The Palestine Chronology

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, IDF troops arrest 22 Palestinians and issue 1 arrest summons during late-night raids in and around Ramallah, Hebron, Jenin, and Bethlehem; and patrol near Hebron, Bethlehem, Tulkarm, and Qalqilya. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 11 Palestinians during raids in Jabal Mukabir, Issawiyya, al-Tur, Shu‘fat refugee camp, and the Old City. (WAFA 12/30; PCHR 1/3)

After PA Agriculture Minister Sufian Sultan sends a message to Israel’s Agriculture Ministry informing them of his intention to reverse the PA’s 12/2 ban on imports of lamb from Israel, Israel’s Agriculture Minister Uri Ariel lifts his 12/17 ban on imports of Palestinian produce. “In light of the Palestinian agriculture minister’s notification that he is allowing the free entry of Israeli-bred lamb [into Palestinian markets], I cancel my order to block the transfer of produce from the PA to Israel,” Ariel says in a statement. Shortly after Ariel’s statement, the PA Agriculture Ministry cancels the ban on imports of Israeli produce that the PA cabinet approved on 12/27. (TOI, WAFA 12/31)

One day after Education Minister Naftali Bennett and Justice Minister Ayelet Shaked announce the formation of their new political party, Israeli polls project that their Hayamin Hehadash will win between 6 and 14 seats in the Knesset in the upcoming election on 4/9. Hosen L’Yisrael, the new party led by former IDF Chief of General Staff Benny Gantz, is projected to win between 13 and 15 seats, while Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s Likud is projected to win between 27 and 31. (HA 12/30)

Hundreds of Palestinians gather along Gaza’s border fence near Jabaliya refugee camp to continue the Great March of Return and to cheer on a number of Palestinian fishing boats sailing in a symbolic challenge of the Israeli blockade. IDF troops and Israeli naval forces violently disperse the demonstrations, as well as similar protests along the border fence near Khan Yunis and Gaza City; at least 25 Palestinians are injured. In the West Bank, IDF troops violently disperse Palestinians gathering outside Ofer Prison to demonstrate in support of the Palestinians imprisoned inside; there are no serious injuries reported. IDF troops also arrest 2 Palestinians during raids in Jenin and Tulkarm; and patrol near Hebron, Nablus, Jenin, and Qalqilya. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 10 Palestinians during raids in Jabal Mukabir, al-Tur, and Shu‘fat refugee camp. (MNA, WAFA, WAFA 12/24; PCHR 12/27)

The heads of the parties in Israel’s ruling coalition announce their decision to dissolve the current Knesset and hold early elections on 4/9/19. Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu says that the decision was unanimous and that he intends to bring new parties into the current coalition after the elections. Netanyahu reportedly made his decision to push for early elections on 12/22 after consulting with his lawyers and top aides about a variety of issues, including several stalled legislative initiatives and the percolating corruption case against him. Netanyahu also says that the IDF has asserted control over the northern border and that this is the “perfect” time for early elections. Later, the ruling coalition agrees with the opposition to suspend work on all legislation that they don’t agree on until the Knesset is dissolved. Meanwhile, a senior White House official says that Israel’s early elections are “one of many factors we are considering in evaluating the timing of the release of [the Trump administration’s long awaited Palestinian-Israeli] peace plan.” (HA, HA, MNA 12/24; HA, HA 12/25)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces deliver stop-work orders to 4 Palestinian homes under renovation in al-Khadir village near Bethlehem and a Palestinian home under construction in Bayt Umar near Hebron. IDF troops assault and arrest 1 Palestinian, arrest 8 others, and issue 1 arrest summons during raids near Ramallah, Jenin, and Hebron; and patrol near Jenin, Nablus, Hebron, and Tulkarm. Israeli settlers throw stones at a Palestinian vehicle near Qalqilya, injuring a Palestinian infant. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces raid the PA’s Ministry of Jerusalem Affairs headquarters and another Palestinian administrative office in al-Dahiya, confiscating files related to the sale of a home in the Muslim Quarter of the Old City and lightly injuring 5 Palestinians who confront them. Separately, Israeli forces arrest 7 Palestinians during raids in Qalandia refugee camp, al-Tur, Hizma, and Silwan. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Bayt Lahiya, causing no damage or injuries. (HA, MNA, MNA, TOI, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 11/4; MNA, WAFA 11/5; PCHR 11/8)

The Palestinian who IDF troops shot and injured along Gaza’s border fence on 11/3 succumbs to his injuries. (MNA 11/4)

Al-Hayat reports that Fatah officials accepted an Egyptian proposal to mediate a “calm” between Israel and Hamas, marking a break from PA president Mahmoud Abbas’s previous stance. Meanwhile, Israeli defense minister Avigdor Lieberman reportedly spars with the rest of the Israeli cabinet over the proposed “calm” in Gaza. He is reportedly in favor of a violent strike on Gaza in an effort to assert calm, rather than making any concessions to Hamas. (AH, TOI, TOI 11/4)

In the West Bank, IDF troops conduct a raid in Nablus overnight, sparking minor clashes with stone-throwing Palestinian minors; 5 Palestinians are injured. They also arrest 7 Palestinians during late-night raids near Qalqilya, Bethlehem, Jenin, and Nablus; and patrol in and around Tulkarm, Hebron, and Qalqilya. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 4 Palestinians during late-night raids in al-Tur and the Old City. Along Gaza’s border, Israeli forces conduct limited incursions to level land near Jabaliya refugee camp and Khan Yunis. They also open fire on Palestinian farmers working near Dayr al-Balah and al-Bureij refugee camp, causing no injuries. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Bayt Lahiya late at night, causing no damage or injuries. (MNA, WAFA 4/16; PCHR 4/19)

The Israeli authorities shut down border crossings in and out of Gaza and the West Bank “in accordance with instructions from the government and a situations assessment by the IDF,” according to an IDF statement. The borders are set to remain closed until after Israel’s 70th anniversary celebrations are complete at midnight on 4/19. (TOI 4/16; HA, JP 4/17)

Along Gaza’s border, a number of Palestinians tie firebombs to kites and fly them into Israeli territory, causing several small fires. IDF troops then violently disperse Palestinians protesting near the border fence outside Gaza City, Khan Yunis, and Jabaliya refugee camp; 3 Palestinians are injured. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Bayt Lahiya and Jabaliya refugee camp, causing no damage or injuries. In the West Bank, IDF troops seal off the main entrance to Bayt Umar near Hebron while they conduct raids in the village. The raids spark minor clashes; there are no reported injuries or arrests. Israeli forces issue stop-work orders to a Palestinian home under construction in Yatta village near Hebron and bar Palestinian laborers from working on water infrastructure outside Bethlehem. IDF troops confiscate some surveillance footage and arrest 25 Palestinians during late-night raids near Ramallah, Qalqilya, Bethlehem, Nablus, Jenin, and Hebron; and patrol near Hebron, Qalqilya, Salfit, and Tulkarm. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 7 Palestinians during late-night raids in Shu‘fat refugee camp, Abu Dis, and al-Tur. (WAFA 4/15; HA 4/16; PCHR 4/19)

The IDF announces it destroyed a tunnel leading into Israel from the Jabaliya refugee camp area on 4/14, bringing the number of Gazan tunnels demolished since the beginning of 2017 to 8. DM Lieberman says that this was the “longest and deepest [tunnel] exposed so far” and calls on the Palestinians in Gaza to stop Hamas from “burning your money on tunnels going nowhere.” (HA, JP, TOI, YA 4/15)

In the West Bank, IDF troops conduct raids in al-Mughayyir near Ramallah, sparking clashes with stone-throwing Palestinian students; 1 Palestinian is lightly injured. They arrest 10 Palestinians and issue 2 arrest summons during raids near Nablus, and patrol near Nablus, Jenin, and Hebron. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces conduct widespread late-night raids in Shu‘fat refugee camp for the 2d day in a row, arresting 19 Palestinians. They also arrest 1 Palestinian patient during a raid at a hospital in al-Tur. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Jabaliya refugee camp, causing no damage or injuries. Along Gaza’s border, Israeli forces conduct 3 limited incursions to level land near al-Maghazi refugee camp and Khan Yunis. (MNA, WAFA 3/21; PCHR, WAFA 3/22; PCHR 3/29)

In the West Bank, the Israeli authorities evict a Palestinian farmer from his property near Bethlehem, claiming the land is stateowned. IDF troops arrest 7 Palestinians during late-night raids in and around Jenin, Nablus, and Qalqilya; and patrol near Tulkarm and Qalqilya. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 10 Palestinians during raids in Bayt Hanina, Silwan, al-Tur, and Qalandia refugee camp. Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops open fire on Palestinian farms near Juhur al-Dik, causing no major damage or injuries. (TOI, WAFA 1/22; PCHR 1/25)

U.S. VP Pence addresses a special session of the Israeli Knesset, reaffirming the Trump administration’s commitment to forging a “lasting” Palestinian-Israeli peace deal and announcing that the U.S. embassy in Jerusalem will open by the end of 2019. (AA, GDN, HA, JP, NYT, YA 1/22)

IDF troops block off the main road in Jayyus village near Qalqilya, sparking clashes with stone-throwing Palestinians; 1 Palestinian is killed. Elsewhere in the West Bank, IDF troops conduct raids in Burqin village near Jenin, sparking clashes with stone-throwing residents; 7 Palestinians are injured. They also patrol near Hebron and Nablus, and deliver stop-work orders to a mosque and a building under construction in Yatta village near Hebron. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 9 Palestinians during late-night raids in Biddu, al-Tur, and Silwan. (HA, JP, WAFA 1/15; MNA 1/16; PCHR 1/18)

For a 2d day in a row, the PLO Central Council convenes in Ramallah to coordinate a long-term strategy for responding to U.S. pres. Trump’s 12/6 recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital. In a concluding statement, the council calls for international support for Palestinian statehood, directs the PLO Executive Committee to revoke the PLO’s recognition of Israel until the Israeli government recognizes the State of Palestine, and declares that the transitional period laid out in the Oslo Accords is no longer applicable to the current situation. (JP, TOI, WAFA 1/15; AFP, HA 1/16)

Following the deadly shooting near Nablus on 1/9, the IDF shuts down the Huwwara checkpoint, slowing traffic in the Nablus area. IDF troops clash with Palestinian youths in Madama village near Nablus; 5 journalists are blocked from covering the conflict. Israeli settlers raze a swath of Palestinian farmland outside the Yitzhar settlement near Nablus. Elsewhere, IDF troops arrest 18 Palestinians during late-night raids in and around Hebron, Nablus, Ramallah, and Jenin; and patrol near Hebron throughout the day. Around 500 Israeli settlers enter 2 villages near Qalqilya, sparking minor confrontations with the Palestinian residents; there are no serious injuries. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 8 Palestinians during late-night raids in al-Tur, Jabal Mukabir, Issawiyya, and the Old City. Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops open fire on Palestinian agricultural areas near Juhur al-Dik late at night, causing no major damage. (MNA, WAFA 1/10; PCHR 1/11; PCHR 1/18)

The Higher Planning Commission of Israel’s Civil Administration advances plans for the construction of 1,122 new homes in 20 West Bank settlements, including 204 in Oranit and more than 50 in the Jordan Valley. The commission also publishes tenders for the construction of 651 units. (HA, JP, JTA, PCN, TOI 1/11)

In the West Bank, IDF troops conduct raids in Bayt Rima near Ramallah overnight, arresting 1 Palestinian and shooting and injuring another. Late-night raids in al-Fara‘a refugee camp near Tubas spark further clashes; 1 Palestinian is injured and 3 are arrested. The IDF arrests 9 more Palestinians during raids in and around Jenin, Ramallah, Nablus, Qalqilya, Hebron, and Bethlehem, and patrols near Hebron and Nablus. Israeli settlers park a number of residential trailers on Palestinian land near Nablus. PASF troops arrest a prominent Palestinian activist, Issa Amro, 1 day after he posted calls for the resignation of PA pres. Abbas and PM Hamdallah on Facebook (Amro is the founder of Youth Against Settlements). In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 3 Palestinian youths during a raid in al-Tur. (JDF, TOI, WAFA 9/4; EI, GDN, HA 9/5; PCHR 9/14)

The Islamic Jihad Movement in Palestine (PIJ) announces that 1 of its fighters died “accidentally” during a mission in Gaza today. No further details are made available. (MNA 8/29)

Along Gaza’s border, Israeli forces conduct a limited incursion to level land near Khan Yunis. In the West Bank, IDF troops arrest 6 Palestinians during late-night raids in and around Jenin and Bethlehem, and patrol near Hebron. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 4 Palestinians during raids in al-Tur. (MNA, WAFA 8/28; MNA 8/29; PCHR 9/1)

For a 2d day in a row, the Egyptian authorities partially open the Rafah border crossing. They allow 882 humanitarian cases, including students and infirm individuals, to exit Gaza, while 166 Palestinians return to Gaza from Egypt. (MNA 8/29; OCHA 9/14)

Hamas’s leader in Gaza Yahya Sinwar announces that the group has restored relations with Iran. “The relationship today is developing and returning to what it was in the old days,” Sinwar says, referring to the 2011 breakdown in relations over Hamas’s refusal to support Syrian pres. Bashar al-Asad in the Syrian civil war. (REU, TOI 8/28; REU 8/29)

IDF troops conduct raids in Dahaysha r.c. nr. Bethlehem overnight, sparking clashes with stone-throwing Palestinians; 2 Palestinians and 1 Israeli soldier are injured. An IDF raid in Kobar nr. Ramallah sparks further clashes; 15 Palestinians are injured and 5 are arrested. IDF troops arrest a Palestinian in c. Hebron found to be carrying a knife, arrest 2 more Palestinians during late-night raids nr. Hebron, and patrol nr. Hebron and Jenin during the day. Israeli settlers set fire to 2 Palestinian vehicles and leave price-tag graffiti in Umm Safa nr. Ramallah overnight. Hundreds of Israeli settlers march through Hebron to the Abu Rajab building in which settler families have been squatting since 7/25. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces demolish a residential structure and a surrounding fence in Bayt Hanina, and arrest 6 Palestinians during raids in Shu‘fat r.c., al-Tur, and the Old City. (HA, MNA, TOI, WAFA, YA 8/9; PCHR 8/10; PCHR 8/17)

Tensions in East Jerusalem remain high as Israeli forces mount new security cameras at the entrances to Haram al-Sharif to supplement the new metal detectors installed in the wake of the deadly attack on 7/14. They also reopen the sanctuary, allowing more than 100 Jewish settlers to tour it in the morning. Palestinians protest and pray outside the sanctuary throughout the day; approximately 21 are injured during the ensuing clashes with Israeli forces. Meanwhile, Israeli forces arrest 3 Palestinians during raids in al-Tur. In the West Bank, armed Israeli settlers march through a Palestinian village nr. Jenin in protest of the deadly attack on 7/21. Other settlers throw stones at Palestinian vehicles nr. Nablus and Hebron, causing no serious damage. IDF troops shoot and injure 3 Palestinians: 1 attempting to cut through a fence nr. Qalqilya, another evading arrest in the n. Jordan Valley, and a 3d driving “suspiciously” at a checkpoint nr. Nablus, according to an IDF spokesperson. Meanwhile, the IDF violently disperses Palestinians protesting in solidarity with the Muslim worshippers outside Haram al-Sharif in Jayyus village nr. Qalqilya (2 Palestinians are injured), arrests 4 Palestinians and issues 1 arrest summons during late-night raids nr. Bethlehem and Hebron, and patrols nr. Hebron and Salfit throughout the day. An arrest raid in Nablus sparks minor clashes with stonethrowing youths; 1 Palestinian is injured. (HA, MNA, TOI, WAFA, YA 7/23; PCHR 7/27)

Unidentified Palestinians fire 2 rockets from Gaza into s. Israel; 1 explodes in midair, and the other lands in an open area nr. Ashqelon, causing no damage or injuries. Late that night, Israeli tanks positioned along Gaza’s border shell a Hamas post nr. Dayr al-Balah and an open area nr. Khan Yunis, causing an unknown amount of damage. (TOI 7/23; HA, MNA, WAFA, YA 7/24)

At the Israeli Embassy in Amman, an Israeli security guard shoots and kills 2 Jordanians, the property owner and a teenage worker, in disputed circumstances. The attack exacerbates Israeli-Jordanian tensions, which are already running high given the ongoing crisis at Haram al-Sharif. The Israeli authorities refuse to allow the Jordanian police to question the guard, and the Jordanian authorities refuse to allow the Israeli Embassy staff to leave the country until the guard submits to questioning. (MNA, TOI 7/23; HA, YA 7/24)

The Israeli press reports that the IDF has barred Palestinian workers from entering Halamish and a number of other Israeli settlements following the deadly attack on 7/21 and the settler protests on 7/22. Meanwhile, Israeli PM Netanyahu says that the home of the Palestinian who stabbed 4 Israeli settlers on 7/21 will be demolished soon. (MNA, TOI, WAFA, YA 7/23)

Tensions remain high in East Jerusalem after the widespread and deadly clashes on 7/21; 1 Palestinian is killed and 14 are injured in clashes in al-‘Izzariya, Wadi al-Juz, Issawiyya and al-Tur. Clashes also break out outside Haram al-Sharif throughout the day, but there are no serious injuries. Meanwhile, Palestinians across the city largely observe a commercial strike to commemorate the 3 Palestinians killed on 7/21. Meanwhile, Israeli forces arrest 16 Palestinians during raids in Silwan, al-Tur, and the Old City. In the West Bank, a Palestinian youth is killed when he accidentally triggers a piece of unexploded Israeli ordnance nr. Tubas. IDF troops conduct raids in Kobar, the Ramallaharea village of the Palestinian who allegedly stabbed 4 Israeli settlers at the Halamish settlement on 7/21, threatening punitive demolition of his home and sparking minor clashes (there are no serious injuries). Hundreds of settlers from Halamish set up a new outpost nr. their settlement to protest the 7/21 attack. Settlers protest and throw stones at Palestinian vehicles across the West Bank in response to the attack, damaging several cars and causing no serious injuries. Meanwhile, IDF troops arrest 25 Palestinians during late-night raids in and around Hebron, Bethlehem, Jenin, Salfit, Tubas, Qalqilya, and Nablus; and patrol throughout the day nr. Hebron. Along Gaza’s border, Israeli forces conduct a limited incursion to level land nr. al-Bureij r.c. (HA, MNA, TOI, WAFA 7/22; MNA 7/23; PCHR 7/27)

COGAT Mordechai says that Israel is “willing to examine alternatives to the metal detectors” installed at Haram al-Sharif “as long as the solution of alternative[s] ensures the prevention of the next attack.” (YA 7/22)

Sweden, France, and Egypt call for the UN Security Council (UNSC) to hold an emergency meeting to address the escalating tensions at Haram al-Sharif. UN diplomats say they will discuss the situation on 7/24. The Middle East Quartet releases a statement of concern about the “escalating tensions and violent clashes.” (WAFA 7/22; TOI 7/23)

IDF troops shoot and injure a Palestinian at a checkpoint in c. Hebron after he allegedly attempts to stab 1 of them. Elsewhere in the West Bank, IDF troops fire tear gas and stun grenades inside the grounds of a hospital complex in Ramallah, sparking minor clashes with stone-throwing Palestinians; there are no serious injuries. The IDF says that the troops entered the hospital’s grounds to break up a crowd forming there. IDF troops also violently suppress Palestinian journalists protesting in solidarity with the 1,500-plus hunger striking Palestinian prisoners observing the Dignity Strike in Bethlehem and outside Ofer Prison nr. Ramallah; 5 journalists are injured. Israeli forces arrest 5 Palestinians during late-night raids nr. Bethlehem, Nablus, and Qalqilya; and patrol nr. Jenin, Qalqilya, Ramallah, and Hebron during the day. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces demolish 3 homes in al-Walaja village and 1 each in al-Tur, Sur al-Bahir, and Issawiyya. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats nr. Jabaliya r.c., causing no damage or injuries. In s. Israel, Israeli forces demolish a home in Tel al-Sabi village. The owner has rebuilt his home 10 times in the past 2 years. (HA, JP, MNA, WAFA 5/4; MNA 5/5; PCHR 5/11)

A PIJ fighter succumbs to injuries he sustained in an accident at a “resistance post” in Gaza on 4/26. (MNA 5/4)

The White House officially confirms that Pres. Trump plans to visit Israel and the oPt on 5/22–23 in the context of his efforts to restart Palestinian-Israeli peace negotiations. The Saudi newspaper al-Hayat will report on 5/5 that the White House refused an Israeli request to delay the visit until 6/2017, which would coincide with the 50th anniversary of the 1967 war. Other sources say that Trump feared the proposed timing would cast him as a biased mediator. (HA 5/4; AH, HA 5/6)

In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces demolish 3 apartment buildings, an agricultural shed, and 5 retaining walls in al-Za’ayem village on the outskirts of the city. They also arrest 7 Palestinians during late-night raids in Silwan, Sheikh Jarrah, Qalandia r.c., and al-Tur. A Palestinian demolishes his own home in Bayt Hanina to avoid paying Israeli demolition fees. In the West Bank, Israeli forces confiscate a Palestinian mobile home nr. Nablus. IDF troops arrest 7 Palestinians during late-night raids nr. Bethlehem and Jenin, and patrol nr. Hebron during the day. Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops open fire on Palestinian homes and agricultural land nr. Khan Yunis, causing no damage or injuries. Israeli drones spray pesticides on Palestinian lands nearby. (MNA, WAFA 4/4; HA 4/5; PCHR 4/6)

A Hamas spokesperson calls on alleged Palestinian collaborators with Israel to give up information relating to the 3/24 killing of senior Hamas military cmdr. Fuqaha. Hamas is giving alleged collaborators a week, starting today, to come forward in exchange for “full legal and physical protections, as well as a discreet undertaking of the matter.” The spokesperson calls it a “week of repentance.” (JP, MNA 4/4)

Israeli forces shoot and kill a Palestinian in the Old City of East Jerusalem after he allegedly stabs and injures an Israeli police officer and an Israeli civilian. A Palestinian youth is struck and injured by an Israeli bullet during the incident. Elsewhere in the city, Israeli forces demolish a building under construction in Bayt Hanina, arrest 3 Palestinian children on their way home from school nr. the Old City, and arrest 15 more Palestinians during late-night raids in al-Tur, Issawiyya, and Silwan. In the West Bank, an IDF convoy of more than 20 vehicles raids Birzeit University’s campus nr. Ramallah, leaving “a great deal of havoc” in their wake, according to a university statement. Several buildings are damaged and many of their contents are destroyed. Separately, after reports of shots fired on an Israeli settler nr. Ramallah, IDF troops conduct raids in Nabi Salih, shut down the village’s entrance, and assault a group of Palestinian youths at a nearby gas station, causing no serious injuries. IDF troops arrest 5 Palestinians and issue 1 arrest summons during late-night raids nr. Hebron, Jenin, and Nablus. (HA, MNA, WAFA, YA 12/14; EI, MNA, PCHR 12/15; PCHR 12/22)

With U.S. attendance in doubt and Israel pledging not to participate, Palestinian amb. to France Salman al-Herfi says that the French govt. has postponed its planned 12/21 peace conference meant to launch a new round of Israeli-Palestinian peace talks until at least 1/2017. The French say that the postponement will allow them to “make better preparations,” and that, if Israel continues to refuse to attend, the conference will still go forward as planned, according to al-Herfi. (HA, JP, MNA, VOP, YA 12/14)

The residents of the Amona settlement outpost vote to reject the deal reached by Israeli PM Netanyahu and Edu. Min. Bennett on 12/12, fearing that it will get bogged down in the courts because of Palestinian ownership claims on most of the proposed relocation land: “We were willing to accept the destruction of our private homes, and a move from place to place, if only a Jewish community would remain on the hill. But the proposed arrangement does not provide any guarantee or commitment that we will indeed receive an alternative home.” (AS, HA, JP, TOI, YA 12/15)

IDF troops assault a Palestinian youth at the entrance to ‘Azun village nr. Qalqilya before arresting him. It’s unclear why the young man was targeted. Meanwhile, the IDF arrests at least 7 Palestinians and confiscates 1 car during raids in and around Hebron, Jenin, and Nablus; and patrols nr. Hebron throughout the day. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces demolish 1 residential building each in Issawiyya, al-Tur, and Wadi al-Juz. They also arrest 5 Palestinians during late-night raids in Jabal Mukabir. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats nr. Bayt Lahiya late at night, causing no damage or injuries. (MNA, WAFA 11/8; MNA 11/9; PCHR 11/10)

In a surprise win, Republican Trump is elected to become the 45th pres. of the U.S. His victory promises to upend many U.S. relationships, including those with Israel, the Palestinians, and Iran. (AP, BBC, NYT 11/8; HA, TOI, WAFA 11/9)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces demolish part of a classroom in a bedouin community nr. Jerusalem, and 6 residences and 9 sheep barns in the n. Jordan Valley. IDF troops arrest 10 Palestinians, including 1 Palestinian Legislative Council mbr., during raids and house searches nr. Jenin, Tulkarm, and in and around Hebron; and patrol nr. Salfit and Hebron during the day. Palestinian youths throw Molotov cocktails at an Israeli settler’s vehicle late at night nr. Ramallah, injuring 1 settler. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces demolish 3 residential buildings in al-Tur and Bayt Safafa. Israeli forces continue targeting Shu‘fat r.c., raiding the camp for the 5th day this week and arresting 6 residents. They arrest 6 more Palestinians during raids in Abu Dis, Qalandia r.c., Jabal Mukabir, and Issawiyya. (MNA, WAFA 9/27; MNA 9/28; PCHR 9/29)

The Israeli police deploy heavily across East Jerusalem ahead of the Jewish High Holidays, issuing a temporary security alert and installing road blocks. (MNA 9/27)

In East Jerusalem, an unidentified Palestinian stabs and lightly injures an Israeli youth with a screwdriver in al-Tur. Meanwhile, 129 Jewish settlers tour Haram al-Sharif, and 3 of them allegedly perform prayers at the sanctuary. Israeli forces assault and injure a Palestinian amid clashes sparked by a raid in Silwan late at night. They arrest 14 Palestinians during further raids in the Old City around the same time. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats nr. Bayt Lahiya, causing no damage or injuries. Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops open fire on Palestinian farmers and shepherds working nr. Dayr al-Balah, causing no injuries. In the West Bank, Israeli forces demolish a stonecutting workshop in a village nr. Jenin. IDF troops arrest 5 Palestinians and issue 4 arrest summons during late-night raids and house searches in Hebron and nr. Nablus, Ramallah, and Bethlehem; and patrol during the day nr. Hebron. (HA, JP, MNA, TOI, WAFA 8/11; MNA 8/12; PCHR 8/18)

Hundreds of Israeli settlers visit Joseph’s Tomb nr. Nablus overnight, sparking clashes between their IDF escort and Palestinian youths; 2 Palestinians are injured. Elsewhere in the West Bank, IDF troops arrest 11 Palestinians during late-night house searches and raids in and around Hebron, Jenin, Tubas, Nablus, Qalqilya, Tulkarm, and Ramallah, sparking clashes nr. Tubas (2 Palestinians are lightly injured). They also patrol in and around Salfit and Hebron; assault and arrest a Palestinian at a checkpoint nr. Jenin (they also confiscate his tractor). In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces assault a guard at Haram al-Sharif and shut down repair work on a broken pipe at the sanctuary on the grounds that the proper permits were not secured beforehand. They also arrest 8 Palestinians during late-night raids in Silwan and al-Tur. A Palestinian demolishes his own home in Silwan to avoid paying for an Israeli demolition crew. (MNA, WAFA 8/2; PCHR 8/4)

Israel’s Knesset passes, 32–16, into law the so-called Youth Bill, which allows people under the age of 14 to be convicted of serious crimes, including murder, attempted murder, and manslaughter. (KNE, MNA, WAFA 8/3)

In the West Bank, IDF troops shoot and kill a Palestinian driver after he allegedly rams a group of Israeli soldiers nr. Ramallah, injuring 3 (1 seriously). Palestinian witnesses say the crash was an accident. In the evening, the IDF returns the body of the Palestinian driver. Overnight, Israeli forces carry out the punitive demolition of the doors and windows of an apartment in Nablus, where a Palestinian deemed complicit in the 10/1/2015 killing of 2 Israeli settlers lived. IDF troops violently disperse Palestinian journalists conducting a sit-in nr. Ramallah marking World Press Freedom Day; there are no serious injuries. They also conduct late-night raids and house searches nr. Jenin, Ramallah, and Bethlehem, arresting 8 Palestinians; patrol nr. Hebron and Nablus. More than 2,000 Israeli settlers, along with an IDF escort, perform religious rites in a Palestinian village nr. Salfit late at night. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 1 Palestinian on a patrol in the Old City and a 2d during a raid in al-Tur. Along Gaza’s border, armed Palestinians open fire on IDF vehicles patrolling nr. Jabaliya r.c., causing damage. The cross-border shooting comes shortly after Israeli PM Netanyahu toured the area this morning. (HA, JP, MNA, TOI, WAFA, YA 5/3; MNA 5/4; PCHR 5/5; OCHA 5/6; PCHR 5/12)

Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops open fire on Palestinian agricultural land nr. Rafah and Palestinian farmers working nr. Gaza City, causing no damage or injuries. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats, causing no injuries. In East Jerusalem overnight, Israeli forces demolish a playground and uproot a number of trees in Silwan, and arrest 3 Palestinians during latenight raids in al-Tur and Bayt Hanina. In the West Bank, Israeli forces demolish a home, a farm, a water network, and some trees outside a village nr. Bethlehem, as well as 2 homes, a large barn, and a playground in n. Bethlehem. IDF troops conduct a raid on the Hebron home of the Palestinian activist who captured the video of the Israeli soldier shooting and killing an incapacitated Palestinian on 3/24. The IDF conducts further raids and house searches nr. Bethlehem, Hebron, and Jenin, as well as in Jenin itself, arresting 11 Palestinians; patrols nr. Hebron, Ramallah, and Jenin. Palestinian Authority Security Forces (PASF) troops conduct a raid in c. Nablus, sparking armed clashes with Palestinian youths; 13 Palestinians are injured (5 of whom are PASF). (MNA, TOI, WAFA 3/29; WAFA 3/30; PCHR 3/31) 

Politico publishes a 2/17 letter signed by 11 mbrs. of the U.S. Congress, including Sen. Patrick Leahy (D-VT), addressed to Secy. of State John Kerry and calling for investigations into the “disturbing number of reports of possible gross violations of human rights by security forces in Israel and Egypt.” The letter highlights “what may be extrajudicial killings” by Israeli forces in Israel and the oPt. (POL 3/29; HA, JP, MNA, TOI 3/30)

Israel’s Knesset passes a 1st reading of 2 bills that would create economic incentives for settlement growth. The 1st would reduce bureaucratic restrictions on home purchases in settlements, preventing settlers from paying taxes to both the govt. and the Civil Admin. The 2d would entitle settlers to tax breaks as long as they are eligible for a grant promoting capital investment. (HA 3/29)

Random attacks continue in the West Bank: Israeli forces shoot and kill 2 Palestinians in a settlement nr. Nablus after they allegedly attack and lightly injure an Israeli settler. Later, 2 Palestinian youths allegedly stab and lightly injure 2 Israeli soldiers at a settlement nr. Nablus. After the 2d incident, the IDF shuts down all roads leading from Nablus except 1; closes the entrances to nearby villages (they will keep the roads sealed through 3/4). Meanwhile, IDF troops conduct raids and house searches in and around Jenin, Tulkarm, Qalqilya, and Nablus, arresting 20 Palestinians. Israeli forces demolish 12 residential, educational, and agricultural structures in a village nr. Nablus, and a home under construction nr. Tulkarm, and deliver stop-work orders to 3 homes under construction nr. Hebron. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces demolish a 3-story building in al-Tur. Dozens of right-wing Jewish activists tour Haram al-Sharif. (HA, JP, MNA, WAFA, YA 3/2; MNA, PCHR 3/3; PCHR 3/10)

Israel’s High Court of Justice rules that the govt. must return 1,700 dunams (around 420 acres) of unused land nr. Ramallah to its Palestinian owners. (JP, MNA 3/2)

Israeli forces shoot and kill a Palestinian just east of the Old City of Jerusalem after he allegedly stabs and lightly injures 2 Israeli police. A Palestinian bystander is injured in the crossfire. A video of the incident later broadcast by Al Jazeera shows that the Palestinian did not pose an immediate threat to the Israeli forces that killed him. Later, IDF troops shoot and kill a Palestinian driver outside a village nr. Ramallah after he allegedly attempts to ram them. No Israelis are injured in the incident. The IDF says that the alleged ramming occurred amid clashes with stone-throwing Palestinian youths, but Palestinian witnesses deny the claim. In the evening, the IDF returns the body of the Palestinian to his family. (AJ, HA, JP, MNA, TOI, YA 2/19; HA 2/21; PCHR 2/25)

Across the occupied Palestinian territories (oPt), IDF troops violently disperse Palestinian, Israeli, and international activists at Friday demonstrations in 6 areas nr. Ramallah (al-Masara, Bil‘in, Ni‘lin, Nabi Salih, Jalazun r.c., and outside Ofer Prison), 1 village each nr. Qalqilya and Bethlehem, and along Gaza’s border e. of Gaza City; 1 Palestinian is killed (nr. Bethlehem), 9 are injured, and 1 is arrested. Meanwhile, the IDF continues its closure of a road nr. Ramallah where a settler was stabbed on 1/18. IDF troops also conduct late-night house searches and raids in 1 village nr. Hebron, arresting 1 Palestinian; patrol in and around Hebron, Tulkarm, Jenin, Qalqilya, and Salfit. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces assault a Palestinian at a mobile checkpoint in Silwan and arrest 2 Palestinians during late-night raids in al-Tur and the Old City. (HA, MNA 2/19; MNA 2/20; PCHR 2/25)

In the West Bank, Israel Defense Forces (IDF) troops violently disperse Palestinians demonstrating in solidarity with hungerstriking Palestinian prisoner Muhammad al-Qiq, in Ramallah and in 1 nearby village, as well as in 2 areas nr. Bethlehem; 1 Palestinian is injured. They also conduct raids and house searches in 1 village each nr. Salfit and Jenin, and in Nablus, arresting 7 Palestinians; patrol in 6 villages nr. Hebron and 2 nr. Salfit. Israeli forces uproot 100 olive trees nr. Salfit. Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops arrest 3 Palestinians attempting to cross into Israel nr. Rafah. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 7 Palestinians in late-night raids in Shu‘fat refugee camp (r.c.), al-Tur, and Issawiyya. (MNA 2/16; MNA, WAFA 2/17; PCHR 2/18)

French amb. to Israel Patrick Maisonnave meets with an Israeli Foreign Ministry (FM) official and formally presents, for the 1st time, details of the French peace initiative. Hours later, Israeli prime minister (PM) Benjamin Netanyahu calls the proposal “puzzling,” saying that the French promise to recognize Palestinian statehood should the initiative fail encourages the Palestinians not to take it seriously. (HA, JP, TOI 2/16)

A total of 5 Palestinians are killed across the oPt today. First, IDF troops shoot and kill 2 Palestinians in ‘Araqa village nr. Jenin after they allegedly shoot at the soldiers. IDF troops later cordon off the roads leading to and from Araqa and patrol the area. IDF troops shoot and fatally injure a 3d Palestinian youth at a checkpoint n. of Bethlehem after he allegedly attempts to stab in Israeli soldier (he succumbs to his injuries later in the day). In the evening, Israeli forces shoot and kill a 4th and 5th Palestinian after they allegedly attempt to open fire on Israeli border police and civilians nr. Jerusalem’s Old City. IDF troops shoot and injure a Palestinian youth after she allegedly attempts to stab an Israeli soldier in c. Hebron. Palestinian witnesses report that the young woman did not attempt a stabbing. A video of the alleged stabbing is later dispersed in the media depicting Israeli soldiers pushing a disabled Palestinian witness from his wheelchair. No Israelis are injured in any of the incidents described above. (JP, TOI, YA 2/14; MNA 2/15; PCHR 2/18)

Elsewhere in the oPt, the Egyptian authorities keep the Rafah border crossing open for the 2d of 2 planned days, allowing passage in both directions. They say in the evening that they will extend the opening a 3d day on 2/15. The IDF maintains, for a 6th and final day, its punitive closure of Qabatiya, where an Israeli settler was stabbed and injured on 2/9. IDF troops patrol in a village nr. Jenin, sparking minor clashes with stone-throwing Palestinian youths; 1 Palestinian is injured. They also conduct house searches and raids late at night in Tulkarm, Tulkarm r.c., Nablus, 4 villages nr. Hebron, and 1 village nr. Ramallah, arresting 10 Palestinians; patrol further in Qalqilya, 7 villages nr. Hebron, and 1 nr. Salfit. The Israeli authorities return to his family in East Jerusalem the body of a Palestinian who was killed by Israeli police on 10/15 (the family reportedly agreed to allow only 14 people to attend his funeral and paid NIS 20,000 [around $5,150] as collateral to secure the release of his body). This is the 1st body returned to East Jerusalem since the wave of violence began in 10/2015. Meanwhile, Palestinians verbally confront 5 right-wing Jewish activists who are attempting to pray at Haram al-Sharif. Israeli forces escort the activists out of the sanctuary before the incident can escalate. Israeli forces also arrest 6 Palestinians on raids in al-Tur. (HA, MNA, TOI, WAFA, YA 2/14; HA, MNA, TOI, WAFA, YA 2/15; OCHA, PCHR 2/18)

In the West Bank, Israeli soldiers shoot and injure a Palestinian youth at a checkpoint nr. Jenin after he allegedly attempts to stab them. IDF troops raid Birzeit University overnight, destroying admin. and student property largely belonging to mbrs. of the Hamas-affiliated student bloc. IDF troops conduct late-night raids and house searches in 1 village nr. Tulkarm, ‘Aqabat Jabir r.c. nr. Jericho, Nablus and 1 nearby village, Jenin and 1 village nearby, and 2 villages nr. Hebron, arresting 10 Palestinians and issuing arrest summons to 1; patrol in 2 villages each nr. Ramallah and Jericho. Dozens of Israeli settlers perform religious rituals at Joseph’s Tomb nr. Nablus overnight, sparking clashes between their IDF escort and stone-throwing Palestinians in the area; there are no serious injuries. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces shoot and injure a Palestinian accused of throwing stones in Hizma village; arrest 4 Palestinians on late-night raids in al-Tur. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats nr. Bayt Lahiya, causing no damage or injuries. (JP, TOI, WAFA 1/11; PCHR 1/14)

The organization Physicians for Human Rights–Israel, which has been working on the case of Palestinian hunger striker al-Qiq, requests that the Israeli Prison Service appoints an independent physician to assess his condition. There are conflicting press reports that the medical team at Emek Medical Center in Afula, where al-Qiq is being held, are preparing to forcibly feed him. (MNA 1/12; PHRI 1/20)

In the West Bank, 4 Israeli soldiers are injured in a suspected ramming attack outside an Israeli settlement nr. Salfit, and Israeli forces later arrest a Palestinian suspect during a late-night raid nr. Ramallah. IDF troops injure 9 Palestinians in clashes with student protesters at the Palestine Technical University in Tulkarm. The IDF conducts a raid in Ramallah late at night, sparking clashes with stone-throwers wherein 2 Palestinians are injured; conducts further late-night raids and house searches in Tulkarm, Tulkarm r.c. and 1 nearby village, Jenin, and 1 village nr. Ramallah, arresting 12 Palestinians; patrols in 7 villages and al-Fawar r. c. nr. Hebron. Palestinians throw stones at Israeli settlers’ cars on a road to Jerusalem, causing minor damage and light injuries. Off Gaza’s coast nr. Bayt Lahiya, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats, causing no damage or injuries. In East Jerusalem, Israeli police disperse 40 right-wing Jewish activists demonstrating outside Haram al-Sharif, arresting 2 who allegedly planned to erect a menorah to commemorate Hanukkah. Israeli forces also assault and arrest 4 Palestinian youths in al-Tur; arrest 2 Palestinians walking in the Old City. (HA, JP, MNA, YA 12/10; HA, MNA 12/11; PCHR 12/17)

Israeli NGO Peace Now reports that the Israeli govt. designated as “state land” a 30-dunam (7.4-acre) swath of Palestinian land nr. Bethlehem in 11/2015. The previous designation of state land came in 8/2014. (PCN 12/10; MNA 12/11)