The Palestine Chronology

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)

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)

In the West Bank, thousands of Palestinian mourners march through Qusra in a funeral procession for the Palestinian shot by a settler 11/30. IDF troops arrest 4 Palestinians, issue 1 arrest summons, and confiscate 2 cars during late-night raids in and around Qalqilya, Ramallah, and Hebron; and patrol near Hebron. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 2 Palestinians during raids in Abu Dis and Silwan. Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops open fire on Palestinian farmers working near al-Maghazi refugee camp, al-Qarara, and Juhur al-Dik, causing no damage or injuries. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Bayt Lahiya, causing no damage or injuries. (MNA, WAFA 12/2; PCHR 12/7)

Following days of unconfirmed reports and rumors from the White House, PA pres. Abbas calls upon the leaders of 8 Arab states to pressure U.S. pres. Trump into delaying or cancelling his proposed move of the U.S. embassy in Israel to Jerusalem. According to a PA spokesperson, Abbas “warned categorically that taking such a step would lead to the destruction of the peace process” and create an “uncontrollable situation” in the region. (TOI 12/2)

In the West Bank, IDF troops arrest 19 Palestinians and issue 2 arrest summons during late-night raids in and around Nablus, Bethlehem, Tulkarm, Hebron, Ramallah, and Tubas; and patrol near Nablus. Israeli settlers throw stones at and physically assault Palestinian farmers working outside Yatta village near Hebron, sparking clashes between the Palestinians and IDF troops in the area; there are no serious injuries. The IDF then declares the area a closed military zone and arrests 6 Palestinians. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 4 Palestinians during raids in Silwan, al-Tur, and Issawiyya. (PCHR 11/30; PCHR 12/7)

After a cabinet meeting in Ramallah, the PA calls on all of its former civil servants in Gaza (who stopped working when Hamas took power in 6/2007), to return to their posts, thereby jeopardizing the future of tens of thousands of employees of the Hamas-run government. The PA had agreed to pay the current employees of the Hamas-run government through 2/2018. In a statement, the cabinet stresses that “the empowerment of the government in the Gaza Strip [. . .] is a necessary first step and the cornerstone for moving to resolve the rest of the issues.” Hamas, which has called for the issue to be resolved in a way that preserves the rights of its government’s employees, criticizes the announcement as a “violation” of past agreements. (AFP, MNA, TOI, WAFA 11/28)

Approximately 1,000 Israeli settlers visit Joseph’s Tomb near Nablus overnight, sparking clashes between their IDF escort and stone-throwing Palestinians from nearby Balata refugee camp; 1 Palestinian is injured. Elsewhere in the West Bank, Palestinians steal and torch the car of 3 Israeli settlers in central Nablus, prompting the IDF to escort the settlers out of the city. IDF troops also arrest 4 Palestinians during late-night raids in and around Bethlehem, Ramallah, and Hebron; and patrol near Hebron and Salfit. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Bayt Lahiya, causing no damage or injuries. (IMEMC, TOI, WAFA 11/21; PCHR 11/23)

Representatives of Hamas, Fatah, and 11 other Palestinian factions meet in Cairo for the 1st of 2 planned days of reconciliation talks. (TOI, WAFA 11/21)

PA FM al-Maliki says that the Trump administration is reconsidering its threat, 1st reported on 11/17, to shutter the PLO office in Washington, following the Palestinians’ refusal to comply with their demands. He says that in the meantime, the Palestinians have decided to freeze contacts with the U.S. “In practice, by closing the office they are freezing all meetings and we are making that official.” A State Dept. spokesperson responds, “In our view, communications are not frozen.” She says that Trump administration officials are in contact with Palestinian officials “about the status of that PLO office in Washington, as well as having conversations with them about our larger efforts on the part of a lasting and comprehensive peace process.” (HA, TOI 11/21)

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)

IDF troops open fire on 2 Palestinian siblings outside Halamish settlement near Ramallah, killing 1 and injuring the other. The IDF claims the victims were operating their car in a “suspicious” manner and that they looked like they were planning a ramming attack. The PA Foreign Ministry condemns the shooting as an “extrajudicial execution.” Elsewhere in the West Bank, Israeli forces demolish a stone-cutting workshop near Jenin. IDF troops arrest 12 Palestinians during late-night raids in and around Hebron, Tulkarm, Jenin, and Nablus, and patrol near Qalqilya, Tulkarm, and Hebron. Hundreds of Israeli settlers visit Joseph’s Tomb late at night, sparking clashes between their IDF escort and Palestinians from nearby Balata refugee camp; 2 Palestinians are injured. (HA, MNA, TOI, WAFA 10/31; EI, MNA, WAFA 11/1; PCHR 11/2)

In the West Bank, Palestinian farmers discover that Israeli settlers have stolen the pickings from at least 450 of their olive trees in orchards east of Qalqilya. Israeli forces bulldoze 200 m of walls around a Palestinian’s agricultural land near Nablus, and patrol near Hebron. Late at night, IDF troops raid 8 branch offices of 3 Palestinian media companies— PalMedia, Ram Sat, and Trans Media—in Nablus, Bethlehem, Ramallah, and Hebron. They confiscate what they claim are inciting materials and arrest at least 2 Palestinians. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces demolish 2 homes in Silwan, displacing 9 Palestinians. Off Gaza, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Bayt Lahiya and Khan Yunis, causing no damage or injuries. (MNA, WAFA 10/17; EI, HA, YA 10/18; PCHR 10/19)

Israeli PM Netanyahu’s office announces that the security cabinet has decided to set a series of conditions concerning the 10/12 Palestinian national reconciliation agreement for the Palestinians to meet before the Israeli government would consent to any “political” talks with a new Palestinian consensus government. They include Hamas recognizing Israel, ceasing all so-called terrorist activity, disarming fighters, dismantling its military infrastructure and bureaucracy in the West Bank, severing ties with Iran, returning to Israel the remains of the 2 IDF soldiers and the Israeli civilians allegedly being held in Gaza, and relinquishing security control of Gaza to the PA. A senior Israeli official says that the cabinet also authorized PM Netanyahu to impose punitive sanctions on the PA, including deductions from the monthly transfers of tax revenues Israel collects on the Palestinians’ behalf. Shortly after the statement is released, PA pres. Abbas’s spokesperson says that the Israeli government will not be allowed to stand in the way of Palestinian reconciliation. (HA, YA 10/17)

The Higher Planning Commission of Israel’s Civil Administration advances plans for 1,292 new housing units in West Bank settlements, including the approval of 296 homes for sale in Beit El (PM Netanyahu has promised to make these homes available to the residents of the illegal Ulpana outpost, which was evacuated in 2012). The committee is expected to advance more plans on 10/18. (TOI 19/17)

In the West Bank, IDF troops close down a road near Bethlehem, blocking Palestinian farmers in the area from working their fields. They also arrest 1 Palestinian during late-night raids near Jenin and patrol near Hebron. Late at night,Israeli settlers throw stones at Palestinian cars near Ramallah, causing minor damage and seriously injuring 1 child. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Bayt Lahiya, causing no damage or injuries. (WAFA 10/5; MNA, WAFA 10/6; PCHR 10/12)

Israeli DM Lieberman and IDF chief of staff Gadi Eisenkot decide to permit the entrance into Israel of West Bank Palestinians “employed in required sectors of the economy.” Lieberman previously ordered, on 10/1, an 11-day closure of the West Bank and Gaza for the holiday (10/4–15). (HA, TOI 10/6)

PA PM Hamdallah returns to Ramallah from Gaza, where he spent 4 days meeting with various local officials and working to bring PA administration to the region. Further details of the ongoing reconciliation process are expected to be disclosed on 10/10, when Hamas and Fatah officials meet in Cairo for more talks. Meanwhile, Hamas announces that the PA has officially taken over as the administrative authority in Gaza. A spokesperson says that Hamas has been “supporting the consensus government.” (TOI, WAFA, YA 10/5)

In the West Bank, the IDF continues its crackdown on Bayt Surik, the Jerusalem-area hometown of the alleged perpetrator of the deadly 9/26 attack in Har Hadar. Israeli soldiers confiscate dozens of cars, conduct raids, and issue stop-work orders to various sites of unpermitted construction in the village. They also maintain the closure of 8 other Jerusalem-area villages for a 3d day. Elsewhere, IDF troops patrol in al-Thaher near Hebron and Ya‘bad village near Jenin, sparking clashes with stone-throwing Palestinians in both places; there are no serious injuries and 4 Palestinians are arrested. They also arrest 19 Palestinians during late-night raids near Hebron, Ramallah, Bethlehem, and Jenin, and patrol near Qalqilya and Jenin. (TOI 9/28; PCHR 10/5)

The IDF announces that the border crossings in and out of the West Bank and Gaza will be closed from midnight on 9/29 until midnight on 9/30, as Israel marks Yom Kippur. In an unusual addendum to the closure, the IDF says that Palestinian workers will be barred from entering Israel’s settlements in the West Bank on 9/30. The additional restriction is likely a response to the deadly attack on 9/26. (TOI 9/28)

The Middle East Quartet meets and releases a statement welcoming the Palestinian national reconciliation efforts: “[The Quartet members] urge the parties to take concrete steps to reunite Gaza and the West Bank under the legitimate Palestinian Authority. This will facilitate lifting the closures of the crossings, while addressing Israel’s legitimate security concerns, and unlock international support for Gaza’s growth, stability, and prosperity, which is critical for efforts to reach lasting peace.” (TOI, WAFA 9/28)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces issue stopwork orders to Palestinians building a road between agricultural areas near Bethlehem. IDF troops arrest 11 Palestinians and issue 1 arrest summons during raids in and around Hebron, Ramallah, Bethlehem, and Qalqilya, and patrol near Hebron. The raids in Qalqilya spark clashes with stone-throwing Palestinians; 1 Palestinian is injured. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 4 Palestinians during raids in Jabal Mukabir, Wadi al-Juz, and Shu‘fat refugee camp. Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops arrest 2 Palestinians attempting to cross into Israel, and open fire on Palestinian agricultural lands near Khan Yunis. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Bayt Lahiya, causing no damage or injuries. (MNA, TOI 9/16; MNA 9/17; PCHR 9/21)

A senior U.S. official says that the Trump administration is not expecting any breakthrough in its efforts to restart PalestinianIsraeli peace talks during the UNGA this week in New York, despite Trump’s scheduled meetings with PA pres. Abbas and Israeli PM Netanyahu. “Achieving peace between the Israelis and the Palestinians remains one of the president’s highest priorities, but the UN meetings will primarily focus on other issues and serve as check-in opportunities,” the official adds. (HA, TOI 9/16)

PA minister of education Sabri Saidam visits the Jubbet al-Dhib school that the IDF dismantled on 8/22 and 9/9 to celebrate its rebuilding and opening. Elsewhere in the West Bank, Israeli forces confiscate machinery from a Palestinian farm near Tubas. Palestinians throw stones at Israeli forces on patrol in Tulkarm and nearby Nur Shams refugee camp, sparking minor clashes; there are no serious injuries. IDF troops arrest 11 Palestinians during late-night raids in and around Hebron, Tulkarm, Jenin, and Ramallah, and patrol near Hebron. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces conduct raids in Abu Dis, sparking minor clashes with Palestinian youths; there are no serious injuries. They also arrest 5 Palestinians during raids in Silwan. Off Gaza’s coast late at night, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Jabaliya refugee camp on 2 separate occasions, causing no damage or injuries. (MNA, WAFA 9/10; PCHR 9/14)

The PA releases Youth Against Settlement founder Issa Amro on $1,400 bail. He was arrested on 9/4 for Facebook posts criticizing the PA. (AJ, MNA 9/10)

In Cairo, Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh chairs the first meeting of Hamas’s top officials since their election earlier this year (see JPS 46 [4] and 47 [1]). They discuss relations with Egypt, the possibility of reconciliation with Fatah, and their regional position. Several Hamas officials then meet with top Egyptian security officers to discuss the Rafah border crossing and other bilateral issues. (TOI 9/10; TOI 9/11)

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)

A Palestinian youth succumbs to injuries sustained in clashes with IDF troops in Dahaysha refugee camp near Bethlehem on 8/9. (MNA, TOI, WAFA 9/3; HA 9/4; PCHR 9/14)

IDF troops conduct raids in Zabbuba near Jenin, sparking minor clashes with stonethrowing Palestinians; there are no serious injuries. Further clashes break out in Dayr Abu Mash‘al near Ramallah when IDF troops conduct raids in the village; 1 Israeli soldier is injured. IDF troops also disperse Palestinians protesting the occupation in central Hebron; 1 Palestinian is arrested. The IDF arrests 2 Palestinians during raids near Jenin and Bethlehem, and patrols near Hebron and Qalqilya throughout the day. Meanwhile, PA security forces (PASF) arrest the director of al-Hurriya Media Company, which IDF troops shut down due to “incitement” on 8/31. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 1 Palestinian and issue 1 arrest summons during raids in Silwan and Bayt ‘Aynun. (MNA, WAFA 9/3; PCHR 9/14)

The Israeli cabinet approves a new budget for Amichai, the settlement being built to replace the illegal Amona outpost that was demolished in 2/2017 (see JPS 46 [4]). Construction began over the summer, but halted in 7/2017 because of insufficient funds. (HA, MNA, TOI 9/3)

Israeli settlers who took over the top 2 floors of the Abu Rajab house in central Hebron on 7/25 file a petition against the Israeli state prosecutor’s order for them to leave (see 8/27). The settlers claim that they purchased the building legally from a member of the Abu Rajab family who was later arrested by the PA. (MNA 9/4)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces raze Palestinian land near Hebron to make space for the expansion of a nearby settlement. The IDF arrest 1 Palestinian during a late-night raid near Bethlehem, and patrol near Hebron and Qalqilya during the day. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 4 Palestinians during raids in the Old City. Approximately 300 Israeli settlers, accompanied by several members of Knesset (MKs), establish a synagogue in Silwan, while Israeli forces cordon off the area, restricting Palestinian movement. (MNA, WAFA 8/24; PCHR 9/1)

U.S. pres. Donald Trump’s senior advisor and son-in-law Jared Kushner meets with Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu in the morning in Tel Aviv. He says that Trump is “committed to finding a solution that will bring prosperity and peace” to the region. Netanyahu’s office later says that the meeting was “effective and significant.” No further details are made public. Kushner later discusses the Trump administration’s peace efforts with Palestinian Authority (PA) pres. Mahmoud Abbas in Ramallah. He reportedly says that the Trump administration is planning to present a peace plan to the Palestinians and Israelis within 3–4 months, and asks Abbas to refrain from unilateral moves in international fora in the meantime. After the meeting, the PA releases a statement: “The PA and the U.S. delegation had a productive meeting focused on how to begin substantive Israeli-Palestinian peace talks. Both sides agreed to continue with the U.S.-led conversations as the best way to reach a comprehensive peace deal.” (HA, REU, TOI, WAFA 8/24; MNA, NYT 8/25)

Israeli forces impose an overnight curfew and punitively demolish 2 homes and seal a 3d in Dayr Abu Mash‘al nr. Ramallah. (The homes belong to the families of the Palestinians allegedly responsible for the deadly 6/16 attack in East Jerusalem.) Clashes break out despite the curfew; 3 Palestinians are injured. Meanwhile, Israeli forces also carry out the punitive demolition of a home in Silwad nr. Ramallah, which belongs to the family of the man allegedly responsible for the car ramming attack nr. Ramallah on 4/6. Elsewhere in the West Bank, IDF troops interrogate several PA employees during a raid on a govt. office in Hebron. Another IDF raid in Bayt Rima nr. Ramallah sparks clashes with Palestinian youths; 5 Palestinians are injured. IDF troops also patrol nr. Hebron and Qalqilya during the day. In East Jerusalem, Israeli police arrest 5 Palestinians in al-‘Izzariya allegedly on their way to carry out an attack on Israelis; and arrest 3 more Palestinians during late-night raids in Shu‘fat r.c. and Qatanna. Undercover Israeli police assault and arrest a number of Palestinian youths in Bayt Hanina. (HA, MNA, TOI 8/10; MNA 8/11; PCHR 8/17)

In the West Bank, IDF troops arrest 19 Palestinians and issue 1 arrest summons during late-night raids in and around Nablus, Jenin, and Qalqilya; and patrol nr. Hebron and Nablus. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 4 Palestinians during raids in Wadi al-Juz and Jabal Mukabir. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats nr. Bayt Lahiya 4 times, causing no damage or injuries. (PCHR 8/10)

Jordan’s King Abdullah meets with PA pres. Abbas in Ramallah to discuss the recent tension at Haram al-Sharif, the U.S.-led peace efforts, and regional developments. (HA, MNA, TOI, WAFA, YA 8/7)

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)

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)

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, an Israeli settler driver allegedly rams a Palestinian youth nr. Hebron, causing serious injuries. Israeli settlers and IDF troops surround a Palestinian school in Tuqu‘ village nr. Bethlehem. The soldiers arrest 2 teachers and 1 student who allegedly threw rocks at the settlers. IDF troops raid a printing shop in Ramallah, seizing $18,000 worth of equipment. They also arrest 2 Palestinians during a late-night raid nr. Ramallah, patrol during the day nr. Hebron and Qalqilya; and violently disperse Palestinian and international activists at a protest encampment outside Yatta village nr. Hebron; there are no serious injuries. The IDF injures 4 Palestinians in further clashes at a checkpoint nr. Qalqilya. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 6 Palestinians during violent raids in Issawiyya and Hizma. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats nr. Bayt Lahiya and Gaza City; there are no serious injuries or damage. (MNA 5/25; PCHR 6/1)

The Palestinian man seriously injured on 5/23 in a confrontation with Israeli forces in Netanya succumbs to his injuries. (MNA 5/25)

PA pres. Abbas meets with U.S. special rep. for international negotiations Jason Greenblatt in Ramallah to discuss the Dignity Strike. “We asked the American side to intervene in guaranteeing [our] prisoners’ rights and achieving their humane demands,” Abbas later tells the Fatah Central Comm. (JP, TOI 5/25)

Greenblatt also meets with Israeli PM Netanyahu to follow up on U.S. pres. Trump’s visit to the region on 5/22–23. The PM’s office then denies a report that the U.S. is pushing for Israel to transfer parts of Area C to Area B, increasing Palestinian control of the West Bank, as a goodwill gesture. (JP 5/26)

The IDF’s Coordinator of Govt. Activities in the Territories (COGAT) Yoav Mordechai says that the Israeli govt. will acquiesce to the PA’s 4/27 request to reduce the electricity supply to Gaza (see JPS 46 [4]). The PA, which typically pays NIS 40 m. (approx. $11.2 m.) per mo. for Israel to transfer electricity to Gaza, will reduce its monthly payments to NIS 25–30 m. (BBC, JP, MNA, TOI, YA 5/25; AP 5/31)

Hamas forces execute the 3 Palestinians convicted of crimes related to the assassination of senior Hamas cmdr. Fuqaha on 3/24 (see JPS 46 [3]). (JP, NYT 5/25; EI 5/26)

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 arrest a Palestinian at a checkpoint in Shu‘fat r.c. after he allegedly attempts to stab 1 of them, causing no injuries. In the West Bank, 3 Israeli settlers go missing in the Hebron region. The IDF then shuts down checkpoints and conducts raids across the region, including in al-‘Arub r.c. nr. Hebron, where they spark minor clashes; 2 Palestinians are injured. Meanwhile, further IDF raids nr. Qalqilya spark clashes with stone-throwing Palestinians; there are no serious injuries. The IDF arrests 8 Palestinians during late-night raids nr. Tulkarm, Ramallah, Hebron, Nablus, and Bethlehem; and patrols nr. Nablus and Hebron throughout the day. An Israeli settler driver rams a Palestinian child in Yatta village nr. Hebron, moderately injuring him. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats nr. Gaza City, causing no injuries or damage. In Gaza, Hamas forces arrest several local Fatah leaders across the region and issue arrest summons to a number of others. The arrests come hours ahead of a Fatah-planned march in solidarity with the 1,500-some Palestinians on hunger strike. (MNA, TOI, WAFA 5/3; PCHR 5/4; PCHR 5/11)

PA pres. Abbas meets with U.S. pres. Trump at the White House in Washington. They commit to a new Israeli-Palestinian peace effort, and Abbas reaffirms the Palestinian preference for a 2-state solution based on the pre-1967 armistice lines. Trump says he is ready to do “whatever is necessary” to achieve peace, but that the U.S. can only serve as “mediator, arbitrator, and facilitator” because any agreement would have to be directly negotiated between the 2 parties. (HA, JP, NYT, POL, TOI, WAFA, WHPO, WP 5/3; HA, WAFA 5/4)

Following a petition to the High Court of Justice from the Israeli NGO Adalah, the IPS announces that it will allow the 1,500-plus hunger-striking Palestinian prisoners observing the Dignity Strike since 4/17 to meet with their lawyers. The announcement comes absent a High Court ruling, but after a hearing at the court, in which the justices appeared to support Adalah’s position. Previously, lawyers were only given access to prisoners at Ofer and Ashqelon Prisons. (HA, JP, WAFA 5/3; MNA 5/5)

The Israeli authorities announce the temporary expansion of the fishing zone off Gaza’s s. coast, from 6 to 9 naut. mi. They do not offer an end date. (MNA, TOI 5/3)

Israeli forces shell a Hamas military post along Gaza’s border nr. Dayr al-Balah, causing no injuries, in response to shots fired at an IDF patrol in the area earlier in the day. In the West Bank, hundreds of Israeli settlers visit Joseph’s Tomb nr. Nablus overnight, sparking clashes between their IDF escort and Palestinian youths from nearby Balata r.c.; there are no serious injuries. Elsewhere, Israeli settlers assault and moderately injure a Palestinian nr. Jenin and damage his car. Israeli forces demolish water pipelines serving Bardala village in the n. Jordan Valley as well as 3 structures in illegal settlement outposts nr. Ramallah. IDF troops arrest 5 Palestinians during late-night raids nr. Bethlehem and Jenin, and patrol nr. Hebron during the day. (HA, JP, MNA, TOI, WAFA 4/27; PCHR 5/4)

Public and private Palestinian institutions across the West Bank and Gaza observe a general strike in solidarity with the Palestinian prisoners who have been on hunger strike since 4/17. Approximately 500 mbrs. of PIJ declare a 1-day hunger strike in solidarity as well. Meanwhile, Israeli settlers open fire on Palestinian protesters marching through al-Bireh in solidarity with the prisoners; there are no serious injuries. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces violently disperse Palestinians at a sit-in in Issawiyya and a solidarity march in Shu‘fat r.c.; there are no serious injuries. (JP, MNA, TOI, WAFA 4/27; MNA 4/28)

The PA informs the Israeli govt. that it will no longer be paying for the electricity that Israel supplies to the Gaza Strip, marking a major change in the PA’s policy toward Hamas’s control over Gaza. The move comes amid an escalating electricity shortage in Gaza, and also follows reports that PA pres. Abbas has been planning to increase pressure on Hamas to give up control of the Gaza Strip. The PA generally pays Israel about NIS 40 m. (approx. $11 m.) per mo. to provide Gaza with around 30% of the electricity it requires. Israel takes the electricity fees out of the taxes it collects on behalf of the PA. Meanwhile, UN coordinator for humanitarian aid and development activities Robert Piper approves the release of $500,000 to buy emergency power for hospitals in the Gaza Strip. (BBC, HA, JP, MNA, TOI 4/27)

Five missiles strike ammunition depots nr. the Damascus International Airport overnight, causing damage but no reported injuries. Syria’s official news agency blames Israel for the strike. The IDF does not comment. Later in the day, Israeli forces shoot down an unmanned aircraft that flew into Israeli airspace from Syria. (HA, JP, NYT 4/27)

IDF troops conduct raids in Abu Dis nr. Jerusalem, sparking clashes with students at Al-Quds University; 6 students are injured. Elsewhere in the West Bank, IDF troops raid the Silwad home of the family of the Palestinian driver who allegedly rammed and killed an Israeli on 4/6. They confiscate NIS 85,000 (approx. $23,000) and a vehicle during raids nr. Jenin; and patrol nr. Ramallah and Hebron. Along Gaza’s border, Israeli forces conduct a limited incursion to level land nr. Khan Yunis and arrest a Palestinian attempting to cross into Israel nr. Jabaliya r.c. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats nr. Jabaliya r.c. and again nr. Bayt Lahiya, causing no damage or injuries. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces ban 7 Palestinians from Haram al-Sharif for periods as long as 6 mos. (They have banned more than 40 Palestinians from the sanctuary in the past few weeks.) Meanwhile, 385 Jewish settlers tour the sanctuary; when a handful of them perform religious rites, guards escort them from the area. (JP, MNA, TOI, WAFA 4/13; PCHR 4/20)

PA pres. Abbas says that he may take “unprecedented steps” to end the Hamas-Fatah rivalry that prevents the PA from taking control of Gaza. “These days, we are in a dangerous and tough situation that requires decisive steps, and we are [ready] to take these decisive steps. Therefore, we are going to take unprecedented steps in the coming days to end the division,” he says. Some analysts say that Abbas’s moves come in response to Hamas’s 3/16 announcement of the formation of a new comm. to administer Gaza. (TOI 4/13)

The Gaza-based Ministry of Interior announces that it will begin accepting applications for jobs in the security forces from female Palestinians. The change in policy marks the first time females will be hired as security forces since 2014. (MNA 4/13)

In Beijing, PA FM al-Maliki calls on China to play a more active role in the Palestinian peace effort, including support for Palestinian initiatives in international forums. China’s FM Wang Yi says that the fact that the Palestinians do not have a sovereign state yet is a “terrible injustice.” (HA, REU, WAFA 4/13)

Human Rights Watch (HRW) calls on the Egyptian govt. to “immediately disclose” whether or not it is detaining the 4 Palestinian men, all reportedly Hamas affiliates from Gaza, who were abducted on 8/19/2015 as they traveled by bus from the Rafah border crossing to Cairo. HRW says that Al Jazeera published a photograph purporting to show 2 of the men in a Cairo facility in 8/2016. The report reads, “incommunicado detention violates basic protections for both civilians and fighters under Egypt’s code of criminal procedure, which requires authorities to bring criminal suspects in front of a prosecutor within 24 hours and prosecutors to charge the detainee based on evidence or release the person immediately. It also violates international law, which requires that all detainees, regardless of their particular status, be brought ‘promptly’ (i.e., within days) before a judicial officer or equivalent to review the legality and necessity of their detention.” (HRW 4/13)

In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces demolish 2 Palestinian buildings under construction in Issawiyya. In the West Bank, IDF troops arrest 1 Palestinian and demolish the contents of a workshop during raids nr. Nablus and Hebron; and patrol nr. Hebron and Nablus. Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops open fire on Palestinian agricultural lands nr. Khan Yunis, causing no damage or injuries. (MNA, WAFA, WAFA 3/28; PCHR 3/30)

A PA commission of inquiry established to investigate the PASF’s repression of protests in c. Ramallah and Dahaysha r.c. on 3/12 finds that the Palestinian troops violated PA regulations and acted disproportionately, although they maintained a “high level of self-control.” The commission recommends punishments for several PASF officers who used excessive violence (PA PM Hamdallah will accept the commission’s recommendations on 3/29). (MNA 3/28; MNA, WAFA 3/29)

Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats, causing no damage or injuries. In the West Bank, an Israeli settler driver rams an elderly Palestinian nr. Nablus, causing moderate injuries. The IDF delivers confiscation orders to the Palestinian owners of 169 dunams (42 acres) of farmland nr. Qalqilya and stop-work orders to 7 Palestinian homes under construction in Kafr al-Dik nr. Salfit. IDF troops arrest 6 Palestinians and confiscate a tractor during raids nr. Ramallah, Jericho, and Tubas; and patrol nr. Hebron during the day. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces demolish 2 residential buildings in Jabal Mukabir. (MNA, WAFA 3/ 20; MNA, WAFA 3/21; PCHR 3/23)

PA pres. Abbas meets with Egyptian pres. Abdel Fattah al-Sisi in Cairo to discuss regional affairs and the prospect of holding a regional peace conference to kick off a new round of peace talks. Al-Sisi reportedly tells Abbas that the Palestinian question will remain a high priority in Cairo. (TOI, WAFA 3/ 20; MNA, WAFA 3/21)

The U.S. State Dept. announces that the U.S. will be boycotting the UNHRC’s discussion of Israel at its 34th session this week, also known as Agenda Item 7. “The U.S. strongly and unequivocally opposes the existence of the UNHRC’s Agenda Item 7,” the State Dept. statement reads. (JP, TOI, USSD 3/20)

Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats nr. Gaza City, causing no damage or injuries. In the West Bank, Israeli settlers throw stones at a Palestinian school in Burin village nr. Nablus, causing no injuries or damage; uproot around 90 grapevine seedlings outside Bethlehem; and assault a Palestinian taxi driver nr. Jerusalem. The IDF patrols nr. Qalqilya, Ramallah, and Hebron during the day. In East Jerusalem, Dep. Knesset Speaker Moshe Feiglin tours Haram al-Sharif with a group of right-wing Jewish activists in the morning. In West Jerusalem, 2 Jewish Israelis assault and moderately injure a Palestinian taxi driver. In s. Israel, Israeli forces demolish a home in the Bedouin community Umm Batin nr. Beersheba. (MNA, WAFA 3/16; MNA 3/17; PCHR 3/23)

Ahead of his 2d meeting with U.S. envoy Greenblatt this week, Israeli PM Netanyahu says, “We are in the midst of a process of dialogue with the White House and our intention is to reach an agreed-upon policy regarding settlement construction. Agreedupon for us, of course, not just for the [U.S.] side.” Netanyahu and Greenblatt then make progress on the issue, pledging to continue contacts next week, according to a joint statement. Separately, Greenblatt meets with leaders of the Yesha Council, an umbrella organization for settlement municipalities. (HA, JP 3/16; JP 3/17)

Hamas announces the formation of a new comm. to administer Gaza. It will comprise mbrs. of the Hamas-affiliated Palestinian Legislative Council bloc and other senior officials. “Hamas has not formed a substitute govt. to replace the [PA] consensus govt.,” according to senior Hamas official Salah Bardawil. “A governmental administrative comm. was formed, not an actual govt. [The comm.] aims to organize the work of state institutions, and any minister from Ramallah is welcome to come to Gaza and do his job, and the comm. will be at his service,” he adds. (ALM 3/22)

Israeli DM Lieberman names the Palestinian National Fund a terrorist organization due to its “continuous and sustained support of entities responsible for serious terrorist activity against Israel.” The PA fund is primarily used to disburse payments to Palestinians imprisoned in Israel on terrorismrelated charges, and to assist prisoners’ families. PA pres. Abbas calls the move “an Israeli attempt to impede, destroy, and belittle” the ongoing U.S.-led peace-making effort. (JP, TOI 3/16)