The Palestine Chronology

In the West Bank, Israeli forces demolish a Palestinian residential structure in Suba village near Hebron and deliver a stop-work order to a Palestinian home under construction outside Yatta. Unidentified assailants throw rocks at an Israeli settler vehicle driving near Ramallah, causing minor damage and lightly injuring 1 settler. IDF troops arrest 14 Palestinians during late-night raids in and around Tulkarm, Qalqilya, Hebron, Tubas, and Nablus; and patrol near Qalqilya, Tulkarm and Nablus. In East Jerusalem, Israeli police disperse a small protest against the detention of the PA’s governor of Jerusalem, Adnan Ghaith, outside a police station near the Old City; several Palestinians are arrested. Israeli forces also arrest a Palestinian during a raid in the Old City. (TOI, WAFA 11/27; MNA 11/28; PCHR 11/29)

Haaretz reports that the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) is planning to lay off more than half of its employees in the West Bank and Gaza in the coming weeks, following U.S. president Trump’s decision to slash U.S. aid to the Palestinians earlier this year. (HA, TOI 11/27)

Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office announces that the prime minister is planning to visit Chad soon to re-establish diplomatic ties. The announcement comes hours after Netanyahu meets with Chadian president Idriss Déby in Jerusalem. “The two discussed shared threats and the struggle against terrorism, increased cooperation between the nations in the areas of agriculture, counter terrorism, border security, technology, solar energy, water, health and more,” the prime minister’s office statement reads. (HA, JP, TOI 11/27)

Czech president Milos Zeman formally inaugurates the new Czech House, a cultural center in Jerusalem that he has described as the “first step” toward moving the Czech embassy in Israel to Jerusalem. In a joint press conference with Zeman, Israeli prime minister Netanyahu says, “We have no greater friend than the Czech Republic in the eastern hemisphere.” (HA, JP, TOI 11/27)

In a wide-ranging interview with the Washington Post, U.S. president Donald Trump says that Israel is the “one reason for the U.S. to remain in the Middle East.” He is responding to a question about the future of the U.S. military presence in the Middle East specifically. “Oil is becoming less and less of a reason because we’re producing more oil now than we’ve ever produced.” Meanwhile, Israeli ambassador to the UN Danny Danon says that the Trump administration is planning to release its long-awaited plan for Palestinian-Israeli peace in early 2019. (WP, YA 11/27; HA, MNA, MNA, TOI 11/28)

The Israeli authorities announce the seizure of 66 acres of Catholic Church-owned land in the northern Jordan Valley for “military purposes.” In response, the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem says, “The Patriarchate is looking into the aspects of this decision in order to address it in the appropriate manner, have it contested and to stop further damage.” (MNA 11/27; FMEP 12/7)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers attempt to set a Palestinian vehicle on fire and throw rocks at Palestinian homes in Urif village near Nablus, causing minor damage. After some Palestinian residents confront the settlers, IDF troops enter the village, sparking clashes with stone-throwing residents; 8 Palestinians are injured. Separately, IDF troops arrest a Palestinian at Qalandia checkpoint when she is found with a knife on her person; arrest 6 Palestinians during further raids near Bethlehem, Hebron, and Qalqilya; and patrol near Hebron, Tulkarm, and Salfit. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces demolish a Palestinian mobile home in Qalandia refugee camp near Jerusalem. The Palestinian owner was living in the mobile home since Israeli forces demolished his previous home on 6/20. Israeli forces raze a plot of Palestinian land and confiscate a vehicle, demolish 2 car washes, a food shop, several storage buildings and offices in Silwan and Jabal Mukabir; and arrest 5 Palestinians during late-night raids in Issawiyya. Meanwhile, hundreds of Palestinians gather along Gaza’s northern coast to continue the Great March of Return and to cheer on a number of Palestinian boats sailing in a symbolic challenge to the Israeli blockade. IDF troops and Israeli naval forces violently disperse the protests; 10 Palestinians are injured. Earlier in the day, Israeli forces conduct a limited incursion to level land near the site of the planned protest. (MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, TOI, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 11/19; MNA 11/20; PCHR 11/22)

Education Minister Naftali Bennett and Justice Minister Ayelet Shaked, both of the Jewish Home Party, announce that they intend to remain in Prime Minister Netanyahu’s ruling coalition and that they are dropping their demand for Bennett to take over the Defense Ministry. “There’s no apocalypse on the way. There are enemies, but not an enemy that worries me,” Bennett says. (HA, JP, YA 11/19)

Haaretz reports that Israel’s Population and Immigration Authority last week increased by 1,500 the number of permits awarded to West Bank Palestinians hoping to work as dishwashers and cleaners in Israeli restaurants, bars, and cafes. The increase is reportedly designed to ease the strain on restaurant owners who are struggling to find enough low-cost labor. Before this increase, approximately 30,000 West Bank Palestinians were permitted to come into Israel to work such jobs. (HA 11/19)

UNRWA commissioner general Pierre Krähenbühl tells reporters that the agency’s budget shortfall, which was created by U.S. president Trump’s decision to slash U.S. aid to UNRWA earlier this year, has been cut to $21 million, following another round of pledges from the EU and several Gulf countries. The deficit was reportedly $64 million as recently as last week. “This is a very encouraging result at the end of a lot of work,” Krähenbühl says. (AFP, TOI 11/19)

Airbnb, a U.S.-based home-share company with listings all over the world, announces that it is removing all 200-some of its listings in Israel’s West Bank settlements. “We concluded that we should remove listings in Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank that are at the core of the dispute between Israelis and Palestinians,” a statement from the company reads. In response, Israel’s Tourism Minister Yariv Levin instructs his deputies to restrict the company’s operations across Israel. Strategic Affairs Minister Gilad Erdan calls on the settler-hosts who used Airbnb to sue the company using Israel’s anti-boycott law. “National conflicts exist throughout the world,” he argues. “Airbnb will need to explain why they chose a racist political stance against some Israeli citizens.” (EI, HA, JP, YA, YA 11/19; AJ, BBC, CNN 11/20)

Marking the second major BDS victory of the day, the Canadian Federation of Students, Canada’s largest and oldest students’ association, endorses the BDS movement and condemns the “ongoing occupation of Palestine.” Marking the third, the Quakers in Britain Church, a group 17,000 strong, announces that it is divesting from companies that profit from the Israeli occupation. “This includes companies—whichever country they are based in—involved for example in the illegal exploitation of natural resources in occupied Palestine, and the construction and servicing of the separation barrier and Israeli settlements,” a senior church official explains. (TOI, TOI 11/19; JP, JP, JTA, TOI 11/20; EI 11/21)

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

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

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

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

Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops violently disperse dozens of Palestinians gathering near Rafah, Khan Yunis and Jabaliya refugee camp to continue the Great March of Return; 5 Palestinians are injured. Amid the demonstrations, an Israeli aircraft conducts an air strike on a protest camp near Rafah, causing damage. Separately, Israeli forces conduct a limited incursion to level land near Jabaliya refugee camp. On the other side of the border fence, Israeli firefighters put out 7 fires that were reportedly sparked by incendiary balloons and kites flown from Gaza. In the West Bank, IDF troops conduct raids in Rumana village near Jenin overnight, sparking minor clashes; several Palestinians are injured. They also arrest 5 Palestinians during further raids in and around Hebron, Qalqilya, and Nablus; and patrol near Hebron throughout the day. In East Jerusalem, approximately 362 right-wing Jewish activists tour Haram al-Sharif to commemorate Sukkot. Late at night, Israeli forces assault and arrest 2 Palestinians in Silwan. (MNA, MNA, MNA, WAFA, WAFA 9/26; MNA, PCHR 9/27)

On the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York City, U.S. president Donald Trump meets with Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu. At a joint press conference, Trump says he thinks a “2-state solution will work best.” His statement marks the first time he has publicly expressed a preference for the 2-state solution while in office. Later in the day, Trump says that Netanyahu was “very nice” to him and that a 2-state solution is “more likely,” but that he would be “OK with 1 state, 2 states, whatever they want.” Netanyahu, for his part, tells Israeli reporters that Trump accepts that Israel should retain a military presence in the West Bank even if a 2-state solution is agreed upon. (HA, TOI, WAFA, YA 9/26; HA, HA, JP, WAFA, YA, YA 9/27)

Ahead of PA president Mahmoud Abbas’s planned address to the UN General Assembly on 9/27, Hamas denounces Abbas as an illegitimate representative of the Palestinian people. According to sources close to Hamas’s leadership, the statement stems from the Egyptian delegation’s visit to Gaza last week for talks on the stalled Palestinian reconciliation process. The Egyptians reportedly backed Abbas’s position that there could be no long-term cease-fire with Israel until Hamas and Fatah reconcile and the PA resumes control of Gaza. “Most of the donor countries, including the Arab countries, have adopted this line,” the source says. “So it looks like Hamas is losing the momentum to advance calm on a separate track from reconciliation, and the situation in Gaza is getting worse.” Meanwhile, Hamas security forces summon dozens of Fatah members for interrogation in Gaza. According to some reports from Gaza, they also threaten at least 1 print shop owner with “arrests and beatings” should he print any materials in support of PA president Abbas’s planned speech to the UN General Assembly on 9/27. (HA 9/26; TOI 9/27)

One day after the UK Labour Party endorsed a freeze on UK arms sales to Israel, Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn says that he intends to recognize the State of Palestine if he is elected to lead the UK. (TOI, YA 9/26)

In the West Bank, IDF troops conduct raids in Dahaysha refugee camp near Bethlehem overnight, sparking clashes with residents of the camp; 1 Palestinian is injured. The IDF also patrols near Hebron. Israeli settlers set fire to a pile of Palestinian construction materials outside Jalud village near Nablus, causing extensive damage. In East Jerusalem, dozens of right-wing Jewish activists tour Haram al-Sharif. Israeli forces arrest 1 Palestinian during a raid in Qalandia refugee camp. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Jabaliya refugee camp, causing no damage or injuries. Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops open fire on Palestinian minors approaching the border fence near Gaza City, causing no injuries. In southern Israel, Israeli forces demolish the Bedouin village al-Araqib for the 133d time since 2010. They also demolish a home in the Bedouin village Hura . (MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, WAFA 9/6; PCHR 9/13)

After closing it indefinitely on 9/5, the Israeli authorities partially re-open the Erez border crossing, allowing a small number of humanitarian cases, journalists, and Palestinians from the West Bank into Gaza. Defense Minister Lieberman says the crossing will remain closed until at least 9/13. Separately, the Israeli authorities announce that all crossings in and out of Gaza and the West Bank are to be closed from midnight on 9/8 through midnight on 9/11 around the Jewish holiday Rosh Hashanah. The crossings are also set for closure around Yom Kippur (9/17–18) and Sukkot (9/22–10/1, except the crossings in the West Bank are set to open on 9/25–9/28). (MNA, MNA, TOI, TOI, WAFA 9/6)

U.S. president Donald Trump says that he does not plan to resume any aid for the Palestinians until they begin negotiations with Israel. “The U.S. was paying them tremendous amounts of money,” he says, in a call with U.S.-Jewish leaders. “And I say, ‘You’ll get money, but we’re not paying until you make a deal. If you don’t make a deal, we’re not paying.” Trump has slashed almost all U.S. aid for the Palestinians, including that which is traditionally directed through UNRWA, since 1/2018. (IHY, JP, HA, TOI, TOI, YA 9/7)

Along Gaza’s border, hundreds of Palestinians gather near the Erez border crossing to protest the U.S. decision to cut all aid to UNRWA. After some protesters throw stones at the crossing, IDF troops stationed along the border fence violently disperse them all; several Palestinians are injured. In the West Bank, Israeli settlers take over a Palestinian home in central Hebron, claiming ownership of the building. IDF troops violently disperse Palestinian journalists gathering for a sit-in protest against the Israeli detention of their colleagues outside Ofer Prison near Ramallah. Israeli forces dismantle a makeshift Palestinian residential structure outside Yatta village near Hebron (the family living there rebuilt it after Israeli forces demolished it on 9/3). In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces demolish a Palestinian animal barn in Anata refugee camp (MNA, MNA, TOI, WAFA, WAFA 9/4; YA 9/5)

The Israeli press reports that PA president Mahmoud Abbas recently rejected an offer to meet with U.S. president Donald Trump on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly later this month. He reportedly conditioned such a meeting on certain confidence-building measures that Trump was unwilling to enact, including the dismissal of Trump’s senior advisor and son-in-law Jared Kushner and Special Representative for International Negotiations Jason Greenblatt. The same sources say that the Trump administration is currently planning to roll out its long-awaited Palestinian-Israeli peace plan after the U.S. midterm elections in 11/2018 (a spokesperson for the U.S. National Security Council will deny the reports on 9/5). (TOI 9/4; TOI 9/5)

After 26 fires break out in Israeli farmland near Gaza, the IAF conducts air strikes on 2 sites allegedly used as staging areas for incendiary kite and balloon attacks in Gaza City and 2 in al-Bureij refugee camp, destroying a vehicle and injuring 3 Palestinians (1 critically). In the West Bank, IDF troops arrest 15 Palestinians during raids near Tulkarm, Nablus, Jenin, and Tubas; and patrol in and around Tulkarm and Hebron. Israeli settlers torch approximately 300 olive trees in Palestinian farmland near Nablus. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 16 Palestinians during raids in Ras al-Amud, al-‘Izzariya, al-Ram, Shu‘fat refugee camp, and al-Suwana. (HA, YA 6/24; MNA 6/25; PCHR 6/28)

A Palestinian succumbs to injuries sustained when IDF troops violently dispersed Palestinian protesters along Gaza’s border on 6/22. This brings the death toll stemming from the Great March of Return to 125. (HA, TOI, WAFA 6/24)

In an interview with the Palestinian newspaper Al-Quds, U.S. president Trump’s son-in-law and senior advisor Kushner says that he is ready to work with PA president Abbas, but questions Abbas’s commitment and ability to reach a peace agreement with Israel. “He has his talking points which have not changed in the last 25 years. There has been no peace deal achieved in that time.” The interview is seen as an attempt by Kushner to speak directly to the Palestinian people and to pressure Abbas into reengaging with the Trump administration’s peace efforts. PLO secretary-general Erakat says that Kushner’s comments highlight the Trump administration’s “refusal to talk substance, to mention Palestinian rights or a Palestinian state.” (AJ HA, JP, NYT, REU 6/24)

A Palestinian driver allegedly rams his vehicle into a group of Israeli soldiers near Bethlehem, lightly injuring 4. Elsewhere in the West Bank, IDF troops throw a stun grenade at a Palestinian minor in Hebron; he loses 3 fingers when the grenade detonates. It’s unclear what prompted the attack. Israeli soldiers also shoot and injure a Palestinian at a checkpoint near Bethlehem. The IDF arrests 12 Palestinians and issues 1 arrest summons during raids near Ramallah, Bethlehem, Tulkarm, and Hebron; and patrols near Tulkarm. Meanwhile, hundreds of Palestinians gather in Ramallah to protest the PA’s punitive restrictions on Gaza, chanting “scrap the sanctions” and calling for national reconciliation. In contrast with their response on 6/13, PA security forces do not violently disperse the demonstration. Along Gaza’s border fence, 7 fires break out in Israeli farmland near the fence. Later, an Israeli drone bombs a site allegedly used as a staging area for the incendiary kite and balloon attacks that sparked the fires. Separately, IDF troops open fire on Palestinian shepherds working along the border fence near Jabaliya refugee camp, causing 1 minor injury. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Bayt Lahiya, causing minor damage (3 fishermen are arrested). (HA, JP, TOI, WAFA, YA 6/23; AFP 6/24; PCHR 6/28)

PLO secretary-general Saeb Erakat says that U.S. president Trump’s son-in-law and senior advisor Kushner and Special Representative Greenblatt have been pushing to “liquidate” the Palestinian refugee issue during their trip to the Middle East this week. “They want to terminate the role of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) by proposing direct aid to the countries hosting the Palestinian refugees and sideline the UN agency,” he says. “On top of this, they are planning financial aid to the Gaza Strip worth $1 billion for projects, also separate from UNRWA and under the title of solving a humanitarian crisis.” (HA, TOI, WAFA, YA 6/23)

Along Gaza’s border fence, IDF troops violently disperse hundreds of Palestinians gathering to continue the Great March of Return near Bayt Lahiya, Khan Yunis, al-Bureij refugee camp, and Rafah; at least 78 Palestinians are injured (1 critically). In the West Bank, IDF troops conduct raids in Dahaysha refugee camp near Bethlehem overnight, arresting 1 Palestinian and sparking clashes with stone-throwing residents of the camp (1 IDF soldier is injured). The IDF also violently disperses Palestinians gathering at Friday protests against the Israeli occupation in Kafr Qaddum near Qalqilya (8 Palestinians are injured, including 1 journalist); arrests 3 Palestinians during raids in Hebron and near Ramallah; and patrols in and around Tulkarm, Hebron, and Qalqilya. Israeli settlers set fire to a Palestinian olive grove near Nablus, causing moderate damage. (HA, TOI, WAFA 6/22; PCHR 6/28)

U.S. president Trump’s son-in-law and senior advisor Kushner and Special Representative Greenblatt meet with Israeli PM Netanyahu in Israel. They discuss the long-awaited U.S. peace plan and the situation in Gaza. According to the White House, they discuss ways “the humanitarian situation in Gaza can be alleviated, while maintaining Israel’s security.” (HA, TOI 6/22)

Along Gaza’s border fence, Palestinians fly a number of incendiary kites and balloons into southern Israel, sparking 15 separate fires that cause moderate damage. The IAF retaliates with a drone strike near Rafah, causing damage. Separately, IDF troops violently disperse hundreds of Palestinians gathering along the border fence near Gaza City to continue the Great March of Return; 2 Palestinians are injured. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Rafah, causing no damage or injuries. In the West Bank, Israeli forces carry out the punitive demolition of the Jenin-area apartment of a Palestinian accused of carrying out a deadly car ramming attack on IDF troops on 3/16. The demolition sparks clashes between the IDF and stone-throwing residents of the area; 7 Palestinians are injured. IDF troops arrest 5 Palestinians during raids in Bayt Fajjar near Bethlehem, sparking clashes with stone-throwing residents (5 Palestinians are injured). They also patrol near Hebron and Tulkarm. Israeli settlers throw stones at a Palestinian woman at the entrance to Burqa village near Ramallah, causing minor injuries. In East Jerusalem, right-wing Jewish activists verbally assault Muslim worshippers at Haram al-Sharif, sparking a minor confrontation involving the Islamic Waqf and Israeli police; there are no injuries. (HA, MNA, WAFA, YA 6/21; PCHR 6/28)

In response to the rocket attacks on 6/20, Israel’s Public Security Minister Erdan says there is a “good chance” that Israel will launch an “operation” in Gaza to “create durable deterrence.” (HA, TOI 6/21)

U.S. president Trump’s son-in-law and senior advisor Kushner and Special Representative Greenblatt arrive in Egypt for meetings with Egyptian officials, including Egyptian president al-Sisi, on their Palestinian-Israeli peace initiative and humanitarian efforts in Gaza. They later visit Doha for similar talks with Qatari officials. (AP, JP, TOI, YA 6/21)

Hours after Israeli air strikes across Gaza on 6/19, Hamas and other armed groups launch approximately 45 rockets and other projectiles toward Israel; 3 fall short of the border fence, Israel’s Iron Dome missile defense system intercepts 7, and the rest fall in open areas in Israel, causing no major damage or injuries. The IAF then conducts retaliatory strikes on a number of Hamas and PIJ sites in Rafah and near Gaza City, causing major damage. Late at night, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats off Gaza’s coast near Gaza City, causing no damage or injuries. In the West Bank, IDF troops shoot and injure a Palestinian driver near Bethlehem. It’s unclear why they opened fire. Israeli forces demolish a Palestinian home near Jerusalem, arrest 13 Palestinians, and injure 1 during late-night raids near Bethlehem, Hebron, and Nablus; and patrol near Hebron and Nablus. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces demolish 1 Palestinian home each in Abu Dis and Qalandia refugee camp. They also arrest 2 Palestinians during late-night raids in Jabal Mukabir and al-Tur. (JP, MNA, TOI, WAFA, YA 6/20; MNA, PCHR 6/21; PCHR 6/27)

A Palestinian succumbs to injuries sustained when IDF troops violently dispersed Palestinian protesters along Gaza’s border on 5/14, bringing the death toll stemming from the Great March of Return to 124. (MNA, PCHR, TOI, WAFA 6/21)

In the wake of the rocket fire from Gaza in the morning, Hamas and PIJ issue a joint statement claiming responsibility and threatening to retaliate for any future Israeli strikes in Gaza. “We are committed to a formula of a strike for every strike,” the statement reads. “We will not allow the enemy to dictate a new formula.” Earlier, an IDF spokesperson explained the IDF’s decision to escalate their response to incendiary kite and balloon attacks from Gaza on 6/19: “We struck at a greater intensity, with the intended message for Hamas to understand that we will not allow this situation to continue.” (HA, TOI 6/20)

U.S. president Trump’s son-in-law and senior advisor Kushner and Special Representative Greenblatt meet with Saudi crown prince Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh. They discuss possible humanitarian projects to help improve conditions in Gaza and the Trump administration’s long-awaited Palestinian-Israeli peace plan. (HA, TOI 6/20)

Late at night, the IAF conducts 3 waves of air strikes targeting 25 Hamas sites across Gaza; the strikes cause massive damage and injure 3 Palestinians (2 near Rafah and 1 near Khan Yunis). The strikes reportedly come in response to the spate of incendiary kite and balloon attacks emanating from Gaza in recent weeks. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Rafah, causing no damage or injuries. In the West Bank, Israeli settlers bulldoze several dunams of Palestinian land near Hebron, with the intent to expand neighboring settlements. They also level approximately 40 dunams (approximately 10 acres) of Palestinian land near Jericho. IDF troops conduct raids in al-Mazra‘a near Ramallah, sparking clashes with stone-throwing residents of the village; 1 Palestinian is injured. They arrest 18 Palestinians during late-night raids in and around Hebron, Tulkarm, Jenin, Nablus, and Bethlehem; and patrol near Nablus, Jenin, Qalqilya, and Salfit. (WAFA 6/19; HA, MNA, WAFA 6/20; PCHR 6/21)

An ailing Palestinian dies at the Erez border crossing. The Israeli authorities summoned him for an interview that could have led to him being granted a permit to travel to Israel for medical attention. The deceased submitted two previous applications for an interview, but both were rejected, with the Israeli authorities citing security concerns. (PCHR 6/21)

Egyptian security sources say that Egyptian president al-Sisi has decided to keep the Rafah border crossing open for another two months, until after the Muslim holiday Eid al-Adha in late 8/2018, for “humanitarian reasons.” The crossing has already been open for 1 month, far longer than any opening since 2014. (TOI 6/19; YA 6/20)

U.S. ambassador to the UN Haley announces that the U.S. has formally withdrawn from the UNHRC, reiterating the Trump administration’s complaints about the council’s chronic anti-Israel bias. She says the move is “not a retreat” and that the Trump administration would still like to help reform the UNHRC. Israeli PM Netanyahu welcomes the move, condemning the “biased” and “hostile” UNHRC. (HA, JP, TOI 6/19)

After Netanyahu decides again to postpone the planned evacuation and demolition of 7 buildings in the Palestinian village of Susiya near Hebron, Israeli settlers accuse him of succumbing to U.S. pressure. “The Israeli government’s folly is indescribable,” one settler leader says, pointing to the upcoming visit from U.S. president Trump’s son-in-law Kushner and U.S. special representative Greenblatt. (JP, TOI, YA 6/19)

In Amman, Jordan’s King Abdullah II meets with Kushner and Greenblatt, who are on a tour of the region to promote their Palestinian-Israeli peace efforts. (HA, TOI 6/20)

Approximately 2,000 Palestinians, including Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, gather along Gaza’s border fence to perform the traditional morning prayer marking Eid al-Fitr. IDF troops then violently disperse hundreds of Palestinians who joined protests after the prayer near Rafah and Khan Yunis. For the third time in as many days, the IDF attacks Palestinians reportedly preparing to fly incendiary kites into Israel. An Israeli drone bombs a Hamas observation post near Rafah, causing no reported injuries. Armed Gazans fly a number of incendiary kites across the border fence throughout the day, sparking at least 11 fires in Israel. Separately, IDF troops arrest a Palestinian attempting to cross into Israel near Jabaliya refugee camp. In the West Bank, IDF troops patrol near Qalqilya and Hebron and violently disperse Palestinians gathering in Kafr Qaddum near Qalqilya to protest the Israeli occupation; 2 Palestinians are arrested. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 1 Palestinian during a raid in Silwan. (HA, MNA, TOI 6/15; TOI 6/16; PCHR 6/21)

U.S. president Donald Trump’s son-in-law and senior advisor Jared Kushner and U.S. special representative Jason Greenblatt meet with UN secretary-general António Manuel de Oliveira Guterres in New York City, days ahead of their week-long trip to the Middle East for meetings on their long-awaited peace plan. The trip is set to include stops in Israel, Jordan, Egypt, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia. (HA 6/17)

Today, Great March of Return demonstrations see tens of thousands of Palestinians in Gaza gathering along the border fence to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the Nakba, to protest the opening of the U.S. embassy in Jerusalem today, and to call for the Palestinian refugees’ right to return to their homes. IDF troops violently disperse demonstrations near Khan Yunis, Rafah, Gaza City, al-Bureij refugee camp, and Jabaliya refugee camp; 58 Palestinians are killed, including 3 who allegedly attempted to plant an explosive along the border near Rafah, and more than 1,300 are injured. After unidentified assailants open fire on IDF patrols along the border near Jabaliya refugee camp, the IAF conducts air strikes on Hamas posts near Jabaliya refugee camp, al-Bureij refugee camp, and Gaza City, causing moderate damage. The killings today bring the death toll related to the Great March of Return to 102. Elsewhere in the oPt, thousands of Palestinians gather across the West Bank and Jerusalem to protest the official opening of the U.S. embassy in Jerusalem today. They also release 70 black balloons in Ramallah, marking the 70th anniversary of the Nakba. IDF troops violently disperse the protests at Qalandia checkpoint, Bethlehem, and Hebron; at least 2 Palestinians are injured. Meanwhile, IDF troops arrest 19 Palestinians during latenight raids in and around Bethlehem, Jenin, Nablus, and Hebron; and patrol near Jenin and Hebron. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 7 Palestinians during late-night raids in Issawiyya and the Old City. (AJ, EI, HA, JP, MEE, MNA, TOI, WAFA, YA 5/14; PCHR 5/17)

Hours after Israeli troops open fire on peaceful Palestinian protesters along the border fence in Gaza, senior U.S. and Israeli officials gather for a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the new U.S. embassy in Jerusalem. In a recorded video, U.S. president Trump celebrates the opening and says the U.S. “remains fully committed to facilitating a lasting peace agreement” between Israel and the Palestinians. Outside the ceremony, Israeli police violently disperse approximately 200 protesters, including Joint List MKs Ahmad Tibi, Dov Khenin, Jamal Zahalka, Yousef Jabareen, and Masud Ganaim; 12 Palestinians are arrested. (AJ, BBC, JP, MEE, NYT, TOI 5/14; EI 5/15)

In the evening, the Palestinian leadership convenes in Ramallah to discuss the opening of the U.S. embassy in Jerusalem and the violence in Gaza. PA president Abbas calls the new U.S. embassy in Jerusalem a “settlement outpost” and reiterates that he has no plans to engage in any U.S.-mediated peace talks “in any way, shape, or form.” The assembled officials decide to file a war crimes complaint against Israel to the International Criminal Court (ICC) at The Hague over settlement construction in the West Bank. According to PLO secretary-general Erakat, they also agree to a number of other unspecified responses. (TOI 5/14; AP, YA 5/15)

The South African government recalls its ambassador to Israel and Turkey recalls its ambassadors from Israel and the U.S. in protest of the killings in Gaza today. “The victims were taking part in peaceful protests against the provocative inauguration of the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem,” a South African statement reads. Meanwhile, the U.S. blocks the UNSC from adopting a Kuwait-backed statement condemning the deadly violence in Gaza and calling for an “independent and transparent investigation” into Israel’s actions. (ANA, TOI, WAFA 5/14; HA, TOI 5/15)

The Egyptian authorities open the Rafah border crossing in both directions for the 3d consecutive day. (AHR 5/14; OCHA 5/24)

Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops open fire on small groups of Palestinians approaching the border fence near Bayt Lahiya and alBureij refugee camp, injuring 2 minors. Separately, Palestinians fly incendiary kites across the border fence into Israel, where they land and set fire to Israeli farmlands, causing damage. Israeli forces conduct a limited incursion to level land along the border fence near al-Bureij refugee camp. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 8 Palestinians during raids in Issawiyya. (They arrest 19 Palestinians in the neighborhood within this week.) They also demolish a commercial facility and a gas station in Issawiyya. In the West Bank, IDF troops arrest 16 Palestinians during raids near Ramallah, Nablus, Jenin, Qalqilya, and Salfit; and patrol near Hebron. (WAFA, YA 5/8; HA 5/9; PCHR 5/10)

U.S. president Trump announces his decision to pull the U.S. out of the 7/14/15 Iran nuclear deal, the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), calling it “disastrous.” Trump reportedly plans to reimpose all sanctions waived in the context of the deal, and to impose new ones. (ALM, BBC, HA, JP, NYT 5/8)

Hours after Trump’s announcement, the IAF conducts air strikes on a military base near Damascus used by Iranian forces, killing at least 15 people, including 8 Iranian soldiers, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. The IDF also goes on high alert and instructs local authorities in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights to prepare bomb shelters in case of an Iranian attack from Syria. (HA, JP, YA 5/9)

Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops arrest 3 Palestinians attempting to cross into Israel for unclear reasons. They also violently disperse Palestinian protesters gathering along the border fence near Gaza City; 1 Palestinian is injured. In the West Bank, IDF troops arrest 11 Palestinians during late-night raids in and around Bethlehem and Ramallah, and patrol near Tulkarm and Hebron. They also violently disperse Palestinians demonstrating against U.S. president Trump’s 12/6/2017 recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital in Kafr Qaddum near Qalqilya; 1 Palestinian is injured. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 1 Palestinian during a raid in Issawiyya. (PCHR 5/3)

The Egyptian authorities open the Rafah border crossing in both directions for the first of 3 planned days. (OCHA 5/10)

A Palestinian minor succumbs to injuries sustained when the IDF violently dispersed peaceful protesters along Gaza’s border on 4/27, bringing the death toll stemming from the Great March of Return to 41. (HA, JP, MNA, WAFA 4/28)

In the West Bank, IDF troops violently disperse Palestinians protesting the Israeli occupation and U.S. president Trump’s 12/6/2017 recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital in Kafr Qaddum near Qalqilya; 1 Palestinian is injured. They also arrest 14 Palestinians during late-night raids near Ramallah, Qalqilya, Hebron, and Jenin. Israeli settlers verbally and physically assault a Palestinian family in central Hebron; 1 home is lightly damaged. (PCHR 4/26)

Unidentified persons shoot and kill Palestinian professor and researcher Fadi al-Batsh outside a mosque in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The Malaysian government suggests that “foreign agents” may have been involved. It is widely suspected that Israeli agents were responsible for the attack. (HA 4/21; HA, JP, TOI, WAFA 4/22; MNA 4/23; HA, NYT 4/26)

More than 10,000 Palestinians gather along Gaza’s border to continue the Great March of Return for the 3d consecutive Friday. A number of protesters throw explosives and Molotov cocktails toward the border fence. IDF troops violently disperse the demonstrations near Gaza City, Khan Yunis, Rafah, Bayt Hanun, and Jabaliya refugee camp; 1 Palestinian is killed and at least 200 are injured. The protester killed today brings the death toll stemming from the Great March of Return to 30. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Jabaliya refugee camp and late at night near Bayt Lahiya, causing no damage or injuries. In the West Bank, IDF troops violently disperse Friday protests near Ramallah, Nablus, al-Bireh, Qalqilya, and Hebron; at least 12 Palestinians are injured. They also issue an arrest summons during a raid near Bethlehem, and patrol near Qalqilya and Hebron. Israeli settlers break into a mosque near Nablus overnight and set fire to the interior, causing moderate damage. A separate group of settlers damages 7 Palestinian olive trees near Nablus. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 7 Palestinians during a raid in the Old City. (EI, HA, JP, MNA, NYT, PNN, WAFA, YA 4/13; MNA 4/ 14; PCHR 4/19)

The Egyptian authorities open the Rafah border crossing in both directions for the 2d of 3 planned days. (OCHA 4/27)

Israeli DM Lieberman says that the decreasing attendance at the Friday protests along Gaza’s border over the past 2 weeks show that Israel’s “determination” has had an effect. “Each week there are fewer rioters on our border with Gaza. Our determination is well understood on the other side,” he says. (TOI 4/13)

U.S., UK, and French forces conduct air strikes on Syrian government research, storage, and military targets near Homs and in Damascus, fulfilling U.S. president Trump’s pledge to retaliate for an alleged chemical weapons attack in Damascus on 4/7. (AP, BBC, NYT 4/13)

IDF troops violently disperse Palestinians protesting along Gaza’s border for a 5th day in a row; 1 protester is killed, bringing the death toll stemming from the Great March of Return to 17. In the West Bank, IDF troops shoot and kill a Palestinian citizen of Israel after he allegedly rams his car into a bus stop near the Ariel settlement. IDF troops shoot and injure 2 Palestinian amid clashes sparked by a patrol near Nablus; arrest 8 Palestinians; issue 1 arrest summons during late-night raids in and around Ramallah, Nablus, Jericho, and Tubas; and patrol near Hebron and Nablus. Israeli forces order a Palestinian girls’ school near Nablus to close for the day after reports of stones thrown at an Israeli settler’s car earlier that day. (HA, JP, MNA, TOI, WAFA 4/3; PCHR 4/5)

Organizers of the ongoing Great March of Return, which commenced with a 30,000- strong protest in Gaza on 3/30, say that preparations are underway for renewed protests this week. “We welcome all participants of all factions, and appreciate their work for the success of this action that embarrassed Israel throughout the world,” they write, also calling on participants not to approach the border fence, for fear of giving Israeli troops an excuse to open fire. (HA 4/3; HA 4/4)

Israeli PM Netanyahu and U.S. president Trump speak briefly by phone in the evening. According to a White House statement, they discussed “recent developments in the Middle East,” and Trump “reiterated the commitment of the U.S. to Israel’s security.” Two White House officials describe the call as “tense” because of Netanyahu’s concerns about the reported U.S. plans to withdraw from Syria. (TOI 4/4; HA 4/6)

Approximately 30,000 Palestinians gather along Gaza’s border for a massive protest dubbed the “Great March of Return” commemorating Land Day and calling for refugees’ rights to return to their homes in Israel (see extensive coverage in JPS 47 [4]). They chant slogans, throw stones, and build protest tent camps in various locations. IDF troops violently disperse the demonstrations in multiple locations; 15 Palestinians are killed and hundreds are injured. Video recorded at the march shows a Palestinian being shot in the back while running away from the border. The protests are set to continue for 6 weeks. Hours before the protest, the IDF declares the border area a closed military zone, threatening violence should any person approach. Israeli tanks then shell and kill a Palestinian farmer working along the border. In the evening, 2 armed Palestinians open fire on an IDF post along Gaza’s northern border. Israeli soldiers return fire, and Israeli tanks and jets strike Hamas observations posts in the area as well; there is no major damage or injuries. In the West Bank, IDF troops violently disperse Palestinians, Israelis, and international activists at Friday protests against Israel’s settlements, occupation, and separation wall, as well as U.S. president Trump’s 12/6/17 recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, in Kafr Qaddum near Qalqilya, Beita near Nablus, al-Bireh, and 3 villages near Ramallah (Bil‘in, Ni‘lin, and Nabi Salih); at least 26 Palestinians are injured. Meanwhile, IDF troops arrest 2 Palestinians during late-night raids near Hebron. An Israeli settler driver allegedly rams and seriously injures a Palestinian near Hebron. (AJ, ALM, BBC, EI, HA, JP, MNA, NYT, PNN, WAFA, WP, YA 3/30; PCHR 4/5)

UN secretary-general António Guterres calls for an independent and transparent investigation into the killings in Gaza today and “appeals to those concerned to refrain from any act that could lead to further casualties and in particular any measures that could place civilians in harm’s way,” according to a spokesperson. The UNSC also convenes to discuss the killings, despite U.S. and Israeli requests to postpone the discussion to 3/31. (HA, REU 3/31)

Along Gaza’s border, 4 Palestinians enter Israel in the evening and attempt to torch heavy engineering equipment used to construct Israel’s underground border barrier. When IDF troops approach the men, they return to Gaza. The IAF then conducts late-night air strikes on 3 Hamas sites near Rafah; there are no reported injuries. Earlier in the day, IDF troops stationed along the border open fire on Palestinian farmers working near al-Maghazi refugee camp, causing no injuries. In the West Bank, IDF troops arrest 4 Palestinians during late-night raids in Bethlehem and near Hebron, and patrol near Tulkarm and Nablus. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 1 Palestinian during late-night raids in Shu‘fat refugee camp. (HA, MNA, TOI, WAFA, YA 3/25; PCHR 3/29)

The Egyptian authorities open the Rafah border crossing for the 2d of 3 planned days, allowing passage in both directions. (TOI, WAFA 3/23)

A PA official says that the Palestinian authorities recently filed official requests for membership in 8 international treaties and conventions, including the International Convention against Apartheid in Sports. “Becoming members of these international conventions and treaties strengthens the Palestinian issue on the international level and demonstrates our commitment to upholding international standards in our state institutions,” the official says. The move comes 3 months after PA president Abbas pledged to join new international treaties and conventions in response to U.S. president Trump’s 12/6/17 recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital. (C2, JP, TOI 3/24)

IDF troops violently disperse Palestinians, Israelis, and international activists at Friday protests against Israel’s separation wall, settlements, and occupation, as well as U.S. president Trump’s 12/6/17 recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital in 4 villages near Ramallah (al-Mazra‘a, Nabi Salih, Ni‘lin, and Bil‘in), Kafr Qaddum near Qalqilya, Abu Dis, and along Gaza’s border near Bayt Hanun and Jabaliya refugee camp; 21 Palestinians are injured. Meanwhile, IDF troops arrest 2 Palestinians during late-night raids in and around Hebron, and patrol near Hebron and Nablus. (MNA, WAFA 3/23; PCHR 3/29)

The Egyptian authorities open the Rafah border crossing for the first of 3 planned days, allowing passage in both directions. (TOI, WAFA 3/23)

A Palestinian driver allegedly rams his car into a small group of IDF troops standing along a road near Nablus, killing 2, critically injuring a 3d, and moderately injuring a 4th. The Palestinian driver is arrested. Later, IDF troops conduct raids in the alleged attacker’s hometown, Barta‘a, near Jenin, arresting his brother and ransacking several homes. The Israeli authorities also revoke the work permits of approximately 100 of the alleged attacker’s relatives. Meanwhile, IDF troops violently disperse Palestinians, Israelis, and international activists at Friday protests against Israel’s separation wall, settlements, and occupation, as well as U.S. president Trump’s 12/6/17 recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital in Bethlehem, al-Bireh, 4 villages near Ramallah (Budrus, Nabi Salih, Ni‘lin, and Bil‘in), Kafr Qaddum near Qalqilya, Luban al-Sharqiyya near Nablus, and along Gaza’s border near Gaza City, Khan Yunis, and Jabaliya refugee camp. At least 30 Palestinians are injured, including 2 journalists. IDF troops also arrest 2 Palestinians, issue 2 arrest summons, and demolish the walls of an apartment during raids near Bethlehem and Jenin, and patrol near Qalqilya, Salfit, and Hebron. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces clash with Palestinians in Abu Dis, injuring 19. It’s unclear what sparked the clashes. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Bayt Lahiya, causing no damage or injuries. (JP, TOI, WAFA 3/16; HA, MNA, WAFA, YA 3/17; PCHR 3/22)

Along Gaza’s border, unidentified persons detonate 2 IEDs targeting an IDF patrol near Jabaliya refugee camp, causing no damage or injuries. Soon thereafter, the IAF bombs Hamas sites near Gaza City and Jabaliya refugee camp, injuring 1 Palestinian and causing moderate damage. An IDF spokesperson later alleges that the 2 devices were planted amid a recent border protest. (HA, JP, WAFA, YA 3/15; PCHR 3/22)

In the West Bank, IDF troops arrest 4 Palestinians and issue 1 arrest summons during late-night raids near Ramallah, Hebron, and Jenin; and patrol near Tulkarm and Hebron. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces clash with Palestinians in al-‘Izzariya; 9 Palestinians are injured. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Bayt Lahiya and Jabaliya refugee camp, causing no damage or injuries. (WAFA 3/15; PCHR 3/22)

At a fundraising conference in Rome, officials from 90 different countries collectively pledge $100 m. for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) to address the budget shortfall caused by U.S. president Trump’s decision to cut U.S. aid to the agency in 1/2018 (see JPS 47 [3]). (JP, TOI, WAFA 3/15)

Unidentified persons detonate a roadside explosive targeting PA PM Hamdallah’s 3- vehicle convoy in an apparent assassination attempt near Bayt Hanun in Gaza; 7 Palestinians are injured and 3 cars are damaged. Unhurt, Hamdallah attends an inauguration of a wastewater treatment plant. PA officials initially blame Hamas for the attack. After Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh speaks with Hamdallah, they agree that Israel was likely responsible. (HA, MNA, NYT, WAFA, YA 3/13; HA, JP 3/14)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers chop down 15 Palestinian olive trees near Nablus. IDF troops arrest 5 Palestinians during late-night raids near Jenin and Nablus, and patrol near Hebron and Qalqilya. Israeli forces punitively seal a Jenin-area apartment belonging to the family of a Palestinian arrested for allegedly killing an Israeli settler on 10/4/17 (Israeli forces punitively demolished the family’s home on 12/1/17). Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Jabaliya refugee camp, causing no damage or injuries. (MNA, WAFA 3/13; PCHR 3/15)

U.S. president Trump’s son-in-law and senior advisor Jared Kushner and Special Rep. for International Negotiations Jason Greenblatt host a meeting at the White House to discuss the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Israeli, Qatari, Saudi, Omani, Bahraini, and UAE officials attend, while Palestinian officials maintain their boycott of the U.S. peace initiative. (JP, TOI 3/13; WAFA 3/14)

IDF troops violently disperse Palestinians, Israelis, and international activists at Friday protests against Israel’s settlements, separation wall, and occupation, as well as U.S. president Trump’s 12/6/17 recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital in 4 villages near Ramallah (Bil‘in, Ni‘lin, Budrus, and Nabi Salih), al-Bireh, Kafr Qaddum near Qalqilya, Hebron, and along Gaza’s border in various locations; 1 Palestinian is killed and at least 13 are injured. Reportedly for the first time, the IDF uses a drone to drop tear gas on Palestinian protesters in Gaza. Meanwhile, IDF troops assault and arrest 2 Palestinians at a mobile checkpoint near Bethlehem, issue arrest summons to 3 Palestinians during raids in Bethlehem, and patrol near Qalqilya, Salfit, and Hebron. Israeli settlers clash with Palestinians in Madama village near Nablus; 2 Palestinians are injured and 1 is arrested. Settlers erect tents in the yards of al-Ibrahimi Mosque in Hebron and throw stones at Palestinian vehicles and homes outside nearby Yatta village. Palestinians set fire to an Israeli settler’s home near Nablus, sparking minor clashes with IDF troops; 1 Palestinian is injured. In East Jerusalem, Israeli police block Palestinian activists from organizing a running race to coincide with the Israeli government–organized Jerusalem Marathon, an annual race through the city that requires the closure of a number of main streets; 2 Palestinians are arrested. Approximately 5,000 runners participate in the Jerusalem Marathon. Meanwhile, Israeli forces arrest 1 Palestinian during a raid in Shu‘fat. (HA, JP, TOI, WAFA 3/9; MNA, WAFA 3/10; PCHR 3/15)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces block Palestinian farmers from working their lands near Qalqilya, and raze a swath of Palestinian farmland near Tubas. IDF troops arrest 8 Palestinians during late-night raids in and around Bethlehem, Jenin, Nablus, and Hebron; and patrol near Jenin, Qalqilya, Hebron, Bethlehem, Tulkarm, and Salfit. Israeli settlers park 3 mobile homes and a water tank on Palestinian land near Hebron; the Israeli authorities claim that the Israeli government owns the land. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Jabaliya refugee camp, causing no damage or injuries. (WAFA 3/5; MNA, WAFA 3/6; PCHR 3/8)

U.S. president Trump and Israeli PM Netanyahu meet at the White House and discuss Iran, Jerusalem, and the Palestinians. At a joint press conference, Trump says that he might visit Israel for the inauguration of the new U.S. embassy in Jerusalem in 5/2018. Netanyahu downplays Palestinians’ concerns to focus on Iran. “Iran, Iran, and Iran was the main topic of the meeting,” he says. “I told him what I thought: that the nuclear agreement with Iran must be either totally fixed or totally canceled, and there were detailed discussions on this issue.” (HA, JP, MEMO, NYT, YA 3/5; TOI 3/12)

IDF troops violently disperse Palestinians, Israelis, and international activists at Friday protests against Israel’s settlements, occupation, and separation wall, as well as U.S. president Trump’s 12/6/17 recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, in 4 villages near Ramallah (Nabi Salih, Budrus, Ni‘lin, Bil‘in), al-Bireh, Kafr Qaddum near Qalqilya, and along Gaza’s border near Gaza City, Khan Yunis, Bayt Hanun, and al-Bureij refugee camp. At least 22 Palestinians are injured and 1 German national is arrested. Meanwhile, IDF troops issue arrest summons to 2 Palestinians during late-night raids in Bethlehem, and patrol near Hebron and Nablus. Israeli settlers throw stones at Palestinian homes near Nablus, sparking minor clashes between the residents and IDF troops in the area; 1 Palestinian is injured. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 1 Palestinian during a raid in Hizma. In 3 separate incidents off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Bayt Lahiya and Jabaliya refugee camp, causing no damage or injuries. (WAFA 3/2; TOI 3/4 PCHR 3/8)

IDF troops violently disperse Palestinians, Israelis, and international activists at Friday protests against Israel’s separation wall, occupation, and settlements, as well as U.S. president Trump’s 12/6/17 recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital in Hebron, Jericho, Kafr Qaddum near Qalqilya, 2 areas near Nablus (Beita village and the Huwwara checkpoint), 5 villages near Ramallah (al-Janiya, al-Bireh, Nabi Salih, Ni‘lin, and Bil‘in), and along Gaza’s border near Gaza City, Khan Yunis, al-Bureij refugee camp, and Jabaliya refugee camp. At least 31 Palestinian are injured and 2 are arrested. In the West Bank, Israeli soldiers shoot and injure 3 Palestinian minors during clashes sparked by an IDF raid near Nablus. IDF troops also arrest 3 Palestinians and assault 1 during late-night raids near Hebron and Bethlehem, and patrol near Hebron and Tulkarm. Israeli settlers throw stones at, and open fire on, Palestinian homes in Burin village near Nablus, causing no major damage or injuries. The attack sparks minor clashes; there are no serious injuries. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest a Palestinian during late-night raids in Issawiyya. In 4 separate incidents off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Bayt Lahiya and Jabaliya refugee camp, causing no damage or injuries. (HA, NYT, WAFA, YA 2/23; PCHR 3/1)

The U.S. State Department announces that the new U.S. embassy in Israel will open in Jerusalem in 5/2018, implementing President Trump’s 12/6/17 pledge to move the embassy from Tel Aviv. The embassy is set to open with ambassador David Friedman and a skeleton staff working out of an existing U.S. facility in the Arnona neighborhood. “This decision will turn the 70th anniversary of Israeli independence into an even bigger celebration,” says Israeli PM Netanyahu. “Thank you, President Trump, for your leadership and your friendship.” Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) secretarygeneral Saeb Erakat says, “The U.S. decision to recognize Jerusalem as Israel’s capital and now to move its embassy on the eve of marking 70 years since the Nakba [. . .] shows the determination of the U.S. administration to violate international law, destroy the 2-state solution, and provoke the feelings of the Palestinian people, as well as of all Arabs, Muslims, and Christians around the globe.” (AP, HA, JP, TOI, WAFA 2/23)

IDF troops assault and arrest a Palestinian during an overnight raid in Jericho; he succumbs to injuries sustained in the confrontation later in the day. The IDF contends that he suffered fatal seizures after being exposed to large amounts of tear gas during the raid. (An autopsy performed on 2/23 will find that he suffered a fatal gunshot to his abdomen.) Meanwhile, Israeli settlers build a fence around a plot of land near Nablus, reportedly with the intention of building a new illegal settlement outpost. IDF troops arrest 5 Palestinians during late-night raids near Bethlehem and Salfit, and patrol near Hebron, Jenin, Salfit, Qalqilya, and Tulkarm. Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops open fire on Palestinian farmland near Khan Yunis and on a group of Palestinian minors protesting U.S. president Trump’s 12/6/2017 recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital near al-Bureij refugee camp, injuring 1. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Bayt Lahiya, causing no damage or injuries. (HA, MNA, WAFA, YA 2/22; HA 2/25; PCHR 3/1)

The Gaza Electricity Distribution Company (GEDCO) announces that it will be forced to shut down Gaza’s sole power plant soon due to a lack of diesel fuel. A GEDCO spokesperson says that “the premature closure of the Rafah border crossing on 5/21 restricted essential fuel shipments.” (HA, TOI 2/22)