the Biden administration, which had called on Israel to allow 39,000 gallons to enter Gaza daily. The decision was opposed by National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich. (AJ 12/6; AX 12/7)

Birzeit University published pictures of the central archive of the Gaza municipality, saying Israel had deliberately destroyed thousands of valuable documents to erase the history of Gaza. (AJ 12/6)

The PA Wall and Settlements Commission said it had recorded 610 Israeli settler attacks, which killed 10 Palestinians, since 10/7. (AJ 12/6)

Israeli defense minister Yoav Gallant signed an administration detention order for an Israeli settler who was arrested on 10/3 for attacking Palestinians. (HA 12/7)

PA UN envoy Riyad Mansour addressed the assembly of parties to the Rome Statute, saying “Israel has effectively destroyed every single requirement for live in the Gaza Strip” and complaining that the ICC has not delivered justice for Palestine. (AJ, WAFA, WAFA 12/6)

PA president Mahmoud Abbas met with U.S. vice president Kamala Harris’ National Security Advisor Phil Gordon in Ramallah, discussing the future of the political situation in Gaza after Israel’s war. (HA, WAFA 12/6; HA 12/7)

Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the PA will not govern Gaza as long as he is prime minister. (AJ 12/6)

Israel revoked the residency visa for UN special coordinator for the Middle East peace process Lynn Hastings, saying she did not condemn Hamas’ Operation Al-Aqsa Flood. The UN said on 12/1 that Hastings would be replaced in anticipation of the visa revocation. The PA condemned the revocation of Hastings’ visa. (AJ, WAFA, WAFA 12/6)

Israel’s military discussed closing the “Desert Frontier” unit made up of Israeli settlers in the West Bank after a series of incidents where soldiers from the unit attacked and abused Palestinians and Israeli activists. (HA 12/6)

The Association for Civil Rights in Israel (ACRI) said Israel has established 100 “Community Security Squads” equipped with M16 rifles, adding the members of the militias have only received 7 hours of training and lacked proper oversight. ACRI also said there have been reports of Palestinian citizens of Israel being rounded up by the militias to show their identity cards. (AJ, HA 12/6; HA 12/7)

UN high commissioner for human rights Volker Turk said he had asked Israel for weeks to have his team investigate Israeli allegations of sexual violence committed by Hamas militants in Israel on 10/7 but said Israel had not responded. (AJ, WAFA 12/6)

Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdoğan said “I consider even the debating of this plan as disrespectful to my Palestinian siblings. For us, this is not a plan that can be debated, considered, or discussed,” referring to Israeli suggestions that a buffer zone should be made within Gaza. U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller also said the Israeli plan was in violation of U.S. policy, suggesting Israel could make a buffer zone in its own territory. (AJ, HA, REU, REU 12/6)

Russian president Vladimir Putin met with UAE president Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi and Saudi crown prince Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh, discussing energy cooperation, the situation in Gaza, and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Saudi state media reported that Putin and bin Salman shared “deep concern” for the situation in Gaza. (AJ, AJ, AP, HA 12/6; AJ, REU 12/7)

The U.S. Senate failed to pass a $111 billion bill to provide $50 billion to Ukraine and $14 billion to Israel in a 49-51 vote. All Republicans and Democratic senators Bernie Sanders (D-VT) and Chuck Schumer (D-NY) voted against the bill. Republicans sought to separate the aid for Israel from the aid for Ukraine as many Republican senators are opposed to significant spending on Ukraine, while Sanders opposed spending on Israel given the Palestinian death toll in Gaza. Schumer changed his vote from in favor to against to allow him to bring the bill up again at a later date. (HA, NYT 12/6; AJ, HA 12/7)

Belgian prime minister Alexander De Croo said his government will work with the U.S. to sanction “individuals involved in actions that undermine peace, security, and stability” in the West Bank. (AJ 12/6; HA, HA, REU, WAFA 12/7)

Reuters reported that an “orientation note” circulated among EU foreign ministers ahead of a meeting showed the EU was considering tougher sanctions on Hamas and imposing sanctions against violent Israeli settlers. EU commissioner for crisis management Janez Lenarcic condemned an Israeli settler attack in Khirbet Zanuta which destroyed an EU-funded school. Nils Schmid, foreign policy spokesperson of Germany’s ruling Social Democratic Party, said imposing sanctions on settlers was a good idea. (HA, REU, REU, REU 12/6)

Haaretz reported that Foreign Minister Cohen had bypassed objections from foreign ministry staff to issue diplomatic passports for Prime Minister Netanyahu’s son Yair, Likud politician and settlement leader Israel Gantz, and senior Likud member Benny Biton. (HA 12/7)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers attacked a Palestinian family in their home in the Masafer Yatta area, causing bruises. Israeli settlers also opened fire at Palestinians harvesting olives in Kafr Ni’ma; no injuries were reported. Elsewhere, Israeli settlers opened fire at Palestinian homes in Hebron; no injuries were reported. Israeli settlers, reportedly disguised as soldiers, also attacked Palestinians west of Jericho with stones and clubs, causing injuries and damage. Israeli forces shot and killed a Palestinian during a funeral procession in Beit Umar, injured 1 other with live ammunition; others suffered tear-gas related injuries. Israeli forces also violently dispersed Palestinian protesters at al-Jalamah checkpoint, killing 2 and injuring 2 others. Elsewhere, Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in Aqabat Jaber refugee camp, injuring 3 with live ammunition. Israeli forces also violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in Bethlehem, injuring a minor with a baton round. Meanwhile, Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinian protesters near Far’un, injuring 1 with live ammunition. Israeli forces also shot and injured 3 Palestinians near the separation wall west of Attil. Separately, Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in al-Bireh, injuring 2 with live ammunition. Israeli forces also demolished 2 agricultural structures in Mughayyir al-Abeed in the Masafer Yatta area. Additionally, Israeli forces fired tear gas near a hospital in Dura, causing tear-gas related injuries. A rocket, either launched from Gaza or an Iron Dome interceptor, hit Baqa ash-Sharqiya, killing 1 Palestinian and injuring 6 others. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces shot and killed 2 Palestinians in Silwan after they allegedly fired fireworks at Israeli forces. Israeli forces also violently dispersed Palestinians in Isawiya and Ras al-Amud. Elsewhere, Israeli forces arrested 13 Palestinians on suspicion of incitement and supporting Hamas. In Gaza, Israeli naval forces fired shells at a port west of Gaza City and Khan Yunis, damaging the port and fishing boats. Israeli airstrikes also killed hundreds of Palestinians and caused damage, especially to the Rimal, al-Karama, and al-Furqan neighbourhoods and Jabaliya. Gaza economy minister Juad Abu Smallah was reportedly assassinated by Israel. It was reported that white phosphorus bombs were dropped on al-Karama. UNRWA said its headquarters in Gaza was hit by Israeli bombs. Hundreds of rockets were fired at Israel from Gaza. Near Gaza, Israel said it had killed 4 militants at a beach north of Gaza and 2 in Kibbutz Re’im. Militants were also reported to have attacked Mefalsim, causing casualties. In Lebanon, militants fired anti-tank missiles at an Israeli vehicle and Israeli forces attacked militants with a helicopter and artillery. Rockets were also fired toward Israel. In Syria, rockets were launched at the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights and Israel fired artillery and mortar shells at Syria. (AP 10/7; AJ, AJ, AJ, AJ, AJ, AJ, AP, AP, HA, HA, REU, REU, REU, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 10/10; AJ, AP, AP, AP, HA, REU 10/11)

Israel claimed to have regained full control of the area around Gaza, saying the bodies of approximately 1,500 Palestinian militants were found in the area. The Gaza Ministry of Health said 830 Palestinians had been killed in Israeli airstrikes and 4,250 wounded since 10/7 as of 5.30 p.m. 22 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces and settlers in the West Bank and East Jerusalem since 10/7, including 4 children; 332 have been injured. Israeli media reported that as of 9 p.m. more than 1,000 Israelis and foreign nationals had been killed and 2,806 injured since 10/7. The UN said 263,934 Palestinians have been displaced, with 175,486 people sheltering at UN facilities. All but 1 mobile communications tower was destroyed in Israeli strikes. More than 610,000 people in Gaza were disconnected from the water supply due to Israeli actions. The Gaza Power Plant was reported to run out of fuel by noon on 10/11, with electricity currently limited to 3-4 hours per day. (AJ 10/9; AJ, AJ, ALM, AP, AP, AP, AP, HA, HA, HA, REU, REU, REU, UNOCHA, UNOCHA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 10/10; AJ, AP, AP, REU 10/11)

The Gaza Ministry of Health called for the opening of a “safe corridor” to allow medical aid as hospitals are overwhelmed. 4 ambulances and 1 hospital in Beit Hanun were targeted by Israeli airstrikes, closing the hospital. PLO secretary-general Hussein al-Sheikh said Israel was refusing to allow aid from the West Bank to enter Gaza. (AJ, AJ 10/10; WAFA 10/11)

Israeli military spokesperson Richard Hecht said Israel may not use the same “level of fidelity” in warning civilians before striking homes and apartment buildings. It had been reported that Israel no longer used smaller munitions to “knock” on the roofs of apartment buildings or call building managers before demolishing them with larger bombs. Hecht also called the parliament and ministries in Gaza legitimate targets. Hecht further said Palestinians in Gaza should flee to Egypt via the Rafah crossing, first saying that it is open and later tweeting that he did not know if it was open. Israel bombed the crossing on 10/9 after which it was closed. Israel also hit the crossing today. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant said the Israeli military would release “all constraints” on its attacks on Gaza and is “transitioning to a full-scale offensive.” The Israeli military said it had dropped hundreds of tons of bombs on Gaza and is emphasizing “damage, not precision.” (AJ 10/9; AJ, AJ, HA, HA, REU, REU 10/10)

The Israeli military began sending planes to Europe to collect reservists that have been called up. More than 300,000 Israeli military reservists were called in to participate in the Israeli assault on Gaza. (REU 10/9; AJ, HA, REU 10/10)

Israeli national security minister Itamar Ben-Gvir said Israel would hand out 10,000 rifles to volunteers in Israeli border communities and in Israeli settlements. (AJ, REU 10/10)

A plane carrying U.S. ammunition arrived in Israel. The USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier reached the eastern Mediterranean. Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdoğan criticized the U.S. for moving the carrier near Israel, warning of a massacre in Gaza. (AJ, HA, REU 10/10; AP 10/12)

Thousands of Jordanians protested in Amman against the Israeli attacks on Gaza, demanding the Israeli embassy be closed and that Jordan end its peace treaty with Israel. (REU 10/11)

PA president Mahmoud Abbas spoke with Norwegian prime minister Jonas Gahr Støre about the Israeli attack on Gaza. PA envoy to the UN Riyad Mansour wrote a letter to the UN Security Council calling Israeli actions, including intentional starvation of Gaza, “genocidal.” (REU, WAFA 10/10)

The Likud Party said the leaders of the parties in the Israeli government coalition have agreed that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu can form an emergency unity government. Yisrael Beiteinu leader Avigdor Lieberman said on 10/8 that he will only join the unity government if the Israeli leadership commits to ending the policy of constraining Hamas and eliminates the organization. (HA, REU 10/10)

U.S. president Joe Biden gave a televised speech calling the Hamas operation on 10/7 “pure, unadulterated evil,” recounting unconfirmed Israeli narratives of militants committing rapes. Biden also compared Hamas to ISIS, attributed the operation to anti-Semitism, rather than resistance, and reiterated his stance in support of Israel, saying Israel has a “duty to respond,” despite the mass civilian casualties in Gaza. Biden further stated that the U.S. is sending ammunition and interceptors for the Iron dome to Israel. Lastly, Biden warned other countries and organizations against getting involved against Israel. Hamas called Biden’s speech deplorable and inflammatory, saying Hamas launched its operation to defend the Palestinian people and put an end to the occupation. Biden also spoke with Prime Minister Netanyahu about U.S. assistance. 392 members of the U.S. House of Representatives co-sponsored a resolution in support of Israel, calling the Hamas operation “barbaric.” It is unknown if the resolution will pass, as it is unclear if the acting speaker of the House Patrick McHenry (R-NC) has the authority to bring the resolution to the floor. (AJ, AJ, AJ, HA, HA, HA 10/10; FWD, HA, REU, REU 10/11)

U.S. national security advisor Jake Sullivan said the U.S. was in talks with Egypt and Israel to create a humanitarian corridor for residents of Gaza. (HA, REU 10/10)

The U.S. State Department said Secretary of State Antony Blinken will arrive in Israel on 10/12 for meetings with Israeli leaders. Blinken will also travel to Jordan. UK foreign secretary James Cleverly is also scheduled to arrive in Israel on 10/11. (AJ, HA, REU 10/10; REU 10/11)

U.S. homeland security advisor Liz Sherwood-Randall said the U.S. is working on different options to ensure that all U.S. citizens can leave Israel by air, sea, and land. There are currently no direct flights from Israel to the U.S. Many other countries, including France, Germany, and Canada, said they are planning on offering their citizens flights out of Israel. (AJ, HA 10/10)

President Erdoğan spoke with Russian president Vladimir Putin about measures to halt the Hamas-Israel conflict and deliver humanitarian aid. Erdoğan also said he is having talks with regional leaders to negotiate a halt to the war. Egyptian president Abdel Fatah al-Sisi and Qatari emir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani spoke about protecting civilians in Gaza. (AJ, HA, HA, REU, REU, REU 10/10; AJ, AJ 10/11)

Houthi leader Abdel Malek al-Houthi said that if the U.S. intervened in the attack on Gaza it would respond with drones and missiles. (AJ, HA 10/10)

Berlin police banned pro-Palestinian demonstrations planned for 10/11, saying expressions of solidarity with Palestine pose a threat to public order. Australian police said a planned pro-Palestinian protest scheduled for 10/15 will be an unauthorized activity. (HA 10/10; REU 10/11)

UK home secretary Suella Braverman sent a letter to English and Welsh police, saying that waiving Palestinian flags may in some instances be illegal in cases where it is “intended to glorify acts of terrorism.” (AJ 10/10)

EU high commissioner for foreign affairs Josep Borell said he had invited PA and Israeli foreign ministers Riyad al-Maliki and Eli Cohen to an EU foreign ministers meeting to discuss the situation in Palestine and Israel. Borell also said that Israel must adhere to international law, saying Israel violates the law by imposing a total blockade on Gaza. Borell further said that the “overwhelming majority” of EU states are against cutting aid to Palestinians, as suggested by some EU officials. (AJ, HA, REU 10/10)

The UN high commissioner for human rights Volker Turk said the total siege of Gaza imposed by Israel was illegal under international law as it deprives civilians of goods essential to their survival. Turk also said Israeli airstrikes had struck residential and UN buildings as well as UN schools. (AJ, REU 10/10)

The UN Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem and Israel said that there was clear evidence that war crimes had been committed in Israel and Gaza. (AJ, UN, WAFA 10/10)

The office of the ICC prosecutor said the court mandate to investigate “the situation in the State of Palestine” extends to the current attacks. (REU 10/10) 

Sweden and Denmark suspended aid to Palestinians. (AJ, HA, REU 10/10)

The UAE donated $20 million in aid to Palestinians via UNRWA. (AJ 10/10)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces injured 2 Palestinians with stun grenade shrapnel during a raid in ‘Aqabat Jaber refugee camp. Israeli forces also shot and injured 3 Palestinians, including 1 minor, during a raid in al-Arroub refugee camp. 17 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in Hebron, Dura, Sa’ir, Beit Umar, Beit Kahel, Surif, ‘Azzun, Jenin, and Aqabat Jaber refugee camp. In East Jerusalem, 3 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in Jabel Mukaber and Biddu. Off the coast of Gaza, Israeli naval forces shot and injured 1 Palestinian fisherman with a baton round and arrested 2 others northwest of Rafah. (WAFA, WAFA 9/11; PCHR 9/14; UNOCHA 9/26)

10 Palestinians were killed and dozens injured during fighting in Ain al-Hilweh refugee camp in Lebanon over the weekend. Fighting reignited on 9/7 after a month of relative quiet. A ceasefire was declared later in the day after Lebanese general Elias al-Baysari met with members of Palestinian factions at his office in Beirut. (AJ, ALM, AP, REU 9/11)

The Jerusalem District Planning Authority approved the construction of 2 new Israeli settlements, Kidmat Tzion and the Hebron Strip, which is an extension of Givat Hamatos, in East Jerusalem. Kidmat Tzion lies within Ras al-Amud and will have 385 housing units. The plan was pushed by the Ateret Cohanim settlement organization which presented the plans in April. The Hebron Strip, of which 2/3 is in East Jerusalem, will have 3,500 housing units, a hotel, and a commercial area. (PCN 9/8; HA 9/11)

Al-Quds newspaper reported the U.S. has supplied the PA with armored vehicles, bullets, tear gas, sound bombs, riot shields, and k-9s with the approval of Israel. Palestinian and Israeli sources later told Haaretz that the U.S. had only transferred armored vehicles to the PA. The U.S. State Department denied that the U.S. had supplied weapons or ammunition. Israeli national security minister Itamar Ben-Gvir warned Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of consequences if Israel had allowed weapons to be transferred to the PA. Netanyahu later confirmed that Israel had facilitated the transfer of armored vehciles to the PA, but not weapons. The PA said it had not received equipment from Israel. Hamas said the reported transfer will only bolster the interests of the occupation.  (QDS 9/11; QDS 9/12; HA, HA, HA, QDS, WAFA 9/13; MDW 9/14; ALM 9/15)

The Israeli broadcaster Kan reported that the Israeli military had admitted to mistakenly shooting 3 Palestinians during a raid in Jenin on 8/28, injuring the 3, including 1 who is now a paraplegic. None of the Palestinian victims were interrogated after being dropped off at different hospitals. (TOI 9/11; MEMO 9/12)

Haaretz reported that Israeli police had banned vendors in the Old City of Jerusalem from selling t-shirts featuring the Palestinian flag, the Palestinian key, and other Palestinian symbols and slogans. (HA 9/11; MEMO 9/12)

4 Palestinian border police officers were sentenced to between 4 years in prison and community service for attacking and robbing Palestinians entering Israel via a hole in the separation wall south of Hebron. (HA 9/11; MEMO 9/12)

Israel’s Interior Ministry said that Palestinian Americans living in Gaza who are not considered a security threat by Israel will be able to enter Israel on a B2 tourist visa and use Israeli airports. First-degree Palestinian American relatives of people living in Gaza will also be allowed to visit Gaza for up to 90 days once a year. The policy change was part of Israel’s efforts to be admitted to the U.S. Visa Waiver program. (MEE, MEMO, REU 9/11)

U.S. assistant secretary of state for Near Eastern affairs Barbara Leaf met with Israeli officials, reportedly discussing Palestinian demands related to the Israel-Saudi normalization deal. Israeli national security advisor Tzachi Hanegbi said at a conference at Reichman University that he is in talks with the PA about their demands but had threatened that if the PA approach the ICJ Israel will sever security and political ties. (HA, HA, QDS 9/11)

More than 20,000 people were feared dead after a storm broke 2 dams near the eastern Libyan city of Derma. At least 23 Palestinians died in the flood. The PA’s Emergency Intervention and Response Team arrived in Libya on 9/13 to assist with finding survivors. The storm also caused flooding in Gaza, damaging infrastructure and homes. (WAFA, WAFA 9/11; AJ, HA, NYT, WAFA 9/12; AJ, AJ, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 9/13; AJ, QDS 9/14; AP 9/15)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers threw stones at a Palestinian truck driving near Huwwara, injuring the driver and causing damage. Israeli settlers also threw stones at Palestinian vehicles traveling near Hebron. Meanwhile, Israeli settlers with a military escort also raided Qaryut, leading to tear-gas related injuries. Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in Kafr Qaddum, causing tear-gas related injuries. Israeli forces also violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in Bayt Dajan, assaulting 1 journalist and causing tear-gas related injuries. Elsewhere, Israeli forces violently dispersed Israeli activists protesting near the home of Israeli national security minister Itamar Ben-Gvir in the Kiryat Arba settlement, arresting 2 and confiscating Palestinian flags. 2 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in Ni’lin and Surda. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces assaulted Palestinians trying to enter the Haram al-Sharif compound for noon prayers, injuring 4. Israeli forces also violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in Sheikh Jarrah, injuring 1. In Gaza, Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinian protesters near the Gaza fence east of Malka, injuring 1 with live ammunition and others with tear gas. Israeli forces also opened fire at Palestinian farmers east of Gaza City; no injuries were reported. (HA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 8/25; HA 8/27; PCHR 8/31; UNOCHA 9/11)

1 Palestinian man succumbed to injuries sustained from Israeli forces in Jenin refugee camp on 7/3 during Israel’s 2-day assault on the camp. (WAFA 8/25; AJ, AP 8/26; PCHR 8/31)

Israeli defense minister Yoav Gallant signed an order to release a settler from administrative detention, saying he had confessed to his crimes. The settler was part of the settler attacks on Palestinians in the last week of June. (HA 8/25)

The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs released a survey of the West Bank, finding Israel placed 645 obstacles to the movement of Palestinians. The UN counted 49 permanently staffed checkpoints, 139 intermittently staffed checkpoints, 304 roadblocks, 73 earth walls, road barriers, and trenches, and 80 obstacles of various types in H2 in Hebron, in addition to the restrictions posed by the separation wall. (UNOCHA 8/25)

The Wall Street Journal reported that the Chinese state-owned company China National Nuclear Corp had offered to build a nuclear plant in Saudi Arabia. It has been widely reported that a condition for Saudi normalization with Israel depends on U.S. help with establishing a nuclear program in Saudi Arabia. 4 U.S. officials also told Axios that the U.S. has informed Israel that it would have to make significant concessions to Palestine if they are to strike a normalization deal with Saudi Arabia. (AJ, ALM, AX, HA, WSJ 8/25; MEE 8/26)

The Dutch Supreme Court found that a Palestinian man, Ismail Ziada, cannot sue former Israeli military officials Benny Gantz and Amir Eshel over their involvement in the 2014 airstrike that killed 6 members of his family. The court found that the 2 have immunity from civil prosecution in the Netherlands. (AP, HA, REU 8/25)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers set up 3 tents and vandalized Palestinian-owned vehicles in Deir Dibwan. Israeli settlers also raided a spring in Qaryut. Israeli forces shot and injured 2 Palestinians near the separation wall in Habla. Israeli forces also violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in Kafr Qaddum, injuring 5 with baton rounds and others with tear gas. Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in Shufa, Qaryut, and Bayt Dajan, causing tear-gas related injuries. 8 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in Fawwar refugee camp, Hebron, Kafr Ra’i, and Qabatiya. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 5/5; PCHR 5/11; UNOCHA 5/19)

Israel handed over the bodies of 3 Palestinians killed by Israeli forces on 3/12 in Nablus to the PA. (WAFA 5/5; WAFA 5/6; HA 5/7)

17 Democrats in the U.S. House of Representatives introduced the “Defending the Human Rights of Palestinian Children and Families Living Under Israeli Military Occupation Act.” The lawmakers, led by Betty McCollum (D-MN), were calling for additional oversight of Israel’s spending of U.S. aid. (AJ, HA, MDW 5/5)

In the West Bank, armed Israeli settlers attacked Palestinians harvesting olives near Awarta. Israeli settlers also vandalized 8 olive trees near Hebron. Elsewhere, Israeli settlers assaulted Palestinians and vandalized 1 greenhouse in Ein al-Beida. Israeli forces shot and killed 1 Palestinian child in al-Mazra'a al-Gharbiyeh as Palestinians protested an Israeli settler incursion in the village; 50 Palestinians were injured by baton rounds and tear gas and Israeli forces attacked Palestinian paramedics trying to save the Palestinian child’s life. Israeli forces also shot and killed 1 Palestinian child in Qalqilya at the separation wall. Elsewhere, Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in Kafr Qaddum, injuring 13 with baton rounds and others with tear gas. Israeli forces also shut down an entrance to Tuqu‘. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces and settlers assaulted Palestinians harvesting olives in Wadi Rababa. (AJ, AP, HA, REU, TOI, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 10/7; CNN, PCHR 10/8; AJ, MDW, NYT 10/9; PCHR 10/13; UNOCHA 10/16; HA 11/4)

Israel’s defense ministry said that Israel will pay the family of Omar Abdalmajeed As’ad, a U.S. citizen who was killed by Israeli forces during an arrest raid in Jiljilyya on 1/12, $139,000 in exchange for the family withdrawing its lawsuit against the state. The brother of As’ad told The Guardian that his family had not been contacted by the Israeli defense ministry and that they would not accept a deal that forces them to drop their lawsuit, saying they want justice. (TOI 10/7; AJ, AP, HA 10/9; MEMO 10/10; GDN 10/11; AP 10/12; MEE 10/21)

Israel announced that it will close the crossings to the West Bank and Gaza from 10/9 at 4 P.M. to 10/10 at 11.59 P.M. and again from 10/16 at 4 P.M. to 10/17 at 11.59 P.M. for the Jewish Sukkot holiday. (HA 10/7)

In the West Bank, armed Israeli settlers marched through Hebron, shouting racist slogans at Palestinians. Israeli forces shot and killed 1 Palestinian riding a motorcycle by the separation wall near al-Eizariya; during the subsequent funeral procession, Israeli forces shot and injured 1 minor with a baton round. The killing marked the 100th Palestinian killed by Israeli soldiers and settlers in the West Bank and East Jerusalem in 2022. Israeli forces fired tear gas at activists protesting in solidarity with Palestinians in al-Twana and Khalat al-Dabaa in the Masafer Yatta area, causing tear-gas related injuries. Elsewhere, Israeli forces shot and injured 1 Palestinian with a baton round during a late-night raid in Jalazun refugee camp. 7 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in Hebron and Aida refugee camp. Off the coast of Gaza, Israeli naval forces opened fire at Palestinian fishermen; no injuries were reported. (HA, MEE, REU, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 10/1; AP, BBC, JP, PCHR 10/2; PCHR 10/6; UNOCHA 10/16)

U.S. mediators delivered their proposal for demarking the Israel-Lebanon maritime borders. Both Israeli and Lebanese leaders spoke favorably about the proposal. The Israeli cabinet is scheduled to meet on 10/6 to vote on the proposal. (AX, REU 10/1; AJ, AP, REU, TOI 10/2)

In the West Bank, unidentified militants shot and injured former Hamas deputy prime minister and professor at An-Najah University Nasser al-Shaer in Kafr Qalil; PA president Mahmoud Abbas condemned the assassination attempt and ordered an investigation into the incident. Hamas blamed Fatah incitement against Hamas on the attempt. Israeli settlers uprooted 70 olive saplings in al-Masara. Israeli settlers also vandalized 30 olive trees in Turmus ‘Ayya. Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinians and international activists protesting in al-Twana against ethnic cleansing in the Masafer Yatta area. Israeli forces also violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in Kafr Qaddum, injuring 5 with baton rounds and others with tear gas. Elsewhere, Israeli forces shot and injured 1 Palestinian worker entering Israel at the Tarqumiyah checkpoint. 4 Palestinians were arrested, including 1 during a late-night raid in Hebron, 2 at the separation wall near Jenin, and 1 at the Allenby Bridge crossing. (AP, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 7/22; MEE 7/23; PCHR 7/28; UNOCHA 8/5)

India contributed $2.5 million in aid to the UNRWA. (WAFA 7/22)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces violently dispersed activists protesting Israeli military drills in Masafer Yatta. Israeli forces also demolished parts of road used to access agricultural lands near Ras Karkar. Elsewhere, Israeli forces demolished a car repair shop in ‘Anata, 1 house under construction in Nil‘in, 4 structures in Nahalin, and 1 agricultural structure in al-Khader. 8 Palestinians were arrested during raids in Beit Furik, Jenin, Qabatiya, Kafr Abbush, Ein as-Sultan refugee camp, and Hebron. In East Jerusalem, Israeli authorities demolished 1 agricultural structure in Isawiya and razed land in Bayt Hanina. 1 Palestinian was arrested during a late-night raid in Shu‘fat refugee camp. In Gaza, Israeli forces made incursions to level agricultural lands east of Rafah. Israeli forces also opened fire at Palestinian herders east of Jabaliya; no injuries were reported. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 6/22; PCHR 6/23; UNOCHA 7/2)

The Israeli military began construction of a 45-kilomiter concrete barrier in the northern part of the West Bank that will replace a metal fenced area of the separation wall. (HA, MEMO 6/22)

Israeli military reopened an iron gate to the Abud village near Ramallah after Haaretz submitted an inquiry into why it had been closed. The iron gate to Abud had been closed since 6/8, forcing residents to take long detours to reach Ramallah. (HA 6/26)

The PA granted bail for 14 Palestinian security officers accused of partaking in the killing of PA critic Nizar Banat on 6/24/2021. The next court hearing in the case is scheduled for 7/3. (MEE 6/22)

110 of 120 members of the Knesset voted, in a preliminary vote, to dissolve the Knesset. A final vote is expected next week. (ALM, AP, AX, HA, REU 6/22)

Axios reported that the U.S. is working on a roadmap for normalization between Israel and Saudi Arabia ahead of President Joe Biden’s visit to the 2 countries in July. (AX, MEE, TOI 6/22; AX, TOI 6/23)

A U.S. federal appeals court upheld an Arkansas law requiring state contractors to pledge not to boycott Israel. The judge writing the opinion claimed that “[b]ecause those commercial decisions are invisible to observers unless explained, they are not inherently expressive and do not implicate the First Amendment.” The American Civil Liberties Union said it would appeal the case to the Supreme Court. (AJ, AP, FOX, HA, HUFF, MDW, MEE, WP 6/22; TOI 6/23)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces delivered demolition notices for 4 houses, 8 water wells, and 1 agricultural structure in a-Tabban in the Masafer Yatta area and stop-work notices for 2 water wells and 1 agricultural structure in Zif. Israeli forces also sealed a well in Beit Lid. Elsewhere, Israeli forces prevented Palestinians from working their land in Qusra. Israeli forces also fired tear gas at Palestinians trying to enter Israel for work at the separation wall near Jenin. 15 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in and around Hebron, Bethlehem, Nablus, and Ramallah. In East Jerusalem, representatives from the EU and UN visited Palestinians in Silwan who are threatened by Israeli demolitions and displacement. Israeli forces shot and injured 3 minors with baton rounds on the Jerusalem-Ramallah street. 5 Palestinians were arrested during raids. In the Naqab, Israeli forces demolished al-Araqib for the 202d time since 2000. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 6/7; PCHR 6/9; UNOCHA 6/17)

The PA finance ministry said it would pay PA employees 80% of their wages as it continues to be unable to pay its employees in full due to Israel’s withholding of parts of the PA tax revenue. (REU 6/7)

PA prime minister Mohammed Shtayyeh met with German vice chancellor and economy and energy minister Robert Habeck in Ramallah. The 2 discussed German support for energy projects in Palestine. Prime Minister Shtayyeh briefed Vice Chancellor Habeck on Israeli violations against Palestinians. Shtayyeh also called on the international community to create a political horizon for ending the Israeli occupation and for Germany to exert pressure on Israel to allow the PA to hold elections in East Jerusalem. (WAFA 6/7)

UN human rights council’s commission of inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, and Israel, released its 1st report since receiving its mandate on 5/27/2021. In its report, it pointed to Israel’s continued occupation of Palestinian territory and discrimination against Palestinians as a key factor in recurrent tensions between Israelis and Palestinians. 2d, the report noted Palestinian resentment is fueled by lack of consequences for Israeli human rights violations. A commissioner working on the report said that “Israel clearly has no intentions of ending the occupation. In fact, it has established clear policies to ensure complete permanent control over the Occupied Palestinian Territory.” The report also criticized the PA and Hamas for using the occupation as justification for human rights violations against their own people. (AJ, AP, HA, REU, UNOCHR, WAFA 6/7; MEE, MEMO, WAFA, WAFA 6/8)

Israeli ambassador to the UN Gilad Erdan was elected vice president of the 77th session of the UN general assembly (UNGA), along with 20 others. The appointment will see Ambassador Erdan chair UNGA meetings and being part of agenda selection. Erdan will serve for 1 year, starting in September. PA prime minister Mohammed Shtayyeh said that the PA leadership was “surprised by and deplore the election of Israel's ambassador to the United Nations for the position of Vice President of the United Nations General Assembly, which we consider an attempt to promote and legitimize the colonial occupation regime on the land of the State of Palestine.” (JP 6/7; TOI 6/8; MEE 6/9; WAFA 6/13)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers attacked Palestinians in Haris with stones before Israeli soldiers arrived at the scene, at the request of the Palestinians being attacked, and fired baton rounds and stun grenades at the Palestinians, injuring 3 with baton rounds. The 3 Palestinians were taken to hospitals in Israel and the West Bank for treatment. Israeli settlers also threw stones at Palestinian vehicles east of Hebron, causing damage. Elsewhere, Israeli settlers vandalized 30 olive trees and saplings in Kafr ad-Dik and threw stones at Palestinian homes in Burin. Israeli forces punitively demolished the family home of 1 alleged Palestinian attacker in Silat al-Harithiya, 3 were injured when Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinians protesting the demolition. Israeli forces also raided Beit Umar, injuring 2 with baton rounds. Elsewhere, Israeli forces assaulted 1 Palestinian at a checkpoint near Deir Balut. Israeli forces also delivered a demolition notice for a poultry farm in al-Twana. Meanwhile, Israeli forces shot and injured 1 Palestinian at the separation fence near Habla. (AJ, PCHR, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 5/7; WAFA 5/8; HA 5/9; PCHR 5/12; UNOCHA 5/13)

Syria said Israel had conducted air strikes in Deir El Zour; no injuries were reported. (HA 5/7; HA 5/11)

The Wall Street Journal reported that former senior White House advisor Jared Kushner’s private equity fund Affinity Partners will reinvest some of the $2 billion raised from Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth fund in Israeli tech companies. The New York Times had earlier reported that senior members of the Saudi wealth fund had advised against investing in Kushner’s equity fund over concerns that the manager of the fund was found to be inexperienced, but that these concerns were dismissed by Saudi crown prince Mohammad bin Salman. (HA, WSJ 5/7)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces prevented Palestinians from renovating a water reservoir in Bayt Dajan. 6 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in and around al-Yamun, Deir Balut, Hebron, Beita, and Deir Nidham. In East Jerusalem, the head of Shu‘fat’s local council Mahmoud Ali al-Shaykh was arrested during a late-night raid. In Gaza, the UN mine action service removed an unexploded Israeli bomb fired in May during Israel’s Operation Guardians of the Wall. Off the coast of Gaza, Israeli naval forces opened fire at Palestinian fishermen within 3 nautical miles west of Gaza; no injuries were reported. (WAFA 8/26; MEMO 8/27; PCHR 9/2)

Egypt reopened the Rafah crossing for traffic from Egypt toward Gaza but not from Gaza toward Egypt. Egypt closed the crossing on 8/23. (MEMO, REU 8/25; AJ, MEMO, WAFA 8/26)

Israel’s defense ministry said Israel would increase the number of allowed imports of vehicles and goods to Gaza and issue more permits for Palestinian businesspeople entering Israel from Gaza. (AJ, ALM, AP, HA 8/26)

Hamas thanked Jordanian king Abdullah II for allowing its leaders Ismail Haniyeh and Khaled Meshaal to attend the funeral in Amman of former Hamas leader Ibrahim Ghosheh, who passed away today. The funeral will take place on 8/27. (MEMO 8/27)

U.S. president Joe Biden postponed a meeting with Israeli prime minister Naftali Bennett in Washington D.C. after suicide bombs killed nearly 90 people at the Kabul airport as evacuations continue after the Taliban took over almost all of Afghanistan. Among the killed were 11 U.S. Marines and 1 other navy soldier. President Biden and Prime Minister Bennett are expected to meet on 8/27 instead. German chancellor Angela Merkel reportedly also canceled a visit to Israel next week due to the situation in Afghanistan. The attack at Kabul airport was reportedly made by Islamic State – Khorasan Province, an Afghan offshoot of the Islamic State. (HA 8/25; AJ, AJ, AP, AP, AX, FOX, HA, HA, HA, HA, MEE, MEMO 8/26; AP, AP, AP, HA, REU 8/27)

The New York Times reported that when Israel attacked the Iranian Natanz nuclear facility on 4/11/2021, the Netanyahu administration gave the U.S. 2 hours’ notice before the attack. U.S. officials told the NYT that Israel deliberately gave the Biden administration too little time to ask Israel to call off its attack. (HA, NYT 8/26)

Germany provided the PA a grant of $29.5 million to develop the education sector in the West Bank. (WAFA 9/26; MEMO 8/27)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers vandalized 1 solar panel and 15 olive seedlings near ‘Urif. Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in Dura and Bayt Umar, leading to tear-gas related injuries. Israeli forces also violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in Hebron, injuring 13, including 5 with live ammunition and 8 with rubber-coated bullets; others suffered tear-gas related injuries. Elsewhere, Israeli forces seized a caravan in Sabastiyya. 5 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in Tarqumiyya and Jenin refugee camp; Israeli forces also seized a vehicle during a house raid in Aqraba. In East Jerusalem, 1 Israeli settler rammed Palestinians with his vehicle near the Old City, causing injuries; Palestinians were throwing stones at the vehicle but it was unclear what transpired before the ramming, which appeared in a video. Israeli settlers also attacked Palestinians in Shaykh Jarrah during a tour of the neighborhood by 2 Israeli lawmakers, Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich. Israeli forces attacked Palestinian worshipers with tear gas, sound bombs, and rubber-coated bullets at the Haram al-Sharif compound, injuring more than 305 people, including inside of al-Aqsa Mosque where a sound bomb caught a carpet on fire. Israeli forces prevented the Palestinian Red Crescent from entering the compound. Israel also reversed its decision from 5/9 to allow Jewish worshipers to enter the Haram al-Sharif compound for the Israeli celebration of Jerusalem Day. The Jerusalem Day march was later canceled by its organizers as Israeli police decided to prevent the settler march to go through the Damascus Gate plaza. Israeli forces also confiscated the keys to the al-Aqsa Mosque from the Islamic Waqf. Also at the Haram al-Sharif compound, Israeli police were filmed beating up an Israeli-accredited Palestinian journalist covering the events for Anadolu Agency. The Palestinian Red Crescent said that 612 Palestinians were injured throughout Jerusalem, including 333 who were hospitalized. In Gaza, Israeli started a military operation later dubbed “Guardian of the Wall” after Hamas fired rockets at Israel, giving Israel hours to leave the Haram al-Sharif compound. Hamas had earlier in the day warned Israel that it would fire rockets at 6 p.m. if Israel did not remove its forces from the holy places. 20 Palestinians were killed, including 9 children, and dozens were injured. The casualties included: 2, including 1 child, in 1 drone strike at Jabaliya; 10, including 6 children in 2 drone strikes at Bayt Hanun, with 32 others wounded, including 12 children; and 1, with 2 injured, in an Israeli air strike in Khan Yunis. 7 were also killed, including 1 child, and 34 were injured in Jabaliya in an explosion that was not conclusively attributed to an Israeli air strike. Additionally, damage was sustained in al-Bureij refugee camp, al-Qarara, and Rafah. In Israel, 1 Palestinian citizen of Israel was shot dead and 1 other injured by 1 Jewish-Israeli in Lydda; 3 Jewish-Israelis were arrested. Israeli forces later violently dispersed Palestinian-Israeli protesters at the Lydda city hall. In Ramla, Jewish-Israelis threw stones at Palestinian-Israelis and their property and set fire to trash cans. Israeli police dispersed Palestinian-Israeli protesters in Nazareth, Kafr Kana, Kafr Manda, Shefa-Amr, Majdal Krum, Dayr Khana, Umm al-Fahm, Baka al-Garbiyeh, Taiba, Jaffa, Haifa, and Jaljulya; 46 were arrested. The Knesset was evacuated after a rocket from Gaza landed in the vicinity of Jerusalem. (HA 5/9; AJ, AJ, AJ, AJ, AJ, AP, AX, FOX, GDN, HA, HA, HA, HA, HA, HA, HA, MEE, MEE, MEE, MEE, MEMO, NYT, PCHR, REU, REU, REU, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 5/10; ALM, HA, HA, MEE, PCHR, PCHR 5/11; ALM, HA, WAFA 5/12; WAFA 5/19; MEE 5/21; NYT 5/26)

Israel closed all crossings to Gaza and the sea for fishing as collective punishment for rockets fired at Israel. (PCHR 5/10)

The PA prime minister Mohammed Shtayyeh and the PA presidency condemned Israel’s attack on the Haram al-Sharif compound and called on the international community to take action. The PA civil affairs minister Hussein al-Sheikh said the Palestinian leadership is “examining all options to respond to this heinous aggression against the holy sites and the citizens.” PA president Mahmoud Abbas also discussed the situation with Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 5/10)

Leader of the Ra’am (United Arab List) Mansour Abbas said that he had broken off contacts with Israeli opposition leaders Yair Lapid and Naftali Bennett just before he was to have a joint meeting with them, citing the violence in Jerusalem and Gaza. Mansour Abbas met with Naftali Bennett on 5/9. (ALM, HA 5/10; ALM, HA, MEMO, NBC 5/11)

Israel attacked Syria in the Quneitra region with a helicopter, injuring 1. (HA 5/10)

Iran confirmed that it is in direct talks with Saudi Arabia to resolve the issues between the 2 countries. A Saudi official confirmed the talks on 5/7. (AJ, HA, REU 5/10)

The U.S. said 1 of its Coast Guard ships had fired 30 warning shots at 13 Iranian vessels that came too close to the ship and 6 other U.S. navy vessels. Iran said that it was the U.S. that had acted recklessly in the encounter. (AJ, HA, REU 5/10; AP, MEMO 5/11)

UN security council members met at an emergency session to discuss the situation in Palestine-Israel. No statement was issued after the meeting. U.S. state department spokesperson Ned Price said that the U.S. administration wanted to make sure that a statement would “not escalate tensions.” Spokesperson Price also refused to say if the U.S. condemned the Israeli air strike that killed 9 Palestinian children, and suggested that Palestinians, contrary to Israelis, do not have the right to defend themselves, saying that only states recognized by the U.S. have that right. (HA, MEE 5/11)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers attacked 1 Palestinian shepherd in Mareeha, near Jenin, causing moderate injuries. Israeli forces temporarily evicted Palestinians in Khirbet Humsa, citing military drills. Israeli forces also violently dispersed Palestinian protesters demonstrating against Israeli harassment of Palestinians in East Jerusalem, at the Separation wall near Bethlehem, leading to tear-gas related injuries and 1 arrest. 2 others were arrested during late-night raids in Bethlehem and Jalbun. In East Jerusalem, 2 Palestinians were arrested in the Old City. In Gaza, Israel reopened the Gaza fishing zone after closing it on 4/26. Israeli forces opened fire at agricultural lands east of al-Bureij; no injuries were reported. Off the coast of Gaza, Israeli naval forces opened fire at Palestinian fishermen west of Dayr al-Balah and within 4 nautical miles west of Bayt Lahiya; no injuries were reported. (AJ, HA, WAFA, WAFA 4/29; PCHR 5/6)

Israeli forces said it was a mistake when it detained 5 Palestinian children between the ages of 8 and 13 in the south of Hebron on 3/10. An investigation found that there was no reason to detain the 5 children. (TOI 4/29)

PA president Mahmoud Abbas announced that the Palestinian elections scheduled for 5/22 were postponed, citing Israeli ambiguity regarding whether Palestinians in East Jerusalem would be allowed to partake in the elections. President Abbas said that “as soon as Israel agrees [to allow Palestinians in East Jerusalem to partake] we will hold elections within a week.” Besides the Jerusalem issue, there was speculation that Abbas and Fatah had an interest in postponing the elections as splintering within the Fatah party has made Hamas the likely winner of the elections. Several Palestinian political leaders criticized Abbas’s decision to postpone elections, demanding a new date set. Hamas released a statement, calling the decision “a coup against the path of national partnership and consensus.” (CNN, HA, NPR, WAFA 4/29; AJ, AJ, ALM, PCHR, REU, WAFA, WAFA 4/30; WAFA, WAFA 5/1; HA, HA, WAFA 5/2)

In Israel, 45 Israelis were killed and more 150 injured during a stampede at a Jewish religious event on Jabal al-Jarmaq/Mount Meron. Upwards of 100,000 were said to have participated in the event. PA president Mahmoud Abbas wrote a letter to Israel’s President Reuven Rivlin expressing his condolences. (AJ, AJ, ALM, AP, HA, HA, HA 4/30; AP 5/1; AJ, HA 5/2)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers masked and armed with clubs attacked a Palestinian family of 10, including 8 children, as they were working their land south of Hebron; the 2 parents were evacuated to a hospital in Hebron; the settlers also vandalized the family’s vehicle. B’Tselem circulated a video of the incident; the family later said that it had filmed the whole incident because Israeli authorities had said it needed proof that settlers were frequently trespassing on their property. Israeli settlers also threw stones at Palestinian homes near Yatta. Elsewhere, Israeli settlers raided Burin, throwing stones at Palestinian homes; when Palestinians confronted the settlers, Israeli forces intervened, injuring 1 Palestinian with live ammunition and others with tear gas. Israeli settlers also threw stones at a Palestinian house in Huwwara. Israeli forces raided Silwad, leading to clashes with Palestinians; no injuries were reported. Israeli forces also leveled land near Nablus in preparation for expansion of the Rahalim settlement. Elsewhere, Israeli forces injured 1 Palestinian with a tear gas canister as he was trying to enter Israel for work by the separation barrier near Qalqilya. 4 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in and around Husan, Bayt Furik, and Jenin. Off the coast of Gaza, Israeli naval forces opened fire at Palestinian fishermen within 3 nautical miles west of Bayt Lahiya; no injuries were reported. (AP, HA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 3/13; AJ, PCHR 3/18; HA 3/19)

The PA announced a total lockdown of the West Bank from 3/14–3/19 due to a rise in COVID-19 cases. (HA, WAFA 3/13)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces claimed that it had stopped 2 stabbing attempts, including 1 in Tubas where 1 Palestinian man was shot after allegedly trying to stab a soldier. WAFA reported that the man was shot during a late-night raid and was in serious condition; and in a settlement outpost where 1 Palestinian woman allegedly tried to stab 1 settler before being arrested. Israeli forces also shot with live ammunition and injured 2 Palestinian minors during a raid in al-Khadir; 1 was reported in serious condition and the other in moderate condition. Israeli forces claimed the 2 had thrown Molotov cocktails at the forces. Elsewhere, Israeli forces raided the offices of the Palestinian Health Work Committees in Ramallah, seizing computers; 2 were arrested. Israeli forces also violently dispersed a protest against settlement expansion south of Hebron, injuring 1 with a tear gas canister while others suffered tear-gas related injuries. Meanwhile, Israeli forces demolished 1 house under construction and a water well in Bani Na‘im and delivered a stop-work order for 3 houses under construction in Zawata. 13 Palestinians were arrested during raids in and around Ramallah, al-‘Arub refugee camp, Hebron, Tuqu‘, Aida refugee camp, Tubas, and Bayt Duqqu. In East Jerusalem, 1 Palestinian man died in a fire in Kafr Aqab after Israeli forces held up Israeli fire trucks at the Qalandia checkpoint, saying they had to wait for military escort; Kafr Aqab is located in the Israeli-annexed East Jerusalem municipality, but on the West Bank side of the separation wall. Israeli police prevented Palestinians from holding an event celebrating International Women’s Day in al-Tur, arresting 2 women and seizing clothes and other material on display; Israeli police said the event was arranged by the PA. Israel considers PA activity in East Jerusalem illegal. 4 Palestinians were also arrested in Shu‘fat refugee camp. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire at agricultural lands east of Khuza‘a; no injuries were reported. (ALM, HA, HA, HA, TOI, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 3/8; HA 3/9; PCHR 3/11)

Israel began vaccinating Palestinians in the West Bank who hold Israeli work permits against the COVID-19 virus. Israel has allocated enough doses for 120,000 Palestinian workers. (HA, WAPO 3/8)

Hezbollah said that it and Lebanese forces in 2 separate incidents had intercepted Israeli drones flying over Lebanese air space. (HA 3/9)

In Lebanon, protests continued for the 7th day in a row as the Lebanese financial crisis continued to worsen and the country’s political crisis remained unresolved. (AJ, HA, REU 3/8)

In the West Bank, 1 Israeli settler killed 1 Palestinian after ramming him with his vehicle near Kafr Haris. Israeli forces punitively demolished 1 house by explosion in Tura belonging to the family of 1 Palestinian accused of killing 1 Israeli settler on 12/21/2020, displacing a family of 6, including 4 children; clashes erupted during the demolition, leading to the hospitalization of 1 elderly Palestinian who suffered tear gas inhalation and damage from the explosion was reported at 4 other houses in the vicinity. Israeli forces also delivered stop-work notices for 11 houses and 1 playground in Yasuf. Elsewhere, Israeli forces shot and injured 1 Palestinian trying to enter Israel for work by the separation barrier near Barta‘a. Israeli forces also seized 1 residential tent in Khirbet al-Rakiz, 1 tent near Susiya, and 1 tent used as a health care unit east of Yatta. The Palestinian mayor of Hebron said he had received death threats from several people including 1 Israeli settler mayor and Israeli MK Moshe Abutbul. 29 Palestinians were arrested during raids in and around ‘Ayn Yabrud, Ramallah, Baytin, al-Izzariya, al-Khadir, Sa‘ir, al-‘Arub refugee camp, Qabatiya, Jenin, Nablus, and Balata refugee camp. In East Jerusalem, 1 Palestinian was arrested during a raid in Issawiyya. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire at agricultural lands east of Abasan; no injuries were reported. Israeli forces also made incursions and leveled land east of al-Fukhari. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 2/10; PCHR, PCHR, WAFA, WAFA 2/11)

PA prime minister Mohammed Shtayyeh met with UN special coordinator on Middle East peace Tor Wennesland in Ramallah. (WAFA 2/10)

The Israeli health ministry said that Palestinians from the West Bank who work in Israel legally or illegally will not receive the COVID-19 vaccine from Israel. (HA 2/18)

Axios reported that diplomats from Egypt, Jordan, Germany, and France met with Israeli and PA officials separately, proposing a plan to restart peace negotiations including confidence measures such as Israel freezing settlement expansion and releasing bodies of Palestinians killed by Israeli forces and the PA reforming payments made to Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails. (AX 2/10)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers and Israeli forces attacked Palestinian journalists filming in the vicinity of the Ariel settlement. Israeli settlers also began construction on a tract of land in ‘Ayn Bus. Israeli forces seized and demolished residential tents in Khirbet Humsa provided by humanitarian agencies to displaced residents after Israeli forces demolished and confiscated and demolished 46 residential structures on 2/1 and 2/3. Israeli forces also demolished 1 water well in al-Mughayyir and 2 residential structures in Khirbet Yarza. Elsewhere, Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinian protesters demonstrating against stop-work orders delivered in al-Twana, leading to tear-gas related injuries. Israeli forces also shot and injured 1 Palestinian with live ammunition during a late-night raid near Jenin. Meanwhile, Israeli forces shot and injured 1 Palestinian trying to enter Israel for work near the separation barrier in Barta‘a. 14 Palestinians were arrested, including 13 during late-night raids in and around Jalazun refugee camp, Hebron, Nablus, Qabatiya, and al-Bireh, and 1 was arrested at a checkpoint near Nablus. In East Jerusalem, 4 Palestinian citizens of Israel were arrested at the Haram al-Sharif compound. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire on Palestinian famers east of Gaza City and Khan Yunis; no injuries were reported. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 2/8; CNN 2/10 PCHR 2/11)

PA and Hamas officials and members of 12 other Palestinian factions met in Cairo to discuss reconciliation and the Palestinian elections. (AJ, REU, WAFA, WAFA 2/8)

A Palestinian court in Nablus sentenced 1 Palestinian man to 5 years in prison for selling Israeli settlement products. (WAFA 2/8)

Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu pleaded not guilty in response to the corruption charges against him in an Israeli court. Prime Minister Netanyahu was forced to appear in court but left after 30 minutes as the judges excused his absence. (REU 2/7; AJ, AP, AX, CBS, CNN, HA, WP 2/8)

The U.S. said it will rejoin the UN Human Rights Council as an observer after the Donald Trump administration left the UN body, citing anti-Israel bias in 2018. The Biden administration wants to rejoin as a full member at an unset date. (NYT 2/7; TOI 2/8)

In an interview with CNN, U.S. secretary of state Antony Blinken said he applauded the normalization deals between Israel, the U.S., the UAE, Bahrain, Morocco, and Sudan, and said that peace between Palestine and Israel is far away, saying the 2 need to engage in peace before the U.S. can get involved. Secretary Blinken also said the Biden administration supported a 2-state solution but when asked about whether a Palestinian state would have East Jerusalem as its capital, he said it was part of final status issues, despite saying the U.S. considers Israel’s capital Jerusalem. Former secretary of state John Kerry said the U.S. supports East Jerusalem as a future capital of Palestine during the Barack Obama administration. Lastly, Secretary Blinken said that the Biden administration would consider supporting the return of the Golan Heights to Syria if Bashar al-Asad was no longer in power. (HA, REU, State Department 2/8; HA 2/9; AJ 2/11)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers threw stones at vehicles and houses in Sarta and threw stones at Palestinian-owned vehicles traveling near Rawabi. Israeli settlers also razed Palestinian-owned agricultural land in Khirbet al-Farisiyya. Israeli forces punitively razed agricultural lands in Dayr Nidham after an Israeli settler was injured by a stone-thrower on 1/3. Israeli forces also blocked all entrances and exits to Dayr Nidham for the 2d day in a row. Elsewhere, Israeli forces shot and injured 3 Palestinians, including 2 with live ammunition and 1 with a rubber-coated bullet in ‘Aqabat Jabir during a raid; others suffered tear-gas related injuries. Israeli forces also raided a hospital in Tulkarm, firing stun grenades. Meanwhile, Israeli forces shot and injured 3 Palestinians trying to enter Israel for work by the separation barrier west of Ya‘bad. Israeli forces also demolished 1 agricultural structure in al-Khadir and demolished 1 agricultural structure, 1 water well, and 6 fences in Anabta. 9 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in and around Hebron, Surayf, Nablus, Bethlehem, and Jericho. In East Jerusalem, Israeli settlers made roadblocks and vandalized Palestinian-owned cars near the Old City. 6 Palestinians were arrested in the Old City and al-Tur. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire on Palestinian agricultural lands east of al-Maghazi, Bayt Hanun, and al-Bureij; no injuries were reported. Off the coast of Gaza, Israeli naval forces opened fire on Palestinian fishermen within 3 nautical miles of Bayt Lahiya; no injuries were reported. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 1/4; PCHR 1/7)

Iranian forces seized a South Korean tanker headed to the UAE from Saudi Arabia. An Iranian government official also said that Iran had resumed 20% uranium enrichment at the Fordow nuclear facility. (AJ, HA, HA, REU, REU, REU 1/4; HA 1/10)

Ahead of the Gulf Cooperation Council summit on 1/5, Saudi Arabia reopened its land border with Qatar, and Kuwait reopened air space and sea borders to the country. This comes after a 3.5-year dispute between Qatar and Egypt, the UAE, Bahrain, and Saudi Arabia, where the quartet of countries claimed that Qatar is sponsoring terrorism, an allegation Qatar has denied. (AJ, ALM 1/4)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces seized 1 tractor and 1 other vehicle in al-Maleh in the Jordan Valley and delivered stop-work orders for 14 structures south of Hebron. 7 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in and around Nablus, al-‘Arub refugee camp, Tulkarm, and Hebron. In East Jerusalem, the Israeli municipality demolished a wall next to the staircase leading to the Haram al-Sharif compound that was demolished on 11/29. 1 Palestinian was arrested in the Old City. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire on Palestinian shepherds east of Bayt Hanun; no injuries were reported. Israeli forces also fired an artillery shell at an uninhabited Palestinian house east of Gaza City, causing extensive damage but no injuries. (WAFA, WAFA 12/14; PCHR 12/17)

PA president Mahmoud Abbas met with Qatari emir Shaykh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani in Doha. (AJ, TOI 12/15)

Hamas denied Israeli reports that Israel and Hamas are progressing in talks of a prisoner swap. 1 Hamas spokesperson said that the reports were a ploy by Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu to bolster his position as new Israeli elections loom. (HA 12/14; JP, TOI 12/15)

For the 1st time, Iranian president Hassan Rouhani directly accused Israel of assassinating the Iranian nuclear scientist Mohsen Fakrizadeh on 11/27. Other Iranian officials have accused Israel of carrying out the assassination and it is the general perception among major news outlets that Israel was behind it. (HA 12/14)

Moroccan police prevented pro-Palestinian activists from protesting the country’s normalization deal with Israel. Riot police with water cannons blocked the entrances to the square that the activists were trying to reach in Rabat. (HA 12/14; MEE 12/15)

The U.S. formally removed Sudan from its list of state sponsors of terror after a 45-day congressional reviewing period that started after U.S. president Donald Trump announced the country would be removed from the list as part of its normalization deal with Israel. (AJ, HA, REU 12/14)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces shot and injured 1 Palestinian near the separation wall west of Jenin. Israeli forces also violently dispersed Palestinians protesting in Kafr Qaddum; 2 were injured by rubber-coated bullets. Elsewhere, Israeli forces and Palestinians clashed during raids in al-‘Arub refugee camp, leading to tear-gas related injuries. 3 Palestinians were arrested in and around Anata, Hebron, and Bethlehem. Off the coast of Gaza, Israeli naval forces opened fire at Palestinian fishermen 1 nautical mile west of Bayt Lahiya; 1 Palestinian was lightly injured by 1 rubber-coated bullet. (WAFA 11/7; PCHR 11/12)

For the 20th Saturday in a row, thousands of Israelis protested prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu outside of his official residence and throughout Israel. (HA, WAFA 11/7)

Lebanese president Michel Aoun asked the Lebanese foreign ministry to retrieve evidence of U.S. claims against Christian politician Gibran Bassil after the U.S. put sanctions on him on 11/6. Bassil is also President Aoun’s son-in-law. (HA, HA, REU 11/7)

All major news outlets called the 2020 U.S. presidential election for Joe Biden after 5 days of vote counting. It took news outlets longer to call the 2020 president election because of the large amounts of mail-in ballots cast due to the COVID-19 pandemic. U.S. president Donald Trump refused to concede the elections, making unsubstantiated allegations of voter fraud. (AP, NYT 11/7; CNN, NYT, REU 11/8; WAFA 11/9; WP 11/12)

In the West Bank, Palestinians fended off Israeli settlers trying to seize their land in Birin. Israeli forces shot and injured 1 Palestinian using live ammunition near the separation wall north of Jenin. 5 Palestinians were arrested, including 4 during late-night raids in Nablus, Anata, Kisan, and Hebron; 1 was arrested by undercover Israeli forces while working at a gas station near Kafr Qaddum. In East Jerusalem, 2 Palestinians started demolishing their own homes to avoid exorbitant Israeli demolition fees. Israeli forces summoned 3 members of Fatah for interrogation in Silwan. (WAFA, WAFA 8/31; PCHR 9/3)

Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar announced that Hamas and Israel had reached an understanding to de-escalate the conflict after nearly a month of daily attacks on Gaza and incendiary balloons launched toward Israel. The understanding was facilitated by Qatari mediators. As part of the de-escalation, the Kerem Shalom border crossing would be reopened on 9/1 and the fishing zone would be reopened up to 15 nautical miles. Sources in Hamas told Haaretz that Israel would allow Qatari aid to enter Gaza again, and that Qatar was granted approval by Israel to build a gas pipeline and operate a power station in Gaza. (AJ 8/31; HA 9/1)

A delegation of senior Israeli and U.S. officials arrived in the UAE to discuss the details of the UAE’s normalization deal with Israel. The delegation arrived in the UAE on an El Al plane flying directly from Tel Aviv to Abu Dhabi using Saudi Arabian airspace. In Israel, prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu said at a press conference that he would discuss sales of U.S. F-35s and other advanced weaponry to the UAE with U.S. president Donald Trump while stressing that U.S. sales of weapons to the UAE was not part of the normalization deal. In a joint statement released by the 3 parties, the language between the English and Arabic releases differed on Israel’s commitment not to annex parts of the West Bank as part of the normalization deal. In the Arabic version it said the agreement had “stopped” Israel’s plans while the English said it had led to “the suspension of Israel’s plans to extend sovereignty.” (HA, REU 8/31; AJ 9/1; REU 9/2)

Syrian officials said that Israel fired missiles at military installments south of Damascus, killing 2 Syrian soldiers and wounding 7. The London-based Syrian Observatory of Human Rights later said that the number of deaths was 10, most of them foreign. (HA 8/31; HA 9/1)

A former Lebanese ambassador to Germany Mustapha Adib was announced as the new prime minister of Lebanon after the government resigned earlier this month. The announcement came as French president Emmanuel Macron was en route for Beirut. Reuters reported that Adib was President Macron’s preferred choice. (AJ, HA 8/31)

In the West Bank, 1 Palestinian was shot and injured by Israeli forces near the separation wall adjacent to Jenin. Israeli forces handed demolition notices for 3 houses and 2 houses under construction, and 5 others received stop-work orders for the houses in Nahalin. 17 Palestinians were arrested during raids in and around Ramallah, Burin, Madama, Tulkarm, and Jenin; tear-gas related injuries were reported during a raid in Hebron. In East Jerusalem, 1 Palestinian family demolished their own home to avoid exorbitant Israeli demolition fees in Sur Bahir, displacing 11 people. 7 Palestinians were arrested during raids. In Gaza, Israeli forces attacked buildings and infrastructure east of Khan Yunis, causing damage. Hamas authorities extended the COVID-19-related lockdown until 8/29. According to Gaza health officials, 26 people have tested positive and 2 people have died of the virus. In Israel, 1 Israeli was stabbed to death in Petah Tikva; Israeli police arrested 1 Palestinian from Nablus who they investigated as the perpetrator. (HA 8/25; BBC, HA, REU, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 8/26; HA, PCHR 8/27)

The Prisoner’s Affairs Commission reported that several Palestinians in Ofer prison have tested positive for COVID-19. (WAFA 8/26)

Israeli forces attacked Hezbollah infrastructure in Lebanon, claiming that shots were fired from Lebanon toward Israeli troops the day before. Lebanon’s supreme defense council said it would file a complaint to the UN. Earlier in the day, Israel had proposed changes to the UNIFIL mandate, which Lebanon rejected. (HA, REU 8/25; HA, HA 8/26; LT 8/27)

U.S. secretary of state Mike Pompeo met with senior members of the royal family in Bahrain to discuss “the importance of building regional peace and stability,” including normalizing ties between Bahrain and Israel. According to Bahrain state news, King Hamad bin Isa al-Khalifa told Pompeo that Bahrain is committed to the Arab Peace Initiative and the creation of a Palestinian state before normalizing relations with Israel. Later, Secretary Pompeo met with senior officials in the UAE to discuss, among other subjects, the sale of F-35 fighter jets to the UAE. (AJ, HA, HA, REU 8/26)

China donated personal protective equipment to UNRWA to help fight against the spread of COVID-19. (WAFA 8/26)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers uprooted dozens of olive saplings in Asira. Israeli forces shot and injured 2 Palestinians using live ammunition as they were trying to enter Israel using a gate in the separation wall. Israeli forces and Palestinians clashed in Hebron, leading to tear-gas related injuries. Israeli forces also violently dispersed a protest in Kafr Qaddum, injuring 2 Palestinians with rubber-coated bullets. 1 Palestinian was arrested during a late-night raid in Jenin refugee camp. In Gaza, 5 Palestinians were injured by Israeli forces using live ammunition and rubber-coated bullets by the Gaza fence as some 300 Palestinians protested. Israel and militants in Gaza exchanged rockets; 4 Palestinians were injured, including 2 minors and 2 women, in al-Bureij, and extensive damage was reported in and around Khan Yunis; 2 houses in Sderot in Israel were damaged. In Israel, protesters continued to demand Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s resignation outside of his official residence. (BBC, HA, WAFA, WAFA 8/15; AJ, HA, HA , WAFA 8/16; PCHR 8/19)

The king of Bahrain Hamad bin Isa al-Khalifa congratulated the UAE on its deal to normalize ties with Israel. White House officials said on 8/13 that Bahrain and Oman would be the next countries to normalize ties with Israel. (HA 8/15)

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 settlers chopped down 40 olive trees in al-Mughayyir. Israeli forces raided Qalqilya, leading to confrontations with Palestinians; no injuries were reported. Nearby, in Kafr Qaddum, Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinian protesters; 1 Palestinian was injured by a rubber-coated bullet. Israeli forces also opened fire on Palestinians seeking to enter Israel by the separation wall near Tulkarm; 1 Palestinian was injured by live ammunition. 2 Palestinians were arrested, including 1 at a checkpoint in Hebron and 1 during a house raid in Balata refugee camp. In East Jerusalem, 2 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in the Old City. (WAFA, WAFA 5/9; PCHR 5/14)

The Washington Post reported that Israel was behind a cyber attack against Iran, which caused disruption at waterways and roads leading to the Shahid Rajaee port. The attack was allegedly retaliation to a cyber attack that Israel believes was carried out by Iran against Israel in April. (REU 5/18; AJ, HA 5/19)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces shot and injured 1 Palestinian at a cemetery in ‘Aqabat Jabir refugee camp during clashes after a raid; Palestinians had allegedly thrown Molotov cocktails and stones at the Israeli forces. Israeli forces also shot and injured 1 Palestinian using rubber-coated bullets near the separation wall in Far‘un. Elsewhere, Israeli forces handed demolition orders for 2 houses near Salfit. 3 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in ‘Azun. In East Jerusalem, 7 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in Issawiyya. Israeli forces clashed with Palestinians during a raid in al-Tur, leading to tear-gas related injuries. (WAFA, WAFA 5/3; WAFA 5/4; PCHR 5/7)

Israel’s defense minister Naftali Bennett approved changes to the structure of the al-Ibrahimi Mosque/ Tomb of the Patriarchs without approval from the Hebron municipality, which violates the Oslo Accords. (HA, WAFA 5/4)

The PA and Israel agreed to reopen some crossings between Israel and the West Bank to allow Palestinian workers to go to Israel. The crossings are scheduled to be open 5/3 and 5/4. (AJ 5/3)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers attacked 1 Palestinian shepherd and stole 2 sheep south of Hebron. Israeli forces injured 1 Palestinian man with live ammunition by the separation wall north of Qalqilya. Israeli forces also delivered 1 demolition order for a house under construction in al-Khadir. 9 Palestinians were arrested, including 8 during late-night raids in and around Nahalin, Ya‘bad, Far‘un, and Hebron; 1 was shot and injured before being arrested near Taqqua after allegedly throwing stones at settler vehicles. During a separate raid in Kobar, 1 Palestinian was injured by live ammunition. In East Jerusalem, 1 Palestinian woman from Silwan died of the COVID-19 virus; she is the 2d Palestinian to succumb to the virus in East Jerusalem. Israel ordered PA police not to enter Kafr ‘Aqab, which is located within East Jerusalem but on the West Bank side of the separation wall, after local activists requested the PA police to help enforce a lockdown. Israel has not been helping local authorities impose the lockdown. Off the coast of Gaza, Israeli naval forces opened fire on Palestinian fishermen, injuring 1 with a rubber-coated bullet to his head and damaging 1 boat. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire on Palestinian farmers near Khuza‘a and made incursions to level land east of Jabalia. Hamas authorities sentenced a man who escaped a COVID-19 quarantine facility to 6 months in prison and a fine of $700. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 4/21; HA 4/22; PCHR, REU 4/23)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces razed some 400 dunams (99 acres) of farmland land in Bayt Umar in preparation for paving a settler-only road. Israeli forces also fired tear gas near a school in Hebron, causing tear-gas related injuries among teachers and students. Elsewhere, Israeli forces shot and injured a Palestinian by the separation wall near Jenin as he was trying to enter Israel. Israeli forces also arrested 4 Palestinians during raids in and around Hebron, Bethlehem, and Tulkarm. In East Jerusalem, PA Jerusalem affairs minister Fadi Hidmi was arrested for the 3d time this year during a late-night raid in Silwan. Israeli forces also arrested 3 other Palestinians during raids in the Old City. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire on Palestinian agricultural lands east of Khuza‘a; no injuries were reported. In Israel, leaders of Palestinian citizens of Israel began a 3-day hunger strike to protest Israeli authorities’ inaction against violence in the communities. This year, 79 Palestinian citizens of Israel have been killed in intracommunal violence. (HA, HA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 11/3; PCHR 11/7)