The Palestine Chronology

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers closed off a street in Huwwara and threw stones at Palestinian-owned vehicles. Israeli settlers also threw stones at Palestinian vehicles in Dayr Sharaf. Elsewhere, Israeli settlers fenced off a tract of Palestinian-owned land in Khirbat Makhul. Israeli forces uprooted 350 olive trees and demolished 3 residential structures south of Jericho. Israeli forces also delivered a stop-work notice for 1 house in al-Khadir and delivered a demolition notice against 1 greenhouse near Jenin. Elsewhere, Israeli forces demolished 1 house and uprooted 1 olive tree in Salfit. Israeli forces also demolished 1 storage structure east of Yatta, leading to clashes with Palestinians; tear-gas related injuries were reported. Meanwhile, Israeli forces shot and injured 1 Palestinian near the separation wall in Barta‘a. 16 Palestinians were arrested during raids in and around Ramallah, Jenin, and Qarawat Bani Hassan in East Jerusalem; 5 Palestinians were arrested. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire at agricultural lands east of Dayr al-Balah; no injuries were reported. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 12/29; WAFA 12/30; PCHR 12/31)

Islamic Jihad, Hamas, and several other smaller armed resistance groups in Gaza carried out a joint military drill, including launching 8 rockets into the sea. (HA, REU 12/29)

After the U.S. state department refused to disclose who the buyer of the ambassador’s residence in Tel Aviv was, an Israeli newspaper disclosed that it was U.S. casino magnate Sheldon Adelson, who had paid $67 million for the seaside property. The U.S. will continue to lease the property until the spring of 2021. The property was sold as part of the Trump administration’s push to cement the move of the U.S. embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. It was also reported that the U.S. state department had approved the sale of 3,00 guided munitions to Saudi Arabia. (HA, WP 12/29; HA 12/30; TOI 1/4)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers attacked Palestinian vehicles traveling near Sinjil. Israeli forces violently dispersed a protest in Kafr Qaddum, causing tear-gas related injuries. Israeli forces also clashed with Palestinians in Jaba‘, causing tear-gas related injuries. PA forces arrested a number of attendants at a party held in the Nabi Musa mosque near Jericho; it was later revealed that the PA had approved the party as part of a promotional video intended to increase tourism. However, several attendees, including famous Palestinian DJ Sama Abdulhadi, were still detained days later. 1 Palestinian was arrested at a checkpoint near Tubas. In East Jerusalem, Israeli settlers clashed with Israeli police and attacked Palestinian passersby during a demonstration against the police because of the death of an Israeli settler during a police pursuit on 12/21; chants of “Death to Arabs” were filmed during the protest. In Gaza, 3 Palestinians, including a minor, were wounded by Israeli forces during air attacks in Gaza City and substantial damage was reported in al-Bureij refugee camp and Dayr al-Balah, including to a mosque, a children’s hospital, a sports club, and a warehouse; Israel said it had intercepted 1 missile from Gaza prior to its attack. Israeli forces also opened fire at agricultural lands east of Dayr al-Balah and al-Bureij refugee camp; no injuries were reported. In Israel, 2 Christmas trees belonging to Catholic and Orthodox churches in Sakhnin were set on fire. (AJ, GDN, HA, HA, HA, MEMO, TOI, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 12/26; PCHR, WAFA 12/27; HA 12/28; ALM 12/30; PCHR 12/31)

Israeli protesters demonstrated against Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu for the 27th Saturday in a row in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. The protesters are demanding that Prime Minister Netanyahu resign due to his COVID-19 response, the Israeli economy, and the corruption cases against him. (HA 12/26; WAFA 12/27)

According to reports in Le Monde, UAE and Israeli officials are working to eliminate the UNRWA and have been working toward that goal since the 2 countries’ normalization agreement in August. (JP, MEE, YNET 12/27)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers assaulted 1 Palestinian in Huwwara; he was treated at a hospital for his injuries. Israeli settlers with military escort also attacked Palestinian homes in Hebron; no injuries were reported. Elsewhere, Israeli settlers attacked Palestinian shepherds and farmers in the Masafer Yatta area, causing several injuries. Israeli forces shot and injured 1 Palestinian using rubber-coated bullets near the separation barrier in the Jenin area. Israeli forces also violently dispersed a protest in Kafr Qaddum, causing tear-gas related injuries. Elsewhere, Israeli forces prevented Palestinians from farming their land in Jalud. 1 man alleged to be Palestinian threw a Molotov cocktail at an Israeli soldier at a checkpoint near Jit before driving away in his car; the soldier was unharmed. 4 Palestinians were arrested during raids in Kisan and Jenin. In East Jerusalem, 2 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in al-Tur. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire at Palestinian shepherds east of Dayr al-Balah; no injuries were reported. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 12/19; TOI, WAFA 12/20; PCHR 12/24)

In Israel, Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu was the 1st to receive the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine for the COVID-19 virus. Israel does not plan to offer vaccinations to Palestinians in the West Bank. The PA says it has secured the Russian-made vaccine Sputnik V, which will arrive in 2021. 20 percent of the Palestinian vaccinations are expected to be delivered for free from the World Health Organization as part of a scheme to deliver vaccinations to poorer countries. (AJ, AP 12/17; REU 12/18; AJ, REU 12/19; HA 12/20)

Israeli protesters demonstrated against Prime Minister Netanyahu for the 26th Saturday in a row in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. The protesters are demanding that Prime Minister Netanyahu resign due to his COVID-19 response, the Israeli economy, and the corruption cases against him. (HA 12/19)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers clashed with Palestinians while touring an evacuated settlement outpost south of Jenin. Israeli forces raided the headquarters of the Union of Palestinian Women’s Committees, an office of the PFLP, and the Abu Judeh Print Shop. Israeli forces also seized 1 coffee shop cart in Huwwara. 26 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in and around al-‘Arub refugee camp, Bayt Umar, Tubas, Kaubar, Abu Dis, and Jericho. In East Jerusalem, 1 Israeli settler attacked a 6-year-old boy in Silwan. 1 Palestinian began demolishing his grocery store in Jabal Mukabir and 1 Palestinian family received a demolition order for their house in Silwan. 2 Palestinians were arrested in Issawiyya. In Gaza, Israeli naval forces opened fire on Palestinian fishermen within 3 nautical miles west of Bayt Lahiya; no injuries were reported. (WAFA, WAFA 12/10; PCHR 12/17)

The Tulkarm, Nablus, Bethlehem, and Hebron, governorates entered a week-long lockdown to curb the spread of the COVID-19 virus. (WAFA 12/10)

U.S. president Donald Trump announced that Morocco had decided to normalize relations with Israel in a deal where the U.S. reverses decades of policy to recognize Moroccan sovereignty over the Western Sahara. As part of the deal, Morocco will open a diplomatic office in Tel Aviv and Israel in Rabat, which eventually will be turned into embassies; both will also grant overflight rights to each other. The UN recognizes the legitimate rights of the Sahrawi people to self-determination as it does the Palestinian people. U.S. officials later told Reuters that the U.S. is negotiating with Morocco to sell 4 sophisticated drones to the country. According to the prime minister of Morocco Saad-Eddine El Othmani, the king of Morocco Mohammed VI and PA president Mahmoud Abbas spoke on the phone after the announcement of the normalization deal. Prime Minister El Othmani also said Morocco still rejects the U.S. peace plan and remains “supportive of the Palestinian cause.” Hamas called the normalization deal a betrayal while the PA has been silent. Moroccans protested the normalization in several cities after the announcement. It was reported by the New York Times that the U.S. also promised Morocco to facilitate an investment of $3 billion over 3 years as part of the deal. (AJ, AP, AX, BBC, GDN, HA, POL, REU, REU, REU, REU, REU 12/10; AJ, HA, HA, HA, HA, HA, HA, REU 12/11; AJ, AJ, REU, TOI 12/12; AJ, GDN, HA 12/13)

India contributed $2 million to the UNRWA. (WAFA 12/10)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces seized 1 tractor south of Hebron. 17 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in and around Nablus, Qalqilya, Hebron, Ramallah, Jenin, Tulkarm, Salfit, and Shu‘fat refugee camp. In East Jerusalem, 1 Palestinian was arrested during a late-night raid. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire on agricultural lands east of Khan Yunis; no injuries were reported. Off the coast of Gaza, Israeli naval forces opened fire on Palestinian fishermen within 3 nautical miles west of Bayt Lahiya. (WAFA, WAFA 12/2; PCHR 12/3)

PA president Mahmoud Abbas extended the COVID-19-related state of emergency for another 30 days as cases continued to rise in the West Bank. (WAFA 12/2)

The PA said it would pay its civil servants their full salaries for November plus an additional 50 percent as the PA starts repaying its civil servants who have only received 50 percent of their salaries for months. The announcement came as the PA also said it received more than $1 billion from Israel, which had been withheld by Israel since February. (AJ, REU, WAFA, WAFA 12/2; ALM 12/3)

The Israeli Knesset voted, in a preliminary vote, to dissolve itself, paving the way for a 4th Israeli election in 2 years. Among the votes to dissolve the Knesset was Kahol Lavan party leader Benny Gantz, who is currently serving as deputy prime minister and minister of defense. The bill was proposed by Yesh Atid and supported by Meretz and Labour, and eventually supported by Gantz’s party, which is part of the government it seeks to dissolve. 3 of the 4 parties that constitute the Joint Arab List also voted for the bill. The last party, United Arab List, was not present for the vote. (AJ, HA, HA, REU, TOI 12/2; HA 12/3)

The foreign ministry of the Czech Republic released a statement saying the country will open a branch of its embassy in Jerusalem, which will be manned by a diplomat. The country’s main embassy will remain in Tel Aviv. The president of the Czech Republic is a proponent of moving the country’s embassy to Jerusalem. The PA summoned the Czech Republic’s representative to Palestine to protest the decision, demanding it be reversed. (HA, REU 12/2; WAFA 12/3)

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

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

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

In the West Bank, Israeli forces demolished 1 Palestinian-owned home in Artas, 1 house under construction in Dayr Sharaf, and 2 warehouses in Anata. Israeli forces also clashed with Palestinians during a raid in Bayt Umar, leading to tear-gas related injuries. 10 Palestinians were arrested, including 9 during late-night raids in and around Kaubar, al-‘Arub refugee camp, Bayt Umar, and Sa‘ir, 1 Palestinian was arrested at the Qalandia checkpoint. In East Jerusalem, Israeli settlers interrupted a press conference held by EU members in the area where Israeli announced plans to construct more than 1,200 settler units on 11/15; among the disrupters was West Jerusalem deputy mayor Arieh King. The EU delegation eventually gave up carrying out its press conference at the site and moved it to the EU offices. 6 Palestinians were arrested. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire on agricultural lands east of al-Maghazi; no injuries were reported. (HA, Twitter, Twitter, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 11/16; WAFA 11/17, PCHR 11/19)

In an ad for an upcoming route to Tel Aviv, the UAE-owned airline Etihad featured a drawing of the 2d Temple as point of interest for visitors. The 2d Temple was destroyed in 70 CE and was located where the Dome of the Rock and al-Aqsa Mosque are now. Etihad later pulled its ad from Twitter. (HA 11/16)

The foreign minister of Qatar Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani said, during a virtual conference on security, that Sudan, Bahrain, and the UAE normalization deals with Israel undermines efforts to create a Palestinian state. (HA, REU, TOI 11/16)

4 Republican senators sent a letter to U.S. president Donald Trump, urging him to change the guidelines on how products from the West Bank are to be labeled when entering the U.S. The 4 senators, Tom Cotton (R-AR), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Marco Rubio (R-FL), and Kelly Loeffler (R-GA), wrote that products from “Judea and Samaria” should be allowed to be labeled as “Made in Israel.” (Senator Tom Cotton 11/16; ALM, WAFA 11/19)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers destroyed electric poles in al-Zawiya. Israeli forces violently dispersed protests in Bayt Dajan against settler encroachment; 3 Palestinians were injured by rubber-coated bullets, others suffered tear-gas related injuries. Israeli forces also shot and injured 3 Palestinian minors at a checkpoint near Jenin using live ammunition; all 3 were rushed to a hospital. Elsewhere, Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinians during the weekly anti-settlement protests in Kafr Qaddum, injuring 1 with a rubber-coated bullet; others suffered tear-gas related injuries. Israeli forces also assaulted 1 mother and her son before arresting the son in Hebron. In East Jerusalem, thousands of Muslim worshippers prayed at the Haram al-Sharif compound despite COVID-19 restrictions; 3 Palestinians were arrested. The mass prayer happened after a legal protest against French president Emmanuel Macron’s recent attacks on Islam. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire at agricultural lands east of Khuza‘a; no injuries were reported. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 10/30; HA 11/1; PCHR 11/5)

The foreign ministry of the Dominican Republic announced that the country is considering moving its embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. (HA, REU 10/31)

In the West Bank, Palestinians fended off Israeli settlers trying to seize their land in Birin. Israeli forces shot and injured 1 Palestinian using live ammunition near the separation wall north of Jenin. 5 Palestinians were arrested, including 4 during late-night raids in Nablus, Anata, Kisan, and Hebron; 1 was arrested by undercover Israeli forces while working at a gas station near Kafr Qaddum. In East Jerusalem, 2 Palestinians started demolishing their own homes to avoid exorbitant Israeli demolition fees. Israeli forces summoned 3 members of Fatah for interrogation in Silwan. (WAFA, WAFA 8/31; PCHR 9/3)

Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar announced that Hamas and Israel had reached an understanding to de-escalate the conflict after nearly a month of daily attacks on Gaza and incendiary balloons launched toward Israel. The understanding was facilitated by Qatari mediators. As part of the de-escalation, the Kerem Shalom border crossing would be reopened on 9/1 and the fishing zone would be reopened up to 15 nautical miles. Sources in Hamas told Haaretz that Israel would allow Qatari aid to enter Gaza again, and that Qatar was granted approval by Israel to build a gas pipeline and operate a power station in Gaza. (AJ 8/31; HA 9/1)

A delegation of senior Israeli and U.S. officials arrived in the UAE to discuss the details of the UAE’s normalization deal with Israel. The delegation arrived in the UAE on an El Al plane flying directly from Tel Aviv to Abu Dhabi using Saudi Arabian airspace. In Israel, prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu said at a press conference that he would discuss sales of U.S. F-35s and other advanced weaponry to the UAE with U.S. president Donald Trump while stressing that U.S. sales of weapons to the UAE was not part of the normalization deal. In a joint statement released by the 3 parties, the language between the English and Arabic releases differed on Israel’s commitment not to annex parts of the West Bank as part of the normalization deal. In the Arabic version it said the agreement had “stopped” Israel’s plans while the English said it had led to “the suspension of Israel’s plans to extend sovereignty.” (HA, REU 8/31; AJ 9/1; REU 9/2)

Syrian officials said that Israel fired missiles at military installments south of Damascus, killing 2 Syrian soldiers and wounding 7. The London-based Syrian Observatory of Human Rights later said that the number of deaths was 10, most of them foreign. (HA 8/31; HA 9/1)

A former Lebanese ambassador to Germany Mustapha Adib was announced as the new prime minister of Lebanon after the government resigned earlier this month. The announcement came as French president Emmanuel Macron was en route for Beirut. Reuters reported that Adib was President Macron’s preferred choice. (AJ, HA 8/31)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers attacked a Palestinian bicyclist near Turmus ‘Ayya, injuring 2, including 1 that needed medical treatment. Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in Beita, injuring 2 with rubber-coated bullets; others suffered tear-gas related injuries. 3 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in Jalazun refugee camp. In East Jerusalem, 1 Palestinian family demolished their own home in Jabal Mukabir to avoid exorbitant Israeli demolition fees; 5 people were displaced. 6 Palestinians were arrested during raids in Issawiyya and the Old City. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire on agricultural lands east of Khuza‘a; no injuries were reported. (WAFA, WAFA 7/18; HA 7/19; JP, REU 7/22; PCHR 7/23)

The PA extended the ban for travel between governorates for 1 more week to prevent the spread of COVID-19. (WAFA 7/18)

In Israel, Israeli protesters were violently dispersed by Israeli police in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem as they were calling for Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s resignation in light of the corruption cases brought against him. (AJ, REU 7/18; HA 7/19)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers set fire to wheat fields in Burin and Qusra. Israeli settlers also razed land in Qusra to build a road between 2 Israeli settlements. Israeli forces seized 5 bulldozers and stone-extracting equipment in a quarry near Ramallah. 5 Palestinians were injured by Israeli forces using rubber-coated bullets during a confrontation in Kafr ‘Aqab, others suffered tear-gas related injuries. 2 Palestinians were arrested during a late-night raid in Dura. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces delivered a demolition notice for 1 Palestinian-owned home in al-Sawahara and demolished 1 shack and 2 shops near al-Sawahara al-Sharqiyya. 11 Palestinians were arrested during raids in and around Silwan, the Old City, al-Tur, and Issawiyya. Off the coast of Gaza, Israeli naval forces opened fire on Palestinian fishermen within 3 nautical miles west of Bayt Lahiya; no injuries were reported. In Israel, a court in Tel Aviv temporarily halted construction of a homeless shelter on a Muslim cemetery in Jaffa after a week of protests. When Jaffa residents and the local Islamic council presented the order to Israeli police, they were violently dispersed and several Palestinian activists were arrested. (HA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 6/17; PCHR 6/18)

Jordanian King Abdullah II told U.S. congressional leaders and committees via video conference that Israeli annexation of parts of the West Bank is unacceptable and will undermine stability and peace. He further stated that peace will only come with the creation of a Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital. (REU 6/16, HA 6/17)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers demolished 1 Palestinian-owned stone wall around agricultural lands in Bayt ‘Aynun. Israeli forces demolished several commercial barracks and street-vending stalls in al-Ram and delivered demolition notifications for 2 Palestinian-owned homes east of Yatta. Elsewhere, Israeli forces set up mobile homes and tents near Bayt Furik. 5 Palestinians were arrested, including 2 during late-night raids in Bayt Fajjar and 3 at checkpoints near Ramallah, Nablus, and Qalqilya. In East Jerusalem, 6 Palestinians were arrested during house raids in Issawiyya and the Old City. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire on Palestinian agricultural lands east of al-Maghazi and Dayr al-Balah; no injuries were reported. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 6/7; PCHR 6/11)

The PA ministry of awqaf and religious affairs said in a report that Israeli authorities prevented the call for prayers at the Ibrahimi Mosque 54 times in May. (WAFA 6/7)

A 2d plane from the UAE carrying COVID-19-related aid materials landed in Tel Aviv. When the 1st flight landed on 5/19, the PA refused the aid as the UAE had not coordinated with the PA beforehand; the aid instead went solely to Gaza. PA prime minister Muhammad Shtayyeh said that the PA again had not been informed about the aid shipment. (HA, REU 6/9)

More than 1 week after Israeli police killed 1 unarmed Palestinian man with autism on a street in East Jerusalem, Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu commented on the killing for the 1st time, calling it “a tragedy.” Prime Minister Netanyahu told his cabinet that he expects “complete examinations into this matter.” (HA, REU 6/7)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in Kafr Qaddum, injuring 5. Israeli forces also ordered a stop-work for a school in Kisan and seized 1 bulldozer. 4 Palestinians were arrested at military checkpoints near Bethlehem and Qalqilya. In East Jerusalem, 1 Palestinian was arrested in Issawiyya and 2 Palestinians were handed notices that they were banned from the Haram al-Sharif compound for 4 and 5 months. Off the coast of Gaza, Israeli naval forces opened fire on Palestinian fishermen within 3 nautical miles off the shore west of Bayt Lahiya; no injuries were reported. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire on Palestinian agricultural lands and shepherds east of al-Maghazi and Khuza‘a; no injuries were reported. (WAFA, WAFA 6/6; PCHR 6/11)

The former leader of Islamic Jihad in Palestine, Ramadan Shalah, died after having been in a coma for more than 2 years. PA president Mahmoud Abbas expressed his condolences to the Shalah family and said Palestine had “lost a great national figure.” (AJ, WAFA 6/7)

In Israel, thousands of protesters demonstrated against the Israeli government’s plans to annex parts of the West Bank at Rabin Square in Tel Aviv. During the protest, a video message from U.S. democratic senator Bernie Sanders (D-VT) urged protesters to stand up against authoritarian leaders and annexation and called for an end of the occupation of the West Bank. According to Sanders’s foreign policy advisor, Matt Duss, Sanders made the address following a request by Israeli-Palestinian MKs Ayman Odeh and Aida Touma-Sliman. (HA, REU, TOI 6/6; AJ, HA, HA, HA 6/7)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers attacked a Palestinian man in Susiya. Israeli forces made Jiftlik a temporary military zone and seized an irrigation system, 2 bulldozers, 1 tractor, and 1 water tank. 21 Palestinians were arrested during raids in and around Bayt Umar, Hebron, al-Fawar refugee camp, Ramallah, Jericho, Nablus, and Tulkarm. In East Jerusalem, 2 Palestinians were arrested. The Israeli Jerusalem municipality ordered some 200 Palestinian-owned industrial buildings in Wadi al-Juz to be evicted and demolished. In Gaza, Israeli forces made incursions to level land. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 6/1; JP, WAFA 6/2; PCHR 6/4)

Israeli defense minister Benny Gantz said he had instructed the Israeli army’s chief of staff to accelerate the army’s preparations for “the upcoming diplomatic changes in the Palestinian area.” Defense Minister Gantz was referring to the potential fallout from Israel’s upcoming plans to annex parts of the West Bank. (HA, REU 6/1)

UAE’s minister of foreign affairs Anwar Gargash tweeted that “[c]ontinued Israeli talk of annexing Palestinian lands must stop. Any unilateral Israeli move will be a serious setback for the peace process, undermine Palestinian self determination & constitute a rejection of the international & Arab consensus towards stability & peace.” The tweet comes after the PA on 5/21 rejected COVID-19-related aid flown directly from the UAE to Tel Aviv. The direct flight was seen as another step toward normalizing ties between the UAE and Israel. (AJ, HA, REU 6/1)

U.S. secretary of state Mike Pompeo said in a podcast that the U.S. government would make announcements this week “push[ing] back against what the ICC is up to.” The ICC is currently investigating possible war crimes committed by the U.S. in Afghanistan and by Israel in the occupied Palestinian territories. (HA 6/2)

The World Bank warned that the Palestinian economy could shrink up to 11 percent in the coming year, citing COVID-19’s impact on the tourism industry and PA-enhanced spending on health. (HA 6/1)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers attacked a Palestinian family traveling on a road near Jenin, throwing stones at the car and later stealing the car when the family fled from it. Elsewhere, Israeli settlers attacked 1 Palestinian farmer near ‘Ayn al-Hilwa and threw stones at houses in Madama. Israeli forces and Palestinians clashed during raids in Furik and Burin; tear-gas related injuries were reported. Israeli forces arrested 3 Palestinians during late-night raids in and around Qalqilya and ‘Azun. In East Jerusalem, 2 Palestinian minors were arrested during late-night raids in Issawiyya. In Israel, a Palestinian man from the West Bank without a work permit was arrested at a hospital in Tel Aviv, where he was being tested for the COVID-19 virus. The man was then taken to a checkpoint in the West Bank, where he was dropped off on the side of the road. Israeli authorities did not inform PA authorities and an ambulance did not arrive until 1.5 hours after he was left on the side of the road. (WAFA, WAFA 3/23; HA 3/24; PCHR 3/27)

The PA announced that it had received $25 million of the $300 million Israel has been withholding in tax revenue. The $25 million was transferred to help the PA combat the spread of the COVID-19 virus. (WAFA 3/23)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces razed 5 dunams (1.2 acres) of land and demolished an agricultural shack in Tarqumiyya; razed 50 dunams (12 acres) of land east of Salfit; and destroyed a water piping system in Jiftlik. Israeli settlers attacked 5 Palestinian shepherds in al-Mughayyir; 3 of the victims needed medical attention for the injuries. 4 Palestinians were arrested during raids in and around Ramallah, al-Bireh, Hebron, and Qalqilya. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces raided the offices of the Palestinian organization Volunteer for Hope in Bayt Hanina, seizing 4 computers, and summoned its director for questioning. Separately, 3 Palestinians were arrested. In Gaza, Israeli forces made incursions to raze agricultural lands north of Bayt Lahiya. Israeli forces also fired at Palestinian shepherds east of Khan Yunis; there were no reports of injuries. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 2/17; PCHR 2/20)

Israel’s transportation ministry said it had approved a 2-mile tunnel extending the Tel Aviv-Jerusalem high-speed railway to the Western Wall. The Jordanian foreign ministry called the plan a “fragrant violation of international law.” (BBC 2/18)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces notified Palestinians in Madama, Tel and Burin that they will seize land for Israeli military purposes. Israeli forces also arrested 3 Palestinians including 1 during a late-night raid in Sabastiyya; and 2 at checkpoints in Nablus and Hebron. Off the coast of Gaza, Israeli naval forces opened fire on Palestinian fishermen 3 nautical miles west of Jabalia, no injuries were reported. (WAFA, WAFA 1/22; PCHR 1/23)

In the West Bank, 1 Palestinian teenager was arrested in Qabalan south of Nablus; he is suspected of raping a girl in Tel Aviv. Israeli forces also arrested 1 Palestinian at a flying checkpoint on the Nablus-Ramallah road. In East Jerusalem, 5 Palestinians were arrested, 2 during late-night raids in Silwan and 3 in Issawiyya. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire on a sewage vacuum truck east of Khan Yunis. (HA 8/15; PCHR 8/22)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces demolished 6 residential tents, 6 livestock enclosures, 2 animal barns, 45 water barrels, and solar panels belonging to 2 Palestinian families in the Ras al-Ahmar area of the Jordan Valley. In Umm al-Khair south of Hebron, Israeli forces demolished a residential structure. 10 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in and around Bethlehem, Hebron, and Salfit. In Gaza, Israeli authorities closed the Gaza fishing zone after 5 fires broke out in southern Israel. Israeli authorities claimed that the fires were ignited by incendiary balloons from Gaza. After closing the fishing zone, Israeli forces claimed to have intercepted a rocket fired from Gaza and subsequently struck targets in Gaza. There were no reports of injuries but reports of limited damage to property. (AJ, HA, WAFA, WAFA 6/12; AJ, HA, MEMO, WAFA, WAFA 6/13)

The PLO and the PA foreign ministry condemned Moldovan acting president Pavel Filip’s decision to move the Moldovan embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. (AJ, WAFA 6/12)

Haaretz reported that it was revealed through a Freedom of Information request that Israel’s strategic affairs minister Gilad Erdan cooperated with the Mossad in combatting the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions movement. (HA 6/12)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces demolished a Palestinian-owned building in Hebron. Elsewhere in the West Bank, Israeli forces demolished a residential structure and 4 barns southwest of Bethlehem. The demolition led to a confrontation with members of the family owning the structures, causing 1 injury. In Tammun near Tubas, Israeli forces uprooted dozens of olive trees and demolished a water well. 6 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in and around Hebron and Jenin. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces demolished a Palestinian-owned building in Sur al-Bahir. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 6/11; WAFA 6/12)

The acting president of Moldova Pavel Filip announced that he would be moving the Moldovan embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. (AJ 6/12)

In the West Bank, thousands of Palestinians marched to commemorate the 71st Nakba Day in Bethlehem and Ramallah. Israeli forces also arrested 7 Palestinians during late-night raids in and around Ramallah, Bethlehem, Jenin, and Nablus. In East Jerusalem, the Israeli civil administration delivered 20 demolition notices to Palestinian buildings in Issawiya and 2 for buildings in Shu‘fat refugee camp. 1 Palestinian was arrested during a late-night raid in Silwan. Also in East Jerusalem, 1 Palestinian teen was hospitalized after being assaulted by Israeli settlers, who during the assault, was yelling “Death to Arabs.” In Gaza, thousands of people commemorated Nakba Day along the Gaza fence. Israeli forces suppressed the commemoration protest using live ammunition, rubber-coated bullets, tear gas, and skunk spray, injuring 65 people. 16 Palestinians were wounded by live ammunition and 14 by rubber-coated bullets. One Palestinian was arrested trying to cross into Israel. Israeli officials reported 9 fires in Israel as a result of incendiary balloons. No injuries were reported in relation to the fires. Off the coast of Gaza, a Palestinian fishermen was injured by Israeli naval forces. (HA, MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 5/15; HA, MNA, WAFA 5/16)

The Israeli high court of justice rejected a petition by a Gaza company producing snacks to allow it to sell its products in the West Bank. The high court sided with the Israeli states argument that it was the PA’s fault that the company could not sell its products in the West Bank. According to Haaretz, there is no clear procedure to how a request the exporting of goods from Gaza to the West Bank. (HA 5/15)

Official data on Israeli government spending on Israeli settlements in the West Bank obtained by AP news agency shows that spending on settlements rose from $330 million in 2016 to $459 million in 2017, the year Donald Trump became the U.S. president. (AJ 5/15)

PA foreign minister Riyad Maliki submitted a memorial to the international court of justice regarding the U.S. relocation of its embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem in May 2018. (WAFA 5/15)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers using bulldozers razed Palestinian-owned land in Madama south of Nablus. Israel arrested 9 Palestinians during late-night raids in and around Hebron, Bayt Safafa, Qalqilya, and Jenin. In Gaza, 2 bodies were found under the rubble of an apartment building destroyed by Israeli missiles in Bayt Hanun; this brings the comprehensive death toll to 32 Palestinians from the weekend’s violence. (MNA, WAFA, WAFA 5/6; MNA, WAFA 5/7)

The Israeli army announced that all Gaza and West Bank crossings into Israel will be closed from midnight (Israeli time) 5/6 to midnight 5/9 for the Israeli celebrations of Memorial Day and Independence Day. Palestinians will be prohibited from entering Israel except for medical and other emergencies. (HA 5/6)

After the cease-fire reached between Hamas and Israel in the late hours of 5/5, Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a statement, “the battle is not over and requires patience and level-headedness. We are prepared to carry on.” The comment indicates that the Israeli bombing campaign is not over. A Hamas spokesperson said in response to Netanyahu’s statement: “Netanyahu’s declarations are ridiculous. The resistance factions have succeeded in deterring and humiliating his military. Our message is that this round is over, but the conflict will not be until we get our rights.” (HA 5/6)

The Israeli supreme court overturned Prime Minister Netanyahu’s decision to prevent 181 Palestinians from the West Bank to partake in a joint Memorial Day ceremony in Tel Aviv. However, only 100 Palestinians will be allowed to attend the Memorial Day ceremony. The event is organized by Combatants for Peace, a group of Israelis and Palestinians working for reconciliation. Netanyahu’s decision was 1st made public on 5/1. (HA 5/6)

U.S. acting secretary of defense Patrick Shanahan said that the U.S. was sending an aircraft carrier to the Middle East because of indications of a “credible threat by Iranian regime forces.” (AJ 5/6)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces dismantled and confiscated a residential tent housing 10 Palestinians in Susiya near Hebron for the 3d time since 4/16. Israeli forces also demolished the home of a Palestinian family near Yatta south of Hebron. Israeli settlers under protection of Israeli forces chopped down at least 150 olive trees in Burqa east of Jerusalem. 17 Palestinians were arrested by Israeli forces during late-night raids in and around Hizma, Nablus, Jenin, Tubas, Ramallah, and Hebron. In Gaza, Israeli forces conducted limited incursions to perform land leveling east of Gaza City. Off the coast of Gaza, Israeli naval forces opened fire of Palestinian fishermen, injuring 1 and detaining 2 others off the shore of al-Sudaniyya. Late at night, Israeli forces fired 5 missiles at targets in Bayt Lahiya, causing damage but no injuries were reported. Israeli authorities claimed that the strikes were in response to incendiary balloons sent from Gaza and landing on Israeli fields, igniting a fire. After the Israeli missiles fired at Bayt Lahiya, Islamic Jihad in Palestine, fired 2 missiles at Israel; no injuries or damage were reported. (MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, WAFA, WAFA 5/1; AJ, HA, MNA, MNA, PNN, WAFA, WAFA 5/2)

The PA rejected a proposal put forward by the EU on 4/30 to accept the Israeli offer of reduced PA tax revenue. Israel is withholding parts of the PA tax revenue, the part that Israel believes the PA spends on Palestinian prisoners and their families. The PA have on several occasions rejected any Israeli transfer that is not the full tax revenue. (HA, 5/1)

Haaretz reported that Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu personally ordered a ban on 181 Palestinian applications from the West Bank wanting to attend a joint Israeli-Palestinian Memorial Day ceremony in Tel Aviv. The event is organized by Combatants for Peace, a group of Israelis and Palestinians working for reconciliation. (HA 5/1)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces blocked the entrance to the town of Tuqu‘ near Bethlehem and stormed the city center, leading to clashes with local residents; no injuries were reported. Israel also issued a military order to confiscate 401 dunams (99 acres) of Palestinian-owned land in al-‘Arub, Bayt Umar, and Halhul near Hebron. Israeli forces also confiscated 4 Palestinian-owned vehicles during late-night raids. 14 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in and around Hebron, Bethlehem, Ramallah, Jenin, Nablus, and Salfit. Separately, a 19-year-old Palestinian woman was also arrested at the al-Zaayim checkpoint for allegedly attempting to stab an Israeli soldier. In East Jerusalem, around 87 Israeli settlers along with Israeli forces stormed Haram al-Sharif to perform prayers. Israeli forces sealed the Damascus Gate of the Old City and arrested 2 Palestinians in the vicinity. Later, demolition notices were delivered for 13 residential structures in the al-‘Izzawiya neighborhood. In Gaza, Israeli forces razed land east of Rafah and fired toward Palestinians east of Khuza‘a; no injuries were reported. (HA, MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, WAFA, WAFA 4/10; MNA, MNA, WAFA 4/11)

Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared victory after the 4/9 Israeli general elections and will serve his 5th term as prime minister. Both U.S. president Donald Trump and secretary of state Mike Pompeo congratulated Netanyahu with his victory. The PR firm behind the Likud party’s initiative to place cameras at the Palestinian-majority polling stations (see 4/9) boasted a historically low turnout among Palestinian citizens of Israel in a Facebook post that also depicted 2 of its employees with Netanyahu and his wife Sara. Turnout among Palestinian citizens of Israel was less than 50 percent. PLO Executive Committee member Hanan Ashrawi called Netanyahu’s victory a vote to “entrench and expand apartheid.” (HA, HA, WAFA 4/10; HA 4/11)

The Palestinian activist and co-founder of the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions movement Omar Barghouti was denied entry to the U.S. to embark on a speaking tour in several U.S. cities and to attend his daughter’s wedding. He was stopped before boarding his plane in Tel Aviv and was told that the American consulate had ordered that he could not board the plane. (NYT 4/11)

Unidentified persons launch a rocket from Gaza into central Israel. It strikes an Israeli home north of Tel Aviv, injuring 7 Jewish Israelis and causing damage. The Israeli Air Force then retaliates with dozens of air strikes on Hamas sites all across Gaza, causing extensive damage and injuring at least 3 Palestinians. Palestinians in Gaza respond, firing at least 50 projectiles into southern Israel and setting of hours of cross-border attacks. An hour after an Egyptian- and UN-backed cease-fire is supposed to go into effect, 30 projectiles are fired into Israel from Gaza. Most are intercepted by Israel’s Iron Dome missile defense system. The rest land in open areas, causing no damage or injuries. The Israeli Air Force then continues its air strikes across Gaza, bombing at least 15 targets in and around Jabaliya refugee camp and causing extensive damage. (EI, HA, HA, HA, JP, MNA, MNA, MNA, TOI, TOI, TOI, WAFA, YA, YA 3/25; HA, MNA, YA 3/26; PCHR 3/28)

After a rocket from Gaza strikes an Israeli home near Tel Aviv (see above), Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu announces that he is cutting his trip to the U.S. short. He still meets with President Donald Trump at the White House, but he skips his planned address at the annual AIPAC conference. At their meeting, Trump signs a formal declaration conveying U.S. recognition of Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights, codifying his 3/21 pledge. Meanwhile, the Israeli authorities decide to indefinitely shut down the Erez and Kerem Shalom border crossings, blocking all traffic of persons and good in and out of Gaza. (EI, HA, HA, HA, JP, MNA, MNA, MNA, TOI, TOI, TOI, WAFA, YA, YA 3/25; HA, MNA, YA 3/26)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers spray-paint racist anti-Palestinian graffiti on Palestinian vehicles and buildings near Jerusalem. They also puncture the tires of 28 Palestinian vehicles. Separately, settlers chop down a number of olive and almond trees in a Palestinian grove near Hebron. Israeli forces deliver stop-work orders to 2 Palestinian homes under construction near Hebron and a water well under construction near Tubas. IDF troops arrest 6 Palestinians during late-night raids in and around Hebron and Ramallah; and patrol near Salfit and Qalqilya. An unexploded piece of Israeli ordnance detonates near Bethlehem, injuring 3 Palestinian minors. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 9 Palestinians during late-night raids in al-Tur, Jabal Mukabir, Hizma, and Silwan. (MNA, MNA, MNA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 3/25; PCHR 3/28)

Hundreds of Palestinians gather along Gaza’s border near Rafah to set tires on fire and otherwise continue the Great March of Return. IDF troops violently disperse them, causing no serious injuries. After unidentified Palestinians fly an incendiary balloon into southern Israel, the Israeli Air Force conducts air strikes on Hamas sites in central and southern Gaza, causing extensive damage. Also along Gaza’s border, IDF troops open fire on Palestinian farmlands near Rafah and Khan Yunis, causing no major damage. In the West Bank, IDF troops arrest 6 Palestinians during late-night raids near Qalqilya and Bethlehem; and patrol near Hebron and Qalqilya. In East Jerusalem, a Palestinian demolishes his own home in Ras al-Amud in order to avoid paying Israeli demolition fees. Israeli settlers assault and injure a Palestinian in Shaykh Jarrah. In Israel, hundreds of Israelis gather in Tel Aviv to call for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to resign over the allegations of corruption against him. (HA, HA, MNA, MNA, MNA, TOI, WAFA 3/2; MNA, MNA 3/3; PCHR 3/7)

An elderly Palestinian woman dies of complications related to a heart attack at Haram al-Sharif (Israeli forces reportedly prevented an ambulance from reaching her in time to administer the proper treatment). In the West Bank, Israeli forces carry out the punitive demolition of a Palestinian home in al-Amari refugee camp near Ramallah, sparking clashes with residents of the area; at least 56 Palestinian are injured. The home belonged to the Palestinian responsible for fatally injuring an Israeli soldier during clashes in the camp on 5/24. IDF troops shoot, injure, and arrest a Palestinian minor who was allegedly throwing Molotov cocktails at Israeli settler vehicles outside Ramallah earlier in the day. They also arrest 13 Palestinians during late-night raids near Ramallah, Hebron, and Nablus; and patrol near Hebron, Bethlehem, Qalqilya, and Salfit. Israeli settlers throw stones at Palestinian vehicles near Bethlehem, Qalqilya, Tulkarm, Qalqilya, and Nablus; 1 Palestinian is injured and there are no reports of serious damage. In 4 separate incidents off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Gaza City and Jabaliya refugee camp; 1 fishermen is injured and 3 are arrested. (MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, TOI, TOI, WAFA 12/15; EI 12/18; PCHR 12/20)

Australian prime minister Scott Morrison announces that the Australian government has decided to recognize West Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. He also says that Australia will not move its embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem until a final peace agreement is reached. Morrison’s announcement draws criticism from Israelis and Palestinians alike. PLO secretary general Saeb Erakat calls on Arab and Muslim countries to sever all ties with Australia. Numerous senior Israeli officials criticize Morrison for recognizing only West Jerusalem as Israel’s capital. (AJ, AP, CNN, HA, TOI 12/15)

Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops open fire on Palestinian farmers, shepherds, and bird-hunters working near Khan Yunis and Gaza City; there are no reported injuries. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Bayt Lahiya, causing no damage or injuries. In the West Bank, IDF troops shoot and injure a Palestinian during clashes sparked by an arrest raid in Abu Qash near Ramallah. Separately, IDF troops open fire on a Palestinian vehicle driving outside Dayr Abu Mash‘al near Ramallah; 3 Palestinian minors are injured (1 critically). Meanwhile, IDF troops arrest 16 Palestinians during raids near Ramallah, Qalqilya, Salfit, Jenin, and Nablus; and patrol in and around Hebron. Israeli settlers throw stones at Palestinian homes in Urif village near Nablus, sparking a minor confrontation with residents of the area; there are no major injuries or damage reported. In East Jerusalem, dozens of right-wing Jewish activists tour Haram al-Sharif in the morning. Israeli forces arrest 2 Palestinians during late-night raids in Qalandia refugee camp. (MNA, MNA, WAFA 11/18; HA, MNA, MNA 11/19; PCHR 11/22)

At a press conference in Tel Aviv, Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu announces that he is taking on the position of defense minister following Avigdor Lieberman’s resignation on 11/14. He also says it would be “irresponsible” to force early elections during “one of our most difficult security periods.” (HA, JP, JP, MNA 11/19)

A U.S. State Department official says that the Trump administration is considering retaliatory measures against the Palestinians following PA president Abbas’s “premature” and “counterproductive” decision to sign accession documents for 11 international treaties and conventions on 11/15. “The U.S. continues to make clear, both with the parties and with international partners, that the only realistic path forward is through direct negotiations aimed at achieving a comprehensive and lasting peace,” the official says. “We are currently reviewing possible consequences of the Palestinians’ recent actions.” (TOI, USSD 11/18)

In East Jerusalem, approximately 35 right-wing Jewish activists tour Haram al-Sharif. In the West Bank, IDF troops arrest 7 Palestinians and confiscate NIS 500,000 (approximately $134,731) during raids near Jenin, Tulkarm, Hebron, and Nablus; and patrol near Hebron, Tulkarm, and Salfit. Along Gaza’s border, Israeli forces conduct a limited incursion to level land near Khan Yunis and open fire on Palestinian shepherds and agricultural lands near Dayr al-Balah, causing no damage or injuries. (MNA, MNA, WAFA, WAFA 11/15; PCHR 11/22)

PA president Mahmoud Abbas signs accession papers for the State of Palestine to join 11 international organizations and conventions, including the Universal Postal Union, Convention on the Nationality of Married Women, Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child, Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women, Basel Protocol on Liability and Compensation for Damage Resulting from Transboundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes and their Disposal, Vienna Convention of Road Traffic, Protocol concerning countries or territories at present occupied, Convention on Consent to Marriage, Minimum Age for Marriage and Registration of Marriages, Agreement Establishing the Common Fund for Commodities, and the International Convention on the Arrest of Ships. (MNA, TOI, WAFA 11/15)

One day after Israeli defense minister Avigdor Lieberman resigned in protest of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s decision to reach a cease-fire with the armed Palestinian groups in Gaza, both Finance Minister Moshe Kahlon and Interior Minister Aryeh Deri call for snap elections to be held as soon as possible. Meanwhile, hundreds of Israelis from communities near Gaza gather in central Tel Aviv to protest the government’s response to the recent rocket fire from Gaza. Many call for Netanyahu to resign. Netanyahu, for his part, presents to a group of leaders from the border communities a NIS 500 million (approximately $135 million) plan to support them over the next 2 years. (HA, HA, JP, YA 11/15; HA, MNA, TOI 11/16)

UNRWA commissioner general Pierre Krähenbühl says that the agency has almost entirely made up for the budget shortfall caused by U.S. president Trump’s decision to slash U.S. support for UNRWA earlier this year. He says that UNRWA has raised an addition $382 million, bringing the deficit to just $64 million. “I’ll be very honest in saying, I don’t think many people believed that we would be able to overcome a $446 million shortfall at the beginning of the year,” he says, crediting the EU, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE for each upping their pledges of support this year. (AFP, TOI 11/15)

Approximately 1,500 right-wing Jewish activists visit Joseph’s Tomb near Nablus overnight, sparking clashes between their IDF escort and Palestinian residents of the area; 20 Palestinians are injured, including 2 journalists. Elsewhere in the West Bank, IDF troops raid a Palestinian boys school near Nablus, sparking minor clashes; there are no reported injuries. They also arrest 3 Palestinians during raids in Qalqilya; and patrol near Hebron and Tulkarm. Separately, PA security forces arrest dozens of Hamas affiliates during raids across the West Bank. The raids come one day after Hamas security forces summoned dozens of Fatah members for interrogation in Gaza. In East Jerusalem, approximately 1135 right-wing Jewish activists tour Haram al-Sharif to commemorate Sukkot, sparking minor confrontations between their Israeli security escort and Palestinian worshippers; there are no reported injuries or arrests. Israeli forces arrest 8 Palestinians during raids in Qalandia refugee camp, Biddu, and the Old City. Along Gaza’s border, Israeli forces conduct limited incursions to level land near Khan Yunis and Bayt Lahiya. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Jabaliya refugee camp, causing no damage or injuries. (MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, TOI, TOI, WAFA, WAFA 9/27; PCHR 10/4)

PA president Mahmoud Abbas addresses the UN General Assembly in New York City, calling on the Trump administration to reverse its recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, reinstate aid to UNRWA, and oppose Israel’s settlement enterprise. “It is ironic that the [Trump] administration still talks about what they call the ‘Deal of the Century,’” he says. “But what is left for this administration to give to the Palestinian people?" He also calls on Hamas to implement their 12/7/17 reconciliation agreement and give up control of Gaza to the PA. In response, Hamas releases a statement calling Abbas’s speech a “declaration of failure” on the stalled Palestinian reconciliation process. (HA, TOI, YA 9/27; DPA, HA, HA, JP, MNA, MNA, TOI, YA, YA 9/28)

Jordan’s Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi says that Germany, Sweden, the EU, Japan, and Turkey, as well as a number of other countries, collectively pledged $118 million to UNRWA at a meeting on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York City this week. Meanwhile, the Ad Hoc Liaison Committee, the main policy-level fundraising body for the Palestinians, meets in New York to discuss an proposed humanitarian aid package for Gaza. (HA, JP, MNA 9/28; TOI 9/29)

After meeting with Rwandan president Paul Kagame, Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu announces that Israel and Rwanda will soon open embassies in each other’s countries. Netanyahu also says Kagame wants to start a direct flight between Kigali and Tel Aviv. (TOI 9/29)