The Palestine Chronology

In the West Bank, IDF troops shoot and injure 4 Palestinians amid clashes outside Birzeit University near Ramallah and in Jericho, and arrest a Palestinian woman, allegedly for carrying a knife, at a checkpoint in central Hebron. They also arrest 14 Palestinians during further raids in and around Salfit, Jericho, Ramallah, Tulkarm, Jenin, Nablus, and Bethlehem; and patrol near Salfit, Jericho, and Nablus. Israeli forces seal the entrance to ’Usarin village near Nablus. Israeli settlers cut down approximately 15 Palestinian-owned olive trees near Nablus. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 2 Palestinians during latenight raids in Anata refugee camp and Qatanna. Along Gaza’s border, Israeli forces conduct a limited incursion to level lands near Khan Yunis and open fire on Palestinian farmlands near Gaza City. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Jabaliya refugee camp and Bayt Lahiya, seriously injuring 1 fisherman (2 fishermen are arrested). (TOI, WAFA 1/8; PCHR 1/11)

The Israel Electric Corp. increases the amount of electricity being supplied to Gaza to 120 megawatts, following the PA’s 1/3 request to end the 40% reduction requested by the Palestinian authorities last year in an effort to increase pressure on Hamas. (EI, HA, YA 1/8)

Hamas announces that a member of its military wing died this morning in an “accidental explosion” in northern Gaza. Along Gaza’s border, the IAF sprays herbicides on Palestinian farmlands near Gaza City. In the West Bank, IDF troops conduct raids in al-Mazra‘a near Ramallah and Salim village near Nablus, sparking clashes with Palestinian youths in each; 1 Palestinian is injured and another is arrested. IDF troops also arrest 11 Palestinians during late-night raids in and around Qalqilya and Bethlehem, and patrol near Qalqilya and Salfit. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 8 Palestinians during latenight raids in al-Tur, Qatanna, and the Old City. (TOI 1/7; PCHR 1/11)

Israel’s Strategic Ministry publishes a “blacklist” of 20 organizations supporting the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement, whose members are being denied entry into Israel. “We have shifted from defense to offense,” Strategic Affairs Minister Gilad Erdan says. “The boycott organizations need to know that the State of Israel will act against them and not allow [them] to enter its territory to harm its citizens.” Several individuals from listed organizations have reportedly already been denied entry because of their support for BDS. (AJ, HA, JP, WP 1/7; HA 1/8)

Israel’s Energy Minister Yuval Steinitz instructs the Israel Electric Corp. to restore Israel’s supply of electricity to Gaza to 120 megawatts per day, due to the “PA’s willingness to renew payments.” (JP, MEMO, REU, YA 1/7)

IDF troops shoot and kill a Palestinian amid clashes sparked by an IDF raid in Dayr Nizam village near Ramallah (3 other Palestinians are injured). Meanwhile, the IDF arrests 7 Palestinians and issues 1 arrest summons during late-night raids in and around Hebron, Jenin, and Nablus; and patrols near Hebron and Nablus. In East Jerusalem, Israeli settlers perform a marriage ceremony at Haram al-Sharif, violating long-standing agreements barring non-Muslim religious rites at the sanctuary. Israeli forces arrest 3 Palestinians during late-night raids in Jabal Mukabir. (HA, MNA, TOI, WAFA 1/3; PCHR 1/4; PCHR 1/11)

Unidentified parties fire 2 rockets from Gaza into southern Israel. They land in open areas, causing no damage or injuries. Late at night, the Israeli Air Force launches air strikes and artillery shelling in Gaza. (HA, JP, TOI 1/3; HA, JP, MNA, WAFA, YA 1/4; PCHR 1/11)

Responding to the U.S. threats to suspend economic aid on 1/2, a PA spokesperson says that the Palestinians will not back down from their decision to abandon the U.S. peace initiative. “Jerusalem is the eternal capital of the state of Palestine and it is not for sale for gold or billions,” he says. Fatah Central Committee member al-Ahmad says that the Palestinians will not accept the U.S. as a “partner in the peace process” unless it reverses Pres. Trump’s 12/6 recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital. (AFP, TOI, WAFA 1/3)

PA minister of civil affairs Hussein al-Sheikh announces that Pres. Abbas instructed him to ask Israel to resume supplying 120 megawatts of electricity to Gaza, which would bring Israeli-supplied power back to the same levels as before the PA partially suspended electricity payments in 4/2017. (JP, WAFA 1/3; HA 1/4)

Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops violently disperse Palestinian youths gathering near Khuza‘a and Khan Yunis to protest U.S. pres. Trump’s 12/6 recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital; 2 Palestinians are moderately injured. In the West Bank, Israeli settlers set up residential tents on Palestinian-owned land near Nablus, establishing a new illegal settlement outpost. IDF troops conduct raids in Salim village near Nablus, sparking minor clashes with the residents; 1 Palestinian is injured. The IDF arrests 10 Palestinians during late-night raids near Hebron, Jenin, and Nablus; and patrols near Qalqilya and Hebron. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces demolish a Palestinian home in Bayt Hanina and confiscate the contents of a Palestinian shop in Silwan. (MNA, WAFA 1/2; PCHR 1/4)

On Twitter, U.S. pres. Trump threatens to withhold future economic aid to the Palestinians because they are “no longer willing to talk peace” with Israel. Earlier, U.S. ambassador to the UN Haley responds to a question about U.S. support for Palestinians, and UNRWA in particular, by saying that the Trump administration plans to cut U.S. aid unless the Palestinians re-engage in the U.S. peace initiative. (BBC, JP, TOI, YA 1/2; AP, EI, HA 1/3)

Unidentified parties fire a rocket from the Khan Yunis area toward Israel. It lands in an open area near Eshkol, causing no damage or injuries. The IAF conducts air strikes on a Hamas military site north of Khan Yunis late at night, destroying it and causing minor damage to the surrounding buildings. Earlier, Israeli forces conduct a limited incursion to level land along Gaza’s border near Khan Yunis. In the West Bank, IDF troops arrest 8 Palestinians during late-night raids in and around Qalqilya, Jenin, Bethlehem, Hebron, and Nablus; and patrol in the Hebron district. They also assault a Palestinian at a checkpoint near Hebron, claiming that he had a knife. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 3 Palestinians during a latenight raid in Anata refugee camp. (HA, TOI 1/1; MNA, WAFA, YA 1/2; PCHR 1/4)

Israel’s Knesset passes into law an amendment to Israel’s Basic Law on Jerusalem that strengthens Israeli control over the city. The law requires 80 of 120 members of Knesset (MKs) to approve any proposal that would cede Israeli territory to a “foreign party,” which would be likely in any future peace agreement with the Palestinians. Previously, Israeli law required only a simple Knesset majority to approve such a transfer. (KNE, NYT 1/1; HA, JP, NYT, REU, TOI 1/2)

An Israeli military court indicts Ahed Tamimi, the teenaged Palestinian activist whose confrontation with IDF troops on 12/15 sparked a wave of protests and international solidarity, on 12 charges related to her slapping and shoving of an Israeli soldier on 12/15 and her past activism. (HA, MNA 1/1; EI 1/2)

In the West Bank, IDF troops conduct raids in Dayr Nizam, al-Bireh, and Beitunia near Ramallah, sparking minor clashes with Palestinian youths in each village; 3 Palestinians are arrested. They arrest 21 more Palestinians and issue arrest summons to another during late-night raids in and around Nablus, Salfit, Tulkarm, Bethlehem, and Hebron; and patrol near Hebron and Tulkarm. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 1 Palestinian during a raid in Issawiyya. (PCHR 1/4)

Following the rocket fire from Gaza on 12/29, PM Netanyahu reiterates that Israel holds Hamas accountable for any rockets fired toward Israel, and says that Israeli forces have struck Hamas sites 40 times in recent weeks. He is responding to Labor Party leader Avi Gabbay’s 12/30 criticism. (TOI, WAFA 12/31)

The Likud Central Committee unanimously approves a resolution calling on the party’s leaders, including PM Netanyahu, to extend Israeli sovereignty to West Bank settlements: “On the 50th anniversary of the liberation of the regions of Judea and Samaria [the West Bank], including Jerusalem our eternal capital, the Likud Central Committee calls on the Likud’s elected officials to act to allow free construction and to apply the laws of Israel and its sovereignty to all liberated areas of Jewish settlement in Judea and Samaria.” (TOI 12/31; HA, NYT 1/1)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces shut down the north entrances to al-Bireh and Ramallah, sparking minor clashes; there are no serious injuries. IDF troops arrest 4 Palestinians and issue 2 arrest summons during late-night raids near Nablus, Bethlehem, and Hebron; and patrol near Hebron and Tulkarm. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 3 Palestinians during raids in Biddu and Issawiyya. Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops open fire on Palestinian farmland near Dayr al-Balah, causing no serious damage. (WAFA 12/31; PCHR 1/4)

The IAF conducts air strikes on several Hamas sites in southern Gaza, causing moderate damage. This is the 2d round of IAF strikes in Gaza in response to rocket fire on 12/29. Meanwhile, Israel’s Labor Party leader Avi Gabbay criticizes PM Netanyahu for failing to stop the rocket fire from Gaza. (TOI, YA 12/30; WAFA 12/31; PCHR 1/4)

A Palestinian succumbs to injuries sustained in clashes with IDF troops along Gaza’s border on 12/29. (HA, MNA, TOI 12/30; PCHR 1/4)

Thousands of Palestinians gather at protests across the oPt for a 4th Friday in a row against U.S. pres. Trump’s 12/6 recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital. Israeli forces violently disperse them in and around Hebron, al-Bireh, Bethlehem, Kafr Qaddum near Qalqilya, ‘Izzariya (East Jerusalem), 2 areas near Nablus (Beita and Huwwara checkpoint), and in various locations along Gaza’s border. At least 57 Palestinians are injured (5 seriously), and at least 8 are arrested. Meanwhile, IDF troops patrol near Hebron, Qalqilya, and Salfit. In the Negev, Israeli forces demolish the Palestinian Bedouin village of al-Araqib for the 123d time since 2010. (HA, TOI, WAFA 12/29; PCHR 1/4)

Unidentified parties fire 3 rockets from Gaza toward Israel. Israel’s Iron Dome missile defense system intercepts 2; the 3d hits a building, causing light damage and no injuries. Israeli forces conduct strikes on 2 sites in northern Gaza, causing some damage. Israel’s DM Lieberman says that Iran supplied the projectiles fired at Israel today. (HA, TOI, WAFA 12/29; MNA 12/30; HA 1/3)

In an interview with the Jerusalem Post, U.S. ambassador to Israel David Friedman says that the Trump administration is “disappointed with some of the rhetoric” coming from the Palestinians in response to U.S. pres. Trump’s 12/6 recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital. He calls it “ugly, needlessly provocative, and anti-Semitic.” (JP, TOI 12/29)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces violently disperse Palestinian protesters gathering outside Ofer Prison in solidarity with imprisoned Palestinian activist Ahed Tamimi; there are no serious injuries. They shoot and injure 2 Palestinians during minor clashes near Ramallah. Israeli border police arrest a Palestinian, allegedly for carrying a bomb into a courthouse near Bethlehem. The IDF arrests 5 more Palestinians during late-night raids in Qalqilya and near Salfit, Jenin, and Hebron; and patrols near Hebron and Tulkarm. More than 20 Israeli settlers enter a Palestinian school in Burin village near Nablus, sparking clashes with stone-throwing students; 2 students are injured and 2 Palestinian vehicles are damaged. The settlers claim that some students from Burin threw stones at their cars earlier in the day. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 1 Palestinian during a raid in Issawiyya. In 4 separate incidents off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Bayt Lahiya and Jabaliya refugee camp, causing no damage or injuries (2 fishermen are arrested). Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops open fire on Palestinian farmlands near Dayr al-Balah, causing no serious damage. (IMEMC, MNA, TOI, WAFA 12/28; PCHR 1/4)

PA FM al-Maliki says that the Palestinian leadership has decided to request, at a summit planned for 1/6 in Amman, the implementation of the Amman Summit resolutions of 1980, which stipulated a political and economic boycott of any country that moves its embassy in Israel to Jerusalem. He also says that the PA will lobby in countries where Israeli diplomats are pressing governments to move their embassies to Jerusalem, and that they will wait for a new composition of the UNSC before resubmitting their application for full membership at the UN. (WAFA, WP 12/28)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces again close the main entrance to Luban al-Sharqiyya village near Nablus, following recent clashes in the village (they temporarily closed it on 12/22 after the clashes first broke out). IDF troops arrest 24 Palestinians during late-night raids near Hebron, Ramallah, Nablus, Jenin, Bethlehem, and Qalqilya; and patrol in and around Hebron. (WAFA 12/24; PCHR 12/28)

A Palestinian youth succumbs to injuries sustained during clashes with the IDF along Gaza’s border on 12/8. (TOI, WAFA 12/24; PCHR 12/28)

The Israeli press reports that PA pres. Abbas told his deputies that the U.S. is a “lost cause” and ordered them to sever all contacts with U.S. officials, expanding the high-level diplomatic break he ordered in the wake of Trump’s 12/6 recognition of Jerusalem. (TOI 12/24)

Guatemalan pres. Jimmy Morales announces that his government intends to follow the U.S. lead and move its embassy in Israel to Jerusalem. Guatemala was among the small group of countries that opposed the UNGA resolution on 12/21. (AP, CNN, TOI 12/24; WP 12/28)

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)

Hundreds of Palestinians gather at protests across the West Bank against U.S. pres. Trump’s 12/6 recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital. IDF troops violently disperse them near Hebron and Qalqilya; 3 Palestinians are injured. Meanwhile, the IDF patrols near Hebron, Tulkarm, Salfit, and Qalqilya. Israeli settlers cut down 20 Palestinian-owned olive trees near Nablus. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire at Palestinian fishing boats near Bayt Lahiya on 2 separate occasions, causing no damage or injuries (2 fishermen are arrested). Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops open fire on Palestinian farmers and shepherds working near Gaza City, causing no damage or injuries. (MNA, TOI, WAFA 12/21; PCHR 12/28)

The UNGA adopts Resolution ES-10/L.22 rejecting U.S. pres. Trump’s 12/6 recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, with 128 countries in favor, 35 abstaining, and 9 opposing, including the U.S. and Israel. After the vote, PA pres. Abbas calls it a “victory for Palestine” and a PA spokesperson thanks the countries that favored the measure, “despite all the pressure exerted on them.” U.S. ambassador to the UN Haley formally invites the representatives of all the countries that voted “no” or abstained to a reception on 1/3 “to thank you for your friendship to the U.S.” (AP, HA, MNA, NYT, REU, TOI, WAFA, YA 12/21; TOI 12/22)

Hundreds of Israeli settlers visit Joseph’s Tomb near Nablus late at night, sparking clashes between their IDF escort and Palestinians from nearby Balata refugee camp; 3 Palestinians are injured. IDF troops also arrest 8 Palestinians during late-night raids in and around Ramallah, Jenin, Hebron, and Bethlehem; and patrol near Qalqilya, Salfit, and Hebron. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 5 Palestinians during raids in al-Ram, Silwan, Wadi al-Juz, and al-Suwana. A Palestinian demolishes his own home in Silwan to avoid paying Israeli demolition fees. Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops violently disperse Palestinians protesting U.S. pres. Trump’s 12/6 recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital near Jabaliya refugee camp; there are no serious injuries. Israeli forces also conduct limited incursions along the border to level land near Dayr al-Balah and Khan Yunis, and open fire on agricultural lands near Bayt Hanun, causing no damage. (MNA 12/19; MNA, WAFA 12/20; PCHR 12/21)

The Egyptian authorities open the Rafah border crossing for the 4th and final day in a row, allowing passage in both directions. (WAFA 12/19; PCHR 1/4)

For the first time since U.S. pres. Trump’s 12/6 recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, there are no major Palestinian demonstrations in the oPt. In the West Bank, the IDF shoots and injures 2 Palestinians, arrests 14, and issues arrest summons to 1 during late-night raids in and around Bethlehem, Tulkarm, Qalqilya, Jenin, Nablus, and Ramallah; and patrols near Hebron and Nablus. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 8 Palestinians during raids in Anata refugee camp, Issawiyya, and Silwan. Along Gaza’s border, Israeli forces conduct a limited incursion to level land near Rafah and open fire on Palestinian agricultural areas near Bayt Hanun, causing no damage. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Gaza City, causing no damage or injuries. (MNA 12/18; PCHR 12/21)

The UNSC votes on a resolution that Egyptian diplomats circulated on 12/16. The resolution states that any decisions about Jerusalem’s status have no legitimacy under international law. Every member votes in favor, except the U.S., which exercises its veto. U.S. ambassador to the UN Nikki Haley calls the resolution an “insult” that won’t be forgotten. Israeli PM Netanyahu thanks Haley on Twitter: “You lit a candle of truth. You dispel the darkness. One defeated the many.” (AP, HA, NYT, REU, TOI, WAFA, YA 12/18; HA, TOI, YA 12/19)

The Egyptian authorities open the Rafah border crossing for the 3d of 4 planned days, allowing passage in both directions. (WAFA 12/18)

For an 11th consecutive day, Palestinians across Israel and the oPt gather to protest U.S. pres. Trump’s 12/6 recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital. Israeli forces violently disperse them in Tulkarm, al-‘Arub refugee camp near Hebron, and along Gaza’s border near Jabaliya refugee camp and Gaza City; 5 Palestinians are injured. Meanwhile, Israeli forces raze 500 dunams (approximately 123 acres) of Palestinian land near Nablus and cut down dozens of Palestinian trees near Hebron. Israeli border police arrest a Palestinian carrying pipe bombs into an Israeli military court near Nablus. IDF troops arrest 11 Palestinians during late-night raids in and around Hebron, Ramallah, Qalqilya, and Bethlehem; and patrol near Tulkarm and Hebron. In East Jerusalem, Israeli settlers tour Haram al-Sharif in the morning. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Dayr al-Balah and Jabaliya refugee camp, causing no damage or injuries. (HA, TOI, WAFA, YA 12/17; PCHR 12/21)

Unidentified parties fire 2 rockets into Israel; 1 lands in an open area and the other explodes in the yard of a home near Ashqelon, causing minor damage. The IAF conducts air strikes on 6 Hamas sites in northern Gaza, causing damage and no injuries. (HA, WAFA, YA 12/18)

The Egyptian authorities open the Rafah border crossing for the 2d of 4 planned days, allowing passage in both directions. (WAFA 12/17)

Israel’s Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories reopens the Kerem Shalom crossing. The Israeli authorities closed it and the Erez border crossing on 12/13. (TOI 12/17)

For a 9th day in a row, Palestinians across the oPt gather to protest U.S. pres. Trump’s 12/6 recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital. Attendance spikes today, as the protests coincide with weekly Friday protests against Israel’s occupation, separation wall, and settlements. Israeli forces violently disperse demonstrations across East Jerusalem, Halhul village near Hebron, 2 areas near Ramallah (outside the Beit El settlement and in Nabi Salih), Kafr Qaddum near Qalqilya, Bethlehem, Tubas, Tulkarm, Huwwara checkpoint near Nablus, and along Gaza’s border near Bayt Hanun, Khan Yunis, Jabaliya refugee camp, al-Bureij refugee camp, and Gaza City; 4 Palestinians are killed and approximately 150 are injured. (A video showing a 16-year-old Palestinian girl, Ahed Tamimi, shoving and slapping an Israeli soldier amid clashes in Nabi Salih near Ramallah, will go viral over the weekend. She will be arrested on 12/19). Israeli forces arrest 8 Palestinians and issue arrest summons to 2 during raids near Bethlehem and in East Jerusalem, and patrol near Tulkarm and Hebron. Separately, Palestinians throw stones at Israeli vehicles near Jerusalem, injuring 1 settler. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Jabaliya refugee camp, causing no damage or injuries. (HA, IMEMC, MNA, TOI, WAFA, YA 12/15; PCHR 12/21)

The Israeli authorities announce that the Erez border crossing has reopened for Palestinians to enter and exit, but that the Kerem Shalom crossing is to remain closed indefinitely. Both were closed on 12/13. (TOI 12/15)

For an 8th day in a row, Palestinians across the oPt gather to protest U.S. pres. Trump’s 12/6 recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital. Israeli forces violently disperse them in and around Nablus, Jenin, Tulkarm, the Old City of Jerusalem, and along Gaza’s border near Jabaliya refugee camp and Bayt Hanun. At least 36 Palestinians are injured. Meanwhile, IDF troops patrol near Hebron during the day. Approximately 233 Israeli settlers tour Haram al-Sharif in the morning, marking the start of Hanukkah. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Bayt Lahiya, causing no damage or injuries. (MNA, WAFA 12/14; PCHR 12/21)

Approximately 100,000 Palestinians gather in Gaza City at a rally marking the 30th anniversary of the founding of Hamas. Top party officials address the crowd and pledge to continue protests against U.S. pres. Trump’s 12/6 recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital. (AP, TOI, YA 12/14)

A spokesperson for the Israeli Knesset announces that U.S. VP Pence’s trip to Israel, which was set for 12/17–19, has been postponed amid the growing unrest across the Middle East over U.S. pres. Trump’s 12/6 recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital. “[The Americans] told us it was because of the votes on tax reform in Congress,” he says. (HA, TOI, YA 12/14)

For a 7th day in a row, Palestinians across the oPt gather to protest U.S. pres. Trump’s 12/6 recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital (attendance continues to steadily decline). Israeli forces violently disperse protestors in Hebron and 3 nearby villages (Dura, Bayt Umar, and Halhul), outside the Beit El settlement near Ramallah, Bethlehem, Tulkarm, Qalqilya, and along Gaza’s border near al-Bureij refugee camp, Bayt Hanun, Khan Yunis, and Rafah; at least 26 Palestinians are injured, including 1 journalist, and 5 are arrested. Meanwhile, IDF troops violently detain 2 Palestinian youths inside an ambulance in Halhul; arrest 3 Palestinians during late-night raids in Hebron and near Ramallah; and patrol in and around Hebron, Tulkarm, and Qalqilya. Israeli settlers throw stones at Palestinian students outside a school in Burin village near Nablus, sparking minor clashes; there are no serious injuries. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 2 Palestinians during late-night raids in Issawiyya and Abu Dis. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Jabaliya refugee camp, causing no damage or injuries. (HA, MNA, WAFA, YA 12/13; MNA, PCHR 12/14)

Unidentified parties fire 3 rockets from Gaza toward Israel in the evening; 2 are intercepted by the Iron Dome missile defense system and 1 falls in an open area, causing no damage or injuries. The IAF conducts air strikes on at least 5 Hamas sites across Gaza, causing damage but no injuries. The Israeli authorities announce that both the Erez and Kerem Shalom border crossings will be closed indefinitely as collective punishment for the week of rocket attacks emanating from Gaza. (HA, TOI 12/13; HA, PCHR, WAFA, YA 12/14; PCHR 12/21)

At an emergency meeting of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in Istanbul, reps. of the 57 OIC members jointly declare East Jerusalem to be the capital of the State of Palestine and urge all countries to recognize Palestine. Addressing the attendees, PA pres. Abbas says that Israel’s violations and of international law free the Palestinians from prior commitments made in context of the peace process, threatens to abandon the PA’s security coordination with the IDF, and announces the Palestinians’ intention to go to the UNSC for full UN membership. (AFP, HA, NYT, REU, TOI, WAFA, YA 12/13)

Two PIJ engineers are killed and tens of bystanders are injured in an explosion in Umm al-Nasr village near Bayt Lahiya in northern Gaza. PIJ initially accuses Israel of targeting the engineers with a drone strike. An IDF spokesperson denies any Israeli involvement, and PIJ later says that the explosion was an accident and that the 2 men mishandled explosives. Separately, unidentified parties fire 2 rockets from Gaza toward Israel late at night; 1 falls short of the border and the other lands in an open area in southern Israel, causing no damage or injuries. The IAF conducts air strikes on 2 Hamas military sites, injuring 3 Palestinians and causing major damage. (HA, MNA, TOI, WAFA 12/12; HA, MNA, WAFA 12/13)

For a 6th day in a row, Palestinians across the oPt and Israel gather to protest U.S. pres. Trump’s 12/6 recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital (protests have steadily declined in size since 12/8). IDF troops violently disperse them in Tulkarm, Bethlehem and nearby al-‘Arub refugee camp, and along Gaza’s border near Gaza City, Khan Yunis, and Rafah; 14 Palestinians are injured. Meanwhile, an elderly Palestinian woman suffers a fatal heart attack late at night when Israeli soldiers raid her home near Jericho. They also shoot and seriously injure a Palestinian they claim was attempting to stab Israeli soldiers outside the Ariel settlement. An IDF spokesperson later states that the Palestinian was not carrying a knife, but was among a group that was “suspected of an attempt to attack on the border.” Meanwhile, IDF troops arrest a Palestinian youth in central Hebron, allegedly after he is found to be carrying a knife; arrest 34 Palestinians during late-night raids in and around Ramallah, Hebron, Nablus, Tubas, Jenin, and Tulkarm; and patrol near Tulkarm, Salfit, and Nablus. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 19 Palestinians during late-night raids in Issawiyya and Silwan. Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops open fire on Palestinian agricultural areas near Bayt Hanun, causing no damage. (HA, MNA, TOI, WAFA 12/12; MNA, WAFA 12/13; PCHR 12/14)

For a 5th day in a row, Palestinians across the oPt gather to protest U.S. pres. Trump’s 12/6 recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital. Israeli troops violently disperse them in Tulkarm, Ramallah, Hebron, Jericho, and along Gaza’s border near Bayt Hanun, Jabaliya refugee camp, Gaza City, Rafah, Khan Yunis, and al-Bureij refugee camp; at least 45 Palestinians are injured and 3 are arrested. Meanwhile, the IDF uses cement blocks to seal the main road connecting Ramallah and Jalazun refugee camp; arrests 16 Palestinians during raids in and around Nablus, Hebron, Qalqilya, Bethlehem, Tulkarm; and patrols near Tulkarm and Tubas. Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops open fire on Palestinian land and other property near Khan Yunis, causing no damage. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 3 Palestinian youths on the way home from school in Ras al-Amud and 4 during raids in Shu‘fat refugee camp and Silwan. (MNA, TOI, WAFA 12/11; HA 12/12; PCHR 12/14)

Unidentified parties launch a rocket from Gaza into southern Israel. It lands in an open area, causing no damage or injuries. The IAF conducts air strikes on 2 Hamas positions in southern Gaza. Later, unidentified parties fire another rocket from Gaza, into Israel near Ashqelon. It is intercepted by Israel’s Iron Dome missile defense system. Late at night the IDF shells Hamas sites in northern Gaza, causing minor damage. (HA, YA 12/11; HA, TOI 12/12; PCHR 12/14)

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)

For a 3d day in a row, thousands of Palestinians gather at protests across the oPt and Israel against U.S. pres. Trump’s 12/6 recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital and in commemoration of the 30th anniversary of the First Intifada. Israeli forces violently disperse them in East Jerusalem, Ramallah, Hebron, Huwwara near Nablus, Aida refugee camp and nearby Bethlehem, Tulkarm, and along Gaza’s border near Khan Yunis, Rafah, Gaza City, and Jabaliya refugee camp; at least 31 Palestinians are injured and at least 17 are arrested. Meanwhile, IDF troops arrest 1 Palestinian during a late-night raid near Hebron. Israeli settlers damage approximately 20 olive trees on Palestinian land near Nablus. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Jabaliya refugee camp and twice near Bayt Lahiya, causing no damage or injuries. Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops open fire on Palestinian agricultural areas near Bayt Hanun, causing no major damage. (HA, MNA, WAFA 12/9; PCHR 12/14)

Czech pres. Zeman accuses the EU of a pro-Palestinian bias. “The cowardly EU does everything so that the pro-Palestinian terror movement is dominant in relation to the pro-Israeli movement that I represent,” he says. (DPA, TOI 12/9; HA 12/10)

For a 2d 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 al-Bireh, Hebron, Qalqilya, Bethlehem, Ramallah and nearby Nabi Salih, Nablus, Tulkarm, across East Jerusalem (Issawiyya, al-Tur, and the Old City), and along Gaza’s border near Khan Yunis, Jabaliya refugee camp, al-Bureij refugee camp, Rafah, and Gaza City; 2 Palestinians are killed, approximately 100 are injured (including 4 journalists), and at least 20 are arrested. Meanwhile, IDF troops shoot, injure, and arrest a Palestinian at the entrance to al-Bireh near Ramallah. Israeli soldiers also arrest 1 Palestinian, assault a 2d, and issue an arrest summons to a 3d during a late-night raid near Hebron; and patrol near Hebron throughout the day. In 3 separate incidents off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Jabaliya refugee camp and Bayt Lahiya, causing no damage or injuries. (AP, HA, NYT, TOI, WAFA 12/8; EI, MNA, TOI, WAFA 12/9; PCHR 12/14)

Unidentified parties fire 3 rockets from Gaza toward Israel: 1 falls short of the border fence; 1 is intercepted by the Iron Dome missile defense system; and 1 lands in Sderot, damaging a number of cars. The IAF launches air strikes on 4 Hamas and PIJ sites in Khan Yunis, southern Gaza City, and Jabaliya refugee camp, killing 2 Hamas fighters and injuring at least 20 Palestinians, including a 6-month-old child. (EI, HA, MNA, REU, TOI, WAFA 12/9)

PLO secy.-gen. Saeb Erakat says that the Palestinians have decided not to engage in any talks with the U.S. until Pres. Trump reverses his 12/6 recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital. He also says that they are still evaluating what other steps to take in response. (AJ, TOI 12/8)

The UNSC convenes a special session to discuss Trump’s 12/6 recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital. UNSC members England, France, Italy, Bolivia, Uruguay, Senegal, China, Ethiopia, Kazakhstan, and Russia jointly reject the new U.S. policy on Jerusalem. Later, PA pres. Abbas welcomes “the international consensus condemning Trump’s announcement, as was apparent at the [UNSC] session this evening.” (HA, WAFA 12/8)

The Czech Foreign Ministry denies rumors that Pres. Zeman intends to move the Czech embassy to Jerusalem and reaffirms Czech commitment to European Union (EU) policy regarding the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, including the issue of Jerusalem. Later, EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini confirms that the Czech Republic intends to conform to the EU’s position on Jerusalem. (HA, WAFA 12/8)

Thousands of Palestinians gather across the oPt to protest U.S. pres. Trump’s 12/6 recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital. The IDF deploys additional battalions in the West Bank to quell the protests, and Israeli forces violently disperse them in Tulkarm, Bethlehem, Nablus, Jenin, Shu‘fat refugee camp, at a checkpoint near Ramallah, in the Old City of Jerusalem, and along Gaza’s border near Khan Yunis and al-Bureij refugee camp; at least 30 Palestinians are injured, including 9 with live ammunition, and 16 are arrested. Palestinians also observe a general strike throughout most of the oPt. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Jabaliya refugee camp, causing no damage or injuries. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 14 Palestinians during raids in Issawiyya, Ras al-Amud, and Wadi al-Juz. (HA, MNA, NYT, REU, TOI, WAFA 12/7; PCHR 12/14)

Unidentified parties fire 3 rockets from Gaza toward Israel; 2 fall short of the border, and 1 lands in an open area in southern Israel, causing no damage or injuries. The IDF targets 2 Hamas positions in Gaza with artillery shelling and air strikes. (HA, MNA, WAFA 12/7)

In response to U.S. pres. Trump’s 12/6 recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, the Palestinian delegation at the UN files a formal complaint, requesting that the UN Security Council (UNSC) work toward reversing Trump’s decision. Senior PA official Jibril Rajoub says that U.S. VP Mike Pence, who is set to visit Israel and the oPt later this month, is “unwelcome in Palestine.” He says the Palestinians “will not welcome Trump’s deputy in the [oPt].” The response from the international community is near-universal condemnation, with few exceptions. Israeli PM Netanyahu says that some countries have reached out to discuss similar recognitions of Jerusalem. “I have no doubt than when the U.S. embassy will move there, and even before that, many embassies will relocate to Jerusalem,” he adds. Czech Republic pres. Miloš Zeman says Trump’s announcement made him “truly happy.”(HA, REU, TOI, WAFA 12/7; HA 12/8)

A Palestinian child succumbs to injuries sustained on 8/8/2014 during Israel’s summer 2014 assault on Gaza. Four members of the boy’s family were killed that day when an Israeli air strike targeted his family home. Meanwhile, thousands of Palestinians march through Gaza City in protest of U.S. pres. Trump’s reported decision to move the U.S. embassy in Israel to Jerusalem. IDF troops violently disperse dozens of Palestinians protesting along the border near Khan Yunis (there are no serious injuries). In the West Bank, the IDF temporarily closes the entrance to nearby Ya‘bad village after reports of shots fired at an Israeli settler bus near Jenin. IDF troops clash with stonethrowing Palestinians in al-‘Arub refugee camp near Hebron; there are no serious injuries. They also arrest 27 Palestinians during late-night raids near Nablus, Jenin, and Bethlehem; and patrol near Hebron and Bethlehem. In the Negev, Israeli forces demolish the Palestinian Bedouin village al-Araqib for the 122d time since 2010. (MNA, WAFA 12/6; PCHR 12/7; PCHR 12/14)

In a speech broadcast from the White House, U.S. pres. Trump announces that the U.S. recognizes Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and that his administration will begin the process of moving the U.S. embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. “I have judged this to be in the best interest in the pursuit of peace between Israel and the Palestinians,” he says. PA pres. Abbas says that the U.S. can no longer serve as mediator between the Israelis and Palestinians. Israeli PM Netanyahu welcomes the announcement, celebrating the “historic day.” (AP, BBC, EI, HA, MNA, YA 12/6; HA, WAFA 12/7)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers set up a mobile home on Palestinian land east of Nablus. IDF troops arrest 6 Palestinians during late-night raids in and around Hebron, Tubas, and Bethlehem; and patrol near Hebron. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces demolish the foundation of a building under construction in Shu‘fat refugee camp. They also arrest 3 Palestinians during raids in Bayt Hanina and al-Tur. (WAFA 12/5; PCHR 12/7)

After days of speculation and rumors, U.S. pres. Trump calls PA pres. Abbas to tell him that he plans to move the U.S. embassy in Israel to Jerusalem and to invite the Palestinian leader for a meeting at the White House before the end of the month. According to a PA spokesperson, Abbas warns Trump of the “dangerous repercussions.” Trump also calls Israeli PM Netanyahu, Saudi king Salman bin Abdulaziz, Jordanian king Abdullah, Russian pres. Vladimir Putin, and Egyptian pres. Abdel Fattah al-Sisi to inform them of his decision. (AP, HA, MNA, NYT, REU, TOI, WAFA 12/5)

In response to Pres. Trump’s plan to recognize Jerusalem as Israel’s capital and to move the U.S. embassy there, several Palestinian factions and Islamist groups jointly declare 3 “days of rage” to begin on 12/6. Later, the U.S. Consulate General in Jerusalem issues a travel warning calling on U.S. citizens to avoid the West Bank and the Old City of Jerusalem. (HA, TOI 12/5)

Lebanese PM Saad Hariri formally rescinds his resignation, which threw Lebanon and much of the Middle East into turmoil when he announced it on Saudi television on 11/4 (see JPS 47 [2]). (AA, REU, TOI 12/5)

Near Jenin in the West Bank, Israeli forces carry out the punitive demolition of the home of a Palestinian imprisoned in connection with the killing of an Israeli settler on 10/4/2017. Meanwhile, IDF troops violently disperse Palestinians, Israelis, and international activists at Friday protests against the 11/30 killing of a Palestinian farmer and Israel’s occupation, settlements, and separation wall in 3 villages near Ramallah (Nabi Salih, Bil‘in, and Ni‘lin), Kafr Qaddum near Qalqilya, Khirbat Qalqas near Hebron, and Qusra near Nablus; 1 Palestinian is injured. They also arrest 1 Palestinian and issue arrest summons for 2 more during raids in and around Bethlehem and Jenin. Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops open fire on Palestinian farmers working near al-Maghazi refugee camp and on agricultural lands near Bayt Lahiya, causing no injuries. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Jabaliya refugee camp and Bayt Lahiya, causing no damage or injuries. (MNA, TOI, WAFA 12/1; PCHR 12/7)

The Israeli Air Force (IAF) launches an air strike at a military base outside Damascus, Syria. According to Syrian press sources, the target was an Iranian military base 13 km south of the city. The extent of the damage is not reported. (HA, TOI 12/2)

Israeli settlers shoot and kill a Palestinian farmer outside Qusra village near Nablus. The Palestinian press reports that they killed the man when he tried to stop them from entering his fields. According to the Israeli press, the settlers were hiking in the area when a group of Palestinian youths surrounded them and threw stones at them, provoking the shooting. Following the incident, minor clashes break out between Palestinian youths and IDF troops; 2 Israeli soldiers are lightly injured. Also, settlers throw stones at Palestinians and their property in Qusra and nearby Asira village; 10 Palestinians and 1 Israeli soldier are injured in the ensuing clashes. Meanwhile, Israeli forces arrest 10 Palestinian farmers after they refused an evacuation order of their lands near Hebron. The IDF issues arrest summons for 2 Palestinians during raids near Bethlehem, and patrols near Hebron, Tulkarm, and Qalqilya. In East Jerusalem, Israeli settlers assault a Palestinian and her daughter in the Old City, causing light injuries to both. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Bayt Lahiya and later near Jabaliya refugee camp, causing no damage or injuries. Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops open fire on Palestinian agricultural lands near Gaza City on 2 separate occasions, causing no damage or injuries. (HA, MNA, TOI, WAFA 11/30; PCHR 12/7)

Unidentified persons in Gaza fire several mortar shells at IDF troops patrolling along Gaza’s northern border, causing no injuries. The IDF launches strikes on Hamas and Islamic Jihad in Palestine (PIJ) positions in Bayt Hanun, Gaza City, and Rafah (3 Palestinians are injured). The IDF later says that PIJ was responsible for the mortars, and that the attack was likely retaliation for the Israeli demolition of a PIJ tunnel on 10/30 (see JPS 47 [2]). (HA, MNA, TOI 11/30; PCHR 12/7)

Unidentified persons stab to death an IDF soldier at a bus station in Arad, southern Israel (on 12/4, the Shin Bet will announce the arrest of 2 Bedouin Palestinians in connection with the stabbing). (HA, TOI 12/4)

IDF troops shoot and seriously injure a Palestinian youth, allegedly after he drives his car into Israeli civilians, first at the Efrat junction, and later at the Gush Etzion junction near Bethlehem, injuring 2. After the first collision, the Palestinian drove on to Gush Etzion, where he hit and moderately injured the 2d Israeli. He was shot when he exited his vehicle. Meanwhile, 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) and Kafr Qaddum near Qalqilya; no Palestinians are seriously injured. Two Palestinians are injured during clashes with IDF troops in ‘Azun village near Qalqilya, and the IDF patrols near Salfit and Qalqilya. Israeli settlers throw stones at Palestinian farmers working their lands outside Burin village; 1 Palestinian is injured. Settlers also throw stones at Palestinian homes and pepper-spray 2 Palestinian children east of Hebron and burn a small swath of Palestinian land near Nablus. (HA, MNA, TOI, WAFA, YA 11/17; PCHR 11/23)

The Associated Press reports that the U.S. State Dept. recently notified the Palestinians that the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) diplomatic office in Washington could be forcibly closed unless they enter peace negotiations with Israel (see Update). Secy. of State Rex Tillerson reportedly told the Palestinians that the decision stemmed from Palestinian Authority (PA) pres. Mahmoud Abbas’s expressions of support for the International Criminal Court investigating and prosecuting Israelis in his 9/20 speech to the UN General Assembly (UNGA). (AP, HA, TOI 11/17)

Israeli forces punitively seal the entrances to Dayr Nizam village near Ramallah following repeated incidents of Palestinian youths throwing stones at Israeli settler vehicles in the area. Elsewhere in the West Bank, Israeli forces demolish a water pipeline serving Palestinian communities near Tubas. IDF troops arrest 13 Palestinians during late-night raids near Tulkarm, Hebron, Jenin, and Ramallah; arrest 3 Palestinian youths accused of stone-throwing in central Hebron, and patrol in and around Hebron and Tulkarm. Meanwhile, Israeli settlers throw stones at Palestinian vehicles driving outside Huwwara near Nablus, injuring 2 Palestinians. Settlers also attack Palestinian farmers working in the area, causing no damage or injuries. In East Jerusalem, a Palestinian demolishes his own shop in Silwan to avoid paying Israeli demolition fees. Israeli forces arrest 6 Palestinians during raids in Silwan and Anata refugee camp. Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops open fire on Palestinian agricultural lands near Khan Yunis, causing no damage or injuries. (MNA, WAFA 11/13; MNA 11/14; PCHR 11/16)

Following weeks of tension in the wake of the 10/30 tunnel demolition (see Update), the IDF raises its alert level across Israel, triggering several precautionary measures in case PIJ retaliates. The Egyptian government is reportedly pressuring PIJ not to escalate the situation. (HA 11/13; YA 11/14)