The Palestine Chronology

In the West Bank, a Palestinian man from East Jerusalem driving with Israeli license plates on his car is shot and killed in a drive-by shooting near the Ofra settlement north of Ramallah; it is unclear who the assailants are. Israeli settlers uproot 250 olive trees in Khallet al-Nahlah. Israeli settlers also assault several farmers and steal agricultural equipment in Maeen in the Masafer Yatta area. Elsewhere, Israeli settlers raid al-Juwaya in the Masafer Yatta area and Shuwe’er in the Jordan Valley, assaulting Palestinians. Israeli forces raid Jenin, killing 7 Palestinians in a drone strike in Jenin; 1 Israeli soldier is killed and 3 others are injured when an explosive device hits their car during the raid. Israeli forces also shoot and kill 3 Palestinians, including a 3-year-old girl, at a checkpoint near Beit Iksa; Israel claims the 2 adults had rammed and injured an Israeli soldier and says the girl was accidentally shot and killed and was in a different car not related to the alleged ramming incident. Elsewhere, Israeli forces shoot and kill a Palestinian man and injure another during a raid in Abwein. Israeli forces also assault a Palestinian near Deir Sharaf. In Gaza, Israeli forces bomb Khan Yunis, Maghazi, Faluja, Jabalia refugee camp, Nuseirat refugee camp, Dayr al-Balah, and Rafah, killing at least 85 people, including Al Jazeera Gaza bureau chief Wael Dahdouh’s son Hamza, who is also a journalist, and his colleague Mustafa Thuraya in an airstrike on their car in Khan Yunis. Israel has targeted Dahdouh and his family previously, killing his wife, 2 of his other children, and a grandchild among other relatives in October and injured Dahdouh in December. Medical Aid for Palestinians and the International Rescue Committee say their staff have been forced to evacuate al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital due to Israel declaring the area around the hospital a “red zone.” Rockets are fired at Sderot, Yakhini and Nirim, lightly injuring 1 in Yakhini. In Lebanon, Hezbollah militants fire a missile at an Israeli tank across the Blue Lin near Metula. Israeli forces attack Aita al-Shaab, Bint Jbeil, and Majdal Zoun. (AJ, AJ, AJ, AP, HA, HA, HA, HA, HA, NYT, NYT, REU, REU, REU, UNOCHA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 1/7; AJ, AP, WAFA 1/8)

More than 22,835 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces in Gaza, including at least 8,800 children and 6,300 women, and around 58,416 have been injured since 10/7. At least 7,000 people are missing in rubble, including 1,700 children. 330 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces and settlers in the West Bank and East Jerusalem since 10/7, including 81 children. More than 4,042 people have been injured. Israel reports that 1,139 Israelis and foreign nationals have been killed and 5,400 have been injured since 10/7, including Israeli soldiers. In addition, 174 Israeli soldiers have been killed and 1,023 injured in Gaza since the ground invasion began on 10/27. Over 1.93 million Palestinians, nearly 85% of the population of Gaza, have been displaced since 10/7. There has been a complete electricity blackout in Gaza since 10/12 due to the Israeli blockade. As of 12/23, at least 65,000 housing units had been destroyed and 290,000 had been damaged in Israeli airstrikes since 10/7, constituting over 60% of all housing units. 102 trucks carrying aid enter Gaza via the Rafah and Karim Abu Salem (Kerem Shalom) crossings. (UNOCHA, UNOCHA 1/7)

WAFA reports that the Israeli-run Jerusalem municipality has approved the Silicon Valley settlement project, to be built on the Wadi al-Juz industrial area in East Jerusalem, and approved a landfill near Isawiya. (WAFA 1/7)

Save the Children says more than 1,000 Palestinian children in Gaza have had 1 or both legs amputated after being hit by Israeli bombs, many of the amputations are done without anesthetics. Save the Children notes that on average 10 children are subject to amputations every day. The WHO says it has canceled plans to bring medical supplies to northern Gaza because “[h]eavy bombardment, movement restrictions, and interrupted communications, makes it too dangerous. UNRWA says 142 of its staff have been killed since 10/7. (HA, UNOCHA, WAFA 1/7; REU 1/8)

Authorities in Gaza call on Egypt to open the Rafah crossing further to allow more wounded Palestinians into Egypt, noting that 6,000 people are awaiting approval to cross to Egypt while 10-20 wounded people are evacuated daily. Hamas official Osama Hamdan says Israel has destroyed more than 200 heritage sites in Gaza and calls on the OIC, the Arab League, and the African Union to support South Africa’s filing at the ICJ. (AJ, HA 1/7; AJ 1/8)

The Euro-Med Human Rights Monitor releases a report based on testimonies from Palestinians abducted by Israeli forces in Gaza and taken to Israel, saying civilians were tortured in detention, including being beaten, subject to electric shocks, burned with cigarettes, and tied up in stress positions. Euro-Med says many of the Palestinians taken from Gaza are being held at the Sde Teiman camp between Gaza and Beersheba in what was described as a Guantanamo-like prison. (Euro-Med 1/7)

Israeli military chief of staff Herzi Halevi says Israel will be fighting in Gaza all year. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant tells the Wall Street Journal that Hezbollah leaders “know we can copy-paste [Israel’s attacks on Gaza] to Beirut,” adding Israel’s priority is not a war in Lebanon. (AJ, HA, WSJ 1/7; AJ, HA 1/8)

Israeli national security minister Itamar Ben-Gvir reiterates his calls for the displacement of Palestinians in Gaza to other countries and the resettlement of Gaza. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich calls Palestinians in Gaza “Nazis,” saying Israel must resettle Gaza. (HA, HA 1/7; AJ, AP 1/8)

U.S. secretary of state Antony Blinken meets with Qatar prime minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani in Doha, discussing the situation in Gaza and the Red Sea. Blinken calls the killing of Hamza Dahdouh (see above) an “unimaginable tragedy” and says Palestinians in Gaza must be allowed to return to their homes and “must not be pressed to leave Gaza.” Al Thani says the Israeli assassination of Saleh al-Arouri in Beirut has affected Qatari mediation efforts but that the negotiations continue. Blinken also meets with Jordanian king Abdullah II and foreign minister Ayman Safadi in Amman. King Abdullah II warns Blinken of “catastrophic repercussions” if Israel’s war on Gaza continues. (AJ, AJ, AJ, AP, HA, HA, REU, REU, WAFA 1/7; AJ, HA 1/8)

Israeli MK Ofer Cassif signs the petition filed by South Africa to the ICJ, accusing Israel of genocide in Gaza. Several other members of Knesset call for his removal. Cassif says he signed the petition as part of his constitutional duty to Israeli society. (JP 1/7; AJ, HA 1/8)

Israel appoints former Supreme Court president Aharon Barak to represent Israel at the ICJ hearings on the Israeli genocide in Gaza. Bolivia endorses South Africa’s case at the ICJ. (HA, HA 1/7; AJ, AP, HA, NYT 1/8)

Israeli news website Globes reports that the fourth largest shipping company in the world, Chinese COSCO, has suspended shipments to Israel due to the attacks by Yemen’s Houthi governments on ships bound for Israel. (HA 1/7)

The Washington Post reports that U.S. president Joe Biden has tasked his staff with preventing an all-out war between Israel and Hezbollah. The Post says U.S. officials are worried that Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu sees an escalation with Hezbollah as a way to stay in power. A Defense Intelligence Agency report saying that Israel would have trouble winning a war against Hezbollah while fighting in Gaza is also leaked to the press. (HA 1/8)

Along Gaza’s border, Israeli forces conduct a limited incursion to level land near Bayt Hanun. They also open fire on 2 Palestinian children approaching the border fence near Gaza City and Palestinian farmlands near Dayr al-Balah, causing no damage or injuries. In the West Bank, Israeli forces dismantle a Palestinian elementary school in Khirbat al-Simia near Hebron. The school was put together recently and comprised a number of mobile, makeshift classrooms. IDF troops shoot and injure 3 Palestinians during clashes sparked by a raid in Jenin refugee camp; arrest 11 Palestinians and issue 1 arrest summons during additional raids near Bethlehem, Hebron, Ramallah, and Jenin; and patrol near Nablus, Jenin, and Hebron. An Israeli settler driver runs over a Palestinian outside the Efrat settlement near Bethlehem, causing minor injuries. It’s unclear if the collision was an intentional ramming attack. IDF troops shoot and injure 2 Palestinian minors on their way home from school in al-Jaba‘. In East Jerusalem, 152 right-wing Jewish activists tour Haram al-Sharif. (MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, WAFA, WAFA 12/5; PCHR 12/6)

PA foreign minister Riyad al-Maliki submits a formal complaint to the ICC calling for chief prosecutor Fatou Bensouda to expedite her preliminary examination into alleged war crimes committed in the occupied Palestinian territories. Bensouda initiated her examination shortly after the Palestinians acceded to the Rome Statue on 1/2/15. Later, Bensouda’s office responds, saying that they have made significant progress toward a decision on whether or not to open a full investigation. (HA, JP, MNA, TOI, WAFA 12/5)

Hundreds of Palestinians gather along Gaza’s north coast to continue the Great March of Return and to cheer on approximately 30 Palestinian boats sailing in a symbolic challenge to the Israeli blockade. IDF troops and Israeli naval forces violently disperse the demonstrations; at least 30 Palestinians are injured. Meanwhile, Israeli forces conduct a limited incursion across Gaza’s border fence to level land near Dayr al-Balah and open fire on a Palestinian bird-hunter approaching the border fence near Bayt Hanun. In East Jerusalem, Israeli MK Yehuda Glick leads a group of 40 right-wing Jewish activists on a tour of Haram al-Sharif. A Palestinian demolishes his storehouse, parking area, and staircase in Silwan to avoid paying Israeli demolition fees. In the West Bank, Israeli forces demolish 2 Palestinian homes and a sheep barn in Fasayil village near Jericho. IDF troops shut down the main street in Bayt Umar while they conduct raids in the village, sparking clashes with stone-throwing Palestinians; there are no reported injuries. They also arrest 20 Palestinians and issue 1 arrest summons during late-night raids near Ramallah, Bethlehem, Tubas, Hebron, Nablus; and patrol in and around Nablus, Jenin, and Hebron. (MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 12/3; MNA 12/4; PCHR 12/6)

The IDF launches a major military operation, dubbed Operation Northern Shield, aimed at exposing and demolishing tunnels stretching from southern Lebanon into northern Israel. Hezbollah has reportedly built a network of such tunnels since 2006. Kicking off the operation, Israeli forces uncover a tunnel stretching 40 meters into Israel and booby-trap it to prevent anyone from entering from the Lebanese side. (HA, JP, JP, TOI, YA 12/4)

Hours before the launch of Operation Northern Shield, Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu meets with U.S. secretary of state Mike Pompeo in Brussels to discuss recent developments in the Middle East, including Iran’s nuclear program. Netanyahu reportedly tells Pompeo about Operation Northern Shield and asks him to tell the Lebanese government that they need to stop Hezbollah from acquiring precision-guided missiles. (HA, JP, TOI, TOI 12/3)

Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops shoot and injure a Palestinian farmer working near al-Bureij refugee camp. It’s unclear why they opened fire. Separately, Israeli forces conduct a limited incursion to level land near Dayr al-Balah. In the West Bank, IDF troops violently disperse dozens of Palestinians gathering to plant olive trees outside Urif village near Nablus; 5 Palestinians are injured (the mass planting was organized by Fatah and the local Palestinian authorities as a protest against the Israeli occupation). Separately, IDF troops violently disperse Palestinian journalists at a protest organized by the International Federation of Journalists at Qalandia checkpoint near Ramallah; there are no serious injuries. They also arrest 3 Palestinians during raids near Bethlehem; and patrol near Hebron and Nablus. Israeli settlers assault a Palestinian family picking olives near Hebron, causing no serious injuries. A separate group of settlers throws stones at a Palestinian ambulance in central Hebron, breaking the windshield. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 2 Palestinians during late-night raids in Silwan. (MNA, MNA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 11/17; MNA 11/18; PCHR 11/22)

Israeli drones bomb a group of Palestinians allegedly launching incendiary kites and balloons into southern Israel near al-Bureij refugee camp; there are no reported injuries. On the other side of the border fence, Israeli firefighters put out 2 fires allegedly sparked by such attacks. This marks the first instance of Palestinians launching such incendiary devices into Israel since 10/25. Also along Gaza’s border, IDF troops open fire on Palestinian minors approaching the border fence near Dayr al-Balah; 1 Palestinian is injured. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Jabaliya refugee camp, causing no damage or injuries. In the West Bank, Israeli forces deliver a stop-work order to a Palestinian home and 3 makeshift residential structures under construction near Salfit. They also demolish 2 Palestinian residential structures in Yatta near Hebron and confiscate 2 tractors from Palestinian agricultural land near Tubas. IDF troops arrest 12 Palestinians during raids in and around Ramallah, Jenin, Hebron, and Bethlehem; and patrol near Jenin, Nablus, and Hebron. Israeli settlers assault and injure 2 Palestinians and smash the windows of a Palestinian store in central Hebron. Palestinian witnesses say that the settlers assaulted the first Palestinian after he objected to their loud music and use of foul language. (MNA, MNA, MNA, TOI, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 10/31; PCHR, WAFA 11/1)

The Palestinian and Israeli press reports that Israel has agreed to allow Qatar to transfer money to Hamas to pay the salaries of the civil servants working for its government, in Gaza. It’s unclear if Israel has agreed in principle or if an agreement has been signed. Separately, Palestinian sources say that significant progress has been made in the Egypt-mediated talks toward a long-term cease-fire between Hamas and Israel. They don’t offer details, but they point to recent trust-building steps taken by both sides, including Israel’s decision to allow transfers of diesel fuel into Gaza for the area’s sole power plant and Hamas’s efforts to limit the violence at the ongoing Great March of Return protests. (HA, YA 10/31)

Israeli defense minister Avigdor Lieberman announces that he has ordered Gaza’s fishing zone expanded to 6 nautical miles off the northern coast and 9 nautical miles off the southern coast. Lieberman reduced the fishing zone to 3 nautical miles on 10/17 after rocket fire from Gaza. Sources in the defense minister’s office say that the move comes in the context of the Israeli government’s efforts to maintain calm along Gaza’s border fence. (AS, YA 10/31)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces demolish 3 Palestinian residential structures and confiscate solar panels from Khirbet al-Halawa near Hebron. They also deliver stop-work orders to 2 Palestinian homes under construction near Hebron; patrol near Nablus and Hebron; and arrest 13 Palestinians during late-night raids in and around Tulkarm and Nablus. Israeli settlers uproot approximately 40 olive trees in a Palestinian grove near Hebron. Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops violently disperse dozens of Palestinians gathering along the border fence near Dayr al-Balah to continue the Great March of Return; 5 Palestinians are injured. Separately, Israeli forces conduct a limited incursion to level land near Bayt Lahiya. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 1 Palestinian during a raid in Abu Dis. (MNA, WAFA, WAFA 10/9; MNA 10/10; PCHR 10/11)

The first shipment of Qatari-funded diesel fuel—450,000 liters on 6 trucks—enters Gaza to supply the region’s only power plant. The shipment was previously blocked on 10/4, allegedly due to PA president Abbas’s interference, and it is reportedly going forward today without PA approval. A UN spokesperson says that 7 more truckloads of fuel are set to enter Gaza on 10/10, with the goal of 15 truckloads entering per day. “In addition to other long-term efforts underway to increase the energy supply, additional fuel for the Gaza Power Plant remains the fastest and most immediate way to increase electricity and help alleviate the humanitarian and related public health needs on the ground,” the spokesperson says. Meanwhile, Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu blames PA president Mahmoud Abbas for “suffocating” Gaza. “I am trying to find a solution that will restore quiet and security,” he says. “I am not interested in getting into needless wars.” A Hamas spokesperson rejects allegations that Hamas will benefit from the $60 million that Qatar recently pledged to support Gaza. “The funds that came from Qatar through international associations are directed to the Gaza power plant in a move to partially ease [the burden] on Gazans in terms of electricity,” he says. “Hamas has absolutely nothing to do with the money.” (MNA, HA, HA, JP, TOI, YA 10/9)

A U.S. State Department spokesperson comments on the case of U.S.-Palestinian student Lara Alqasem, who the Israeli authorities denied entry to Israel and have detained since 10/2. “We are aware of her case. Our embassy is providing consular access as we would to all American citizens,” she says. “Ultimately it is up to the government of Israel to decide who it wants to let into the country.” Later, Israel’s Strategic Affairs Minister Gilad Erdan says he would reconsider allowing Alqasem entry if she publicly condemns the BDS movement. (HA, HA, TOI 10/9) 

Hundreds of Palestinians gather along Gaza’s border to continue the Great March of Return. IDF troops violently disperse them near Gaza City, Bayt Hanun, and Jabaliya refugee camp; 1 Palestinian is killed and at least 32 are injured. This brings the death toll stemming from the Great March of Return to 167. Meanwhile, Israeli firefighters put out 2 fires in open areas in southern Israel that were allegedly sparked by incendiary kites and balloons flown from Gaza. Israeli forces stationed along the border fence arrest a Palestinian allegedly attempting to cross into Israel armed with a knife near Jabaliya refugee camp; conduct a limited incursion late at night to level land near Dayr al-Balah. In the West Bank, Israeli settlers uproot approximately 40 olive trees in a Palestinian grove near Ramallah; set fire to a Palestinian-owned home in central Hebron, causing major damage. An Israeli settler driver allegedly rams a Palestinian at a checkpoint near Ramallah, causing major injuries. Meanwhile, IDF troops arrest 11 Palestinians during raids in and around Ramallah, Bethlehem, Salfit, Nablus, and Qalqilya; and patrol near Jenin and Hebron. An IDF raid in Qalqilya sparks minor clashes with stone-throwing residents; there are no reported injuries. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 2 Palestinians during raids in the Old City. (MNA, MNA, WAFA, WAFA 10/3; MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, PCHR 10/4)

Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops violently disperse hundreds of Palestinians gathering near Gaza City, Rafah, Dayr al-Balah, and Khan Yunis to continue the Great March of Return for a 6th day in a row; 1 Palestinian is killed and at least 9 are injured. This brings the death toll stemming from the Great March of Return to 156. Separately, unidentified Palestinians fly a number of incendiary balloons across the border fence into southern Israel near the Kerem Shalom border crossing, causing no damage or injuries. IDF troops arrest 2 Palestinians allegedly attempting to cut through the border fence near Gaza City. In East Jerusalem, approximately 40 right-wing Jewish activists tour Haram al-Sharif to commemorate Yom Kippur. In the West Bank, IDF troops confront Palestinian schoolchildren on their way to class in Hebron, sparking minor clashes; there are no serious injuries reported. They also assault and injure 2 Palestinians during raids in Hebron late at night; arrest 3 Palestinians during late-night raids near Jenin and Ramallah; and patrol in and around Hebron and Nablus. (HA, MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, TOI, WAFA 9/19; MNA, MNA, MNA, WAFA 9/20)

After a meeting of the Israeli security cabinet, an Egypt- and UN-backed cease-fire between Israel and Hamas goes into effect. It is reportedly based on the principles of the cease-fire deal that halted Operation Protective Edge, Israel’s 2014 assault on Gaza, and it provides for a cessation of all hostilities. The Israeli cabinet reportedly approved the agreement in principle on 8/12 and only met today to review the details one last time. Earlier, Israeli DM Lieberman announced the reopening of the Kerem Shalom border crossing (effectively lifting the last of the restrictions the Israeli authorities imposed on 7/9) and the expansion of the fishing zone off Gaza’s coast to nine nautical miles, up from as few as three at the peak of the Israeli crackdown. “The opening of the Kerem Shalom crossing, after four days of quiet, is intended to indicate to the population in Gaza that maintaining quiet is first and foremost an interest for Gaza’s residents,” he says. (EI, HA, JP, MNA, TOI, WAFA, YA 8/15; AHR, MNA, TOI 8/16)

Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Bayt Lahiya and Dayr al-Balah, causing no damage or injuries. In the West Bank, Israeli settlers assault a Palestinian farmer outside Salfit, preventing him from working his land. They also break into a Palestinian home in central Hebron and violently attack 2 Palestinian minors; there are no reported injuries. IDF troops conduct raids in central Hebron, sparking clashes with stone-throwing Palestinian minors; 1 Palestinian is injured. They arrest 5 Palestinians and issue 1 arrest summons during further raids near Jericho, Ramallah, Bethlehem, and Qalqilya; and patrol in and around Hebron and Qalqilya. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces demolish a Palestinian residential building under construction in Issawiyya. They also detain 9 Palestinian women at Haram al-Sharif for undisclosed reasons (8 are released later in the day and banned from the sanctuary for 15 days); and arrest 4 Palestinians and issue 1 arrest summons during late-night raids in Silwan, Ras al-Amud, Sur Bahir, and the Old City. (MNA, WAFA 8/15; MNA, PCHR 8/16; PCHR 8/30)

The Palestinian Central Council convenes in Ramallah for its 29th regular meeting. The PLO body discusses a variety of issues related to statehood, including the stalled national reconciliation process, and plans to meet again on 8/16. In a speech kicking off the meetings, PA president Abbas says that Hamas is not serious about reconciliation. “Hamas principally does not have intentions to achieve reconciliation,” he says. Abbas also criticizes the Trump administration’s peace efforts and reiterates that he wants to unify the West Bank and Gaza with “one government, one law, and one legitimate force without militias.” (TOI, WAFA 8/15)

The Israel Land Authority (ILA) publishes tenders for the construction of 602 new housing units in the Ramat Shlomo settlement of East Jerusalem. The 603 units are part of a larger development plan that dates back to 2010. The ILA separately reaches a $380 million agreement with the Jerusalem Municipality for a series of development projects across the city, including 20,000 new housing units. The Jerusalem City Council is expected to approve the plan next week. (HA, YA 8/15)

Breaking the hours-old cease-fire in Gaza, the IAF conducts air strikes on a number of sites across Gaza reportedly used as staging areas for incendiary kite and balloon attacks; 6 Palestinians are injured. The IDF says that it detected mortar fire from Gaza overnight, and that the renewed air strikes were a response to Palestinians breaking the cease-fire. Israeli drones strike 3 more sites in near Bayt Hanun and Rafah later in the day, injuring 3 Palestinians. Throughout the day, unidentified Palestinians fly incendiary kites and balloons across the border fence into Israel, sparking at least 17 fires. Meanwhile, an explosion in Gaza City kills 2 Palestinians and injures 3 others. One of the deceased was the commander of a rocket unit in al-Aqsa Martyrs Brigade, an armed group affiliated with Fatah, sparking rumors that Israel was responsible for the explosion. The Palestinian press reports the explosion as a “work accident.” Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Dayr al-Balah and Jabaliya refugee camp, causing no damage or injuries. In the West Bank, Israeli forces place two new iron gates at the entrances to Khan al-Ahmar, the Bedouin village near Jerusalem slated for evacuation and demolition. They also demolish 2 rooms in Palestinian-owned buildings near Nablus. IDF troops arrest 7 Palestinians during morning raids in Jalazun refugee camp near Ramallah, sparking clashes with stone-throwing Palestinians (4 Palestinians are injured). They also arrest 6 Palestinians during late-night raids near Bethlehem, Jenin, and Salfit; and patrol near Hebron. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 1 Palestinian during a raid in Hizma and clash with stone-throwing Palestinian minors during a raid in al-Ram. (AHR, JP, MNA, TOI, WAFA, YA 7/15; MNA 7/16; PCHR 7/19)

Israeli sources say that the cease-fire reached on 7/14 includes a stipulation that Hamas and PIJ will gradually stop the incendiary kite and balloon attacks. “If in the past, 50 balloons were flown every time, for example, then now 20 balloons will be flown, tomorrow 10, and the next day less,” the source says. “That’s the agreement, and that is what has been decided between the sides.” Later, Netanyahu denies the report. “I heard it being said that Israel has agreed to a cease-fire that would allow the continuation of terrorism by incendiary kites and balloons; this is incorrect,” he says. “We are not prepared to accept any attacks against us, and we will respond appropriately.” Hamas officials say that the cease-fire covers rockets and mortars, but not incendiary kites and balloons. (JP, WAFA, YA 7/15)

After a second day of clashes and confrontations at Khan al-Ahmar, a Bedouin village near Jerusalem slated for evacuation and demolition, Israel’s High Court of Justice issues a temporary freeze on the demolition orders amid a dispute over land ownership. During the clashes, 3 international activists are detained and 4 vehicles belonging to activists and journalists are impounded. Meanwhile, The UK, France, Germany, Italy, and Spain jointly convey a formal protest to the Israeli authorities over their plans to demolish the village, warning that such demolitions make a two-state solution less viable. UN officials also protest the demolition plan. UK, Italian, Swedish, Belgian, Norwegian, Finnish, Danish, Swiss, German, Spanish, and Irish diplomats all visit Khan al-Ahmar today. The IDF blocks them from seeing the community’s 10-year-old schoolhouse, which was made from tires. (ALM, HA, JP, MNA, TOI, WAFA, YA 7/5; EI, HA, JP, MNA, WAFA, YA 7/6)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces confiscate a length of water pipe in Bardala village near Jericho and a residential tent outside Susiya near Hebron. They also patrol near Nablus, Tulkarm, Qalqilya, and Hebron. Israeli settlers cut down 350 grapevines in Palestinian farmland near Bethlehem. They leave racist graffiti at the scene as well. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces demolish 4 agricultural buildings, a gas station, and a car wash in Hizma village and arrest 2 Palestinians during raids in Issawiyya and the Old City. Along Gaza’s border fence, IDF troops open fire on a Palestinian riding a motorcycle near Dayr al-Balah, causing no damage or injuries. In Gaza, an Israeli drone bombs a Palestinian motorcycle in Dayr al-Balah, destroying the vehicle and causing no injuries. (HA, JP, MNA, WAFA 7/5; HA 7/6; PCHR 7/12)

Along Gaza’s border fence, a number of Palestinians cross into Israel near Rafah and set fire to an abandoned IDF post, causing damage. They return to Gaza before the IDF can mobilize. Late at night, IDF troops open fire on Palestinian farmland near Dayr al-Balah, causing no serious damage. Meanwhile, Israeli firefighters put out at least 12 fires in southern Israel apparently sparked by incendiary kites flown from Gaza. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Bayt Lahiya, causing no damage or injuries. In the West Bank, IDF troops confiscate 2 vehicles during a raid near Tubas. They assault and arrest 1 Palestinian during a raid in Dahaysha refugee camp near Bethlehem; arrest 5 more Palestinians during raids in Hebron and Qalqilya; and patrol near Hebron and Nablus. Israeli forces visit the Bedouin community Khan al-Ahmar near Jerusalem to take measurements and prepare for the planned evacuation and demolition of the village. (JP, TOI, WAFA 7/1; HA 7/2; PCHR 7/5)

In the West Bank, thousands of Israeli settlers gather at the illegal Netiv Ha’avot settlement outpost near Bethlehem to protest the impending evacuation and demolition of 15 homes therein. The High Court of Justice initially ordered the outpost demolished by early 3/2018 in response to a petition from the Israeli NGO Peace Now in 2016. The court then allowed a three-month delay to give the government time to facilitate a smooth relocation process for the residents. Separately, settlers enter Burin village near Nablus, sparking clashes between their IDF escort and Palestinian residents; 2 Palestinians are injured. The Israeli authorities issue stop-work orders to a Palestinian home under construction in al-Khadir village near Bethlehem. IDF troops arrest 2 Palestinians during late-night raids in Hebron and Nablus, and patrol in and around Tulkarm, Salfit, and Hebron. Along Gaza’s border fence, unidentified Palestinians fly incendiary kites and balloons across the border fence, sparking a number of small fires in southern Israel. Israeli forces conduct a limited incursion to level land near Dayr al-Balah and open fire on Palestinian farmland nearby, causing no damage or injuries. In north Israel, Israeli police arrest a West Bank Palestinian after he allegedly stabs and injures an Israeli civilian in Afula. (HA, JP, TOI, WAFA, YA 6/11; TOI 6/12; PCHR 6/14)

Along Gaza’s border, an Israeli aircraft fires a “warning shot” at 3 Palestinians allegedly preparing to fly incendiary kites across the border fence, according to the IDF. Later, IDF troops open fire on Palestinian farmland along the border near Gaza City, causing no damage. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Rafah and Dayr al-Balah, causing no damage or injuries. In the West Bank, IDF troops violently confront Palestinian medics as they attempt to tend to persons injured in a traffic accident near Bethlehem. They also assault and injure 2 Palestinians and arrest 6 more during raids in and around Hebron, Tulkarm, Ramallah, and Bethlehem; and patrol near Qalqilya and Hebron. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 6 Palestinians during raids in al-Tur. (TOI, WAFA 6/9; PCHR 6/14)

In retaliation for the cross-border attack in Gaza on 5/26, the IDF fires artillery shells at Hamas and Islamic Jihad in Palestine (PIJ) sites east of Dayr al-Balah and Rafah, killing 3 Palestinians, including 2 PIJ fighters, and completely destroying 1 of the sites. The IDF says that PIJ fighters planted an improvised explosive device along the border fence earlier in the day. Later, IDF troops stationed along Gaza’s border open fire on 3 Palestinians approaching the border fence, injuring all of them. In the West Bank, Israeli settlers destroy 700 grapevines in a Palestinian vineyard near Hebron. Later, an Israeli settler reports extensive vandalism in his vineyard near Ramallah, apparently in retaliation for the earlier attack. IDF troops conduct raids in al-Am‘ari refugee camp near Ramallah, searching for the Palestinian who dropped a marble slab on an Israeli soldier amid clashes on 5/24. They arrest 5 Palestinians, sparking minor clashes; 13 Palestinians are injured. The IDF also arrests 7 Palestinians during late-night raids near Hebron, Bethlehem, Jenin, and Tulkarm; and patrols near Hebron. In East Jerusalem, Israeli police shoot and injure a Palestinian driver when she allegedly ignores their calls to stop driving toward them. The Israeli police say that they suspected her of carrying an explosive device under her clothes. Separately, Israeli security forces arrest 6 Palestinians for waving Hamas flags at Haram al-Sharif. (HA, JP, TOI, WAFA, YA 5/27; HA, MNA 5/28; PCHR 5/31)

Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops open fire on a Palestinian landfill near Dayr al-Balah and at a group of farmers and shepherds near al-Bureij refugee camp, causing no damage or injuries. They also violently disperse Great March of Return protesters near Rafah; 1 Palestinian is injured. In the West Bank, IDF troops violently disperse Palestinians marching through Bethlehem to commemorate the Nakba and protest the U.S. embassy’s impending opening in Jerusalem; there are no serious injuries. They also arrest 3 Palestinians and issue 1 arrest summons during late-night raids near Qalqilya and Hebron, and patrol near Jenin, Tulkarm, and Hebron. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 2 Palestinians during a raid in Silwan. (WAFA 5/10; PCHR 5/17)

Breaking with Israeli policy not to take responsibility for any strikes in Syria, Israeli officials acknowledge the extensive attacks on Iranian infrastructure on 5/9. “If Iran hits us with rain—we will hit them with a deluge,” says Israeli DM Lieberman. He also says that the IAF destroyed “nearly all” of Iran’s military infrastructure in Syria. (JP, NYT, TOI 5/10)

The U.S. Treasury announces new sanctions on 9 Iranian individuals and entities deemed complicit in an “extensive currency exchange network” that funneled millions of U.S. dollars to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. (AFP, TOI 5/10)

An explosion in Dayr al-Balah kills 6 members of Hamas and injures 3 others. The circumstances of the blast are unclear. Hamas accuses Israel of assassinating the men. The Israeli authorities deny any involvement. Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops shoot and injure 6 Palestinians approaching the border fence and allegedly throwing stones near al-Maghazi refugee camp. They also open fire on Palestinian paramedics working near Dayr al-Balah, injuring 1. Hours later, the IAF conducts an air strike on a Hamas site near Jabaliya refugee camp, causing an unclear amount of damage and injuries. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Bayt Lahiya, causing no damage or injuries. In the West Bank, IDF troops arrest 1 Palestinian, assault a 2d, and issue an arrest summons to a 3d during late-night raids near Hebron, Nablus, and Salfit; and patrol near Nablus and Salfit. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 3 Palestinians during a raid in Issawiyya. (WAFA 5/5; HA, JP, YA 5/6)

In the West Bank, IDF troops shoot and injure a Palestinian minor during a raid near Jenin. They arrest 6 Palestinians during further raids near Hebron and Ramallah, and patrol near Hebron. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Bayt Lahiya, causing no damage or injuries. Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops open fire on Palestinian farmers working near Khan Yunis and later near Dayr al-Balah, causing no injuries. They also violently disperse Great March of Return protesters gathering along the border fence near al-Bureij refugee camp, Gaza City, and Khan Yunis; 1 Palestinian is injured. (WAFA 4/30; PCHR 5/3)

The Palestinian National Council (PNC), the legislative wing of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), convenes in Ramallah for its first regular session since 1996. Some factions boycotted the meetings. Over the next 4 days, they are set to elect new members to the PLO Executive Committee and other top PLO positions. In the evening, PA president Abbas gives a speech calling for the PNC to adopt the initiative he presented at the UNSC in 2/2018, and reiterates his commitment to ending the division with Hamas. (JP, WAFA 4/30; YA 5/1)

The Egyptian authorities open the Rafah border crossing in both directions for a 3d and final day. (OCHA 5/10)

Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops open fire on Palestinian shepherds near Dayr al-Balah, causing no damage or injuries. They also violently disperse Palestinian protesters continuing the Great March of Return near al-Bureij refugee camp; 3 Palestinians are injured. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Bayt Lahiya, causing no damage or injuries. In the West Bank, IDF troops arrest 5 Palestinians during late-night raids in and around Qalqilya and Bethlehem, and patrol near Hebron and Qalqilya. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 2 Palestinians during latenight raids in Biddu. (MNA, WAFA 4/26; PCHR 5/3)

Along Gaza’s border, a Hamas fighter dies in a tunnel collapse near Dayr al-Balah, according to local Gaza media. Meanwhile, IDF troops violently disperse groups of Palestinians approaching the border fence near Khan Yunis and Bayt Lahiya; 3 Palestinians are injured. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Jabaliya refugee camp, causing no damage or injuries. In the West Bank, IDF troops shoot and injure a Palestinian during minor clashes in Hebron, and patrol near Hebron throughout the day. They also arrest 14 Palestinians during late-night raids in and around Tulkarm, Hebron, Jenin, Salfit, and Qalqilya. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces demolish part of a Palestinian shop in Bayt ‘Aynun and confiscate some of its merchandise, and arrest 12 Palestinians during late-night raids in Issawiyya and Shu‘fat refugee camp They also establish a closed military zone near Al-Quds University, sparking minor clashes with stone-throwing students; 4 Palestinians are injured. (TOI, WAFA 4/22; PCHR 4/26)

A Palestinian youth succumbs to injuries sustained when the IDF violently dispersed peaceful protesters along Gaza’s border on 4/20, bringing the death toll stemming from the Great March of Return to 35. (HA, MNA, WAFA 4/23; EI 4/24)

Along Gaza’s border, Israeli artillery shell a Palestinian rickshaw transporting PIJ fighters near Rafah, killing 4 and injuring several others. Israel’s Army Radio reports that the men were transporting explosives. PIJ says that the 4 died during unspecified “preparations.” Meanwhile, IDF troops violently disperse Palestinians shepherds working near Dayr al-Balah, and a small number of Palestinians at a Great March of Return tent camp outside Khan Yunis; 4 Palestinians are injured. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Jabaliya refugee camp, causing no damage or injuries. In the West Bank, IDF troops evacuate and dismantle an illegal settlement outpost near Nablus (settlers erected it on 4/13). When some of the settlers throw stones and otherwise resist the IDF, the soldiers arrest 3 of them. IDF troops also arrest 12 Palestinians during late-night raids near Hebron, Ramallah, al-Bireh, and Salfit; and patrol near Tulkarm and Nablus. (HA, JP, MNA, WAFA, YA 4/14; HA 4/15; PCHR 4/19)

The Egyptian authorities keep the Rafah border crossing open in both directions for a 3d and final day. (OCHA 4/27)

Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops open fire on Palestinian agricultural lands near al-Maghazi refugee camp and Dayr al-Balah, causing no damage or injuries. They also violently disperse Palestinian protesters near Khan Yunis and Jabaliya refugee camp; 2 Palestinians are moderately injured. Meanwhile, Israeli forces conduct a limited incursion to level land and repair the border fence near Khan Yunis. In the West Bank, Israeli forces demolish a Palestinian home under construction near Ramallah, force Palestinian farmers from their land outside al-Khadir near Bethlehem, and demolish a makeshift Palestinian secondary school in Khirbat Zanuta, a Bedouin community near Hebron. IDF troops arrest 10 Palestinians during raids near Nablus, Hebron, and Qalqilya; and patrol near Hebron. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 2 Palestinians during late-night raids in Issawiyya. (WAFA 4/10; PCHR 4/12)

Israeli DM Lieberman says that the Palestinian journalist who succumbed to injuries caused by the IDF’s ongoing violent crackdown on the Great March of Return on 4/6, Yaser Murtaja, was a member of Hamas and that he was giving his drone’s video recordings to the group. Hamas denies the allegation. The Washington Post reports that the U.S. recently vetted Murtaja’s company, Ain Media, for a government grant. (AP, JP, WP, YA 4/11)

A senior Iranian official says that Israel’s 4/9 deadly strike on the Syrian T-4 military base “will not remain without response.” Meanwhile, the Russian Foreign Ministry summons the Israeli ambassador to Russia for a formal questioning about the incident and a discussion about recent events in Gaza. (HA, JP, REU, YA 4/10)

An Israeli settler shoots and fatally injures a Palestinian after he allegedly attempts to stab another settler with a screwdriver at a gas station outside the Mishor Adumim settlement near Jerusalem (the Palestinian will succumb to his injuries on 4/9). Elsewhere in the West Bank, Israeli forces block Palestinian farmers from working their lands near Tulkarm, without offering any justification. They also arrest 8 Palestinians during late-night raids in and around Tulkarm, Qalqilya, and Nablus; and patrol near Salfit and Hebron. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces evict 3 Palestinian families from their homes in Silwan, implementing a recent court ruling that an Israeli settler group owns the buildings. They also arrest 3 Palestinians during late-night raids in Jabal Mukabir, Anata refugee camp, and Abu Dis. Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops shoot and injure 2 Palestinians amid clashes near Khan Yunis and open fire on agricultural lands near Dayr al-Balah, causing no damage or injuries. Later, Israeli tanks fire shells at 3 Palestinians who snuck through the border fence near Gaza City. The 3 turn back, unhurt. (HA, JP, TOI, WAFA, YA 4/8; HA 4/9)

A Palestinian succumbs to injuries sustained in a violent confrontation with IDF troops at a checkpoint near Tulkarm on 4/2. (WAFA 4/8)

At a meeting of the Fatah Central Committee, PA president Abbas lays out conditions for Palestinian engagement with the U.S. peace initiative. “We will not listen to anything that comes [from the Trump administration], regardless of what it is, unless the 2-state solution [is endorsed] and East Jerusalem as the capital of the State of Palestine is recognized,” he says. (JP, TOI 4/8)

Following the burning of hundreds of tires along Gaza’s border on 4/6, a PA official says that the Israeli authorities have suspended all tire imports into Gaza. (JP 4/8)

Israeli DM Lieberman condemns the calls for an independent, transparent investigation into the killings along Gaza’s border over the past 2 weeks. “The demand to investigate the shooting [. . .] is hypocrisy,” he says. Separately, Israeli officials say that the IDF will react with force, including air strikes on Hamas military targets, if Palestinians continue attempting to damage the border fence during the ongoing Great March of Return. (HA, JP 4/8)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers chop down approximately 30 olive trees in a Palestinian grove near Bethlehem, and assault a number of Palestinian students on their way home from school in Yatta near Hebron. Undercover Israeli soldiers conduct a raid in Burqin near Jenin, sparking clashes with stone-throwing Palestinians; 6 Palestinians are injured and 1 is arrested. IDF troops arrest 13 Palestinians and confiscate 1 vehicle during late-night raids near Ramallah, Hebron, Tulkarm, Bethlehem, and Nablus; and patrol near Tulkarm, Qalqilya, and Hebron. One of the raids near Ramallah sparks clashes with stone-throwing Palestinians; 1 Palestinian is injured. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 20 Palestinians during late-night raids in Shu‘fat refugee camp and 2 during raids in Issawiyya. A Palestinian demolishes his own home in Jabal Mukabir to avoid paying Israeli demolition fees. Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops open fire on Palestinian farmers working near Khan Yunis, causing no damage or injuries. Israeli forces conduct limited incursions to level land near Khan Yunis, Jabaliya refugee camp, and Dayr al-Balah. (WAFA 3/20, 3/21; PCHR 3/22)

The PA releases a statement calling on Hamas to transfer control of Gaza “all at once.” The statement comes 1 day after PA president Abbas accused Hamas of perpetrating the 3/13 assassination attempt on PM Hamdallah and threatened further restrictions on Gaza. (JP, TOI 3/20)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces shut down the north entrances to al-Bireh and Ramallah, sparking minor clashes; there are no serious injuries. IDF troops arrest 4 Palestinians and issue 2 arrest summons during late-night raids near Nablus, Bethlehem, and Hebron; and patrol near Hebron and Tulkarm. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 3 Palestinians during raids in Biddu and Issawiyya. Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops open fire on Palestinian farmland near Dayr al-Balah, causing no serious damage. (WAFA 12/31; PCHR 1/4)

The IAF conducts air strikes on several Hamas sites in southern Gaza, causing moderate damage. This is the 2d round of IAF strikes in Gaza in response to rocket fire on 12/29. Meanwhile, Israel’s Labor Party leader Avi Gabbay criticizes PM Netanyahu for failing to stop the rocket fire from Gaza. (TOI, YA 12/30; WAFA 12/31; PCHR 1/4)

A Palestinian succumbs to injuries sustained in clashes with IDF troops along Gaza’s border on 12/29. (HA, MNA, TOI 12/30; PCHR 1/4)

Unidentified fighters fire a projectile from Gaza into s. Israel, which lands in an open area nr. Ashqelon, causing no damage or injuries. Late at night, Israeli forces carry out air strikes on 2 Hamas military sites in n. Gaza, injuring 4 Palestinians. (HA, MNA 8/8; TOI, WAFA, YA 8/9; PCHR 8/10)

A Palestinian woman dies of cancer in Rafah. On 8/10, Al Mezan Center for Human Rights will state that Israeli authorities are responsible for her death because they delayed granting her a permit to travel from Gaza to Jerusalem for treatment. (MEZ, WAFA 8/10)

In the West Bank, IDF troops confiscate a Palestinian’s car during a raid nr. Hebron; arrest 21 Palestinians during further raids in and around Hebron, Ramallah, Bethlehem, Tulkarm, Jenin, Bethlehem, and Nablus; and patrol nr. Hebron and Nablus. Israeli settlers set fire to a large swathe of Palestinian land nr. Nablus, damaging hundreds of citrus trees. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces demolish a home in Jabal Mukabir, displacing a Palestinian family of 4. They also arrest 4 Palestinians during raids in Silwan and the Old City, and shut down a main road leading to villages n. of the city, which will remain closed until 8/10. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats nr. Dayr al-Balah and again nr. Khan Yunis, causing no damage or injuries. (MNA, WAFA 8/8; MNA 8/9; PCHR 8/10; MNA 8/11)

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)

In the West Bank, IDF troops arrest 5 Palestinians and confiscate 1 car during latenight raids nr. Qalqilya, Hebron, and Bethlehem; and patrol nr. Hebron and Nablus during the day. Meanwhile, Palestinian activists block several roads leading into Ramallah with piles of stones in solidarity with the prisoners who have been on hunger strike since 4/17. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces deliver demolition orders to 4 Palestinian homes in al-Matar, sparking clashes with stone-throwing residents; there are no serious injuries. They also arrest 2 Palestinians during a raid in Ras al-Amud. Along Gaza’s border, Israeli forces conduct limited incursions to level land nr. Dayr alBalah and again nr. Khan Yunis. (MNA, WAFA 5/14; PCHR 5/18)

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

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

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

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

Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats nr. Bayt Lahiya and later nr. Khan Yunis. Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops open fire on agricultural lands nr. Bayt Hanun and Dayr al-Balah. There are no injuries reported in any of these incidents. In the West Bank, Israeli forces demolish 5 Palestinian agricultural structures in Kardala village in the Jordan Valley. IDF troops raid a community center in Aida r.c. nr. Bethlehem, confiscating computers and security footage. They also arrest 2 Palestinians during raids nr. Ramallah and Tulkarm, and patrol nr. Qalqilya, Nablus, Ramallah, and Hebron. Israeli settlers assault a Palestinian photojournalist with rocks nr. Ramallah. They also damage his car. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces demolish a Palestinian building in Bayt Hanina. (MNA, WAFA 2/7; PCHR 2/9)