The Palestine Chronology

In the West Bank, a Palestinian succumbed to injuries sustained from Israeli forces during a raid in Ras Karkar last week. Israeli settlers posing as Israeli forces made 3 Palestinian families demolish their residential tents on the outskirts of Hizma. Israeli forces shot and killed 4 Palestinians during a raid in Jenin, 9 were injured, including 1 in a drone strike on a house. Israeli forces also shot and killed a Palestinian during a raid in Yatta. Elsewhere, Israeli forces shot and injured 44 Palestinians during raids in Beita, Hebron, Zawata, Safa, al-Ram, Dura al-Qara’, ‘Anata, and Dheisheh refugee camp. 60 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in and around Ramallah, Silwad, Hebron, Nablus, Bethlehem, Tulkarm, and Qalqilya. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces shot and killed a Palestinian in Shaykh Jarrah, claiming he had stabbed and injured a police officer. In Gaza, Israeli airstrikes killed at least 304 Palestinians. Israel said it had carried out 600 airstrikes in the past 24 hours. Hamas said it had repelled Israeli advances near Gaza City, forcing Israeli tanks and bulldozers to retreat. Israel hit the Turkish-Palestinian Friendship Hospital, causing extensive damage. Near Lebanon, an Israeli soldier was killed and 2 others injured when an Israeli tank rolled over them. Israel attacked several places in Lebanon; 3 mortar shells were fired at Israel. In Syria, Israeli forces carried out airstrikes, saying they had hit targets that fired rockets toward Israel. (AP 10/29; AJ, AJ, AJ, AJ, AP, HA, NYT, NYT, NYT, REU, REU, UNOCHA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 10/30; HA, NYT 10/31)

The Gaza Ministry of Health said at least 8,309 Palestinians have been killed, including around 5,000 women and children, and 21,048 have been injured in Israeli airstrikes on Gaza since 10/7. 1,800 Palestinians, including 940 children, have been reported missing. In addition, Israeli media reported that 1,500 Palestinian militants have been killed near Gaza. 122 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces and settlers in the West Bank and East Jerusalem since 10/7, including 33 children. More than 2,208 have been injured. Israeli officials recorded no new fatalities, leaving the Israeli death toll at around 1,400 Israelis and foreign nationals; 5,431 have been injured since 10/7. The UN reported that over 1.4 million Palestinians, more than half the population in Gaza, have been displaced since 10/7 and that since 11 p.m. on 10/12 there has been a complete electricity blackout due to the Israeli blockade. As of 10/23, at least 27,781 housing units had been destroyed and 150,000 had been damaged in Israeli airstrikes since 10/7. At least 45% of all housing units have been either destroyed or damaged in Israeli airstrikes. UNRWA said 10 of its staff have been killed in the past 3 days, bringing the total number of UNRWA staff killed by Israel to 63. 26 trucks carrying aid to Gaza entered via the Rafah crossing. The WHO said it had not been able to resupply al-Shifa and al-Quds hospitals because of the risk of Israeli airstrikes. The Palestinian Red Crescent Society said an Israeli airstrike damaged its warehouse in Gaza City. Israel closed off the water to Gaza again after reopening 2 water lines in the past week. (AJ, HA, UNOCHA, WAFA, WAFA 10/30)

Hamas released a video of 3 Israeli captives, calling on Israel to facilitate their release. Israel said it had rescued 1 captive from Hamas during an operation in Gaza. (AJ, AJ, AJ, AP, HA, NYT, REU, REU 10/30)

Al Jazeera journalist Youmna ElSayed said her family had received a phone call from Israel warning them to flee south from Gaza City. Al Jazeera condemned the threat against their journalist in a statement, saying “Israel’s actions continue with impunity as they attempt to silence the messenger.” (AJ, AJ 10/30) 

PA foreign minister Riyad al-Maliki met with Cypriot foreign minister Constantinos Kombos, discussing the need for an immediate ceasefire. (WAFA 10/30)

Israeli media reported that Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich had sent a letter to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, informing him that monthly payments to the PA delivering the PA’s tax revenue had stopped. (AJ 10/30)

A draft document written by the Israeli Ministry of Intelligence said Israel may try to forcefully displace Palestinians in Gaza to Egypt. 2 other options in the document included that Israel hands control of Gaza to the PA or that is establish “local Arab rule” by Palestinians in Gaza. Israeli sources verified the authenticity of the document but said the government is not expected to debate the proposals. (HA 10/30; AP 10/31)

The Israeli High Court of Justice denied a petition by 3 Israeli organizations to remove a temporary order allowing worsening conditions for Palestinian prisoners. The judges said “[t]he assessment of human rights violations in times of war is not comparable to such assessments in peaceful situations.” (HA 10/30)

Al-Haq, al-Mazan, and the Palestinian Centre for Human Rights urged ICC prosecutor Karim Khan to issue arrest warrants for “Israeli authorities and military personnel.” (AJ 10/30; WAFA 10/31)

At the UN Security Council, PA ambassador to the UN Riyad Mansour criticized the international community for not forcing Israel to stop its bombing of Gaza, saying “they are besieged and bombed with nowhere safe to go.” Israeli UN ambassador Gilad Erdan wore a yellow Star of David, resembling the markings forced on Jewish people by Nazi Germany, saying “Never Again.” Dani Dayan, the chairperson of the Israeli Holocaust Remembrance Center, Yad Vashem, said Erdan’s actions “disgraces both Holocaust victims and Israel.” UNRWA commissioner-general Phillippe Lazzarini told the Security Council that a ceasefire was a “matter of life and death for millions,” and charged Israel with collective punishment. (AJ, NYT, WAFA 10/30; AP, AP, HA, HA, HA, WAFA 10/31; HA 11/1)

Israeli defense minister Yoav Gallant said Hamas will “die fighting” or “surrender without any conditions.” (AJ 10/30)

U.S. National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby said the U.S. does not support a ceasefire, reiterating the White House’s position that a ceasefire would only benefit Hamas. Kirby stated the U.S. position was to support “temporary, localized humanitarian pauses for aid, and for people to get out.” The U.S. also said 4 rockets were launched at the Ain al-Asad air base, causing no injuries or damage. Saudi defense minister Khalid bin Salman said he discussed the need for a ceasefire during a meeting with National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan. (AJ, HA, REU, REU 10/30; AJ 10/31)

UK foreign secretary James Cleverly said the UK was working to facilitate a temporary ceasefire to allow more aid to enter Gaza. UK parliamentary private secretary Paul Bristow was fired from the Conservative government for writing a letter to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak calling for a ceasefire. (AJ, REU 10/30; AJ, AJ, HA 10/31)

Axios reported that Mossad director David Barnea traveled to Qatar over the weekend for meetings with Qatari officials regarding a prisoner exchange with Hamas. U.S. secretary of state Antony Blinken spoke with Qatari prime minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, discussing the humanitarian situation in Gaza and Qatari efforts to mediate a prisoner exchange. (AJ, AX, HA 10/30)

OIC secretary-general Hussein Brahim Taha condemned the Israeli attacks on Gaza, calling on the international community to intervene. (WAFA 10/30)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

In the West Bank, 9 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in and around Nablus, Qalqilya, Bethlehem, and Hebron. In the East Jerusalem, Israeli settlers toured the Haram al-Sharif compound; the Jordanian ministry of foreign affairs denounced the violation of the Status Quo agreement. 6 Palestinians were arrested as the Israeli settlers toured the compound. In Israel, Palestinian activists and members of the Israeli Knesset demonstrated outside the Israeli magistrate court in support of the PA governor of Jerusalem Adnan Gheith who has been detained by Israel since 7/19. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire on agricultural lands east of Dayr al-Balah; no injuries were reported. Outside of Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s residence, more than 1,000 protesters demanded Netanyahu’s resignation; pro-Netanyahu counter-protesters attacked 1 Palestinian bus driver and 2 photojournalists. ( HA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 7/30; PCHR 8/13)

The EU and 15 European countries delivered a letter to the Israeli foreign ministry expressing “grave concern regarding the advancement of settlement construction in Givat Hamatos and potentially in the E1 area.” (TOI 7/31)

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

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

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

Along Gaza’s border, Israeli forces conduct a limited incursion to level land near al-Buriej refugee camp. IDF troops stationed along the border fence open fire on Palestinian shepherds working near Rafah. In the West Bank, IDF troops arrest 2 Palestinians during raids in and around Qalqilya and Hebron; and patrol near Hebron and Bethlehem. (PCHR 1/3)

The PA cabinet agrees to ban imports of Israeli fruits, vegetables, and poultry in response to Israeli agriculture minister Uri Ariel’s 12/17 decision to ban Palestinian produce and poultry from Israel. “In accordance with the principle of protecting the local produce and the Palestinian farmer in order to achieve the government's policy of supporting the steadfastness of the Palestinian farmers and in light of the unilateral Israeli decision to prevent the entry of Palestinian vegetables and fruits into Israeli markets, the government decided to prevent the entry of all kinds of vegetables, fruits and poultry into the Palestinian markets,” a statement from the cabinet meeting reads. (MNA, TOI, WAFA 12/27; HA 12/28)

Sources within the company confirm recent rumors that multinational banking and financial services holding company HSBC is planning to divest from Elbit Systems, one of Israel’s largest arms manufacturers. HSBC reportedly alluded to the decision in an email to the Palestine Solidarity Campaign last week. (AJ, MEE 12/27; MO 12/28; HA 12/29)

In the West Bank, IDF troops conduct raids in al-‘Arub refugee camp near Hebron, sparking clashes with stone-throwing residents of the area; there are no serious injuries. They arrest 18 Palestinians during further raids near Ramallah, Hebron, Bethlehem, and Qalqilya; and patrol near Hebron throughout the day. In East Jerusalem, Israeli MK Yehuda Glick leads more than 100 right-wing Jewish activists on a tour of Haram al-Sharif. Separately, Israeli forces arrest 1 Palestinian during a raid in the Old City. (MNA, WAFA 12/23; PCHR 12/27)

PLO secretary general Saeb Erakat says that the decision, announced on 12/22, to dissolve the Palestinian Legislative Council “goes hand in hand with efforts of transition from the period of the Palestinian Authority to into the State of Palestine period.” (MNA 12/23)

Thousands of Palestinians gather along Gaza’s border to continue the Great March of Return. IDF troops violently disperse the demonstrations near Gaza City, al-Bureij refugee camp, Jabaliya refugee camp, Khan Yunis, and Rafah; 3 Palestinians are killed and at least 47 are injured (1 of the injured Palestinians will succumb to his injuries the following day). This brings the death toll stemming from the Great March of Return to 193. Earlier in the day, IDF troops stationed along the border fence near Bayt Lahiya open fire on Palestinian fishermen working near the coast; there are no injuries or damage reported. 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 violently disperse Palestinians, Israelis, and international solidarity activists at Friday protests against the Israeli occupation in Bil‘in near Ramallah and Kafr Qaddum near Qalqilya; 4 Palestinians are injured, including 1 photojournalist. The IDF also arrests 1 Palestinian and issues 1 arrest summons during late-night raids in and around Hebron; and patrols near Tulkarm and Hebron. Israeli settlers raze a swath of Palestinian farmland outside Battir village near Bethlehem. They are reportedly clearing the way for construction of a new road to a nearby settlement. (AFP, EI, HA, MNA, MNA, MNA, TOI, WAFA 12/21; TOI 12/22; PCHR 12/27)

In the West Bank, IDF troops open fire at a Palestinian vehicle driving outside Silwad village near Ramallah, injuring the driver. They also shoot and critically injure a Palestinian minor during clashes sparked by an alleged stone-throwing attack outside Qalqilya. IDF raids in al-Khadir near Bethlehem and Jalazun refugee camp near Ramallah spark additional clashes; 1 Palestinian is injured and 7 are arrested. IDF troops arrest 11 more Palestinians during further raids near Salfit, Ramallah, Hebron, and Tulkarm; and patrol near Hebron throughout the day. Israeli settlers throw stones at Palestinian vehicles driving between Nablus and Ramallah, between Nablus and Tulkarm, and outside Hebron, causing minor damage to several. Three settler families set up makeshift homes on Palestinian-owned land outside the Kiryat Arba settlement in protest of the recent Palestinian attacks on their fellow settlers. Unidentified assailants throw stones at Israeli settlers driving near Nablus, moderately injuring 1 settler. In East Jerusalem, right-wing Jewish activists tour Haram al-Sharif in the morning. Meanwhile, an Israeli settler assaults a Palestinian near the Old City. Israeli forces then arrest the Palestinian victim of the assault and a 2d Palestinian during raids in Silwan. A Palestinian demolishes his own home in Jabal Mukabir to avoid paying Israeli demolition fees. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Jabaliya refugee camp, causing no damage or injuries. (TOI, TOI, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 12/16; MNA, MNA 12/17; HA 12/18; PCHR 12/20)

Following a week of escalated tensions and violence across the West Bank, Israel’s Education Minister Naftali Bennett leads a rally outside Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office in Jerusalem calling for a stronger crackdown on the occupied Palestinian territories. Bennett accuses the “security establishment” of choosing “the rights of Palestinians over the security of Israelis.” The crowd chants slogans calling for Netanyahu to resign. Meanwhile, the Israeli cabinet unanimously votes to back a piece of legislation, dubbed the “Young Settlement Bill,” which would direct the government to administer 66 illegal settlement outposts as it would legal settlements for a period of 2 years. During that time, the government would be directed to figure out a way to retroactively authorize the 66 outposts. (TOI 12/16; FMEP 12/21)

The IDF announces that it has discovered a fourth Hezbollah-built tunnel leading from southern Lebanon into northern Israel in the context of Operation Northern Shield. (HA, TOI, WP 12/16; TOI 12/18)

An elderly Palestinian woman dies of complications related to a heart attack at Haram al-Sharif (Israeli forces reportedly prevented an ambulance from reaching her in time to administer the proper treatment). In the West Bank, Israeli forces carry out the punitive demolition of a Palestinian home in al-Amari refugee camp near Ramallah, sparking clashes with residents of the area; at least 56 Palestinian are injured. The home belonged to the Palestinian responsible for fatally injuring an Israeli soldier during clashes in the camp on 5/24. IDF troops shoot, injure, and arrest a Palestinian minor who was allegedly throwing Molotov cocktails at Israeli settler vehicles outside Ramallah earlier in the day. They also arrest 13 Palestinians during late-night raids near Ramallah, Hebron, and Nablus; and patrol near Hebron, Bethlehem, Qalqilya, and Salfit. Israeli settlers throw stones at Palestinian vehicles near Bethlehem, Qalqilya, Tulkarm, Qalqilya, and Nablus; 1 Palestinian is injured and there are no reports of serious damage. In 4 separate incidents off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Gaza City and Jabaliya refugee camp; 1 fishermen is injured and 3 are arrested. (MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, TOI, TOI, WAFA 12/15; EI 12/18; PCHR 12/20)

Australian prime minister Scott Morrison announces that the Australian government has decided to recognize West Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. He also says that Australia will not move its embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem until a final peace agreement is reached. Morrison’s announcement draws criticism from Israelis and Palestinians alike. PLO secretary general Saeb Erakat calls on Arab and Muslim countries to sever all ties with Australia. Numerous senior Israeli officials criticize Morrison for recognizing only West Jerusalem as Israel’s capital. (AJ, AP, CNN, HA, TOI 12/15)

After a day of violence and intense IDF activity across the Ramallah region on 12/13, tensions remain high in the West Bank. The Israeli authorities maintain the closure of all major roads in the area while they search for the perpetrator of the attack that left 2 Israeli soldiers dead. One Palestinian is killed during clashes sparked by an IDF raid in Jalazun refugee camp. Six Palestinians are injured during clashes sparked by a similar raid in nearby al-Bireh. Two more Palestinians are injured when IDF troops violently disperse a protest outside nearby al-Mughayyir. Separately, a Palestinian stabs and lightly injures an Israeli soldier at an IDF post outside the Beit El settlement; the soldier moderately injures the Palestinian in the ensuing confrontation (the Palestinian will turn himself in to the IDF on 12/15). Unidentified assailants throw rocks at Israeli troops outside al-Bireh, moderately injuring 1 soldier. The IDF then seals off the main Ramallah-Nablus road and conducts raids in the area searching for the assailants. IDF troops shoot and injure 5 Palestinians during clashes sparked by a raid in al-Laban near Nablus; violently disperse Friday protests against the Israeli occupation in central Hebron, Luban al-Sharqiyya near Nablus, and Bil‘in near Ramallah (4 Palestinians are injured); arrest 1 Palestinians and issue 1 arrest summons during additional raids near Hebron; and patrol near Hebron, Bethlehem, Jenin, Nablus, Tulkarm, and Salfit. Israeli settlers throw stones at Palestinian vehicles near Nablus and Qalqilya, and open fire on a Palestinian passersby in Jalazun refugee camp (1 Palestinian is injured and several vehicles are damaged). In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 3 Palestinians during raids in Issawiyya. Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops violently disperse thousands of Palestinians gathering to continue the Great March of Return near Gaza City, Jabaliya refugee camp, Khan Yunis, and Rafah; at least 60 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. (EI, HA, JP, JP, MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, YA 12/14; TOI 12/15; PCHR 12/20)

In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces shoot and kill a Palestinian after he allegedly stabs and injures 2 Israeli police officers in the Old City. Separately, Israeli forces arrest 22 Palestinians allegedly involved in a Hamas-affiliated wedding in the Old City. In the West Bank, armed Palestinians open fire on IDF troops setting up a mobile checkpoint outside the Ofra settlement, killing 2 soldiers and critically injuring 2 more. After the shooting, the IDF shuts down all roads leading into Ramallah and conducts extensive raids in the area searching for the assailants; 40 Palestinians are arrested. Meanwhile, IDF troops shoot and kill a Palestinian driver after he allegedly rams a group of Israelis outside al-Bireh, lightly injuring 1. Some Palestinian witnesses say that the initial collision appeared to be an accident. IDF troops later conduct raids in al-Bireh, arresting 5 Palestinians and sparking clashes; 2 Palestinians are injured. They also arrest 28 Palestinians and issue 1 arrest summons during late-night raids in and around Hebron, Bethlehem, and Nablus; and patrol near Tulkarm, Hebron, Nablus, and Ramallah. Israeli settlers throw stones at Palestinian vehicles driving near Nablus, damaging 7 and sparking minor clashes between their IDF escort and Palestinians in the area; there are no reported injuries. Later, the IDF shuts down several checkpoints south of Nablus to secure the area for a settler protest against recent Palestinian violence. Some of the settler protesters throw stones at Palestinian homes in the area; 2 Palestinians are injured and there is no major damage reported. Israeli settlers also throw stones and otherwise assault Palestinians and their property near al-Bireh, Ramallah, Qalqilya, Nablus, and Hebron; 2 Palestinians are injured, 1 Palestinian home is damaged, and 20 Palestinian vehicles are lightly damaged. Along Gaza’s border, Israeli forces conduct a limited incursion to level land near Bayt Lahiya. (HA, JP, JP, JP, MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, TOI, TOI, TOI, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, YA 12/13; EI, MNA, TOI, YA 12/14; PCHR 12/20)

Amid an uptick in Israeli violence against Palestinians in the West Bank, PA president Mahmoud Abbas accuses Israel of creating a climate of incitement through repeated incursions into major Palestinian cities. “Our constant policy is to reject violence, incursions and settlers’ terror and that incitement should stop and not to create an atmosphere that contributes to the aggravation of the situation.” Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu, for his part, announces plans to promote the retroactive authorization of thousands of Israeli settler homes in the West Bank, the construction of 82 new homes in the Ofra settlement, and the establishment of 2 new settlement industrial zones in response to the violence. “They are thinking of uprooting us from our land, but they will not succeed,” he says. According to a senior Israeli official, Netanyahu also conveyed a message to Hamas threatening to break the cease-fire in Gaza if violence in the West Bank continues. In the evening, approximately 1,000 right-wing Israeli protesters gather outside Netanyahu’s residence in Jerusalem to call for his resignation, burn pictures of Abbas, and push for the IDF to “crush the terrorist authority,” as one protester puts it. (MNA, TOI 12/13; HA, HA, TOI 12/14)

In the West Bank, IDF troops violently disperse dozens of Palestinians gathering in Nablus to protest the detention of several Fatah activists earlier this week; 5 Palestinians are reportedly injured. They violently disperse another protest in central Nablus against the Israeli occupation (1 Palestinian is injured); fire sound bombs and tear gas at Palestinian minors returning from school in central Hebron; arrest 17 Palestinians during late-night raids near Ramallah, Bethlehem, Qalqilya, Hebron, Tulkarm, and Jenin; and patrol in and around Nablus, Jenin, Tulkarm, Salfit, and Hebron. Israeli forces seize a tractor from a Palestinian farm outside Bardala in the northern Jordan Valley. Israeli settlers puncture the tires of 4 Palestinian vehicles and spray racist graffiti on nearby walls in Odlah village near Nablus. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 4 Palestinians during a late-night raid in Hizma. In central Israel, right-wing Israeli activists puncture the tires of 32 Palestinian-owned vehicles and spray racist graffiti on nearby walls in Kafr Kassim. (HA, JP, MNA, MNA, TOI, WAFA, WAFA 12/2; PCHR 12/6)

The Israeli authorities release the PA’s governor in Jerusalem, Adnan Ghaith, from detention, but they also ban him from entering the West Bank for 2 weeks. Ghaith was arrested during a raid on his home on 11/24. The Israeli authorities also order the release of 32 other East Jerusalem Palestinians held on suspicion of supporting or serving in the PA security forces. (HA, JP, TOI, WAFA 12/2)

Israel’s cabinet approves NIS 700 million (approximately $187 million) in funding for a plan to “strengthen the civilian resilience” of communities in southern Israel surrounding Gaza. “They are steadfast and we support them,” Prime Minister Netanyahu says. (TOI 12/2)

The PA Ministry of Agriculture imposes a ban on purchases of lamb from Israel. The move comes amid a drop in lamb prices, and ministry officials say it is an effort to protect Palestinian lamb sellers. (TOI, TOI, WAFA 12/19; TOI 12/27)

Thousands of Palestinians gather along Gaza’s border fence to continue the Great March of Return. Hamas reportedly orders the protesters to stay away from the fence so as not to provoke any escalation of violence. Nevertheless, IDF troops violently disperse the demonstrations near Gaza City, Khan Yunis, and Jabaliya refugee camp; 60 Palestinians are injured. Also along Gaza’s border fence, Israeli forces conduct a limited incursion to level land near Khan Yunis and open fire on Palestinian youths approaching the border fence near Bayt Lahiya, causing no damage or 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 violently disperse Palestinians at a Friday protest against the Israeli occupation in 3 villages near Ramallah (Ras Karkar, al-Mughayyir, and Bil‘in) and Kafr Qaddum near Qalqilya; 4 Palestinians are injured. They also arrest 2 Palestinians during raids in and around Bethlehem; and patrol near Nablus, Hebron, Tulkarm, and Qalqilya. Israeli forces confiscate a bulldozer from a Palestinian construction site near Salfit. Israeli settlers puncture the tires of several Palestinian-owned vehicles and spray racist graffiti on nearby walls in al-Jaba‘ village near Bethlehem. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 1 Palestinian during a late-night raid in al-Salam. (JP, MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, TOI, TOI, WAFA, WAFA 11/30; JP 12/1; PCHR 12/6)

A Jordanian laborer assaults and moderately injures 2 Israelis in Eilat. The Israeli police say they suspect the attacker of having political motivations. The Jordanian was in Israel with a work visa. His first day of work in Israel was 11/29. (HA 11/30)

In Gaza, a Palestinian is seriously injured when he accidentally detonates a piece of unexploded Israeli ordnance in Bayt Hanun. 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 conduct arrest raids in Talouzah village near Nablus, sparking minor clashes with stone-throwing Palestinians; 1 Palestinian vehicle is damaged and there are no reported injuries. They arrest 5 more Palestinians during late-night raids in and around Nablus, Qalqilya, Bethlehem, and Ramallah; and patrol near Nablus and Hebron. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces demolish a Palestinian home in Jabal Mukabir and a commercial building in Shu‘fat. (MNA, WAFA, WAFA 11/28; PCHR 11/29)

Israel’s High Court of Justice rules to grant ownership of 522 dunams (128 acres) of Palestinian land near Bethlehem to the Jewish National Fund, ending a 22-year legal battle. (MNA 11/28; FMEP 12/7)

IDF troops shoot and kill a Palestinian driver at the Gush Etzion junction south of Bethlehem after he allegedly rams his car into a group of Israeli soldiers; 3 Israeli soldiers are injured in the collision. Palestinian eyewitnesses say that the collision only happened after the driver lost control of his vehicle. Elsewhere in the West Bank, Israeli forces demolish a Palestinian home in Mariha village near Jenin. They also temporarily shut down Beit El checkpoint near Ramallah after a suspicious object is found on the premises. IDF troops arrest 15 Palestinians during raids near Nablus, Qalqilya, Jenin, Tulkarm, and Hebron; and patrol near Jenin, Qalqilya, and Hebron. Israeli settlers raze 10 dunams (approximately 2.5 acres) of Palestinian land near Nablus, then they set up water lines and prepare to expand settlement infrastructure in the area. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 32 Fatah-affiliated Palestinians suspected of working for or otherwise supporting the PA’s security forces during raids across the city. Meanwhile, hundreds of Palestinians gather along Gaza’s northern coast to continue the Great March of Return and to cheer on a handful of Palestinian boats sailing in a symbolic challenge to the Israeli blockade. IDF troops and Israeli naval forces violently disperse the demonstrations; 19 Palestinians are injured. Also off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Jabaliya refugee camp, causing no damage or injuries. (EI, HA, JP, JP, MNA, MNA, MNA, TOI, TOI, TOI, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, YA 11/26; MNA 11/27; PCHR 11/29)

In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces violently disperse Palestinians gathering near the Old City to protest the detention of Adnan Ghaith, the PA’s governor of Jerusalem, on 11/24; 1 protester is arrested. In the West Bank, Israeli settlers puncture the tires of 4 Palestinian vehicles and leave racist graffiti on nearby walls in al-Mughayyir near Ramallah. IDF troops arrest 15 Palestinians during late-night raids near Bethlehem, Ramallah, Hebron, and Bethlehem; and patrol in and around Nablus, Tulkarm, Qalqilya, and Hebron. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Rafah and Jabaliya refugee camp, causing no damage or injuries. Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops open fire on a Hamas border control office near al-Maghazi refugee camp, causing no damage or injuries. (MNA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 11/25; TOI 11/26; PCHR 11/29)

Thousands of Palestinians gather along Gaza’s border to continue the Great March of Return. IDF troops violently disperse them near Jabaliya refugee camp, Gaza City, Rafah, and Khan Yunis; 14 Palestinians are injured. Also along Gaza’s border, IDF troops open fire on Palestinian farmland near Khan Yunis, causing no serious damage. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats working near Bayt Lahiya, causing no damage or injuries (3 fishermen are arrested). In the West Bank, Israeli settlers puncture the tires of 20 Palestinian vehicles and leave racist graffiti on nearby walls in Asira and Huwwara villages near Nablus. Separately, settlers puncture the tires of several Palestinian vehicles in Bayt Iksa near Jerusalem. IDF troops arrest a Palestinian at a checkpoint near Bethlehem when he is found with a knife on his person; arrest 2 Palestinians during late-night raids in Hebron; and patrol near Hebron and Nablus. They also violently disperse Palestinians, Israelis, and international activists at Friday protests against the Israeli occupation in Kafr Qaddum near Qalqilya; 4 protesters are injured, including 1 Italian activist. (HA, JP, MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, TOI, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 11/23; PCHR 11/29)

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)

During an undisclosed operation in southern Gaza, undercover Israeli special forces open fire on Hamas fighters from a moving car in Khuza‘a, sparking an exchange of heavy fire; 1 Israeli soldier and 1 Hamas fighter are killed and another Israeli soldier is critically injured. While the Israeli special forces are still in Gaza, the Israeli Air Force targets armed Palestinian fighters near Khuza‘a with a number of air strikes, killing 6, including a senior member of Hamas’s military wing. After the strikes, unidentified Palestinians launch at least 17 rockets and other projectiles into southern Israel. Three are intercepted by the Iron Dome missile defense system; the rest land in open areas, causing no damage or injuries. Israeli artillery and aircraft then strike more than 50 sites across Gaza, causing dozens of Palestinian injuries and extensive damage. Separately, dozens of right-wing Israeli activists block the road leading to the Kerem Shalom border crossing, preventing trucks bearing basic commodities and fuel to enter Gaza for hours in protest of the violence at the border protests on 11/9. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Rafah, causing no damage or injuries. In the West Bank, IDF troops violently disperse dozens of Palestinian students at a rally commemorating the late Palestinian leader Yasir Arafat in Hebron; there are no reported injuries. They also arrest 5 Palestinians and issue 1 arrest summons during late-night raids near Ramallah, Hebron, Tulkarm, and Bethlehem; deliver stop-work orders to a Palestinian school under renovation in Hebron; and patrol in and around Qalqilya and Hebron. (MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, TOI, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, YA 11/11; HA, HA, JP, JT, MNA 11/12; PCHR 11/15)

Dozens of Palestinians gather in central Hebron to call for the Israeli authorities to return the corpses of their loved ones who were killed in confrontations with Israeli troops. The Israeli authorities are reportedly withholding 33 such corpses. Elsewhere in the West Bank, IDF troops arrest 3 Palestinians during raids near Bethlehem; and patrol near Jenin, Tulkarm, and Qalqilya. After sealing the entrances to Tuqu‘ near Bethlehem, Israeli forces fire tear gas and rubber-coated steel bullets toward Palestinian students at a high school in the village, 8 Palestinians are injured. (MNA, WAFA 11/10; PCHR 11/15)

A Palestinian succumbs to injuries he sustained when the IDF violently dispersed Friday protests in al-Mazra‘a on 10/26. He has been in a coma since he was hit in the head with a bullet during those clashes. (WAFA 11/10; PCHR 11/15)

Al-Akhbar reports that Israel and Qatar have agreed to establish a trade route between Cyrpus and Gaza to be monitored by international forces. Hamas reportedly consented to the same surveillance system as is used at the Rafah border crossing, including cameras, international inspectors, and computer networking. No party to the alleged deal confirms any of the reported details. Meanwhile, Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu defends his decision to allow Qatari funds into Gaza to pay civil servants in the Hamas-run government. “I am doing what I can in coordination with the southern communities to restore peace and prevent a humanitarian crisis,” he says. “Right now, this is the right step. For every step, without exception, there is a price. When you take steps as a leader, there is always a price, if you cannot bear the cost, you cannot lead.” (AKH, HA, HA, TOI, YA 11/10)

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

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

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

An Israeli aircraft conducts an air strike along Gaza’s border fence near Khan Yunis, killing 3 Palestinian minors. An IDF spokesperson says that the Palestinians were attempting to place a suspicious object along the border fence. Hours after the strike, hundreds of Palestinians march to the homes of senior Hamas and Islamic Jihad in Palestine (PIJ) leaders demanding that they retaliate against Israel. PIJ then puts out a statement threatening to respond and rejecting the Israeli narrative about what the 3 minors were doing. Meanwhile, IDF troops stationed along the border fence open fire on Palestinian bird-hunters working near Bayt Hanun; 1 Palestinian is injured. In the West Bank, Israeli forces chase a Palestinian shepherd off his land in the northern Jordan Valley. IDF troops assault and injure a Palestinian, arrest 9 other Palestinians, issue 1 arrest summons, and confiscate a Palestinian vehicle during late-night raids near Bethlehem, Hebron, Jenin, Tulkarm, and Qalqilya; and patrol near Nablus, Hebron, and Qalqilya. Israeli settlement security guards assault 2 Palestinians near Nablus. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 5 Palestinians during late-night raids in Qalandia refugee camp, Anata refugee camp, and Shu‘fat. (HA, JP, JP, MNA, TOI, WAFA, WAFA, YA 10/28; MNA 10/29; PCHR 11/1)

A Palestinian succumbs to injuries sustained when IDF troops opened fire on Palestinian protesters along Gaza’s border fence on 10/26. This brings the death toll stemming from the Great March of Return to 185. (HA, MNA, TOI, WAFA 10/28)

The PLO Central Council convenes in Ramallah for the first of 2 days of meetings on a variety of issues facing the Palestinian people. Opening the meetings, PA president Mahmoud Abbas says, “We are facing a historical moment; either to be or not to be.” He calls for the Palestinian people to support the PLO and reaffirms that there can be no Palestinian state without Gaza or a capital in Jerusalem. (HA, MNA, WAFA, WAFA, YA 10/28)

After a night of air strikes in Gaza, unidentified Gazans fire 5 rockets at southern Israel. Four are intercepted by the Iron Dome missile defense system; the 5th lands in an open area, causing no damage or injuries. The Israeli Air Force then conduct air strikes on sites near Jabaliya refugee camp and Khan Yunis, causing damage. In the West Bank, an IDF driver rams 2 Palestinians during a patrol near Qalqilya, causing moderate injuries to both. Separately, IDF troops arrest 4 Palestinians during late-night raids near Bethlehem and Tulkarm; and patrol near Hebron. (HA, MNA, WAFA 10/27; PCHR 11/1)

An IDF spokesperson claims that Islamic Jihad in Palestine (PIJ) was responsible for the rocket fire on 10/26 “with clear guidance from Iran and the Revolutionary Guards’ Quds Force in Syria.” A PIJ spokesperson then says that the group has reached a new agreement to end the violence in Gaza, thanks to Egyptian mediation. “After contacts between the Islamic Jihad leadership and the brothers in Egypt, it was agreed that a comprehensive cease-fire will begin immediately,” he says. (HA, MNA, TOI, TOI, TOI, YA 10/27)

A day after Israeli prime minister Netanyahu visited Oman, Omani foreign minister Yusuf bin Alawi bin Abdullah says that the Omani government is “very optimistic” about the Trump administration’s Palestinian-Israeli peace efforts. “We are not mediators in Israel-Palestine, but we offer facilitation and ideas to help 2 parties to come together,” he adds. “We are not saying that the road is now easy and paved with flowers, but our priority is to put an end to the conflict and move to a new world.” (AFP, HA, REU, TOI, YA 10/27)

The World Bank announces that it has increased its annual allotment of aid to the Palestinians from $55 million to $90 million this year. The organization’s new strategy, adopted in 12/2017, has a “very strong focus on job creation and private sector development,” according to a World Bank spokesperson. (WAFA 10/27)

Thousands of Palestinians gather along Gaza’s border fence to continue the Great March of Return. IDF troops violently disperse protestors near Jabaliya refugee camp, Rafah, and Gaza City; 5 Palestinians are killed and at least 200 are injured. The killings bring the death toll stemming from the Great March of Return to 184. Hours after the protests conclude, unidentified Palestinians launch 34 rockets from Gaza into southern Israel; 17 are intercepted by Israel’s Iron Dome missile defense system and the rest land in open areas, causing no damage or injuries. The Israeli Air Force then conducts a wave of air strikes across Gaza, targeting more than 90 sites and causing extensive damage to many buildings, including a hospital in Gaza City. In the West Bank, IDF troops violently disperse Friday protests against the Israeli occupation and the settlements in Kafr Qaddum near Qalqilya, central Hebron, and 2 villages near Ramallah (Bil‘in and al-Mazra‘a); 2 Palestinians are killed, 8 are injured, and 1 is arrested. Three Israeli soldiers are also injured in the clashes today. IDF troops also assault and arrest 1 Palestinian, arrest 3 others, and issue 1 arrest summons during late-night raids near Tulkarm, Bethlehem, Hebron; and patrol near Hebron and Qalqilya. (EI, MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, TOI, TOI, WAFA 10/26; MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, TOI, WAFA, YA 10/27; HA 11/29; PCHR 11/1)

Hours before the protests, killings, and air strikes in Gaza, Al-Hayat reports that the Egyptian officials who have been shuttling back and forth between Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza over the past 2 weeks have brokered an understanding between Hamas and the Israeli government. Hamas reportedly agreed to end all violence along the border, including acts of violence perpetrated during Great March of Return protests and all incendiary balloon and kite attacks, in exchange for Israel lifting certain restrictions on Gaza. Separately, Israeli defense minister Avigdor Lieberman says he is “hopeful” that this coming weekend will pass without major clashes along Gaza’s border fence.  He also says that he will need to see a month of calm before implementing any more major changes. “We need to see what happens at least until the end of 11/2018, and then we can reach conclusions one way or another.” (AH, HA, JP, MNA, TOI, TOI 10/26)

IDF troops shoot and kill a Palestinian in central Hebron after he stabs and lightly injures an Israeli soldier. Elsewhere in the West Bank, IDF troops arrest a Palestinian at a checkpoint near Nablus when he is found to be in possession of a knife. They conduct overnight raids in Tulkarm, sparking clashes with stone-throwing Palestinians; there are no serious injuries reported. They arrest 6 Palestinians on further raids in and around Bethlehem, Qalqilya, and Hebron; and patrol near Nablus and Hebron. Israeli forces raze 14 dunams (approximately 3.4 acres) of Palestinian land outside Hebron, uprooting approximately 320 olive and almond trees and demolishing 3 water wells. They uproot an additional 60 olive and orange saplings from Palestinian land near Jericho. Israeli settlers puncture the tires of 7 Palestinian-owned vehicles and leave racist graffiti on nearby walls in Marda village near Salfit overnight. Along Gaza’s border overnight, IDF troops violently disperse dozens of Palestinians setting fire to tires, lighting fireworks, and otherwise continuing the Great March of Return near al-Bureij refugee camp; 4 Palestinians are injured. Meanwhile, hundreds of Palestinians gathering near Jabaliya refugee camp 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 stationed along the border fence and Israeli naval forces disperse the demonstrations; 46 Palestinians are injured (4 seriously). Israeli firefighters put out 3 fires in open areas near Ashqelon that were reportedly sparked by incendiary kites and balloons flown from Gaza. Off Gaza’s coast late at night, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Jabaliya refugee camp and Bayt Lahiya, causing no damage or injuries (2 fishermen are arrested). (HA, HA, JP, MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, TOI, TOI, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 10/22; MNA 10/23; PCHR 10/25)

A senior IDF officer says that the IDF recently identified a new Hezbollah observation post built to look like an environmental NGO site along the Israel-Lebanon border. It is the 6th such site the IDF has identified this year. “Hezbollah is building military infrastructure along the border with its men moving there armed when they are watching the Israeli border,” the officer says. “This is military infrastructure in civilian guise.” A UNIFIL spokesperson responds, rejecting Israel’s claim that there are armed forces in border zone. “UNIFIL has not observed any unauthorized armed persons at the locations or found any basis to report a violation of [UNSC] Resolution 1701 but continues to monitor activities closely.”  (HA, JP, TOI 10/22)

Jordan’s Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi says that Jordan has no plans to negotiate with Israel over the 2 pieces of land that were leased to Israel for 25 years in the context of the 1994 Jordan-Israel peace treaty (Jordan’s King Abdullah announced plans not to renew those leases on 10/21). “We are a country with international standing,” he says. “We acted by the letter of the law and we have the tools to protect our interests.” (HA, TOI 10/22)

Thousands of Palestinians gather along Gaza’s border to continue the Great March of Return. IDF troops violently disperse the demonstrations near Khan Yunis, Rafah, al-Bureij refugee camp, Jabaliya refugee camp and Gaza City; at least at least 130 Palestinian are injured (2 critically). Meanwhile, Israeli aircraft conduct air strikes in Khan Yunis and al-Bureij refugee camp; 3 Palestinians are injured. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Dayr al-Balah, causing no damage or injuries. In the West Bank, Israeli forces seal off the main entrance to Khan al-Ahmar, the Jerusalem-area Bedouin village slated for evacuation and demolition. They prevent activists from entering and exiting the village and violently disperse the activists already inside when they start to protest after Friday prayers; several protesters are lightly injured. Meanwhile, IDF troops issue 1 arrest summon during late-night raids near Bethlehem and Tulkarm; patrol near Nablus, Hebron, and Qalqilya; and violently disperse Palestinians and international activists at Friday demonstrations against the Israeli occupation in Qalqilya (1 Palestinian is injured). (MNA, MNA, TOI, WAFA 10/19; MNA 10/20; PCHR 10/25)

A senior Palestinian official involved in the Egypt-mediated talks over a long-term cease-fire with Israel says that Hamas may restrain attendance at this afternoon’s planned protests in order to maintain trust with the Egyptians. An hour later, a Hamas committee involved in organizing the protests calls on the people of Gaza not to approach the border fence today so as not to give Israel an excuse to attack “Your blood is valuable, keep it to establish the homeland.” Meanwhile, the Israeli press reports that at least some senior Israeli officials believe that Hamas has changed course regarding the ongoing protests and violence along Gaza’s border, limiting the protests in order to give space for the Egypt-mediated talks. (HA, JP, TOI, YA 10/19; TOI 10/20)

An Israeli drone bombs a group of Palestinians east of Bayt Hanun in Gaza, causing damage but no reported injuries. The group was reportedly launching incendiary balloons and kites into southern Israel. Separately, Israeli forces conduct a limited incursion into Gaza to level land along the border fence near Gaza City. In the evening, IDF troops violently disperse Palestinians gathering along the border fence near al-Bureij refugee camp to continue the Great March of Return; 2 Palestinians are injured. In the West Bank, Israeli forces return to Khan al-Ahmar after clashes in the area on 10/15. They level land ahead of the village’s planned evacuation and demolition. IDF troops arrest 11 Palestinians during late-night raids in and around Bethlehem, Hebron, Qalqilya, Nablus, and Tulkarm; and patrol near Nablus and Hebron. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest a Palestinian photojournalist during a raid in Ras al-Amud. (MNA, TOI, TOI, WAFA, WAFA 10/16; PCHR 10/18)

Israeli defense minister Avigdor Lieberman says that Israel’s security cabinet should order an attack on Hamas “even at a price of moving to a wide-scale confrontation.” He adds, “That’s the only way to lower the level of violence [along Gaza’s border] to zero or close to zero.” The cabinet is expected to meet again on 10/17. (HA 10/16)

One day after the first reports that the Australian government is considering moving the Australian embassy in Israel to Jerusalem, Australian prime minister Scott Morrison holds a press conference to clarify his position. “We’re committed to a 2-state solution, but frankly it hasn’t been going that well, not a lot of progress has been made, and you don’t keep doing the same thing and expect different results,” he says, indicating that he is “open-minded” to proposals to move the Australian embassy to Jerusalem. (AFP, HA, JP, TOI, YA 10/16)

IDF troops shoot and kill a Palestinian at a junction near Salfit after he allegedly attempts to stab several of the soldiers. Elsewhere in the West Bank, Israeli settlers flood with wastewater parts of Khan al-Ahmar, the Jerusalem-area Bedouin village slated for evacuation and demolition. Later, Palestinian and international solidarity activists block the roads leading into the village, sparking clashes with the Israeli forces attempting to prepare for the demolitions; 7 Palestinians are injured and 4 activists are arrested. Separately, IDF troops violently disperse Palestinians gathering in al-Lubban near Nablus to protest the recent closure of the village’s school; 1 Palestinian is injured. They also arrest 20 Palestinians and issue 1 arrest summons during raids near Bethlehem, Ramallah, Tulkarm, Hebron, Bethlehem, Qalqilya, and Salfit; and patrol near Nablus and Tulkarm. Israeli settlers assault and moderately injure a Palestinian harvesting olives near Nablus. Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops violently disperse hundreds of Palestinians gathering near Jabaliya refugee camp to continue the Great March of Return and to cheer on a number of Palestinian boats sailing offshore in a symbolic challenge to the Israeli blockade; at least 24 Palestinians are injured. Separately, an Israeli aircraft bombs a Hamas post near Rafah after 2 Palestinians detonate a small explosive along the border fence in the area, causing minor damage. In East Jerusalem, Israeli MK Yehuda Glick tours Haram al-Sharif, performing prayers with an Israeli police escort. (HA, JP, MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, TOI, TOI, TOI, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, YA 10/15; MNA, MNA 10/16; PCHR 10/18)

In response to the recent threats of a full-scale IDF operation in Gaza, Hamas puts out a statement: “The threats serve as an incentive for increased participation in the Great March of Return, its continuity and its development.” (JP 10/15)

The Australian press reports that Australian prime minister Scott Morrison recently told Israeli prime minister Netanyahu that he is considering following the U.S. lead and moving the Australian embassy in Israel to Jerusalem. “I am saying I’m open to considering it,” Morrison reportedly said. (HA, HA, YA 10/15)

The Syrian authorities re-open the Qunaytra border crossing in the Golan Heights, allowing UN peacekeepers to travel between Israel and Syria for the first time in 4 years. The Syrian army recaptured the territory surrounding the crossing in 7/2018. (AP, HA, TOI, YA 10/15)

An Israeli drone bombs a site east of Bayt Hanun in Gaza in the evening, moderately injuring 1 Palestinian. An IDF spokesperson says that the strike targeted a group of Palestinians who were throwing firebombs across the border fence into Israel earlier in the day. Separately, IDF troops shoot and injure a Palestinian at a Great March of Return tent camp near Gaza City. In the West Bank, Israeli settlers uproot or otherwise destroy approximately 370 grape vines and 30 olive trees outside al-Khadir village near Bethlehem, 50 olive tree saplings outside Tell village near Nablus, 22 olive trees from a grove near Qalqilya, and 100 olive trees outside al-Mughayyir near Ramallah. Separately, an Israeli settler driver runs over 2 Palestinians near Qalqilya, injuring both. Meanwhile, IDF troops arrest 16 Palestinians during late-night raids near Ramallah, Tulkarm, Bethlehem, Qalqilya, and Hebron; and patrol near Hebron, Salfit, Qalqilya, and Tulkarm. In East Jerusalem, Israeli settlers uproot dozens of Palestinian trees in Silwan. Israeli forces arrest 1 Palestinian during a raid in Abu Dis. (HA, MNA, MNA, MNA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 10/14; MNA, MNA, MNA 10/15; PCHR 10/18)

Amid escalating violence along Gaza’s border fence, Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu says that if the attacks from Gaza don’t stop, Israel will offer a “different” response. “Hamas apparently didn’t get the message,” he says, referring to the last round of Israeli air strikes in Gaza. “If they don’t stop the attacks against us, they will be stopped in a different way and it will be painful—very painful.” Later, Israel’s security cabinet reportedly decides to wait and see if Hamas will heed Netanyahu’s warning before ordering a broader assault on Gaza. (HA, JP, TOI, TOI, YA 10/14; MNA 10/15)

The Israeli cabinet approves NIS 22 million (approximately $6.1 million) to expand the Israeli settlements in Hebron. The plan calls for the construction of 31 housing units, 2 new kindergartens, a daycare center, and a public park on the site of a former IDF post. (HA, JP, MNA, TOI 10/14)

Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops detect and dismantle an explosive device lashed to a balloon in an open area near the border fence. Separately, 2 Palestinians cut through the border fence near Jabaliya refugee camp, throw an incendiary device at an IDF post, and return to Gaza. The attack causes no reported damage. In the West Bank, Israeli forces demolish a water pipeline in Kafr Qaddum near Qalqilya, sparking clashes with stone-throwing Palestinians; 1 Palestinian is lightly injured. IDF troops conduct raids in al-Walaja near Bethlehem, sparking minor clashes; there are no reported injuries. They arrest 12 Palestinians during further raids in and around Hebron, Bethlehem, and Tulkarm; and patrol near Nablus, Bethlehem, Tulkarm, Salfit, and Qalqilya. Israeli settlers harass Palestinian farmers working near Nablus; there are no reported injuries. A settler assaults a Palestinian in Hebron’s Old City, breaking he man’s jaw. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 4 Palestinians during late-night raids in al-Ram, sparking clashes; there are no reported injuries. They arrest 1 more Palestinian during a raid in Silwan. (MNA, TOI, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 10/13; MNA 10/14; PCHR 10/18) 

Israeli defense minister Avigdor Lieberman says that he will not allow any more Qatari-funded fuel transfers to Gaza until all violence along Gaza’s border is “entirely” over. “As long as the violent protests continue on the Gaza border, including the launching of incendiary balloons and kites and the burning of tires near Israeli towns, the fuel and gas for the Gaza Strip will not be renewed.” Lieberman ordered the transfers to stop on 10/12. Meanwhile, Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh says that the protests and other resistance activities along Gaza’s border will continue until the “siege on Jerusalem, [Haram al-Sharif] and all the lands of Palestine is lifted.” (TOI 10/13)