The Palestine Chronology

In East Jerusalem at night, Israeli settlers kidnap 16-year-old Mohammed Abu Khdeir from Shu‘fat, burn him alive, and leave his body in the Jerusalem Forest. PA Pres. Abbas states that Israel “bears full responsibility for this incident” and “must bring those responsible to justice.” Israeli PM Netanyahu urges police “to swiftly investigate who was behind the loathsome murder” and calls on all sides “not to take the law into their own hands.” In a statement, Secy. of State Kerry condemns the killing as a “sickening” act of “vengeance,” adding that the U.S. looks “to both the govt. of Israel and the PA to take all necessary steps to prevent acts of violence and bring their perpetrators to justice.” UN Middle East envoy Robert Serry also condemns the killing. During the day, there are protests and clashes in Jerusalem, especially in Shu‘fat, and 170 Palestinians are wounded. Meanwhile, Jewish settlers attack Palestinian-owned vehicles in Jaba‘, causing damage to dozens. In the Gaza Strip, Palestinians fire 9 mortars into s. Israel, causing no damage or injuries. The IDF attacks 15 targets across Gaza, injuring 11, including at least 3 civilians. Targets include a number of al-Qassam Brigades training camps. Palestinians fire 2 rockets at Ashqelon, with 1 intercepted by an Iron Dome battery and 1 falling in an open area. Later, 10 rockets are fired into s. Israel, causing no damage or injuries (1 is shot down). Meanwhile, off the coast nr. al-Sudaniyya IDF naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishermen, causing no damage or injuries. In the West Bank, IDF troops destroy a house nr. Hebron. It belonged to Ziad Awad, who is charged by Israeli authorities with the killing of an Israeli police officer in 4/2014. The IDF says that the demolition is intended to serve as a deterrent. During the demolition, IDF troops clash with residents and wound 6 with live ammunition. The IDF also conducts house searches and arrest raids in Hebron at night. Israeli settlers set fire to a sheep farm nr. Nablus, causing damage, and leaving “price tag” graffiti. (AFP, HA, JP, MNA, REU, YA, WAFA 7/2)

Reps. of Iran and the P5+1 group begin the 6th and final scheduled round of talks ahead of the 7/20 deadline for agreeing to a deal on Iran’s disputed nuclear program. Talks are scheduled to take place between 7/3 and 7/15, but may continue up to the deadline. Both sides say that progress has been made, but major differences remain. (BBC 7/3)

In the Gaza Strip, Palestinians fire 18 rockets into s. Israel, causing no damage or injuries except where 2 houses are hit by shrapnel. Two of the rockets are intercepted by Iron Dome missile defense batteries. According to Israeli officials, Hamas activists were involved in this barrage, making it the 1st time the organization has participated in rocket fire since the 11/2012 cease-fire. IDF troops conduct air strikes on 34 targets across the Gaza Strip, hitting training sites of al-Qassam Brigades, Islamic Jihad, and the PRC, and agricultural areas, killing 1, injuring 4, and causing damage. Off the coast nr. Bayt Lahiya, Israeli naval forces shell an open area on the coast, causing no damage or injuries. In the West Bank, the IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in Hebron and 1 nearby village at night; patrols in 2 villages nr. Ramallah and 1 village nr. Hebron at night. Israeli settlers attack a Palestinian in Hebron, wounding him. Separately, settlers vandalize 12 olive trees nr. Hebron. In East Jerusalem, Israeli security forces shoot and wound 2 Palestinians with rubber-coated metal bullets during clashes nr. Haram al-Sharif. The confrontations begin after restrictions are placed on worshippers’ access to the area while right-wing Jewish activists are allowed to enter. (AP, HA, IMEMC, JP, MNA 6/30; PCHR 7/3)

Israeli security forces locate the bodies of the 3 Israeli settler teenagers nr. Hebron, not far from where they were kidnapped (on 6/12) and killed. PM Netanyahu and DM Ya’alon propose that the response to the killing of the teens should include a wave of settlement construction. Netanyahu also addresses the increased tensions in Gaza and s. Israel, saying “either Hamas will stop the rocket fire or we will.” Hamas spokesperson Abu Zuhri says that if Israel attacks Hamas in Gaza, “they will open the gates of hell on themselves,” adding that Hamas does not “want any military confrontation with Israel, but if it will be forced on us it will look like in previous rounds.” Meanwhile, U.S. Pres. Barack Obama issues a statement expressing his condolences to the families of the murdered Israeli youth, calls on Israel and the PA to cooperate to bring the guilty parties to justice, and urges all sides to exercise restraint to prevent further destabilization. (AFP, HA, JP, MNA, REU 6/30)

In the Gaza Strip, an IDF drone strikes a target nr. Dayr al-Balah, killing a mbr. of Hamas’s armed wing, al-Qassam Brigades. Meanwhile, the IDF strikes 12 other, separate targets across the Gaza Strip, causing damage and 3 injuries to civilians. The air strikes hit military training facilities belonging to al-Qassam Brigades, Islamic Jihad, and the PRC, as well as a concrete factory. In addition, IDF troops shell agricultural lands close to the border fence nr. Khan Yunis, causing no damage or injuries. Off the coast of Khan Yunis, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishermen, causing no damage or injuries. In the West Bank, IDF troops level land nr. Salfit and destroy dozens of olive trees. The IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 1 village nr. Bethlehem; patrols in 2 villages nr. Ramallah and 1 village each nr. Bethlehem and Jericho at night. Israeli settlers attack Palestinian-owned agricultural land nr. Beitar Ilit, destroying crops. (HA, JP, MNA, REU, WAFA 6/29; PCHR 7/2)

Israeli PM Netanyahu says his country is “ready to expand” the operation in Gaza, in comments at the weekly cabinet meeting. Meanwhile, the PRC in Gaza claims responsibility for rocket fire, which it describes as “retaliation to the Israeli crimes against our Palestinian people in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip and the ongoing violations against prisoners.” (AFP, MNA, ToI 6/29)

In the Gaza Strip, Palestinians fire 3 rockets into s. Israel, 2 are intercepted by Iron Dome missile defense batteries and 1 causes minor damage, but no injuries. A 4th rocket fired by Palestinians lands inside the Gaza Strip, killing a child in Bayt Lahiya and injuring 3 other family mbrs. In response to the rocket fire, the IDF attacks 7 sites in the Gaza Strip, causing damage and injuring 2 police officers. Israeli military sources say that Islamic Jihad’s al-Quds Brigades are responsible for some of the rocket fire, along with smaller groups that operate independently, and often contrary to, Hamas’s authority. In the West Bank, the IDF scales back OBK, removing some of the mobile checkpoints set up in the Hebron area. Israeli DM Ya’alon says that “a large part of the operation against Hamas has been exhausted.” Meanwhile, the IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 1 village nr. Hebron in the morning, 1 village nr. Jenin in the afternoon, and in 5 villages nr. Hebron, in Jenin, and Tulkarm at night. Jewish settlers chop down olive trees and grapevines nr. Nahalin village west of Bethlehem. (HA, JP, MNA, PCHR, WAFA 6/24)

PA Pres. Abbas tells Egypt’s al-Watan newspaper that “we completely reject” the kidnapping of the Israeli youth and “are sorry it happened.” Abbas also says that Israel wants a PA “without authority or power.” Israeli PM Netanyahu praises Abbas’s condemnation of the abduction. (AFP, MNA 6/24)

In the Gaza Strip, Palestinians fire 3 rockets into s. Israel, causing no damage or injuries. IDF troops subsequently launch attacks on 4 targets in s. Gaza, causing no injuries. Separately, a Palestinian in possession of a grenade is arrested by Israeli soldiers after entering Israel through the perimeter fence. In the West Bank, a 17-yearold Palestinian is killed when he steps on a landmine in the n. Jordan Valley. Separately, an elderly Palestinian dies of a heart attack in Haris nr. Salfit during an IDF raid of the village. In al-Bireh, IDF troops clash with residents during a raid, causing no serious injuries. The IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in Hebron and 4 nearby villages, Nablus and Balata r.c., ‘Askar r.c. and 3 villages nearby, Bethlehem and 3 villages nearby, 3 villages nr. Jenin, 1 village each nr. Ramallah and Tulkarm, and in al-Bireh. (AFP, HA, JP, MNA, YA 6/22)

In the West Bank, IDF troops shoot and kill 1 Palestinian in al-Jalazun r.c. nr. Ramallah, in clashes with residents during an arrest raid. IDF troops also shoot and wound 1 Palestinian during a raid in Jenin, and wound 3 with rubbercoated metal bullets during clashes with Bayt Umar residents nr. Hebron. At Qalandia checkpoint, Israeli troops violently disperse demonstrators, wounding 6, including 1 critically, with live ammunition. The IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in Hebron and 3 nearby villages, Balata r.c. and 1 village nr. Nablus, and 2 villages nr. Qalqilya, 1 village nr. Ramallah, Bethlehem, and Jenin at night; patrols in Hebron in the afternoon, and in 4 villages nr. Ramallah, 3 villages nr. Hebron, and 1 village each nr. Qalqilya, and Salfit, and al-Bireh at night. Israeli settlers open fire on a Palestinian car nr. Ramallah, causing no injuries. In the Gaza Strip, IDF troops open fire from the border fence nr. Jabaliya, causing no damage or injuries. Israeli authorities briefly open the Kerem Shalom crossing, which was closed on 6/12. (MNA, WAFA 6/16; PCHR 6/19)

Israeli PM Netanyahu delivers a televised statement and says that the military is “in the middle of a complex operation” in the search for the missing teens. Netanyahu also calls PA Pres. Abbas and tells him he expects help in ensuring the safe return of the youth, their 1st telephone conversation in almost a year. Subsequently, Abbas releases a statement condemning the kidnapping as well as the Israeli crackdown that has followed. Meanwhile, Hamas releases a statement condemning the Israeli operation in the West Bank, and also calls on the PA to stop security coordination with Israel. (AFP, HA, JP, MNA 6/16)

Talks between reps. of Iran and the P5+1 powers on the disputed Iranian nuclear program resume in Vienna, with discussions scheduled to last until 6/20. The 2 sides aim to resolve final differences, including the number of centrifuges Iran will operate, and begin drafting a final deal. (REU 6/17; AA 6/17)

In the Gaza Strip, Palestinians fire 4 rockets toward Ashqelon: 2 are intercepted by Iron Dome missile defense batteries and 2 hit open areas causing no damage or injuries. In response, the IDF launches air strikes on 5 military targets in the n. and s. Gaza Strip, wounding 3. The IDF says Islamic Jihad is responsible for the rocket fire. In the West Bank, gunmen open fire on an Israeli military post nr. Bethlehem, causing no damage or injuries. The IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in Hebron and Dayr al-‘Arund r.c. and 3 nearby villages, Nablus and 1 nearby village, Jenin and 1 village nearby, 2 villages nr. Qalqilya, Tulkarm, and 1 nearby village, 1 village nr. Salfit; patrols in 2 villages nr. Hebron and 1 village nr. Ramallah in the morning, 2 villages nr. Hebron and 1 village each nr. Ramallah and Salfit in the afternoon, and in 2 villages nr. Jericho. Israeli settlers throw stones at Palestinian vehicles nr. Salfit, causing no injuries. Separately, settlers throw stones at cars nr. Nablus, causing damage and 1 injury. (HA, JP, MNA 6/15; PCHR 6/19)

Israeli PM Netanyahu reiterates the accusation that Hamas was behind the suspected kidnapping and that the PA is responsible for the fate of the teenagers. U.S. Secy. of State Kerry condemns what he calls a “despicable terrorist act” and says “many indications point to Hamas’s involvement.” The IDF detains dozens more in the West Bank, including parliament speaker ‘Aziz Dwayk, with an estimated 150 Palestinians arrested so far during OBK. Israel’s Coordinator of Govt. Activities in the Territories Yoav Mordechai tells the media that the IDF is not coordinating with PA security forces in the search, and believes Hamas is behind the kidnapping. IDF Chief of Staff Benny Gantz tells senior officers that “we’re heading towards an extensive operation.” He says the objective is to “find the 3 teens, bring them home, hit Hamas as hard as possible and move forward.” The Executive Comm. of the PLO meets in Ramallah and issues a statement condemning the campaign in the West Bank, while PA spokesperson Ehab Bseiso says that the PA condemns Israel’s “collective punishment of the Palestinian people.” (AFP, HA, JP, MNA, WAFA, YA 6/15)

Off the coast of the Gaza Strip nr. Bayt Lahiya, Israeli naval vessels open fire on Palestinian fishermen, causing no damage or injuries. Separately,IDF troops open fire from the border fence nr. Karni crossing, causing no injuries. In the West Bank, IDF troops demolish a Palestinian house in a village nr. Tulkarm and clash with residents, causing no injuries. Separately, IDF troops demolish 4 commercial stalls in the n. Jordan Valley. The IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in Hebron at night; patrols in 2 villages nr. Ramallah in the morning, and in 3 villages each nr. Hebron and Ramallah, and in 1 village each nr. Jericho and Salfit at night. (MNA 6/9; PCHR 6/12)

Iranian and U.S. officials meet in Geneva and hold their 1st official, bilateral talks since the beginning of the Vienna negotiations between reps. of Iran and the P5+1 powers on 1/20. Attended by Iran’s Dep. FM Araghchi along with U.S. Dep. Secy. of State William Burns, and Under Secy. of State Wendy Sherman, the discussions are intended to overcome the impasse reached in Vienna and make it possible to reach a comprehensive agreement by the 7/20 deadline. The 5th round of talks is scheduled to begin on 6/16. Araghchi tells Iranian media that it is “too early to judge whether an extension will be needed.” (AFP, AP, HA, REU 6/9)

In the Gaza Strip, a Palestinian fisherman shot by Israeli naval forces off the coast on 5/26 dies of his wounds. In the West Bank, the IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in Tulkarm and 1 nearby village, and al-‘Arub r.c. nr. Hebron at night; patrols in 1 village each nr. Jenin and Ramallah in the morning, and in 3 villages nr. Hebron, 2 villages nr. Jericho, and 1 village nr. Ramallah at night. (MNA 6/8; PCHR 6/12)

Pope Francis holds a peace prayer in the Vatican with Israel’s Pres. Shimon Peres and PA Pres. Abbas, a symbolic gesture proposed by the pontiff during his recent trip to the region on 5/24–26. (AFP 6/8)

Al-Sisi is sworn into office after his victory in Egypt’s presidential elections. During his speech at the inauguration ceremony, the head of the Egyptian military says that “there will be reconciliation between the sons of our nation except those who had committed crimes against them or adopted violence.” Abbas attends the ceremony and holds separate meetings with Secy.-Gen. of the Arab League Nabil al-‘Arabi, Egyptian FM Nabil Fahmi, and Moroccan FM Salaheddine Mezouar. (AP, WAFA 8/6)

In the West Bank, IDF troops shoot and kill a Palestinian at a checkpoint s. of Nablus. According to the Israeli military, the man 1st opened fire on soldiers, wounding 1, but his family denies the claim. IDF troops demolish a car wash in Hizma village nr. Jerusalem, and barns in Silwan, East Jerusalem. They also demolish a small house nr. Bethlehem. The IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in Jenin and in 2 villages nr. Tulkarm. In the Gaza Strip, IDF troops target 2 military training sites, one nr. Gaza City and the other nr. Khan Yunis, causing no injuries. (HA, MNA, REU, WAFA 6/2; PCHR 6/5)

PA Pres. Abbas swears in the new national unity govt. in Ramallah, after final disagreements between Fatah and Hamas are resolved. The 18 ministers, including a secy. with ministerial rank but no portfolio, take an oath of office in a televised ceremony, though 4 are participating via teleconference from the Gaza Strip because Israel denied their entry into the West Bank. Abbas announces that the govt.’s principal task is to organize elections within 6 mos., and that preparations will begin immediately. Following a meeting of Israel’s security cabinet, which was called to coordinate a response, Netanyahu’s office issues a statement that says Israel will work against the inclusion of Hamas candidates in the planned Palestinian elections, while refusing to negotiate with the Palestinians as long as a Hamas-backed unity govt. is in power. U.S. State Dept. spokesperson Psaki announces that the Obama administration intends to work with the new PA unity govt. She cites a phone call between U.S. Secy. of State Kerry and Abbas over the weekend, in which Abbas assured Kerry that the new govt. would be committed to the principles of nonviolence, recognition of the state of Israel, and acceptance of previous agreements. (AFP, HA, JP, MNA, REU, YA 6/2)

A mortar shell fired from Syria lands in the occupied Golan Heights, causing no injuries. In response, IDF troops fire an antitank missile back into Syrian territory. No damage or casualties are reported. (AP, HA, MNA 6/2)

In the Gaza Strip, IDF troops conduct 2 separate, limited incursions close to the border fence nr. Rafah to level land. Meanwhile, Palestinians fire 1 rocket into s. Israel, which lands in a field causing no injuries. In the West Bank, the IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 3 villages nr. Ramallah, and in Hebron and 1 nearby village and al-Fawar r.c. at night; patrols in Tulkarm and 3 villages nr. Jenin in the morning, 2 villages nr. Jenin in the afternoon, and in Tulkarm, 2 villages nr. Jenin and 1 village nr. Hebron at night. Jewish settlers attack Palestinians in Hebron, injuring 1. In East Jerusalem, Israeli security forces open fire on Palestinians celebrating the release of 2 prisoners, wounding 2 with rubber-coated metal bullets. (AFP, MNA, ToI 6/1; PCHR 6/5)

Israeli PM Netanyahu urges the international community not to “rush to recognize a Palestinian govt., which has Hamas as part of it and is dependent on Hamas,” a reference to the expected announcement of a new PA unity govt. PA spokesperson Abu Rudayna responds by saying that the international community had “already encouraged and welcomed Pres. Abbas’s move aimed at the unification of the country and the Palestinian people.” (HA, MNA, REU, WAFA 6/1)

Off the coast of the Gaza Strip nr. Rafah, Egyptian naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishermen, injuring 1. In the West Bank, IDF troops raid the offices of Palestinian newspaper al-Ayyam in Ramallah, and order its staff to stop using their presses to print pro-Hamas publications Filastin, al-Risala and al-Istiqlal. The PA permitted the 3 publications to be distributed in the West Bank starting in late 4/2014, in accordance with the Hamas-Fatah reconciliation deal of 4/23. The IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in Hebron and 2 nearby villages, 1 village and Aida r.c. nr. Bethlehem, and 1 village and al-Jalazun r.c. nr. Ramallah; patrols in 1 village nr. Jenin in the morning, 1 village nr. Jenin in the afternoon, and in 2 villages each nr. Hebron and Jericho at night. In East Jerusalem, groups of right-wing Jewish activists march through the Old City to celebrate “Jerusalem Day,” leading to clashes with Palestinians at Haram al-Sharif. In the clashes, Israeli security forces injure 4 Palestinians with rubber-coated metal bullets, and Palestinians injure 1 security officer with a thrown stone. Israeli police later arrest 2 Palestinian youth in connection with a clash involving several Jewish Israelis elsewhere in the Old City. (AFP, HA, MNA, YA 5/28; PCHR 5/29)

In response to low voter turnout in the Egyptian presidential election, polls are kept open for a 3d day. Following their close, provisional results indicate that al-Sisi won between 89% and 93.4% of the vote, with al-Sisi’s campaign and judicial sources estimating leftist candidate Hamdeen Sabahi won 2.9% and 5%. Judicial sources estimate turnout to be 44.4% of Egypt’s 54 m. eligible voters. Meanwhile, gunmen shoot and kill an Egyptian border guard in Rafah. (AP, MNA, REU 5/28)

In the n. Gaza Strip, IDF troops open fire on Palestinian civilians on the shore nr. the border fence, wounding 1. Off the coast of the Gaza Strip nr. al-Sudaniyya, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats, causing no injuries or damage. In the West Bank, a Palestinian man dies from excessive tear gas inhalation. He was hospitalized after sustaining injuries in his own home while the IDF was raiding Abu Dis on 5/23. The IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in Tulkarm, Tubas, and 1 village each nr. Hebron and Jenin at night; patrols in Hebron and 1 nearby village, and 1 village nr. Bethlehem in the afternoon, and in 2 villages and al-‘Arub r.c. nr. Hebron at night. Jewish settlers cut down 30 almond and olive trees nr. Nablus. (MNA, WAFA 5/26; PCHR 5/29)

Jerusalem municipality approves 50 new housing units in 5 buildings in Har Homa, East Jerusalem. PA spokesperson Nabil Abu Rudayna says the decision is “immoral, illogical, and uncivilized.” (AFP, JP 5/26)

In Egypt, polls open on the 1st of 2 days scheduled for the presidential election. Former head of the Egyptian armed forces Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, who resigned from the military in 3/2014, is widely expected to win a clear majority. (AJ 5/26)

In the Gaza Strip, IDF troops conduct a limited incursion to level land close to the border fence nr. Khan Yunis. In the West Bank, the IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 1 village each nr. Hebron, Qalqilya, and Salfit at night; patrols in 1 village nr. Hebron in the afternoon, and in 2 villages nr. Hebron, and 1 village each nr. Nablus, Ramallah, and Salfit at night. Israeli settlers use bulldozers to level Palestinian-owned land nr. Salfit. (MNA 5/22; PCHR 5/29)

Israeli PM Netanyahu says that “the idea of taking unilateral steps is gaining ground” among Israel’s political class, particularly in light of the collapse of U.S.-led negotiations, in an exclusive interview published by Bloomberg View. Netanyahu’s office subsequently clarifies that this is not a reference to any intention to evacuate settlements. Economy Minister Naftali Bennett welcomes the remarks and urges the adoption of his plan, which would include the annexation of parts of the West Bank. Meanwhile, senior Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) official Hanan Ashrawi condemns talk of unilateral steps as a way to bypass talks, while U.S. State Dept. spokesperson Marie Harf responds to Netanyahu’s remarks by emphasising that “no one should take any steps that undermine trust, including unilateral.” (Bloomberg, HA, YA 5/23)

China and Russia veto a UN Security Council (UNSC) res., drafted by France, referring the Syrian crisis to the International Criminal Court (ICC) for an investigation into possible war crimes. The 13 other mbrs. of the UNSC vote in favor. It is the 4th time that China and Russia have blocked Western-drafted resolutions on Syria since spring 2011. Meanwhile, the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) says that the last 100 tons of Syria’s declared stockpile of precursors for poison gas and nerve agents are ready for transport, but Syrian authorities say it is too dangerous to move them for the time being. (AFP, AP 5/23)

Gunmen kill Shadi al-Manaei, leader of Ansar Bayt al-Maqdis, along with 3 other mbrs. of the Egypt-based militant group, in a drive-by shooting in c. Sinai. Egyptian officials say that the attack is likely revenge for the group’s killing of local tribesmen as “collaborators.” (AP 5/22)

Lawmakers allied with Hizballah boycott a session of Lebanon’s parliament, blocking the body from electing a new pres. This is the 5th failed attempt in the past mo. Lebanon’s current pres., Michael Suleiman, is scheduled to leave office on 5/24, the last day of his 6-year term. (AP 5/22)

In the Gaza Strip, IDF troops conduct a limited incursion close to the border fence nr. Khan Yunis to level land. They are targeted by an explosive device which damages a vehicle but causes no injuries. In response, the soldiers open fire, wounding 1 Palestinian farmer, and fire mortar shells into an open field, causing no injuries. In the West Bank, IDF troops demolish 20 Palestinian-owned structures in n. Jordan Valley village Jiftlik. The IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 3 villages nr. Ramallah, 1 village each nr. Hebron and Nablus and Aida r.c. in Bethlehem at night; patrols in Hebron in the afternoon, and in 2 villages nr. Jericho and al-‘Arub r.c. at night. (MNA 5/21; PCHR 5/22)

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) announces that it has agreed on 5 new transparency measures with Iran, including an investigation into alleged previous efforts to develop atomic weapons. The news follows 2 days of talks in Tehran between an IAEA team and Iranian officials. (AFP, AP 5/21)

In the Sinai Peninsula, a bomb attack targeting a security services’ vehicle kills 1 Egyptian and injures 6 others. (AP, REU 5/21)

In the Gaza Strip, IDF troops open fire on Palestinians collecting raw materials close to the border fence nr. Bayt Hanun, injuring 1. Off the coast nr. Rafah, Israeli naval vessels open fire on Palestinian fishermen, causing no damage, and arrest 2. In the West Bank, the IDF demolishes 9 Palestinian-owned structures in Issawiyya and the E1 area nr. Jerusalem. Meanwhile, IDF soldiers uproot an estimated 600 almond trees nr. Nahalin village nr. Bethlehem. The IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 2 villages and al-Fawar r.c. nr. Hebron and in Jenin at night; patrols in 1 village each nr. Ramallah and Tulkarm in the morning, in 4 villages nr. Jenin and in Tulkarm in the afternoon, and in 2 villages nr. Ramallah and 1 village nr. Hebron at night. Israeli settlers set fire to Palestinianowned land nr. Salfit, damaging around 20 fruit trees. (MNA, UNOCHA 5/19; PCHR 5/22)

In his 1st public comment on the subject since 1/20, Iran’s Pres. Hassan Rouhani says that “in spite of the existing difficulties” he remains hopeful for a comprehensive deal with the P5+1 group over Iran’s disputed nuclear program. (AFP, IRNA 5/19)

In the West Bank, IDF troops shoot and kill 2 Palestinian teenagers outside Ofer prison nr. Ramallah during protests held on the 66th annual day of Nakba commemoration. There are conflicting reports about whether they are shot with live ammunition or rubber-coated metal bullets. Thousands of Palestinians participate in Nakba Day protests across the West Bank and Gaza Strip, including rallies jointly organized by different political factions. In Hebron, IDF troops injure 11 demonstrators with rubber-coated metal bullets. In Gaza City, a large crowd gathers to support of the right of return and to protest continued negotiations with Israel. In East Jerusalem, Israeli police violently disperse a rally, injuring 6. The IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 1 village nr. Nablus at night; patrols in 2 villages nr. Hebron in the afternoon, and in 3 villages nr. Hebron, 2 villages nr. Ramallah and 1 village each nr. Jericho and Qalqilya at night. (AFP, MNA, REU 5/15; PCHR 5/22)

U.S. Secy. of State Kerry meets with Israeli chief negotiator Livni in London, a day after meeting with PA Pres. Abbas. The State Dept. describes the meeting as “informal,” and no details of their discussions are released. (ToI 5/15)

In the Gaza Strip, IDF troops conduct a limited incursion close to the border fence nr. Gaza City to level land. In the West Bank, the IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in al-Fawar r.c., al-‘Arub r.c. and 2 villages nr. Hebron, in Balata r.c. and 1 village nr. Nablus, and in Jalazun r.c. and 1 village nr. Ramallah at night; patrols in 2 villages nr. Ramallah in the morning, and in al-’Arub r.c. and 1 village nr. Hebron at night. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces demolish 3 Palestinian-owned structures in Bayt Hanina, Shu‘fat, and Ras al-Amud. (AFP, MNA 5/14; PCHR 5/15)

U.S. Secy. of State Kerry meets with PA Pres. Abbas in London, where Kerry is attending talks with international partners on Syria and Ukraine. State Dept. spokesperson Psaki subsequently says Kerry made it clear that “while the door remains open to peace, it is up to the parties to determine whether they are willing to take the steps necessary to resume negotiations.” (AP 14/5)

Hamas and Fatah officials meet in Gaza to discuss the makeup of a unity govt., with Hamas chief negotiator Musa Abu Marzuq saying that talks would be finalized the following week. PM Ismail Haniyeh states that Hamas authorities will “clean the road to reconciliation from all obstacles and landmines” and calls on PA authorities in the West Bank “to take the same path and to maintain freedoms.” (HA, MNA 5/14)

Representatives of Iran and the P5+1 countries open negotiations in Vienna, with the goal of reaching a final agreement by 7/20. Substantial gaps remain, including on the future of uranium enrichment in Iran. As an initial step, EU foreign affairs chief Ashton and Iranian FM Zarif meet to put into writing what has already been agreed, as embodied by the 11/2013 interim deal. (HA 5/14)

In the Gaza Strip, Israeli forces open fire on Palestinian farmers and metal-collectors close to the border fence nr. Jabaliya, causing no injuries. In the West Bank, the IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in Nablus in the afternoon, and in 3 villages nr. Hebron at night; patrols in 2 villages nr. Hebron in the morning, in 3 villages nr. Hebron and 1 village nr. Ramallah at night. Jewish settlers assault and injure a Palestinian shepherd nr. Ramallah. Separately, settlers vandalize 50 olive trees nr. Bethlehem and leave racist “price tag” graffiti. (PCHR 5/15)

Fatah official Azzam al-Ahmad arrives in the Gaza Strip for talks with Hamas leaders. They focus on selecting technocrats to lead the unity govt. (MNA, REU 5/13)

Former Israeli PM Olmert is sentenced to 6 years in jail for taking bribes in a real estate deal during his time as mayor of Jerusalem. (Olmert was convicted on 3/31.) The sentence is widely perceived to end his prospects for a political comeback. (REU 5/13)

Lakhdar Brahimi resigns as the UN and Arab League peace envoy for Syria, saying that “because of divisions we have not been able to make any progress in the course of 3 years.” UN Secy.-Gen. Ban Ki-moon accepts the resignation “with great regret.” (AFP 5/13)

Off the coast of the Gaza Strip nr. Khan Yunis, Israeli naval vessels open fire on Palestinian fishermen, causing no damage or injuries. In the West Bank, the IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 2 villages nr. Qalqilya at night; patrols in 1 village nr. Ramallah in the morning, and in 3 villages nr. Hebron and 2 villages nr. Ramallah at night. (PCHR 5/15)

U.S. Special Envoy Martin Indyk blames both Israelis and Palestinians for not being ready to make “gut-wrenching compromises necessary to achieve peace,” in remarks made at the Washington Institute for Near East Peace, a D.C.-based think tank. Indyk also says that U.S. Secy. of State Kerry believes defining borders of a Palestinian state and establishing security arrangements for Israel are “essential” for resuming peace talks. (AFP, HA, REU 5/8)

U.S. National Security Adviser Susan Rice meets with PA Pres. Abbas in Ramallah and tells him that any unity govt. must recognize Israel, renounce violence, and adhere to previous agreements. Meanwhile, Pres. Abbas says in a televised interview that the Palestinians are ready to resume negotiations under the condition that Israel releases the 4th batch of Palestinian prisoners and halts settlement construction for 3 mos. (JP, MNA 5/8)

In the Gaza Strip, IDF troops open fire on armed Palestinians close to the border fence nr. Dayr al-Balah, injuring 1. In the West Bank, the IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 2 villages each nr. Hebron and Nablus at night; patrols in al-‘Arub and 1 village nr. Hebron at night. Meanwhile, shots are fired toward a house in West Bank settlement Psagot, causing no injuries. In Israel, Jewish extremists leave “price tag” graffiti on a Druze-owned dentistry office in Yokneam. In East Jerusalem, a separate “price tag” attack targets Vaticanowned offices with graffiti. (AFP, HA, JP, MNA 5/7; PCHR 5/8)

U.S. National Security Adviser Susan Rice arrives in Jerusalem and holds a meeting with Israeli PM Netanyahu to discuss the Iranian nuclear issue. She also meets Pres. Shimon Peres, and Israel’s National Security Adviser Yossi Cohen. Rice travels with a team that includes U.S. Under Secy. of State Wendy Sherman. Her trip is unrelated to the breakdown in Israeli-Palestinian negotiations. (HA 5/7)

Iranian technical experts and representatives of the P5+1 countries hold talks in New York City. An anonymous EU official describes them as “useful,” ahead of talks beginning 5/13 aimed at reaching a more comprehensive agreement. (AP, REU 5/7)

Off the coast of the Gaza Strip nr. Bayt Lahiya, Israeli naval vessels open fire on Palestinian fishermen, causing damage but no injuries. In the West Bank, the IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 1 village nr. Hebron at night; patrols in 1 village nr. Jenin in the afternoon, and in al-Fawar r.c. and 2 villages nr. Hebron, and 1 village each nr. Bethlehem and Ramallah at night. Jewish settlers uproot 51 olive tree saplings nr. Ramallah. In East Jerusalem, IDF troops clash with residents in Issawiya after erecting a temporary checkpoint, injuring 6 with rubber-coated metal bullets. Also, Israeli forces attack Palestinian worshippers prevented from entering Haram al-Sharif, wounding 15. (MNA, WAFA 5/5; PCHR 5/8)

Israeli newspaper Haaretz reports that Martin Indyk will resign from his position as U.S. special envoy for Israeli-Palestinian negotiations in light of the breakdown in negotiations, citing unnamed Israeli officials. Indyk reportedly blames Israel primarily for the failure, specifically highlighting the consequences of settlement construction. (HA, JTA, ToI 5/5)

PA Pres. Abbas holds talks with Hamas leader Khalid Mish‘al in Doha, and later meets with Qatari emir Shaykh Tamim Bin-Hamad al-Thani. Hamas releases a statement describing the meeting as “positive.” The Palestinian leaders’ discussions focus on the formation of a Palestinian unity govt., which is expected to be formed within 2 weeks. Meanwhile, the Gaza-based Interior Ministry announces that it has freed 6 prisoners from Fatah. (Fatah says that 40 of its mbrs. are still in prison. Hamas puts the number at under 20). Hamas authorities also announce that al-Quds newspaper will be distributed once again in the West Bank starting 5/7. Hamas PM Ismail Haniyeh’s adviser Issa Nashar urges Pres. Abbas to reciprocate the gestures and halt the arrest of Hamas activists in the West Bank. (AFP, JP, MNA, REU 5/5)

An IAEA delegation arrives in Iran to inspect 2 nuclear sites—Saghand uranium mine and the Ardakan yellow-cake production site— as part of the 7-step plan agreed on by representatives of Iran and the IAEA in 2/2014 to increase transparency over the country’s nuclear activities. (AFP 5/5)

Off the coast of the Gaza Strip nr. Khan Yunis, Israeli naval vessels open fire on Palestinian fishermen, causing no damage or injuries. In the West Bank, the IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 2 villages nr. Nablus and 1 village nr. Bethlehem at night; patrols in 1 village nr. Ramallah in the morning, in 1 village nr. Hebron in the afternoon, and in Salfit and 1 nearby village, al-Fawar r.c. and 3 villages nr. Hebron, 2 villages nr. Jericho and 1 village each nr. Bethlehem and Ramallah at night. Jewish settlers destroy 35 olive trees in the Gush Etzion settlement bloc s. of Jerusalem, leaving “price tag” graffiti at the scene. Meanwhile in Israel, a Palestinian citizen’s car is vandalized in Acre with “price tag” graffiti. (HA, MNA 5/4; PCHR 5/8)

The Palestinian Prisoners’ Society says that the number of prisoners on hunger strike against their detention without trial has reached 120, with participating prisoners being held in solitary confinement in the Negev, Ofer, and Megiddo jails. (MNA 5/3)

Senior Hamas official Musa Abu Marzuq says that Hamas will not accept the conditions demanded by the Quartet, including recognition of Israel, in remarks made at a press conference in Gaza City. Abu Marzuq also says that it is likely Hamas will participate in the proposed Palestinian presidential elections. (AFP, MEMO 5/3)

Off the coast of the Gaza Strip nr. Rafah, Israeli naval vessels open fire on Palestinian fishermen, causing no damage or injuries. In the West Bank, the IDF violently disperses stonethrowing Palestinian protesters in Silwad nr. Ramallah, injuring 1 with live ammunition. The IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in Hebron and 3 nearby villages, and 1 village each nr. Nablus and Qalqilya at night; patrols in 3 villages nr. Ramallah in the morning, and in 3 villages and al-‘Arub r.c. nr. Hebron, 2 villages nr. Jericho, Nablus and 1 village and Balata r.c. nearby, and 1 village each nr. Jericho and Qalqilya at night. IDF troops violently disperse Palestinian, Israeli, and international protesters at weekly demonstrations against Israel’s separation wall, settlements, and occupation in 3 villages nr. Ramallah (Bil‘in, Ni‘lin, and Nabi Salih), 1 village nr. Qalqilya (Kafr Qaddum), and 1 village nr. Bethlehem (al-Ma‘sara). There are no serious injuries except in Bil‘in (1 struck by a tear gas canister) and in Kafr Qaddum (2 wounded by bullets). (PCHR 5/8)

Right-wing Jewish extremists vandalize the tomb of Izzeddin al-Qassam in Haifa, leaving “price tag” graffiti that includes the names of U.S. Secy. of State Kerry and Israeli justice minister Livni. (AFP, JP 5/2)

Palestine becomes a formal party to 5 international conventions, banning torture, racial discrimination, promoting women’s rights, children’s rights, and the rights of the disabled. In response, Israel withdraws the VIP passes of 4 senior Fatah officials— Nabil Shaath, Tawfik Tirawi, Abbas Zaki and Jibril Rajub—thereby restricting their status at checkpoints and border crossings to the level of other Palestinian citizens. (AFP, JP, MEMO 5/2)

In s. Sinai, 2 suicide bombing attacks target police at a security checkpoint, killing 1 soldier and wounding at least 8. The attacks are claimed by Ansar Bayt al-Maqdis. (AP, REU 5/2)

In the Gaza Strip, Palestinians fire 1 rocket into s. Israel, causing no damage or injuries. An IDF spokesperson says more than 100 projectiles have hit Israel from Gaza this year. IDF troops conduct a limited incursion to level land close to the border fence nr. Khan Yunis. Off the coast nr. Rafah, Israeli naval vessels open fire on Palestinian fishermen, causing no damage or injuries. In the West Bank, the IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 6 villages nr. Hebron, 1 village nr. Bethlehem, and Nablus and Balata r.c. at night; patrols in 1 village nr. Hebron in the morning, and in 2 villages nr. Ramallah, 1 village and ‘Ayn al-Sultan r.c. nr. Jericho, and 1 village nr. Hebron at night. Jewish settlers uproot 50 olive tree saplings nr. Bethlehem, while separately, settlers also stone Palestinian vehicles nr. Hebron. (AFP, MNA, WAFA 5/1; PCHR 5/8)

U.S. Secy. of State Kerry tells reporters on a trip to Ethiopia that he intends to “pause” and “take a hard look” at the Israeli-Palestinian negotiations, given the current impasse. He says he is “convinced that, as each [side] sort of works through the reasons that things began to become more difficult in the final hours, there may be quiet ways within which to begin to work on next steps.” He also claims that genuine “progress” was made during the previous 9 mos. (HA, REU 5/1)

Israeli PM Netanyahu says he intends to seek a new Basic Law anchoring Israel’s status as “the nation-state of the Jewish people.” Livni, leader of the Hatnua party and Israeli chief negotiator, criticizes the move, but the Jewish Home party, another coalition-mbr., welcomes it. (HA, REU 5/1)

In the Gaza Strip, Israeli forces open fire on Palestinians collecting scrap metal close to the border fence nr. Bayt Hanun, wounding 1. In the West Bank, the IDF wound 1 Palestinian during clashes in Nablus during a patrol designed to protect the movement of Jewish settlers. IDF troops demolish 2 houses in al- ‘Arub r.c. nr. Hebron, prompting clashes with residents. Three are injured by rubber-coated metal bullets. IDF troops also fire tear gas into the grounds of 2 schools in al-Khadir, nr. Bethlehem. The IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in Hebron and 2 nearby villages, and in 1 village nr. Jenin at night; patrols in 2 villages nr. Hebron, in Tulkarm and 1 nearby village, and 1 village nr. Jericho at night. In Israel, a car owned by a Palestinian citizen is vandalized, the 6th such hate crime in the town over the last mo. Meanwhile, residents of Furaydis hold a general strike to protest the “price tag” attack on 4/29, where racist graffiti was sprayed on a mosque. Israeli PM Netanyahu condemns the attack and says that the govt. is tackling those responsible. (HA, MNA, WAFA 4/30; PCHR 5/8)

Senior Palestinian official Shaath says that the Palestinian leadership will look to take action at the international level, in light of the breakdown in negotiations he says were foiled by Israel. (WAFA 4/30)

Fatah official Azzam al-Ahmad says that PA Pres. Abbas will issue a presidential decree to convene the Palestinian Legislative Council— which has not convened since 2007—while elections will not take place for another 6 mos. Hamas and Fatah officials reactivate a subcmte. on civil liberties, as part of the implementation of the reconciliation agreement. Topics for the new subcmte. to deal with include the end of a ban on West Bank newspapers in Gaza. Meanwhile, around 1,000 Hamas supporters march through Ramallah, marking the return of the remains of 2 Hamas fighters killed by Israel in 1998. Speaking to mourners by telephone, Hamas leader Khalid Mish‘al affirms that the organization’s “path is resistance and the rifle,” and that Palestinians were in need of a joint, unified strategy to secure the “liberation of our lands and holy sites.” (AFP, JP, MEMO, MNA, REU 4/30)

Off the coast of the Gaza Strip nr. Bayt Lahiya, Israeli naval vessels open fire on Palestinian fishermen, wounding 1. In the West Bank, the IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 1 village nr. Hebron and Dahaysha r.c. in Bethlehem at night; patrols in 2 villages nr. Ramallah in the morning, 1 village nr. Hebron in the afternoon, and in al-‘Arub r.c. and 2 villages nr. Hebron and 1 village nr. Tulkarm at night. (MNA 4/26; PCHR 4/30)

PA Pres. Abbas says he would be willing to extend negotiations if Israel released the last round of prisoners and agreed to a settlement construction freeze, in a televised speech to the PLO Central Council in Ramallah. Abbas also says that the unity govt. will “obey my policy,” namely of recognition of Israel and rejecting “violence and terrorism.” An unnamed Israeli official tells AFP that with his speech, Abbas “administered the coup de grâce to the peace process.” (AFP, MNA, REU 4/26)

In the Gaza Strip, Israeli forces open fire on an open area nr. Bayt Hanun, causing no damage or injuries. Off the coast nr. Khan Yunis, Israeli naval vessels open fire on Palestinian fishermen, causing no damage or injuries. In the West Bank, the IDF clash with Palestinians in Hebron, wounding 4 with rubber-coated metal bullets. Meanwhile, Palestinians throw Molotov cocktails at a vehicle driven by a Jewish settler nr. Nablus, causing no injuries. The IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in Hebron and 1 village nr. Ramallah at night; patrols in Hebron and 2 nearby villages and 1 village nr. Qalqilya in the afternoon, and in Jenin and 2 villages each nr. Hebron and Qalqilya at night. (MNA 3/17; PCHR 3/20)

PA Pres. Abbas meets with U.S. Pres. Obama in the White House, with the American leader urging both Abbas and Israeli PM Netanyahu to take “risks” for peace. In a joint press conference, Abbas says that a scheduled Israeli release of Palestinian prisoners would indicate Netanyahu’s commitment to the peace negotiations. (AFP, HA 3/17)

U.S. Secy. of State Kerry announces a new special envoy for Syria, with career diplomat Daniel Rubinstein succeeding the retired Robert Ford. (AP 3/17)

In the Gaza Strip, an Egyptian-brokered truce between Israel and Islamic Jihad is secured. A leader of the Palestinian group, Khaled al-Batsh, writes on Facebook that “intensive Egyptian contacts and efforts” mean a restoration of “the agreement for calm . . . in accordance with understandings reached [on 11/21/12] in Cairo,” a reference to the end of Operation Pillar of Defense. Hamas Dep. FM Ghazi Hamad says that Egypt deliberately ignored the govt. in Gaza and communicated directly with Islamic Jihad, a claim corroborated by an anonymous Egyptian security official. Following the cease-fire, the Popular Resistance Cmte. (PRC) fires 8 rockets into s. Israel, causing no damage or injuries. In response, the Israeli air force conducts air strikes against 4 sites in Rafah and Jabaliya, targeting a PRC training camp and Izzeddin alQassam Brigades sites, causing damage but no injuries, except in Rafah, where 3 civilians are injured. In the West Bank, IDF troops wound 2 Palestinians during a clash with mourners at a funeral in Bayt Umar nr. Hebron. The IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 1 village nr. Qalqilya in the afternoon; patrols in 3 villages, al-‘Arub r.c. and al-Fawar r.c. nr. Hebron at night. (AFP, HA, MNA, REU, WAFA 13/3; PCHR 3/20)

Israeli science minister Yaakov Peri says that unless Palestinians agree to an extension of peace talks, it would be difficult for Israel to go ahead with a scheduled 4th prisoner release. Israeli FM Lieberman says that “negotiations should be extended to the end of the year at least.” Separately, Israeli authorities approve construction permits for 387 housing units in Ramat Shlomo settlement in East Jerusalem, part of the 1,500 unit-plan approved in 2/2012 by the Jerusalem municipality. Meanwhile, U.S. Secy. of State Kerry tells the House Foreign Relations Cmte. that PM Netanyahu’s insistence on a public statement of recognition from the Palestinians of Israel as a Jewish state is “a mistake.” (AIC, AFP 3/13; JP 3/14)

Off the coast of the Gaza Strip nr. Rafah, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats, while separately, Israeli forces fire 2 missiles that land close to the Egypt border fence, causing no injuries. Separately, off the coast nr. Bayt Lahiya, Israeli naval vessels open fire on Palestinian fishermen, causing no damage or injuries. In the West Bank, Jewish settlers attack a school in Burim village nr. Nablus. The settlers, along with IDF troops, subsequently clash with Palestinians, leaving 6 villagers injured. Separately, a Molotov cocktail is thrown at a settler’s car in the same area. The IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in Dahaysha r.c. in Bethlehem and Al-‘Ubaydiyya village nr. Bethlehem at night; patrols in 3 villages nr. Ramallah and 1 village nr. Hebron in the afternoon, and in 2 villages nr. Hebron at night. (MNA 2/20; PCHR 2/27)

U.S. Secy. of State Kerry and PA Pres. Abbas meet for a 2d day in Paris. An unnamed State Dept. official characterizes the talks as “constructive.” PA spokesperson Nabil Abu Rudayna tells Palestinian media that there can be no agreement, whether framework or final, that does not include Arab positions based on international resolutions, in a reference to the 2002 Arab League peace initiative. Meanwhile, senior Palestinian official Nabil Shaath says that he held separate, and secret, meetings with diplomats from Italy, Norway, Austria, and the UK, to discuss the ongoing negotiations. (AFP, AP, MNA, REU 2/20)

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) reports that amounts of enriched uranium in Iran’s stockpile have decreased significantly for the 1st time in 4 years, and also confirms that Iran is meeting its commitments under the 6-mo. interim agreement signed in 11/2013. Meanwhile, representatives of Iran and the P5+1 countries end talks with a framework for future negotiations and an agreement to hold their next meeting in Vienna on 3/17. However, little progress is made in this most recent meeting on the question of identifying Iranian concessions to be exchanged for a reduction in sanctions. Separately, the UK and Iran resume diplomatic relations, which were severed in 11/2011 when students ransacked the British embassy in Tehran. Bilateral relations will now be conducted directly “through non-resident charge d’affaires and officials,” according to a UK Foreign Office spokesperson. (AFP, AP, REU 2/20)

Egyptian military forces kill 10 suspected militants in a raid on Shaykh Zuwayd in n. Sinai, a death toll that officials claim includes senior mbrs. of Ansar Bayt al-Maqdis. (AP 2/20)