The Palestine Chronology

Thousands of Palestinians gather at protests, sit-ins, and other demonstrations across the oPt in commemoration of the Naksa (the anniversary of the June War of 1967). Palestinian officials declare 6/8 a “day of rage,” encouraging the public to protest the Israeli occupation at Haram al-Sharif. In the West Bank, IDF troops arrest 3 Palestinians and issue 3 arrest summons during late-night raids near Qalqilya, Jenin, and Hebron; and patrol near Tulkarm, Qalqilya, and Hebron. In East Jerusalem, approximately 50 right-wing Israeli settlers tour Haram al-Sharif in the morning. Meanwhile, Israeli police confront a group of Muslim worshippers praying at the sanctuary; 12 Palestinians are arrested. Along Gaza’s border fence, unidentified Palestinians fly incendiary kites and balloons into Israel, sparking fires in the Sha’ar HaNegev Regional Council and near Moshav Netiv Ha‘asara and Kibbutz Nir Am. Israeli forces arrest a Palestinian attempting to cross the border near Khan Yunis and violently disperse Great March of Return protesters gathering near Khan Yunis and Bayt Hanun (7 Palestinians are injured). Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Bayt Lahiya, causing no damage or injuries. (MNA, TOI, YA 6/5; PCHR 6/7)

Today, Great March of Return demonstrations see tens of thousands of Palestinians in Gaza gathering along the border fence to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the Nakba, to protest the opening of the U.S. embassy in Jerusalem today, and to call for the Palestinian refugees’ right to return to their homes. IDF troops violently disperse demonstrations near Khan Yunis, Rafah, Gaza City, al-Bureij refugee camp, and Jabaliya refugee camp; 58 Palestinians are killed, including 3 who allegedly attempted to plant an explosive along the border near Rafah, and more than 1,300 are injured. After unidentified assailants open fire on IDF patrols along the border near Jabaliya refugee camp, the IAF conducts air strikes on Hamas posts near Jabaliya refugee camp, al-Bureij refugee camp, and Gaza City, causing moderate damage. The killings today bring the death toll related to the Great March of Return to 102. Elsewhere in the oPt, thousands of Palestinians gather across the West Bank and Jerusalem to protest the official opening of the U.S. embassy in Jerusalem today. They also release 70 black balloons in Ramallah, marking the 70th anniversary of the Nakba. IDF troops violently disperse the protests at Qalandia checkpoint, Bethlehem, and Hebron; at least 2 Palestinians are injured. Meanwhile, IDF troops arrest 19 Palestinians during latenight raids in and around Bethlehem, Jenin, Nablus, and Hebron; and patrol near Jenin and Hebron. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 7 Palestinians during late-night raids in Issawiyya and the Old City. (AJ, EI, HA, JP, MEE, MNA, TOI, WAFA, YA 5/14; PCHR 5/17)

Hours after Israeli troops open fire on peaceful Palestinian protesters along the border fence in Gaza, senior U.S. and Israeli officials gather for a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the new U.S. embassy in Jerusalem. In a recorded video, U.S. president Trump celebrates the opening and says the U.S. “remains fully committed to facilitating a lasting peace agreement” between Israel and the Palestinians. Outside the ceremony, Israeli police violently disperse approximately 200 protesters, including Joint List MKs Ahmad Tibi, Dov Khenin, Jamal Zahalka, Yousef Jabareen, and Masud Ganaim; 12 Palestinians are arrested. (AJ, BBC, JP, MEE, NYT, TOI 5/14; EI 5/15)

In the evening, the Palestinian leadership convenes in Ramallah to discuss the opening of the U.S. embassy in Jerusalem and the violence in Gaza. PA president Abbas calls the new U.S. embassy in Jerusalem a “settlement outpost” and reiterates that he has no plans to engage in any U.S.-mediated peace talks “in any way, shape, or form.” The assembled officials decide to file a war crimes complaint against Israel to the International Criminal Court (ICC) at The Hague over settlement construction in the West Bank. According to PLO secretary-general Erakat, they also agree to a number of other unspecified responses. (TOI 5/14; AP, YA 5/15)

The South African government recalls its ambassador to Israel and Turkey recalls its ambassadors from Israel and the U.S. in protest of the killings in Gaza today. “The victims were taking part in peaceful protests against the provocative inauguration of the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem,” a South African statement reads. Meanwhile, the U.S. blocks the UNSC from adopting a Kuwait-backed statement condemning the deadly violence in Gaza and calling for an “independent and transparent investigation” into Israel’s actions. (ANA, TOI, WAFA 5/14; HA, TOI 5/15)

The Egyptian authorities open the Rafah border crossing in both directions for the 3d consecutive day. (AHR 5/14; OCHA 5/24)

Thousands of Palestinian protesters gather along Gaza’s border to continue the Great March of Return for a 7th consecutive Friday. The march’s organizing committee says that the theme of the demonstrations this week is “preparation and warning of what’s to come,” referring to the mass protests set for 5/14 to coincide with the formal opening of the new U.S. embassy in Jerusalem. IDF troops violently disperse demonstrations along the border fence near Khan Yunis, Jabaliya refugee camp, al-Bureij refugee camp, Rafah, and Gaza City; 1 Palestinian is killed and hundreds of Palestinians are injured. The killing today brings the death total stemming from the Great March of Return to 43. Meanwhile, Palestinians set fire to a pipeline leading from Israel to Gaza at the Kerem Shalom border crossing, causing major damage. In the West Bank, hundreds of Israeli settlers visit Joseph’s Tomb near Nablus overnight, sparking clashes between their IDF escort and Palestinian residents of the area; 16 Palestinians are injured. Israeli settlers torch a Palestinian home in Duma near Nablus, causing moderate damage. IDF troops arrest 4 Palestinians during late-night raids in and around Nablus, Jenin, and Hebron; and patrol near Jenin, Tulkarm, and Hebron. They also violently disperse Palestinian minors throwing stones at IDF posts in al-Bireh and Jericho; 2 Palestinians are injured. An unidentified driver allegedly rams and slightly injures an IDF soldier at a checkpoint near Nablus. In East Jerusalem, Israeli police violently disperse Palestinians gathering outside Haram al-Sharif to protest Israeli excavation work at an Islamic cemetery nearby; 3 Palestinians are injured and 6 are arrested. IDF troops also arrest 3 Palestinians during late-night raids in Silwan. (HA, JP, TOI, WAFA 5/11; PCHR 5/17)

Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops violently disperse Palestinian protesters participating in the Great March of Return for a 2d day in a row near Bayt Hanun, al-Bureij refugee camp, Rafah, and Jabaliya refugee camp; at least 25 Palestinians are injured. In the West Bank, PA president Abbas calls for a general strike and a day of mourning for the 16 Palestinians killed in Gaza on 3/30. IDF troops violently disperse Palestinians gathering in Hebron to protest the killings; several Palestinians are injured. IDF troops also arrest 2 Palestinians during late-night raids near Bethlehem and patrol near Hebron. Israeli police shoot and injure a Palestinian driver allegedly after he rams 1 of their vehicles near Nablus. In Israel, hundreds of Palestinians march through Umm al-Fahm in commemoration of Land Day. (MNA, TOI, WAFA 3/31; YA 4/1; PCHR 4/5)

U.S. diplomats block the UNSC from adopting a Kuwait-backed statement calling for an “independent and transparent” investigation into the IDF’s deadly crackdown on the Great March of Return, according to several diplomats. “The wording was acceptable to all members of the council excluding the U.S.,” says Israel’s ambassador to the UN Danon. Later, European Union (EU) foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini calls for an independent and transparent investigation. (AFP, HA, TOI 3/31; HA, JP 4/1)

An Israeli drone crashes in southern Lebanon. According to the Lebanese press, a 2d drone destroys the first after it crashed. (HA, YA 3/31)

IDF troops violently disperse Palestinians, Israelis, and international activists at Friday protests against Israel’s settlements, separation wall, and occupation, as well as U.S. president Trump’s 12/6/17 recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital in 4 villages near Ramallah (Bil‘in, Ni‘lin, Budrus, and Nabi Salih), al-Bireh, Kafr Qaddum near Qalqilya, Hebron, and along Gaza’s border in various locations; 1 Palestinian is killed and at least 13 are injured. Reportedly for the first time, the IDF uses a drone to drop tear gas on Palestinian protesters in Gaza. Meanwhile, IDF troops assault and arrest 2 Palestinians at a mobile checkpoint near Bethlehem, issue arrest summons to 3 Palestinians during raids in Bethlehem, and patrol near Qalqilya, Salfit, and Hebron. Israeli settlers clash with Palestinians in Madama village near Nablus; 2 Palestinians are injured and 1 is arrested. Settlers erect tents in the yards of al-Ibrahimi Mosque in Hebron and throw stones at Palestinian vehicles and homes outside nearby Yatta village. Palestinians set fire to an Israeli settler’s home near Nablus, sparking minor clashes with IDF troops; 1 Palestinian is injured. In East Jerusalem, Israeli police block Palestinian activists from organizing a running race to coincide with the Israeli government–organized Jerusalem Marathon, an annual race through the city that requires the closure of a number of main streets; 2 Palestinians are arrested. Approximately 5,000 runners participate in the Jerusalem Marathon. Meanwhile, Israeli forces arrest 1 Palestinian during a raid in Shu‘fat. (HA, JP, TOI, WAFA 3/9; MNA, WAFA 3/10; PCHR 3/15)

Israeli police shoot and injure a Palestinian driver allegedly after he rams and injures 3 Israeli security personnel in Acre in Israel. The police later say the alleged ramming was “politically motivated.” In the West Bank, IDF troops arrest 8 Palestinians during raids near Ramallah, Nablus, Bethlehem, Hebron, and Jenin; and patrol near Hebron, Qalqilya, and Tulkarm. Along Gaza’s border, Israeli drones spray herbicides on Palestinian farmlands near Jabaliya refugee camp. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Bayt Lahiya, causing no damage or injuries. (HA, WAFA 3/4; PCHR 3/8)

Thousands of Palestinians gather at protests across the oPt for a 3d Friday in a row against U.S. pres. Trump’s 12/6 recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital. Israeli forces violently disperse them near Bethlehem, Salfit, Nablus, at the Beit El checkpoint near Ramallah, the Old City of Jerusalem, and along Gaza’s border near Jabaliya refugee camp, al-Bureij refugee camp, Khan Yunis, Rafah, and Gaza City. Two Palestinians are killed and at least 92 are injured. Later, Israeli forces temporarily close the main entrance to Luban al-Sharqiyya village near Nablus, following clashes in the village earlier in the day. The IDF arrests 2 Palestinians during a late-night raid near Bethlehem, and patrols near Hebron. Israeli police arrest 3 Turkish tourists at Haram al-Sharif (they will be released on 12/25). Elsewhere in East Jerusalem, Israeli forces raid a community center in the Old City late at night, sparking minor clashes; 3 Palestinians are injured. (EI, HA, MNA, WAFA 12/22; MNA 12/23; MNA 12/25; PCHR 12/28)

For a 4th day in a row, Palestinians gather across the oPt to protest U.S. pres. Trump’s 12/6 recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital. Israeli forces violently disperse them in Tulkarm, Salfit, Bethlehem, at Huwwara checkpoint near Nablus, al-‘Arub refugee camp near Hebron, and along Gaza’s border near Khan Yunis, Jabaliya refugee camp, Gaza City, al-Bureij refugee camp, and Rafah; at least 24 Palestinians are injured and 8 are arrested. Meanwhile, Israeli forces confiscate Palestinian agricultural equipment near Nablus. IDF troops arrest 21 Palestinians during late-night raids near Ramallah, Jenin, Bethlehem, Nablus, and Salfit; and patrol near Hebron throughout the day. Palestinians throw rocks at Israeli settler cars near Jerusalem, lightly injuring 1 minor. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces uproot a number of trees in a cemetery outside the Old City and arrest a Palestinian attempting to stop them. Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops open fire on Palestinian lands near Jabaliya refugee camp, causing no damage. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Bayt Lahiya late at night, causing no damage or injuries. In West Jerusalem, Israeli police arrest a Palestinian youth after he allegedly stabs and injures 1 of them at the Central Bus Station. They later uncover a message the alleged attacker posted on Facebook indicating that he was motivated, at least in part, by the 12/6 U.S. recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital. (HA, TOI, WAFA 12/10; PCHR 12/14)

The IDF demolishes a tunnel leading from Gaza into Israel near Kibbutz Nirim. “The tunnel that was thwarted today was a very significant tunnel and [built] to higher standards than what we are used to seeing,” a spokesperson says. (HA, NYT, TOI 12/10)

Senior PA official Nabil Shaath says that the PA no longer intends to sever all ties with the U.S. over Trump’s 12/6 recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital. “We are not cutting our relationship with America. We are protesting the move of Mr. Trump,” he says. Shaath says that some forms of communication have continued throughout the recent crisis, but that communication about the peace process has been “interrupted.” (TOI 12/10)

Fatah Central Committee member Azzam al-Ahmad says that there have been “obstacles” blocking the PA from taking full control of Gaza, which was supposed to proceed by today after being delayed from the 12/1 deadline initially enshrined in the 10/12 national reconciliation agreement. The 2 sides neglect to set a new deadline, and the future of the reconciliation process is therefore unclear. (AFP, TOI 12/10)

Israeli police and border guards conduct a series of raids in Issawiyya late at night, arresting at least 50 Palestinians, including 23 children. In the West Bank, Israeli settlers steal olives harvested from 260 trees in Palestinian orchards near Nablus. IDF troops and Israeli settlers assault Palestinian students in central Hebron, claiming they were throwing stones. When Palestinian teachers intervene, the Israeli soldiers arrest 1 of them. Outside Hebron, Palestinian students throw stones at IDF troops stationed near Bayt Umar, causing no injuries; 1 Palestinian is arrested. IDF troops violently disperse the Palestinians, causing no damage or injuries. Israeli settlers throw stones at several Palestinian homes in Umm al-Khayr, sparking a minor altercation with the residents of the village. Meanwhile, the IDF arrests 6 Palestinians during late-night raids in and around Jenin and Tulkarm, and patrols near Tulkarm, Ramallah, and Hebron. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Jabaliya refugee camp, causing no damage or injuries. Along Gaza’s border, Israeli forces open fire on Palestinian agricultural lands near Bayt Hanun, causing no damage or injuries. In Israel, Israeli forces demolish a Palestinian home in Lydda. It was reportedly built without the proper permits. (WAFA 10/22; HA, YA 10/23; MNA 10/24; PCHR 10/26)

In the West Bank, IDF troops shut down the main road in Biddu, a village near Jerusalem, sparking clashes with stone-throwing residents; 7 Palestinians are injured (Biddu is 1 of the 9 Jerusalem-area villages still under lock-down following the deadly shooting at Har Hadar on 9/26). In the northern Jordan Valley, Israeli forces demolish water pipes and raze a road in a rural area outside Atuf. IDF troops then violently disperse Palestinian farmers, human rights activists, and religious leaders marching through Atuf in protest; 1 Palestinian is arrested and 1 is injured. They also arrest 3 Palestinians during late-night raids near Hebron and Ramallah, and patrol near Nablus, Jenin, and Salfit. Approximately 1,500 Israeli settlers visit Joseph’s Tomb near Nablus late at night, sparking minor clashes between their IDF escort and Palestinians from nearby Balata refugee camp; there are no serious injuries. In Israel, police arrest a Palestinian laborer at a construction site in Tel Aviv claiming that he was planning a stabbing attack. (MNA, WAFA 9/27; MNA, PCHR, TOI, WAFA 9/28; PCHR 10/5)

In a meeting with top settler leaders, Israeli PM Netanyahu says that Israel must honor its commitment to the Trump administration to limit settlement construction and not be “piggish.” He also boasts that he had convinced the Trump administration to ignore any distinction between the settlement blocs and isolated settlements. Earlier in the day, Netanyahu reviews with U.S. special representative Greenblatt and U.S. ambassador David Friedman the Israeli government’s pending plans for settlement growth. (HA 9/27; HA 9/28)

Interpol announces that its general assembly has approved Palestine’s petition for full membership, with 75 countries voting in favor, 24 against and 34 abstaining. “The State of Palestine considers this membership and the responsibilities that it entails as an integral part of its responsibility toward the Palestinian people and a moral commitment to the citizens of the world,” the PA says in a statement. (HA, MNA, REU, TOI, WAFA, YA 9/27; AP 9/28)

IDF troops violently disperse Palestinians, Israelis, and international activists at Friday protests against Israel’s occupation, settlements, and separation wall in 3 villages near Ramallah (Nabi Salih, Bil‘in, and Ni‘lin), Kafr Qaddum near Qalqilya, and along Gaza’s border near Jabaliya refugee camp; 4 Palestinians are injured. Elsewhere in the West Bank, the IDF arrests a Palestinian in central Hebron, allegedly for carrying a knife, arrests 1 Palestinian during a late-night raid near Tulkarm, and patrols near Hebron, Nablus, and Salfit. In East Jerusalem, Israeli police violently disperse Palestinians protesting outside the Sheikh Jarrah home where a Palestinian family was evicted on 9/5; 3 Palestinians are arrested. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Khan Yunis, causing no damage or injuries. (MNA, WAFA 9/8; PCHR 9/14)

The Egyptian authorities partially open the Rafah border crossing, allowing Muslims to return from their pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia. (MEMO 9/8; OCHA 9/14)

In the West Bank, IDF troops conduct earlymorning raids in Ramallah, order a print shop to shut down, and spark minor clashes with stone-throwing youths. They arrest 6 Palestinians, assault 2, and confiscate 1 car during late-night raids in and around Hebron, Ramallah, Jenin, and Nablus, and patrol near Salfit, Jenin, and Nablus. An Israeli settler driver strikes a Palestinian youth near Bethlehem, causing critical injuries. In East Jerusalem, the Israeli authorities evict a Palestinian family from their Sheikh Jarrah home of 53 years, allowing Israeli settlers to move into the property. When the family protests, Israeli police assault and arrest 2 of the men, moderately injuring 1 (they will be released on 9/6). The settlers claim to be descendants of the home’s pre-1948 owners. Along Gaza’s border, Israeli forces conduct a limited incursion to level land near Gaza City. (HA, MNA, TOI, WAFA 9/5; EI, MNA 9/6; PCHR 9/14; EI 9/15)

Several international human rights groups, including Amnesty International, condemn PA pres. Abbas for arresting Youth Against Settlements founder Amro on 9/4. Meanwhile, Amro goes on hunger strike to protest his “arbitrary arrest,” according to his brother Ahmad. Amro is also facing charges in Israel related to his alleged incitement to violence against the IDF. (EI, GDN 9/5; AP, TOI 9/6)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces confiscate a Palestinian garbage truck during a raid nr. Nablus. IDF troops arrest 4 Palestinians during late-night raids nr. Nablus and patrol nr. Hebron during the day. In East Jerusalem, at least 700 Jewish settlers tour Haram al-Sharif in the morning to commemorate Tisha B’Av. Israeli police remove 9 who attempt to pray at the sanctuary. Israeli forces conduct an arrest raid in Shu‘fat, sparking minor clashes with stone-throwing Palestinians; there are no serious injuries. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats nr. Bayt Lahiya and later nr. Jabaliya r.c., causing no damage or injuries. In s. Israel, Israeli forces demolish the Bedouin village al-‘Araqib for the 116th time since 2010. (HA, MNA, TOI, WAFA 8/1; MNA 8/2; PCHR 8/3)

PA pres. Abbas meets with a Hamas delegation in Ramallah to discuss national reconciliation. Earlier in the day, the Arab press reports that Abbas has put together a new framework, essentially a broad outline of an agreement in which the PA would increase the electricity supply in Gaza to precrisis levels, and allow banks in Gaza to trade in foreign currency again in exchange for Hamas dismantling its new administrative comm. and publicly renouncing its power-sharing agreement with exiled Fatah leader Dahlan. Hamas responds, demanding that the PA take responsibility for paying all employees of the Hamas-run govt. in Gaza and allowing a new leadership group, including representatives of Hamas and the Islamic Jihad Movement in Palestine, to take control on an interim basis until a new round of elections can be held. (TOI 8/1; MNA, WAFA 8/2)

Ahead of Friday prayers, the Israeli police announce that Palestinian men younger than 50 will be barred from Haram al-Sharif today. They also specifically bar 21 Palestinians from the site and deploy heavily across East Jerusalem. In response to these new restrictions, thousands of young Palestinian men and others pray on the streets of the Old City outside the sanctuary in the morning. Meanwhile, Israeli forces violently disperse Palestinians protesting the recent restrictions to access at the sanctuary across the oPt; 1 Palestinian is killed in Gaza and at least 20 are injured. Amid reports of violence across the region, the Israeli police lift their restrictions on young Palestinian men entering Haram al-Sharif in the early afternoon. (EI, HA, MNA, TOI, WAFA 7/28)

IDF troops shoot and kill a Palestinian at the Gush Etzion junction nr. Bethlehem claiming that he attempted to stab an Israeli soldier. No Israelis are injured in the incident. A Palestinian witness says that the victim had no knife or any other kind of weapon. Elsewhere in the West Bank, IDF troops shoot and injure a Palestinian farmer tending to his lands nr. Salfit. They also arrest 4 Palestinians during raids nr. Bethlehem and in Qalqilya, and patrol in and around Qalqilya and Hebron. (HA, MNA, TOI 7/28; HA, MNA 7/29)

In Amman, hundreds of Jordanians gather outside the Israeli Embassy to protest the fatal shooting of 2 Jordanians by an Israeli security guard on 7/21 and the Israeli embrace of the guard in the wake of the killing. Meanwhile, Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs announces that it has opened an investigation of the 7/21 incident. (HA, IFM, MNA, TOI 7/28; MNA 7/29)

The atmosphere surrounding Haram alSharif remains tense as Israeli forces remove more of the security measures implemented in the wake of the deadly attack on 7/14, and Muslim worshippers continue praying outside the sanctuary. In the West Bank, IDF troops conduct raids in Qalqilya, sparking minor clashes with stone-throwing Palestinians (there are no serious injuries). They arrest 13 Palestinians, issue 1 arrest summons, and confiscate 1 car during further raids nr. Hebron, Nablus, and Qalqilya; and patrol nr. Hebron and Jenin. Israeli settlers begin moving furniture into the building they occupied in c. Hebron on 7/25. The IDF then declares the building a closed military zone to halt escalating tensions. Along Gaza’s border, Israeli forces conduct a limited incursion to level land nr. Bayt Hanun and open fire on agricultural lands nr. Jabaliya r.c., causing no damage or injuries. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats nr. Bayt Lahiya twice, causing no damage or injuries. (HA, MNA, WAFA 7/26; PCHR 7/27; EI 7/28; PCHR 8/3)

Two days after Israel’s security cabinet decided to remove the new metal detectors at Haram al-Sharif, and 1 day after the Islamic Waqf decided to continue protests at the sanctuary, the Israeli press reports that PM Netanyahu has ordered that security checks at the sanctuary be performed with handheld metal detectors only, as they were prior to the deadly attack on 7/14. The Waqf then decides to meet again on 7/27 to discuss developments. Meanwhile, Waqf officials meet with Israeli police and reiterate their demands for all the new security measures to be removed and for conditions at the sanctuary to “return to what they were before.” They specifically asked for the removal of 5 new cameras and several metal railings at the site, and a reduction in police presence. The Israeli police deny that they are in contact with the Waqf. (HA, TOI 7/27)

The Israeli authorities return to their families in Umm al-Fahm the bodies of the 3 Palestinians who allegedly perpetrated the deadly attack in East Jerusalem on 7/14. (MNA 7/27)

Israel’s Knesset passes the first reading of the “United Jerusalem Law,” which the Ministerial Comm. for Legislation first approved on 7/16. (KNE, TOI 7/26; MNA 7/27)

Tensions stemming from new Israeli security measures at Haram al-Sharif boil over, with mass protests and clashes erupting across the oPt throughout the day; 3 Palestinians are killed (all in East Jerusalem), 235 are injured, and 27 are arrested (at least 2 Israelis are injured as well). The Islamic Waqf calls on all imams in Jerusalem to conduct their sermons outside Haram al-Sharif, and thousands of Muslim worshippers gather at the sanctuary. The Israeli police deploy heavily across Jerusalem and bar Palestinian men under the age of 50 from the Old City. In the evening, they cut off electricity to a large swathe of East Jerusalem and close the sanctuary to all visitors (it will remain closed through 7/23). (EI, MNA, NYT, WAFA 7/21; HA, MNA 7/22; WAFA 7/23; HA 7/24; PCHR 7/27)

In light of the crisis at Haram al-Sharif, PA pres. Abbas suspends all PA contacts with Israel, including security coordination. He also calls on Hamas to dismantle its new administrative comm. in Gaza and to turn the collective Palestinian struggle toward Israel. Abbas also phones senior U.S. advisor Kushner urging the U.S. to intercede and push Israel to remove the new security measures at the sanctuary. (MNA, TOI, WAFA, YA 7/21; HA 7/22)

In the evening, a Palestinian enters the Halamish settlement nr. Bethlehem and stabs 4 Israeli settlers, killing 3 and seriously injuring the 4th. An off-duty IDF soldier hears the attack, then shoots and moderately injures the Palestinian assailant. Hours before the attack, the alleged assailant had posted to Facebook, “I’m going to die for al-Aqsa.” Late at night, the IDF raids the alleged attacker’s hometown, Kobar nr. Ramallah, detaining and interrogating his family and imposing a lockdown on the village. Elsewhere in the West Bank, IDF troops arrest 3 Palestinians during raids in Jenin and nr. Bethlehem, and patrol in and around Hebron. (EI, MNA 7/21; HA 7/22; PCHR 7/27)

Tensions remain high at Haram al-Sharif, as Palestinians hold a “day of rage” across the oPt. Muslim worshippers clash with Israeli forces after midday prayers at the Lion’s Gate to the Old City; 2 Palestinians are injured and arrested. Elsewhere, Palestinian, Israeli, and international protesters clash with Israeli forces at Qalandia checkpoint, Shu‘fat, Ramallah, and Bethlehem; at least 8 Palestinians are injured. Protests in Nablus and Tubas are without incident. Meanwhile, after a number of Jewish settlers perform religious rituals at Haram al-Sharif, the Israeli police temporarily suspended Jewish visitation rights to the sanctuary. (HA, JP, MNA, TOI, WAFA, YA 7/19; PCHR 7/20)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces confiscate water pumps and tanks from Bedouin villages in the n. Jordan Valley. IDF troops arrest 8 Palestinians during late-night raids nr. Hebron, Nablus, and Tulkarm; and patrol nr. Hebron during the day. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 10 Palestinians during raids in Silwan, al-Tur, Issawiyya, and Shu‘fat r.c. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats nr. Bayt Lahiya, causing no damage or injuries. (HA, MNA, TOI, WAFA 7/19; PCHR 7/20; PCHR 7/27)

After consulting with top security officials, Israeli PM Netanyahu says, “We want to solve this crisis in the quietest way possible and to bring back the calm.” Israel’s security agencies reportedly support removing the new metal detectors. Separately, a White House spokesperson says that the U.S. is “very concerned” about the situation and calls on “the State of Israel and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan to make a good faith effort to reduce tensions and to find a solution that assures public safety and the security of the site and maintains the status quo.” (TOI 7/19; SA, TOI 7/20)

Israel’s Knesset passes a preliminary reading of the “United Jerusalem Law,” which the Ministerial Comm. for Legislation approved on 7/16. (KNE, MNA, TOI 7/19; HA 7/20)

IDF troops shoot and kill a Palestinian driver n. of Hebron after he allegedly rams a group of Israeli soldiers, injuring 2, according to the IDF. The IDF later raids the driver’s home nearby and interrogates his brother. Elsewhere in the West Bank, Israeli forces deliver stop-work orders to 2 Palestinian families building homes in al-‘Arub r.c. nr. Hebron. IDF troops conduct raids in Bayt Umar village nr. Hebron, sparking minor clashes; there are no serious injuries. They also arrest 8 Palestinians during raids in and around Qalqilya, Bethlehem, Hebron, Ramallah, and Nablus; and patrol nr. Qalqilya and Hebron. (HA, JP, MNA, PNN, TOI, WAFA, YA 7/18; PCHR 7/20)

Amid heightened tensions at Haram al-Sharif, Israeli forces violently disperse Muslim worshippers gathered outside the sanctuary to protest the new Israeli security measures; at least 2 Israeli police officers and 14 Palestinians are injured (1 seriously). The Israeli police remove 1 Jewish settler from the sanctuary after he starts to pray. Elsewhere in East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 6 Palestinians, including 1 Islamic Waqf employee, during raids in Silwan and other areas of the city. (HA, MNA, TOI, WAFA 7/19; PCHR 7/20)

The Saudi press reports that King Salman has sent a message to the Israeli govt. via the U.S. calling for Israel to reopen Haram al-Sharif to Muslim worshippers without the new security measures. Israeli PM Netanyahu reportedly sent a message back to Salman saying that the status quo would remain at the sanctuary, and inviting Saudis to inspect it for themselves. (HA, JP, TOI, WAFA, YA 7/28)

After the Israeli police install new security cameras, turnstiles and metal detectors at 3 entrances to Haram al-Sharif (which was closed after the deadly attack on 7/14), the Islamic Waqf calls for a Muslim boycott of the sanctuary as long as the new security measures are in place. Muslim worshippers then refuse to enter the sanctuary throughout the day and pray outside; 10 protesters are injured and 3 are arrested during scuffles with Israeli forces late at night. Meanwhile, senior Palestinian officials convene in Ramallah and reaffirm that the status quo at Haram al-Sharif should not change after the deadly attack nr. the sanctuary on 7/14. Israeli PM Netanyahu insists that the new security measures do not change the status quo. “Changing the status quo would be a wrong move,” he says. “It would lead to unforeseeable consequences in the world and regional order.” (HA, MNA, PNN, TOI, WAFA 7/16; MNA, WAFA 7/17; PCHR 7/20)

IDF troops shoot and kill a Palestinian during a raid on his home in Nabi Salih village nr. Ramallah. An IDF spokesperson says the soldiers opened fire after the man trained a gun on them, alleging that the deceased was responsible for the shooting attack nr. Ramallah on 7/15. Elsewhere in the West Bank, IDF troops arrest 9 Palestinians during late-night raids in and around Qalqilya, Hebron, Ramallah, Bethlehem, and Nablus; and patrol nr. Hebron. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats nr. Khan Yunis and Bayt Lahiya, injuring 2 fishermen. (HA, MNA, WAFA 7/16; PCHR 7/20)

Israel’s Ministerial Comm. for Legislation approves a bill, dubbed the “United Jerusalem Law,” that would require a supermajority of the Knesset, 80 MKs, to agree to any concession of land within Jerusalem’s current city limits. It would also stipulate that a simple majority, 61 MKs, could approve a shift in Jerusalem’s borders, which would allow land outside the city to be ceded in the context of a peace agreement with the Palestinians. The bill now goes to the full Knesset for a 1st reading. (HA, KNE 7/16)

Three Palestinian citizens of Israel open fire on Israeli police officers in the Old City of Jerusalem, critically injuring 3 (2 succumb to their injuries later in the day). The attackers seek refuge at Haram al-Sharif, and Israeli forces shoot and kill all 3. Israeli police deploy heavily across the Old City, block off all entrances to Haram al-Sharif, and cancel Friday prayers at the sanctuary, forcing Muslim worshippers to pray in the streets. They also detain and interrogate 58 Islamic Waqf employees. With tensions running high across the city, an unidentified assailant throws a Molotov cocktail at an Israeli settler family driving through Silwan; 3 of the settlers are injured, including an infant. Israeli forces conduct raids in Abu Dis, sparking minor clashes with stone-throwing Palestinians; at least 25 are arrested. In the West Bank, IDF troops conduct raids in Dahaysha r.c. nr. Bethlehem, arresting 3 Palestinians and sparking clashes; 1 Palestinian is killed. Israeli settlers throw stones at Palestinian cars driving nr. Bethlehem, causing no injuries or major damage. IDF troops violently disperse Palestinians, Israelis, and international activists at Friday protests against the Israeli occupation, separation wall, and settlements in 3 villages nr. Ramallah (Bil‘in, Ni‘lin, and Nabi Salih), Kafr Qaddum nr. Qalqilya, and along Gaza’s border nr. al-Bureij r.c. and Jabaliya r.c.; 2 Palestinians are injured. The IDF also patrols in and around Qalqilya and Hebron. (EI, HA, MNA, NYT, PNN, TOI, WAFA, YA 7/14; MNA 7/15; PCHR 7/20)

PA pres. Abbas phones Israeli PM Netanyahu to condemn the morning’s attack in Jerusalem and to denounce violence on both sides, particularly at holy sites. He also calls for Netanyahu to reopen Haram al-Sharif. Netanyahu reportedly tells Abbas that he will uphold the status quo at the sanctuary, but that Israeli forces will maintain security at all costs. Abbas later calls on Jordan to intervene, and the Jordanian govt. releases a statement calling on Israel to reopen the sanctuary. (HA, TOI, WAFA 7/14; HA 7/16)

After shutting down on 7/12, the Gaza power plant resumes operations, with 3 of its turbines supplying 70 MW to the local grid. It’s unclear if the fuel required came from Egypt or somewhere else. (MNA 7/15)

In the West Bank, IDF troops shut down the main entrance to a Palestinian industrial area nr. Hebron. They also arrest 1 Palestinian during a raid nr. Ramallah and patrol during the day nr. Hebron. Israeli settlers assault 5 Palestinians in West Jerusalem. The Israeli police then arrest the Palestinians. Along Gaza’s border, Israeli forces conduct a limited incursion to level land nr. Jabaliya r.c. (MNA 6/22; PCHR 7/6)

Following PA pres. Abbas’s meeting with senior U.S. advisor Kushner on 6/21, some Palestinian officials express disappointment with the Trump admin.’s failure to condemn recent reports of Israeli settlement construction, adding that they are especially concerned about this as the U.S.-led effort to restart peace talks begins. One official says, “It is impossible to speak about [bringing the sides] to serious negotiations as long as Israel continues massive construction in the settlements with a green light . . . or thunderous silence [from the U.S.]” (HA 6/22)

Using diesel fuel shipped from Egypt over the past few days, Gaza’s power plant resumes operations for the 1st time since 4/2017 (see JPS 46 [4]). The Egyptian authorities are set to ship another 1 m. L of fuel into Gaza on 6/24. (MNA, TOI 6/22; MNA 6/24)

Israeli PM Netanyahu approves a project to add 300 new housing units to the Beit El settlement in the West Bank. On 6/19, he reportedly told Beit El’s mayor that plans will be formally advanced in 9/2017 in a private meeting. The mayor had been publicly criticizing Netanyahu for holding up the plan. (TOI 6/22)

Israeli forces shoot and seriously injure a Palestinian after he allegedly stabs and lightly injures an Israeli police officer in Netanya. They arrest the man, a resident of Tulkarm, and take him to a hospital (he will succumb to his injuries on 5/25). In the West Bank, IDF troops shoot and injure a Palestinian youth allegedly throwing stones at them outside Silwad nr. Ramallah. They also arrest 1 Palestinian during late-night raids in and around Hebron and Nablus, and patrol nr. Hebron. Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops violently disperse Palestinians nr. al-Bureij r.c. and nr. Khan Yunis protesting in solidarity with the prisoners on hunger strike; 1 Palestinian is seriously injured. (HA, JP, MNA 5/23; PCHR 5/25)

On the 2d and final day of his visit to Israel and the oPt, U.S. pres. Trump meets briefly with Palestinian Authority (PA) pres. Mahmoud Abbas in Bethlehem before returning to Israel for a short tour of Yad Vashem. According to a White House statement released in the evening, Abbas tells Trump he is ready to “begin negotiating [with Israel] immediately,” without mentioning any preconditions . In a joint press conference with Abbas, Trump says, “I truly believe if Israel and the Palestinians can make peace, it will begin a process for peace in the Middle East. Abbas assures me he is ready to work toward that goal in good faith, and [Israeli PM] Netanyahu has promised the same.” He then says, “Peace can never take root in an environment where violence is tolerated, funded, and even rewarded,” referring to allegations that the PA is fostering anti-Israeli incitement. Later, on Trump’s flight from Israel to Rome, a senior U.S. official says that the pres. is hoping to reach a “common set of principles” on which to restart peace talks. (HA, JP, MNA, NYT, TOI, WHPO 5/23; HA, JP, TOI 5/24; TOI 5/25)

Armed fighters in the Sinai Peninsula fire a rocket into s. Israel overnight. It lands in an open space, causing no damage or injuries. No group claims responsibility. (JP, TOI 5/23)

Israeli forces shoot and kill a Palestinian youth in the Old City of Jerusalem after she allegedly attempts to stab an Israeli police officer at Damascus Gate, causing no injuries. Palestinian witnesses say that she did not pose a threat to the police, and that she was “executed in cold blood.” Elsewhere in East Jerusalem, the Israeli police open a new station in Shu‘fat r.c. It’s the first of 5 new stations planned across East Jerusalem as part of the NIS 1 b. plan to increase security announced in 8/2016 (see JPS 46 [1]). Meanwhile, Israeli forces arrest 6 Palestinians during late-night raids in Silwan and the Old City. Along Gaza’s border, Israeli forces conduct limited incursions to level land nr Dayr al-Balah and Khan Yunis. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats nr. Bayt Lahiya, causing no damage or injuries. In the West Bank, Israeli settlers assault Palestinian farmers protesting the expansion of a settler bypass road nr. Ramallah; there are no serious injuries. IDF troops confiscate surveillance tapes, arrest 8 Palestinians, and issue 2 arrest summons during late-night raids in and around Bethlehem, Qalqilya, and Hebron; and patrol nr. Nablus and Hebron during the day. (HA, MNA 5/7; MNA 5/8; PCHR 5/11)

The Egyptian authorities open the Rafah border crossing for the 2d of 3 planned days. They also announce that the crossing will be open an additional day on 5/9. (WAFA 5/7)

The IPS releases footage, taken on 4/27 and 5/5, purportedly showing Marwan Barghouti eating cookies and candy in his prison cell. Barghouti, the Fatah leader who organized the Dignity Strike, is currently being held at Kishon Prison. Some IPS sources say that they provided him with the food to see if they could get him to break his strike. Barghouti’s lawyer and various Palestinian leaders dismiss the videos as forgeries. (JP, NYT, TOI 5/7; HA 5/8)

Israel’s Ministerial Comm. for Legislation approves a new version of the so-called nation-state bill, which would cancel Arabic’s status as an “official language” of Israel and codify Israel’s status as the “national home of the Jewish people”. Disagreements over previous drafts of this bill led to the dissolution of the Knesset and national elections in 3/2015 (see JPS 44 [3, 4]). Unlike earlier drafts, the version approved today does not subordinate Israel’s democracy to its Jewish character. (HA, JP, TOI 5/7)

Israeli police shoot and kill an Israeli settler after he allegedly attempts to stab 1 of them on the East Jerusalem side of the Hizma checkpoint. They reportedly mistook the settler for a Palestinian. Israeli forces later find the settler’s suicide note, showing that he intentionally attacked them with the goal of being killed. Elsewhere in East Jerusalem, approx. 90 right-wing Jewish activists tour Haram al-Sharif in the morning, marking Israel’s Independence Day. Israeli forces arrest 13 Palestinians during late-night raids in Sur al-Bahir, Silwan, and al-Tur. In the West Bank, Israeli settlers destroy a Palestinian well in al-Khadir nr. Bethlehem. Israeli forces level Palestinian land nr. Salfit to clear the area for settlers from nearby Ariel. IDF troops establish a checkpoint nr. Nablus, sparking minor clashes with stone-throwing Palestinians; there are no serious injuries. They also arrest 3 Palestinians during a raid nr. Bethlehem and patrol nr. Qalqilya. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats nr. Bayt Lahiya on 2 separate occasions, causing no damage or injuries. Along Gaza’s border, Israeli forces open fire on Palestinian farmers and shepherds working nr. al-Bureij r.c., causing no injuries; and conduct a limited incursion to level land nr. Khan Yunis late at night. In Israel, thousands of Palestinians participate in the “March of Return” at the site of the depopulated al-Kabri village in the Galilee to highlight the rights of Palestinian refugees and commemorate the Nakba. (HA, WAFA 5/2; MNA 5/3; PCHR 5/4)

A former Palestinian prisoner dies of kidney failure at a hospital nr. Ramallah. He developed kidney issues as a result of medical negligence while he was in Israeli prison, according to the head of the PA’s prisoners’ affairs comm., Issa Qaraqe. (MNA, TOI, WAFA 5/2)

A West Bank Palestinian stabs and injures 4 people in Tel Aviv before the Israeli police arrest him. Hours after the attack, COGAT suspends single-day work permits granted to various organizations and groups to allow Palestinians to enter Israel and begins an investigation into the matter. The alleged attacker hailed from Nablus and obtained one such permit from a group called Natural Peace Tours, which facilitates relationships between individual Israelis and Palestinians. (HA, JP, MNA, TOI, WAFA 4/23)

In the West Bank, the IDF shuts down the main entrance to a group of villages nr. Ramallah. It’s unclear what prompted the closure. IDF troops shoot and injure 3 Palestinians during clashes sparked by reports of stone throwing in Kafr Malik village nr. Ramallah; establish mobile checkpoints outside Bayt Umar, sparking further clashes (there are no serious injuries). Meanwhile, IDF troops arrest 6 Palestinians and issue 2 arrest summons during late-night raids nr. Ramallah and Hebron, and patrol nr. Hebron throughout the day. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 1 Palestinian and issue 1 arrest summons during raids in Silwan. An Israeli settler driver allegedly rams and injures 2 Palestinian youths s. of the city, sparking minor clashes between Israeli forces and Palestinians in the area; there are no serious injuries. (HA, JP, MNA, TOI, WAFA 4/23; PCHR 4/27)

The International Comm. of the Red Cross (ICRC) announces that it may consider the Palestinian prisoners’ demand for increased family visits, which they made in the context of the Dignity Strike. The ICRC used to coordinate 2 family visits per prisoner per mo. In 5/2016, however, the organization reduced the monthly visits to 1 due to an increased number of “no-shows” on the part of the families, according to an ICRC spokesperson. Meanwhile, IDF troops violently disperse Palestinians marching from c. Ramallah to the Beit El checkpoint in solidarity with the prisoners; 3 Palestinians are injured. (TOI 4/23)

Israeli forces launch an air strike on a proSyrian govt. militia group nr. Qunaytra in the Golan Heights, killing 3 soldiers, according to a statement from the group. The IDF does not comment on the strike. (HA, JP, TOI 4/23)

Approximately 100 Israeli settlers smash windows and attempt to break into a home in ‘Urif village nr. Nablus before Palestinian residents of the village force them away. IDF troops then violently disperse the residents of ‘Urif; 4 Palestinians and 1 IDF soldier are injured. Israeli settlers also throw stones at Palestinian homes and vehicles in nearby Huwwara, lightly injuring 1 Palestinian and causing no serious damage. Meanwhile, the IDF arrests 11 Palestinians and issues 4 arrest summons during raids in and around Bethlehem and Tulkarm; and patrols nr. Hebron, Qalqilya, and Nablus during the day. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces shoot and injure 1 Palestinian during a violent raid in al-Issawiyya late at night. (HA, MNA, TOI, WAFA 4/22; JP, MNA, TOI 4/23; PCHR 4/27)

A group of Fatah-affiliated prisoners in Israel’s Ramon Prison join the Dignity Strike that approx. 1,500 prisoners declared on 4/17. The IPS moves several PFLP leaders to solitary confinement. Meanwhile, hundreds of Palestinians gather across Gaza, Israel, and the West Bank to demonstrate in solidarity with the prisoners. Israeli police violently suppress protests in Silwan; 1 Palestinian is injured. (EI, HA, MNA, WAFA 4/22; JP, TOI 4/23)

Israeli forces arrest a mentally unstable Palestinian after he stabs and kills a UK woman on the Jerusalem Light Rail nr. the Old City. Elsewhere in Jerusalem, Israeli police arrest 4 Muslim worshippers when they attempt to stop Jewish settlers from praying at Haram alSharif. They arrest 10 more as they are exiting the sanctuary, and also arrest 2 Palestinians during raids in Shu‘fat. In the West Bank, IDF troops arrest a Palestinian at a checkpoint outside Nabi Salih after he is found to be carrying a knife. Meanwhile, they violently disperse Palestinians, Israelis, and international activists at Friday demonstrations against Israel’s occupation, separation wall, settlements, and withholding of Palestinian corpses in 3 villages nr. Ramallah (Nabi Salih, Bil‘in, and Ni‘lin), Kafr Qaddum nr. Qalqilya, and Bethlehem; 4 Palestinians are injured. They also establish a mobile checkpoint e. of Tubas, sparking clashes with stone-throwing Palestinians; 4 Palestinians are injured. The IDF patrols nr. Hebron during the day. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats nr. Jabaliya r.c., causing no injuries or damage. Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops open fire on Palestinian farmers nr. Juhur al-Dik and again nr. Khan Yunis, causing no injuries. (HA, JP, MNA, NYT, TOI, WAFA 4/14; HA 4/15; PCHR 4/20)

The Israeli authorities open the Kerem Shalom border crossing to allow fuel to enter Gaza. They closed the crossing for Passover on 4/9, and are set to shut it down again from 4/15 through 4/17. (MNA 4/14)

The Gaza Electricity Distribution Company (GEDCO) temporarily cuts off power throughout the region in protest of “unfair measures” imposed on the people of Gaza, including the reduction of former PA employees’ salaries. (MNA 4/14)

IDF troops clash with stone-throwing Palestinian youths at a checkpoint outside Ramallah; 2 Palestinians are lightly injured. Elsewhere in the West Bank, IDF troops arrest a Palestinian allegedly planning a stabbing attack at Huwwara checkpoint nr. Nablus, arrest 7 Palestinians during late-night raids nr. Jenin, Hebron, Tubas, Ramallah, and Nablus; and patrol during the day in and around Qalqilya and Hebron. Israeli forces demolish a residential structure nr. Jericho. Palestinian youths throw stones at an IDF vehicle that reportedly entered Sa‘ir village nr. Hebron by accident. PASF and IDF troops then enter the village to escort the vehicle out. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 4 Islamic Waqf guards at Haram al-Sharif after they prevent an Israeli archaeologist from removing several stones from the sanctuary. The Israeli police escort the archaeologist and his colleagues out of the sanctuary and arrest 6 more guards during late-night raids across the city. (MNA, TOI, WAFA 3/27; HA, MNA 3/28; PCHR 3/30)

After closing it on 3/26, the Hamas-run Ministry of Interior in Gaza conditionally re-opens the Erez border crossing this morning. Medical patients, families visiting prisoners in Israel, women of all ages, and men between the ages of 15 and 45 are allowed to exit Gaza, and all are able to enter, as long as they possess the appropriate permissions. Meanwhile, Hamas’s Atty. Gen. Ismail Jaber issues a gag order on the publication of any information relating to the investigation into the killing of senior military cmdr. Fuqaha on 3/24. (HA, JP, MNA, TOI 3/27)

Israeli PM Netanyahu has decided to reassess his ban on Israeli MKs and ministers visiting Haram al-Sharif, according to reports in the Israeli press today. Any change in the current policy would come after a 3-mo. assessment period. Netanyahu instituted the ban in 10/2015 during the habba, the surge of Palestinian resistance, random attacks, and protests that began in Jerusalem in 9/2015. (JP, TOI 3/27; MNA 3/29)

IDF troops open fire on a Palestinian vehicle driving outside Jalazun r.c. nr. Ramallah, killing 1 Palestinian youth and seriously injuring the other 3 occupants (1 of the youths will succumb to his injuries on 4/10). IDF troops then shut down a major checkpoint nearby and violently disperse Palestinians from the camp gathering to protest the shooting; there are no serious injuries. Elsewhere in the West Bank, the IDF shuts down several checkpoints in n. Hebron in response to stone throwing in the area. Israeli forces raid and damage the contents of 2 Palestinian printing shops in Tulkarm, and arrest 5 Palestinians during raids nr. Salfit and in Hebron; and patrol nr. Nablus and Hebron. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces arrest 2 Palestinian fishermen and confiscate their boat nr. Gaza City. Later, they open fire on Palestinian fishing boats nr. Jabaliya r.c., causing no damage or injuries. In East Jerusalem, an Israeli police officer assaults and injures several Palestinians in Wadi al-Juz after 1 of them reportedly rammed him with a car. (HA, MNA, WAFA 3/23; EI, MNA 3/24; PCHR 3/30)

Concluding 4 days of talks in Washington, Israeli and U.S. officials release a joint statement saying that the Israeli govt. intends to take the Trump admin.’s concerns regarding settlement activity in the oPt “into consideration.” They do not reach a broader agreement on the subject. The talks were focused on “concrete, nr.-term measures to improve the overall climate in order to advance the prospects for a genuine and lasting peace between Israel and the Palestinians,” including steps Israel could take to improve the economic situation in the oPt and the need to bring humanitarian relief to Gaza. (NYT, WP 3/23; HA 3/24; HA 3/26)

The U.S. Senate confirms Friedman as the new amb. to Israel in 52–46 vote. Only 2 Democrats vote in favor of U.S. pres. Trump’s nominee: Robert Menendez (D-NJ) and Joe Manchin (D-WV). (CNN, HA, JP, TOI 3/23)

Israeli police shoot and kill a Palestinian youth outside the Old City of Jerusalem after he allegedly stabs and injures 2 of them. Israeli forces then raid the alleged attacker’s home in Jabal Mukabir, sparking minor clashes with residents of the area; 5 Palestinians are arrested. Elsewhere in East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 8 Palestinians during raids in Silwan. In the West Bank, hundreds of Palestinians gather in Ramallah to protest the PASF’s violent assault on protesters on 3/12, and to call for PA pres. Abbas to end security coordination with Israel and resign. Meanwhile, IDF troops arrest 13 Palestinians during raids nr. Jenin, Hebron, Nablus, and Bethlehem; and patrol nr. Hebron and Ramallah. Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops arrest 3 Palestinians attempting to cross into Israel. (HA, IMEMC, JP, MNA, TOI, WAFA 3/13; EI 3/14; PCHR 3/16)

The Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP) announces that it will not be participating in the municipal elections set for 5/13 in protest of the PA’s repression of demonstrations against security coordination on 3/12. Meanwhile, a PA spokesperson announces that Ramallah’s chief of police Abd al-Latif al-Qaddumi has resigned, but denies that his resignation is coming as a result of the 3/12 protests against PA security coordination with Israel, which were held outside a court in Ramallah and violently dispersed by PA security forces. PM Hamdallah announces that he has appointed a fact-finding comm. to look into the events at the 3/12 protests. (MNA 3/13; JP 3/14)

Jason Greenblatt, U.S. pres. Trump’s special representative for international negotiations, meets with Israeli PM Netanyahu in Jerusalem for 5 hours. According to a joint statement, they discussed settlements “in the hope of working out an approach that is consistent with the goal of advancing peace and security.” Later, Greenblatt meets with senior Palestinian officials in Ramallah, who tell him they are interested in the Trump admin. presenting its own plan for a peace deal. Greenblatt is set to remain in Israel and the oPt all week for more meetings, including with PA pres. Abbas on 3/14. (ALM, HA, JP 3/13; HA, NYT, TOI, WAFA 3/14)