The Palestine Chronology

In the West Bank, 1 Palestinian man shot by Israeli forces during a raid in Jenin refugee camp on 5/13 succumbed to his injuries. An Israeli settlement guard detained 1 Palestinian minor near the Yitzhar settlement. Israeli settlers also vandalized 50 olive trees in Yasuf. Israeli forces arrested 1 Palestinian man from al-Bireh carrying an axe; Israeli police claimed that a suicide note was found on his person. Israeli forces also violently dispersed Palestinian protesters during a Nakba Day commemoration near al-Bireh, injuring 20, including 7 with live ammunition, 3 with baton rounds, and 6 with tear gas. Elsewhere, Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinians commemorating the Nakba at Palestine Technical University in Tulkarm, causing tear-gas related injuries. Israeli forces also delivered a demolition notice for 1 house in as-Samu. Off the coast of Gaza, Israeli naval forces opened fire at Palestinian fishermen northwest of Rafah; no injuries were reported. In Israel, Israeli forces arrested 3 Palestinian students at Tel Aviv University during a Nakba Day protest, claiming the 3 had assaulted right-wing counter protesters; 2 were released the same day. (AJ, AP, AX, HA, HA, MEE, REU, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 5/15; HA, MDW, MEMO, MEMO 5/16; PCHR 5/19; UNOCHA 6/4)

Israel reopened the crossings between Gaza and Israel for the 1st time since 5/3. (HA 5/14; MEMO 5/15; PCHR 5/19)

The Israeli high court of justice rejected 4 petitions against the planned Jerusalem cable car project. The project had been heavily criticized by Palestinians for seeking to deepen the Israeli occupation of East Jerusalem and by Israelis who believe the cable car would harm the aesthetics of the city. (AP, HA, REU 5/15; MEE 5/16)

The Jerusalem Post reported that Israeli prime minister Naftali Bennett instructed his government to examine options of demolishing the family homes of Palestinian citizens of Israel convicted of committing attacks against Israeli Jews and whether Israel can deport their families to Gaza. (JP 5/16)

Berlin police arrested more than 170 pro-Palestine protesters marking Nakba Day. Berlin police had banned all Palestinian events and protests in the days surrounding Nakba Day, citing the potential for anti-Semitic sentiments. 1 of the banned pro-Palestine protests was organized by the Jewish organization Jüdische Stimme. (HRW 5/20; +972 5/21)

Members of the Somalia parliament elected Hassan Sheikh Mohamud as the country’s new president. During Mohamud’s previous tenure, he secretly met with then Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Tel Aviv in 2016, discussing potential normalization. (TOI 5/22)

In the West Bank, 1 Palestinian teen shot by Israeli forces during an anti-settlement protest on 6/16 in Beita succumbed to his injuries. Israeli forces demolished 1 house in Halhul and displaced 8 Palestinians, demolished 1 car wash in Jinsafut, delivered demolition orders for 8 structures in Jawaya, and demolished 1 agricultural structure in Wadi Muhaisen. Israeli forces also shot and injured 4 Palestinians during a late-night raid in Jenin. Elsewhere, Israeli forces continued blocking the main road to ‘Azun for the 2d day in a row. 7 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in and around Jalazun refugee camp, Yatta, Tarqumiyya, and Kafr Dan. In East Jerusalem, 2 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in Silwan. In Gaza, Israeli forces conducted air strikes in Khan Yunis and Gaza City, causing damage; no injuries were reported. Israel said the air strikes were in response to incendiary balloons sent toward Israel, which were said to have ignited 8 fires. In Israel, a Palestinian Israeli journalist had large parts of his home blown up by a bomb planted in his house in Taibeh, causing severe damage but no injuries. This happened 2 weeks after his house was shot at by unknown assailants on 6/3. (ABC, AJ, AP, CNN, HA, HA, MEE, MEE, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 6/17; HA, MEMO, WAFA 6/18; WAFA 6/21; PCHR 6/24)

The Palestinian Health Work Committees reopened its office in al-Bireh despite an Israeli order to close the office for 6 months after a raid on 6/9. The PA health minister Mai al-Kaila attended the reopening ceremony. (WAFA 6/17; WAFA 6/19)

The new Israeli health minister Nitzan Horowitz of Meretz (Vigor) decided to loan the PA 1.2 million nearly expired doses of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine in exchange for a shipment of Pfizer vaccines set to arrive to the PA in 2022. (AP, HA, REU, WAFA 6/18)

An Israeli court ordered a Palestinian woman be released into house arrest and criticized Israeli police for trying to force her to confess that she intended to hit an Israeli soldier with her car at a checkpoint in East Jerusalem on 6/15. (HA 6/20)

Israel arrested a Palestinian Israeli imam of Lydda’s largest mosque, Shaykh Yousef al-Baz, saying he had incited violence by sharing a clip from a movie showing people killing a police officer on Facebook. (HA 6/17; MEMO 6/18)

The Israeli justice ministry indicted 1 Israeli border police officer for reckless homicide in relation to the shooting of Eyad al-Hallaq, a Palestinian man with special needs, in the Old City of East Jerusalem on 5/30/2020. The indictment stated that the Israeli soldier executed al-Hallaq while he was lying on the ground, wounded and incapacitated. (AJ, AP, HA, MEE, MEMO, REU 6/17)

Israel shelled a location near the village of al-Qahtaniah in Quneitra, Syria. (TOI 6/17)

Haaretz reported that former prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered official documents shredded on the last day in office. (HA 6/17; HA 6/21)

U.S. secretary of state Antony Blinken and foreign minister Yair Lapid spoke for the 2d time since the formation of the new Israeli government on 6/13. (REU 6/17; JP, HA 6/18)

In Lebanon, a general strike was held in protest over the Lebanese politicians’ inability to form a government. (AP 6/17)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces leveled Palestinian-owned land near Hizma. Israeli forces also seized tents sheltering 2 Bedouin families near Taybeh, displacing 15 people. Elsewhere, Israeli forces assaulted 3 Palestinians near Jenin while they were traveling to their workplaces in Israel. 5 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in Rantis, Dayr Abu Mash‘al, and Hebron. In East Jerusalem, Israel banned a bazaar to support Palestinian National Economic Week in Bayt Hanina. 1 Palestinian was arrested in Issawiyya. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire at Palestinian farmers east of Khuza‘a; no injuries were reported. (MEMO, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 6/13; PCHR 6/17)

The Knesset voted to confirm the new Israeli government headed by Naftali Bennet of Yamina (Rightwards). Yair Lapid of Yesh Atid (There Is a Future) will serve as alternate prime minister and foreign minister. After 2 years, the coalition agreement will rotate the minister posts so Prime Minister Bennett will become alternate prime minister and interior minister, while Yair Lapid will become prime minister. Ra’am (United Arab List), headed by Mansour Abbas, received roles as deputy ministers, deputy Knesset speaker, chairman of the Arab affairs committee, and will chair Knesset’s interior committee, in return for the party’s support of the government. Abbas also pushed through demands, such as a freeze of the Kaminitz law and large budgets for ending gun violence and infrastructure in Palestinian Israeli communities. During his address to Knesset, Prime Minister Bennett said that he, like his predecessor, opposes the Iran nuclear deal and that he would address the housing needs of Palestinian citizens of Israel. U.S. president Joe Biden spoke to Prime Minister Bennett 2 hours after the government was sworn in. In his last speech as prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu said that he had ignored demands from the U.S. government to freeze settlement construction in East Jerusalem and that he rejected U.S. plans to reopen the U.S. consulate in East Jerusalem. Netanyahu also told Bennett that he would not partake in a formal inauguration ceremony on 6/14. (HA 6/11; ABC, AJ, AJ, ALM, AP, CNN, DW, HA, HA, HA, HA, HA, HA, HA, JP, NYT, NYT, REU, REU, TOI, WAFA 6/13; AJ, AJ, AJ, AP, GDN, HA, HA, HA, HA, REU, TOI 6/14; AP 6/15)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers set fire to more than 100 hay bales south of Hebron. Israeli forces shot and injured 1 Palestinian using live ammunition during a raid in Ya‘bad; others suffered tear-gas related injuries. Israeli forces demolished 1 residential tent and 2 agricultural tents, and seized solar panels in al-Samou. Israeli forces also razed a tract of land near Khirbet Umm al-Khawas in the Masafer Yatta area for settlement expansion. 21 Palestinians were arrested during raids in and around Ramallah, Tulkarm, Jenin, Tubas, Qalqilya, Bethlehem, Hebron, and Qatanna. In East Jerusalem, 1 Palestinian was arrested during a house raid in Silwan. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 6/1; WAFA 6/2; PCHR 6/3)

The Israeli Jerusalem affairs ministry told a Jerusalem court that it had frozen plans by settler organization Ateret Cohanim to open a Yemeni Jewish heritage center in Silwan as part of its plans to Judaize East Jerusalem. (HA 6/2)

PA president Mahmoud Abbas extended the COVID-19-related state of emergency by 30 days. (WAFA 6/1)

PA prime minister Mohammed Shtayyeh met with Omani officials in Muscat and the Kuwaiti prime minister Sabah al-Khalid al-Sabah in Kuwait. (WAFA, WAFA 6/1)

The PA summoned representatives from Austria, the Czech Republic, the UK, and Bulgaria to express dissatisfaction with the countries’ votes in favor of protecting Israel from investigations at the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) on 5/27. (WAFA 6/1)

Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu said, during the ceremony for Mossad’s new chief David Barneam that if he had to choose between “[f]riction with the United States and eliminating the Iranian threat—eliminating the existential threat wins.” (AP, HA 6/1)

Israel summoned the ambassador of Argentina to Israel because of the country’s vote at the UNHRC on 5/27 to investigate potential Israeli war crimes. In the past couple of days, Israel has also summoned the ambassadors of Mexico and the Philippines over their votes at the UNHRC. (JP 6/1)

During a trip to Israel, senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC) told Fox News that Israel is planning to ask the U.S. for $1 billion in military aid to “replenish the Iron Dome batteries” after the 11 days of escalation of violence last month, which Israel dubbed “Operation Guardian of the Walls.” (HA, HILL, REU 6/1; AJ 6/2)

17 Democratic U.S. senators led by Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Chris Murphy (D-CT), and Jeff Merkley (D-OR) signed a letter to secretary of state Antony Blinken urging him to pressure Israel to allow humanitarian aid into Gaza. Israel is conditioning the allowance of much of the humanitarian aid into Gaza on a number of demands to Hamas, including releasing 2 Israeli citizens and the bodies of 2 soldiers. The senators also called on Secretary Blinken to see that aid to Palestinians be raised to the same amount as before former president Donald Trump slashed it. (AX 6/1; HA 6/2)

According to the Financial Times, almost 200 Facebook employees have asked the company to set up a task force to investigate claims that the company suppresses pro-Palestinian voices on its social media platforms. (AJ 6/2; WAFA 6/4)

EU representative to Palestine Sven Kühn von Burgsdorff said, during a press conference held in front of the ruins of the al-Jala high-rise in Gaza City, that reconstruction of Gaza required Israel lifting its blockade of the area. (WAFA 6/1)

In the West Bank, 1 Palestinian minor succumbed to wounds sustained from Israeli live ammunition on 5/18. Israeli settlers leveled land in Kisan. Israeli settlers also set up mobile homes south of Hebron. Israeli forces also raided Jaba‘, injuring 4, including 1 minor, when Palestinians confronted the forces. Israeli forces also raided ‘Araqa, injuring 1 minor with live ammunition, when Palestinians confronted the forces. Elsewhere, Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in Bethlehem, injuring 7 with rubber-coated bullets and others with tear gas. 11 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in and around Hebron, Nablus, Jenin, and Jericho. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces raided al-Makassed Hospital, leaving without making arrests. 8 Palestinians were arrested during raids in the Old City, al-Tur, Silwan, and Shu‘fat. In Gaza, 4 Palestinians were killed and many were injured, raising the comprehensive death toll since 5/10 from 232 to 236, including 65 children and 3 pregnant women. The casualties included: 1, and 9 wounded, including 3 children, during an air strike on a house in Khan Yunis; 1, and 1 wounded in an air strike on Bayt Lahiya; 2 in an air strike on a car traveling in Jabaliya. Israeli air strikes also hit power lines near Rafah, causing a total electricity blackout in the city. Israeli forces attacked 1 house in Khan Yunis, causing damage, but the missile remained unexploded as it landed on a bed, saving the family living in the house. 4 factories were also destroyed by Israeli air strikes in an industrial zone east in al-Muntar. In Israel, 1 Israeli soldier was injured by an anti-tank missile rocket fired from Gaza at a military bus. 1 rocket from Gaza hit a house in Ashkelon, causing damage; no injuries were reported. Israeli forces violently dispersed a funeral procession for 1 Palestinian-Israeli who was killed by Israeli police on 5/19 in Umm al-Fahm; 3 were arrested; a general strike was also called in Umm al-Fahm in protest over the killing. (AJ, HA, HA, PCHR, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 5/20; MEE, PCHR 5/21; NYT 5/26; PCHR 5/27)

It was reported that a ceasefire between Hamas, Islamic Jihad in Palestine, and Israel had been brokered by Egypt and would take effect at 2 a.m. on 5/21. Prior to the reporting, Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu had called a meeting at the security cabinet. Shortly after the 2 sides announced the ceasefire, U.S. president Joe Biden praised Egyptian president Abdel Fattah al-Sisi for his role in the ceasefire and Prime Minister Netanyahu for agreeing to it. Biden said in remarks that “Palestinians and Israelis equally deserve to live safely and securely and to enjoy equal measures of freedom, prosperity, and democracy,” in what can be viewed as a slight shift in the paradigm of U.S. statements on Israel and Palestine. President al-Sisi also praised President Biden for his work on the ceasefire agreement. Several prominent Democrats in the U.S. House and Senate welcomed the news of the ceasefire, but said it was time to do more to resolve the roots of the conflict. PA foreign minister Riyad al-Maliki called for the world to address the core issues, saying that the ceasefire is not enough. (AJ, AJ, AP, AP, AP, AP, AX, AX, GDN, HA, REU, REU, WAFA 5/20; AM, AP, CNN, FOX, HA, HA 5/21)

Haaretz reported that 90% of the Israeli citizens charged for the violence in Israeli towns and cities since the start of the Hamas-Israel escalation were Palestinian citizens of Israel. District prosecutors have been criticized for not indicting Jewish-Israelis. (HA 5/20)

Adalah filed a petition on behalf of Palestinians in Shayk Jarrah to have Israeli police remove checkpoints around the neighborhood, which are severely impeding the residents’ freedom of movement. The checkpoints are also meant to block entry of Palestinians who are not residents of the neighborhood, as many residents remain threatened by evictions. (Adalah, HA 5/20)

The Israeli Electric Company said it would not restore the damaged power lines in Gaza until 2 Israelis, believed to be held captive by Hamas, and the bodies of 2 dead Israelis are returned to Israel. (HA 5/20)

PA president Mahmoud Abbas spoke with German chancellor Angela Merkel about efforts to get a ceasefire agreement between Hamas and Israel. President Abbas also met with German foreign minister Heiko Maas in Ramallah. (AJ, WAFA, WAFA 5/20)

Before the ceasefire was announced, Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh wrote a letter to Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, asking for “mobilization of Arab, Islamic and international support” in ending Israeli air strikes. (AP 5/20)

Iran’s president Hassan Rouhani said that the country had reached an agreement in principle with the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action signatories about complying with and having the U.S. rejoin the deal. (HA 5/20)

U.S. senator and chair of the Senate budget committee Bernie Sanders (D-VT) said he would introduce a resolution of disapproval of a $735 million arms sale to Israel. (AJ, ALM, HA, REU 5/20)

At the UN, U.S. ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield said that the U.S. had “not been silent,” despite blocking UN security council statements criticizing the violence from the latest escalation between Hamas and Israel. UN general-secretary António Guterres said he was “deeply shocked by the continued air and artillery bombardment” of Gaza and said that Gaza’s children lived in “hell on Earth.” No unified statement was released by the UN general assembly. (AJ, AJ, ALM, HA, REU 5/20)

1 Jewish AP reporter was fired after Stanford University College Republicans criticized her for pro-Palestinian activism while she was a student at the school, before she was hired at AP. Later, more than 100 AP journalists wrote an open letter to AP criticizing the decision. (SFGATE 5/20; FOX, MEE, MEMO 5/21; MEE 5/22; MEE 5/24)

The foreign minister of Germany, the Czech Republic, and Slovakia visited Israel upon the invitation of Israeli foreign minister Gabi Ashkenazi to be briefed on the Israeli-Hamas escalation. In meetings with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the 3 foreign ministers were shown parts of a drone that had been shot down on 5/18 that Netanyahu claimed was Iranian. (ALM, HA 5/20)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers attacked 2 Palestinians in al-Zubeidat. Israeli forces shot and killed 1 Palestinian minor using live ammunition during a confrontation in al-‘Arub refugee camp. Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in Husan, leading to tear-gas related injuries. Israeli forces also violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in Hebron, leading to tear-gas related injuries. Elsewhere, Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinians protesting in Jenin, leading to tear-gas related injuries. Palestinian protests were also held in Qabatiya and Rumana. 8 Palestinians were arrested, including 7 during late-night raids in Dayr Abu Mash‘al, Jenin, Jericho, and Bayt Rima; 1 was arrested while in a park in Jenin. In East Jerusalem, Israeli settlers raided the Bab al-Rahma cemetery at the Haram al-Sharif compound. 3 Palestinians were arrested during raids in al-Tur, the Old City, and Silwan. In Gaza, 13 Palestinians were killed, including 2 children, and dozens were injured, raising the comprehensive death toll since 5/10 from 203 to 216, including 62 children and 2 pregnant women. The casualties included: 1 in an air strike on a house in Jabaliya; 1 while driving a car near Gaza City; 4 by an Israeli air strike near a seaside café west of Gaza City; 2, including 1 child, in an air strike on an apartment building in Gaza City; 1 child, and 1 child was wounded during an air strike at a house in Dayr al-Balah; 1, and 1 injured in an air strike in Abasan; 2, and 2 injured in a drone strike in Bayt Lahiya; 1 succumbed to wounds sustained on 5/13 during an air strike on the American Hospital west of Bayt Lahiya; 1 Palestinian was found in rubble from a massive air strike that killed 43 in Gaza City on 5/16, raising the death toll from that strike to 44. Israel also conducted large-scale air attacks on al-Bureij, Nuseirat refugee camp, Dayr al-Balah, Gaza City, and Khan Yunis, causing extensive damage and injuries; among the buildings damaged was the Gaza COVID-19 vaccination center and a large bookstore. It was reported that several power lines had been destroyed, making the electricity supply to Gaza even worse. In Israel, 1 Jewish-Israeli man was killed by Palestinian-Israeli stone-throwers in Lydda. Israel said 6 rockets were fired from Lebanon toward Israel, but landed in Lebanese territory; Israel subsequently attacked areas of Lebanon. (AP, HA 5/16; AJ, AJ, AJ, AP, AP, HA, MEE, MEE, PCHR, REU, REU, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 5/17; PCHR 5/18; HA, MEE 5/19; PCHR 5/20; MEE 5/21; NYT 5/26)

The Fatah central committee called for a general strike to protest evictions of Palestinians from East Jerusalem and the Israeli attacks on Gaza on 5/18. A similar call was made by the High Follow-Up Committee for Arab Citizens of Israel on 5/16. (MEE, WAFA 5/17)

PA civil affairs minister Hussein al-Sheikh, general intelligence chief Majid Faraj, and advisor for the president on diplomatic affairs Majdi Khaldi met with U.S. deputy assistant secretary for Israel and Palestinian affairs Hady Amr in Ramallah. The trio urged the U.S. to pressure Israel to stop its attack on Gaza and evictions of Palestinians in East Jerusalem. Deputy Assistant Secretary Amr also met with PA president Mahmoud Abbas and PA prime minister Mohammed Shtayyeh. (AJ, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 5/17)

U.S. president Joe Biden called for a ceasefire during a phone call with Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu. (AJ, AX, NPR, REU 5/17; AJ, AP, HA 5/18; AP 5/19)

Amnesty International said Israel’s attacks on Gaza must be investigated as war crimes, given their targeting of residential homes. (AI 5/17; WAFA 5/19)

In the West Bank, 1 Palestinian minor, shot by Israeli forces on 5/12, succumbed to his wounds. Israeli settlers shot and injured 1 Palestinian while raiding Bani Na‘im. Israeli settlers with military escort also raided Silat al-Harithiyya, leading to confrontations; no injuries were reported. Elsewhere, Israeli settlers also blocked a main road to al-Bireh and threw stones at Palestinian vehicles, causing damage. Israeli settlers also threw stones at Palestinian vehicles near Bayt Jala and al-Walaja. Israeli forces shot and killed 1 Palestinian using live ammunition during a Nakba Day protest in Zeita, near Tulkarm. Israeli forces also violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in Aida refugee camp, causing tear-gas related injuries. Elsewhere, Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in Tura, injuring 1 with live ammunition. Israeli forces also violently dispersed Palestinian protesters at a checkpoint near Huwwara, injuring 1 with a rubber-coated bullet; others suffered tear-gas related injuries. Separately, Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in Hebron, injuring 1 with live ammunition and 1 with rubber-coated bullets; others suffered tear-gas related injuries. Israeli forces also violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in Bayt Umar, leading to tear-gas related injuries. 7 Palestinians were arrested, including 2 during house raids in al-Khadir and Dura, and 5 during protests near Jenin. In East Jerusalem, Israeli settlers with military escort raided Bayt Hanina and Shu‘fat refugee camp, leading to confrontations; 2 Palestinians were injured by the Israeli forces in Bayt Hanina. Israeli settlers later raided Shu‘fat refugee camp again, injuring 2 Palestinians with live ammunition. Israeli forces shot and killed 1 Palestinian, saying he had intentionally rammed 7 officers, who were lightly injured, in Shaykh Jarrah; 1 journalist was physically assaulted at the scene and others had stun grenades thrown at them. 25 Palestinians were arrested. In Gaza, 50 Palestinians were killed, including 19 children, and dozens were injured, raising the comprehensive death toll since 5/10 from 153 to 203, including 60 children and 2 pregnant women. The casualties included: 43, including 19 children, and dozens wounded in air strikes hitting residential buildings in Gaza City; 1, and 2 wounded in a drone strike in Jabaliya; 1, and 11 injured in air strikes on a residential buildings in Nuseirat; 3 in air strikes on Bayt Hanun; 2 in a drone strike on a house in Rafah. Israel also attacked and demolished the homes of Hamas leader in Gaza Yahya Sinwar and his brother in Khan Yunis; no injuries were reported in the air strikes. In Israel, rockets from Gaza hit 1 house in Ashdod and damaged 5 vehicles in Ashkelon; no injuries were reported. Israel’s defense minister Benny Gantz extended the state of emergency in Lydda for 48 hours. Israel arrested 1 Palestinian-Israeli imam Shaykh Kamal Khatib, the deputy leader of the northern faction of the Islamic Movement in Israel, saying he had made incendiary remarks about Israel’s attacks on al-Aqsa Mosque. 28 people were wounded in a subsequent protest in Kafr Kana where he was arrested, including many by Israeli live ammunition. 8 Palestinian-Israelis were arrested in Taiba and Qalansawe. 2 Jordanian citizens were arrested in Gilboa after having crossed from Jordan into Israel. (AJ, AJ, AJ, AJ, AP, CNN, HA, HA, NPR, NYT, PCHR, REU, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 5/16; PCHR 5/17; ALM 5/19; HA, PCHR 5/20; MEE 5/21; HA 5/25; NYT 5/26; AP 6/2; NYT 6/24)

Egypt opened the Rafah crossing 1 day earlier than planned to allow the passage of students and medical patients. 95 Palestinians were reported to have been evacuated to Egypt for treatment of injuries before the border officially reopened. (HA, REU 5/16)

2 Israeli settlers were killed and 150 were injured when a structurally unsound seating area collapsed in a synagogue in Givat Ze’ev. (AJ, AP, CNN, HA, REU 5/16)

The High Follow-Up Committee for Arab Citizens of Israel announced a general strike on 5/18 to protest attacks on members of its community. (HA 5/16)

PA president Mahmoud Abbas spoke to Dutch prime minister Mark Rutte about the Israeli escalation of violence in the Palestinian territories. (WAFA 5/16)

Haaretz reported that Israeli senior officials did not consider a ceasefire option at its latest security cabinet meeting. (HA 5/16)

Israeli defense minister Benny Gantz met with U.S. deputy assistant secretary for Israel and Palestinian affairs Hady Amr. U.S. president Joe Biden said in an Eid holiday speech that his “administration is going to continue to engage Palestinians and Israelis and other regional partners to work toward sustained calm.” Later, secretary of state Antony Blinken said that “the violence must end immediately.” Earlier in the day, Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu had reiterated that his government has no plans for a ceasefire, saying the attacks on Gaza “will take time.” (AJ, HA 5/16; HA 5/17)

Jordanian king Abdullah II said that Jordan has been involved in intense diplomacy with its allies in Europe and the U.S. to put pressure on Israel to stop its attacks on Gaza. (HA, REU 5/16)

28 U.S. Democratic senators, led by Jon Ossoff (D-GA), called for an immediate ceasefire “[t]o prevent any further loss of civilian life and to prevent further escalation of conflict in Israel and the Palestinian territories.” (HA, NYT 5/17)

At a UN security council (UNSC) meeting on Israel-Palestine, UN secretary-general António Guterres said that the situation was “utterly appalling,” calling for an immediate ceasefire. He said the UN is actively involved in facilitating a ceasefire. This was the 3d time in a week that the UNSC met about the situation and the 3d time the U.S. stalled any joint statement. PA foreign minister Riyad al-Maliki said that “[e]ach time Israel hears a foreign leader speak of its right to defend itself it is further emboldened to continue murdering entire families in their sleep.” (AJ, AP, HA, WAFA, WAFA 5/16; TOI 5/17)

The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation called for an immediate halt of Israeli attacks on Gaza and “systematic crimes” against Palestinians. Saudi Arabia also condemned Israel’s “fragrant violations” of Palestinian rights. PA foreign minister al-Maliki criticized the countries that had normalized relations with Israel, saying, “running towards this colonial Israeli system without achieving peace and ending the Israeli occupation of Arab and Palestinian lands represents support for the apartheid regime and participation in its crimes.” (AJ, AJ, AP, HA, REU, WAFA, WAFA 5/16)

Pope Francis, for the 2d Sunday in a row, denounced the escalation of violence in Israel and Palestine, saying that the death of children was a “sign that they don’t want to build the future but want to destroy it.” (HA 5/16; WAFA 5/17)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers raided Qarawat Bani Hassan before confronted by Palestinian residents. Israeli settlers attacked 1 Palestinian minor near Kisan, causing injuries. Elsewhere, Israeli settlers set fire to agricultural lands planted with olive trees in Jalud, causing extensive damage. Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinian protesters commemorating Nakba Day throughout the West Bank, killing 1 Palestinian in Hebron and injuring 450, including 27 in Hebron, 29 in Qalqilya, 12 in Ramallah, 18 in Nablus, 9 in Tulkarm, 6 in Jenin, 2 in Bethlehem, and 1 in Tubas using live ammunition. 13 Palestinians were arrested, including 4 during late-night raids in Tulkarm and 9 during protests near Jenin. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in Shaykh Jarrah, injuring 1 journalist and arresting 1. Israeli forces also violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in al-Tur, causing tear-gas related injuries and 1 arrest. 13 others were arrested during raids in Issawiyya, al-Tur, Silwan, and Sur Bahir. In Gaza, 17 Palestinians were killed, including 8 children, and dozens were injured, raising the comprehensive death toll since 5/10 from 136 to 153, including 41 children and 2 pregnant women. The casualties included: 10 members of the same family in an Israeli air strike in al-Shati refugee camp, including 8 children; 1 infant was found in the rubble of the house and was the only survivor of the attack; 2 in an air strike on a market in Gaza City; 1 in an air strike while driving north of Gaza City; 1 in a drone strike on agricultural lands near al-Bureij; 1, and 1 injured in an air strike on al-Bureij; 1 in an air strike while riding a motorbike in al-Maghazi; 1 Palestinian succumbed to wounds sustained in an air strike on a car wash al-Zawaideh. Israel also demolished al-Jalaa tower, a 12-story building in Gaza City hosting the offices of AP, Al Jazeera, and other international media outlets along with residential apartments; Israel claimed that it also housed Hamas and Islamic Jihad in Palestine intelligence offices, saying that made it a legitimate target; residents and workers were given 1 hour to evacuate the building. AP said their reporting capabilities in Gaza were significantly reduced while Al Jazeera called it a war crime and an act to stop reporting. Air strikes also demolished the home of senior Hamas official Khalil al-Hayya and severely damaged the 14-story tower al-Qahira and the 12-story tower al-Andalus in Gaza City. Shelling from land and sea also caused significant damage and injuries in Khan Yunis and Bayt Hanun. Egypt sent 10 ambulances to Gaza to pick up injured Palestinians for treatment at Egyptian hospitals. In Israel, 1 Israeli was killed by a rocket fired from Gaza in Ramat Gan, raising the Israeli death toll to 10. 6 buildings were also damaged in Ramat Gan. Rockets were also fired at Beersheba, Ashkelon, and Ashdod from Gaza, causing damage in Beersheba and Ashdod. Hundreds of Palestinian-Israelis protested in Jaffa over the Israeli police’s inability to protect them as violence has been escalating in the neighborhood and 1 minor was seriously injured by a firebomb on 5/14. 67 Palestinian-Israelis were reported arrested, including 52 in ‘Akka and 15 in Lydda. In Lebanon, hundreds of protesters gathered along the Blue Line to show solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza and Shaykh Jarrah. (AJ, AJ, AJ, AJ, AJ, AJ, AJ, AJ, AJ, AP, HA, HA, HA, HA, MEE, MEE, PCHR, REU, REU, REU, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 5/15; AP, AP, AP, AP, HA, MEE, PCHR, REU, TOI, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 5/16; AP 5/17; HA 5/18; PCHR 5/20; MEE 5/21; NYT 5/26; GDN 7/28)

There were major demonstrations in many cities worldwide in commemoration of Nakba Day and in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza and those threatened by eviction in Shaykh Jarrah. (DM, DW, NAT 5/15 BBC, GDN, WAFA 5/16)

U.S. president Joe Biden spoke with both Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu and PA president Mahmoud Abbas. It was the 1st time that President Biden and President Abbas have spoken since Biden took office in January. (HA, WAFA 5/15)

U.S. chair of the senate foreign relations committee Bob Menendez (D-NJ) said, after Israel demolished the building housing the offices of AP and Al Jazeera, that he was “deeply troubled by reports of Israeli military actions that resulted in the death of innocent civilians in Gaza as well as Israeli targeting of buildings housing international media outlets.” Menendez is known as 1 of the staunchest supports of Israel among the senate Democrats. Several House Democrats separately tweeted, “Apartheid states aren’t democracies,” in a reference to Israel. (AJ, AJ, HA, NYT 5/15)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers attacked 2 Palestinians in Ma’in, causing light injuries. Israeli settlers also set fire to a Palestinian-owned vehicle in Rujeib. Elsewhere, Israeli settlers threw stones at Palestinian vehicles traveling between Jenin and Nablus. Israeli settlers also attacked Palestinians in Burin, demolished parts of a house, and set fields on fire. Israeli forces shot and killed 1 Palestinian child during a late-night raid in Tubas and injured 1 other by running him over. Israeli forces also shot and killed 1 Palestinian during a late-night raid in al-Fawar refugee camp. Elsewhere, Israeli forces shot and killed 1 Palestinian at a checkpoint near Huwwara, claiming he had tried to attack 2 Israeli soldiers. Israeli forces also violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in Hebron, injuring 2, including 1 with live ammunition. Separately, Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in Yatta, injuring 1 with live ammunition and 2 with rubber-coated bullets. Israeli forces also violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in Bayt Umar, injuring 1 minor with live ammunition and 3 others with rubber-coated bullets. Meanwhile, Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinians protesting in Bethlehem, Harmala, al-Khadir, and Dayr Sharif, resulting in tear-gas related injuries. Israeli forces also violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in Beita, injuring 3 using rubber-coated bullets. Elsewhere, Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in Tulkarm, injuring 3 with live ammunition. 40 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in and around Hebron, al-Fawar refugee camp, Nablus, Tulkarm, Tubas, and Qalqilya. In East Jerusalem, 2 Israeli settlers attacked 1 Palestinian with a sharp tool, slicing her face as she was leaving the Haram al-Sharif compound. Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in al-Tur, injuring 1 with a rubber-coated bullet; others suffered tear-gas related injuries and 2 were arrested. 6 other Palestinians were arrested during house raids in the Old City, Jabal Mukabir, Silwan, and Shu‘fat. In Gaza, 34 Palestinians were killed, including 6 children, and dozens injured, raising the comprehensive death toll since 5/10 from 30 to 64, including 16 children. The casualties included: 4 in a drone strike on a car east of Bayt Lahiya; 8, including 3 children, in 3 air strikes on apartment buildings in Gaza City; 1 child in an air strike on a butcher in Gaza City; 6 in a drone strike on a car in Gaza city, including 3 inside the car and 3 passersby; 1, and 1 wounded, in another air strike on a vehicle in Gaza City; 1 in an air strike in Khan Yunis; 1 in an air strike on agricultural lands near Khuza‘a; 4, and 2 injured, in a drone strike on Nuseirat refugee camp; 2, and 1 child injured, in an air strike on a liquefied petroleum gas distribution vehicle in Khan Yunis; 2, and 3 wounded, including 1 child, in an air strike on a house in Khan Yunis; 2, and 2 wounded, all children, after a helicopter fired missiles at a gas station in al-Fukhari; and the body of 1 Palestinian was found in rubble near Bayt Hanun, it was assessed that he was killed in an air strike on 5/10; the body of 1 Palestinian was found near a mosque in Rafah, the Palestinian Centre for Human Rights said it was unclear if he had been killed by debris from an intercepted rocket or in an Israeli air strike. Hamas reported that the interior ministry and the passport office along with other government buildings had been hit by Israeli air strikes. Israeli air strikes also demolished 2 high-rise buildings, the 10-story al-Jawhara building, and the 14-story al-Shorouq building, which housed news outlets and other offices, and the headquarters of the interior ministry and UNRWA schools. In Israel, 1 Israeli soldier was killed and 2 injured from an anti-tank missile fired from Gaza and 1 child succumbed to injuries sustained in Sderot, raising the Israeli death toll to 7. Dozens of rockets were also fired at Israel from Gaza, most of them intercepted. A mob of Jewish-Israelis pulled 1 Palestinian-Israeli out of his car and beat him while tv cameras were rolling in Bat Yam; the man was said to be in serious condition. A mob of Jewish-Israelis also raided a number of Palestinian-owned businesses in Tel Aviv, causing severe damage. 1 Jewish-Israeli man was attacked by 5 Palestinian-Israelis in ‘Akka; he was said to be in serious condition. Jewish-Israelis also attacked a tent set up to mourn the death of 1 Palestinian-Israeli who was shot by a Jewish-Israeli on 5/10 in Lydda, throwing stones at the mourners. Elsewhere in Lydda, 1 Jewish-Israeli was shot and injured and 2 more were injured in stabbings, 21 Palestinian-Israelis were injured, including 1 by gunshot. Israeli police announced a nighttime curfew in Lydda from 8 p.m. to 4 a.m. 1 Palestinian-Israeli man was injured when rammed by a car­ and beaten near Or Akiva. 1 Palestinian-Israeli was lightly injured by a mob of Jewish-Israelis while driving in Tiberias. 1 Jewish-Israeli was injured in a stabbing incident in Tamra. A mob of Jewish-Israelis also attacked 1 Palestinian-Israeli in Haifa. (AJ, NYT 5/11; AJ, AJ, AJ, AJ, AP, AP, AP, AP, BBC, CNN, HA, HA, HA, NYT, NYT, PCHR, REU, REU, TOI, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 5/12; AP, CNN, HA, PCHR, WAFA, WAFA 5/13; PCHR 5/14; TOI 5/16; HA 5/18; WAFA 5/19; PCHR 5/20; MEE 5/21; HA, NYT 5/26; HA 5/27)

1 Palestinian prisoner suspended a 56-day-long hunger strike as Israel promised not to renew his administrative detention after 7/17. (WAFA 5/12)

PA president Mahmoud Abbas discussed the current situation with EU high representative Josep Borrell, King Abdullah II of Jordan, and Iraqi president Barham Salih. A White House statement also said that U.S. secretary of state Antony Blinken spoke with President Abbas and they discussed “the violence in Jerusalem, the West Bank and Gaza, and the Secretary expressed his condolences for the lives lost as a result. The Secretary condemned the rocket attacks and emphasized the need to de-escalate tensions and bring the current violence to an end.” (HA, WAFA 5/12)

At a security cabinet meeting, Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other ministers decided not to accept a potential ceasefire and continue its attack on Gaza for the time being. (HA 5/13)

Israeli president Reuven Rivlin condemned what he called a “pogrom” by “an Arab mob” on 5/11, despite the majority of the violence in Israel being perpetrated against Palestinian-Israelis. (HA 5/12)

Turkey said that its president Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and Russia’s president Vladimir Putin had discussed the situation in Jerusalem and Gaza, and that Turkey had called for international action against Israel. (AJ, AP, REU 5/12)

U.S. president Joe Biden said, during a press conference, that he believes that “Israel has a right to defend itself when you have thousands of rockets flying in your territory,” and that his “hope is that we’ll see this coming to conclusions sooner than later.” President Biden also spoke with Prime Minister Netanyahu, where he gave his “unwavering support for Israel’s security and for Israel’s legitimate right to defend itself and its people, while protecting civilians,” according to the readout. The Biden administration also dispatched deputy assistant secretary of state for Israel and Palestine Hady Amr to Israel for talks with Palestinian and Israeli officials. The White House said that senior officials have had more than 25 calls with officials from Israel, the PA, Qatar, Tunisia, Jordan, and Egypt about the situation. (HA 5/12; NYT 5/13)

25 house democrats signed a letter circulated by Marie Newman (D-IL) and Mark Pocan (D-WI) urging secretary of state Antony Blinken to condemn the planned evictions of Palestinian families from Shaykh Jarrah. (HA 5/13)

ICC prosecutor Fatou Bensouda said that she was following the situation in Gaza and Jerusalem with concern. (MEE, REU, WAFA 5/12)

The UN security council held a 2d meeting in 3 days to discuss the escalation of the conflict between Palestine and Israel. (TOI 5/12)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers attacked 2 Palestinians near Nablus by throwing stones and physically assaulting them, causing their hospitalization. Israeli forces shot and killed 1 Palestinian at a checkpoint in Za’atra and injured 1 other; Israeli forces claimed that 2 were in a car and refused to stop at the checkpoint. Israeli forces also violently dispersed protesters at a checkpoint north of Ramallah, injuring 9 Palestinians with rubber-coated bullets. Elsewhere, Israeli forces violently dispersed protesters at the Qalandia checkpoint, injuring 37 Palestinians using rubber-coated bullets. Israeli forces also violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in Jenin, injuring 1 with live ammunition while others suffered tear-gas related injuries. Meanwhile, Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinian protesters, injuring 2 using live ammunition. Israeli forces also violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in Tulkarm, injuring 1 with live ammunition; others suffered tear-gas related injuries. Separately, Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in Hebron, injuring 7 with live ammunition and 10 with rubber-coated bullets. Israeli forces also injured 1 with a tear gas canister in Bethlehem. Elsewhere, Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinian protesters at the Huwwara checkpoint, injuring 5 with rubber-coated bullets. 14 Palestinians were arrested, including 13 at checkpoints in Tulkarm, Huwwara, and Jenin, and 1 was arrested during a late-night raid in Jenin. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces violently dispersed a sit-in protest against evictions in Shaykh Jarrah, spraying skunk water at protesters and arresting 3 residents. 6 other Palestinians were arrested, including 4 at a checkpoint in Issawiyya and 2 during late-night raids in Silwan and al-Tur. In Gaza, 10 Palestinians, including 1 child, were killed in Israeli air strikes, raising the comprehensive death toll since 5/10 from 20 to 30, including 10 children. The casualties included: 2, and 2 injured in an air strike on a 7-story building in al-Shati camp; 6, and at least 8 injured in 3 air strikes on apartment buildings in Gaza City; and 2 in an air strike near a chicken farm southwest of Dayr al-Balah. Additionally, Israeli air strikes damaged or destroyed dozens of buildings, including 1 14-story residential and commercial building, the Hanadi Tower west of Gaza City, 1 ice cream factory south of Gaza City, 1 health clinic and police station in Bayt Lahiya, 1 large school in Dayr al-Balah. Hamas reported that Israeli air strikes had destroyed all police buildings in Gaza. In Israel, 5 were killed by rockets from Gaza, including 2 Palestinian citizens of Israel, who were killed by a rocket fired from Gaza near Lydda, and 2 Jewish-Israelis and 1 Indian national in Ashkelon and Tel Aviv. 1 rocket fired from Gaza also damaged an Israeli pipeline in Ashkelon, igniting a large oil fire. A state of emergency was also declared in Lydda after a synagogue and some 30 cars were set on fire as Jewish-Israelis and Palestinian citizens of Israel clashed. Israeli forces also violently dispersed Palestinian-Israelis in Lydda after a protest erupted following a funeral of 1 Palestinian citizen of Israel who was killed by a Jewish-Israeli on 5/10; 12 Palestinian-Israelis were injured by stun grenades and rubber-coated bullets. Clashes also ensued in Ramla and a synagogue, a marketplace, and a Muslim cemetery were set on fire. In Acre, 1 police station and 1 restaurant were set on fire. 19 Palestinian citizens of Israel were arrested after trash bins were set on fire and stones were thrown at Israeli police in Haifa. Israeli forces also violently dispersed Palestinian-Israeli protesters in Jaffa, arresting 3; 2 police officers were reportedly injured. Clashes between Jewish-Israelis and Palestinian-Israelis were also reported in Beersheba. Israeli forces said that the Iron Dome had intercepted 85-90% of around 850 rockets fired from Gaza since 5/10. (AJ 5/10; AJ, AJ, AX, CBS, HA, HA, MEE, MEMO, MEMO, NYT, PCHR, REU, REU, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 5/11; AJ, AJ, AP, AP, BBC, CNN, CNN, HA, HA, HA, JP, MEMO, PCHR, PCHR, REU, REU, TOI 5/12; HA 5/18; WAFA 5/19; PCHR 5/20; MEE 5/21; NYT 5/26)

PA president Mahmoud Abbas canceled Eid al-Fitr celebrations to mourn for the Palestinians killed by Israel in the last couple of days. (MEMO 5/12)

A Spokesperson for the U.S. national security advisor said chief of Palestinian affairs at the U.S. embassy in Israel George Noll had delivered a letter from U.S. president Joe Biden to PA president Mahmoud Abbas. The spokesperson would not say what the letter was about, saying it was part of the administrations outreach to “the Palestinian leadership.” (HILL, WAFA 5/11)

The Arab League secretary-general Ahmed Aboul Gheit said Israel was responsible for the escalation between Hamas and Israel, stating that “Israeli violations in Jerusalem . . . is what led to the ignition of the situation in this dangerous way.” Secretary-general Gheit’s comments came after a meeting of Arab League foreign secretaries discussing the situation. (AJ, REU 5/11)

Haaretz reported that Palestinian and Egyptian sources said that talks to end the escalation between Hamas and Israel had ended due to opposition from Islamic Jihad and Israel. Leader of Hamas Ismail Haniyeh said that the escalation was started by Israel and that Hamas is ready for “an escalation and ready for calm, on the condition that they end the aggression against al-Quds.” Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu said, “Hamas and Islamic Jihad have paid—and will pay—a heavy price for their aggression . . . It will take time. We’ll restore security for the citizens of Israel.” (AJ, HA, MEMO 5/12)

It was reported that the U.S. was delaying a UN security council (UNSC) statement addressing the Israeli aggression in Jerusalem, and escalation of the conflict between Hamas and Israel. A UNSC emergency meeting was called on 5/9 by Tunisia and 9 other countries. The state department spokesperson Ned Price said secretary of state Antony Blinken, national security advisor Jake Sullivan, and deputy secretary of state Wendy Sherman had talked to their Israeli counterparts and unnamed Palestinian officials. The White House spokesperson Jen Psaki said that President Joe Biden’s “support for Israel security, for its legitimate right to defend itself and its people is fundamental and will never waver . . . We condemn ongoing rocket attacks by Hamas and other terrorist groups, including against Jerusalem.” (HA, HA, REU 5/11; AP, HA 5/12)

The 57 members of the Organisation for Islamic Cooperation released a joint communiqué after an emergency meeting, calling Israeli attacks on the Haram al-Sharif compound “barbaric” and said the nations consider Israel’s attacks a “serious violation of international law.” (HA 5/11)

The U.S. treasury department sanctioned 7 Lebanese people for transferring $500 million on behalf of Hezbollah. (AJ, AP, REU 5/11)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces shot and killed 2 Palestinians and critically injured a 3d after claiming that the 3 had opened fire at Israeli soldiers at an Israeli military installation near Jenin; no Israeli was reported injured. Israeli forces also assaulted Palestinian journalists trying to cover the incident and smashed 1 camera. Elsewhere, Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in Bayt Dajan, injuring 1 with live ammunition; others suffered tear-gas related injuries. Israeli forces also raided the home of an alleged attacker in Turmus ‘Ayya and took measurements for a punitive demolition. 6 Palestinians were arrested, including 2 during late-night raids in and around Aida refugee camp and al-‘Arub refugee camp, and 4 at checkpoints in Qalandia and Nablus. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces attacked Palestinians at the Haram al-Sharif compound, wounding 205 Palestinians, including 88 who were hospitalized and 3 who lost eyes; 17 Israeli police officers were also reported injured. Israeli forces threw stun grenades inside of al-Aqsa Mosque. 17 Palestinians were arrested in the Old City and Shaykh Jarrah. In Gaza, Israel said incendiary balloons from Gaza had started 7 fires in Israel. (AA, AJ, AJ, AJ, AP, AP, HA, HA, HA, MEE, NYT, REU, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 5/7; AJ, MEE, PCHR 5/8; HA 5/10; PCHR 5/11; MEE 5/21; HA 5/31)

The High Follow-up Committee for Arab Citizens of Israel called on Palestinians in Israel to support Palestinians in East Jerusalem after the Israeli attacks on worshipers at the Haram al-Sharif compound and on protesters in Shaykh Jarrah. (MEMO, WAFA 5/8)

The Kahanist lawmaker Itamar Ben-Gvir from the Otzma Jehudit (Jewish Power) party closed his makeshift office on the opposite side of the street from where Palestinians have been eating iftar meals in protest over Israeli threats of evicting Palestinian families in Shaykh Jarrah. Ben-Gvir said he closed the office after Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu had requested he do so. (HA 5/7)

Palestinians reported that information shared about Shaykh Jarrah had been censored by social media companies like Instagram and Twitter and in some instances, Palestinian accounts sharing information about Shaykh Jarrah had been closed by the companies. Instagram and Twitter later blamed technical errors for the problem. (AJ, MEE 5/7; HA 5/10; AJ 5/11; HUFF 5/12)

PA president Mahmoud Abbas condemned the Israeli aggression in Jerusalem, saying he has called on the PA ambassador to the UN to request an emergency session at the UN security council. (WAFA 5/7)

A Saudi official confirmed that Iran and Saudi Arabia are in direct talks to resolve the issues between the 2 countries. (HA 5/7; MEMO 5/8)

The U.S. issued a statement saying that the country “is extremely concerned about ongoing confrontations in Jerusalem, including the Haram al-Sharif/Temple Mount and in Sheikh Jarrah, which have reportedly resulted in scores of injured people . . . It is absolutely critical that all sides exercise restraint, refrain from provocative actions and rhetoric, and preserve the historic status quo on the Haram al-Sharif/Temple Mount—in word and in practice.” The UN also warned Israel that forced evictions of Palestinians in East Jerusalem could amount to war crimes. (AJ 5/7; HA, WAFA 5/8)

U.S. senators Bernie Sanders (D-VT), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), and Chris Murphy (D-CT) and representatives Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY), Gregory Meeks (D-NY), Andy Levin (D-MI), Pramila Jayapal (D-WA), and Ayanna Pressley (D-MA) called on Israel not to evict Palestinians from their homes in Shaykh Jarrah. Representatives Marie Newman (D-IL) and Mark Pocan (D-WI) circulated a letter in congress calling on secretary of state Antony Blinken to pressure Israel not to move forward with the eviction and to stop home demolitions in al-Bustan. (HA, MEE 5/7; HA 5/8; WAFA 5/9)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers set up a tent on Palestinian-owned land in Qusra. Israeli settlers also razed 15 dunams (3.7 acres) of agricultural land planted with wheat in Jalud. Israeli forces seized 1 tent and 1 electric generator in Masafer Yatta. Israeli forces also demolished 1 house near Bethlehem. Elsewhere, Israeli forces delivered a stop-work order for a house in Susiya. 24 Palestinians were arrested during raids in and around Tuqu‘, Bayt Umar, Dayr Jarir, Ramallah, Jenin, and Qabatiya; among the arrested were at least 4 prominent members of Palestinian political parties, including at least 1 who was running in the upcoming Palestinian elections. In East Jerusalem, 4 Palestinians were arrested during raids in al-Tur and Silwan. (AJ, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 4/12; PCHR, PCHR 4/15)

In a joint statement by a number of PLO parties, the members said that “[t]here will be no elections without Jerusalem, and Israel possesses no veto to this.” (WAFA 4/12; TOI 4/13)

A PA court sentenced 1 Palestinian man to life in prison for treason against Palestine. (WAFA 4/12)

Israel allowed 3.5 tons of mail to enter the West Bank from Jordan after having stalled it in Jordan since 2018. (WAFA 4/12)

Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu approved delivery of extra water rations from the Jordan River to Jordan almost a month after the request was made. It had been reported that Prime Minister Netanyahu was stalling the request because of his personal deteriorating relationship with Jordanian king Abdullah II. It was also reported that U.S. secretary of state Antony Blinken had asked Israel to send the extra water to Jordan. Prime Minister Netanyahu also held a joint press conference with U.S. secretary of defense Lloyd J. Austin III in Jerusalem. During the conference, which was held 1 day after Israel attacked the Iranian Natanz nuclear site, Netanyahu called the Iranian government a “fanatical regime.” When asked about the attack on the nuclear site, Netanyahu did not say whether it was an Israeli operation but did say, “[m]y policy as prime minister of Israel is clear: I will never allow Iran to obtain the nuclear capability to carry out its genocidal goal of eliminating Israel.” (AJ, HA 4/12)

The Lebanese outgoing minister of public works Michel Najjar signed a decree that extended Lebanon’s maritime border claim by 550 square miles. The decree still needs the approval of the defense minister, prime minister, and president before it becomes valid. (AJ, AP, HA, REU 4/12; REU 4/13; REU 4/15)

The EU imposed sanctions on 8 Iranian officials in response to the crackdown on protests in November 2019, when some 1,500 people were reportedly killed by Iranian forces. Iran denies that the death toll was that high. The UN said at least 304 people were killed. The EU is in the process of mediating between the U.S. and Iran to get the U.S. to rejoin the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. (AJ, ALM, HA, REU 4/12; ALM 4/13)

In the West Bank, 1 Israeli settler struck and killed 1 Palestinian woman with their car near al-Samu’; it was unclear if the settler had rammed the woman intentionally. Israeli settlers with military escort raided Kafr Haris and Sabastiyya, closing off areas of both towns for Palestinians. Israeli forces issued demolition orders against 64 Palestinian-owned structures in Ras al-Ahmar. Israeli forces also delivered demolition notices for 2 residential structures and 2 agricultural structures in al-Jiftlik. 19 Palestinians were arrested during raids in and around Ras Karkar, Dayr Jarir, Bayt Umar, Yatta, Tulkarm, Jenin, and Tubas. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces demolished 1 car repair shop, 1 garage, 2 rooms in Issawiyya, and seized vending stalls near the Haram al-Sharif compound. 1 Palestinian was arrested during a house raid in Ras Khamis. Off the coast of Gaza, Israeli naval forces opened fire at Palestinian fishermen within 3 nautical miles west of Bayt Lahiya; no injuries were reported. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 4/7; PCHR, WAFA 4/8)

Hamas declared a total lockdown of Gaza to curb the COVID-19 virus, which has been spreading at unprecedented levels. The lockdown will last until the morning of 4/16. Only food vendors and pharmacies will be allowed to remain open. In the 24 hours before the announcement, 6 people had succumbed to the virus in Gaza and 38 percent of tests were positive. 150 people were receiving care for the illness at a hospital. (HA 4/7)

An Israeli planning commission approved 540 new settlement units in Har Homa in East Jerusalem between the city and Bethlehem. The Jerusalem District Planning Committee will need to give the final approval to 540 units on 4/21. The PA condemned the decision. (HA, WAFA 4/7; MEMO, TOI 4/8)

1 Palestinian prisoner in administrative detention suspended his 47-day-long hunger strike after being promised that Israel would set a date for his release. (WAFA 4/7)

Palestinian human rights activist Issa Amro was acquitted of all charges in a Palestinian court. He had been charged with insulting higher authorities, causing public strife, and disturbing public order after writing criticism about the PA. (Twitter 4/7; Twitter 4/8)

Right-wing Israeli politician and leader of HaTzionut HaDatit (Religious Zionist Party) Bezalel Smotrich wrote on Twitter, “I heard that after Rabbi Shmuel Eliyahu, may he live a long life, said that a true Muslim must know that the Land of Israel belongs to the Jewish People, Ahmad Tibi opened his mouth against him. So, Ahmad, a true Muslim must know that the Land of Israel belongs to the Jewish people, and over time Arabs like you, who do not recognize that, will not remain here. Rabbi Shmuel and tens of thousands of his students, including us, will make sure that happens.” Smotrich’s comments about Palestinian-Israeli politician Ahmad Tibi drew condemnation from pro-Israel organizations in the U.S., including the Anti-Defamation League and AIPAC offshoot Democratic Majority for Israel. (HA, HA 4/7)

Jordanian king Abdullah II said that “the sedition has been buried,” in reference to the alleged plot against him from 4/3, where his half-brother Prince Hamzah bin Hussein was placed under house arrest for steering the plot. The Jordanian government has banned all national outlets from covering the issue. U.S. president Joe Biden assured Abdullah II of his support in a call. (AJ, AP, REU 4/6; AJ, AP, HA, HA, REU 4/7)

The U.S. announced that it will resume providing aid to the UNRWA, which has been cut since 2018. In its 1st aid package, the U.S. will provide $150 million to the UNRWA, $75 million in economic and development assistance to the West Bank and Gaza, and $10 million for “peacebuilding programs” through the USAID. The U.S. also sent $15 million in assistance to the West Bank and Gaza to help with their COVID-19 response in March. The Israeli ambassador to the U.S. Gilad Erdan condemned the U.S. decision to resume aid to UNRWA, saying that Palestinian refugees are not “real” refugees. (AJ, ALM, AX, HA, NYT, REU, USAID, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 4/7; GDN, WAFA, WAFA 4/8; WAFA 4/12)

The U.S. also said it was ready to lift “sanctions that are inconsistent with the JCPOA [Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action]” on Iran. The announcement came as indirect talks about the U.S. rejoining the Iran nuclear deal, brokered by the EU, were underway in Vienna. (HA 4/8)

Axios reported that the U.S. has asked Israel to provide the water to Jordan it requested last month, but that Israel is said to withholding due to prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s personal feud with King Abdullah II, which has been growing in recent months and straining the 2 countries’ relationship. (AX 4/7)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers set up tents on Palestinian-owned land in Taqqua and 2 mobile homes in Asira. Israeli forces demolished barracks and construction materials in Jinsafut. 11 Palestinians were arrested during raids in and around Kaubar, Jalazun refugee camp, al-Izzariya, Qalandia, Sa‘ir, and Jenin. In East Jerusalem, 3 Palestinians were arrested during a raid in Issawiyya. Off the coast of Gaza, Israeli naval forces opened fire at Palestinian fishermen within 3 nautical miles west of Gaza City; no injuries were reported. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 4/5; PCHR 4/8)

The PA sent letters to members of the Quartet for Middle East Peace, urging them to pressure Israel to allow East Jerusalemites to partake in the upcoming elections. (WAFA 4/5)

PA president Mahmoud Abbas went to Germany for a medical checkup. President Abbas was later said to be in good health. (AJ, AP, HA 4/5; AJ, AP, WAFA 4/7; WAFA 4/8)

The trial against Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu began after many delays. Prime Minister Netanyahu is charged with fraud, bribery, and breach of trust. Netanyahu’s trial began on the same day as Israeli president Reuven Rivlin started consulting with Israeli party leaders to determine who will go 1st at trying to form a government. (AJ, ALM, AP, HA, HA, NYT, REU, REU 4/5; HA 4/6)

The Jerusalem Post reported that the pharmaceutical company Pfizer has halted shipments of 700,000 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine to Israel because the country owes the company payment for 2.5 million doses of vaccines already delivered. Israel made a deal with the company, allowing them to use more collected data by the Israeli health system, and paid more per dose than any other country. (JP 4/5)

Former Jordanian crown prince Prince Hamzah bin Hussein, who was put under house arrest on 4/3, said in a voice recording that he will not stay silent, thus disobeying the Jordanian army’s orders not to communicate with anyone. Prince Hamzah is accused of being part of a plot against his half-brother King Abdullah II. Later in the day, Prince Hamzah was said to have pledged allegiance to King Abdullah in a letter after talking to his and Abdullah II’s uncle Prince Hassan. (AJ, AJ, ALM, AP, AX, HA, HA, REU 4/5; HA 4/6)

In the West Bank, Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu, accompanied by Israeli settlers, toured Susiya, closing off the town and surrounding area to Palestinians. Israeli authorities approved seizure of a tract of Palestinian-owned land in Husan and Nahalin for settlement expansion. Israeli forces shot and injured 1 Palestinian during a raid in Hizma. Israeli forces also assaulted 1 Palestinian in Kafr Haris; Israeli forces said they thought the man intended to stab someone in a nearby settlement but did not arrest him after talking to his employer who confirmed he was waiting to get picked up. Elsewhere, Israeli forces raided Qaryut, leading to tear-gas related injuries and 1 Palestinian Red Crescent vehicle was vandalized by Israeli forces. 11 Palestinians were arrested, including 10 during raids in and around Yatta, Bayt Umar, Tuqu‘, Marda, and Hizma; 1 was arrested at a checkpoint south of Jenin. In East Jerusalem, 11 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in al-Tur, Silwan, Shu‘fat, and Issawiyya. Off the coast of Gaza, Israeli naval forces opened fire at Palestinian fishermen within 3 nautical miles west of Bayt Lahiya; no injuries were reported. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire at agricultural lands east of al-Qarara and north of Bayt Hanun; no injuries were reported. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 3/14; PCHR 3/18)

Jamila al-Shanti became the 1st woman to gain a seat on the 15-member Hamas politburo. (ALM 3/14)

Palestinian refugees in ‘Ayn al-Hilweh refugee camp in Lebanon protested outside UNRWA offices against unaffordable food prices. (MEMO 3/15)

Kosovo opened its embassy to Israel in Jerusalem. Kosovo promised to open an embassy in Jerusalem as part of a normalization agreement between the U.S., Israel, and Kosovo on 9/4/2020, where the latter received financial incentives and recognition of the country. The PA and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation denounced Kosovo’s decision. (AJ, AP, HA, HILL, REU 3/14; ALM, WAFA, WAFA 3/15; WAFA 3/18)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers with military escort toured shines in Kafr Haris and Sabastiyya, closing the areas to Palestinians. Israeli forces arrested 5 Palestinian children aged 8-12 in al-Rakiz near an Israeli settlement outpost; a video shows that the children were foraging vegetables when Israeli settlers started chasing them, leading to the Israeli forces arresting them. Israeli forces also demolished Palestinian-owned shops near Nablus, leading to confrontations with Palestinians, and delivered a demolition notice for a house under construction in Wadi Hummus in Area B. 9 Palestinians were arrested during raids in and around al-Khadir, Bayt Fajjar, Aida refugee camp, Jenin, and Qalqilya. In East Jerusalem, 66 Israeli settlers toured the Haram al-Sharif compound. Israeli forces arrested the former Mufti of Jerusalem Shaykh Ikrima Sabri at his home. Off the coast of Gaza, Israeli naval forces opened fire and sprayed water at Palestinian fishermen within 6 nautical miles west of Gaza, causing damage to 1 boat; no injuries were reported. In Gaza, Israeli forces made incursions and leveled land east of al-Bureij and Dayr Balah. (AJ, HA, JP, MEE, TOI, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 3/10; AJ, AP, MEE, PCHR, WAFA 3/11; WAFA 3/12; NBC 3/13; HA 3/14)

Mohammad Dahlan, a political rival of PA president Mahmoud Abbas, said the UAE would send another 40,000 doses of the Sputnik V vaccine to Gaza. The UAE had previously sent 20,000 doses to Gaza in February. Dahlan, who is an advisor to the UAE crown price Mohammed bin Zayed, said the vaccines would arrive on 3/11. (TOI, TOI 3/10)

Yahya Sinwar won an internal Gazan election to retain his position as political leader of Hamas in Gaza. Sinwar narrowly defeated Nizar Awadallah, a founder of Hamas. Awadallah is said to represent the more conservative wing of Hamas. (AP 3/9; AJ, ALM, AP, HA, REU, TOI 3/10; HA 3/11)

An investigation by the Fake Reporter project showed that many of the 5,000 followers of Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s Arabic language Facebook page were fake. On 2/1, Prime Minister Netanyahu launched an Arabic language Facebook page as part of his push to convince parts of the Palestinian-Israeli population to vote for him in the upcoming Israeli elections, but some 20% of the surveyed followers were reported to be fake. (HA 3/10)

The Israeli Museum for Islamic Art canceled plans to sell 268 items after the Al Thani Collection promised to provide sponsorship to the museum for 10 years. (AJ, AP 3/10)

An Iranian container ship was hit by an explosion said to be from an explosive device while in the Mediterranean. Iran later said Israel was behind the attack. Israeli officials denied commenting on Israeli involvement. (AJ, REU 3/12; HA, REU 3/13; HA 3/15)

In the West Bank, 5 Palestinians were arrested during raids in and around Qalandia refugee camp, Hizma, Dahariyya, and Jenin. Off the coast of Gaza, 3 Palestinian fishermen were killed in an explosion northwest of Khan Yunis; there were conflicting narratives about how the explosion happened with reports of an Israeli naval attack and of a missile fired from Gaza. Israel denied responsibility and the interior ministry in Gaza said it would investigate the incident; the investigation concluded on 3/11 with the government saying an Israeli drone laden with explosive was caught in a fishermen’s net, killing the 3 fishermen. the Al Mezan Center for Human Rights had claimed that it was a militant faction from Gaza who was responsible. Israeli naval forces had earlier in the day opened fire at Palestinian fishermen within 3 nautical miles west of Gaza city, causing damage to 1 boat. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire at Palestinian herders east of Khan Yunis; no injuries were reported. (AJ, HA, PCHR, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 3/7; HA 3/9; ALM, HA, PCHR, REU 3/11)

1 Palestinian man was sentenced to 2 years in prison, based on a plea bargain, by an Israeli military judge for not preventing an attack on an Israeli settler and for being a member of the PFLP. In the sentencing, the judge said a plea bargain had been reached, reducing the sentence because several Palestinians had been tortured during the interrogation related to the case. (TOI 3/7; HA 3/8)

According to Axios, PA civil affairs minister Hussein al-Sheikh sent a letter to the U.S. deputy assistant secretary of state for Israel-Palestine Hady Amr asking for U.S. support in the upcoming Palestinian elections and saying that Hamas has committed itself to nonviolence and the PLO parameters for a 2-state solution. Hamas has yet to publicly confirm Civil Affairs Minister al-Sheikh’s statement. (AX 3/10)

PA foreign minister Riyad al-Maliki said he will travel to the Hague to meet with ICC officials to discuss the investigations into possible war crimes committed by Israel. (WAFA 3/7)

Meretz (Vigor) leader Nitzan Horowitz said that Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Israeli settlers were responsible for the ICC investigation, drawing ire from the Israeli right. Several right-wing leaders said they would not sit in a coalition with Meretz based on those statements. Horowitz said the ICC investigation was a result of “unbridled settlement” and Israeli refusal to engage in negotiations with Palestinians. (HA, HA 3/7)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers vandalized 1 Palestinian-owned agricultural structure in Kafr al-Dik. Israeli forces delivered demolition orders for 7 Palestinian-owned homes in Ma‘in. 17 Palestinians were arrested during raids in and around al-Khadir, Husan, Hebron, Nablus, Tulkarm, Abu Dis, ‘Azun, Beita, Ramallah, al-Bireh, Sabastiyya, and Jenin refugee camp. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces seized, for a 2d time, tents sheltering a family whose house was demolished in Issawiyya. 11 Palestinians were arrested during raids in Issawiyya, Shu‘fat refugee camp, and al-Tur; confrontations erupted during the raids in Issawiyya, leading to tear-gas related injuries and damage to property. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire at agricultural lands east of Dayr al-Balah; no injuries were reported. (PCHR, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 3/4; PCHR 3/11)

Israeli authorities allowed changes to the structure of al-Ibrahimi Mosque, allowing the construction of an elevator to the designated Jewish area of the mosque. (WAFA 3/4)

PA president Mahmoud Abbas extended the COVID-19-related state of emergency for another 30 days. (WAFA 3/4)

According to Haaretz reporting, the Shin Bet has been threatening some Palestinian activists with administrative detention if they run in the Palestinian Legislative Council elections. Haaretz confirmed that at least 1 Palestinian activist was arrested and put in administrative detention for 4 months after announcing that he would run in the elections. (HA 3/4)

Danish prime minister Mette Frederiksen and Austrian chancellor Sebastian Kurz met with Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem to discuss a joint COVID-19 plan. Prime Minister Frederiksen had, prior to the trip, praised Israel’s vaccination campaign and said that Denmark is considering opening a vaccine factory with and/or in Israel, leading her own left-wing coalition to denounce her trip. The EU expressed dismay at the 2 European leaders’ trip, saying that cooperation on COVID-19 response was an EU issue 1st and foremost. (POL, POL 3/1; GDN, HA, REU 3/2; GDN, POL 3/3; AP, DR.DK, HA, POL, REU, TOI 3/4)

U.S. vice president Kamala Harris spoke with Prime Minister Netanyahu to discuss the ICC investigation into Israel. Vice President Harris expressed support for the normalization deals between Israel, the U.S., and several Arab and African countries during the Trump administration. (REU 3/4; AJ, HA, TOI 3/5)

Israeli defense minister Benny Gantz told FOX News that Israel is constantly updating preparations to strike Iran. Defense Minister Gantz also said that Hezbollah has hundreds of thousands of missiles. (AP, AJ, FOX, HA 3/5)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers smashed the windows of 3 Palestinian houses and 2 vehicles in Huwwara. Israeli forces distributed notices to Palestinians in Yatta, declaring a large area east of the city Israeli state land. 6 Palestinians were arrested during raids in al-Fawar refugee camp, Birzeit, Nablus, Jenin refugee camp, and Ya‘bad; 5 Palestinians were injured during confrontations with Israeli forces spawning from the raids in Jenin and al-Fawar refugee camp, including 1 by live ammunition, 2 by glass shards, and 2 by rubber-coated bullets. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces demolished 1 Palestinian-owned house and 3 shops in Shu‘fat refugee camp. 2 Palestinians were arrested during raids in Jabal Mukabir. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire at agricultural lands east of Abasan, Khuza‘a, al-Shuka, and al-Qarara; no injuries were reported. In Israel, Israelis attacked a Palestinian news crew working for Anadolu news agency in West Jerusalem, vandalizing their car. (HA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 3/3; PCHR 3/4)

ICC chief prosecutor Fatou Bensouda announced that the ICC will start a formal investigation into war crimes committed in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and Gaza. On 2/5, the ICC judges decided that the ICC does have jurisdiction in the occupied territories. Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu called the opening of a formal investigation “the essence of Antisemitism.” Both the PA and Hamas welcomed the investigation. Many human rights organizations likewise lauded the decision to investigate. The U.S. state department released a statement saying that the U.S. “opposes the ICC investigation into the Palestinian situation.” In the 1st stage of the investigation, Israel and the Palestinian parties have 30 days to inform the court if they will investigate alleged criminals themselves. (AJ, AP, BBC, DOS, GDN, HA, HA, HA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 3/3; AHQ, AJ, AP, HA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 3/4)

Israeli minister of environmental protection Gila Gamliel said Iran was behind an oil spill in the Mediterranean in what she described as “environmental terrorism.” According to Haaretz, Israeli military and intelligence agencies were caught by surprise by Environmental Protection Minister Gamliel’s announcement. The Israeli defense ministry later said it had found no evidence of Gamliel’s claim. (AP, HA, REU 3/3; AP, GDN, HA, TOI 3/4)

1 U.S. contractor died of a heart of attack during an attack on the ‘Ayn al-Asad air base in Iraq. At least 10 missiles were fired at the base. (AJ, AJ, AP, HA 3/3; HA 3/4)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces leveled land near Abu Dis to expand nearby settlements. 15 Palestinians were arrested, including 12 during a raid in and around Jenin, Tubas, Hizma, Bethlehem, Harmala, Bayt Umar, and al-‘Arub refugee camp, and 3 Palestinians were arrested at a checkpoint near Hebron. In East Jerusalem, 2 Palestinians were arrested in al-Tur and Shu‘fat refugee camp. Off the coast of Gaza, Israeli naval forces opened fire at Palestinian fishermen within 4 nautical miles west of Bayt Lahiya; no injuries were reported. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire at agricultural lands east of Dayr al-Balah and al-Bureij; no injuries were reported. (WAFA, WAFA 2/23; PCHR 2/25)

In a report, Forensic Architecture concluded that a Palestinian man Ahmed Erekat was killed by Israeli forces in an “extrajudicial execution” on 7/23/2020. The Forensic Architecture report stated that Erekat was shot and killed while not posing a threat to Israeli forces and that the forces had prevented him from getting medical attention after he was shot. Israel claims that Erekat intended to ram Israeli forces at a checkpoint, but the report states that he did not accelerate his car while approaching the checkpoint, that he kept a low speed of 9.3 miles per hour, and that he held his arms in the air after exiting his vehicle after the accident. (GDN 2/23; +972, AJ, MDW 2/24; AP, HA 2/26)

Israel announced that it will share COVID-19 vaccination doses with Guatemala, Honduras, the Czech Republic, and Hungary, all countries that have enhanced ties to Israel in the last couple of years. Israel has been widely criticized for refusing to provide vaccines to Palestinians in the occupied territories, including by U.S. senator Bernie Sanders (D-VT), who said it was “outrageous that [Israeli prime minister Benjamin] Netanyahu would use spare vaccines to reward his foreign allies while so many Palestinians in the occupied territories are still waiting.” The PA foreign minister Riyad al-Maliki called Israel’s decision immoral. (AP, HA, REU 2/23; AP, NYT, 2/24; AJ, AJ, AP, HA, WAFA, WAFA 2/25; WAFA 2/28)

The World Bank threatened to suspend its financing of the COVID-19 vaccine campaign in Lebanon after reports that the vaccines had been given to politicians rather than people who should be 1st in line for a vaccine, such as health workers and the elderly. (AP 2/22)

U.S. state department officials attended a meeting at the Ad Hoc Liaison Committee. At the meeting, PA prime minister Mohammed Shtayyeh welcomed the U.S. delegation and said that Israel was systematically destroying the possibility of a 2-state solution. (AP, WAFA 2/23)

6 Jewish American organizations wrote a letter to the new secretary of homeland security Alejandro Mayorkas, urging him to reverse the Trump administration’s policy change of labeling products made in West Bank settlements “made in Israel.” (J Street 2/23; HA, HUFF 2/24)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces seized 12 residential tents in Khirbet Humsa; this marked the 4th time Israeli forces seized and demolished structures in the bedouin community this month. Israeli forces also demolished 1 house under construction in Tuqu‘ and 2 agricultural structures in al-Khadir. 19 Palestinians were arrested during raids in and around Nablus, Qabatiya, Jenin refugee camp, Anabta, Hizma, Qalandia refugee camp, Bethlehem, Jericho, and Hebron; clashes erupted during the raid in Qalandia, leading to tear-gas related injuries. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces demolished a 2-story apartment building in Issawiyya, displacing 4 families consisting of 17 members, including 12 children; according to 1 of the Palestinians living in the building, a Waqf guard who was a Shin Bet coordinator had told him 6 months prior that “there’s a 90 percent chance that your house will be demolished.” Israeli forces also demolished 2 Palestinian-owned shops in Sur Bahir. Israel also banned 1 Palestinian from al-Tur, where he lives, for 2 weeks. 2 Palestinians were arrested during a late-night raid in Kafr ‘Aqab; clashes erupted during the raid, leading to tear-gas related injuries. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire at Palestinian farmers east of Khan Yunis; no injuries were reported. Off the coast of Gaza, Israeli naval forces sank 1 Palestinian fishing boat after opening fire at Palestinian fishermen 6 nautical miles northwest of Khan Yunis; no injuries were reported. (HA, TOI, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 2/22; HA, PCHR 2/25)

In Gaza, health workers began inoculating Palestinians with the Sputnik V vaccine provided by the UAE and the PA. (AJ, AP 2/22)

The World Bank said that the PA faces a funding gap of $30 million to secure the needed COVID-19 doses for a successful vaccination campaign in the West Bank and Gaza. The World Bank called on other countries to donate to shrink the gap. (AJ, HA 2/22)

The court overseeing Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s corruption trial said the start of the evidentiary stage will be delayed until 4/5, after the Israeli elections. (AP 2/23)

Axios reported that U.S. secretary of state Antony Blinken asked his Israeli counterpart Gabi Ashkenazi to facilitate the transfer of more COVID-19 vaccines to the West Bank and Gaza. (AX, TOI 2/23; HA 2/24)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers tried to abduct 1 Palestinian man near Husan but ended up robbing him of NIS 25,000 ($7,600), the Palestinian man claimed. Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinians protesting in Bayt Dajan and Kafr Qaddum, leading to tear-gas related injuries; 1 Palestinian was hit by a sponge grenade during the protest in Kafr Qaddum. 3 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in Jenin and Qalqilya. In East Jerusalem, 2 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in al-Tur. Off the coast of Gaza, Israeli naval forces opened fire at Palestinian fishermen within 3 nautical miles west of Bayt Lahiya; no injuries were reported. (WAFA 2/19; WAFA 2/20; PCHR 2/25)

Israel released the body of 1 Palestinian prisoner who died of a heart attack in an Israeli prison on 9/2/2020 to his family. (WAFA 2/19)

The PA said that Israel had agreed to vaccinate some 100,000 Palestinian workers from the West Bank who regularly travel to Israel for work. Israeli officials later said that it had not decided whether it would vaccinate the Palestinian workers, but it would discuss the issue. (HA, WAFA 2/19; HA 2/22)

In a statement released by Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu, he announced that the president of Equatorial Guinea, Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, assured him that he would move the country’s capital to Jerusalem from Herzliya. The statement did not say when the move would happen. (AP, HA 2/19)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers and Israeli forces attacked Palestinian journalists filming in the vicinity of the Ariel settlement. Israeli settlers also began construction on a tract of land in ‘Ayn Bus. Israeli forces seized and demolished residential tents in Khirbet Humsa provided by humanitarian agencies to displaced residents after Israeli forces demolished and confiscated and demolished 46 residential structures on 2/1 and 2/3. Israeli forces also demolished 1 water well in al-Mughayyir and 2 residential structures in Khirbet Yarza. Elsewhere, Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinian protesters demonstrating against stop-work orders delivered in al-Twana, leading to tear-gas related injuries. Israeli forces also shot and injured 1 Palestinian with live ammunition during a late-night raid near Jenin. Meanwhile, Israeli forces shot and injured 1 Palestinian trying to enter Israel for work near the separation barrier in Barta‘a. 14 Palestinians were arrested, including 13 during late-night raids in and around Jalazun refugee camp, Hebron, Nablus, Qabatiya, and al-Bireh, and 1 was arrested at a checkpoint near Nablus. In East Jerusalem, 4 Palestinian citizens of Israel were arrested at the Haram al-Sharif compound. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire on Palestinian famers east of Gaza City and Khan Yunis; no injuries were reported. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 2/8; CNN 2/10 PCHR 2/11)

PA and Hamas officials and members of 12 other Palestinian factions met in Cairo to discuss reconciliation and the Palestinian elections. (AJ, REU, WAFA, WAFA 2/8)

A Palestinian court in Nablus sentenced 1 Palestinian man to 5 years in prison for selling Israeli settlement products. (WAFA 2/8)

Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu pleaded not guilty in response to the corruption charges against him in an Israeli court. Prime Minister Netanyahu was forced to appear in court but left after 30 minutes as the judges excused his absence. (REU 2/7; AJ, AP, AX, CBS, CNN, HA, WP 2/8)

The U.S. said it will rejoin the UN Human Rights Council as an observer after the Donald Trump administration left the UN body, citing anti-Israel bias in 2018. The Biden administration wants to rejoin as a full member at an unset date. (NYT 2/7; TOI 2/8)

In an interview with CNN, U.S. secretary of state Antony Blinken said he applauded the normalization deals between Israel, the U.S., the UAE, Bahrain, Morocco, and Sudan, and said that peace between Palestine and Israel is far away, saying the 2 need to engage in peace before the U.S. can get involved. Secretary Blinken also said the Biden administration supported a 2-state solution but when asked about whether a Palestinian state would have East Jerusalem as its capital, he said it was part of final status issues, despite saying the U.S. considers Israel’s capital Jerusalem. Former secretary of state John Kerry said the U.S. supports East Jerusalem as a future capital of Palestine during the Barack Obama administration. Lastly, Secretary Blinken said that the Biden administration would consider supporting the return of the Golan Heights to Syria if Bashar al-Asad was no longer in power. (HA, REU, State Department 2/8; HA 2/9; AJ 2/11)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers and Israeli forces harassed and threatened a family of Palestinian citizens of Israel who were picnicking near Jibiya to leave the area. Israeli settlers also assaulted Palestinian herders near al-Twana, forcing them to leave their livestock. Israeli forces injured 3 Palestinians during clashes at a raid in Jenin, including 2 who were shot with rubber-coated bullets and 1 who was run over by a military vehicle. Israeli forces also violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in Kafr Qaddum, injuring 5 with rubber-coated bullets; others suffered tear-gas related injuries. Elsewhere, Israeli forces violently dispersed a tree planting event in Bidya, causing injuries. Israeli forces also clashed with Palestinians after establishing a checkpoint near Bayt Umar, leading to tear-gas related injuries. 1 Palestinian was arrested during a late-night raid in Hebron. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces clashed with Palestinians during an Israeli raid in al-Tur. In Israel, more than 10,000 Palestinian citizens of Israel marched against gun violence in Tamra; 1 Palestinian-Israeli passerby was shot and killed by Israeli police during a shootout on 2/1. (AP, HA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 2/6; WAFA 2/7; HA, TOI 2/8; HA 2/9; PCHR 2/11)

In Israel, protesters demonstrated outside of prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s official residence for the 33d Saturday in a row. This week, the thousands of anti-corruption protesters were joined by Palestinians from Silwan who protested the systematic eviction of Palestinians from the East Jerusalem neighborhood. (AP, HA 2/6; REU 2/7)

PA president Mahmoud Abbas met with the newly appointed UN special coordinator for the Middle East peace process Tor Wennesland. (WAFA 2/6)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces demolished 15 tents, seized 3 vehicles, and arrested 1 Palestinian activist trying to prevent the forces from demolishing and seizing Palestinian property in Khirbat Humsa; Israeli forces demolished 25 structures in Khirbet Humsa on 2/1. The EU said it would send representatives to Khirbet Humsa on 2/4 to witness the destruction; more than 70 Palestinians were displaced during the mass demolitions on 2/1 and 2/3. Israeli forces also conducted military drills in the Masafer Yatta area, damaging crops and agricultural structures for the 2d day in a row. Elsewhere, Israeli forces demolished 1 house under construction in Anata and 11 vending stalls near Jenin. Israeli forces also delivered 1 demolition notice for a house in al-Khadir. 25 Palestinians were arrested during raids in and around Tuqu‘, al-Fawar refugee camp, Bayt Umar, Hizma, Salfit, Nablus, Sabastiyya, Tulkarm, and Qabatiya. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire at Palestinian farmers east of al-Shuka and arrested 1 Palestinian in the vicinity of the Gaza fence; no injuries were reported. Off the coast of Gaza, Israeli naval forces opened fire at Palestinian fishermen 3 nautical miles west of al-Sudaniyya; no injuries were reported. (REU, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 2/3; AP, HA, HA, NBC, PCHR, WAFA, WAFA 2/4; OCHA 2/5)

The Israeli high court of justice approved the punitive demolition of the family home of 1 Palestinian accused of killing an Israeli settler on 12/20/2020. The punitive demolition will displace 7 people: the accused Palestinian, his wife, 3 children, and 2 parents. (HA 2/3)

Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu appointed retired police major general Aharon Franco to lead efforts to combat violence in Palestinian communities in Israel and said he had allocated $30 million for the efforts. Franco has made degrading comments about Muslims in Israel in the past. The Israeli plan to combat violence in the Palestinian communities includes confiscating weapons and the construction of police and fire stations in several cities and towns. Ayman Odeh of Hadash (The Democratic Front for Peace and Equality) called the plan inadequate and an “election ploy.” (HA 2/4)

3 of the 4 parties in the Joint Arab List announced they will remain on the same slate for the March elections as the more conservative Ra’am (United Arab List) broke with the alliance. The 3 remaining parties in the Joint Arab List are Hadash, Ta’al (Arab Movement for Renewal), and Balad (National Democratic Alliance). Hadash leader Ayman Odeh will continue to lead the slate. The leader of Ra’am Mansour Abbas said his party had not decided on who it would support amidst rumors that the party will support Benjamin Netanyahu. (HA 2/3; AJ, AP 2/4; MEMO 2/5)

Israeli forces conducted air strikes in Syria near Quneitra, causing damage but no injuries. Israeli forces also flew a drone over Lebanon, which evaded an anti-aircraft missile fired at it. Hezbollah said it shot down an Israeli drone on 2/1. (AP, HA, HA 2/3; AJ, JP, JP 2/4)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers set up mobile homes on Palestinian-owned land near Bidya. 3 Palestinians were arrested during house raids in Jenin. In East Jerusalem, 3 Palestinians were arrested in Jabal Mukabir and al-Tur. (WAFA 1/31; PCHR 2/4)

In Israel, protests against Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu continued for the 32d Saturday in a row with thousands of people gathering outside of his official residence demanding his resignation over his corruption charges, COVID-19 response, and the Israeli economy. (AP, HA 1/30; PCHR 2/4)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces raided Kafr Malik, leading to clashes with Palestinians; 1 Palestinian was shot by a rubber-coated bullet, others suffered tear-gas related injuries. Israeli forces also razed hundreds of olive trees near Tubas. Elsewhere, Israeli forces demolished 1 residential structure and 1 agricultural structure in Sawahara al-Sharqiyya, seized 2 agricultural structures in Khan al-Ahmar, and demolished 1 mosque in a Bedouin community near Yatta. Palestinians protested the PA presidential decrees published on 1/11, which critics say serve to bolster the PA presidency at the expense of the judicial branch of government; the protests were held in front of the court complex in Ramallah. 18 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in and around Jenin, Qabatiya, Madama, Sabastiyya, Hizma, Hebron, and Birzeit. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 1/27; HA, PCHR 1/28)

The PA announced it had decided to close the Allenby border crossing with Jordan to prevent the spread of new COVID-19 virus variants. The closure is in effect until 2/3. (WAFA 1/28)

After Israel refused to allow restoration work on the Dome of the Rock and other holy places in the Haram al-Sharif compound, Jordan’s foreign minister Ayman Safadi said Israel had agreed to retract its objections and allow the restoration work. (WAFA 1/27; WAFA 1/28)

Member of the Palestinian-Israeli Balad party Mtanes Shehadeh said after a meeting among members of the Arab Joint List that the list will likely be dissolved before the next election due to “fundamental political differences.” 1 of the reasons the Arab Joint List is having irreconcilable differences is that Mansour Abbas, the leader of the United Arab List, is seeking closer ties with Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Another reason is the United Arab List’s more conservative values compared to the 3 other parties. Parties running for the Israeli elections have until 2/4 to submit their composition of candidates. (HA 1/25; HA, TOI 1/27)

Large protests broke out in Tripoli in Lebanon, leading to confrontations between police and protesters. 1 protester was reported dead and 226 people injured, including 26 police officers. The protesters started taking to the street on 1/25, demonstrating against the COVID-19-related lockdown measures and deteriorating living conditions. (AP 1/27; AP 1/28)

The new U.S. administration said it would freeze the sale of F-35 fighter jets to the UAE and munitions to Saudi Arabia to review the transactions. U.S. secretary of state Antony Blinken said the practice of new administrations reviewing pending sales of weaponry is not uncommon. The sale of the F-35 fighter jets to the UAE was part of the Israel-U.S.-UAE normalization deal announced in August 2020. Secretary Blinken also spoke with the Israeli foreign minister Gabi Ashkenazi over the phone to discuss, among other issues, expanding the Trump administration’s normalization efforts. (AJ, AX, HA, HA, TOI 1/27)

At her confirmation hearing, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, U.S. president Joe Biden’s nominee for UN ambassador, said that she finds the BDS movement “unacceptable” and that it is on “the verge of antisemitism.” Thomas-Greenfield also said she was looking forward to combatting “anti-Israel bias” at the UN and hoped to see more countries join normalization deals with Israel and the U.S. (HA, MEE, TOI 1/27)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers blocked an intersection at the Bethlehem-Hebron road and threw stones at Palestinian vehicles near Burin and Madama. Israeli settlers also raided Kafr al-Dik, destroying 120 olive trees, and breaking windows of an agricultural structure and stealing its contents. Israeli forces violently dispersed anti-settlement protests in the Masafer Yatta area, near Yatta, leading to tear-gas related injuries; Israeli settlers also unleashed dogs on Palestinian journalists covering the protest, leading to the hospitalization of 1 and injuries to 1 other. Israeli forces also raided Bayt Fajjar, leading to tear-gas related injuries. Elsewhere, Israeli forces violently dispersed a protest in Kafr Qaddum; 2 Palestinians were hit by tear gas canisters. 1 Palestinian was arrested during a late-night raid in Jenin. Off the coast of Gaza, Israeli naval forces opened fire at Palestinian fishermen 3 nautical miles west of Bayt Lahiya. In Gaza, 47 Palestinians were injured in a blast in Bayt Hanun; it is unclear what caused the explosion. (HA, PCHR, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 1/23; WAFA 1/24; PCHR 1/28)

In Israel, protests against prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu continued for the 31st Saturday in a row with thousands of people gathering outside of his official residence demanding his resignation over his corruption charges, COVID-19 response, and the Israeli economy. (AP 1/23; WAFA 1/24)

Palestinian-Israeli politician Sami Abu Shehadeh won the primaries for the leadership of the Balad party over the incumbent Mtanes Shihadeh. (JP 1/23; HA 1/24)

The U.S. national security council released a statement saying national security advisor Jake Sullivan promised Israeli national security advisor Meir Ben-Shabbat that the U.S. “will closely consult with Israel on all matters of regional security,” and that the U.S. would continue to build “on the success of Israel’s normalization arrangements.” (AX 1/23; AJ, MEE, REU, TOI 1/24; HA 1/27)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers assaulted 2 Palestinian farmers in Khirbet al-Tawil, leading to their hospitalization. Israeli settlers also threw stones at Palestinian vehicles traveling near Turmus ‘Ayya, causing damage. Israeli forces shot and injured 1 Palestinian at al-Ibrahimi Mosque in Hebron; Israeli authorities say the man had pulled a knife on the soldiers, but no injuries were reported among the Israeli forces. Israeli forces also razed farmland and uprooted some 80 olive trees in Bayt Umar. For the 2d time in less than 7 days, 1 Palestinian was injured by an unexploded ordnance left behind by Israeli forces near Hebron; the 1st time was on 1/8. 21 Palestinians were arrested during raids in and around Jenin refugee camp, Qabatiya, Ya‘bad, Tubas, Ramallah, Bethlehem, Bayt Umar, and Qalqilya; clashes erupted during the raids in Ramallah, leading to tear-gas related injuries. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces raided al-Tur, leading to tear-gas related injuries; 4 Palestinians were arrested. In Gaza, Israeli forces made incursions and leveled farmland east of Khan Yunis. Israeli forces also shelled several places in the northern part of Gaza after claiming that an Israeli vehicle had been shot at; no injuries were reported. (HA, HA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 1/13; PCHR, WAFA 1/14)

Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke at a campaign rally in Nazareth to try to reach out to Palestinian citizens of Israel after demonizing that part of the Israeli population for decades. At the rally, Netanyahu shared the stage with Nazareth mayor Ali Salam, who spoke in favor of the prime minister. 19 people were arrested during a demonstration against Netanyahu and several people were injured by police, including Palestinian-Israeli members of Knesset. (HA 1/13; HA, MEE 1/14; HA 1/15)

The Jerusalem planning commission approved plans to build a permanent U.S. embassy in Jerusalem. Haaretz reported that Prime Minister Netanyahu had been pressuring the city to accelerate the approving process before U.S. president-elect Joe Biden’s inauguration. (HA 1/13)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers uprooted some 60 olive saplings in Jalud. Israeli settlers also attacked Palestinian vehicles traveling on the Nablus-Qalqilya road, leading to 1 injury and damage. Israeli forces shot and injured 7 Palestinians trying to enter Israel for work through the separation barrier near Far‘un. Israeli forces also seized heavy machinery used to rehabilitate a road in Kardala. 10 Palestinians were arrested during raids in and around Bayt Umar, Sabastiyya, Qabatiya, Jalazun refugee camp, and Nahalin. In East Jerusalem, 6 Palestinians were arrested during raids in Issawiyya. Off the coast of Gaza, Israeli naval forces opened fire at Palestinian fishermen 3 nautical miles west of al-Sudaniyya; no injuries were reported. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire at Palestinian farmers east of Khan Yunis and Dayr al-Balah; no injuries were reported. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 1/11; PCHR 1/14)

Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that the Israeli defense ministry and the civil administration’s higher planning committee will approve 800 new settlement units in the Itamar, Beit El, Shavei Shomron, Oranit, Givat Ze’ev, Tal Menashe, and Nofei Nehemia settlements and settlement outposts. Prime Minister Netanyahu also said on Facebook that “[w]e’re here [in the West Bank] to stay. We’re continuing to build the Land of Israel.” Leader of the Israeli opposition Yair Lapid of the Yesh Atid party called the announcement of the new settlement units “irresponsible,” citing the U.S. presidential transition on 1/20. France’s foreign ministry, the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the PA denounced the settlement expansion. Israeli defense minister Benny Gantz also approved a small number Palestinian construction projects in al-Walaja, Hizma, Bethlehem, and Bayt Jala. All the projects need secondary approval. (ABC, AJ, AP, HA, REU, TOI, TOI, WAFA 1/11; REU, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 1/12)

PA prime minister Mohammed Shtayyeh and a member of the PLO executive committee condemned the UAE for allowing Israeli settler products to be imported to its market after the 1st shipment of Israeli settler goods arrived in the UAE. (WAFA 1/11; REU 1/14)

The PA health ministry said it had approved the Russian-made COVID-19 vaccine Sputnik V for emergency use. (WAFA 1/11)

PA president Mahmoud Abbas issued 3 presidential decrees, 2 of which critiques say serves to bolster the power of the PA presidency ahead of potential elections later this year. 1 decree allows the PA president to select judges instead of approving judges, who would be selected based on seniority. The decree also allows the president to force Palestinian judges to retire 5 years before the set retirement age of 70. A 2d decree establishes administrative courts, which can hear petitions against officials and institutions, previously a duty of the High Court of Justice. The president of the administrative court is appointed by the PA president. (HA 1/28)

An Israeli court in Lod ruled that screening or distributing the movie Jenin Jenin from 2002 by Mohammad Bakri should be banned and copies of the movie destroyed. Bakri was also ruled to pay $55,000 to an Israeli soldier who appears in archival footage used for the movie and $16,000 for the cost of the trial. The Israeli judge said that Bakri did not do enough research to label the movie a documentary. The PA ministry of culture condemned the ruling. (HA 1/11; AJ, TOI, WAFA 1/12; WAFA 1/13)

Defense Minister Benny Gantz said that he regretted forming a coalition with Prime Minister Netanyahu, saying that Netanyahu “cheated me and cheated you [the Israeli public].” He then called on all opposition leaders, including the Joint Arab List’s Ayman Odeh, to join him in sending “Bibi [Netanyahu] home” in the upcoming election. (HA 1/11)

The foreign ministers of Germany, France, Jordan, and Egypt met in Cairo to discuss reviving peace talks between Israel and Palestine. The quartet expressed willingness to work closely with the U.S. to map steps toward peace. In a statement, the 4 called for a Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital. According to the Jerusalem Post, the 4 countries had tried to invite the Israeli and PA foreign ministers to the meeting, but both were unable or unwilling to travel for the meeting. (HA, WAFA 1/11; JP 1/12)

U.S. billionaire and mega-donor to Benjamin Netanyahu, Donald Trump, and Israeli settlements Sheldon Adelson died. Adelson had recently flown the convicted Israeli spy Jonathan Pollard to Israel from the U.S. so he could immigrate after being released from parole, and he bought the U.S. ambassador’s house in Tel Aviv from the U.S. state department earlier in 2020. Adelson was known to have had a large influence on U.S. president Donald Trump’s aggressively pro-Israel policies during his presidency. (AJ, AJ, HA, HA, HA, NYT, REU, REU 1/12)