The Palestine Chronology

In the West Bank, 1 Palestinian teen was severely injured by an unexploded ordinance left behind by Israeli forces in the Masafer Yatta area near Yatta. Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in the Masafer Yatta area; 1 Palestinian was run over by an Israeli military vehicle and others suffered tear-gas related injuries. Israeli forces also violently dispersed Palestinian protesters during the weekly anti-settlement protest in Kafr Qaddum, injuring 2 Palestinians who were hit by tear gas canisters. Elsewhere, Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in Bayt Dajan and Dayr Jarir, leading to tear-gas related injuries. Israeli forces also clashed with Palestinians in Kafr Malik; 1 Palestinian was shot and injured by a rubber-coated bullet and others suffered tear-gas related injuries. Meanwhile, Israeli forces clashed with Palestinians in Bayt Umar and east of al-Bireh, leading to tear-gas related injuries. Israeli forces also confiscated a Palestinian-owned tractor in Sinjil and a tractor and bulldozer in Bayt Dajan. 5 Palestinians were arrested during raids in and around Jenin refugee camp, Halhul, and Dayr Jarir; clashes broke out during the raids in Jenin refugee camp, leading to tear-gas related injuries. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces assaulted Palestinian minors and their older relatives, claiming that the minors had thrown stones at them in the Old City. 1 Palestinian family demolished part of their house in Ras al-Amud to avoid exorbitant Israeli demolition fees. 2 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in al-Tur. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire at agricultural lands east of Juhur al-Dik and al-Bureij refugee camp; no injuries were reported. Israeli forces also arrested 1 Palestinian who had entered Israel through the Gaza fence. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 1/8; PCHR 1/14)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers threw stones at Palestinian vehicles at several places in the Nablus area. Israeli forces shot and killed 1 Palestinian near Bethlehem, claiming that he threw a knife at an Israeli soldier; Israeli forces later raided his hometown Bayt Umar, leading to clashes; tear-gas related injuries were reported. Israeli forces also demolished 1 agricultural structure in al-Khadir, delivered a stop-work notice for an agricultural road east of Tubas, demolished and uprooted 3,400 olive and grape trees in Dayr Balut, and delivered demolition notices for 13 commercial structures near Jenin. Elsewhere, Israeli forces violently removed Palestinian and international activists planting olive tree saplings east of Halhul. 6 Palestinians were arrested, including 5 during raids in Nabi Saleh, Tulkarm, and Nablus; 1 was arrested by the separation barrier west of Jenin. In East Jerusalem, Israeli settlers vandalized Palestinian-owned vehicles in the Old City. 3 Palestinians were arrested during raids in Issawiyya and Silwan. (HA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 1/5; PCHR 1/7)

At a Gulf Cooperation Council summit in Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the UAE, Bahrain, and Saudi Arabia reconciled with Qatar after a 3.5-year dispute where the quartet of countries claimed that Qatar is sponsoring terrorism, an allegation Qatar has denied. (AJ, AJ, AJ, AJ, HA, REU, REU, WAFA, WAFA 1/5; REU 1/6; AJ, AJ, REU 1/7; REU 1/8)

Iran put out a “red notice” request through Interpol for the arrest of U.S. president Donald Trump and 47 other U.S. officials in connection with the assassination of Iranian general Qassim Soleimani, who was killed on 1/3/2020 at the Baghdad airport by U.S. forces. (AJ 1/5)

A newly elected republican congresswoman Kat Cammack (R-FL) said that she would fly an Israeli flag outside her office because Palestinian American Rashida Tlaib (D-MI) has an office next to hers. A spokesperson for Rep. Tlaib called it a publicity stunt said that Tlaib hopes Rep. Cammack would focus on solving issues for her constituents. (FOX, FWD, MEMO, TOI 1/7; JP 1/8)

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

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

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

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers attacked 1 Palestinian near Jericho. Israeli forces uprooted 300 olive trees and razed farmland in al-Jaba‘. Israeli forces also shot and injured 2 Palestinians with live ammunition as they were trying to enter Israel through the separation barrier for work near Ya‘bad. Elsewhere, Israeli forces raided al-‘Arub refugee camp, clashing with Palestinians; tear-gas related injuries were reported. 9 Palestinians were arrested during raids in and around Ramallah and al-‘Arub refugee camp. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrested 3 Palestinians in the Old City, including 2 maintenance workers at the Haram al-Sharif compound. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 12/30; PCHR 12/31)

Jonathan Pollard, the former U.S. navy intelligence analyst who spied on the U.S. for Israel, arrived in Tel Aviv on a private jet belonging to the mega donor to Israeli settlements and U.S. Republicans, Sheldon Adelson. He was received by Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who handed him and his wife Israeli passports. Pollard, who have been living under strict restrictions in New York City after being granted parole in 2015, was able to move freely when his parole was lifted in November. Pollard received a life sentence after being convicted of spying in 1987; Israel had since that time lobbied consecutive U.S. presidents to have him released to Israel. (AJ, GDN, HA, IN, JP, MEE, NYT, REU, TOI, WP 12/30)

Israel launched an air strike on Syria near Damascus, killing 1 and injuring 3 according to the Syrian state media outlet SANA. (AJ 12/30)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces violently dispersed the weekly anti-settlement protest in Kafr Qaddum, injuring 2 with rubber-coated bullets; others suffered tear-gas related injuries. Israeli forces also violently dispersed a protest in Bayt Dajan, leading to tear-gas related injuries. Elsewhere, Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in Dayr Jarir, injuring the village’s major and 1 other with rubber-coated bullets; others suffered tear-gas related injuries. Israeli forces also raided Qabatiya, leading to clashes with Palestinians; 1 Palestinian was hit with a rubber-coated bullet, others suffered tear-gas related injuries. Meanwhile, Israeli forces took measurements of the house of a Palestinian accused of killing an Israeli settler on 12/21 for a punitive demolition. 4 Palestinians were arrested during raids in Qalqilya and Dayr al-Ghusun. In East Jerusalem, 1 Palestinian was arrested in the Old City. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire at agricultural fields east of Dayr al-Balah; no injuries were reported. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 12/25; PCHR 12/31)

The PA foreign ministry urged the UN Security Council to address the spike in Israeli settler violence against Palestinians. (WAFA 12/25)

Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Moroccan king Mohammed VI spoke via phone for the 1st time since the 2 countries’ normalization deal was announced on 12/10. Prime Minister Netanyahu said he had invited King Mohammed VI to Israel and later said that a Moroccan delegation would land in Israel soon. (AJ, HA 12/25; REU 12/26)

Israeli forces attacked the Syrian city of Masyaf near Lebanon, killing 6 people and causing damage. According to the Syrian military, it had intercepted a “barrage of Israeli missiles.” Low-flying Israeli fighters were filmed over Beirut shortly before the attack. (AJ, DT, HA, TOI 12/25)

Turkey’s president Recep Tayyip Erdoğan told reporters in Istanbul that he wants relations with Israel to be better but that “[t]he Palestine policy is our red line. It is impossible for us to accept Israel’s Palestine policies. Their merciless acts that are unacceptable.” (AJ, HA, MEE, REU 12/25)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers threw stones at Palestinian vehicles traveling near Luban al-Sharqiyya and at a house in the village. Israeli settlers also uprooted 35 Palestinian-owned olive trees in al-Twana. 8 Palestinians were arrested during raids in Tura al-Ghabiyya, Nablus, and Hebron; 1 Palestinian was assaulted by the raiding Israeli forces in Tura al-Ghabiyya and was treated at a hospital. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces violently dispersed a Christmas celebration caravan in Bayt Hanina. 1 Palestinian family of 4 was handed a demolition order for their 2-story house in Silwan. 4 Palestinians were arrested in and around the Old City and Issawiyya. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 12/24; WAFA 12/25; PCHR 12/31)

Israel arrested 1 Palestinian man suspected of killing 1 Israeli settler on 12/20. (HA, TOI 12/24)

U.S. secretary of state Mike Pompeo announced that the U.S. was inaugurating “a virtual presence post effective immediately” as the U.S. continues work to establish a physical consulate in the Moroccan-occupied Western Sahara. The U.S. announced on 12/10 that it recognized Moroccan sovereignty over the Western Sahara in return for Morocco normalizing ties with Israel. (AJ, HA 12/24)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers set up 1 tent and 1 water tank on Palestinian-owned land east of Ramallah. Israeli settlers with military escort also toured Sabastiyya, closing off parts of the town to Palestinians. Elsewhere, Israeli settlers razed a tract of land near Awarta. 7 Palestinians were arrested, including 1 who was shot and injured by Israeli forces while near Bani Na‘im, and 6 others during raids in and around Salfit, Tuqu‘, Bethlehem, Qalqilya, and Jenin; during the raid in Salfit, 2 Palestinians were assaulted and 1 car was damaged. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 12/23; PCHR 12/24)

The Jordanian foreign ministry condemned continued Israeli excavations of al-Shuhada’ cemetery in the Old City of Jerusalem. (WAFA 12/24)

A new Federal Registration Notice by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection said that all products from Area C of the West Bank must be labelled as originating in Israel, while goods from Areas A and B must be labelled “product of West Bank.” The change was, according to the notice, made to reflect the “guidance from the U.S. Department of State that the country of origin marking requirements for goods produced in certain areas of the West Bank be updated to reflect the fact that producers in these areas operate within the economic and administrative framework of Israel.” (HA 12/23; WAFA 12/24; WAFA 12/26)

The EU contributed $22.5 million and Spain $1.22 million to the PA Ministry of Social Development for the distribution of cash aid to 115,000 vulnerable families in the West Bank and Gaza. (WAFA 12/23)

In the West Bank, armed Israeli settlers raided the Masafer Yatta area, entering several Palestinian homes and assaulting the owners. Israeli settlers also destroyed water pipes and orange trees in Luban al-Sharqiyya. Elsewhere, Israeli settlers threw stones at Palestinian vehicles traveling near Jenin, damaging 4. Israeli forces shot and injured 1 Palestinian using a rubber-coated bullet, hitting his head, during clashes in Kafr Malik. Israeli forces also violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in al-Mughayyir; during the protest, Israeli settlers armed with guns and clubs fired shots and threatened to release attack dogs on Palestinians. Elsewhere, Israeli forces violently dispersed the weekly anti-settlement protest in Kafr Qaddum, leading to tear-gas related injuries; Palestinians managed to shoot down 1 Israeli drone with stones. Israeli forces also violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in Bayt Dajan, causing tear-gas related injuries. Meanwhile, Israeli forces set up 2 metal gates on agricultural roads in the Jordan Valley. 5 Palestinians were arrested, including 3 during raids in and around al-‘Izzariya, Zabbuba, and Jenin; 2 were arrested at checkpoints near Tulkarm and Bethlehem. In East Jerusalem, 1 Palestinian was arrested in the Old City. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 12/18; HA 12/19; +972, WAFA 12/21; PCHR 12/24)

1 Palestinian prisoner started an open-ended hunger strike after, despite completing a 10-month sentence in an Israeli prison, his detention continued. (WAFA 12/18)

According to Sudanese media outlets, Sudan revoked the citizenship of 3,000 foreign nationals, including Hamas leader Khaled Mishal. (TOI 12/18)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers uprooted and stole some 250 olive saplings near Kisan. Israeli forces raided a school in Jenin, leading to tear-gas related injuries among students and teachers. 6 Palestinians were arrested during raids in and around Bethlehem, Ramallah, al-Mughayyir, Birzeit, and Tulkarm; during a late-night raid in Ramallah, Palestinians clashed with Israeli forces, leading to tear-gas related injuries. In East Jerusalem, 2 Palestinians were arrested in the Old City during raids. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire at agricultural lands in the direction of a group of officials from the Ministry of Agriculture and journalists east of al-Fukhari; no injuries were reported. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 12/17; PCHR 12/24)

The PA announced new restrictions to curb the spread of the COVID-19 virus as daily cases continued to rise. Among the new restrictions were closures of all schools and universities, a ban of movement between governorates, full closure of high-rate areas, temporarily banning Palestinian citizens of Israel from entering the West Bank, a ban on Palestinian workers traveling between Israel and the West Bank and must find accommodation at their workplace or stay home, and a ban of movement of individuals on Fridays and Saturdays. The restrictions are in effect until 1/2/2021. The announcement came as the West Bank and Gaza recorded 30 new deaths and 2,149 new cases in the last 24 hours. 132 Palestinians were in intensive care, including 36 on ventilators. The PA did not provide data from East Jerusalem. According to the World Health Organization, the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and Gaza have a total of 133,185 confirmed cases of COVID-19, of which 25,160 are active. 1,186 deaths related to COVID-19 have so far been recorded. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WHO 12/17)

Germany contributed $10.5 million to the World Food Programme’s mission in the West Bank and Gaza. (WAFA 12/17)

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

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

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

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

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

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

In the West Bank, Israeli settler set up a mobile home on Palestinian land east of Hebron. Israeli forces violently dispersed an anti-settlement protest in al-Mughayyir, leading to tear-gas related injuries. Israeli forces also violently dispersed anti-settlement protests in Kafr Qaddum, leading to tear-gas related injuries. Elsewhere, Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinians at an olive tree planting event in Bayt Dajan, injuring 2 with rubber-coated bullets while 15 others suffered tear-gas related injuries. Israeli forces also denied Palestinians access to their land near Salfit. Palestinians clashed with PA security forces during several demonstrations against COVID-19 lockdown restrictions in and around Hebron, leading to tear-gas related injuries. 6 Palestinians were arrested during raids in and around Nablus, al-Bireh, al-‘Izzariya, Luban al-Sharqiyya, and Huwwara. In East Jerusalem, 4 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in the Old City and Issawiyya. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire on agricultural lands east of al-Fukhari; no injuries were reported. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 12/11; HA 12/12; PCHR 12/17)

1 Palestinian man died of wounds sustained after being shot by Israeli forces at the Qalandia checkpoint on 8/16. The man, who had a hearing disability, was shot after he did not stop when told by Israeli forces. (WAFA 12/11; PCHR 12/17)

A member of Hezbollah was sentenced to 5 consecutive life sentences for killing former Lebanese prime minister Rafik Hariri and 21 others in 2005. The man, Salim Jamil Ayyash, was sentenced in absentia by the UN-backed Lebanon Tribunal. (AJ, HA, REU 12/11)

A group of 22 Republican members of the U.S. House sent a letter to U.S. president Donald Trump urging the president to declassify a State Department report mandated by Congress in 2012 that distinguishes between Palestinian refugees born in Palestine before 1948 and those born outside of Palestine. The 22 Republicans said in the letter that they do not believe that descendants of Palestinian refugees born in Palestine before 1948 can be considered refugees and called the Right of Return a “fiction” that should “end.” (Rep. Doug Lamborn 12/11, MDW 12/21)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers uprooted olive and fig saplings in Dayr Istya and Haris and uprooted 30 olive saplings in al-Khadir. Israeli undercover forces shot and injured 5 Palestinians using live ammunition during a raid in Qalandia refugee camp; 2 were said to be in critical condition and Israel also said 6 of the Israeli undercover soldiers were lightly injured. Later, 1 other Palestinian was shot and injured by Israeli forces at the Qalandia checkpoint between the West Bank and East Jerusalem; according to Israeli sources, he was shot because he used the vehicle lane to try to pass through the checkpoint on foot. Israeli forces also shot and injured 3 Palestinians and arrested 4 others during raids in Dheisheh refugee camp. Elsewhere, Israeli forces demolished 2 structures near Bethlehem and delivered 1 demolition order for 1 tent in the Jordan Valley. 21 Palestinians were arrested during raids in and around Qalqilya, Bethlehem, Qalandia refugee camp, al-‘Izzariya, and Yatta. In East Jerusalem, Israeli settlers threatened Palestinians with a gun on the Palestinians’ property in Silwan. 3 Palestinians were arrested in the Old City and Silwan. (HA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 12/7; PCHR 12/10)

The PA health ministry said that the World Health Organization is sending 5,000 COVID-19 testing swabs to Gaza, as Gaza is facing a severe shortages on COVID-19 testing material. (WAFA 12/7)

PA prime minister Mohammed Shtayyeh said that the districts of Hebron, Bethlehem, Nablus, and Tulkarm would be placed on a 1-week lockdown from 12/10 to curb the spread of the COVID-19 virus in those districts. (WAFA 12/7)

A member of the UAE’s ruling family, son of the UAE president Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Nahyan bought a 50 percent stake in Beitar Jerusalem, a soccer team known for extreme racism among its supporters. Beitar Jerusalem is the only team in the top tier of Israeli soccer not to have employed an Arab soccer player and its fans regularly chant “Death to Arabs” and verbally degrade the Prophet Muhammad during games. (AJ, HA 12/7; ALM, BBC, TOI, SKY 12/8)

Spain donated $485,000 to the World Food Programme to help provide food for some of the most vulnerable families in Gaza. (WAFA 12/7)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers cut down 42 olive trees and demolished 1 Palestinian-owned wall in Yasuf. Israeli settlers also set up caravans on Palestinian-owned land in the northern Jordan Valley. Israeli forces clashed with Palestinians during raids in Beita; injuries from rubber-coated bullets and tear gas were reported. Israeli forces also prevented Palestinians from working their land in Atuf and seized 2 bulldozers. 5 Palestinians were arrested during raids in and around Jenin, Tulkarm, Yatta, Nablus, and Dheisheh refugee camp. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces clashed with Palestinians in Issawiyya; 1 Palestinian child was shot in his face with a rubber-coated bullet. 3 Palestinians were arrested during raids in al-Tur, Issawiyya, and the Old City. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire at agricultural lands east of Khuza‘a; no injuries were reported. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 12/6; PCHR 12/10)

Saudi prince and former ambassador to the U.S. and the UK Turki al-Faisal al-Saud criticized Israel harshly during his remarks at the Manama Dialogue security conference in Bahrain. He called Israel a “Western colonizing” power and said Palestinians were “incarcerated in concentration camps under the flimsiest of security accusations.” Prince Turki al-Faisal’s remarks came right before the Israeli foreign minister Gabi Ashkenazi, who joined the conference via video link. Foreign Minister Ashkenazi expressed regret toward Prince Turki al-Faisal’s remarks and said that he did not “believe that they reflect the spirit and change taking place in the Middle East.” While Prince Turki al-Faisal does not hold an official position in Saudi Arabia, his comments were perceived as surprisingly harsh given Israel’s normalization deals with Bahrain and the UAE, which is suspected of having the tacit approval of Saudi Arabia and given the all-but-confirmed rumors about Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu flying to Saudi Arabia to meet with Saudi crown prince Muhammed bin Salman on 11/23. (AJ, BB, FT, HA, Twitter 12/6)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces and Palestinians clashed at the funeral in al-Mughayyir for a 14-year-old boy who was shot and killed by Israeli forces on 12/4; tear-gas related injuries were reported. 1 Palestinian was arrested during a raid in Hebron. In East Jerusalem, 3 Palestinians were arrested during raids in the Old City and Issawiyya. Off the coast of Gaza, Israeli naval forces opened fire on Palestinian fishermen within 3 nautical miles west of Bayt Lahiya; no injuries were reported, (IN 12/6; PCHR 12/10)

For the 24th week in a row, Israelis protested against Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu outside of his official residence and throughout Israel. Some 30 Israelis were arrested during the protest. The protesters are demanding that Prime Minister Netanyahu resign due to his COVID-19 response, the Israeli economy, and the corruption cases against him. (HA 12/5; AJ, WAFA 12/6)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces clashed with Palestinians during a raid in Bayt Umar, leading to tear-gas related injuries. Israeli forces also seized 8 sanitation trucks in al-‘Izzariya, destroyed a vending stall in al-Fawar refugee camp, and demolished 1 agricultural shed and seized 1 mobile home southeast of Hebron. 8 Palestinians were arrested during raids in and around Biddu, Qatanna, Balata refugee camp, Bayt Dajan, and Salfit. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces demolished 1 Palestinian-owned home in Sur Bahir. 6 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in Silwan, Issawiyya, and the Old City. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire on Palestinian farmers and shepherds southeast of Bayt Hanun; no injuries were reported. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 12/1; PCHR 12/3)

Hamas said that its political leader Yahya Sinwar had contracted the COVID-19 virus and would be working during self-isolation. (HA 12/1)

The New York Times reported that Sudanese officials said that the country will not move forward with normalization of ties with Israel unless the U.S. Congress grants the country immunity from future terrorism lawsuits. (HA, NYT 12/1)

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

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

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

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers raided Silat al-Dahir, vandalizing Palestinian-owned houses and vehicles. Israeli settlers also razed Palestinian-owned land and planted their own crops in ‘Urif. Israeli forces delivered 1 demolition order for 1 agricultural shed in al-Walaja and 1 commercial barrack in Qalqilya, and delivered 1 stop-work order for 1 house under construction in Bayt Awa. Israeli forces also clashed with Palestinians in Bayt Umar, leading to tear-gas related injuries. 3 Palestinians were arrested, including 1 during a late-night raid in Yatta and 2 at checkpoints near Nablus and Bethlehem. In East Jerusalem, 2 Palestinians were arrested during raids in the Old City and Bayt Hanina. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 11/19; PCHR 11/26)

PA civil affairs minister Hussein al-Sheikh said, after a meeting with Israeli officials, that Israel has agreed to pay the PA the money it owes in tax revenue, about $890 million. (NYT, WAFA 11/19; HA 11/20)

The U.S. state department issued new guidelines of how to refer to products produced in Gaza and the West Bank as secretary of state Mike Pompeo was visiting Israel and Israeli settlements in the West Bank. Under the new guidelines, products imported to the U.S. from Area C of the West Bank would have to be labeled “Made in Israel.” Products can no longer be labeled “Made in West Bank/Gaza,” so products made in Gaza should be labeled “product of Gaza” and products made in Area A and B of the West Bank should be labeled “product of West Bank.” In a statement by Secretary Pompeo, he said that the U.S. is adhering to a “reality-based” approach, which would indicate that the new guidelines are a way for the U.S. administration to recognize Israel’s annexation of Area C. The statement also stipulated that “Gaza and the West Bank are politically and administratively separate and should be treated accordingly.” Secretary Pompeo also made another policy announcement during a press conference with Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu. At the press conference, Pompeo announced that the State Department regards the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement as anti-Semitic and that the U.S. would start identifying organizations that support BDS to penalize them. The BDS movement released a statement reiterating that it rejects “all forms of racism, including anti-Jewish racism” and said it would resist “these McCarthyite attempts to intimidate and bully Palestinian, Israeli and international human rights defenders into accepting Israeli apartheid and settler-colonialism as fate.” The American Civil Liberties Union responded to Pompeo’s announcement that “[c]riticism of Israel, or any government, is fully protected by the First Amendment. Threatening to block government funds to groups that criticize Israel is blatantly unconstitutional.” Secretary Pompeo also visited the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights and was the 1st secretary of state to do so. Pompeo’s visit to Israeli settlements in the West Bank was also a 1st for a U.S. secretary of state. Pompeo also tweeted, “Anti-Zionism is Anti-Semitism” (AJ, AJ, Amnesty, AX, BBC, BBC, DT, DW, HA, IN, IN, MDN, MEE, NYT, REU, REU, SKY, TOI, TOI, Twitter, Twitter, Twitter, U.S. State Department, WAFA, WAFA, WP 11/19; AJ, BBC, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WP 11/20)

The EU told Serbia and Kosovo that if the countries still desire to become member states of the EU, they will have to follow EU policy, including not moving their Israeli embassies to Jerusalem as this would undermine EU policy and international law. A statement released conveying the message referenced the White House meetings held on 9/5-9/7 in which U.S. president Donald Trump announced the embassy moves. (EU Commission 11/19)

At the UN general assembly, 163 countries voted for a resolution recognizing “the right of the Palestinian people to self-determination, including the right to their independent State of Palestine.” 5 countries—Israel, the U.S., Micronesia, Nauru, and the Marshall Islands—voted against. (HA 11/20)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers attacked 1 Palestinian minor and his father in Hebron. Israeli settlers also set up tents in Battir near Bethlehem. Israeli forces delivered demolition orders for 1 residential structure and 1 garden in Sabastiyya, 1 pool used for irrigation in Bayt Dajan, and a number of structures east of Yatta. Israeli forces also demolished 1 residential structure near Tubas and dismantled and seized 1 wooden shed in Umm al-Jamal. Israeli forces also shot and injured 6 Palestinians using rubber-coated bullets during raids in Qalandia refugee camp; 1 Israeli soldier was also injured during the clashes, which lasted some 2 hours; 9 Palestinian-owned vehicles were damaged. 12 Palestinians were arrested during raids in and around Nablus, Birzeit, Bayt Umar, Qalandia, Hebron, and Jenin. 7 Palestinians were arrested in the Old City and Issawiyya. In Gaza, Israeli forces made incursions and razed farmland east of Khan Yunis. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 11/17, PCHR 11/19)

The PA civil affairs minister Hussein al-Sheikh announced that the PA would resume coordination with Israel, including security coordination, after suspending ties in May. Civil Affairs Minister al-Sheikh said that Israel had promised to respect its agreements with the PA during “international negotiations conducted by the president [Mahmoud Abbas].” Hamas and Islamic Jihad condemned the PA’s move, saying it undermines reconciliation efforts. PA prime minister Mohammad Shtayyeh said during a Zoom conference organized by the Council of Foreign Relations that the COVID-19 pandemic played a part in the decision as the PA have struggled to find the resources to fight it. (AJ, HA, HA, REU, TOI, WAFA 11/17; HA, TOI 11/18; HA 11/19)

Israeli said it defused explosive devices in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights near the de facto border of Syria. Israel later attacked Syria, striking 8 targets. According to the Syrian state media SANA, 3 were killed, 1 wounded, and Syria intercepted Israeli missiles over Damascus. The London-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said 10 people were killed in the strikes. Israel acknowledged to have attacked Syria, saying it was responding to the explosive devices and claiming that it had hit Iranian and Syrian forces in Syria. (HA, REU 11/17; AJ, HA 11/18; BBC 11/19)

Both Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu and president Reuven Rivlin congratulated U.S. president-elect Joe Biden via phone. (HA 11/17)

1 Jewish-Israeli was given a 7-year prison sentence for smuggling metals into Gaza and selling them to Hamas. He was also fined $60,000. (TOI, HA 11/17)

41 Democrats in congress cosigned a letter to U.S. secretary of state Mike Pompeo, expressing concern about Israel’s demolition of the village Khirbet Humsa on 11/3, demanding that Secretary Pompeo condemn Israel’s actions. (Mark Pocan’s Office 11/17; HA, WAFA 11/18)

In the West Bank, 1 Palestinian was arrested at a checkpoint near Bayt Jala. In East Jerusalem, 2 Palestinians were arrested during raids in the Old City. Off the coast of Gaza, Israeli naval forces opened fire on Palestinian fishermen west of Bayt Lahiya; no injuries were reported. (PCHR 11/19)

For the 21st Saturday in a row, thousands of Israelis protested prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu outside of his official residence and throughout Israel. (HA 11/14; WAFA 11/15)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces shot 1 Palestinian near al-Fawar refugee camp; Israeli forces alleged that the man was wielding a knife when he was shot. Israeli forces also assaulted 1 minor near Jenin; he was taken to a hospital for treatment. 3 Palestinians were arrested trying to enter Israel near Jenin. In East Jerusalem, 6 Palestinians were arrested in al-Tur and the Old City. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire on Palestinian bird hunters northeast of al-Bureij; no injuries were reported. Israeli forces also opened fire on agricultural lads east of Abasan; no injuries were reported. (HA, WAFA 11/8; PCHR 11/12)

1 Palestinian sued 1 Israeli settler for vandalizing his property in a Nablus court. The suit against an Israeli settler in a Palestinian court is the 1st of its kind. (WAFA 11/8)

PA president Mahmoud Abbas congratulated president-elect Joe Biden on his victory in the 2020 U.S. presidential elections. In a statement, President Abbas said, “I look forward to working with the President-elect and his administration to strengthen the Palestinian-American relations and to achieve freedom, independence, justice and dignity for our people, as well as to work for peace, stability and security for all in our region and the world.” Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu also congratulated President-elect Biden in a tweet and immediately after, in another tweet, thanked President Donald Trump for “recognizing Jerusalem and the Golan, for standing up to Iran, for the historic peace accords and for bringing the American-Israeli alliance to unprecedented heights.” (HA, REU, Twitter, Twitter, WAFA, WAFA 11/8; HA, WAFA 11/9)

A delegation of Israeli settlers led by Yossi Dagan of the Samaria Regional Council met with Emirati businesspeople to promote their settler businesses. The settler business trip in the UAE is set to commence on 11/12. An aide to President Abbas called it “painful to witness Arab cooperation with one of the worst manifestations of aggression against the Palestinian people, which is the Israeli settlements on our land.” (AP, HA 11/11)

In the West Bank, stone-throwing Israeli settlers attacked 1 Palestinian family in al-Zawiya near Nablus; 1 Palestinian was hospitalized for his injuries. Israeli settlers also stole dozens of saplings from a nursery in al-Zawiya. Israeli forces punitively demolished the home of an alleged Palestinian attacker in Rujib near Nablus, and clashes erupted during the demolition; 1 Palestinian was shot by a rubber-coated bullet, others suffered tear-gas related injuries. 4 Palestinians were arrested during raids in and around Ramallah and Dura. In East Jerusalem, 2 Palestinians were arrested during raids in the Old City and Wadi al-Juz. (WAFA, WAFA 11/1; HA, PCHR, WAFA, WAFA 11/2; PCHR 11/5)

The PA health ministry released data on the impact of COVID-19 since the outbreak started in January. In Gaza and the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, there had been 65,802 confirmed cases among Palestinians and 561 deaths. 47,730 confirmed cases and 455 deaths were in the West Bank, 11,742 cases and 72 deaths in East Jerusalem, and 6,730 cases and 34 deaths in Gaza. (HA 11/2)

The EU contributed $11.64 million to the PA to help pay for salaries and pensions for civil servants. (WAFA 11/1)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces attacked Palestinian worshippers in al-Ibrahimi Mosque during morning prayers at the advent of the Prophet Muhammad’s birthday. 5 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in and around Bethlehem, Bayt Sahour, and Dura. In East Jerusalem, 4 Palestinians were arrested during raids in the Old City. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire at agricultural lands east of Khuza‘a; no injuries were reported. Off the coast of Gaza, Israeli naval forces opened fire on Palestinian fishermen within 2 nautical miles west of Bayt Lahiya; no injuries were reported. (WAFA, WAFA 10/29; PCHR 11/5)

The PA requested help from the UN to get a baptismal font back that was seized by Israel near Bethlehem on 7/20 this year. The baptismal font dates back to the 5th century. (WAFA 10/29)

A large Israeli military drill in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights caused massive damage with some 1,500 dunams (400 acres) burned by fires sparked from the drill. (TOI 10/29; HA 10/30)

U.S. secretary of defense Mark Esper visited Israel, meeting with Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Israeli defense minister Benny Gantz. Haaretz reported on 10/27 that Israel has requested F-22 fighter jets from the U.S., which are currently only used by the U.S. military. Meanwhile, the White House notified Congress of its intent to sell 50 F-35 fighter jets to the UAE as part of the normalization deal between Israel and the UAE. (AJ, HA, HA 10/29; LT 10/30)

The CEO of Golan Heights Winery in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights said in a statement that his wines will be sold in the UAE starting this week. The UAE does not recognize Israeli sovereignty in the occupied Golan Heights. (HA, REU 10/29)

U.S. secretary of state Mike Pompeo announced that U.S. citizens born in Jerusalem will be able to list Israel as the place of birth. The spokesperson for PA president Mahmoud Abbas condemned the U.S. decision. (HA 10/28; HA, REU, WAFA 10/29; AJ, IN, REU 10/30)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers stole ladders, cloth, and saws used for olive harvesting in Jalud. Israeli forces demolished 3 residential structures near Abu Dis. 2 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in and around Kafr Malik and Bethlehem; during raids in Kafr Malik, Tammun, and Jab‘a, confrontations with Palestinians erupted, leading to tear-gas related injuries. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces demolished 1 store and 1 apartment in Sur Bahir. 3 Palestinians were arrested in and around the Old City, al-Tur, and Shu‘fat refugee camp. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire on agricultural lands east of al-Qarara; no injuries were reported. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 10/28; PCHR 10/29)

PA president Mahmoud Abbas sent a letter to UN secretary-general António Guterres urging him to convene an international conference for Middle East peace. (WAFA 10/29)

Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu and U.S. ambassador to Israel David Friedman signed an agreement on scientific cooperation, which extends the area that the U.S. considers Israel to Israeli settlements in the West Bank and the Golan Heights. In a statement, Ambassador Friedman said that the agreement “remove[s] geographic restrictions . . . These geographic restrictions are no longer consistent with U.S. policy.” According to Haaretz, the American casino magnate Sheldon Adelson, who is a major donor for U.S. president Donald Trump and the Ariel University in the Ariel settlement, where the signing ceremony was held, has been pressuring the U.S. administration to fast-track the agreement. Member of the executive committee of the PLO Hanan Ashrawi said that President Trump is seeking to bolster his position in the presidential race by making “a clear recognition of Israel’s annexation of Palestinian territory,” calling the U.S. an active participant in war crimes. (AX, JNS, JP, REU 10/27; HA, REU, U.S. Embassy in Israel, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 10/28)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers emptied sewage and wastewater on Palestinian agricultural lands in Dayr al-Hatab near Nablus. Israeli settlers also attacked 2 Palestinian journalists from WAFA as they were reporting on settler encroachment in Dayr Istya. Israeli forces demolished 1 residential structure and 1 water well, and seized 1 vehicle and 1 power engine near Tubas. 9 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in and around al-‘Arub refugee camp, Bethlehem, Qalandia refugee camp, Qalqilya, and Izzariya. In East Jerusalem, Israeli authorities issued demolition orders for 13 Palestinian-owned houses in Silwan inhabited by 76 people. 10 Palestinians were arrested in and around the Old City and Issawiyya, including 2 Waqf guards. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 10/19; PCHR 10/22)

Israel handed over control of 3 power stations to the PA. PA prime minister Mohammed Shtayyeh supported the deal and said the PA “seek[s] to establish a single Palestinian power company” that will be responsible for electric supply in all the West Bank. The PA took control of another power station in Jenin in 2017. At the same time, Israel granted the Israeli company Bezeq a license to operate in the West Bank, a move that the PA Ministry of Telecommunications and Information Technology condemned. The PA ministry said that the move impedes the development of Palestinian telecommunication development. (WAFA 10/19; HA 10/20)

Israel reported that PLO secretary general Saeb Erakat was in critical condition as he is being treated for COVID-19 at the Hadassah University Hospital in West Jerusalem. (AJ, HA, WAFA 10/19)

The Fatah Central Committee announced that its members had approved the understandings made with Hamas unanimously. (WAFA 10/19)

The UAE cabinet approved the Israel-UAE normalization deal. (HA, REU 10/19)

U.S. president Donald Trump said that the U.S. would remove Sudan from the U.S. list of state sponsors of terrorism if Sudan paid $355 million to American victims of terror attacks in Kenya and Tanzania in 1998. The U.S. has been pressuring Sudan to normalize ties with Israel and some analysts believed that a normalization deal was being worked on despite Trump not mentioning it in his statements. (AJ, GDN, HA, REU 10/19; BBC 10/20)

Japan donated $4.3 million to food programming in Gaza. (WAFA 10/19)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers threw stones at Palestinian vehicles traveling between Bethlehem and Hebron; 1 Palestinian child was injured by broken glass in his eye. Israeli settlers also uprooted dozens of Palestinian-owned olive saplings east of Yatta. Israeli forces opened fire at a vehicle with 5 Palestinians inside at a military checkpoint near Jenin, causing damage to the vehicle; no injuries were reported. 7 Palestinians were arrested in and around Hebron, Qalqilya, and Nablus; during a raid in Tammun, Israeli forces seized mobile phones, leading to confrontations with Palestinians; no injuries were reported. During a different raid in Sabastiyya, Israeli forces clashed with Palestinians, leading to tear-gas related injuries. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces detained the secretary of Fatah in Jerusalem Yasser Darwish and banned him from entry to the West Bank for 3 months. 7 Palestinians were arrested during raids in Issawiyya, the Old City, and al-Tur. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire at agricultural lands east of al-Shawka; no injuries were reported. Off the coast of Gaza, Israeli naval forces opened fire on Palestinian fishermen within 4 nautical miles west of al-Sudaniyya; no injuries were reported. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 10/8; WAFA 10/9; PCHR 10/15)

An Israeli court ruled that Israel can demolish 1 school east of Ramallah under the pretext that it was built without a permit. The school enrolls 50 students and was financed by donations from France, Finland, Luxembourg, Ireland, Spain, the UK, and Sweden. (WAFA 10/8; WAFA 10/9)

Secretary-general of the PLO Saeb Erakat said that he had tested positive for the COVID-19 virus. (AJ, JP, TOI, WAFA 10/9)

Israel and Jordan signed a deal allowing airlines from each country to fly over each other’s airspace. (HA 10/8)

Lebanon’s former prime minister Saad Hariri, who resigned after prolonged protests at the end of 2019, said that he is a possible candidate to head the new Lebanese government. (REU 10/8; AJ 10/9)

The U.S. Trump administration announced new sanctions on Iran that effectively shuts off the country from the global financial system. The new sanctions are expected to halt flows of food, medicine, and humanitarian aid to Iran. (AJ, REU 10/8)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces raided Surayf, leading to clashes with Palestinians; 1 Palestinian minor was shot in his chest and taken to a hospital. Israeli forces also uprooted dozens of Palestinian-owned olive trees in Husan and demolished 3 rooms, 1 residential tent, 2 shacks, and 1 oven east of Yatta. 7 Palestinians were arrested during raids in and around Bayt Umar, Hebron, Bayt Fajjar, and Jalazun refugee camp. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces delivered demolition notices for 2 Palestinian-owned houses in Ras al-Amud. 5 Palestinians were arrested in and around the Old City, al-Tur, and Bayt Hanina. Israel also summoned PA governor of Jerusalem Adnan Gheith for questioning. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 9/30; PCHR 10/1)

The U.S. received the 1st of 2 Israeli-made Iron Dome missile defense batteries purchased in 2019. (HA 9/30)

The EU contributed $12.31 million to the PA budget to help the PA pay for pensions and salaries for civil servants for August. The EU also called on Israel to hand over its owed taxes to the PA without any conditions. (WAFA 9/30)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces shot and injured 1 Palestinian during clashes in Jericho. Israeli forces also sealed the entrance to Asira. Elsewhere, Israeli forces razed land in Jalud to expand a nearby settlement, and demolished residential tents and agricultural structures in Kisan. 5 Palestinians were arrested, including 2 who were shot by live ammunition and injured by Israeli forces near the entrance to Kafr Malik; 2 during raids in and around Jalazun refugee camp and Bayt Umar; and 1 at the Allenby border crossing. In East Jerusalem, 7 Palestinians were arrested in the Old City and Issawiyya. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 9/24; PCHR 10/1)

Fatah and Hamas leaders said they have agreed to the 1st Palestinian elections since 2006. Fatah official Jibril Rajoub said that “[w]e have agreed to first hold legislative elections, then presidential elections of the Palestinian Authority, and finally the central council of the Palestine Liberation Organization.” A member of the Fatah Central Committee also said that “[w]ithout Jerusalem, there will be no elections.” It is unclear how national elections will include East Jerusalem as Israel refuses to let Palestinian East Jerusalemites participate in Palestinian elections. The 2 factions also agreed to a common vision of action to end the dispute between the 2; the vision would be presented on 10/1. (AJ, HA, WAFA, WAFA 9/24)

Foreign ministers of Jordan, Germany, Egypt, and France held a joint press conference in Amman, calling for resumption of Palestinian-Israeli peace negotiations. The 4 foreign ministers also praised the UAE and Bahrain’s normalization deals with Israel. (AJ 9/24)

At the UN General Assembly, the king of Bahrain Hamad bin Isa al-Khalifa said, via video link, that Bahrain’s normalization of ties with Israel will help facilitate a 2-state solution and that Bahrain still adheres to the parameters stipulated in the Arab Peace Initiative. (AJ 9/24)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces injured several Palestinian prisoners during raids in Ofer prison. Elsewhere, Israeli forces clashed with Palestinians during a raid in al-‘Arub refugee camp, leading to tear-gas related injuries. Israeli forces also prevented Palestinian construction workers from working on a road in ‘Araqa connecting it to Ya‘bad. 5 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in and around Qalqilya, Tulkarm, and Dura. In East Jerusalem, 1 Palestinian was arrested during a house raid in the Old City. Off the coast of Gaza, Israel naval forces opened fire at Palestinian fishermen; no injuries were reported. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire on agricultural lands east of Khan Yunis and Abasan; no injuries were reported. (WAFA, WAFA 9/13; PCHR 9/17)

The Israeli government approved plans for 980 new settlement units in the Efrat settlement near Bethlehem. (WAFA 9/13)

The Israeli government said it would impose a 3-week lockdown from 9/18 to curb the spread of COVID-19 as cases continue to rise. People in Israel will be restricted to stay within 0.3 miles of their homes. (REU 9/13; AJ, CNN, HA 9/14)

According to Times of Israel, the U.S. administration promised the UAE, as part of the normalization deal with Israel, that the U.S. would not approve of Israeli annexation of parts of the West Bank until 2024. (TOI 9/13)

In the West Bank, Palestinians in Kafr Malik forced Israeli settlers to leave their property after they set up caravans on their land; as the confrontation ensued, Israeli forces intervened on behalf of the settlers, injuring 2 Palestinians with rubber-coated bullets. Elsewhere, Israeli settlers threw stones at construction workers in Burqa. Israeli forces razed Palestinian-owned land in Haris. 12 Palestinians in the Ofer prison tested positive for COVID-19, raising the number of Palestinian prisoners testing positive for the virus to 29. 43 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in and around Dura, Hebron, Yatta, Bani Na‘im, al-‘Arub refugee camp, Bayt Umar, Bethlehem, and Tulkarm. In East Jerusalem, 1 Palestinian family started demolishing 2 floors of their home in the Old City. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 9/8; PCHR 9/10)

Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu apologized for the killing of a Palestinian-Israeli man who Israeli police shot during the demolition of the Bedouin village of Umm al-Hiran in the Negev in January 2017. Prime Minister Netanyahu said Israeli police, after the shooting, falsely had claimed the man was a terrorist. Chairman of the Joint List Ayman Odeh accused Netanyahu of having created the idea that the Palestinian-Israeli man was a terrorist when he was killed in 2017. Netanyahu’s comments fell after Haaretz reported on an internal document from the Shin Bet saying there was no evidence or indication of a terror attack. (HA 9/8; HA 9/9; TOI 9/10)

The son of Chadian president Idriss Déby, Abdelkarim Déby, represented his country during a visit to Israel and meeting with Prime Minister Netanyahu. According to a statement from Netanyahu’s office, the 2 discussed possibly exchanging embassies, including a Chadian embassy in Jerusalem. The Chadian foreign ministry “categorically” denied having any intentions to open an embassy in Jerusalem. (HA 9/8; WAFA 9/9)

The EU missions in Jerusalem and Ramallah expressed concern over Israel’s demolitions of Palestinian structures in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem. (WAFA 9/8)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers set up a caravan on Palestinian-owned land in Bil‘in. Israeli forces forced the village of Sabastiyya to remove a newly installed flagpole carrying a Palestinian flag; the flagpole was installed at a site frequently toured by Israeli settlers. 10 Palestinians were arrested during raids in and around Tulkarm, Bethlehem, Ramallah, and al-‘Arub refugee camp. In East Jerusalem, 6 Palestinians were arrested, including 1 during a raid in the Old City, and 5 at 1 of the gates to the Haram al-Sharif compound. In Gaza, Israeli forces fired missiles at southern Gaza, causing damage in Khan Yunis and east of Rafah; incendiary balloons were sent toward Israel, causing fires; 1 Palestinian-owned house in Abasan sustained severe damage. Israeli forces also opened fire on agricultural lands; no injuries were reported. 4 people from the same family also tested positive for the COVID-19 virus in the 1st instance of community spread of the virus in Gaza; prior positive tests have only occurred in quarantine facilities. 4 Palestinians died in an explosion in a house east of Gaza City; the reason for the explosion remained unclear. (AJ, HA, REU, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 8/24; AJ, HA, WAFA 8/25; +972 8/26; PCHR 8/27)

U.S. secretary of state Mike Pompeo landed in Israel for meetings with Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Defense Minister Benny Gantz, and Foreign Minister Gabi Ashkenazi. Secretary Pompeo is expected to travel to Sudan, Bahrain, and the UAE to talk with senior officials about, among other subjects, normalizing ties with Israel. (REU 8/22; AJ, HA 8/24)