The Palestine Chronology

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers uprooted dozens of almond trees and grapevines in Bayt Umar and threatened the Palestinian landowners with guns. Israeli forces razed Palestinian-owned land in ‘Ayn Bus and seized 1 greenhouse in Bethlehem. Israeli forces also shot and injured 1 Palestinian with live ammunition as he was trying to enter Israel for work through the separation barrier near Far‘un. Elsewhere, Israeli forces dismantled and seized 1 agricultural structure in Tuqu‘. Israeli forces also arrested 1 Palestinian at the Qalandia checkpoint, claiming he wanted to stab a soldier with a screwdriver. 15 others were arrested during raids in and around Qabatiya, Jenin refugee camp, Burqin, Ramallah, Kafr Malik, Tulkarm, Tubas, and Nablus. Off the coast of Gaza, Israeli naval forces opened fire at Palestinian fishermen within 7 nautical miles northwest of Rafah. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 1/12; PCHR 1/14)

The Israeli government told its high court of justice that it had delivered 100 COVID-19 vaccine doses to the PA and that more doses would arrive in some 10 days. The PA health ministry denied having received any doses of COVID-19 vaccines from Israel. (HA, WAFA 1/13)

The Israeli human rights organization B’Tselem released a position paper “A regime of Jewish supremacy from the Jordan River to the Mediterranean Sea: this is apartheid,” calling Israel an apartheid state. B’Tselem argued that the distinction between Israel proper, East Jerusalem, the West Bank, and Gaza has been obfuscated so that “the entire area between the Mediterranean Sea and the Jordan River is organized under a single principle: advancing and cementing the supremacy of one group—Jews—over another—Palestinians.” B’Tselem said it no longer could treat the occupied Palestinian territories as distinct from Israel as it has in the past and therefore needs to treat the area as 1 entity operating as an apartheid state. 2 particular developments led B’Tselem to change its viewpoint: the Nation-State law and the threats of annexation of Area C. Several Palestinian human rights organizations including al-Haq and the Palestinian Centre for Human Rights have already called Israel an apartheid state. (AQ 11/12/2019; +972, AJ, AP, B’Tselem, CNN, GDN, HA, IN 1/12)

Israel attacked several places in Dayr al-Zur and Abu Kamal in eastern Syria with airstrikes, killing 57 people and wounding at least 37. According to a U.S. intelligence official, the strikes were made with intelligence from the U.S.; U.S. secretary of state Mike Pompeo had discussed the airstrikes with Mossad director Yossi Cohen at a D.C. restaurant on 1/11. Secretary Pompeo also announced that the terrorist group Al Qaeda has a home base in Iran without providing any evidence, a charge the Iranian foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif called “warmongering lies.” On 1/10, Secretary Pompeo said that the Houthi rebels in Yemen would be added to the U.S. list of foreign terrorist organizations, a designation many humanitarian organizations lambasted as it will make it impossible to deliver aid to the civilian population living in Houthi-controlled areas who are heavily hunger stricken. (REU 1/10; AJ, AJ, AJ, AJ, HA, HA, HA, REU 1/11; AJ, AJ, REU, REU 1/12; AA, AJ, FOX, HA, HA, HA, JP 1/13; HA 1/15; HA, HA 1/17)

In the West Bank, IDF troops shoot and injure a Palestinian driver after he allegedly attempts to ram a group of Israeli settlers at Huwwara checkpoint. They also arrest 5 Palestinians during raids near Bethlehem, Tulkarm, and Nablus; and patrol near Hebron throughout the day. Israeli forces demolish a Palestinian car repair shop near Nablus. Israeli settlers assault and injure a Palestinian shepherd working his land near Nablus. In East Jerusalem, a number of right-wing Jewish activists tour Haram al-Sharif. Israeli forces arrest 1 Palestinian during a raid in Silwan. Along Gaza’s border, Israeli forces conduct a limited incursion to level land near Bayt Lahiya. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Jabaliya refugee camp, causing no damage or injuries. (HA, JP, MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 12/26; PCHR 12/27; PCHR 1/3)

PA foreign minister Riyad al-Maliki says that he plans to initiate an application for the State of Palestine to obtain full membership at the UN during his next visit to New York City in 1/2019. The application, if accepted by the UN Security Council, would see Palestine’s status upgraded from non-member observer state. Later, Israel’s Ambassador to the UN Danny Danon says that Israel and the U.S. are already working together to “stop the [new Palestinian] initiative.” (JP, WAFA 12/26; TOI 12/27)

PA security forces seal off the entrances to the Palestinian Legislative Council building in Ramallah, preventing Hamas officials from holding a planned press conference. A PA official says that although Hamas claims they were attempting to hold a press conference, their true intention was to open a session of the PLC in protest of the 12/22 announcement of a new round of PLC elections. (JP, TOI 12/26)

The High Planning Committee of Israel’s Civil Administration meets for a 2d day to discuss proposals to expand Israel’s West Bank settlements. Between today and yesterday, they have advanced plans for 2,191 new residences in various settlements, 3 new industrial zones, and the retroactive authorization of 2 illegal settlement outposts. Separately, Israel’s Civil Administration announces plans to put together a new proposal for as many as 2,500 new settler residences at the site of the Givat Eitam outpost near Bethlehem, which is within the municipal boundaries of the Efrat settlement, but not contiguous to any of that settlement’s buildings. According to the Israeli NGO Peace Now, an expanded Givat Eitam would “block Bethlehem from the south, and prevent any development in the only direction that has not yet been blocked by settlements.” (HA, PCN, TOI 12/26)

Haaretz reports that Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu has asked the IDF to declare an end to Operation Northern Shield, but to continue detecting and demolishing the cross-border tunnels allegedly built by Hezbollah. Some senior defense sources say that Netanyahu no longer has a political reason for a formal operation in the north now that he is running for re-election. Meanwhile, the IDF announces that it has uncovered and demolished a 5th cross-border tunnel and the Knesset votes to dissolve itself, officially triggering snap elections. (HA, JP, TOI 12/26; MNA 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)

In the West Bank, hundreds of right-wing Jewish activists visit Joseph’s Tomb near Nablus overnight, sparking clashes between their IDF escort and Palestinian residents of the area; 4 Palestinians are injured. Dozens of IDF troops raid the Ramallah headquarters of the PA’s Wafa News and Information Agency, detaining a number of employees, firing tear gas inside the building, and confiscating tapes from surveillance cameras in the building. The raid sparks minor clashes in central Ramallah; 5 Palestinians are injured. Israeli soldiers also shoot and injure 7 Palestinians during clashes sparked by IDF raids in Tubas and Nabi Salih village near Ramallah late at night. Meanwhile, IDF troops arrest 13 Palestinians during further raids near Ramallah, Hebron, Nablus, Tulkarm, and Qalqilya; and patrol in and around Tulkarm and Hebron. Israeli settlers puncture the tires of 3 Palestinian vehicles and leave racist graffiti on nearby walls in Beytin near Ramallah. A separate group of settlers throws rocks at Palestinian vehicles on a road outside Nablus, causing minor damage. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 2 Palestinians during a raid in Jabal Mukabir. Along Gaza’s border, Israeli forces conduct a limited incursion to level land near Gaza City. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Rafah, causing no damage or injuries (2 fishermen are arrested and their boat is confiscated). Later in the day, hundreds of Palestinians gather along Gaza’s northern border 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 demonstrations; 27 Palestinians are injured. (HA, MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 12/10; MNA, MNA 12/11; PCHR 12/13)

Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu says that the Omani government has given permission for Israeli planes to fly through Omani airspace. “Therefore, only one small thing remains for us to do,” he adds, pointing to Saudi Arabia on a map. “We need to [make it so] that El Al can fly over this, and that’s it—we open new markets.” (AP, JP, TOI, YA 12/10)

Unidentified persons riding in a vehicle open fire on Israeli settlers waiting on the side of a road near the Ofra settlement; 7 of the settlers are injured, including 1 pregnant woman. IDF troops in the area open fire on the vehicle, but the assailants flee the scene without apparent injury. Later, IDF troops set up mobile checkpoints and conduct raids in and around the nearby village Silwad, sparking clashes with stone-throwing Palestinians; there are no serious injuries reported. Elsewhere in the West Bank, IDF troops arrest 10 Palestinians and issue 1 arrest summons during late-night raids near Ramallah, Tulkarm, Bethlehem, and Nablus; confiscate 3 makeshift residential structures outside Hebron; and patrol near Nablus and Hebron. An Israeli settler driver rams an elderly Palestinian outside Ni‘lin, causing major injuries. Israeli settlers throw stones at Palestinian vehicles in Ramin village near Tulkarm, causing light damage to 8 of them. In East Jerusalem, dozens of right-wing Jewish activists tour Haram al-Sharif. Israeli forces arrest 11 Palestinians during late-night raids in Hizma, Issawiyya, Ras al-Amud, and Wadi al-Juz. 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 Palestinian shepherds working near Rafah, causing no damage or injuries. (HA, MNA, MNA, WAFA, WAFA, YA 12/9; MNA, WAFA 12/10; PCHR 12/13)

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

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

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

Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops open fire on Palestinian farmers, shepherds, and bird-hunters working near Khan Yunis and Gaza City; there are no reported 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 shoot and injure a Palestinian during clashes sparked by an arrest raid in Abu Qash near Ramallah. Separately, IDF troops open fire on a Palestinian vehicle driving outside Dayr Abu Mash‘al near Ramallah; 3 Palestinian minors are injured (1 critically). Meanwhile, IDF troops arrest 16 Palestinians during raids near Ramallah, Qalqilya, Salfit, Jenin, and Nablus; and patrol in and around Hebron. Israeli settlers throw stones at Palestinian homes in Urif village near Nablus, sparking a minor confrontation with residents of the area; there are no major injuries or damage reported. In East Jerusalem, dozens of right-wing Jewish activists tour Haram al-Sharif in the morning. Israeli forces arrest 2 Palestinians during late-night raids in Qalandia refugee camp. (MNA, MNA, WAFA 11/18; HA, MNA, MNA 11/19; PCHR 11/22)

At a press conference in Tel Aviv, Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu announces that he is taking on the position of defense minister following Avigdor Lieberman’s resignation on 11/14. He also says it would be “irresponsible” to force early elections during “one of our most difficult security periods.” (HA, JP, JP, MNA 11/19)

A U.S. State Department official says that the Trump administration is considering retaliatory measures against the Palestinians following PA president Abbas’s “premature” and “counterproductive” decision to sign accession documents for 11 international treaties and conventions on 11/15. “The U.S. continues to make clear, both with the parties and with international partners, that the only realistic path forward is through direct negotiations aimed at achieving a comprehensive and lasting peace,” the official says. “We are currently reviewing possible consequences of the Palestinians’ recent actions.” (TOI, USSD 11/18)

IDF troops violently disperse hundreds of Palestinians gathering along Gaza’s border fence near Dayr al-Balah to continue the Great March of Return; 7 Palestinians are injured (1 succumbs to his injuries later in the day). This brings the death toll stemming from the Great March of Return to 179. Separately, IDF troops stationed along the border fence shoot and injure a Palestinian approaching the border fence near Khan Yunis. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Gaza City, causing no damage or injuries (2 fishermen are arrested). In the West Bank, IDF troops kill a Palestinian during a confrontation sparked by a late-night raid in Tammun village near Tubas. Three other Palestinians are reported injured during the confrontation. Separately, IDF troops conduct raids in Doha village near Bethlehem overnight, sparking clashes with stone-throwing residents; 1 Palestinian is injured. They also arrest 12 Palestinians during late-night raids in and around Bethlehem and Tulkarm; arrest a Palestinian minor in central Hebron when he is found to be in possession of a knife; patrol near Nablus and Hebron. Israeli forces dismantle and seize 2 makeshift structures from a Palestinian school near Tubas. They also deliver demolition notices to the school’s administrators (Palestinians in the area built the 3-room school building and established the 2 makeshift structures on 8/20). In East Jerusalem, approximately 57 right-wing Jewish activists tour Haram al-Sharif. Israeli forces arrest 5 Palestinians during late-night raids in Abu Dis and Issawiyya. (EI, HA, JP, MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, TOI, TOI, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 10/23; HA, HA, MNA, MNA, TOI, YA 10/24; PCHR 10/25)

Israeli defense minister Avigdor Lieberman lifts his hold on the transfers of Qatari-funded fuel into Gaza after a period of relative calm along Gaza’s border fence. “In accordance with [DM] Lieberman’s decision from [10/21] and in accordance with recommendations from security bodies, it has been decided that the supply of ‘Qatari fuel’ to Gaza will be renewed starting tomorrow,” his office announces. (TOI, TOI 10/24)

Along Gaza’s border, Israeli forces conduct a limited incursion to level land near Jabaliya refugee camp. In 2 separate incidents off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Bayt Lahiya, causing no reported damage or injuries. In the West Bank, Israeli settlers puncture the tires of several Palestinian vehicles and leave racist graffiti on nearby walls in Qaryut near Nablus overnight. They also throw stones at Palestinian homes near Nablus, sparking a minor confrontation between their IDF escort and the Palestinian residents; 4 Palestinian homes are reported with minor damage. IDF troops arrest 4 Palestinians and issue 2 arrest summons during late-night raids in and around Tulkarm, Nablus, and Hebron; and patrol near Nablus and Hebron. In East Jerusalem, approximately 82 right-wing Jewish activists tour Haram al-Sharif. (MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, TOI, WAFA 10/10; PCHR 10/11)

Qatar’s Foreign Ministry announces a $150 million donation to help “alleviate the humanitarian crisis in the besieged Gaza Strip.” Most of the money, $90 million, is reportedly slated to help pay the salaries of the Hamas-run government’s civil servants. The rest was previously reported and designated for fuel purchases for Gaza’s only power plant. The UN Development Program is set to help distribute the aid. The announcement comes a day after the first shipment of Qatari-funded diesel fuel for Gaza’s only power plant entered Gaza. (MNA, YA 10/11)

Dozens of Arab and Jewish Americans gather outside the PLO office in Washington to protest the Trump administration’s order to close the office by today (the office formally closed on 9/13, but employees were permitted to remain until today). They criticize the Trump administration’s treatment of the Palestinians and call for the office to be allowed to re-open. (TOI 10/10; AFP, TOI, WAFA 10/11)

After Israeli, Palestinian, and other Arab diplomats reach a compromise, UNESCO’s Executive Board passes 2 texts relating to Jerusalem and the Palestinian education system, respectively. The texts are critical of Israel, referring to “Israeli army violations against Palestinian universities and schools” and other aspects of the occupation, but the most critical language from previous drafts was removed. Rather than advancing the texts for a vote from the full body, the board shifts them into a non-binding annex, which is then approved by consensus. “I would like to commend the spirit of dialogue and the sense of responsibility that led to this result,” says UNESCO director general Audrey Azoulay. “A trend towards consensus is now emerging. It is based on the presence of all parties around the table at UNESCO and, of course, on their goodwill.” Israel and the U.S. are still set to withdraw from UNESCO on 12/31. (REU, YA 10/10; TOI 10/12)

An armed Palestinian opens fire on Israeli settlers at the Barkan Industrial Park near the Ariel settlement, killing 2 and seriously injuring a 3d. The assailant evades arrest and flees the scene. IDF troops then set up dozens of mobile checkpoints and conduct raids and searches in the area. Elsewhere in the West Bank, IDF troops arrest 18 Palestinians during raids near Hebron, Tulkarm, Ramallah, Bethlehem, and Nablus; and patrol near Hebron, Tulkarm, Qalqilya, and Salfit. Israeli settlers break the windows of 10 Palestinian vehicles at a showroom near Salfit. In East Jerusalem, more than 100 right-wing Jewish activists tour Haram al-Sharif. Along Gaza’s border, an Israeli aircraft conducts an air strike on a group of Palestinians near Rafah who were allegedly preparing to fly incendiary kites and balloons into southern Israel; there are no reported injuries. Meanwhile, Israeli firefighters put out 5 fires in border communities allegedly sparked by such kite and balloon attacks emanating from Gaza. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Rafah, causing no damage or injuries. (HA, JP, MNA, MNA, MNA, TOI, WAFA, YA 10/7; PCHR 10/11)

Approximately 1,500 right-wing Jewish activists visit Joseph’s Tomb near Nablus overnight, sparking clashes between their IDF escort and Palestinian residents of the area; 20 Palestinians are injured, including 2 journalists. Elsewhere in the West Bank, IDF troops raid a Palestinian boys school near Nablus, sparking minor clashes; there are no reported injuries. They also arrest 3 Palestinians during raids in Qalqilya; and patrol near Hebron and Tulkarm. Separately, PA security forces arrest dozens of Hamas affiliates during raids across the West Bank. The raids come one day after Hamas security forces summoned dozens of Fatah members for interrogation in Gaza. In East Jerusalem, approximately 1135 right-wing Jewish activists tour Haram al-Sharif to commemorate Sukkot, sparking minor confrontations between their Israeli security escort and Palestinian worshippers; there are no reported injuries or arrests. Israeli forces arrest 8 Palestinians during raids in Qalandia refugee camp, Biddu, and the Old City. Along Gaza’s border, Israeli forces conduct limited incursions to level land near Khan Yunis and Bayt Lahiya. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Jabaliya refugee camp, causing no damage or injuries. (MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, TOI, TOI, WAFA, WAFA 9/27; PCHR 10/4)

PA president Mahmoud Abbas addresses the UN General Assembly in New York City, calling on the Trump administration to reverse its recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, reinstate aid to UNRWA, and oppose Israel’s settlement enterprise. “It is ironic that the [Trump] administration still talks about what they call the ‘Deal of the Century,’” he says. “But what is left for this administration to give to the Palestinian people?" He also calls on Hamas to implement their 12/7/17 reconciliation agreement and give up control of Gaza to the PA. In response, Hamas releases a statement calling Abbas’s speech a “declaration of failure” on the stalled Palestinian reconciliation process. (HA, TOI, YA 9/27; DPA, HA, HA, JP, MNA, MNA, TOI, YA, YA 9/28)

Jordan’s Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi says that Germany, Sweden, the EU, Japan, and Turkey, as well as a number of other countries, collectively pledged $118 million to UNRWA at a meeting on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York City this week. Meanwhile, the Ad Hoc Liaison Committee, the main policy-level fundraising body for the Palestinians, meets in New York to discuss an proposed humanitarian aid package for Gaza. (HA, JP, MNA 9/28; TOI 9/29)

After meeting with Rwandan president Paul Kagame, Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu announces that Israel and Rwanda will soon open embassies in each other’s countries. Netanyahu also says Kagame wants to start a direct flight between Kigali and Tel Aviv. (TOI 9/29)

IDF troops violently disperse thousands of Palestinians gathering along Gaza’s border fence near Gaza City, Khan Yunis, and Jabaliya refugee camp to continue the Great March of Return; 3 Palestinians are injured. Meanwhile, Israeli firefighters put out 12 fires in southern Israel that were reportedly sparked by incendiary balloons and kites flown from Gaza. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Gaza City, causing no damage or injuries. In East Jerusalem, 420 right-wing Jewish activists tour Haram al-Sharif in the morning to commemorate Sukkot. Meanwhile, Israeli police detain 2 Islamic Waqf guards attempting to bring tools and other equipment into the sanctuary. They also assault and arrest 2 Palestinians in the Old City and arrest a 3d during a late-night raid in Abu Dis. In the West Bank, IDF troops order a number of Palestinian shops in central Hebron to close and set up mobile checkpoints in the area, easing access to al-Ibrahimi Mosque for right-wing Jewish activists commemorating Sukkot. They also arrest 7 Palestinians during late-night raids near Hebron, Qalqilya, and Tulkarm; and patrol in the Hebron area throughout the day. Meanwhile, Israeli settlers uproot at least 6 olive trees in a Palestinian grove near Hebron. (MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, TOI, WAFA, WAFA 9/25; PCHR 9/27)

A Hamas spokesperson denies that the Egyptian-mediated talks on a long-term cease-fire with Israel and a reconciliation agreement with Fatah have stalled. “The efforts of our Egyptian brothers continue,” he says. “We in Hamas are responsive to these ongoing efforts.” (AFP, TOI 9/25)

The World Bank reports that Gaza’s economy is in “free fall,” having contracted by 6% in the first quarter of 2018. World Bank officials are planning to present the report to the Ad Hoc Liaison Committee, the main policy-level fundraising body for the Palestinians, at its meeting in New York City on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly on 9/27. (HA, JP, YA 9/25)

Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on a number of Palestinian boats sailing in a symbolic challenge to the Israeli blockade. Meanwhile, IDF troops stationed along the border fence violently disperse hundreds of Palestinians gathering near Jabaliya refugee camp to cheer on the boats and to continue the Great March of Return; 1 Palestinian is killed and at least 90 are injured. The killing brings the death toll stemming from the Great March of Return to 159. Separately, Israeli firefighters put out 9 small fires in southern Israel that were reportedly sparked by incendiary balloons and kites flown from Gaza. In East Jerusalem, dozens of right-wing Jewish activists tour Haram al-Sharif to commemorate Sukkot. Meanwhile, Israeli forces arrest 4 Palestinians during raids in the Old City and al-Tur. In the West Bank, IDF troops patrol near Hebron, Tulkarm, and Qalqilya. (HA, JP, MNA, MNA, TOI, YA 9/24; MNA 9/25; PCHR 9/27)

Israeli aircraft conduct an air strike on Palestinians allegedly attempting to breach Gaza’s border fence near Rafah late at night, killing 2. The IDF reports that the Palestinians were placing a “suspicious object” near the fence. Earlier, IDF troops stationed along the border fence near Khan Yunis open fire on Palestinian farmers, causing no damage or injuries. Israeli forces also conduct a limited incursion to level land near Rafah. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on 15 Palestinian boats sailing from Gaza in a symbolic challenge to the Israeli blockade. Meanwhile, IDF troops violently disperse thousands of Palestinians gathering along the coast near Jabaliya refugee camp and Khan Yunis to cheer on the boats and continue the Great March or Return for a 4th day in a row; at least 30 Palestinians are injured. In the West Bank, hundreds of right-wing Jewish activists visit Joseph’s Tomb near Nablus overnight, sparking clashes between their IDF escort and Palestinian residents of the area; 8 Palestinians are injured. Elsewhere, IDF troops conduct raids in ‘Azun village near Qalqilya, sparking clashes with Palestinian students on their way to school; there are no reported injuries. One Palestinian is injured and another is arrested in similar clashes sparked by an IDF raid near Nablus. IDF troops also arrest 7 Palestinians during late-night raids near Qalqilya, Jenin, and Hebron; and patrol near Hebron and Qalqilya. Israeli forces deliver stop-work orders to a Palestinian building under construction in Kardala village near Tubas. In East Jerusalem, dozens of right-wing Jewish activists tour Haram al-Sharif. Israeli forces arrest 2 Palestinians and confiscate some property during late-night raids in Qalandia refugee camp (HA, MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, WAFA 9/17; MNA, MNA, TOI, WAFA, YA 9/18; PCHR 9/20)

UN Humanitarian Coordinator Jamie McGoldrick announces a $1 million transfer to prevent the “collapse of services and a potential outbreak of disease” in Gaza. “Unfortunately, it comes in the absence of action from the relevant authorities, who have responsibility for the well-being of Gaza's citizens, or predictable donor support.” McGoldrick says that $2 million more is still needed to pay for essential health, water, and sanitation services through the end of 2018. (WAFA 9/17)

In the West Bank, IDF troops arrest 9 Palestinians and confiscate 2 vehicles during late-night raids near Ramallah, Hebron, Jenin, Bethlehem, and Qalqilya; and patrol near Nablus, Jenin, and Hebron. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 1 Palestinian during a raid in Hizma. They also establish a new observation post in Silwan to oversee the opening of a new Jewish-Yemeni cultural center in the neighborhood later in the day. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Dayr al-Balah, causing no damage or injuries. (PCHR 8/2; PCHR 8/9)

Israel’s High Court of Justice holds a hearing on the fate of Khan al-Ahmar, the West Bank Bedouin village the Israeli government intends to evacuate and demolish. Two of the three judges reaffirm their view that the evacuation and demolition cannot be avoided. The entire panel calls on the lawyers on both sides to compromise on a new relocation plan because the villagers have rejected the government’s proposal, which would move them to a site near a garbage dump outside Abu Dis. (MNA, TOI 8/1)

Along Gaza’s border fence, IDF troops open fire on a group of Palestinians congregating near the Great March of Return tent camps outside Gaza City; 2 Palestinians are injured. Later, an incendiary balloon reportedly flown from Gaza lands on a street in Beersheba, causing no damage. Israeli firefighters put out 6 small fires allegedly sparked by similar devices closer to the border fence throughout the day. In two separate incidents off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Bayt Lahiya, causing no damage or injuries. In the West Bank, IDF troops arrest 12 Palestinians and issue 4 arrest summons during late-night raids in and around Qalqilya, Jenin, Ramallah, and Bethlehem; and patrol near Hebron and Nablus. Israeli settlers slash the tires of 8 Palestinian cars and leave racist graffiti on nearby walls in al-Mughayyir village near Ramallah. Separately, Israeli settlers assault and injure a Palestinian in central Hebron. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 7 Palestinians during raids in Silwan and Issawiyya. (MNA, WAFA, YA 7/30; MNA 7/31; PCHR 8/2)

Thousands of Jewish and Palestinian citizens of Israel attend a massive Arabic language lesson in the streets of Tel Aviv in protest of the new Nation-State Law, which the Knesset passed on 7/19 and which downgraded Arabic from an official language to one with “special status." (HA, JP 7/30)

After reports of incendiary kites and balloons being flown from Gaza into southern Israel in the morning, an Israeli drone bombs an alleged staging area for such attacks near Rafah in the afternoon, killing 1 Hamas fighter and injuring 3 other Palestinians. Unidentified Palestinians in Gaza then launch 2 mortar shells across the border fence into Israel; they land in an open area, causing no damage. Israeli tanks then shell a Hamas post in southern Gaza, causing moderate damage. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Bayt Lahiya and Jabaliya refugee camp, causing no damage or injuries. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces demolish 4 Palestinian homes in Bayt Hanina. Four Palestinian families demolish their own homes in Bayt Hanina to avoid paying Israeli demolition fees. In the West Bank, IDF troops issue 1 Palestinian arrest summons during a late-night raid near Hebron and patrol near Hebron. (MNA, WAFA, YA 7/19; PCHR 7/26)

Israel’s Knesset passes the Nation-State Bill into law, with 62 MKs in favor and 55 opposed, codifying Israel’s status as the nation-state of the Jewish people and asserting “the realization of the right to national self-determination in Israel is unique to the Jewish people.” (EI, HA, JP, MNA, TOI, WAFA, YA 7/19)

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)

In the West Bank, IDF troops arrest 5 Palestinians during late-night raids near Hebron and in Tulkarm; and patrol near Nablus, Hebron, and Qalqilya. Approximately 200 Israeli settlers visit a Jewish holy site near Hebron (the burial site of the prophets Gad and Nathan), sparking clashes between their IDF escort and stone-throwing Palestinian youths; there are no serious injuries. Israeli settlers also throw stones at Palestinian homes near Hebron, causing minor damage. 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 agricultural lands near Khan Yunis, Juhur al-Dik, and alBureij refugee camp, causing no serious damage. (MNA, WAFA 11/18; PCHR 11/23)

The Egyptian authorities open the Rafah border crossing for the first of 3 planned days, allowing passage in both directions. This opening is the first with the Gaza side of the crossing under PA control. (TOI, WAFA 11/18)

PA FM Riyad al-Maliki says that the Palestinians will not give in to U.S. “extortion,” following the 11/17 report of a U.S. threat to close the PLO diplomatic mission in Washington. (HA, TOI, WAFA 11/18)

An Israeli tank fires a warning shell at Syrian forces congregating near the Golan Heights, causing no damage or injuries. (HA, TOI 11/18)

Tensions remain high at Haram al-Sharif, as Palestinians hold a “day of rage” across the oPt. Muslim worshippers clash with Israeli forces after midday prayers at the Lion’s Gate to the Old City; 2 Palestinians are injured and arrested. Elsewhere, Palestinian, Israeli, and international protesters clash with Israeli forces at Qalandia checkpoint, Shu‘fat, Ramallah, and Bethlehem; at least 8 Palestinians are injured. Protests in Nablus and Tubas are without incident. Meanwhile, after a number of Jewish settlers perform religious rituals at Haram al-Sharif, the Israeli police temporarily suspended Jewish visitation rights to the sanctuary. (HA, JP, MNA, TOI, WAFA, YA 7/19; PCHR 7/20)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces confiscate water pumps and tanks from Bedouin villages in the n. Jordan Valley. IDF troops arrest 8 Palestinians during late-night raids nr. Hebron, Nablus, and Tulkarm; and patrol nr. Hebron during the day. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 10 Palestinians during raids in Silwan, al-Tur, Issawiyya, and Shu‘fat r.c. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats nr. Bayt Lahiya, causing no damage or injuries. (HA, MNA, TOI, WAFA 7/19; PCHR 7/20; PCHR 7/27)

After consulting with top security officials, Israeli PM Netanyahu says, “We want to solve this crisis in the quietest way possible and to bring back the calm.” Israel’s security agencies reportedly support removing the new metal detectors. Separately, a White House spokesperson says that the U.S. is “very concerned” about the situation and calls on “the State of Israel and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan to make a good faith effort to reduce tensions and to find a solution that assures public safety and the security of the site and maintains the status quo.” (TOI 7/19; SA, TOI 7/20)

Israel’s Knesset passes a preliminary reading of the “United Jerusalem Law,” which the Ministerial Comm. for Legislation approved on 7/16. (KNE, MNA, TOI 7/19; HA 7/20)

Israeli police shoot and kill an Israeli settler after he allegedly attempts to stab 1 of them on the East Jerusalem side of the Hizma checkpoint. They reportedly mistook the settler for a Palestinian. Israeli forces later find the settler’s suicide note, showing that he intentionally attacked them with the goal of being killed. Elsewhere in East Jerusalem, approx. 90 right-wing Jewish activists tour Haram al-Sharif in the morning, marking Israel’s Independence Day. Israeli forces arrest 13 Palestinians during late-night raids in Sur al-Bahir, Silwan, and al-Tur. In the West Bank, Israeli settlers destroy a Palestinian well in al-Khadir nr. Bethlehem. Israeli forces level Palestinian land nr. Salfit to clear the area for settlers from nearby Ariel. IDF troops establish a checkpoint nr. Nablus, sparking minor clashes with stone-throwing Palestinians; there are no serious injuries. They also arrest 3 Palestinians during a raid nr. Bethlehem and patrol nr. Qalqilya. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats nr. Bayt Lahiya on 2 separate occasions, causing no damage or injuries. Along Gaza’s border, Israeli forces open fire on Palestinian farmers and shepherds working nr. al-Bureij r.c., causing no injuries; and conduct a limited incursion to level land nr. Khan Yunis late at night. In Israel, thousands of Palestinians participate in the “March of Return” at the site of the depopulated al-Kabri village in the Galilee to highlight the rights of Palestinian refugees and commemorate the Nakba. (HA, WAFA 5/2; MNA 5/3; PCHR 5/4)

A former Palestinian prisoner dies of kidney failure at a hospital nr. Ramallah. He developed kidney issues as a result of medical negligence while he was in Israeli prison, according to the head of the PA’s prisoners’ affairs comm., Issa Qaraqe. (MNA, TOI, WAFA 5/2)

IDF troops conduct raids in Dayr Nizam village nr. Ramallah, sparking clashes with stone-throwing Palestinians; 1 Palestinian is injured. Elsewhere in the West Bank, they arrest 2 Palestinians during raids nr. Hebron; and patrol nr. Hebron and Nablus. Israeli settlers hang dozens of Israeli flags on the walls of al-Ibrahimi Mosque in c. Hebron in commemoration of Israel’s Independence Day, which starts in the evening. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 2 Palestinians during raids in al-Tur. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats nr. Dayr al-Balah and again nr. Bayt Lahiya, causing no damage or injuries. (MNA 5/1; MNA 5/2; PCHR 5/4)

Israeli forces disperse Palestinians gathering at Damascus Gate in Jerusalem for a protest in solidarity with the 1,500-plus hunger-striking Palestinian prisoners who have been observing the Dignity Strike since 4/17; 1 Palestinian is arrested. A number of Palestinian factions organize a solidarity sit-in in Ramallah as well. (MNA, TOI 5/1)

In Doha, Hamas unveils a new platform, titled “Document of General Principles and Policies,” including provisions accepting the notion of a Palestinian state with borders based on the pre-1967 armistice lines and calling for resistance to Israel, rather than a war against Jews. (HA, MEMO, MNA, NYT 5/1; EI, HA, WAFA 5/2)

IDF troops shoot and critically injure a Palestinian youth at the Huwwara checkpoint nr. Nablus after he allegedly attempts to stab 1 of them. Meanwhile, a Palestinian vehicle is found burned and vandalized outside nearby Huwwara village. It was presumably the target of an overnight price-tag attack. Elsewhere in the West Bank, IDF troops set up mobile checkpoints and fire stun grenades in Kifl Haris village nr. Salfit to clear the way for Israeli settlers to visit a Jewish holy site in the area. They also arrest a Palestinian at a checkpoint in c. Hebron when she is allegedly found to be carrying a knife, arrest 11 Palestinians during late-night raids in and around Nablus, Tubas, Hebron, Bethlehem, and Qalqilya; and patrol nr. Nablus and Hebron during the day. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces patrol in Shu‘fat r.c., sparking clashes with stone-throwing Palestinians; 3 Palestinians are injured. They also arrest 1 Palestinian during a late-night raid in Issawiyya. The Israeli authorities shut down an event entitled “Palestine under the Israeli Culture of Incitement,” because to the planned participation of some low-level PA officials. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats nr. Bayt Lahiya, causing no damage or injuries. Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops open fire on Palestinian farmers and shepherds working nr. Bayt Hanun, causing no injuries. In Gaza, 2 PIJ fighters are injured in an accident at a “resistance post,” according to the Gaza-based Health Ministry (1 critically). (HA, JP, MNA, TOI, WAFA 4/26; MNA, PCHR 4/27; PCHR 5/4)

Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops open fire on Palestinian agricultural lands nr. Khan Yunis, causing no major damage. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats nr. Khan Yunis, causing no injuries or damage. In the West Bank, IDF troops arrest 7 Palestinians and issue 1 arrest summons during late-night raids nr. Hebron, Tulkarm, and Ramallah; and patrol nr. Salfit and Hebron. In East Jerusalem, 53 rightwing Jewish activists tour Haram al-Sharif. (MNA, WAFA 3/26; PCHR 3/30)

Amid the ongoing investigation of the 3/24 killing of senior Hamas military cmdr. Fuqaha, the Hamas-run interior ministry in Gaza indefinitely shuts down the Erez border crossing, except for humanitarian cases; orders all fishermen to return to the shore; and shuts down the Rafah border crossing into Egypt. (Most of these restrictions will remain in place through 4/6.) The Kerem Shalom border crossing remains open. (HA, JP, MNA, TOI 3/26; MNA 4/6)

A spokesperson for the residents of the Amona settlement outpost warns that if the Israeli govt. does not build them a new settlement, as PM Netanyahu promised before Amona’s evacuation and demolition in 2/2017 (see JPS 46 [3]), they will “have to unilaterally move onto the [designated] land” and build it themselves. The spokesperson is likely responding to reports in the Israeli press about Israel-U.S. talks in Washington last week, and specifically an unconfirmed report that the U.S. may condone the Amona replacement in exchange for other limitations on settlement growth. (JP 3/26; JP 3/27)

In the West Bank, the IDF imposes heightened precautions at checkpoints in the Ramallah area, causing traffic jams across the region. It’s unclear why security is tightened. IDF troops also weld shut the door to a home and arrest 9 Palestinians during late-night raids nr. Nablus, Hebron, Ramallah, and in Qalqilya; and patrol nr. Hebron during the day. Israeli forces demolish a water pipeline nr. Tubas and a residential structure in Khan al-Ahmar village nr. Jerusalem. In East Jerusalem, 74 right-wing Jewish activists tour Haram al-Sharif in the morning. Israeli forces arrest 7 Palestinians during raids in Issawiyya and Shu‘fat refugee camp (r.c.). Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats nr. Bayt Lahiya and again nr. Rafah, causing no damage or injuries. (MNA, WAFA 2/20; PCHR 2/23)

Israel’s Knesset passes a new law requiring private businesses that choose not to sell products or services to Israel’s settlements in the West Bank or East Jerusalem to display signage indicating that on their premises. Businesses that fail to display proper signage will be fined. Member of the Knesset (MK) Shuli Moalem-Refaeli (Jewish Home), who proposed the legislation, says, “businesses that choose to discriminate against consumers who live in Judea and Samaria, in outlying areas or in Arab communities will be obligated to inform their customers in advance. If they fear being put on customers’ blacklists, they should them treat all equally.” (HA 2/20; MNA, TOI 2/21)

A Hamas fighter dies in a tunnel accident in Gaza in the morning. Later, the Palestinian Information Center reports that a 2d Palestinian, a civilian laborer, died in a tunnel today. Reportedly the worker died when Egyptian authorities flooded the tunnel. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats nr. Bayt Lahiya, causing no injuries or damage. In the West Bank, Israeli forces close entrances to a number of villages nr. Bethlehem with mounds of earth and cement blocks (they will reopen the villages on 2/20). The IDF also assaults a Palestinian s. of Hebron. He suffers memory loss, and cannot recall the details of the attack. IDF troops arrest 2 Palestinians during raids nr. Jericho and Hebron, and patrol nr. Hebron and Nablus. In East Jerusalem, around a dozen right-wing Jewish activists tour Haram al-Sharif. Their security escort arrests 2 Islamic Waqf employees. (MNA, WAFA 2/13; PCHR 2/16; MNA 2/20)

The Egyptian authorities open the Rafah border crossing for the 3d of 3 planned days. (MNA, WAFA 2/13)

A Hamas official confirms that Yahya Sinwar, a senior military official, has been chosen to lead the group in Gaza, replacing Ismail Haniyeh, who is angling to replace Khalid Mishal as the overall head of Hamas. (AJ, HA, NYT, TOI, YA 2/13)

An Israeli stabs and injures 2 Palestinian street cleaners in Beersheba in the morning. The police say the motive behind the attack was “criminal” and do not offer further details. In the West Bank, IDF troops deliver stop-work orders to 16 Palestinian buildings under construction in the n. Jordan Valley. They also arrest 7 Palestinians during arrest raids in and around Qalqilya and Hebron, and patrol nr. Nablus, Ramallah, and Hebron. In East Jerusalem, right-wing Jewish activists tour Haram al-Sharif in the morning. Israeli forces arrest 9 Palestinians during late-night raids in Jabal Mukabir, the Old City, and Issawiyya. A Palestinian family demolishes their own store in the Old City to avoid paying Israeli demolition fees. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats nr. Bayt Lahiya and later nr. Rafah, causing no injuries or damage. Along Gaza’s border, a fighter with the Democratic Front for the Liberation of Palestine (DFLP) is injured by shrapnel from an Israeli artillery shell, according to the DFLP. The IDF does not comment on the incident, and no further details are available. (MNA, WAFA 2/12; MNA 2/13; PCHR 2/16)

The Egyptian authorities open the Rafah border crossing for the 2d of 3 planned days. (MNA 2/12)

Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats nr. Bayt Lahiya and Khan Yunis, causing no injuries. Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops open fire on Palestinian farmers working nr. Rafah, causing no damage or injuries. In East Jerusalem, a number of right-wing Jewish activists tour Haram al-Sharif in the morning, sparking a nonviolent confrontation with Muslim worshippers. Israeli forces arrest 14 Palestinians and issue 1 arrest summons during raids in Jabal Mukabir, al-Tur, Ras alAmud, Shu‘fat r.c., and the Old City. In the West Bank, IDF troops conduct raids in Qarawat Bani Hassan village nr. Salfit in the evening, sparking clashes with stonethrowing Palestinian youths; there are no serious injuries. They arrest 11 Palestinians and issue 1 arrest summons during further raids nr. Ramallah, Hebron, and Nablus, and patrol nr. Ramallah, Hebron, and Qalqilya during the day. (JP, MNA, TOI, WAFA 2/5; JP, MNA 2/6; PCHR 2/9)

Israel’s High Court of Justice delays by 1 mo. the demolition of 9 buildings in the Ofra settlement nr. Ramallah. The demolition was set to go forward by 2/8, but the court relented, arguing that a demolition this mo. would put undue burden on the residents, and promising to evacuate them peacefully in exchange for the delay. Meanwhile, thousands of settlers gather in Ofra to protest the planned demolition. (TOI 2/5)

Hundreds of Israeli settlers visit a Jewish holy site nr. Nablus overnight. Their IDF escort conducts raids in nearby Awarta village, closing its entrances. Later, IDF troops violently disperse Palestinians, Israelis, and international activists at Friday demonstrations against Israel’s occupation, separation wall, and settlements in 3 villages nr. Ramallah (Bil‘in, Ni‘lin, and Nabi Salih), Kafr Qaddum nr. Qalqilya, and along Gaza’s border nr. al-Bureij r.c.; 1 Palestinian is injured. IDF troops also assault and arrest an elderly Palestinian and her grandson during a raid in c. Hebron, and establish a mobile checkpoint nr. Nablus, sparking minor clashes with stone-throwing Palestinians. 1 Palestinian is injured. The IDF patrols nr. Qalqilya, Hebron, and Ramallah. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces assault 2 Muslim worshippers as they are leaving Haram al-Sharif. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats nr. Bayt Lahiya and later nr. Jabaliya r.c. and Rafah, causing no damage or injuries. (MNA, WAFA 2/3; MNA 2/4; PCHR 2/9)

IDF troops shoot and kill a Palestinian driver after he allegedly rams his vehicle into a bus stop outside a settlement nr. Ramallah. The IDF later claims a knife was found on the driver. Elsewhere in the West Bank, Israeli forces exchange fire with a group of Palestinians nr. Ramallah; 1 Palestinian is injured. It’s unclear how the exchange started. They also demolish Palestinian sheds and an animal barn nr. Jericho. IDF troops patrol in ‘Askar r.c. nr. Nablus late at night, sparking minor clashes with stone-throwing Palestinians; 2 Palestinians are injured. They also arrest 6 Palestinians and confiscate 1 computer during late-night raids nr. Jenin, Ramallah, and in Nablus, and patrol nr. Ramallah and Hebron during the day. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces demolish 2 stores, fences, a parking area, and a garage in Silwan and Shu‘fat; and deliver demolition orders to 5 Palestinian homes in Biddu and Qatanna, sparking clashes with stone-throwing residents. There are no serious injuries. They arrest 1 Palestinian during further raids in the Old City. Meanwhile, around 100 right-wing Jewish activists tour Haram al-Sharif in the morning. Along Gaza’s border, Israeli forces conduct a limited incursion nr. Rafah to level land. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats nr. Bayt Lahiya, causing no injuries. (HA, MNA, TOI, WAFA 1/25; PCHR 1/26; PCHR 2/2)