The Palestine Chronology

In the West Bank, the IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 2 villages nr. Nablus, in 1 village and al-Fawar r.c. nr. Hebron, and in Tulkarm at night; patrols in 1 village and al- ‘Arub r.c. nr. Nablus and 1 village nr. Tulkarm at night. (PCHR 11/7)

U.S. Secy. of State Kerry meets Palestinian pres. Abbas in Bethlehem and subsequently urges Israel to limit settlement construction. Kerry affirms that the position of the U.S. is that the settlements are “illegitimate,” and also announces a contribution of $75 million in aid to the Palestinians, with a focus on job creation. Both before and after the talks with Abbas, Kerry meets Netanyahu where the Israeli PM accuses Palestinians of creating “artificial crises.” (AFP, AP, JP, REU 11/6)

Yisrael Beitainu leader Avigdor Lieberman is acquitted of corruption charges, with Netanyahu quickly congratulating him and welcoming him back to the govt. It is expected that Lieberman will resume his position as FM next week. (JP, REU 11/6)

Widow of Yasir Arafat, Suha Arafat, says her late husband was poisoned with radioactive plutonium, after she receives the results of Swiss forensic tests conducted on the Palestinian leader’s corpse. (REU 11/6)

National Security Council spokesperson Bernadette Meehan announces that the Obama administration will look to a “phased approach” in relation to the negotiations with Iran over its nuclear program, offering “limited and reversible” sanctions relief in exchange for steps being taken by Tehran. (HA 11/7)

In the West Bank, the IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 1 village each nr. Hebron, Jenin, Jerusalem, Nablus, and Ramallah at night; patrols in 1 village nr. Hebron at night. (PCHR 11/7)

Israel issues tenders for the construction of more than 1,700 homes, shortly ahead of a visit by U.S. Secy. of State Kerry. The tenders are part of 3,500 homes whose planned construction was announced after the latest prisoner release. The tenders are for homes in East Jerusalem settlements Ramat Shlomo and Gilo, as well as West Bank settlements like Elkana, Ma’ale Adumim, and Beitar Ilit. There is also 196 homes planned for Karnei Shomron, a settlement outside the “blocs” Israel expects to keep in any future deal. Separately, Israeli media report that PM Netanyahu intends to build a separation barrier between the West Bank and Jordan, as part of the govt.’s plans to maintain an Israeli presence in the Jordan Valley. Responding to developments, Pres. Abbas spokesperson Abu Rudayna says that the decision to build a fence along the border with Jordan is aimed at undermining Kerry’s upcoming mission, while PLO mbr. Wassel Abu Yousef slams the settlement tenders and says the PLO is considering how to get UN action against these decisions. Kerry, in Egypt, responds to a question at a press conference with FM Nabil Fahmy by saying that settlement construction disturbs “people’s perceptions of whether . . . we’re moving in the right direction.” (AFP, JP, MNA, REU, ToI 11/3)

U.S. Undersecy. of State for Political Affairs Wendy Sherman assures Israel that Obama has not offered any sanctions relief to Iran and that Israeli security is a priority of the administration. Speaking to Israeli television, Sherman says that the U.S. may offer temporary, limited sanctions relief as part of the diplomatic process while leaving core oil and banking sanctions in place. (HA, JP 11/3)

In Egypt, U.S. Secy. of State John Kerry expresses optimism about a return to democracy, and describes Cairo as a vital partner of Washington. Unnamed senior State Dept. officials say that Kerry did not discuss ousted pres. Morsi’s trial in meetings with Pres. Adly Mansour and Gen. Abdel Fattah al-Sisi. (REU 11/3)

In the Gaza Strip, the Popular Resistance Cmte. and PFLP claim responsibility for several rockets and mortar shells fired into s. Israel and at Israeli military positions nr. Khan Yunis. However, the Israeli army says that no rockets landed in Israeli territory. In the West Bank, the IDF patrols in 1 village nr. Hebron in the afternoon and 1 village nr. Hebron at night. IDF troops violently disperse Palestinian, Israeli, and international protesters at weekly demonstrations against Israel’s separation wall, settlements, and occupation in 3 villages nr. Ramallah (Bil‘in, Nabi Salih, and Ni‘lin), 1 village nr. Qalqilya (Kafr Qaddum), and 1 village nr. Bethlehem (al-Ma‘sara). There are no serious injuries, except in Bil‘in (3 injured with live ammunition) and Nabi Salih (1 injured with a rubber-coated metal bullet). In East Jerusalem, municipal officials and security forces distribute demolishing orders for dozens of apartments in Ras Khamis and Ras Shahada. At the entrance to Shu‘fat r.c., protests by Palestinians against demolitions are violently dispersed by IDF troops. (MNA 11/1; PCHR 11/7)

The Gaza Strip’s sole power plant shuts its generators due to fuel shortage, meaning that Palestinians could experience 12 hours of daily blackouts. Fuel supplies have diminished following an Egyptian crackdown on smuggling tunnels, and the inability of the authorities in Gaza to pay for PA-delivered fuel with an imposed tax, according to chair of the Gaza Energy Authority, Fathy Asheik-Khalil. The plant produces up to 65 megawatts, while Israel supplies the Gaza Strip with a further 120 and Egypt with 27. (MNA, REU 11/1)

Unnamed Israeli officials cited by Israeli media express anger at the White House for confirming that it was the IAF which attacked a Syrian military base nr. Latakia. The Israeli govt. typically refrains from officially acknowledging responsibility for such attacks. However, M Gilad Erdan tells the media that Israel will not allow advanced weapons to be transferred to Hizballah. (REU, ToI 11/1)

Thousands of pro-Muslim Brotherhood supporters march in the streets in Cairo ahead of the anticipated trial of ousted pres. Morsi. In Alexandria, police break up clashes between pro- and anti-Brotherhood protesters. (AP 11/1)

In the Gaza Strip, the IDF kills 4 mbrs. of Izzeddin al-Qassam Brigades in 2 separate incidents. First, IDF troops working to close a tunnel on both sides of the border are targeted by an explosion, wounding 5 soldiers. Returning fire, they kill 1 Palestinian. Subsequently, the Israeli Air Force (IAF) bombs another tunnel, killing 3 Palestinians who were inside. In addition, IDF troops along the border nr. Jabaliya r.c. open fire on an open area, causing no damage or injuries. In the West Bank, Palestinian gunmen open fire on a settler vehicle close to Hawara checkpoint nr. Nablus, causing no injuries. The IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 2 villages nr. Hebron and 1 village each nr. Nablus and Jenin at night; patrols in 2 villages each nr. Hebron and Jenin and 1 village nr. Ramallah in the afternoon. Jewish settlers vandalize around 300 olive trees nr. Qalqilya. Meanwhile, suspected Jewish settlers attack a Palestinian truck driver, as well as 2 Israeli soldiers at the entrance to Bet Ayn settlement. (HA, MNA ToI, YA 10/31; PCHR 11/7)

Reports emerge that Palestinian negotiators Saeb Erakat and Mohammed Shtayyeh have handed in their resignation letters to PA Pres. Abbas, in response to what the 2 describe as Israel’s lack of commitment to the peace process. However, PLO official Wassel Abu Yousef denies that any such resignation had taken place. At a meeting of the PLO executive cmte, Abbas says that the Palestinian leadership will take steps in response to Israeli settlement construction, but without specifying exactly what. (HA, JP, MNA, ToI 10/31)

The IAF attacks a shipment of missiles located at a Syrian military base, a strike confirmed by an anonymous Obama administration official. The air strike targets missiles at a base nr. Latakia thought to be en route to Hizballah. Meanwhile, the OPCW announces that Syria has met a deadline in the internationally mandated disarmament program, with equipment and production facilities rendered inoperable. (AP, REU 10/31)

U.S. VP Joe Biden and other administration officials work to convince lawmakers to hold off from passing further sanctions targeting Iran, to let the current efforts to secure a negotiated solution have some breathing space. Comments by sens. emerging from the private briefing with Senate Democratic leaders and Republican and Democratic mbrs. of the Senate Banking Cmte. indicate that the Obama administration had done enough to convince many of the need to wait. (AP, REU 10/31)

In the West Bank, the IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 2 villages each nr. Hebron and Ramallah and 1 village nr. Jenin at night; patrols in 1 village nr. Ramallah in the morning, in 1 village each nr. Hebron and Jenin in the afternoon, and in 4 villages nr. Ramallah, and 1 village each nr. Jenin and Qalqilya at night. Jewish settlers attack Palestinian farmers nr. Ramallah, injuring 1. Separately, Jewish settlers set fire to around 70 olive trees nr. Bethlehem. (PCHR 10/31)

Egyptian security forces detain dozens of suspected Islamist militants in Sinai villages in the al-Arish area, also confiscating weapons, explosives, and other equipment. Meanwhile, the United Arab Emirates announces that it is increasing its aid to Egypt’s interim govt. to a total of $4.9 billion in new loans, fuel supplies, and other forms of assistance. (AP, MNA 10/26)

In the Gaza Strip, unidentified suspects plan explosives on a car of a Popular Resistance Cmte. leader, but the car blows up without causing injuries. In the n. West Bank, a Palestinian throws an improvised explosive device at an Israeli settler bus nr. Ya‘bad village, causing no injuries. The IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 1 village each nr. Bethlehem, Hebron, Jenin and Salfit at night; patrols in 1 village nr. Hebron in the afternoon and in 1 village nr. Hebron at night. Jewish settlers vandalize more than 30 olive trees nr. Nablus. IDF troops violently disperse Palestinian, Israeli, and international protesters at weekly demonstrations against Israel’s separation wall, settlements, and occupation in 3 villages nr. Ramallah (Bil‘in, Nabi Salih, and Ni‘lin), 1 village nr. Qalqilya (Kafr Qaddum), and 1 village nr. Bethlehem (al-Ma‘sara). There are no serious injuries, except in Bil‘in where 1 person is injured by a rubber-coated metal bullet, and in Kafr Qaddum, where 2 are struck by tear gas canisters. (MNA 10/25; PCHR 10/31)

Thousands of supporters of ousted pres. Morsi march in Cairo, ahead of his expected court appearance on 11/4. There are clashes in Alexandria and Suez, where police disperse crowds with tear gas. (AP, REU 10/25)

In the Gaza Strip, IDF troops open fire on Palestinian fishermen nr. Bayt Lahiya, causing no damage or injuries. IDF troops also conduct a limited incursion nr. al-Maghazi in c. Gaza to level land, before withdrawing. In the West Bank, the IDF patrols in 1 village each nr. Jericho and Qalqilya in the afternoon, and in Tulkarm and 1 nearby village, and 1 village each nr. Hebron, Jenin and Ramallah at night. Jewish settlers attack farmers in Burin village nr. Nablus, injuring 1. In East Jerusalem, Jewish right-wing extremists escorted by Israeli police tour the al-Aqsa compound. (MNA 10/24; PCHR 10/31)

An unnamed Israeli official confirms that the govt. will press ahead with plans to build in the so-called settlement blocs and East Jerusalem, claiming that such construction is in accordance with agreements reached as talks recommended. Meanwhile, the Financial Times reports that the PA has sent letters to 50 countries urging them to clamp down on companies doing business with West Bank settlements, citing an unnamed Palestinian official. (HA, FT, REU 10/24)

The White House hosts a meeting of Senate cmte. leaders’ aides as part of a drive to get new sanctions targeting Iran delayed. At the same time, dep. national security adviser to Pres. Obama Ben Rhodes tells a conference in Washington that the U.S. will not be easing sanctions until Tehran takes “concrete steps.” (REU 10/24)

Gunmen kill an Egyptian policeman in al-Arish, while separately, an explosive device injures 2 border guards nr. Rafah. (MNA 10/24)

In the West Bank, the IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 1 village each nr. Bethlehem, Hebron, Jenin and Qalqilya; patrols in Tulkarm in the morning, and in Jericho and 1 village and al-‘Arub r.c. nr. Hebron at night. Jewish settlers attack a Palestinian family home in Burin village nr. Nablus, causing no serious damage or injuries. (MNA 10/23; PCHR 10/24)

Palestinian pres. Abbas meets with European Council pres. Herman van Rompuy in Brussels and demands that European companies end all business with settlements. Meanwhile, speaking to a German newspaper, Abbas says that the lack of progress in negotiations is in part due to Netanyahu’s insistence on starting from scratch. Meanwhile, Arab League spokesperson Nasif Hata emerges from a meeting in Paris with U.S. Secy. of State Kerry to say that the body is not optimistic about the renewed peace talks. (AFP, AP, JP 10/23)

U.S. Secy. of State Kerry holds extensive talks with Israeli PM Netanyahu in Rome, with discussions focusing on the peace process, Iran, and Syria. Kerry is particularly keen to seek answers from Netanyahu on Israel’s positions vis-à -vis a final settlement with the Palestinians, during 7 hours of talks. Since negotiations began on 7/29, 13 Israeli-Palestinian meetings have taken place, 3 of them in the previous 5 days. (HA, REU 10/23)

In Lebanon, 3 days of fighting in Tripoli between supporters and opponents of Syrian pres. Asad have killed 2 and wounded 33. (AFP 10/23)

In the Gaza Strip, IDF troops conduct 2 separate limited incursions to level land close to the border fence nr. Bayt Hanun and Khan Yunis. In the West Bank, IDF troops kill 1 armed Palestinian after he sought refuge in a cave nr. Bayt Liqya village, a man wanted for his alleged role in an attack on an Israeli bus during “Operation Pillar of Defense” in 11/2012. In addition, a Palestinian run over by a settler car in Qalqilya on 10/15 dies in hospital from his injuries. The IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 1 village and al-‘Arub r.c. nr. Hebron at night; patrols in 1 village nr. Tulkarm in the morning, and in Hebron and 3 nearby villages at night. In Qabatya nr. Jenin, IDF troops set up a flying checkpoint at the entrance to the village where around 20 soldiers check IDs and inspect vehicles. Residents throw stones and soldiers fire tear gas, causing no reported injuries. Also in the West Bank, IDF troops temporarily displace 17 families in the n. Jordan Valley on the basis of conducting military drills. Jewish settlers nr. Bethlehem uproot 80 olive seedlings, and other settlers nr. Bethlehem pump sewage water on agricultural lands, while in a further separate incident nr. Bethlehem, settlers throw stones at Palestinian vehicles, causing minor damage. Settlers nr. Qalqilya uproot more than 50 olive trees, while separately, settlers from Yitzhar assault a Palestinian farmer from Burin village nr. Nablus. (MNA 10/22; PCHR 10/24)

PA Pres. Abbas warns that the Palestinians will not accept Israeli control over a border with Jordan and that it could be a deal breaker. Speaking on a visit to Lithuania, Abbas also praises EU demands that Israel stops settlement construction. (AFP 10/23)

Reps. of 11 countries from the “Friends of Syria” group meet in London to encourage the Syrian opposition to join talks under the proposed “Geneva 2” framework. However, SNC head Ahmed Jarba tells a news conference following the meeting that their conditions included the impossibility of Asad being allowed to remain in power. The SNC says it will continue internal discussions about whether or not to attend the proposed peace conference. (REU 10/22)

In the Gaza Strip, IDF troops conduct a limited incursion nr. Dayr al-Balah to level land close to the border fence. In the West Bank, the IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 1 village nr. Hebron and Nablus at night; patrols in 1 village nr. Jericho in the morning, in 1 village nr. Qalqilya in the afternoon, and in 2 villages nr. Hebron, 1 village nr. Ramallah, Qalqilya and Tulkarm at night. Unknown assailants throw a petrol bomb at a Jewish settler’s car nr. Nablus, causing no injuries. (MNA 10/20; PCHR 10/24)

Hamas’s armed wing Izzeddin al-Qassam Brigades claims direct responsibility for digging the tunnel under the Gaza-Israel border recently exposed by the IDF. Meanwhile, Israeli authorities open Kerem Shalom border crossing for truckloads of imports including commercial commodities and limited amounts of fuel and gas for domestic use. Construction material is not part of the consignment. (MNA, REU 10/20)

Journalists demonstrate in Ramallah to demand the reopening of the Gaza Strip offices of Ma’an News Agency and Al-Arabiya, which have been shut since the summer. Meanwhile, the PA Public Workers’ Union announces a general strike to begin on Wednesday in all govt. offices in the West Bank, due to an industrial dispute about rising living costs requiring a commensurate increase in wages. (MNA 10/12)

Gunmen shoot dead 3 people including a child outside a Coptic church in Cairo, opening fire on congregation mbrs. as they leave the church. In the Sinai, gunmen attack Egyptian security forces nr. Shaykh Zuweid in the Sinai, injuring 3. Meanwhile, some 3,000 student supporters of ousted pres. Morsi protest in Al-Azhar University, with security forces using tear gas to disperse demonstrators and arresting 11. (AFP, AP, MNA, REU 10/20)

In the West Bank, IDF troops shoot and injure 1 Palestinian nr. Hebron with live ammunition, as he was reportedly seen “damaging the security fence” (according to Israeli military sources). The IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in Bethlehem and 1 nearby village and Dahaysha r.c., 2 villages nr. Hebron, and 1 village each nr. Qalqilya, Ramallah and Tulkarm at night. Jewish settlers chop down more than 100 olive trees nr. Nablus. (MNA 10/19; PCHR 10/24)

PA Pres. Mahmud Abbas tells German television that despite the reports, the negotiations with Israel have not reached a dead end. Asked whether a lack of Palestinian national unit complicated the possibility of reaching a deal, Abbas says he speaks for the entire Palestinian people. Meanwhile, Hamas PM Ismail Haniyeh calls for a “popular uprising” in the West Bank, and a renewal of resistance, as well as urging Palestinians to reject new negotiations with Israel for fear of jeopardizing the Palestinian issue. (MNA, ToI 12/19)

A suicide bomber blows himself up in a car in an Egyptian military intelligence facility nr. Ismailia and 2 other explosive-laden cars also detonate. The attack injures 4. (AFP, MNA 12/19)

Israeli media report that U.S. officials have told their Israeli counterparts that Iran made “no serious proposals” during the Geneva talks this past week, a verdict apparently echoed by British officials, too. (ToI 12/19)

In the West Bank, the IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 1 village each nr. Hebron and Qalqilya at night; patrols in 2 villages nr. Hebron and 1 village nr. Tulkarm at night. IDF troops violently disperse Palestinian, Israeli, and international protesters at weekly demonstrations against Israel’s separation wall, settlements, and occupation in 3 villages nr. Ramallah (Bil‘in, Nabi Salih, and Ni‘lin), and 1 village nr. Qalqilya (Kafr Qaddum). There are no serious injuries. (PCHR 10/24)

Saudi Arabia announces, via a Foreign Ministry statement, that it will decline to take up its seat on the UNSC in a show of frustration and anger at the body’s failure to take effective action with regard to the Syrian civil war and other Middle East issues. (REU 10/18)

In the West Bank, the IDF patrols in 1 village nr. Ramallah in the morning, in 1 village each nr. Hebron and Tulkarm in the afternoon, and in 1 village nr. Hebron at night. There are reports from locals that in Bayt Awa village nr. Hebron, Palestinians attacked Israeli watchtowers with stones and petrol bombs, where soldiers responded with tear gas grenades. Some 30 Jewish settlers attack a Palestinian vehicle nr. Nablus, whose driver managed to escape without injury. (MNA 10/14; PCHR 10/24)

The Obama administration is urged by U.S. lawmakers not to relieve the pressure on Iran, a day before a new round of P5+1 talks, in a letter signed by a group of 6 Democratic and 4 Republican sens. The sens. say they are open to suspending new sanctions only if Tehran takes significant steps in slowing its nuclear program. Signatories to the letter include Robert Menendez (D-NJ), chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Cmte., and Republicans John McCain and Lindsey Graham. (REU 10/14)

U.S. Secy. of State Kerry and UN envoy for Syria Lakhdar Brahimi tell reporters that an international conference to set up a transitional govt. must be organized and held urgently, in remarks following a meeting at the home of the U.S. amb. to Britain. (AP 10/14)

In the Gaza Strip, IDF troops open fire on Palestinian fishermen nr. Bayt Lahiya, causing no damage or injuries. In the West Bank, the IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 3 villages nr. Hebron at night; patrols in 3 villages and al-‘Arub r.c. nr. Hebron, 2 villages nr. Ramallah, and 1 village each nr. Jenin an Jericho at night. Jewish settlers attack residents of Susia village nr. Hebron while they were picking olives, injuring 3. (MNA, WAFA 10/12; PCHR 10/24)

Jenin gov. Talal Dweikat says that the Palestinian National Security Services have detained nearly 100 people in the n. West Bank as part of a drive to tackle disorder in light of a recent spate of protests and violent targeting of PA buildings. PA forces deployed in Jenin on 10/4 to crackdown on disorder that followed the killing of Islam al-Tubasi in 9/2013. (MNA 10/12)

Iran’s official news agency IRNA reports that Iranian FM Zarif will lead the nuclear negotiation team at a new round of talk with the P5+1 group on 10/15–16, but will only attend the opening session before handing over to Dep. FM Abbas Araqchi. The U.S. delegation is reportedly set to include Undersecy. of State Wendy Sherman—who will lead the team—as well as sanctions expert Adam Szubin, the director of the Treasury Dept.’s Office of Foreign Assets Control, or OFAC. Meanwhile, Israeli PM Netanyahu calls the leaders of France and Britain and urges them not to ease sanctions on Tehran, according to an Israeli govt. official. (AFP, AP, REU 10/12)

In the West Bank, the IDF patrols in 1 village nr. Hebron in the afternoon, and in 2 villages nr. Hebron and 1 village nr. Jericho at night. IDF troops violently disperse Palestinian, Israeli, and international protesters at weekly demonstrations against Israel’s separation wall, settlements, and occupation in 3 villages nr. Ramallah (Bil‘in, Nabi Salih, and Ni‘lin), 1 village nr. Qalqilya (Kafr Qaddum), and 1 village nr. Bethlehem (al-Ma‘sara). There are no serious injuries. (PCHR 10/24)

PA Pres. Abbas tells Palestinian television that the PA is considering an appeal to the UNSC in light of what he describes as “serious Israeli violations, especially in Jerusalem and at the Temple Mount.” Abbas also expresses concern that the PA would be unable to pay the salary for all its employees for 11/2013, without further international aid. (HA 10/11; MNA 10/12)

There are protests in Egypt as Muslim Brotherhood supporters continue to demonstrate against the military-backed interim govt. There is 1 reported death, in the Nile Delta province, with clashes also reported in Alexandria and Cairo. (REU 10/12)

In the Gaza Strip, the Israeli troops open fire on Palestinian fishermen nr. Bayt Lahiya, causing no damage or injuries. In the West Bank, an Israeli settler is killed and his wife wounded, when they are attacked by a Palestinian outside their home in the n. Jordan Valley. The IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 1 village nr. Hebron at night; patrols in 1 village nr. Jenin in the afternoon, and in 3 villages nr. Hebron, and 1 village each nr. Jenin, Ramallah and Tulkarm at night. Jewish settlers torch 3 Palestinian cars in Burqa village nr. Ramallah and leave racist graffiti on the wall of the mosque. In East Jerusalem, Jewish right-wing activists enter the al-Aqsa mosque compound to perform religious rituals. (MNA 10/10; REU, JP 10/11; PCHR 10/24)

Israel’s FM Yair Lapid meets with U.S. VP Joe Biden, Treasury Secy. Jack Lew and White House Middle East Coordinator Phil Gordon at the White House. The meeting focuses on developments regarding Iran, negotiations with the Palestinians, and the need to strengthen economic ties with the latter. (YA 10/11)

Speaking at a press conference in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, U.S. Secy. of State John Kerry says that the cuts in aid to Egypt will not have much impact in the country, that it is not a “withdrawal” from relations with Cairo, and that the aid could be restored should “credible progress” be made in restoring an inclusive govt. Egyptian military spokesperson Col. Ahmed Mohammed Ali declines to comment, but the Foreign Ministry calls the decision “flawed . . . in terms of content and timing.” Meanwhile, a suicide attack on a military checkpoint nr. al-Arish kills 4 soldiers and wounds 5 others. (AFP, AP, MNA, REU 10/10)

In the West Bank, the IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 1 village nr. Hebron at night; patrols in 1 village each nr. Hebron and Qalqilya in the afternoon, 3 villages nr. Hebron and 1 village nr. Qalqilya at night. In East Jerusalem, IDF troops open fire with live ammunition and rubber-coated metal bullets on Palestinian protesters in al-Ram, injuring 9.IDF troops violently disperse Palestinian, Israeli, and international protesters at weekly demonstrations against Israel’s separation wall, settlements, and occupation in 3 villages nr. Ramallah (Bil‘in, Nabi Salih, and Ni‘lin), 1 village nr. Qalqilya (Kafr Qaddum), and 1 village nr. Bethlehem (al-Ma‘sara). There are no serious injuries, except in Bil‘in where 4 are injured (2 by rubber-coated metal bullets and 2 by tear gas canisters). (MNA 10/4; PCHR 10/10)

PA Pres. Abbas meets with U.S. peace process envoy Martin Indyk in Ramallah, to discuss efforts to create a positive climate for the ongoing but stuttering peace talks. (JP 10/4)

Supporters of ousted pres. Morsi demonstrate attempt to march into Tahrir Square, Cairo, with the Egyptian military keeping them out with force, including live ammunition. Clashes in other neighborhoods kill at least 4. (AP, REU 10/4)

In the West Bank, IDF troops conduct 2 separate incursions nr. Khan Yunis and in the c. Gaza Strip to level land by the border fence. In the West Bank, the IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in Hebron, Nablus and ‘Ayn Bayt al-Ma’ r.c. and 2 nearby villages at night; patrols in 1 village each nr. Hebron and Jenin at night. Jewish settlers destroy 50 olive trees in the s. Hebron hills. In East Jerusalem, Palestinian activists drill a hole in the separation wall nr. Abu Dis. (MNA 10/3; PCHR 10/10)

Israeli and Palestinian negotiators meet for the 1st time after a hiatus of about 2 weeks, discussions attended by U.S. envoy Martin Indyk. (HA, REU, JTA 3/10)

In the Gaza Strip, Palestinians fire 1 rocket into s. Israel which causes no damage or injuries. In addition, Israeli troops fire upon a demonstration that approaches the border fence, as part of protests in solidarity with Palestinians facing restricted access to al-Aqsa mosque, injuring 5. In the West Bank, hundreds of Palestinians clash with Israeli troops as part of demonstrations marking the 13th anniversary of the 2d intifada. In al-Fawar r.c. nr. Hebron, the IDF opens fire with rubber-coated metal bullets, hitting a child and blinding her in 1 eye. In c. Hebron, more than 200 Palestinians throw stones at Israeli soldiers, who injure 23 Palestinians with live ammunition and rubber-coated metal bullets. There is also a protest outside Ofer prison nr. Ramallah, and in the Nablus area at Hawara checkpoint (where 1 person is injured with a rubber-coated metal bullet to the head). The IDF also conducts house searches and arrest raids in 1 village nr. Jenin and Hebron at night; patrols in 1 village nr. Ramallah in the morning, and in 2 villages nr. Ramallah at night. Jewish settlers set fire to 2 Palestinian vehicles nr. Beit El settlement n. of Ramallah. In East Jerusalem, Palestinian youths smash a hole in the separation wall in Abu Dis before Israeli forces arrive and violently disperse them. Outside the Old City nr. Damascus Gate, Palestinians throw stones at police officers. (JP, MNA, NYT 9/28; PCHR 10/3)

Diplomats from the Quartet meet on the sidelines of the UNGA in New York and issue a statement calling on both sides to take “every possible step” to make the current negotiations a success. Envoy Tony Blair says that the meeting heard of initiatives accompanying peace talks to boost the Palestinian economy. The Quartet reps. were also joined by Tzipi Livni and Saeb Erakat in their capacities as lead negotiators for their respective sides. (AP, JP 9/28)

The UNSC votes unanimously for a res. that will see Syria’s chemical weapons stockpile secured and destroyed. Kerry says that the res. shows diplomacy is able to “peacefully defuse the worst weapons of war,” adding that destruction of the arsenal will begin in 11/2013 and run through to mid-2014. The council also backs a road map for political transition in Syria, and calls for an international conference to be convened “as soon as possible.” (AP, ToI, REU 9/27)

U.S. Pres. Obama and Iranian pres. Ruhani speak on the telephone, the highest-level contact between the 2 countries since 1979. Obama, in comments at the White House, and Ruhani, via a Twitter account, said that both are committed to solving the nuclear issue. (REU 9/27)

In the West Bank, IDF troops open fire with rubber-coated bullets and stun grenades on stone-throwing Palestinians in Hebron. The IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 1 village each nr. Ramallah and Salfit at night; patrols in al-Bireh in the morning, and 1 village nr. Qalqilya and al-Fawar r.c. nr. Hebron at night. Jewish settlers destroy 20 dunams of land nr. Nablus, while separately, settlers set fire to dozens of olive trees also nr. Nablus. (AFP, MNA, PNN 9/23; PCHR 9/26)

IDF Chief of Staff Benny Gantz says that the killing of 2 Israeli soldiers in the last 3 days does not reflect a general trend, and that the 2 incidents are isolated and unrelated. The Israeli media reports disquiet from security sources about the performance of the PA’s security forces in light of the recent events. (HA 9/24)

An Egyptian court bans the activities of the Muslim Brotherhood as an NGO and orders its funds seized. U.S. State Dept. spokesperson Jen Psaki says that Washington will wait to see how such a decision will be implemented and urges all parties to embrace an inclusive political process. Egypt’s interim govt. subsequently says it is no rush to dismantle the Brotherhood and prefers for a ruling from a higher tribunal. (AP, REU 9/23; AP 9/24)

In the Gaza Strip, IDF troops open fire on Palestinians walking close to the border fence nr. Bayt Lahiya, wounding 2. In the West Bank, the IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 1 village nr. Qalqilya at night; patrols in 2 villages nr. Hebron, 1 village nr. Jericho and Jenin at night. IDF troops violently disperse Palestinian, Israeli, and international protesters at weekly demonstrations against Israel’s separation wall, settlements, and occupation in 3 villages nr. Ramallah (Bil‘in, Nabi Salih, and Ni‘lin), and 1 village nr. Qalqilya (Kafr Qaddum). There are no serious injuries, except in Kafr Qaddum, where 5 are injured (4 struck by tear gas canisters, including 1 international, and 1 hit by a live bullet). (MNA 9/20; PCHR 9/26)

An Arab-introduced res. at the IAEA’s annual conference in Vienna to censure Israel’s refusal to allow international oversight of its nuclear weapons is voted down 43–54–32 (and another 30 countries were absent during the vote). (AP 9/20)

The Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) says that Syria has given details of some of its arsenal but still needs to fill in the gaps by next week to satisfy the timetable proposed by the Russian-U.S. plan. (REU 9/20)

White House dep. spokesperson Josh Earnest says that the Obama administration is ready to engage in talks with Iran “on the basis of mutual respect” about the country’s nuclear program. (REU 9/20)

Egyptian police arrest some 87 wanted men in a village nr. Cairo, while separately, gunmen target 3 military vehicles in Rafah, injuring 3 soldiers. Security forces say they also arrested 15 Salafist militants in villages in the n. Sinai. (AFP, AP, MNA 9/20)

In the West Bank, the IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 1 village nr. Qalqilya in the morning; patrols in 1 village nr. Hebron in the afternoon, and in al-Fawar r.c. nr. Hebron and 1 village nr. Tulkarm at night. IDF troops violently disperse Palestinian, Israeli, and international protesters at weekly demonstrations against Israel’s separation wall, settlements, and occupation in 3 villages nr. Ramallah (Bil‘in, Nabi Salih, and Ni‘lin), and 1 village nr. Qalqilya (Kafr Qaddum). There are no serious injuries. (PCHR 9/19)

U.S. Secy. of State John Kerry and Russian FM Sergey Lavrov meet the UN’s Special Envoy on Syria Lakhdar Brahimi in Geneva, to discuss both plans for an international peace conference, as well as the more pressing question of a plan to neutralize Syria’s chemical weapons stockpile. Following the meeting, Brahimi says he hopes to have a 2d peace conference sometime in 10/2013. Meanwhile, the Syrian opposition National Coalition (SNC) says it will appoint a provisional PM to boost its international credibility, an announcement made on the 1st day of a meeting of the 115-mbr. group. (AP, REU 9/13)

There are clashes across Egypt between supporters and opponents of ousted pres. Morsi, while the military continues its offensive against Islamist militants in the Sinai Peninsula, where 3 soldiers are wounded in 3 separate villages. There are 2 reported deaths in Alexandria and Beni Suef, with demonstrations also taking place in Cairo among others. (AP, REU 9/13)

Iranian nuclear chief Ali Akbar Salehi announces that the country has reduced its stock of 20 percent-enriched uranium by converting it to reactor fuel, news judged to aimed at easing tensions with the West. (AP 9/13)

In the West Bank, the IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in Qalqilya and 1 village nr. Hebron at night; patrols in 1 village nr. Qalqilya at night. Jewish settlers from Beit El nr. Ramallah throw stones at Palestinian vehicles, while in a separate incident, settlers uproot some 40 Palestinian olive trees in the s. Hebron hills. In East Jerusalem, Jerusalem municipality-owned bulldozers level lands to make a trench between Issawiyya village and French Hill settlement, at the request of the latter’s residents. (MNA 9/9; PCHR 9/12)

Palestinian official Nabil Shaath tells the media that U.S. Secy. of State Kerry had “guaranteed us in writing” that talks would start from the 1967 lines, with State Dept. spokesperson Marie Harf subsequently denying such a document. (NYT 9/9)

The EU announces a €52 million assistance package to help PA development schemes, such as municipal infrastructure projects and private sector-led economic initiatives. The aid is the final part of the European Neighbourhood and Partnership Instrument assistance, with the total contributed to the Palestinians in 2013 now standing at €300 million. (MNA 9/9)

Russian FM Sergey Lavrov makes a statement calling for military action against Syria to be averted through a plan for the internationally coordinated destruction of Damascus’s chemical weapons’ arsenal. The dramatic intervention is welcomed as a possible breakthrough by Pres. Obama, who faces opposition in Congress and among the public to any U.S. military intervention. Democratic Senate leader Harry Reid postpones a scheduled test vote for lawmakers to assess the Russian plan. Syrian FM Walid Muallem welcomes the Russian proposal as a way of preventing “an American aggression.” (AFP, AP, REU 9/9)

The Egyptian military’s offensive in the Sinai continues, with security forces killing a further 9 militants and arresting 10 nr. Rafah. In 2 separate incidents in c. Sinai, gunmen open fire and wound 3 soldiers. In addition, Egyptian forces destroy 6 smuggling tunnels under the Egypt-Gaza border located n. of Rafah, with an Egyptian official claiming that more than 90% of the smuggling tunnels have now been destroyed. As part of the operation, Egypt’s military claims to have seized caches of weapons including a mortar belonging to Palestinian Islamic Jihad. (AFP, AP, MNA, REU 9/9)

In the West Bank, the IDF patrols in al-‘Arub r.c., al-Fawar r.c., and 1 village nr. Hebron, and 1 village nr. Salfit at night. IDF troops violently disperse Palestinian, Israeli, and international protesters at weekly demonstrations against Israel’s separation wall, settlements, and occupation in 3 villages nr. Ramallah (Bil‘in, Nabi Salih, and Ni‘lin), 1 village nr. Qalqilya (Kafr Qaddum), and 1 village nr. Bethlehem (al-Ma‘sara). There are no serious injuries (except in Kafr Qaddum where 3 are struck by tear gas canisters). In East Jerusalem, Israeli security forces raid the al-Aqsa compound and disperse worshippers with stun grenades, after Palestinians threw stones at plainclothes policemen who entered the area. Fifteen Palestinians are arrested, while Israeli police say 2 officers are injured while an al-Aqsa medical official says 55 injuries were treated among Palestinians. (MNA, REU 9/6; PCHR 9/12)

PA Minister of Prisoner Affairs Issa Qaraqe announces that the remaining prisoner releases by Israel will take place on 10/29, 12/29, and 03/28. (MNA 9/6)

U.S. Secy. of State Kerry travels to Europe on a trip intended to lobby for support for a strike on Syria, as well as discuss the Israeli-Palestinian peace process and meet with PA Pres. Mahmud Abbas in London, before returning to Washington. The itinerary also takes him to Lithuania—current holder of the presidency of the Council of the EU—and France. (AFP 9/5; AP 9/6)

U.S. Pres. Obama persuades 10 other leaders from the G20 nations to co-sign a statement urging a strong international response to the alleged use of chemical weapons by the Syrian govt., though the text does not explicitly endorse military action. Meanwhile, an unnamed State Dept. official tells the media that a strike on Syria would not fundamentally alter the balance of forces on the ground in the country’s civil war. (NYT, REU 9/6)

Supporters of ousted pres. Morsi clash with security forces and those who back the military in protests across Egypt. Two are killed nationwide, and dozens injured. There are demonstrations in Cairo, Alexandria, Suez, Fayoum, Damanhour, and a number of other towns and cities. (AFP, REU 9/6)

In the Gaza Strip, IDF troops conduct a limited incursion nr. Juhur al-Dik, where they level land close to the border fence and then withdraw. In the West Bank, the IDF injures 5 Palestinians nr. Jalazun r.c. nr. Ramallah during clashes which result from Palestinians trying to stop Jewish settlers throwing stones at cars nr. the camp. The IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 2 villages nr. Bethlehem, Qalqilya and 1 nearby village, Nablus, and Jenin r.c. at night. They patrol in al-Fawar r.c. nr. Hebron in the afternoon, and in Tulkarm and 1 nearby village, as well as 1 village nr. Jenin at night. (MNA, WAFA 9/1; PCHR 9/5)

U.S. State Dept. spokesperson Jen Psaki confirms that U.S. peace process envoy Martin Indyk participated in 1 of the sets of meetings between Israelis and Palestinians that have taken place since the resumption of talks in 7/2013 (though without specifying which one). Meanwhile, Palestinian PM Rami Hamdallah says that a 2d group of Palestinian prisoners could be freed by Israel by the end of 9/2013. (JP, REU 9/1)

Secy. of State John Kerry tells U.S. television networks that the govt. has proof sarin gas was used in a recent Damascus chemical weapons attack, urging Congress to vote for military action against the Asad regime. Meanwhile, the Syrian opposition coalition issues a statement asking Congress to approve the strike. In France, Interior Minister Mauel Valls says that his govt. would not go it alone in Syria and will wait for the decision by the U.S. Congress. (AFP, AP, REU 9/1)

Egypt’s chief prosecutor orders ousted pres. Morsi and 14 other Muslim Brotherhood leaders to stand trial on charges including inciting violence and murder. The new regime also names a constituent assembly and gives it 60 days to review amendments that would erase articles brought in by the Brotherhood and other Islamic parties last year. (NYT, REU 9/1)

In the Gaza Strip, IDF troops open fire from the border and wound a Palestinian farmer working close to the fence nr. Jabaliya r.c. In the West Bank, the IDF patrols in 1 village nr. Tulkarm in the afternoon, and in 1 village nr. Hebron at night. IDF troops violently disperse Palestinian, Israeli, and international protesters at weekly demonstrations against Israel’s separation wall, settlements, and occupation in 3 villages nr. Ramallah (Bil‘in, Nabi Salih, and Ni‘lin), 1 village nr. Qalqilya (Kafr Qaddum), and 1 village nr. Bethlehem (al-Ma‘sara). There are no serious injuries, except in Bil‘in, where 2 are struck by tear gas canisters. (MNA 8/30; PCHR 9/5)

Israel’s Central Bureau of Statistics publishes data showing that the number of settler housing starts in the West Bank rose by 141.5% in the 1st half of 2013, compared to the same period in 2012. (JP 8/30)

The Obama administration intensifies its public case for military action against Syria with the release of what it presents as evidence that the Syrian govt. has used chemical weapons against civilians on a number of occasions, including the attack last week. Pres. Obama and Secy. of State Kerry make separate statements condemning the Asad regime but committing the U.S. to only a limited retaliatory action. Meanwhile, according to an unnamed State Dept. official, Kerry speaks with the FMs of Britain, Egypt, Germany, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. (AP, REU 8/30)

Thousands of supporters of ousted pres. Morsi march in Cairo and other cities across Egypt in protest at the military coup. According to a security source, the day’s protests leave 6 dead and more than 50 injured. (REU 8/30)

In the West Bank, the IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 1 village nr. Ramallah in the afternoon and in 1 village each nr. Ramallah and Salfit at night, patrols in 2 villages nr. Jenin and 1 village each nr. Jericho, Ramallah and Tulkarm in the morning, in al-‘Arub r.c. nr. Hebron in the afternoon, and in 2 villages nr. Tulkarm and 1 village each nr. Jenin and Salfit at night. Israeli bulldozers level privately-owned Palestinian land nr. Nablus to enlarge an illegal settlement outpost. In Jerusalem, dozens of right-wing Jewish activists enter the al-Aqsa compound and held discussions on the possibility of building a Jewish temple there. (MNA 8/25, PCHR 8/29)

The Jerusalem Municipality approves a budget for a NIS 62.4 million extension of the Ramat Shlomo settlement, adding some 1,600 housing units. Other projects approved include a NIS 20 million budget for developing a national park at the settlerowned “City of David” project in the Palestinian neighborhood of Silwan. Half of that latter budget will come from the prime minister’s office. Meanwhile, Israel’s Housing and Construction Minister Uri Ariel dedicates 2 new neighborhoods of 160 homes in the West Bank settlement Keddumim and says that a two-state solution will never happen. (AP, HA, JP 8/25)

Israel’s cabinet unanimously approves the appointment of Yossi Cohen as the new head of the National Security Council (NSC). Cohen, who spent 3 decades working for Mossad, replaces Yaakov Amidror. (YA 8/25)

Syria agrees to allow UN inspectors to visit the site of a suspected chemical weapons attack in Ghouta, a Damascus suburb. The U.S. State Dept. says that Secy. of State John Kerry told his counterparts in Britain, France, Russia, and Canada in a round of phone calls that there is “very little doubt” the Syrian govt. is responsible for gassing its own citizens. An unnamed administration official tells the media that despite this near certainty in Washington, the pres. still hasn’t decided how to respond. Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Alexander Lukashevich says that the U.S. and its allies should await the findings of the UN inspection team and avoid military action. (AP, REU, 8/25)

Three leaders of the Muslim Brotherhood in Egypt, including the organization’s Supreme Guide Mohamed Badie did not appear in court on the 1st day of their separate trials, apparently due to security reasons. The judge adjourns proceedings until 10/29. The charges are of inciting lethal violence during the events leading up to the military coup. (REU 8/25)

In the West Bank, IDF forces shoot and injure 1 Palestinian in clashes provoked by an IDF arrest raid in Dahaysha r.c. nr. Bethlehem. The IDF also conducts house searches and arrest raids in Nur Shams r.c. nr Tulkarm at night; patrols in al-‘Arub r.c. nr. Hebron, Jenin, and 1 village nr. Ramallah at night. Inside Israel, suspected Jewish extremists vandalize a monastery nr. Beit Shemesh and leave “price-tag” graffiti. (WAFA 8/21; PCHR 8/22)

Senior PLO official Hanan Ashrawi says that the Palestinians may turn to UN bodies in response to Israeli settlement construction even before the current peace negotiations have come to a conclusion. In remarks made during a tour of East Jerusalem settlements, Ashrawi tells journalists “if Israel does not stop, then we have to move.” Meanwhile, Israel’s High Court of Justice rules that 30 structures in the Amana outpost in the West Bank should be demolished, but gives no evacuation date and leaves room for an appeal. (AP, JP 8/21)

A suspected chemical weapons attack takes place in Ghouta, a rebel-held suburb of Damascus, with wildly differing claims of fatalities (from a few hundred to over 1,000). Opposition forces blame the Bashar al-Asad regime, a claim denied by the govt. The UNSC holds an emergency meeting in response and calls for clarity, welcoming Ban Ki-moon’s call for a prompt investigation by UN inspectors. The U.S.-France-UK-drafted res. was changed to accommodate objections from Russia and China. (AFP, REU 8/21)

EU FMs meet for an emergency session in response to events in Egypt and agree to suspend the sale of security equipment and arms. EU foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton says that “recent actions of the military have been disproportionate.” (NYT 8/19; AFP 8/21)

In the West Bank, the IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 1 village each nr. Jenin and Qalqilya, and in 3 villages, as well as al-‘Arub refugee camp (r.c.) nr. Hebron, 1 village each nr. Bethlehem and Jenin, and Qalqilya at night; patrols in 2 villages nr. Nablus and 1 village nr. Jenin at night. Jewish settlers from Migron outpost attack a Palestinian shepherd on his village land, severely wounding him and killing 2 sheep. (PCHR 8/22; YA 8/18)

The PLO Executive Cmte. meets in Ramallah, speaking out against recent Israeli settlement construction announcements and threatening to go to international bodies in search of redress. The cmte. also says it holds the U.S. administration responsible for failing to stop Israel’s settlement activity during the renewed peace talks. Meanwhile, Palestinian Authority (PA) PM Rami Hamdallah signs an agreement with U.S. Consul General in Jerusalem Michael Ratney in which the U.S. will pay $148 million to support the PA’s budget. (JP, MNA, WAFA 8/18)

A meeting takes place in the Gaza Strip between Hamas and Fatah leaders to discuss the possibility of holding presidential and legislative elections. However, on the same day, Fatah accuses Hamas authorities in Gaza of targeting its mbrs. for detention and harassment. Meanwhile, PA forces arrest 6 Hamas mbrs. in the West Bank. (MNA 8/18)

The U.S. State Dept. puts financing for economic programs directly involving the Egyptian govt. on hold, in the 1st real indication that the Obama administration will cut or curtail aid to the country in response to the military coup. Meanwhile, clashes continue in Egypt, with security forces killing at least 36 prisoners through suffocation after firing tear gas into a prison truck. The estimated death toll for 4 days of unrest in the country stands at around 900, with an estimated 70 police officers also killed. (AP, NYT 8/18)

A UN team tasked with investigating alleged use of chemical weapons arrives in Damascus and visits 3 specific sites. (AP, NYT 8/18)

In the West Bank, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) conducts house searches and arrest raids in 1 village nr. Bethlehem at night, patrols in 1 village each nr. Hebron and Jenin in the afternoon, and in 2 villages nr. Qalqilya and 1 village each nr. Ramallah and Tulkarm at night. IDF troops violently disperse Palestinian, Israeli, and international protesters at weekly demonstrations against Israels separation wall, settlements, and occupation in 3 villages nr. Ramallah (Bil‘in, Nabi Salih, and Ni‘lin), 1 village nr. Qalqilya (Kafr Qaddum), and 1 village nr. Bethlehem (al-Ma‘sara). There are no serious injuries. (PCHR 8/22)

More than 170 people die in violent confrontations across Egypt between Muslim Brotherhood supporters, security forces, and supporters of the military coup. According to Interior Ministry figures, some 1,000 people are arrested. (AP, REU 8/17)