The Palestine Chronology

In the West Bank, a Palestinian man succumbs to injuries sustained from Israeli forces on 3/4 in Burin. An Israeli settler is stabbed and injured at a bus stop near the Neve Yaakov settlement; a Palestinian child is later arrested and accused of stabbing the settler. Israeli settlers with a military escort raid Jenin to visit Joseph’s Tomb. Israeli forces shoot and injure 7 Palestinians during a raid in Dheisheh refugee camp. Israeli forces also arrest 25 Palestinians during raids in and around Hebron, Ramallah, al-Bireh, Bethlehem, Tulkarm, and Qalqilya. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces demolish a retaining wall and raze a tract of land in Silwan. In Gaza, Israeli forces bomb Nuseirat refugee camp, Jabalia refugee camp, Khan Yunis, Rafah, and Dayr al-Balah, killing at least 86 people, including al-Aqsa TV presenter Muhammad Salama and his family in Dayr al-Balah. Israeli forces also open fire at Palestinians waiting to receive aid in Gaza City, injuring 8 people. A child and an elderly man die of starvation at the Kamal Adwan Hospital, bringing the death toll from starvation to at least 20 people. In Lebanon, Israeli forces attack Yaroun, Kafra, Yatar, and Fardis. Hezbollah forces attack Metula. In Syria, Israeli forces fire artillery, saying 2 rockets were launched at the Golan Heights. In Yemen, Houthi militants fire a missile at the True Confidence cargo ship, killing 3 people. It is the first time that a Houthi attack enforcing the Red Sea blockade has caused casualties. (AJ, AJ, HA, REU, UNOCHA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 3/6; AP, AP, REU, UNOCHA, WAFA 3/7)

More than 30,717 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces in Gaza, including at least 13,400 children and 8,900 women, and around 72,156 have been injured since 10/7/2023. At least 7,000 people are missing in rubble, including 1,700 children. 416 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces and settlers in the West Bank and East Jerusalem since 10/7/2023, including 108 children. More than 4,648 people have been injured. Israel reports that 1,139 Israelis and foreign nationals have been killed and 5,400 have been injured in Israel since 10/7/2023, including Israeli soldiers. In addition, 244 Israeli soldiers have been killed and 1,453 injured in Gaza since the ground invasion began on 10/27/2023. Over 1.93 million Palestinians, nearly 85% of the population of Gaza, have been displaced since 10/7/2023. There has been a complete electricity blackout in Gaza since 10/12/2023 due to the Israeli blockade. At least 70,000 housing units have been destroyed and 290,000 have been damaged in Israeli airstrikes since 10/7/2023, constituting over 60% of all housing units. 195 trucks carrying aid enter Gaza. (REU, UNOCHA, UNOCHA, WAFA 3/6; UNOCHA 3/7)

Israel’s National Planning and Building Council approves the advancement of 3,476 new settlement units in the Ma’ale Adumim, Kedar, and Efrat settlements. 694 units in Efrat receive final approval, while 2,452 in Ma’ale Adumm and 330 in Kedar are moved to the planning process. The PA calls for sanctions to deter Israel from its settlement enterprise. Saudi Arabia, Jordan, the UAE, Egypt, Bahrain, Turkey, and Qatar condemn the settlement expansion. German asks Israel to withdraw the approval, ‘strongly condemning’ the decision. (AJ, HA, HA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 3/6; AJ, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 3/7)

HaMoked says the number of Palestinian prisoners has risen to 9,077, including more than 3,500 held in administrative detention. (AJ 3/6)

South Africa asks the ICJ to order additional emergency measures against Israel, citing imminent widespread famine, and tells the ICJ that Israel is breaching the measures the court already ruled it has to follow. (AJ, AJ, AP, HA, REU, WAFA 3/6; NYT, REU 3/7)

Israeli UN ambassador Gilad Erdan says Israel may close the UN’s headquarters in Jerusalem, deport UN officials from Israel, and evacuate UNRWA compounds in Jerusalem if UN secretary-general Antonio Guterres does not invoke Article 99 of the UN Charter to force the Security Council to discuss captives held in Gaza and allegations of sexual crimes committed on 10/7/2023. Israel approves aid funded by the UAE entering Gaza via the sea. The aid will be shipped from Cyprus to a dock controlled by Israel where it will be distributed using hovercrafts. (AJ, HA 3/6)

Qatari prime minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani meets with UK foreign secretary David Cameron, discussing the situation in Gaza and ceasefire negotiations. Cameron and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak meet Israeli war cabinet member Benny Gantz in London, telling him more aid needs to enter Gaza. (AJ, AP, HA, NYT, WAFA 3/6; NYT 3/7)

Jordanian foreign minister Ayman Safadi speaks with U.S. secretary of state Antony Blinken, calling for an immediate ceasefire. (AJ 3/6)

The Washington Post reports that the U.S. has secretly approved and delivered more than 100 separate arms shipments to Israel since 10/7/2023. The Post says the U.S. has circumvented congressional oversight in the majority of instances by processing arms sales that are below the threshold to notify Congress. The transfers include thousands of 155mm shells, tens of thousands of bomb guidance systems, Hellfire air-to-surface missiles, drones, Iron Dome munitions and more. (AJ, HA 3/6; HA 3/7)

Iraq and Qatar pledges $25 million to UNRWA. (AJ 3/6)

In the West Bank, Palestinians protest outside the UNRWA headquarters in Ramallah against the countries that have suspended funding to the agency. Israeli settlers assault Palestinians in Khillet al-Farra in the Masafer Yatta area. Israeli forces raid Nur Shams refugee camp, killing 3 Palestinians and injuring 1, uprooting streets, and destroying property. Israeli forces also shoot and injure a Palestinian during a raid in Wadi al-Fara’a. Elsewhere, Israeli forces demolish a home under construction in Bayt Jala. Israeli forces also arrest 25 Palestinians during raids in Jenin, Hebron, Qalqilya, Bethlehem, Ramallah, and Tulkarm. In East Jerusalem, Israeli settlers tour the Haram al-Sharif compound. In Gaza, Israeli forces bomb Rafah, Khan Yunis, and Gaza City, killing at least 123 people, including 13 people collecting water from a truck distributing aid in Gaza City. Israeli forces also shoot and kill a paramedic and injure 2 others while they are evacuating injured people in Gaza City and open fire at al-Amal Hospital in Khan Yunis, injuring 2. Elsewhere, Israeli forces shoot and kill a woman trying to collect water for the Nasser Hospital. Off the coast of Gaza, Israeli forces kill 2 Palestinian fishermen northwest of Rafah. In Lebanon, Israeli forces bomb Khiam, killing 1 civilian and wounding 2 others. Israeli forces also bomb Marwahin and Bani Haiyyan. In Iraq, U.S. forces kill at least 3 people, including a senior member of Kataib Hezbollah, in an airstrike on Baghdad. (AJ, AJ, AP, AX, HA, HA, NYT, REU, REU, UNOCHA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 2/7; AJ, UNOCHA 2/8)

More than 27,708 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces in Gaza, including at least 11,500 children and 7,200 women, and around 67,147 have been injured since 10/7. At least 8,000 people are missing in rubble, including 1,700 children. 379 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces and settlers in the West Bank and East Jerusalem since 10/7, including 96 children. More than 4,426 people have been injured. Israel reports that 1,139 Israelis and foreign nationals have been killed and 5,400 have been injured in Israel since 10/7, including Israeli soldiers. In addition, 225 Israeli soldiers have been killed and 1,304 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. At least 70,000 housing units have been destroyed and 290,000 have been damaged in Israeli airstrikes since 10/7, constituting over 60% of all housing units. 169 trucks carrying aid enter Gaza. The Gaza Ministry of Health says 11,000 sick and wounded Palestinians need evacuation for treatment. The Gaza Media Office says Israeli has burned 3,000 housing units in Gaza during its ground invasion. The UN says Israel has prevented 51 out of 61 planned aid missions to northern Gaza. Israelis continue to block the Karem Abu Salem (Kerem Shalom) crossing for the second day in a row. (AJ, AP, UNOCHA, UNOCHA, WAFA 2/7; AJ, UNOCHA 2/8)

The Palestinian Prisoner’s Society says that there are 3,484 Palestinians held in administrative detention, including 40 children and 11 women. (WAFA 2/7)

An Israeli soldier dies of a fungal infection after being exposed 7 weeks ago in Gaza. (HA 2/7)

Details of Hamas’s counterproposal to the Israeli, U.S., Qatari, and Egyptian ceasefire proposal are unveiled. The Hamas proposal includes 3 stages of 45 days. In the first stage, Israel and Hamas would exchange the remaining female, child, and elderly Israeli captives for 1,500 Palestinian prisoners, see 500 trucks of aid enter Gaza daily, allow Palestinians to return to their homes in Gaza, allow the entry of 60,000 temporary homes and 200,000 tents, and stop Israeli settlers from entering the Haram al-Sharif compound. In the second stage, male captives would be exchanged for more Palestinian prisoners. In the third phase, the bodies of those killed would be exchanged. The proposal also calls for securing the reconstruction of Gaza and the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces. Hamas political bureau member Mohammad Nazzal says the Hamas proposal has clear deadlines which the original proposal lacked, that Qatar, Egypt, Russia, Turkey, and the UN will be guarantors for maintaining the ceasefire, and that the proposal is final. Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu calls the counterproposal “delusional,” saying Israel will not end its war on Gaza and will continue until “total victory.” (AJ, AJ, AP, AP, AP, AX, HA, HA, NYT, REU, REU, REU, REU 2/7; NYT, NYT 2/8)

U.S. secretary of state Antony Blinken meets with PA president Mahmoud Abbas in Ramallah, discussing negotiations for a ceasefire in Gaza, Israel’s withholding of PA tax funds, and settler violence. Abbas also expresses the importance of the U.S. recognizing the state of Palestine. Blinken also meets with Prime Minister Netanyahu, military Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, and President Issac Herzog. The Israeli Broadcasting Corporation reports that Netanyahu promises Blinken that Israel will not invade Egypt at the Philadelphi Corridor without coordination with Egypt. Blinken says at a press conference that Hamas will not play a role in the future governance of Gaza, that the death toll in Gaza remains too high, and that Israel should open the Beit Hanun (Erez) crossing to allow more aid to enter Gaza. Blinken also says that the Hamas response to the ceasefire deal has “clear non-starters,” but that he thinks there is space for an agreement to be reached. Lastly, Blinken says that Israel cannot use the events of 10/7/2023 as a “license to dehumanize others.” Netanyahu says he complained to Blinken about the U.S. executive order allowing the U.S. sanction Israeli settlers, calling the order “inappropriate” and “highly problematic.”  (AJ, AJ, AJ, AP, AX, AX, HA, NYT, REU, WAFA 2/7; HA, HA, NYT, REU 2/8)

Hamas says a delegation led by political bureau deputy leader Khalil al-Hayya will travel to Egypt for continued ceasefire talks with officials from Egypt and Qatar. (AJ 2/7)

PA health minister Mai al-Kaila sends a letter to UN secretary-general Antonio Guterres, calling on him to ensure that medical personnel in Gaza are protected as 340 doctors and health workers have been killed by Israeli forces. Al-Mezan says in a letter to Guterres that the UN Office on Genocide Prevention has failed in its mandate, calling it “double standards.” (AJ, WAFA 2/7)

The Saudi Arabian Foreign Ministry issues a statement saying “in light of what has been attributed to the U.S. National Security Spokesperson, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs affirms that the position of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has always been steadfast on the Palestinian issue . . . The Kingdom has communicated its formal position to the U.S. administration that there will be no diplomatic relations with Israel unless an independent Palestinian state is recognized on the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital, and that the Israeli aggression on the Gaza Strip stops and all Israeli occupation forces withdraw from the Gaza Strip.” In the statement, Saudi Arabia also calls on UN Security Council members to recognize the state of Palestine. The PLO and PA welcome the Saudi statement. (AJ, AP, HA, HA, REU, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 2/7)

Argentinian president Javier Milei meets with Prime Minister Netanyahu in Jerusalem, saying Argentina will designate Hamas as a terrorist organization. On 2/6, Milei said he would move the Argentinian embassy to East Jerusalem. The Arab League and OIC condemn Milei’s promise to move the embassy. (AJ, HA, HA, WAFA, WAFA 2/7)

The U.S. Senate rejects a $118 billion bill that would fund Israel’s war on Gaza, send military aid to Ukraine, and fund the U.S.-Mexico border. Senator Bernie Sanders (D-VA) says he voted against the bill because the military aid to Israel is “unconscionable” given the Israel’s “horrific war against the Palestinian people,” and because of the provisions in the bill that would prevent UNRWA funding. (AJ, AJ, HA 2/7)

The American Civil Liberties Union writes a letter to U.S. secretary of education Miguel Cardona, calling on him to reject the International Holocaust Remembrance Association’s working definition of anti-Semitism, saying it conflates anti-Semitism with political speech. (AJ 2/7)

Canadian immigration minister Marc Miller says Egyptian and Israeli authorities have not allowed 1,000 Palestinians who have been granted permission to come to Canada to be evacuated. (AJ 2/7)

Norway transfers $26 million to UNRWA, saying millions of people should not be collectively punished for the alleged wrongdoing of 12 staff members. (AJ 2/7)

In the West Bank, a Palestinian man shot by Israeli forces on 1/8 in Beitunia succumbs to his wounds. Israeli settlers set olive trees and an agriculture structure on fire near Kafr ad-Dik. Israeli forces raid Nablus and Abud, injuring 8 people with live ammunition, including a child, and cause widespread destruction in Nablus. Israeli forces also demolish a car wash and a nursery in Kafl Haris. Elsewhere, Israeli forces raze 6 dunams (1.5 acres) of Palestinian-owned land planted with 50 olive trees in Hebron and 2 dunams (.5 acres) of Palestinian-owned land near Bethlehem. Israeli forces also raid a medical clinic near Bethlehem, causing damage. Israeli forces arrest 26 Palestinians during late-night raids in and around Bethlehem, Ramallah, Tulkarm, Tubas, Hebron, Jenin, and Nablus. In East Jerusalem, Israeli authorities demolish a Palestinian home in Sur Baher, displacing 8 people. In Gaza, Israel bombs Dayr al-Balah, Rafah, Gaza City, Khan Yunis, Maghazi, al-Bureij refugee camp, and Jabalia refugee camp, killing at least 147 people, including 4 crew members and 2 injured Palestinians being transported an ambulance, killing 40 people in a home at the entrance of al-Aqsa Hospital in Dayr al-Balah, and 15 people in an apartment building in Rafah. In the Naqab, Israeli forces demolish the al-Za’arura and Bir Hadaj Bedouin villages. In Lebanon, Israeli forces attack the home of a Hezbollah member in Kfarchouba, killing him. (AJ, AJ, AP, HA, HA, UNOCHA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 1/10; AJ 1/11)

More than 23,357 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces in Gaza, including at least 16,350 women and children, and around 59,410 have been injured since 10/7. At least 7,000 people are missing in rubble, including 1,700 children. 335 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces and settlers in the West Bank and East Jerusalem since 10/7, including 84 children. More than 4,148 people have been injured. Israel reports that 1,139 Israelis and foreign nationals have been killed and 5,400 have been injured in Israel since 10/7, including Israeli soldiers. In addition, 184 Israeli soldiers have been killed and 1,076 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. At least 69,000 housing units have been destroyed and 290,000 have been damaged in Israeli airstrikes since 10/7, constituting over 60% of all housing units. 193 trucks carrying aid enter Gaza via the Rafah and Karem Abu Salem (Kerem Shalom) crossings. (WAFA, UNOCHA, UNOCHA 1/10)

Israel places Khalida Jarrar in administrative detention for an initial period of 6 months. (AJ 1/10)

Haaretz reports that Israel demolished 140 Palestinian homes and 84 other structures in East Jerusalem in 2023, marking a 60% increase in home demolitions compared to 2022. The newspaper notes that during the first 9 months of 2023 10 housing units were demolished per month and after 10/7 the figure rose to 17 a month. (HA 1/10)

Hamas official Osama Hamdan says there are no talks about a prisoner exchange, adding Israel is defrauding the Israeli public by circulating reports about talks. Hamdan maintains the Hamas position that it will not engage until Israel stops its attacks on Gaza. Hamdan also calls on the ICJ not to be pressured by the U.S. (AJ, HA, NYT 1/10)

PA president Mahmoud Abbas meets with U.S. secretary of state Antony Blinken in Ramallah, discussing the situation in Gaza and the West Bank. Reports describe the meeting as intense, with Abbas pressing Blinken on Israel’s freezing of the PA’s tax revenue and Israel’s attacks on Gaza. Palestinians protest Blinken’s visit, saying he is not welcome. Blinken later tells the press in Bahrain that Abbas agreed to reform the PA in preparation to take control of Gaza. Abbas flies to Aqaba in Jordan after the meeting with Blinken where he meets Jordanian king Abdullah II and Egyptian president Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, discussing ways to end Israel’s war in Gaza and prevent the displacement of Palestinians. PA prime minister Mohammad Shtayyeh meets with U.S. deputy assistant secretary for Palestinian affairs Hady Amr in Ramallah. (AJ, AJ, AP, AP, HA, NYT, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 1/10; AJ, AJ, HA, NYT 1/11)

In an English language post on X Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu says, “Israel has no intention of permanently occupying Gaza or displacing its civilian population,” contradicting statements by several of his coalition members. Israeli war cabinet member Benny Gantz says Hamas no longer has ruling capabilities in Gaza and that Israel will continue its war to prevent Hamas from regaining control. Gantz also says that security in Gaza will remain “in our hands.” Likud member and deputy speaker of the Knesset Nissim Vatur tells the Kol Barama radio station that “Gaza and its people must be burned.” (AJ, AP, HA, HA 1/10)

Colombia and Brazil issue statements in support of the South African case against Israel at the ICJ. Palestinians rally in Ramallah in support of the case. (AJ 1/10; AJ 1/11)

The UN Security Council passes a resolution demanding that Yemen’s Houthi government ends its attacks on ships in the Red Sea and frees the ship Galaxy Leader and its crew. Russia, China, Mozambique, and Algeria abstain. 3 Russian amendments to the resolution fail. The Houthis call the resolution a “political game.”  (AJ, AP, AP, HA 1/10; AJ, AJ, HA 1/11)

The ICC sets up a portal for submission of evidence of Israeli war crimes, crimes against humanity, genocide, or aggression. (AJ, WAFA 1/10)

The Chinese Foreign Ministry calls for an immediate ceasefire and for Israel to stop “collective punishment” of the people of Gaza. (AJ 1/10)

U.S. Republican presidential candidate Ron DeSantis suggests at a presidential primary debate that Egypt or Saudi Arabia should resettle some Palestinians from Gaza if Israel “makes the calculation that [it is needed] to avert a second Holocaust.” Another candidate, Nikki Haley, says the U.S. should give Israel “whatever it wants.” (AJ, HA 1/11)

A poll conducted for the Washington Institute for Near East Policy finds that 96% of Saudis believe all Arab states should sever all ties with Israel. A YouGov poll commissioned by Medical Aid for Palestinians and the Council for Arab-British Understanding shows that 71% of people in the UK support an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, while 17% approve of the UK government’s handling of the war on Gaza. (AJ 1/10)

The Jewish Forward reports that the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) has started including pro-Palestine rallies in its tally of anti-Semitic incidents. The report also says that the ADL now deems all anti-Zionist chants and slogans anti-Semitic, leading to pro-Palestine rallies where anti-Zionist slogan were chanted constituting 40% of incidents of anti-Semitism counted in a recent ADL report. (AJ, HA 1/10)

The International Ice Hockey Federation bars Israel from participating in world championship events, citing security concerns. Israel calls the ban “anti-Semitic.” The decision prevents the U20 Israeli hockey team from participating in a Division III world championship tournament later this month. (HA, TOI 1/11)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers opened fire at Palestinians harvesting olives in Qusra; no injuries were reported. Israeli settlers with a military escort also raided Wadi al-Hasin, injuring 1 Palestinian minor and entering homes and commercial stores. Israeli forces raided Jenin and Jenin refugee camp, killing 3 Palestinians, including 2 in a drone strike, and arresting Fatah’s secretary general in Jenin Ata Abu Ramila and Fatah member Jamal Hawil. Israeli forces also shot and killed 1 disabled 65-year-old Palestinian man during a raid in Tulkarm. Elsewhere, Israeli forces raided a funeral procession for 1 child killed on 10/31 in Beit Umar, injuring 2 with live ammunition and others with tear gas. Israeli forces also shot and injured 2 Palestinians, including a child, during raids in Aida refugee camp and Ya’bad. Meanwhile, Israeli forces demolished 2 homes and 4 agricultural structures in al-Khader and seized a bulldozer in Deir Balut. Palestinians in the West Bank and East Jerusalem observed a general strike in protest over Israel’s attacks on Gaza. 62 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in and around Bethlehem, Jenin, Hebron, Qalqilya, Ramallah, Tulkarm, and Nablus. In East Jerusalem, Israeli settlers toured the Haram al-Sharif compound. In Gaza, Israel again cut off phone and internet services. The services were gradually restored 8 hours later. At least 280 Palestinians were killed and 697 injured in Israeli airstrikes in Gaza. Israel conducted massive airstrikes on Jabalia refugee camp for a second day in a row. Hamas said 195 Palestinians were killed, 777 were injured, and 120 are missing in Jabalia refugee camp in the past 2 days. Israel claimed it had assassinated Hamas member Muhammad Asar. Rockets were fired at Israel. In Lebanon, Israeli forces attacked several places it said was linked to Hezbollah. Hezbollah said it had shot down an Israeli drone. Lebanon’s state run news agency said 2 Lebanese shepherds were killed by Israeli forces while grazing their herds by the Wazzani river. (HA 10/31; AJ, AJ, AJ, AJ, AP, HA, HA, HA, NYT, NYT, REU, REU, UNOCHA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 11/1; AP, REU 11/2)

The Ministry of Health in Gaza said at least 8,805 Palestinians had been killed, including around 5,811 women and children, and 22,240 had been injured in Israeli airstrikes on Gaza since 10/7. At least 1,800 people, including 940 children, have been reported missing. 129 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces and settlers in the West Bank and East Jerusalem since 10/7, including 35 children. More than 2,274 people have been injured. Israel said 15 soldiers had been killed in Gaza since its ground invasion, leaving the Israeli death toll at around 1,400 Israelis, including foreign nationals, since 10/7. 5,431 Israelis have been injured. The UN reported that over 1.4 million Palestinians, more than half the population in Gaza, had been displaced since 10/7. There has been a complete blackout of electricity in Gaza since 10/12 due to the Israel blockade. As of 10/23, at least 27,781 housing units have been destroyed and 150,000 have been damaged in Israeli airstrikes since 10/7. The number is likely much higher given the lack of recent data. About 450 people, including 81 injured Palestinians and people with foreign passports, left Gaza to Egypt via the Rafah crossing. It was reported that Qatari mediation had brokered the agreement for a limited evacuation of some people from Gaza. 55 trucks carrying aid entered Gaza. PA health minister Mai al-Kaila said the only cancer hospital in Gaza, the Turkish-Palestinian Friendship Hospital, had stopped operating due to Israeli bombardments and running out of fuel. The Indonesian Hospital’s main generator stopped working, putting the hospital’s oxygen station, ventilators, air-conditioners, and fridges in the morgue out of commission. 14 out of 35 hospitals in Gaza were out of commission. The UN said 11 out of 20 bakeries in Gaza have been destroyed in Israeli airstrikes since 10/7. The UN also said it had recorded 171 settler-related incidents of violence against Palestinians and Palestinian property, 7 a day, since 10/7. UNRWA commissioner-general Philippe Lazzarini visited Gaza, saying the “scale of the tragedy is unprecedented.” (HA 10/31; AJ, AJ, AJ, AJ, AP, AP, AP, HA, HA, NYT, NYT, REU, REU, REU, REU, UNOCHA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 11/1; AJ, AP, AP 11/2)

36 Palestinians fled their homes in al-Ganoub near Hebron due to Israeli settler violence. (UNOCHA 11/1)

The Israel Prison Service said 6,704 Palestinians were imprisoned in Israel, including 2,070 who were held in administrative detention. 1,512 were imprisoned during the month of October. Al Jazeera reported that Arafat Hamdan, who died in Israeli custody on 10/24, died because he was beaten and left in the sun with a bag over his head for hours while being refused his diabetes medicine. Palestinian Prisoners Society spokesperson Amani Sarahneh said a medical report issued by the Israel Prison Service showed that Omar Daraghmeh, who died in Israeli custody on 10/23, had “internal bleeding, particularly in his stomach and intestines.” The UN Human Rights Office reported that Palestinians arrested by Israel have been subject to violent and humiliating acts by Israeli forces during their arrest.  (AJ, UNOCHA 11/1; HA 11/2)

Hamas said that 7 of the captives held by Hamas were killed in the Israeli airstrikes on Jabalia refugee camp on 10/31, saying “almost 50” of the captives have been killed in Israeli bombardments since 10/7. (AJ 11/1)

Reporters Without Borders (RSF) filed war crime complaints to the ICC in relation to the killing of 8 Palestinian and 1 Israeli journalists. RSF said 34 journalists had been killed since 10/7. The organization also said that more journalists have been killed since 10/7 than in in any other conflict since 1992. (AJ, AP 11/1; HA 11/2)

UN commissioner for human rights Volker Turk said the Israeli attacks on Jabalia refugee camp could amount to war crimes. Colombian president Gustavo Petro condemned the attack and said “[i]t’s called Genocide, they do it to remove the Palestinian people from Gaza and take it over.” EU high commissioner for foreign policy Josep Borell called the Jabalia refugee camp attack appalling. (AJ, REU, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 11/1; AJ, AJ, AJ, HA 11/2)

PA prime minister Mohammad Shtayyeh and Foreign Minister Riyad al-Maliki met with UK minister of state for the Middle East and North Africa Lord Tariq Ahmed in Ramallah, calling on the UK to support a ceasefire. (WAFA 11/1)

Israeli defense minister Yoav Gallant said Israeli finance minister Bezalel Smotrich should transfer the PA tax revenue to the PA, as it helps “in preventing terrorism.” It was reported that Gallant was left with the decision of whether to use new emergency regulations to ban Al Jazeera’s operations in Israel. Israeli sources told Haaretz that the Israeli government was hesitant to shut down Al Jazeera’s operations in Israel as it may undermine Qatari negotiations on a prisoner exchange. (AJ, REU 11/1; HA, HA 11/2)

The Religious Zionism party said its MK Zvi Sukkot will be appointed chairman of the Knesset subcommittee on West Bank issues. Sukkot has been arrested several times and had restraining orders against entering the West Bank for his connection to settler violence.  (HA 11/1; HA 11/2)

Jordan recalled its ambassador to Israel. (AJ, AJ, REU, WAFA 11/1; HA 11/2)

For the first time U.S. president Joe Biden called for a “pause” to “get the prisoners out.” White House press secretary Katrine Jean-Pierre announced that the Biden administration will develop a national strategy to counter Islamophobia in the U.S., mentioning the “barbaric killing of Wadea al-Fayoume” a Palestinian American child who was killed by his landlord near Chicago on 10/15. The U.S. House of Representatives blocked a motion to censure Democrat Rashida Tlaib (D-MI). The motion, which was brought to the floor by Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA), charged Tlaib with “anti-Semitic activity” and “leading an insurrection,” referring to a Jewish-led sit-in at the Capitol where protestors demanded a ceasefire in Gaza. Taylor Greene has herself made anti-Semitic comments. 23 Republicans voted against the motion and 13 Democrats abstained. National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby said the U.S. still wants to move forward with its efforts to normalize ties between Saudi Arabia and Israel and claimed that Saudi Arabia has indicated a willingness to proceed. (AJ 11/1; AJ, AJ, AJ, AP, AP, HA 11/2)

The Houthi-led Yemeni government said it would continue to carry out military operations against Israel until Israel stops attacking Gaza. (HA 11/2)

Pope Francis called for a 2-state solution with Jerusalem as a special status city. (AJ 11/1; REU 11/2)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers raided at-Tuba and Wadi Ijheish in the Masafer Yatta area, assaulting Palestinians and stealing 6 sheep and agricultural equipment. Israeli settlers also raided Qaryut, vandalizing property. Israeli forces shot and killed 5 Palestinians during raids in Askar refugee camp, Dheisheh refugee camp, Bayt Rima, Balata refugee camp, and Tammun. Israeli forces also shot and injured 38 people, including at least 3 children, during raids in Tammun, Dheisheh refugee camp, Balata refugee camp, ‘Urif, Askar refugee camp, Nablus, and Bayt Rima. Meanwhile, Israeli forces punitively demolished the family home in Askar refugee camp of a Palestinian man killed by Israeli forces in Nablus in May; the man was accused of taking part in the killing of 3 Israeli settlers in April. Israeli forces also punitively demolished the family home of a Palestinian killed by Israeli forces in Burqa and delivered a punitive demolition notice to the family of a Palestinian killed in Rumana. Elsewhere, Israeli forces razed land near Abu Basal to expand a nearby settlement. Israeli forces also closed the Dream Radio station in Hebron, threating to destroy its contents if it did not stop broadcasting. 35 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in and around Nablus, Jenin, Hebron, Qalqilya, Tubas, Salfit, and Tulkarm. The PA Commission of Detainees and Ex-Detainees Affairs said more than 1,590 Palestinian have been arrested in the West Bank since 10/7. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces fired tear gas at Palestinians in Silwan, igniting a fire and causing injuries. In Gaza, some communications were restored after being cut off by Israel on 10/27. At least 302 Palestinians were killed in Israeli attacks. Islamic Jihad said Israel has assassinated 1 of its senior political officials, Taysir Alghouti, and killed several members of his family in Rafah. Islamic Jihad also said it attacked some Israeli military vehicles in Gaza. 2 Israeli soldiers were injured by a mortar shell in Gaza. Rockets were fired at Israel, causing damage. In Hanita, Islamic Jihad said 2 al-Quds Brigades fighters had been killed during an operation near the Blue Line. In Lebanon, Hezbollah said it had downed an Israeli drone. (AJ, HA 10/28; AJ, AJ, AP, AP, HA, HA, NYT, REU, REU, UNOCHA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 10/29; AP, AJ 10/30)

The Gaza Ministry of Health said at least 8,005 Palestinians have been killed, including around 5,000 women and children, and 20,242 have been injured in Israeli airstrikes on Gaza since 10/7. 1,800 Palestinians, including 940 children, have been reported missing. In addition, media reported that 1,500 Palestinian militants have been killed near Gaza. 115 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces and settlers in the West Bank and East Jerusalem since 10/7, including 33 children. More than 2,150 have been injured. Israeli officials recorded no new fatalities, leaving the Israeli death toll at around 1,400 Israelis and foreign nationals; 5,431 have been injured since 10/7. The UN reported that over 1.4 million Palestinians, more than half the population in Gaza, have been displaced since 10/7 and that since 11 p.m. on 10/12 there has been a complete electricity blackout due to the Israeli blockade. As of 10/23, at least 27,781 housing units had been destroyed and 150,000 had been damaged in Israeli airstrikes since 10/7. At least 45% of all housing units have been either destroyed or damaged in Israeli airstrikes. The bodies of 62 unidentified Palestinians were buried in a mass grave near al-Shifa Hospital. It was the third time Palestinians in Gaza had to resort to burying Palestinians killed by Israel in a mass grave since 10/7. 33 trucks carrying aid entered Gaza. Israel opened a second water pipe to Gaza. The Palestinian Red Crescent Society said Israel has ordered it to evacuate al-Quds Hospital; airstrikes later damaged the hospital as well as the al-Shifa and Indonesian hospitals. UNRWA said the slow flow of aid has prompted thousands of Palestinians in Gaza to take food supplies from its warehouses. The UN said nearly 1,000 Palestinians have been displaced from their homes in the West Bank since 10/7 due to Israeli settler attacks and Israeli military demolitions. (AJ 10/28; AJ, AJ, AP, HA, HA, REU, REU, UNOCHA, WAFA, WAFA 10/29; AJ, AJ, AP, WAFA 10/30)

Save the Children said more children have been killed in Gaza in the past 3 weeks than the total number of children killed in conflicts around the world since 2019, saying so far 3,324 have been killed in Gaza and 36 in the West Bank. (AJ 10/29; AJ 10/30)

A Palestinian citizen of Israel, actress Maisa Abd Elhadi, was charged by Israel with incitement to terrorism and expressing solidarity with a terrorist organization for an Instagram post. Interior Minister Moshe Arbel directed the Population and Immigration Authority to determine if he could revoke her citizenship. Elhadi was arrested on 10/12. (HA 10/30)

Reporters Without Borders said their investigation into the Israeli killing of Reuters journalist Issam Abdallah on 10/13 in Lebanon concluded that Israel intentionally targeted him and other journalists. (AJ 10/28; REU 10/29; AJ 10/30; AP 10/31)

Israeli defense minister Yoav Gallant signed an order to place the settler activist Ariel Danino on administrative detention for 4 months for his involvement in settler attacks on Palestinians. (HA 10/29)

PA president Mahmoud Abbas met with Bahraini foreign inister Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani in Ramallah. PA foreign minister Riyad al-Maliki spoke with UK foreign secretary James Cleverly. (WAFA, WAFA 10/29)

A leaked internal U.S. State Department memo recommended that President Joe Biden pressure Israel to allow more aid to enter Gaza, estimating that 52,000 pregnant women and 30,000 babies were drinking brackish or contaminated water due to the lack of water in Gaza. (HA 10/29; AJ 10/30)

The Washington Post reported that the U.S. pressured Israel to turn communications back on in Gaza. (AJ 10/30)

International Committee of the Red Cross president Mirjana Spoljaric said “[i]t is unacceptable that civilians have no safe place to go in Gaza amid the massive bombardments, and with a military siege in place there is also no adequate humanitarian response currently possible. This is a catastrophic failing that the world must not tolerate.” (HA 10/28)

30 Israeli human rights and civil society organizations urged the international community to “act urgently to stop the state-backed wave of settler violence which has led, and is leading to, the forcible transfer of Palestinian communities in the West Bank.” The French foreign ministry called on Israel to take action to protect Palestinians in the West Bank. (AJ 10/28; HA, WAFA 10/29)

President Biden told Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu that more humanitarian aid has to enter Gaza immediately. Before the 2 spoke, U.S. national security advisor Jake Sullivan said Israel “has a responsibility to rein in the settlers.” Sullivan also said Israel must distinguish between “terrorist targets” and civilians and claimed Hamas was using human shields. Biden also spoke with Egyptian president Abdel Fattah el-Sisi. (AJ 10/28; AJ, HA, REU, REU, WAFA 10/29)

UN secretary-general Antonio Guterres said, “the world is witnessing a humanitarian catastrophe taking place before our eyes,” in reference to the situation in Gaza. (AJ 10/28; HA 10/29)

Pope Francis called for a ceasefire and the release of the Hamas-held captives. (HA, REU 10/29)

ICC prosecutor Karim Khan visited the Rafah crossing, saying the ICC has ongoing investigations into potential war crimes committed by Hamas and Israel. Khan said impeding aid to Gaza could constitute a war crime. (AJ 10/28; AJ, HA, HA, REU, WAFA 10/29; AJ 10/30)

Jordan said it has asked the U.S. to deploy the Patriot air defense system in Jordan. (AJ 10/28; REU 10/29)

Pro-Palestinian demonstrations were held in many cities across the world, including in Islamabad, Beirut, Berlin, Madrid, Athens, and Ottawa. (AJ 10/28; AJ, REU, WAFA 10/29)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers opened fire at a Palestinian car traveling near Marda, causing damage. Israeli settlers also vandalized 40 olive trees in Kafr ad-Dik and stole an olive harvest in Awarta. Israeli forces shot and killed 2 Palestinians and injured 14 others during a raid in Jalazone refugee camp. Israeli forces also prevented Palestinians from harvesting olives in Iskaka. More than 120 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in and around Hebron, Jalazone refugee camp, Bayt Rima, Jericho, Bethlehem, Jenin, Tulkarm, and Nablus. In East Jerusalem, Israeli settlers toured the Haram al-Sharif compound, preventing Palestinian students from attending classes. In Gaza, Israeli airstrikes killed at least 400 Palestinians. Israel said it had attacked 320 targets in Gaza overnight, including 2 mosques. Rockets were fired at Israel, causing damage. In Lebanon, Israeli forces attacked 2 Hezbollah positions, killing 1 person near Aitaroun. Israel shot down 2 drones that entered Israeli airspace from Lebanon. (AP 10/20; AJ, AJ, HA 10/22; AJ, AJ, AJ, AP, HA, NYT, REU, REU, REU, UNOCHA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 10/23; WAFA 10/24)

The Gaza Ministry of Health said as of 5 p.m. at least 5,087 Palestinians had been killed, including at least 3,100 women and children, and 15,273 had been injured in Israeli airstrikes on Gaza since 10/7. It is estimated that 1,500 were trapped in rubble. In addition, Israeli media reported that 1,500 Palestinian militants have been killed near Gaza. 94 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces and settlers in the West Bank and East Jerusalem since 10/7, including 27 children. More than 1,738 have been injured, including at least 360 with live ammunition. Israeli officials recorded no new fatalities, leaving the Israeli death toll at around 1,400 Israelis and foreign nationals; 5,431 have been injured since 10/7. The UN reported that over 1.4 million Palestinians, more than half the population in Gaza, have been displaced since 10/7 and that since 11 p.m. on 10/12 there has been a complete electricity blackout due to the Israeli blockade. At least 26,756 housing units have been destroyed and 139,000 have been damaged in Israeli airstrikes since 10/7. At least 42% of all housing units have been either destroyed or damaged in Israeli airstrikes. Israel said it allowed 14 trucks of aid to enter Gaza after having its forces inspect the contents. A total of 20 trucks carrying food, water, and medicine entered Gaza. The International Organization for Migration said 19,646 people in Lebanon have been displaced due to fighting near the Blue Line. (AJ, AJ, HA, REU, UNOCHA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 10/23)

Palestinian prisoner and Hamas member, Omar Daraghmeh, died in the Megiddo Prison. Hamas called the 58-year-old’s death an assassination. Daraghmeh was arrested in his home in Tubas and placed in administrative detention on 10/9. (AJ 10/22; WAFA 10/23)

2 elderly Israeli Hamas-held captives were released to the Red Cross and transferred to Israel via Egypt’s Rafah crossing. 1 of the captives was filmed shaking the hand of 1 of the Hamas members handing them over to the Red Cross. 4 captives have been released since 10/20. Hamas said the 2 were released for humanitarian reasons. Later 1 of the released Israelis said she was treated with care while being kept but was beaten when she was taken to Gaza. (AJ 10/22; AJ, AJ, HA, HA 10/23; AJ, HA, HA, NYT, REU 10/24)

PA president Mahmoud Abbas met with Dutch prime minister Mark Rutte in Ramallah. Rutte had met Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Israel before traveling to Ramallah. Abbas also spoke with EU Commission president Ursula von der Leyen. (WAFA, WAFA 10/23)

EU high commissioner for foreign affairs Josep Borell called for a temporary ceasefire to allow more aid to reach Gaza. (AP 10/20; AJ 10/22; AJ, HA, REU 10/23)

Amnesty International said UK prime minister Rishi Sunak and Labor shadow secretary for international development Lisa Nandy “are diminishing the gravity of Israel’s actions” by refusing to condemn clear breaches of international law. Sunak said the UK will donate $25 million in aid to Gaza and said the UK believed it was a misfired rocket from Gaza that hit al-Ahli Arab Hospital on 10/17. (AJ 10/22; HA 10/23)

U.S. National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby said it is still not time for the U.S. to call for a ceasefire. The U.S. also sent 3-star general James Glynn to advise Israel. Glynn is reported to be an expert in urban warfare. (AJ 10/22; AP 10/24)

China’s special envoy on the Middle East Zhai Jun said China is willing to do “whatever is conducive” to promote a ceasefire and retore peace, calling the situation in Gaza “very serious.” (AJ, REU 10/23)

The ICC announced that it would begin hearings on the request for an advisory opinion on the legal consequences of the Israeli occupation on 2/19/2024. (HA 10/23; WAFA 10/25)

In the West Bank, a Palestinian succumbed to injuries sustained from Israeli forces in Tulkarm on 10/13. Israeli settlers vandalized 3 water wells, uprooted 70 olive tree saplings, and removed barbed wire in Susiya. Israeli forces shot and killed 2 Palestinians during raids in Aqabat Jaber refugee camp and Jenin. Israeli forces also violently dispersed Palestinians in Aqabat Jaber refugee camp and Fawwar refugee camp, injuring 4 with live ammunition. At least 70 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in and around Hebron, Tulkarm, Nablus, Ramallah, Nil’in, Qarawat Bani Hassan, Bethlehem, and Jericho. In Gaza, Israeli airstrikes killed more than 100 Palestinians and caused extensive damage. Israeli forces also attacked the Rafah crossing for the fourth time since 10/7. Rockets were fired at Israel, causing damage and injuries. In Lebanon, Israel said it attacked Hezbollah targets. (AP 10/7; AJ, HA 10/15; AJ, HA, REU, UNOCHA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 10/16; AJ, HA 10/17)

The Gaza Ministry of Health said at least 2,808 Palestinians have been killed and 10,850 have been injured in Israeli airstrikes on Gaza since 10/7, including 47 entire families consisting of 500 people. In addition, Israeli media reported that 1,500 Palestinian militants have been killed near Gaza. 58 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces and settlers in the West Bank and East Jerusalem since 10/7, including 12 children. More than 1,176 have been injured, including at least 300 with live ammunition. Israeli officials recorded no new fatalities, leaving the Israeli death toll at around 1,300 Israelis and foreign nationals; 4,121 have been injured since 10/7. The UN reported that over 1 million Palestinians have been displaced since 10/7 and that since 11 p.m. on 10/12 there has been a complete electricity blackout due to the Israeli blockade. At least 11,887 housing units have been destroyed in Israeli airstrikes since 10/7. The Palestinian civil defense team said that more than 1,000 Palestinians were under the rubble of buildings in Gaza. 7 members of the civil defense team were killed in Israeli airstrikes on the Palestinian civil defense headquarters in at-Tuffah, bringing the number of humanitarian staff killed since 10/7 to 31. The Palestinian Journalists Syndicate said 11 Palestinian journalists have been killed in Israeli airstrikes since 10/7. (AJ, HA 10/15; AJ, HA, REU, REU, REU, UNOCHA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 10/16; AJ 10/17)

UNRWA said in a tweet that people claiming to be from the Gaza Ministry of Health seized fuel and medical equipment from its compound in Gaza City, before later deleting the tweet. An UNRWA statement later said that there had been no looting of UNRWA warehouses. (HA, HA 10/16; HA 10/17)

Palestinian prisoner Kayed al-Fafsous suspended his 75-day hunger strike after his family urged him to end it, fearing that Israel will let him die as part of its campaign against Palestinians related to the war with Hamas. Al-Fafsous was protesting being held in administrative detention. (WAFA 10/16)

Hamas released a video of one of its captives, a 21-year-old dual French Israeli citizen, who said in the video, “I'm in Gaza. I came back early on Saturday morning from a party in the Sderot area. I was seriously injured in the arm. They brought me to Gaza, and they took me to the hospital here for three hours. They've been taking care of me, providing medication. I'm just asking that you bring me back home as soon as possible to my family, my parents, my siblings. Please get me out of here as quickly as possible.” Hamas military spokesperson Abu Obeida said Hamas is holding around 200-250 people captive and that they are being treated with dignity and respect. He added that 22 captives have been killed in Israeli airstrikes since 10/7 and that non-Israeli captives will be released when “circumstances allow.” (AJ 10/15; AJ, HA, HA, NYT, REU 10/16; HA, REU, REU 10/17)

Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh spoke with Turkish foreign minister Hakan Fidan about the release of Hamas-held captives and with Malaysian prime minister Anwar Ibrahim. (AJ 10/15; AJ, HA, REU, REU 10/16)

PLO secretary-general Hussein al-Sheikh met with UN special coordinator for the Middle East peace process Tor Wennesland in Ramallah, discussing the need for an immediate ceasefire and humanitarian aid to enter Gaza. PA president Mahmoud Abbas spoke with UK prime minister Rishi Sunak and Russian president Vladimir Putin. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 10/16)

Israeli military spokesperson Daniel Hagari said 199 people have been taking captive by Hamas in Gaza. The Israeli prime minister’s office denied reports that there will be a ceasefire to allow foreigners to leave Gaza. (AJ 10/15; AJ 10/16)

Israel said it allowed some aid to enter Gaza via the Rafah crossing but did not allow fuel to enter. Egypt said humanitarian aid for Gaza is stuck in Egypt as Israel is not cooperating in allowing the aid to enter Gaza. The EU said it would launch a humanitarian air bridge to Egypt with aid to Gaza and the UN began shipping aid to Egypt in anticipation of being able to enter Gaza. (AJ 10/15; AJ, AP, HA, HA, NYT, REU, REU, REU 10/16; WAFA 10/17)

Hezbollah said it started destroying Israeli surveillance cameras near the Blue Line. (AP 10/16)

The Israeli military said it will evacuate Israeli residents from 28 communities within 1.2 miles of the Blue Line. (HA, REU, REU 10/16; HA, HA 10/17)

The Knesset National Security Committee approved new regulations making it easier for Israelis to obtain a gun license. 41,000 Israelis have applied for a license since 10/7. (HA 10/16; WAFA 10/17; HA 10/24)

The U.S. said 30 U.S. citizens were killed since 10/7 and 13 are unaccounted for. (HA 10/15; HA 10/16)

Iranian foreign minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian told Iranian state TV that a “preemptive strike” against Israel could be expected as Israel continues to attack Gaza. Amir-Abdollahian suggested the strike would be carried out by Hezbollah and would be related to a potential Israeli ground invasion of Gaza. Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson Nasser Kanaani said that Iran considers the U.S. militarily involved in the conflict. (AJ 10/15; AJ, AJ, HA, NYT, REU, REU 10/16; AJ 10/17)

Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu told President Putin that Israel would not end its attacks on Gaza until Israel had eliminated Hamas’ military and governmental capabilities. Netanyahu also spoke with UAE president Mohammed bin Zayed. (AJ 10/15; HA, REU 10/16; HA, REU 10/17)

U.S. secretary of state Antony Blinken visited Israel again after touring the Middle East over the weekend, meeting with Prime Minister Netanyahu, the Israeli war cabinet, and President Isaac Herzog. Blinken said Israel had agreed to develop a plan to get humanitarian aid to Gaza without it benefiting Hamas. Blinken also spoke with Foreign Minister Fidan, who condemned Israel’s “inhumane” actions in Gaza. President Joe Biden spoke with German chancellor Olaf Scholz and Egyptian president Abdel-Fattah el-Sisi. The Wall Street Journal reported that the U.S. has prepared around 2,000 soldiers for potential deployment to Israel to serve as advisors and for medical support. (AJ 10/15; AJ, HA, NYT, REU, REU 10/16; AP, HA, REU 10/17; HA 10/18)

The UN Security Council rejected a Russian resolution calling for a humanitarian ceasefire and condemning violence and terrorism against civilians. 5 countries voted for the resolution (China, Russia the UAE, Gabon, and Mozambique), 4 voted against (the U.S., the UK, France, and Japan), while 6 abstained. The U.S. criticized the resolution for not condemning Hamas. (AJ, HA, REU 10/16; AP, WAFA 10/17)

U.S. senators Brian Schatz (D-HI), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), and Peter Welch (D-VT) called on Israel to protect civilians in Gaza. 14 U.S. senators, 8 Democrats, 5 Republican, and 1 independent, called on President Biden to freeze $6 billion in Iranian assets held in Qatar that the U.S. exchanged for the release of people held in Iran last month. 13 members of the House co-sponsored a resolution urging Biden to call for an immediate ceasefire. The resolution spearheaded was by Cori Bush (D-MO), Rashida Tlaib (D-MI), Summer Lee (D-PA), Delia Ramirez (D-IL), and Andre Carson (D-IN). (AJ 10/15; AJ, AJ, HA 10/16)

Pakistani foreign minister Jalil Abbas Jilani called Israel’s attacks on Gaza genocide. Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau called for the opening of a humanitarian corridor in Gaza to allow delivery of food, fuel, and water. Scottish first minister Humza Yousaf said that he fears that his in-laws, who are visiting Gaza, could die any day as they are running out of water and food. Prime Minister Sunak characterized the Hamas operation on 10/7 as a “pogrom” while addressing the House of Commons and said, “Israel must defend itself in line with international humanitarian law.” Sunak said 6 UK citizens have been killed and 10 are missing. Furthermore, Sunak said the UK would increase its aid to Palestinians by $12.12 million. Sunak also spoke to Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, who warned him about making “provocative steps” and reminded him of the “unkept promises [made] to Palestine.” (AJ 10/15; HA, HA, REU, REU, REU, REU 10/16; HA 10/17)

U.S. police arrested 50 demonstrators outside the White House who were calling for a ceasefire. The demonstration was arranged by Jewish American groups, including IfNotNow. (AJ 10/15; HA 10/16)

The BBC apologized for describing thousands of protesters in London on 10/14 as backing Hamas, calling the reporting misleading. (AJ 10/15)

The New York Times reported that Meta, the parent company of Instagram and Facebook, was accused of suppressing pro-Palestinian content on its platforms. (NYT 10/16)

The UN Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, and Israel, concluded that “Israeli forces used lethal forces without justification under international human rights law,” when soldiers killed Al Jazeera journalist Shireen Abu Akleh in Jenin in 5/11/2022. (AJ 10/15; AJ 10/16)

Republican presidential candidate and former U.S. president Donald Trump said he would expel immigrants who are anti-Zionists, support Hamas, or are Communist, Marxist, or Fascist. (HA, REU 10/16)

In the West Bank, Palestinians shot and injured 2 Israeli settlers near Joseph’s Tomb. Israeli settlers threw stones at Palestinian vehicles traveling between Nablus and Tulkarm. 20 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in Idhna, Hebron, al-Arroub refugee camp, Burqa, Kafr Qalil, Meithalun, and Tulkarm refugee camp; during the raid in Kafr Qalil, several Palestinian-owned vehicles were seized. In East Jerusalem, 3 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in Silwan. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire at Palestinian farmers east of al-Qarara; no injuries were reported. (HA, HA, HA, JDF, TOI, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 4/11; MEMO 4/12; PCHR 4/14; UNOCHA 4/23)

Palestinian prisoners held in administrative detention and their lawyers boycotted the Israeli military courts for the 100th day. (AI 4/11; MDW, WAFA 4/17)

Reuters reported that at least 5 EU officials, including EU justice commissioner Didier Reynders, were targeted by Israeli spyware from either the NSO Group or QuaDream. (REU, TOI 4/11)

The World Bank approved a $23.5 million grant to improve sustainable energy in the West Bank and Gaza. (WAFA 4/12)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in Beita, injuring 7 with rubber-coated bullets and 30 with tear gas. Israeli forces also violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in Bayt Dajan, injuring 30 with tear gas. Elsewhere, Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in Ras al-Joura and al-Khader, causing tear-gas related injuries. 10 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in and around Husan, Bani Na‘im, Hebron, Tulkarm, Ramallah, and ‘Askar refugee camp. In East Jerusalem, 1 Israeli settler attacked 1 Palestinian activist in Sheikh Jarrah during a protest against evictions in neighborhood. Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinians protesting the demolitions at al-Yusufiya Muslim cemetery, injuring 3 with sound bombs and arresting 7; Israel said that Palestinian stone throwers had damaged 1 police vehicle. 5 others were arrested in Shu‘fat, the Old City, and al-Tur. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire at Palestinian agricultural lands east of Khan Yunis; no injuries were reported. Off the coast of Gaza, Israeli naval forces opened fire at Palestinian fishermen within 3 nautical miles west of Gaza; no injuries were reported. In Israel, Palestinians protested in Umm al-Fahm for the Israeli police’s inaction against gun violence in Palestinian towns and cities. (MEMO, WAFA, WAFA 10/29; AJ, WAFA 10/31; PCHR 11/4)

Israeli forces closed down al-Ibrahimi Mosque for Palestinian worshippers between 3 p.m. on 10/29 and 10 p.m. on 10/30, only allowing Jewish worshippers. (WAFA 10/30)

PA president Mahmoud Abbas dispatched the head of the Detainees Affairs Commission Qadri Abu Bakr on a 2-week tour to meet with leaders in Egypt, Belgium, and France in order to gather international support for the Palestinian prisoners hunger striking against their administrative detention. 1 of the prisoners has been on hunger strike for 107 days, another for 101 days, and 3 others for more than 65 days. (WAFA 10/30)

Israel’s president Isaac Herzog apologized, in a speech, on behalf of Israel for the massacre of Palestinians in Kafr Qasim on 10/29/1956. (HA, MEMO 10/29)

Israeli ambassador to the UN Gilad Erdan tore the UN human rights council yearly report to pieces at the UN general assembly podium. The report condemned Israel’s attacks on Gaza on May, dubbed Operation Guardian of the Wall by Israel. (HA, MEMO 10/30)

ABC News reported that Facebook employees expressed concern over the restrictions on the Palestinian activist Muhammed El Kurd’s Instagram account during Israel’s May assault on Gaza. The document was leaked to ABC News by a congressional staffer after the testimony by Frances Haugen, a Facebook whistleblower. The Facebook employees did not understand why El Kurd’s Instagram story was being limited by Facebook. (ABC, MEE 10/29; WAFA 10/31)

The Texas-based company A&R Engineering and Testing Inc., along with the Council on American-Islamic Relations, filed a lawsuit against the city of Houston and the Attorney General of Texas, saying that the state’s anti-boycott of Israel laws are unconstitutional, citing the 1st and 14th amendments. The lawsuit was filed after the engineering company on 10/13 was told to sign a pledge that the company is not engaging in a boycott of Israel; the company has been providing services for the city of Houston for 17 years. (WAFA 11/5)

In the West Bank, PA forces arrested, for the 3d day in a row, Palestinian activists critical of the PA; at least 3 were rounded up. Israeli settlers set up 2 mobile homes in Deir Istiya. Israeli settlers also set fire to dozens of olive trees near Burin. Israeli forces razed a tract of land near Qalqilya to expand a settler-only road and sealed the entrances to Sinjil. Israeli forces arrested 5 Palestinians in and around Birzeit, Tulkarm, Kafr Qaddum, and Hebron. In Gaza, Israeli forces fired missiles at structures in Khan Yunis, Jabalia refugee camp, and Shuja‘iya, causing damage but no injuries. Israel said it was responding to incendiary balloons sent to Israel from Gaza. 2 Palestinians were arrested at the Erez crossing after receiving calls to come to the crossing for their trader permit applications. (HA, MEE, MEMO, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 8/23; AJ, AP, MEMO, MEMO, MEMO, REU, WAFA 8/24; HA 8/25; PCHR 8/26)

Egypt said it had closed the Rafah crossing until further notice. Egyptian officials said the closure was connected to Egypt’s efforts to broker a long-term ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas. (MEE, REU 8/22; AJ, ALM, AP, HA, MEMO 8/23; HA 8/24)

1 Palestinian on administrative detention ended his hunger strike after reassurances from Israel that it would not extend his detention. The man was placed on administrative detention after being arrested on 2/22/2020 and had been hunger striking for 43 days. (WAFA 8/23)

Human Rights Watch (HRW) said that Israel’s targeting of 4 high-rise residential buildings in Gaza during Operation Guardians of the Wall violated international law. HRW also called on Israel to produce the evidence it says it has in claiming malicious activity was carried out in the high-rises. (AJ, ALM, AP, HA, MEE, MEMO 8/23; MEMO 8/25)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers marched across the West Bank to protest the presence of Palestinians living in Area C, closing off much of Area C to Palestinians. Most of the marches were directed toward the Evyatar settlement outpost, which Israeli settlers are trying to rapidly expand to prevent the new Israeli government from evacuating it. Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in al-Wad, leading to tear-gas related injuries. Israeli forces also delivered stop-work orders for 2 houses in Idhna and a demolition order for a 2.2-mile-long electric power line near Hebron. Elsewhere, Israeli forces continued blocking the main road to ‘Azun for the 6th day in a row. 15 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in and around Bayt Liqya, Tulkarm, Zababdeh, Kafr Qaddum, Aida refugee camp, and Bayt Umar; during the raid in Bayt Umar, Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinian protesters, leading to tear-gas related injuries. PA forces arrested prominent Israel and PA critic Issa Amro; Amro was later released in the morning of 6/22. In East Jerusalem, 1 firebomb caused minor damage in Shaykh Jarrah; Israeli police arrested 2 Palestinian minors suspected of throwing it. Subsequently, 1 Israeli setter used pepper spray on Palestinians in the area, and other Israeli settlers and Palestinians threw lawn furniture at each other. Palestinians were also said to have shot off firecrackers at Israeli settlers. Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinians in the area, injuring 20 with rubber-coated bullets and tear gas. Israel continues to prevent Palestinians not living in Shaykh Jarrah from entering while all Jewish Israelis are allowed to enter. Elsewhere, 1 Palestinian started demolishing his own commercial structure in Jabal Mukabir. (HA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 6/21; AJ, AP, HA, HA, MEE, WAFA 6/22; PCHR 6/24)

Israel allowed a small amount of agricultural and textile products to be exported from Gaza for the 1st time since 5/8. Israel still maintains an even stricter blockade of Gaza than before “Operation Guardian of the Walls” in May. Gaza’s Pepsi factory, for example, sent home all its employees on 6/20 due to running out of carbon dioxide gas and syrup, which it has been unable to secure due to the Israeli blockade. (AJ, AP, HA, REU, REU, WAFA 6/21)

Israel’s defense minister Benny Gantz signed an administrative detention order against a Palestinian citizen of Israel from Lydda. The man is the 3d Palestinian citizen of Israel with orders signed to be put in administrative detention since the middle of May. 12 Palestinian residents of East Jerusalem have also had administrative detention orders signed against them. 13 other Israeli citizens are held in administrative detention but with no order signed against them. It was unclear if any of the 13 were Jewish Israelis. (HA 6/23)

PA president Mahmoud Abbas called on all Palestinian factions to resume national dialogue. (WAFA 6/21)

Hamas’s Yahya Sinwar said that a meeting with the UN special coordinator for the Middle East peace process Tor Wennesland had gone poorly and that he would consult with the Hamas military wing to find a response to Israel’s continued tightening of its blockade after the latest escalation between Israel and Hamas in May. Sinwar and Wennesland met to discuss how the UN could mediate to strengthen the Hamas-Israel ceasefire. (HA 6/21; AJ 6/22)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers attacked 2 Palestinians in Ma’in, causing light injuries. Israeli settlers also set fire to a Palestinian-owned vehicle in Rujeib. Elsewhere, Israeli settlers threw stones at Palestinian vehicles traveling between Jenin and Nablus. Israeli settlers also attacked Palestinians in Burin, demolished parts of a house, and set fields on fire. Israeli forces shot and killed 1 Palestinian child during a late-night raid in Tubas and injured 1 other by running him over. Israeli forces also shot and killed 1 Palestinian during a late-night raid in al-Fawar refugee camp. Elsewhere, Israeli forces shot and killed 1 Palestinian at a checkpoint near Huwwara, claiming he had tried to attack 2 Israeli soldiers. Israeli forces also violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in Hebron, injuring 2, including 1 with live ammunition. Separately, Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in Yatta, injuring 1 with live ammunition and 2 with rubber-coated bullets. Israeli forces also violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in Bayt Umar, injuring 1 minor with live ammunition and 3 others with rubber-coated bullets. Meanwhile, Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinians protesting in Bethlehem, Harmala, al-Khadir, and Dayr Sharif, resulting in tear-gas related injuries. Israeli forces also violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in Beita, injuring 3 using rubber-coated bullets. Elsewhere, Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in Tulkarm, injuring 3 with live ammunition. 40 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in and around Hebron, al-Fawar refugee camp, Nablus, Tulkarm, Tubas, and Qalqilya. In East Jerusalem, 2 Israeli settlers attacked 1 Palestinian with a sharp tool, slicing her face as she was leaving the Haram al-Sharif compound. Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in al-Tur, injuring 1 with a rubber-coated bullet; others suffered tear-gas related injuries and 2 were arrested. 6 other Palestinians were arrested during house raids in the Old City, Jabal Mukabir, Silwan, and Shu‘fat. In Gaza, 34 Palestinians were killed, including 6 children, and dozens injured, raising the comprehensive death toll since 5/10 from 30 to 64, including 16 children. The casualties included: 4 in a drone strike on a car east of Bayt Lahiya; 8, including 3 children, in 3 air strikes on apartment buildings in Gaza City; 1 child in an air strike on a butcher in Gaza City; 6 in a drone strike on a car in Gaza city, including 3 inside the car and 3 passersby; 1, and 1 wounded, in another air strike on a vehicle in Gaza City; 1 in an air strike in Khan Yunis; 1 in an air strike on agricultural lands near Khuza‘a; 4, and 2 injured, in a drone strike on Nuseirat refugee camp; 2, and 1 child injured, in an air strike on a liquefied petroleum gas distribution vehicle in Khan Yunis; 2, and 3 wounded, including 1 child, in an air strike on a house in Khan Yunis; 2, and 2 wounded, all children, after a helicopter fired missiles at a gas station in al-Fukhari; and the body of 1 Palestinian was found in rubble near Bayt Hanun, it was assessed that he was killed in an air strike on 5/10; the body of 1 Palestinian was found near a mosque in Rafah, the Palestinian Centre for Human Rights said it was unclear if he had been killed by debris from an intercepted rocket or in an Israeli air strike. Hamas reported that the interior ministry and the passport office along with other government buildings had been hit by Israeli air strikes. Israeli air strikes also demolished 2 high-rise buildings, the 10-story al-Jawhara building, and the 14-story al-Shorouq building, which housed news outlets and other offices, and the headquarters of the interior ministry and UNRWA schools. In Israel, 1 Israeli soldier was killed and 2 injured from an anti-tank missile fired from Gaza and 1 child succumbed to injuries sustained in Sderot, raising the Israeli death toll to 7. Dozens of rockets were also fired at Israel from Gaza, most of them intercepted. A mob of Jewish-Israelis pulled 1 Palestinian-Israeli out of his car and beat him while tv cameras were rolling in Bat Yam; the man was said to be in serious condition. A mob of Jewish-Israelis also raided a number of Palestinian-owned businesses in Tel Aviv, causing severe damage. 1 Jewish-Israeli man was attacked by 5 Palestinian-Israelis in ‘Akka; he was said to be in serious condition. Jewish-Israelis also attacked a tent set up to mourn the death of 1 Palestinian-Israeli who was shot by a Jewish-Israeli on 5/10 in Lydda, throwing stones at the mourners. Elsewhere in Lydda, 1 Jewish-Israeli was shot and injured and 2 more were injured in stabbings, 21 Palestinian-Israelis were injured, including 1 by gunshot. Israeli police announced a nighttime curfew in Lydda from 8 p.m. to 4 a.m. 1 Palestinian-Israeli man was injured when rammed by a car­ and beaten near Or Akiva. 1 Palestinian-Israeli was lightly injured by a mob of Jewish-Israelis while driving in Tiberias. 1 Jewish-Israeli was injured in a stabbing incident in Tamra. A mob of Jewish-Israelis also attacked 1 Palestinian-Israeli in Haifa. (AJ, NYT 5/11; AJ, AJ, AJ, AJ, AP, AP, AP, AP, BBC, CNN, HA, HA, HA, NYT, NYT, PCHR, REU, REU, TOI, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 5/12; AP, CNN, HA, PCHR, WAFA, WAFA 5/13; PCHR 5/14; TOI 5/16; HA 5/18; WAFA 5/19; PCHR 5/20; MEE 5/21; HA, NYT 5/26; HA 5/27)

1 Palestinian prisoner suspended a 56-day-long hunger strike as Israel promised not to renew his administrative detention after 7/17. (WAFA 5/12)

PA president Mahmoud Abbas discussed the current situation with EU high representative Josep Borrell, King Abdullah II of Jordan, and Iraqi president Barham Salih. A White House statement also said that U.S. secretary of state Antony Blinken spoke with President Abbas and they discussed “the violence in Jerusalem, the West Bank and Gaza, and the Secretary expressed his condolences for the lives lost as a result. The Secretary condemned the rocket attacks and emphasized the need to de-escalate tensions and bring the current violence to an end.” (HA, WAFA 5/12)

At a security cabinet meeting, Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other ministers decided not to accept a potential ceasefire and continue its attack on Gaza for the time being. (HA 5/13)

Israeli president Reuven Rivlin condemned what he called a “pogrom” by “an Arab mob” on 5/11, despite the majority of the violence in Israel being perpetrated against Palestinian-Israelis. (HA 5/12)

Turkey said that its president Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and Russia’s president Vladimir Putin had discussed the situation in Jerusalem and Gaza, and that Turkey had called for international action against Israel. (AJ, AP, REU 5/12)

U.S. president Joe Biden said, during a press conference, that he believes that “Israel has a right to defend itself when you have thousands of rockets flying in your territory,” and that his “hope is that we’ll see this coming to conclusions sooner than later.” President Biden also spoke with Prime Minister Netanyahu, where he gave his “unwavering support for Israel’s security and for Israel’s legitimate right to defend itself and its people, while protecting civilians,” according to the readout. The Biden administration also dispatched deputy assistant secretary of state for Israel and Palestine Hady Amr to Israel for talks with Palestinian and Israeli officials. The White House said that senior officials have had more than 25 calls with officials from Israel, the PA, Qatar, Tunisia, Jordan, and Egypt about the situation. (HA 5/12; NYT 5/13)

25 house democrats signed a letter circulated by Marie Newman (D-IL) and Mark Pocan (D-WI) urging secretary of state Antony Blinken to condemn the planned evictions of Palestinian families from Shaykh Jarrah. (HA 5/13)

ICC prosecutor Fatou Bensouda said that she was following the situation in Gaza and Jerusalem with concern. (MEE, REU, WAFA 5/12)

The UN security council held a 2d meeting in 3 days to discuss the escalation of the conflict between Palestine and Israel. (TOI 5/12)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers vandalized 1 Palestinian-owned agricultural structure in Kafr al-Dik. Israeli forces delivered demolition orders for 7 Palestinian-owned homes in Ma‘in. 17 Palestinians were arrested during raids in and around al-Khadir, Husan, Hebron, Nablus, Tulkarm, Abu Dis, ‘Azun, Beita, Ramallah, al-Bireh, Sabastiyya, and Jenin refugee camp. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces seized, for a 2d time, tents sheltering a family whose house was demolished in Issawiyya. 11 Palestinians were arrested during raids in Issawiyya, Shu‘fat refugee camp, and al-Tur; confrontations erupted during the raids in Issawiyya, leading to tear-gas related injuries and damage to property. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire at agricultural lands east of Dayr al-Balah; no injuries were reported. (PCHR, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 3/4; PCHR 3/11)

Israeli authorities allowed changes to the structure of al-Ibrahimi Mosque, allowing the construction of an elevator to the designated Jewish area of the mosque. (WAFA 3/4)

PA president Mahmoud Abbas extended the COVID-19-related state of emergency for another 30 days. (WAFA 3/4)

According to Haaretz reporting, the Shin Bet has been threatening some Palestinian activists with administrative detention if they run in the Palestinian Legislative Council elections. Haaretz confirmed that at least 1 Palestinian activist was arrested and put in administrative detention for 4 months after announcing that he would run in the elections. (HA 3/4)

Danish prime minister Mette Frederiksen and Austrian chancellor Sebastian Kurz met with Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem to discuss a joint COVID-19 plan. Prime Minister Frederiksen had, prior to the trip, praised Israel’s vaccination campaign and said that Denmark is considering opening a vaccine factory with and/or in Israel, leading her own left-wing coalition to denounce her trip. The EU expressed dismay at the 2 European leaders’ trip, saying that cooperation on COVID-19 response was an EU issue 1st and foremost. (POL, POL 3/1; GDN, HA, REU 3/2; GDN, POL 3/3; AP, DR.DK, HA, POL, REU, TOI 3/4)

U.S. vice president Kamala Harris spoke with Prime Minister Netanyahu to discuss the ICC investigation into Israel. Vice President Harris expressed support for the normalization deals between Israel, the U.S., and several Arab and African countries during the Trump administration. (REU 3/4; AJ, HA, TOI 3/5)

Israeli defense minister Benny Gantz told FOX News that Israel is constantly updating preparations to strike Iran. Defense Minister Gantz also said that Hezbollah has hundreds of thousands of missiles. (AP, AJ, FOX, HA 3/5)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers and Israeli forces leveled some 15 dunams (3.7 acres) of land planted with olive trees southeast of Tulkarm. 10 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in and around Hebron, Bethlehem, Jenin, Jericho, and Abu Dis. During a raid in Bayt Umar, Israeli forces and Palestinians clashed, leading to tear-gas related injuries. In East Jerusalem, 1 Israeli settler stabbed 1 Palestinian minor in the Old City, causing moderate injuries. 4 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids. Off the coast of Gaza, Israeli naval forces opened fire on Palestinian fishermen west of Bayt Lahiya; no injuries were reported. In Israel, Palestinians protested the killing of a mentally disabled Palestinian citizen of Israel on 5/13. The man had pulled out a knife while at the hospital for an examination but did not use it; when he got in a car, hospital security guards pulled him out and he lightly injured 1 guard, to which guards responded by shooting him 5 times while he was lying incapacitated on the ground. (HA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 5/18; PCHR 5/21)

1 Israeli settler was indicted for creating fake military checkpoints in the West Bank, using them to carjack Palestinian drivers. According to the indictment, he managed to steal 3 Palestinian-owned vehicles. (TOI 5/18)

The Israeli Prison Service transferred 1 Palestinian hunger-striker held in administrative detention to solitary confinement. (WAFA 5/18)

The PA foreign ministry summoned the head of the Austrian representative to Palestine for questioning after an Austrian representative questioned the legality of prosecuting Israel at the International Criminal Court. (WAFA 5/18)

In a statement congratulating Israel with the formation of its new government on 5/17, the EU high representative for foreign affairs Josep Borrell also reaffirmed the EU position that the union does not and will not recognize any changes to the 1967 borders unless agreed to by both parties, including maintaining that East Jerusalem will be the future capital of Palestine and that annexation of West Bank territory would be in violation of international law. Meanwhile, the Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau similarly stressed Canada’s commitment to international law in his congratulations to Israel on their new government. (EEAS, HA 5/18; WAFA 5/19)

Germany donated $760,000 to the Augusta Victoria hospital in East Jerusalem, which treats Palestinians from the West Bank and Gaza. Separately, India provided $2 million to UNRWA core programming. (WAFA, WAFA 5/18)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces issued a stop-work order for a road near al-Mughayyir and seized nearby machinery. Israeli forces also distributed 8 demolition notices for Palestinian-owned homes south of Hebron. 15 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in and around Bethlehem, Bayt Umar, Abu Dis, Ramallah, Nablus, and Tulkarm. Israeli settlers threw stones at Palestinian homes in Madama, causing damage. In East Jerusalem, 2 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in the Old City and Issawiyya. Israeli Channel 13 released a video showing half a dozen Israeli policemen attacking a Palestinian near Shu‘fat refugee camp for failing to show his ID. Off the coast of Gaza, Israeli naval forces opened fire on Palestinian fishermen west of Jabalia; no injuries were reported. In Israel, 5 international activists, including a member of the Finish parliament, were arrested by Israeli forces after trying to cut through the fence to Gaza in an act of solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 1/13; TOI 1/14; HA, PCHR 1/16)

Israel relocated 33 Palestinian minors held at Ofer Prison in the West Bank to Damoun Prison in Israel. Israel also extended the administrative detention of a women scheduled to be released on 1/15 for another 6 months. The woman has been in administrative detention since 6/15/2019. (AJ, WAFA, WAFA 1/13)

In the West Bank, the Israel Electric Corporation cut power for 10s of thousands of Palestinians in Ramallah for 3 hours between 2pm and 5pm for the 2d day in a row. Israeli forces demolished a Palestinian-owned home in al-Khadir near Bethlehem and razed the flooring of a car repair shop in Dayr Razih near Hebron; during the latter event, several Palestinian-owned vehicles were damaged. Israeli forces arrested 20 Palestinians during late-night raids in and around Hebron, Tulkarm, Nablus, and Ramallah. In East Jerusalem, 2 Palestinians were arrested during a late-night raid in Issawiyya. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 12/16; PCHR 12/19)

A Palestinian journalist arrested last week was placed on administrative detention. (WAFA 12/16; AJ 12/17)

U.S. congress rejected a request by the Trump administration for $175 million for a special fund in support of the Middle East peace plan. According to Haaretz reporting, the request was rejected due to lack of confidence among the congressional members that the Trump administration would be able to make any tangible progress in its peace plan, which has still not been revealed. (HA 12/17)

IDF troops shoot and kill 2 Palestinians and injure at least 2 more in clashes sparked by an early morning raid in Jenin r.c. An IDF spokesperson alleges that the clashes began when armed Palestinians opened fire on Israeli soldiers conducting an unspecified operation in the camp. Afterward, IDF troops arrest 3 Palestinians during raids in and around Jenin. Later in the day, hundreds of Palestinian mourners march through Jenin at a funeral for the 2 men. Separately, the IDF arrests 4 Palestinians and issues 1 arrest summons during late-night raids nr. Jenin and Hebron; and patrols in and around Qalqilya, Tulkarm, and Hebron. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces demolish 1 home each in Jabal Mukabir and Silwan. They assault a Palestinian youth in Silwan during the operation and arrest 3 Palestinians during late-night raids in Qalandia r.c. Israeli forces, including 1 soldier wearing an Israeli flag draped over his shoulder, raid Haram al-Sharif, increasing tensions at the sanctuary. (EI, HA, MNA, WAFA, YA 7/12; HA, PCHR 7/13; PCHR 7/20)

Gaza’s power plant shuts down because of a fuel shortage, instantly worsening Gaza’s electricity crisis. The 4 m. L of fuel that Egypt has shipped to Gaza in recent weeks is gone and the power lines feeding Gaza’s electricity grid are not supplying electricity, according to Gazan officials. (DPA 7/12; EI, HA 7/13)

The military court at Ofer Prison issues imprisoned PFLP leader and PLC mbr. Jarrar a 6-mo. administrative detention. IDF troops arrested her at her home in Ramallah on 7/1. (MNA, WAFA 7/12)

Israel’s security cabinet decides to temporarily suspend Qalqilya’s expansion into Area C of the West Bank, which was set to include 5,000 new Palestinian homes by 2035. After the plan was 1st reported on 6/14, ultranationalist mbrs. of Israel’s ruling coalition complained that the move would undermine the settlement enterprise. (HA, JP, MNA, TOI, YA 7/13)

The IDF maintains, for a 2d day, the closure of Araqa where 2 Palestinians were killed on 2/14; declares it a closed military zone. They conduct raids in the village, arresting 2 Palestinians. Meanwhile, IDF troops conduct raids in al-Am‘ari r.c. nr. Ramallah, arresting 2 Palestinians and sparking clashes with stonethrowing and armed youths; 42 Palestinians and 1 Israeli soldier are injured. Late at night, they escort 17 busloads of Israelis to Joseph’s Tomb outside Nablus to perform religious rites, sparking more clashes with stone-throwers; there are no serious injuries. Israeli forces demolish 20 residential structures in a village nr. Nablus; deliver stop-work orders to 2 homes under construction in Qalqilya. Throughout the day, the IDF conducts raids and house searches in 2 villages each nr. Jenin and Salfit and 1 nr. Bethlehem, as well as in Qalqilya and Hebron, arresting 11 Palestinians and issuing an arrest summons to 1; patrols in 3 villages nr. Hebron and 1 nr. Tulkarm. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats nr. Gaza City, causing no damage. Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops open fire on Palestinian farmers nr. Khan Yunis, causing no injuries. Meanwhile, the Egyptian authorities keep the Rafah border crossing open for a 3d and final day. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces assault and arrest a Palestinian youth outside the Old City after they search and find a knife on her person. They also arrest 1 Palestinian on a raid in Issawiyya. (HA, JP, MNA, TOI, WAFA 2/15; TOI 2/16; OCHA, PCHR 2/18)

Palestinian hunger striker al-Qiq refuses an Israeli court offer to transfer him from Emek Medical Center in Afula to a hospital in East Jerusalem, demanding to be treated at a Palestinian hospital in the West Bank. Al-Qiq has been on hunger strike since 11/24, days after he was captured from his Ramallah home and held under administrative detention. (MNA 2/16)

The IDF maintains its closure of Nahalin village for a 4th day. Meanwhile, IDF troops violently disperse Palestinian, Israeli, and international activists at Friday demonstrations against the Israeli occupation and the administrative detention of Palestinian prisoner al-Qiq in 5 areas nr. Ramallah (Bil‘in, Ni‘lin, Nabi Salih, Jalazun r.c., and outside Ofer Prison), 1 village nr. Qalqilya, and in 4 areas along Gaza’s border; 13 Palestinians are injured. IDF troops conduct house searches and raids in 1 village nr. Qalqilya, as well as Tulkarm and Tulkarm r.c., arresting 2 Palestinian journalists; patrol in 2 villages nr. Qalqilya, 6 nr. Hebron, and 1 each nr. Jenin and Tulkarm. Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops open fire on Palestinian farmers nr. al-Bureij r.c., causing no injuries. (AFP, MNA, SAM 2/12; PCHR 2/18)

Israeli PM Netanyahu speaks with EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini, effectively ending the suspension of peace process–related talks with the EU that Netanyahu ordered on 11/29. The Israeli govt. then confirms that the suspension is over. (HA, JP, TOI, YA 2/12; MNA 2/13)

In Israel, a suspected Palestinian stabs and injures a Jewish Israeli in Rahat nr. Beersheba, then flees the scene. Later in Ashqelon, Israeli forces shoot and kill a Sudanese national after he allegedly stabs and injures an Israeli soldier. Meanwhile in the West Bank, IDF troops confiscate the work permits of a number of Palestinians trying to cross into Israel nr. Jenin (a PLO spokesperson says 10 permits have been revoked so far, and that the Israelis decided to do so hours after lifting the closure of nearby Qabatiya on 2/6). IDF troops conduct raids and house searches in 1 village and Tulkarm r.c. nr. Tulkarm, 1 village each nr. Nablus and Jenin, and 2 nr. Salfit, as well as Aida r.c. and 1 village nr. Bethlehem, arresting 13 Palestinians and issuing an arrest summons to 1; patrol in 4 villages and al-‘Arub r.c. nr. Hebron. (MNA, WAFA, YA 2/7; PCHR 2/11)

 On the 75th day of his hunger strike, Palestinian prisoner al-Qiq rejects an Israeli military court offer to be released on 5/1, demanding an immediate end to his administrative detention and treatment in a Palestinian medical facility upon release. (MNA 2/7; SAM 2/8)

Hamas and Fatah officials meet in Doha to start a new round of mediated talks on Palestinian national reconciliation. They discuss the possible formation of a new unity PA govt., elections, and the civil servants Hamas has hired in Gaza since 2007, who have not been paid a full salary since the current PA consensus govt. was sworn in on 6/2/2014. (XIN 2/6; AnA, JP, MEMO, TOI 2/7)

As the wave of violence and the corresponding Israeli crackdown continue, a Palestinian stabs and injures 4 Israelis in Kiryat Gat, then flees the scene. A crowd of Israelis assaults and binds a bedouin Palestinian they mistake for the assailant, causing minor injuries. Israeli forces arrest the suspect hours later. Meanwhile, Israeli forces shoot and injure a Palestinian driver who was attempting to pass quickly through a checkpoint nr. Qalqilya on his way to visit his father at a hospital in Nablus; shoot and injure 2 Palestinian youths accused of stone-throwing outside a village nr. Nablus. (MNA, TOI, WAFA, YA 11/21; PCHR 11/26)

Hebron continues to be a hotspot as the IDF patrols in 1 village in the area and conducts raids in 6 others, blocking off roads to Dura, clashing with stone-throwers and arresting 5 nr. Bayt Umar, and arresting 17 others throughout the area. Additionally, in an overnight raid on al-Khalil radio station in al-Dahdah, nr. Hebron, IDF troops confiscate equipment, damage the offices, and issue a 6-mo. closure, accusing the station of inciting violence. (MNA 11/21; PCHR 11/26)

Elsewhere in the oPt, IDF troops clash with Palestinians protesting the 11/20 closure of the Aqraba junction nr. Nablus, injuring 2 Palestinians with live ammunition. The IDF also clashes with stone-throwers in Silwad, firing live ammunition and injuring 1 Palestinian. Israeli forces raid the Ramallah home of Palestinian journalist Muhammad al-Qiq, arresting and sentencing him to administrative detention for his alleged incitement through his reporting. (Al-Qiq will stage a hunger strike throughout the quarter) The IDF conducts raids in Jalazun r.c. and villages nr. Jenin and Ramallah, arresting 18 Palestinians; patrols in the Tulkarm, Jericho, and Ramallah areas. Israeli settlers block the main road leading from Nablus to Jenin and throw stones at Palestinian vehicles, causing no injuries. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 9 Palestinians youths on raids and patrols in Ras al-Amud and the Old City; assault an elderly Palestinian in Ras al-Amud. IDF troops stationed along Gaza’s border e. of Jabaliya open fire on land nr. the border fence, causing no damage or injuries. (HA, JP, MNA, TOI, WAFA, YA 11/21; PCHR 11/26; SAM 1/28)

IDF troops on the Gaza border e. of Khan Yunis fire warning shots at Palestinian farmers nr. the border fence, causing some damage but no injuries. Off the coast nr. al-Sudaniyya, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boasts, causing no injuries. Also off the coast, IAF jets fire flash bombs nr. Palestinian fishing boats. In the West Bank, Israeli forces demolish a home nr. Ramallah. IDF troops clash with stone-throwing Palestinians in c. Hebron and nr. Nablus, causing a number to suffer from tear gas inhalation. The IDF also conducts raids in a village nr. Hebron, arresting 9 Palestinians; patrols in and around Tulkarm, as well as 1 village each nr. Hebron and Qalqilya. An Israeli settler rams his car into a Palestinian child s. of Hebron, injuring him. Also, Israeli settlers damage water pipes leading to Palestinian homes in c. Hebron, causing minor flooding. In East Jerusalem, Israeli authorities ban 4 Palestinians from entering Haram al-Sharif for varying amounts of time after 3 are arrested in the sanctuary. In Tel Aviv, thousands of Palestinian citizens of Israel gather in Rabin Square to protest the housing shortage and home demolitions in their communities. Also, Palestinians across Israel conduct a general strike, responding to a call from the Arab High Follow-Up Comm. (AFP, HA, JP, MNA, WAFA 4/28; HA, MNA, PCHR 4/29; HA 4/30; PCHR 5/7)

Fired from Syria, 2 mortar shells land in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights, causing no injuries. The IDF describes them as “spillover” from the Syrian conflict. (HA, MNA, YA 4/28)

In a letter to EU foreign policy chief Mogherini, 59 mbrs. of the European parliament call for the release of PLC mbr. Jarrar, who was placed in administrative detention by the IDF on 4/2. (WAFA 4/29)

In the Gaza Strip, Egyptian authorities open the Rafah border crossing for 9 hours, only allowing Palestinians in Egypt to enter Gaza. Off the coast nr. Rafah on 2 occasions, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats, causing no damage or injuries. IDF troops along the n. border of Gaza arrest a Palestinian youth attempting to enter Israel, his father, and 1 other family mbr. E. of Khan Yunis, IDF troops open fire on agricultural land nr. the border fence, causing no injuries. In the West Bank, Israeli troops deliver stop-work orders to 2 Palestinians in Bayt Umar. The IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids nr. Ramallah, Salfit, Hebron, and Nablus; patrols nr. Ramallah, Jenin, Tulkarm, and Qalqilya. In East Jerusalem, around 50 right-wing Jewish activists, accompanied by dozens of Israeli security troops, tour Haram al-Sharif. Separately, Israeli soldiers detain a Palestinian woman nr. the Old City and arrest 1 Palestinian on a raid of his home in Jabal Mukabir. In West Jerusalem, a small group of Jewish Israelis assaults a Palestinian man nr. the Old City, leaving him moderately injured. (IMEMC, MNA, WAFA 11/30; MEMO, MNA 12/1; PCHR 12/4)

Israeli authorities decide to hold the Fatah secy.-gen. in Jerusalem in administrative detention for 5 mos. He and his brother were arrested on 11/24. (MNA 11/30)

At a press conference in Gaza City, Hamas spokesperson Sami Abu Zuhri says that the PA unity govt.’s 6-mo. interim term has expired and that a national dialogue should resume to determine the future of national unity. Senior Fatah official Faisal Abu Shahla disputes Abu Zuhri, saying that there never was an agreement that the unity govt. would only last 6 mos. (MNA 11/30; IMEMC 12/1)

Israeli leaders defend the 11/21 Gaza cease-fire in the face of strong criticism from politicians like Yesh Atid’s Yair Lapid and Kadima’s Shaul Mofaz, who believe that the operation had not successfully restored ‘‘deterrence.’’ DM Barak asserts that ‘‘it is still not time to enter Gaza in a very wide operation and conquer it.’’ Barak also reveals that Israel dropped 1,000 times as many explosives on the Gaza Strip as landed on its soil. FM Lieberman (Yisrael Beiteinu) states that Israel will ‘‘eventually need to overthrow the Hamas regime.’’ (INN, JP, REU, YA 11/22)

In Gaza, Palestinian factions organize a major rally in Gaza City to celebrate the cease-fire and call for national reconciliation. On a rare visit to Gaza since the Hamas takeover in 2007, Fatah Central Comm. mbr. Nabil Shaath tells the crowds that Israel failed to isolate them from the West Bank. PM Ismail Haniyeh tells the rally that the ‘‘resistance fighters changed the rules of the game’’ but that the fighters should ‘‘guard’’ the truce ‘‘as long as Israel respects it.’’ (AP, MNA 11/22)

Meanwhile, the toll of Operation Pillar of Defense continues to climb: an Israeli soldier dies from injuries sustained by a Palestinian rocket attack during the operation, becoming the 2d soldier and 6th Israeli to die in the fighting. In the Gaza Strip, rescue workers pull the bodies of 2 more Palestinians from the rubble of the Dalou family home (bombed on 11/18), raising the Palestinian toll to 160. Though the ceasefire generally continues to hold, the IDF opens fire on Palestinians who protest at the border fence nr. Khan Yunis, injuring 1 man. (AP, MNA 11/22; PCHR 11/29)

In the West Bank, Israeli authorities transfer 30 Palestinian prisoners to administrative detention, apparently because of their involvement in solidarity events for Gaza. (MNA 11/22)

The IDF patrols in 1 village each nr. Jenin and Tulkarm in the afternoon; conducts house searches and arrests in 1 village nr. Jenin in the morning and in Qalqilya, al-Bireh, Balata r.c. nr. Nablus, 3 villages nr. Hebron, 1 village nr. Jenin, 1 village nr. Qalqilya, 1 village nr. Tulkarm, Nur Shams r.c. nr. Tulkarm, 1 village nr. Ramallah, and Bethlehem, 4 nearby villages, and Dahaysha r.c. and al-Azza r.c. (both nr. Bethlehem) at night. Those detained overnight include at least 5 mbrs. of the Palestinian parliament affiliated with Hamas. Right-wing Jewish extremists chop down 300 olive trees belonging to Palestinians nr. Hebron, leaving graffiti nearby reading ‘‘price tag’’ and ‘‘regards from Beersheba and Tel Aviv.’’ (MNA 11/22; MNA, ToI 11/23; PCHR 11/29)

The European Parliament passes a resolution expressing support for ‘‘Palestine’s bid to become a UN nonmember observer.’’ (EJP 11/22)

The Lebanese army disables a rocket aimed at Israel and say 2 others were fired but fell short of the border. No group claims responsibility. (REU 11/22)

Israel’s FM Avigdor Lieberman says that while it was not possible to stop the UNGA voting in favor of the PA’s bid for recognition as a non-member observer state, the Israeli government would ‘‘exact a price’’ from Abbas in response. (HA 9/29)

Israel’s planning comm. approves establishment of a new Jewish community in the n. Negev in place of the Bedouin village Umm al-Hieran, whose roughly 500 residents will be forcibly relocated. (YA 9/29)

Israel releases 2 Hamas-affiliated mbrs. of the Palestinian Council after 15 mos. in administrative detention. In the West Bank, the IDF patrols in 1 village nr. Qalqilya and 1 village nr. Tulkarm in the morning, in 1 village nr. Ramallah and 1 village nr. Jericho in the afternoon, and in 1 village nr. Jenin at night. Palestinian, Israeli, and international activists protest land confiscation nr. Karme Tzur settlement nr. Hebron. (MNA 9/29; IMEMC 9/30; PCHR 10/4)

Unidentified Palestinians fire 2 homemade Qassam rockets fr. Gaza into Israel, causing no damage or injuries. In response, Israeli warplanes make 2 late-night air strikes on a suspected weapons factory in Gaza City, lightly injuring 1 Palestinian. Later, unidentified Palestinians fire a 3d rocket into Israel, causing no damage or injuries. A Palestinian child is killed in a smuggling tunnel collapse on the Rafah border. In the West Bank, the Israel Defense Force (IDF) patrols in Tulkarm, 3 villages nr. Qalqilya, 2 villages nr. Ramallah, and 1 nr. Jericho in the morning; patrols in 1 village nr. Jenin (firing tear gas and percussion grenades at stone-throwing youths who confront them, causing no injuries), 1 nr. Jericho, 1 nr. Qalqilya in the afternoon; patrols in 2 villages nr. Qalqilya, 1 nr. Jenin, 1 nr. Jericho, and 1 nr. Ramallah late at night; conducts arrest raids, house searches nr. Qalqilya in the afternoon and nr. Hebron late at night. One of those detained in the West Bank arrest raids is Hana Shalabi, an Islamic Jihad mbr. who was released after 2 years in administrative detention in the 10/2011 Hamas-Israel prisoner swap that freed captured IDF soldier Gilad Shalit (see QU in JPS 163); she immediately begins a hunger strike to protest her renewed detention without charge. (PCHR 2/23; OCHA 2/24; NYT 4/2)

Israel’s DM Peretz, fmr. Israeli DM and current Dep. PM and Transportation M Shaul Mofaz approve Israeli defense contacts with PA municipal officials and “PA functionaries not associated with Hamas on issues deemed essential by both sides,” but not with PA Ms or dir. gens. of the ministries. Israeli DMin. officials acknowledge that Hamas has been observing the cease-fire it announced on 6/15. The IDF makes an air strike on a car with 3 AMB mbrs. driving in central Gaza City, but the men escape before the rocket hits; 3 Palestinian children (ages 5, 6, 16) are killed, 2 AMB mbrs. and 13 bystanders including many children are injured. The IDF also demolishes a Palestinian home in East Jerusalem; conducts arrest raids, house searches in and around Jenin, Nablus (clashing with Palestinian gunmen, leaving 1 Palestinian gunman dead, 2 bystanders wounded) and nr. Hebron (searching an Islamic charitable society, confiscating files, computers, cell phones). Islamic Jihad fires 3 rockets fr. Gaza into Israel, causing no damage or injuries. Israel also deports Tulkarm resident Rasmi Subayh, held in administrative detention since 9/05, to Gaza for 2 yrs. Jewish settlers in Hebron stone to death a 30-yr.-old Palestinian. (HA, MM, PNN 6/20; OSC, PSCT 6/20 in WNC 6/21; MM, NYT, OCHA, WP, WT 6/21; HA, PCHR 6/22)

The IDF reopens the Erez crossing (shut on 2/9); fatally shoots a Palestinian shepherdess grazing sheep outside Wadi al-Silqa in central Gaza after she strays too close to the border fence; conducts arrest raids, house searches nr. Tulkarm and in al-Azza r.c, Askar r.c., Balata r.c., al-Bireh, Hebron, Nablus. Israel extends the administrative detention order of jailed Change and Reform PC mbr. Omar ‘Abd al-Razzaq for 8 days; he was detained in 12/05. Jewish settlers fr. Karnei Shomron prevent Palestinians fr. traveling the Hebron–Qalqilya road. Jewish settlers fr. Tekoa settlement nr. Bethlehem chase off Palestinian farmers working their land nearby. (JAZ 2/13; IMEMC 2/15, PCHR 2/16)

The IDF fatally shoots wanted senior Izzeddin al-Qassam Brigades mbr. Imad Janajra (target of assassination on 4/23 when the IDF killed a college professor in a case of mistaken identity) outside Nablus in an apparent assassination; raids Dayr al-Balah, demolishes 1 building, fires on stonethrowing Palestinians, killing 1 Palestinian, seriously wounding 17, including a Palestinian photographer covering the scene for AFP; fires on 2 Palestinians who approach Gaza’s Qarni crossing through a closed military zone, killing 1 Palestinian while the other escapes; begins construction of the separation wall nr. Qalandia; conducts large-scale arrest raids in Hebron, taking at least 60 Palestinians to an unknown destination; conducts smaller arrest raids in Bethlehem, Nablus, Tulkarm (reportedly detaining Hamas’s Tulkarm head Rifat Nafif); confiscates 22 dunams of Palestinian land in Far‘un nr. Tulkarm; bulldozes 7 dunams of land, 1 Palestinian home in Wadi al-Silqa; demolishes a 3-story apartment building and 7 Palestinian homes, severely damages 9 homes, bulldozes 3 dunams of land in Rafah; fires at stone-throwing youths outside Nisanit settlement. Without explanation, Israel releases Hamas cofounder Muhammad Taha, held in administrative detention since 3/03, in Gaza. (VOI, VOP, XIN 5/5 in WNC 5/7; NYT, PCHR, WP, WT 5/6; VOI 5/6 in WNC 5/8; VOP 5/8 in WNC 5/11; PCHR 5/13)

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Economy Min. Gad Ya'aqobi announces that intifadah cost Israeli economy NIS 1.2 billion in 1988 [FBIS 3/14].

Other Countries: Bush administration calls on PLO, Israel to ease tension in O.T. Plan includes: release of some Palestinian prisoners; end of administrative detention; reopening of schools; halt to violent demonstrations; end of anti-Israeli activity in S. Lebanon; end of distribution of inflammatory leaflets [NYT 3/12].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Clashes in Gaza leave 5 Palestinians shot, wounded. In Hebron troops shoot, wound 4Palestinians [FBIS 3/13, FJ 3/20]. Others are injured during clashes in Nablus, Tulkarm, Ramallah [FJ 3/20].

Arab World: In S. Lebanon Israeli army kills 2 PFLP-GC guerrillas attempting to cross Israel's northem border [FBIS 3/13]