The Palestine Chronology

Thousands of Palestinians gather along Gaza’s border to continue the Great March of Return. IDF troops violently disperse them near Rafah, Khan Yunis, al-Bureij refugee camp, Gaza City, and Jabaliya refugee camp; at least 20 Palestinians are injured. One Israeli soldier is injured when a Palestinian protester throws an explosive across the border fence. In the West Bank, Israeli forces return to Urif near Nablus after clashes in the area on 2/14. They raze a swath of Palestinian-owned farmland outside the village and construct barriers on a road leading from the village to the newly razed farmland. Later, IDF troops violently disperse hundreds of Palestinians gathering in Urif to protest the Israeli incursions and remove the new barriers; 2 Palestinians are injured. IDF troops also violently disperse Palestinians, Israelis, and international activists at Friday protests against the Israeli occupation in Bil‘in near Ramallah (there are no serious injuries); arrest 2 Palestinians during a late-night raid near Hebron; and patrol near Jenin, Hebron, and Tulkarm. (HA, MNA, TOI, TOI, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 2/15; MNA, MNA 2/16; PCHR 2/21)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers puncture the tires of several Palestinian vehicles and leave racist graffiti on nearby walls in Iskaka village near Salfit. Approximately 30 armed settlers enter Urif village near Nablus in the evening. They damage equipment at an infrastructure construction site and spark clashes between their IDF escort and Palestinians in the area; 3 Palestinians are injured. IDF troops also violently disperse Palestinian schoolchildren throwing stones in Hebron; and patrol near Qalqilya, Tulkarm, and Hebron. In East Jerusalem, several senior Islamic Waqf officials enter Haram al-Sharif via al-Rahma Gate and pray at the sanctuary. Israeli forces demolish a Palestinian home in al-Walaja. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Gaza City and al-Bureij refugee camp, causing no damage or injuries. Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops open fire on Palestinian homes, farmers, and shepherds near Rafah, Khan Yunis, and Dayr al-Balah, causing no damage or injuries. In the evening, IDF troops violently disperse Palestinians gathering to continue the Great March of Return near Rafah; 6 Palestinians are injured. (MNA, MNA, WAFA 2/14; MNA, MNA 2/15; PCHR 2/21)

On the 2d day of a Middle East security conference in Warsaw, U.S. president Donald Trump’s son-in-law and senior advisor Jared Kushner says that the Trump administration’s long-awaited plan for Palestinian-Israeli peace will require compromises of both sides. “We hear Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and Israel and we understand that there is a chance,” he adds. “They do a better job than me to explain why there is a reason to be optimistic.” Kushner also says that the Trump administration’s plan is not based on the Arab Peace Initiative. “I think it was a great initiative, in 2002 when it was done, but it hasn’t produced peace.” After meeting with Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu, U.S. secretary of state Mike Pompeo says that “stability in the Middle East” won’t be achieved “without confronting Iran.” Netanyahu’s office later leaks a video recorded during a closed session in Warsaw on 2/13 depicting several Arab foreign ministers downplaying the Palestinian-Israeli conflict in relation to Iran in terms of issues threatening the security of the Middle East. Bahrain’s Foreign Minister Khalid bin Ahmed Al Khalifa is depicted saying that “toxic” money from Iran has obstructed past efforts to resolve the Palestinian-Israeli conflict. (AP, EI, HA, HA, HA, JP, JP, JP, JP, TOI, TOI, YA, YA 2/14)

Israeli forces arrest a Lebanese minor after he crosses the Israel-Lebanon border armed with a knife. (HA, MNA 2/14)

Dozens of Palestinians gather along Gaza’s border near Jabaliya refugee camp to continue the Great March of Return and to launch fireworks at IDF troops on the other side of the border fence, causing no damage or injuries. Amid the demonstrations, unidentified Palestinians attempt to fire a mortar into southern Israel. It lands short of the border fence, causing no damage or injuries. Also along Gaza’s border, IDF troops open fire on Palestinian shepherds working near Gaza City, causing no damage or injuries. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces arrest a Palestinian attempting to swim from Gaza to Israel. They also open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Bayt Lahiya, causing no damage or injuries. In the West Bank, Israeli settlers break into a Palestinian high school in Urif village near Nablus, sparking minor clashes; several Palestinian minors are lightly injured. Separately, settlers smash the windshields of a number of Palestinian vehicles in Huwwara village near Nablus; assault a Palestinian journalist and a Palestinian activist in central Hebron (no serious injuries are reported). IDF troops arrest 17 Palestinians during late-night raids near Hebron, Bethlehem, Nablus, and Ramallah; and patrol near Tulkarm and Hebron. (HA, MNA, TOI, TOI, WAFA, YA 2/10; JP, MNA, MNA 2/11; PCHR 2/14)

PA minister for civilian affairs Hussein al-Sheikh says that the Trump administration has asked U.S. and international banks to stop working with the PA in an effort to pressure the Palestinian leadership into accepting their long-awaited Palestinian-Israeli peace plan. “Major international financial institutions and parties have begun to accede to an American request to impose a tight financial siege on the [PA],” he says. “The sanctions began with preventing the transfer of an Iraqi grant worth $10 million, which was handed over to the Arab League recently. The League has not been able to transfer it because all banks have refused to accept it for transfer to the [PA’s] finance ministry or the national fund.” (AFP, TOI 2/11)

Haaretz reports that Israeli government officials have informed the Jerusalem District Court of their intention to invoke a legal justification approved by Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit in 12/2018 to retroactively authorize several settlement housing units build on Palestinian land near the Ariel settlement. Mandelblit’s justification allowed for such retroactive authorizations if the initial allocation of Palestinian land was done in “good faith.” (HA 2/10)

U.S. representative Ilhan Omar (D-MN), one of the first members of the U.S. Congress to openly support the BDS movement, sends a tweet in response to a story about Israeli influence in U.S. politics: “It’s all about the Benjamins baby.” Her tweet draws criticism and allegations of anti-Semitism from many Democrats and Republicans. (NYT, WP 2/11)

Approximately 10,000 Palestinians gather along Gaza’s border to continue the Great March of Return. IDF troops violently disperse the demonstrations near Gaza City, Rafah, Khan Yunis, al-Bureij refugee camp, and Jabaliya refugee camp; at least 15 Palestinians are injured. Also along Gaza’s border, Israeli forces conduct a limited incursion to level land near Rafah. Five unidentified assailants raid the Gaza City office of the PA-run Palestinian Broadcasting Corporation and destroy much of the technical equipment on site. The assailants flee before the police arrive on the scene. Later, a PA official says, “We hold the Hamas authorities fully responsible for this crime.” In the West Bank, IDF troops arrest 3 Palestinians during a raid near Ramallah; and patrol near Nablus, Jenin, Hebron, Salfit, and Qalqilya. They also violently disperse Palestinians, Israelis, and international activists at Friday protests against the Israeli occupation in al-Mughayyir near Ramallah; 2 Palestinians are injured. Israeli settlers throw stones at a Palestinian school in Urif village near Nablus, sparking minor clashes between their IDF escort and Palestinians in the area; 1 Palestinians is injured and another is arrested (AFP, MNA, TOI, TOI, WAFA 1/4; MNA 1/5; PCHR 1/10)

Following a complaint from Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the IDF formally censures Colonel Avi Bluth for failing to pass along the Netanyahu’s order to postpone the evacuation and dismantlement of 2 makeshift residential structures at the site of the former illegal settlement outpost Amona on 1/3. In the context of a disciplinary hearing, IDF Chief of Staff Eisenkot reportedly “made it clear to Colonel Bluth that he had erred in handling the incident and that it would have been expected that he would have conducted himself more professionally.” (HA, JP, TOI, YA 1/4)

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)

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)

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

Along Gaza’s northern border, IDF troops shoot and kill a Palestinian fisherman working from the shore near Bayt Lahiya. The incident comes hours after the Israeli authorities informed their Palestinian counterparts in Gaza that fishermen were allowed to return to the sea today. As ordered by Israeli defense minister Lieberman on 10/31, the fishing zone is limited to 6 nautical miles from Gaza’s northern shore and 9 nautical miles from its southern shore. (EI, MNA, MNA, TOI, WAFA 11/14; PCHR 11/15)

Also along Gaza’s border, IDF troops shoot, injure, and arrest a Palestinian approaching the border fence near Jabaliya refugee camp The IDF claims he was throwing grenades at Israeli posts. Dozens of right-wing Israeli activists stand in the road leading to the Kerem Shalom border crossing for several hours, blocking the entry of goods and fuel into Gaza in protest of the recent rocket fire. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces shoot and injure a Palestinian outside a police station in Jabal Mukabir after he allegedly stabs and lightly injures 4 Israeli police officers (the Palestinian will succumb to his injuries on 11/20). The Israeli police deploy in force in the neighborhood after the incident, conducting arrest raids and blocking off several roads. In the West Bank, Israeli settlers torch a Palestinian-owned vehicle and spray racist graffiti on nearby walls in Urif village near Nablus. IDF troops arrest 3 Palestinians during raids in Tubas and near Hebron; shoot and injure a Palestinian during clashes sparked by further raids near Nablus; and patrol near Hebron and Salfit. (HA, HA, MNA, TOI, TOI, TOI, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 11/14; HA, MNA, PCHR 11/15; PCHR 11/22)

In response to the Israeli security cabinet’s 11/13 decision to agree to a cease-fire with the armed Palestinian groups in Gaza, Israeli defense minister Avigdor Lieberman announces his resignation and calls for snap elections. Lieberman takes specific issue with both the cease-fire and the decision to allow Qatari money into Gaza to pay the civil servants of the Hamas-run government. “There is no other definition, no other significance, but a capitulation to terror,” he says. “What we are doing now as a country is buying short-term quiet at the cost of our long-term security.” Without Lieberman’s Yisrael Beytenu in the ruling coalition, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s bloc still holds a majority of the seats in the Knesset (61–59). (BBC, HA, HA, IHY, TOI, TOI, TOI, YA 11/14; HA 11/15)

Israel Television News Company publishes a poll showing that 74% of the Israeli public is dissatisfied with Israeli prime minister Netanyahu’s handling of the recent conflict with Hamas. The poll was reportedly taken in the hours after Defense Minister Lieberman resigned earlier today. The results also show that Netanyahu’s Likud party would only win 29 seats in the Knesset if elections were held today, marking the weakest Likud has polled since 3/2018. Meanwhile, dozens of right-wing Israelis gather in Sderot for a 2d day in a row to protest Netanyahu’s handling of the recent escalation of violence. (HA, JP, TOI 11/14)

The Israeli bombardment of Gaza continues for a 3d day in a row, with air strikes and artillery fire reported across the region. Two Palestinians are killed by Israeli drone strikes near Gaza City and Bayt Lahiya, at least 20 more are injured in other strikes throughout the day, and at least 1 residential building in Gaza City is destroyed. The Israeli authorities also shut down the Erez border crossing and bar Palestinian fishermen from the sea. With the violence ongoing in Gaza, Egyptian, UN, and Norwegian mediators work to de-escalate the situation. In the early afternoon, the main Palestinian factions in Gaza reportedly agree to a cease-fire brokered by those international mediators. It’s unclear if Israel is party to the agreement or what the terms are. Shortly after the first reports of a cease-fire, Israel’s security cabinet concludes a 7-hour meeting about the situation in Gaza and decides to resume the air strikes in Gaza “as necessary.”

The Israeli Air Force then strikes several sites across Gaza, killing 1 Palestinian near Jabaliya refugee camp and injuring 3 near Khan Yunis. Hours later, the security cabinet reportedly agrees to a cease-fire along the lines of the agreement that ended Israel’s assault on Gaza in the summer of 2014, and an uneasy calm returns to Gaza in the evening. “The situation remains very precarious and can blow up again,” says a foreign source involved in the talks. “Israel reserves its freedom to operate,” says a senior Israeli official who also confirms that the cabinet agreed to the cease-fire. The Palestinian factions, including Hamas, later release a joint statement indicating their commitment to the cease-fire “as long as Israel doesn’t break it.” Meanwhile, hundreds of right-wing Israelis gather in Sderot to protest the cease-fire. They chant, “Bibi go home,” and clash with the police.  (EI, JP, MNA, MNA, MNA, NYT, HA, HA, HA, JP, TOI, TOI, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, YA, YA 11/13; PCHR 11/15)

A Palestinian succumbs to injuries sustained in an Israeli air strike in Rafah on 11/13, bringing the Palestinian death toll from this latest Israeli assault to 14. (WAFA 11/13)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers throw stones at Palestinian-owned vehicles driving between Jenin and Nablus, causing minor damage to several. A separate group of settlers torches a Palestinian vehicle late at night outside Urif village near Nablus. IDF troops arrest 1 Palestinian during raids near Hebron and Tulkarm; and patrol in and around Tulkarm, Qalqilya, and Salfit. (WAFA 11/13; PCHR 11/15)

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; 20 Palestinians are lightly injured and 1 is arrested. Elsewhere in the West Bank, IDF troops injure 4 Palestinians during clashes sparked by an arrest raid in ‘Askar refugee camp near Nablus; arrest 6 Palestinians during additional raids near Hebron, Bethlehem, Tulkarm, and Jenin; and patrol near Nablus and Tulkarm. Israeli forces demolish the outer wall of a Palestinian cemetery and the foundation of a planned multi-purpose center near Jenin. Israeli settlers enter the grounds of Palestinian high school in Urif village near Nablus, throwing rocks and sparking minor confrontations with the students; there are no reported injuries or arrests. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces demolish a 4-story Palestinian residential building in Shu‘fat refugee camp They also demolish a memorial to a Palestinian killed by Israeli forces on 7/21/17 in Abu Dis, sparking clashes with residents of the neighborhood; there are no injuries reported. Along Gaza’s border, Israeli forces conduct a limited incursion to level land near Khan Yunis. (MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, TOI, TOI, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 11/7; HA, PCHR  11/8; PCHR 11/15)

A Palestinian succumbs to injuries sustained when Israeli soldiers opened fire on Palestinian protesters along Gaza’s border on 10/26. This brings the death toll stemming from the Great March of Return to 187. (PCHR 11/8)

Off Gaza’s southern coast, Egyptian naval forces shoot and kill a Palestinian fisherman. It’s unclear why they opened fire. (WAFA 11/7; MNA, TOI 11/8)

The organizing committee behind the Great March of Return announces that the protests will resume on 11/9 as planned, but that the demonstrations will be quieter and protesters again will stay away from the border fence, as they largely did during the protests on 11/2. Meanwhile, The Hamas-run Finance Ministry in Gaza pays partial salaries to civil servants across the region. The payment is reportedly made in connection with developments in the ongoing Egyptian effort to broker a de-escalation of violence. (HA 11/8)

After meeting with PA foreign minister Riyad al-Maliki in Brussels, Belgian foreign minister Didier Reynders tweets that Belgium is upgrading the status of the Palestinian mission in Brussels, a significant step toward recognition of the State of Palestine. The specific nature of the upgrade is unclear. Reynders and al-Maliki also sign a joint declaration affirming their intention to further develop bilateral relations in a variety of ways. (WAFA 11/7; JP, MEMO, MNA 11/8)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces demolish a 4-story building in al-Bireh near Ramallah; an agricultural structure in Khirbet al-Marajim near Nablus; and a makeshift residential structure, 3 tents, and 3 agricultural structures in Bardala near Jericho. IDF troops patrol near Hebron, Tulkarm, and Qalqilya. Approximately 50 Israeli settlers throw stones at a Palestinian school in Urif village near Nablus, sparking clashes between their IDF escort and Palestinian students and residents of the area; 1 Palestinian is injured. (MNA, MNA, MNA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 10/18; PCHR 10/25)

The IDF reinforces its troops stationed along Gaza’s border with additional tanks, artillery and engineering forces ahead of the planned protests on the other side of the border fence on 10/19. Meanwhile, Hamas announces plans to investigate the rocket fire on 10/17, likely in an effort to reduce tensions ahead of the planned protests on 10/19. (HA, TOI, YA 10/18)

Al-Hayat reports that Hamas and the other factions in Gaza recently agreed to scale back the Great March of Return protests along Gaza’s border fence to help facilitate the Egyptian effort to mediate a long-term Hamas-Israel cease-fire. The deal was reportedly reached on 10/15, before rocket fire and air strikes heightened tensions on 10/17. Meanwhile, a delegation of senior Egyptian officials shuttle between Gaza and Israel throughout the day, negotiating with both Hamas and Israeli officials on a long-term cease-fire and the stalled Palestinian reconciliation process. (AH, AP, TOI, TOI, YA 10/18)

U.S. secretary of state Mike Pompeo announces that the U.S. consulate general in Jerusalem, which serves Palestinians, is to be merged with the new U.S. embassy in Jerusalem. “This decision is driven by our global efforts to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of our operations,” he says. “We will continue to conduct a full range of reporting, outreach, and programming in the West Bank and Gaza as well as with Palestinians in Jerusalem through a new Palestinian Affairs Unit inside the U.S. Embassy Jerusalem.” (JP, MNA, MNA, REU, TOI, WAFA, YA 10/19)

Israel’s High Court of Justice rules in favor of Lara Alqasem, the U.S. student who the Israeli authorities denied entry into Israel on 10/2 and have detained ever since over her support for BDS. “Since the appellant’s actions do not raise satisfactory cause to bar her to entry to Israel, the inevitable impression is that invalidating the visa given to her was due to the political opinions she holds,” the court’s ruling reads. “If this is truly the case, then we are talking about an extreme and dangerous step, which could lead to the crumbling of the pillars upon which democracy in Israel stands.” (EI, HA, MNA, TOI 10/19)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers puncture the tires of a number of Palestinian vehicles in Urif near Nablus. Separately, settlers assault and injure 2 Palestinians driving outside Nablus. IDF troops patrol near Hebron and Nablus. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Dayr al-Balah, causing no damage or injuries. (MNA, MNA, WAFA 8/23; PCHR 8/30)

Israel’s Housing Ministry approves tenders for the construction of 425 housing units in settlements in the West Bank. Separately, the Israeli authorities deposit for public review plans for 608 new housing units in Israeli settlements in East Jerusalem. (TOI 8/24)

An Israeli settler is killed in a car accident involving a Palestinian driver near Nablus. The Palestinian flees the scene, but later turns himself in to the authorities. Israeli settlers retaliate for what they interpret as an attack by throwing rocks and bottles at Palestinian vehicles near Nablus (40 cars are damaged), torching an excavator being used for a Palestinian construction project in nearby Urif village, and attempting to set fire to a Palestinian home in nearby Jalud village. Late at night, settlers destroy 200 olive trees in a Palestinian grove near Nablus. Also in the West Bank, IDF troops arrest 4 Palestinians during raids in Qalqilya and near Bethlehem; and patrol near Qalqilya, Jenin, and Hebron. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Bayt Lahiya, causing no damage or injuries (4 fishermen are detained and 2 boats are confiscated). In southern Israel, Israeli forces demolish the Bedouin village al-Araqib for the 132d time since 2010. (MNA, MNA, TOI, WAFA 8/16; JP, WAFA, WAFA 8/17; PCHR 8/30)

UNRWA Commissioner General Pierre Krähenbühl announces that despite a massive budget shortfall the agency will be able to open its schools in the occupied Palestinian territories, Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria on time on 8/29. “I wish to be clear that UNRWA is by no stretch of the imagination out of the woods,” he adds. “We need a further $217 million to ensure that our schools not only open but can be run until the end of the year.” (JP, MNA, WAFA 8/16)

Thousands of Palestinians gather along Gaza’s border fence to continue the Great March of Return. IDF troops violently disperse them near Gaza City, al-Bureij refugee camp, Jabaliya refugee camp, Rafah, and Khan Yunis; 1 Palestinian is killed and more than 200 are injured. Today’s killing brings the death toll stemming from the Great March of Return to 131. Amid the protests, armed Gazans throw a small explosive at IDF troops on the other side of the border fence near Jabaliya refugee camp; 1 IDF officer is lightly injured. The IDF retaliates, bombing 2 Hamas tunnels and a training site. Hours after the Israeli attack, armed groups in Gaza launch approximately 31 rockets and other projectiles into Israel. The Iron Dome missile defense system intercepts 6, and the rest land in open areas, causing no major damage. In the West Bank, IDF troops arrest 1 Palestinian during late-night raids near Qalqilya, and patrol near Tulkarm, Salfit, and Nablus. They also violently disperse Friday protests against the Israeli occupation in Kafr Qaddum near Qalqilya; 1 journalist is injured. Israeli settlers set fire to 2 Palestinian vehicles outside ‘Urif village near Nablus, causing major damage, and leave racist graffiti on walls nearby. (EI, WAFA 7/13; HA, MNA 7/14; PCHR 7/19)

The EU calls on the Israeli authorities to reopen the Kerem Shalom border crossing and expand the fishing zone off Gaza’s coast, warning that the recent restrictions risk “aggravating the already dire economic situation in Gaza.” (TOI, WAFA 7/13)

An Israeli aircraft bombs a site near Rafah where a group of Palestinians are reportedly preparing incendiary kites and balloons to fly into southern Israel; there are no reported injuries. The strike comes after an incendiary device sparks a small fire in an open area on the Israeli side of the border fence. Later, Israeli drones bomb similar sites near Bayt Hanun and Jabaliya refugee camp, causing no major damage or injuries. IDF troops stationed along the border fence open fire on Palestinian farmland near Dayr al-Balah. In the West Bank, Israeli forces destroy 400 meters of water pipelines outside Bardala village in the north Jordan Valley. They also arrest 1 Palestinian during a late-night raid near Hebron, and patrol near Tulkarm, Hebron, and Nablus. Israeli settlers set fire to 2 Palestinian vehicles in ‘Urif village near Nablus late at night. They also leave racist graffiti in the area. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 1 Palestinian during a raid in Shaykh Jarrah. (HA, MNA, TOI, WAFA 7/12; MNA 7/13; PCHR 7/19)

Israel’s High Court of Justice postpones the planned evacuation and demolition of Khan al-Ahmar, a Bedouin village near Jerusalem, until 8/15, rejecting the Israeli government’s response to a petition from the village’s legal team. (JP, TOI, WAFA 7/12)

Hundreds of Palestinians gather along Gaza’s border fence to continue the Great March of Return. IDF troops violently disperse them near Khan Yunis, Rafah, al-Bureij refugee camp, Jabaliya refugee camp, and Gaza City. One Palestinian is killed and at least 141 are injured, bringing the death toll stemming from the Great March of Return to 130. On the other side of the border fence, approximately 4,000 Israelis gather to call for the return of the remains of the 2 IDF soldiers and Israeli civilians allegedly being held in Gaza. In the West Bank, Israeli settlers set fire to dozens of olive and almond trees outside ‘Urif village near Nablus while their IDF escort performs raids in Palestinian homes on the outskirts of the village, sparking clashes with residents; 1 Palestinian is injured. Settlers also start fires in 3 locations outside nearby Burin village, causing moderate damage. The settlers later accuse Palestinians of starting the fires. IDF troops patrol near Salfit and Hebron throughout the day. In East Jerusalem, Islamic Waqf staff perform repair work on an area of Haram al-Sharif that Israeli police reportedly damaged recently. (MNA, TOI, WAFA, YA 7/6; MNA, WAFA 7/7; PCHR 7/12)

After Israel’s High Court of Justice froze the demolition orders for Khan al-Ahmar, a Bedouin village near Jerusalem, on 7/5, hundreds of Palestinians perform Friday prayers in the village in solidarity with the residents. (WAFA 7/6)

Along Gaza’s border fence, Israeli forces shell a group of Palestinian minors in Gaza congregating at a Great March of Return protest camp near Rafah, injuring 2 (1 fatally). His death later in the day brings the death toll stemming from the Great March of Return to 126. Meanwhile, unidentified Palestinians fly a number of incendiary kites and balloons into Israel, sparking at least 17 fires along the border fence. Later, an Israeli drone bombs a site in Gaza City, causing damage. In the West Bank, Israeli settlers spray-paint racist graffiti and puncture the tires of a number of Palestinian vehicles in ‘Urif village near Nablus. IDF troops arrest 1 Palestinian during a late-night raid in Hebron. (EI, HA, MNA, TOI, WAFA, YA 6/28; MNA 6/29; PCHR 7/5)

Thousands of Palestinians gather along Gaza’s border to continue the Great March of Return for the 5th consecutive Friday. This week’s protests, dubbed the “Friday of Rebellious Youth,” are dedicated to the 37 Palestinians killed since the March began on 3/30. IDF troops violently disperse the demonstrations in multiple locations; 3 Palestinians are killed and at least 150 are injured. After hours of Israeli sniper fire, the IDF considerably escalates its crackdown on the protests with artillery shelling and air strikes on 6 Hamas sites across Gaza, causing damage and injuring 4 Palestinians. An IDF spokesperson later says the strikes were a response to the “terrorist actions and extensive attempts to breach Israeli territory earlier today.” In the West Bank, IDF troops violently disperse Friday protests against Israel’s occupation, settlements, and separation wall in Hebron, Kafr Qaddum near Qalqilya, and Ramallah; 2 Palestinians are injured. They also arrest 1 Palestinian during a raid near Bethlehem and patrol near Hebron and Qalqilya. Israeli settlers slash the tires of a number of Palestinian vehicles near Nablus overnight, and chop down 12 olive trees in a Palestinian grove outside ‘Urif near Nablus. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces clash with stonethrowing Palestinians in al-‘Izzariya; 1 Palestinian is arrested and 1 is wounded. A Palestinian demolishes his own car park in Silwan to avoid paying Israeli demolition fees. (EI, HA, JP, MNA, TOI, WAFA 4/27; YA 4/28; PCHR 5/3)

In the West Bank, dozens of Israeli settlers approach a water tank outside ‘Urif village near Nablus, sparking clashes between their IDF escort and Palestinian residents; 1 Palestinian is killed and another is seriously injured. Later, approximately 30 Israeli settlers throw stones at Palestinian homes and attempt to set fire to a mosque in al-Twana village near Hebron. Residents of the village challenge the settlers and their IDF escort, leading to a nonviolent confrontation. Israeli settlers also cut down approximately 30 olive trees near Nablus. Israeli forces order a Palestinian farmer to leave his land near Bethlehem, alleging that he lacks permission from the guards at nearby Efrat settlement. IDF troops conduct raids in ‘Azun village near Qalqilya, sparking minor clashes; there are no serious injuries. They also patrol near Qalqilya and Hebron. In East Jerusalem, Israeli settlers assault a number of Palestinian children in Silwan, sparking minor clashes between Israeli border guards and residents of the area; there are no serious injuries. In 3 separate incidents off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Bayt Lahiya and Jabaliya refugee camp, causing no damage or injuries. Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops open fire on Palestinian lands near al-Bureij refugee camp. (HA, JP, MNA, TOI, WAFA 3/10; PCHR 3/15)

A spokesperson for the Hamas-run Health Ministry in Gaza announces that a PIJ fighter died in an “accidental explosion” this morning. Two other Palestinians were reportedly injured in the accident. (TOI 3/10; JP 3/11)

Off Gaza’s coast, Egyptian naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Rafah, killing 1 Palestinian fisherman. Nearby, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Jabaliya refugee camp, causing no damage or injuries. Meanwhile, Israeli forces violently disperse Palestinians protesting U.S. pres. Trump’s 12/6 recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital in central Jerusalem, Nabi Salih village near Ramallah, outside Jayyus village near Qalqilya, and along Gaza’s border near Gaza City; 8 Palestinians are injured and 2 are arrested. Hours later, the IDF declares Nabi Salih a closed military zone. The village is home to the Tamimi family of activists, whose resistance to the IDF has garnered international headlines in recent weeks. IDF troops also arrest 12 Palestinians and issue 1 arrest summons during late-night raids in and around Tulkarm, Bethlehem, Nablus, Jenin, and Hebron; and patrol near Tulkarm and Hebron. Israeli settlers destroy approximately 80 Palestinian-owned olive trees in a grove near Nablus and torch a Palestinian tractor in nearby ‘Urif village. (HA, MNA, TOI 1/13; TOI 1/14; PCHR 1/18)

Late at night, the IAF bombs and completely destroys a Palestinian tunnel south of Rafah in the Gaza Strip. There are no reported injuries. The IDF later rejects Palestinian claims that the tunnel was used for smuggling goods from Egypt, and alleges that it extended from Egyptian territory all the way to the area of the Kerem Shalom border crossing. The Israeli authorities also announce the indefinite closure of the Kerem Shalom crossing, starting on 1/14. (TOI 1/13; HA, TOI 1/14)

Iran’s Foreign Ministry says that Iran “will accept no changes” to the 7/14/2015 nuclear deal, responding to U.S. pres. Trump’s 1/12 call for a “follow on” agreement to address a number of provisions he finds problematic. (FARS, TOI 1/13)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers assault and injure 3 Palestinians outside Urif near Nablus, sparking clashes between IDF troops in the area and stone-throwing residents of the village; there are no more serious injuries. IDF troops arrest a Palestinian youth, allegedly for carrying a knife in his sock, during a security check at the entrance to al-Ibrahimi Mosque in central Hebron. They arrest 6 more Palestinians during late-night raids near Jenin and Bethlehem, and patrol near Hebron and in Ramallah. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 3 Palestinians during raids in al-Suwana and Hizma. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Bayt Lahiya, lightly injuring 1 fisherman. (TOI, WAFA 11/8; MNA, PCHR 11/9; PCHR 11/16)

Chief of the Palestinian Civil Police Hazim Attallah announces that the PA resumed security coordination with Israel 2 weeks ago, approximately 3 months after Pres. Abbas suspended it on 7/21 in response to new Israeli security measures at Haram al-Sharif (see JPS 47 [1]). (REU, TOI 11/8)

Israeli settlers throw stones at Palestinians and their homes on the outskirts of ‘Urif village nr. Nablus, injuring 1 homeowner and sparking minor clashes; there are no serious injuries. IDF troops patrol in Bayt Umar village nr. Hebron, sparking clashes with stone-throwing youths; there are no serious injuries. They also violently disperse Palestinians protesting the Israeli occupation in Kafr Qaddum nr. Qalqilya (2 protesters are injured); arrest 13 Palestinians during latenight raids nr. Tulkarm, Nablus, Hebron, and Bethlehem; and patrol nr. Qalqilya, Nablus, and Hebron during the day. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 15 Palestinians during late-night raids in Issawiyya. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats nr. Gaza City, causing no damage or injuries. (MNA, WAFA 4/29)

The Israeli authorities shut down border crossings to and from the West Bank and Gaza Strip this evening, with an exception for humanitarian cases. They plan to keep the crossings closed until 5/2, Israel’s Independence Day. (MNA, TOI 4/29; HA, JP 4/30; PCHR 5/4)

Approximately 100 Palestinian prisoners join the Dignity Strike that 1,500 of their fellow hunger-striking prisoners declared on 4/17 (the IPS says that there are only around 1,200 participating). Meanwhile, Israeli forces forcibly disperse Palestinians holding a sit-in in c. Bethlehem in solidarity with the prisoners. The Palestinian Journalists Syndicate later says that 13 journalists were injured covering the sit-in. (MNA, 4/29; MNA 4/30)

Approximately 100 Israeli settlers smash windows and attempt to break into a home in ‘Urif village nr. Nablus before Palestinian residents of the village force them away. IDF troops then violently disperse the residents of ‘Urif; 4 Palestinians and 1 IDF soldier are injured. Israeli settlers also throw stones at Palestinian homes and vehicles in nearby Huwwara, lightly injuring 1 Palestinian and causing no serious damage. Meanwhile, the IDF arrests 11 Palestinians and issues 4 arrest summons during raids in and around Bethlehem and Tulkarm; and patrols nr. Hebron, Qalqilya, and Nablus during the day. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces shoot and injure 1 Palestinian during a violent raid in al-Issawiyya late at night. (HA, MNA, TOI, WAFA 4/22; JP, MNA, TOI 4/23; PCHR 4/27)

A group of Fatah-affiliated prisoners in Israel’s Ramon Prison join the Dignity Strike that approx. 1,500 prisoners declared on 4/17. The IPS moves several PFLP leaders to solitary confinement. Meanwhile, hundreds of Palestinians gather across Gaza, Israel, and the West Bank to demonstrate in solidarity with the prisoners. Israeli police violently suppress protests in Silwan; 1 Palestinian is injured. (EI, HA, MNA, WAFA 4/22; JP, TOI 4/23)

Two Palestinian men attack a synagogue in West Jerusalem, killing 4 rabbis and 1 Druze policeman, and injuring around 8 others. Policemen shoot and kill the 2 men. Later in the day, Israeli security forces raid the men’s homes in Jabal Mukabir, East Jerusalem, and arrest 12 of their relatives. Clashes break out between Palestinians and Israeli officers in the neighborhood, injuring 22 Palestinians with tear gas and rubber-coated metal bullets. More clashes erupt in Sur al-Bahir, Wadi al-Juz, and al-Tur. Israeli PM Netanyahu orders the punitive demolition of the 2 men’s homes, and adds additional border police in Jerusalem. (HA, JP, MNA, NYT 11/18; MNA 11/19, 11/20; ALM 11/21)

A 15-year-old Palestinian dies in a hospital in Turkey, succumbing to injuries sustained on 7/21 in Gaza during Israel’s Operation Protective Edge (OPE). (PCHR 11/20)

In the Gaza Strip, public servants in ministry offices, schools, and public universities begin a general strike, protesting the fact that their full salaries haven’t been paid for over a year. In the West Bank, Palestinians nr. Tulkarm protest the recent Israeli violence in Jerusalem, sparking clashes with IDF soldiers. Dozens of Israeli settlers attack a Palestinian school in ‘Urif village nr. Nablus in response to the killing of the 4 rabbis, and IDF troops injure 6 Palestinians with rubber-coated metal bullets, including a Reuters cameraman. Meanwhile, an Israeli settler shoots and seriously injures a Palestinian youth after a settler demonstration e. of Ramallah and Israeli settlers attack a Palestinian home s. of Nablus. Separately, settlers throw rocks at Palestinian vehicles nr. Nablus and Hebron. IDF troops shoot and injure a Palestinian in Baytin village nr. Ramallah. Also, IDF troops search the Hebron homes of 2 of the Palestinian men accused of kidnapping and killing 3 Israeli settler teenagers on 6/12; and raid Bayt Umar village. In East Jerusalem, Israeli settlers stab a Palestinian man on the street in Kafr ‘Aqab, moderately injuring him. Separately, Israeli minister of internal security Yitzhak Aharonovitch enters Shu‘fat r.c. and Palestinian youth throw stones and bottles at him. In the ensuing clashes with Israeli security forces, several Palestinians suffer from tear gas inhalation. Israeli forces demolish the home of the Palestinian man who was killed by police after driving a vehicle into a group of pedestrians on 10/22. Also, Israeli police arrest a Palestinian man on the charge of incitement after he posts videos and images to a Facebook page supporting violence against Israelis. (MNA, SAFA, WAFA 11/18; MNA 11/19; PCHR 11/20; JP 11/24)

Palestinian bus drivers working for the Israeli bus company Egged go on strike in protest of the death of their colleague on 11/16. Over 40 of them quit after Egged decides not to provide additional security. (IMEMC 11/19; AFP 12/4)

Reps. of Iran and the P5+1 (U.S., UK, China, France, Russia, and Germany) resume negotiations in Vienna over Iran’s disputed nuclear program, aiming to meet the Joint Plan of Action’s extended deadline of 11/24. In London, U.S. Secy. of State Kerry meets with Oman’s FM Yusuf bin Alawi, a mediator in the talks with Iran. (GDN, HA 11/18; AP 11/19; NYT 11/20)

The Spanish parliament passes a symbolic res. urging recognition of Palestine as a state after Israel and the Palestinians negotiate a res. to their conflict. (IHY, REU 11/18)

In the Gaza Strip, Palestinians fire a rocket into s. Israel, causing no damage or injuries. Off the coast nr. Bayt Lahiya, Israeli naval vessels open fire on Palestinian fishermen, causing no damage or injuries. In the n. West Bank, a Palestinian dies at a checkpoint en route to work inside Israel, apparently caused by overcrowding. In Bethlehem, Palestinians throw a pipe bomb at Rachel’s Tomb, lightly injuring 1, while separately, Palestinians throw an improvised explosive device at a military base nr. Bethlehem, causing no damage or casualties. The IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in Hebron and 1 nearby village, in Nablus and nearby Balata r.c., and in 1 village each nr. Tubas and Tulkarm at night; patrols in 1 village each nr. Ramallah and Tulkarm in the morning, and in Tulkarm and 1 village each nr. Hebron and Ramallah at night. Jewish settlers attack a school and water reservoir in Urif village nr. Nablus, provoking clashes with Palestinian residents. Israeli forces arrive and fire tear gas at the Palestinians. Separately, Jewish settlers attack Palestinians nr. Mitzpe Yair in the s. Hebron hills, prompting clashes that leave 4 Israelis and 1 Palestinian lightly injured. (JP, MNA, ToI, YA 1/6; PCHR 1/9)

Israeli authorities publish plans for the construction of 272 new settlement homes in the West Bank, including the 1st ever master plan for Ofra, a settlement located 15 km (9 mi.) from the Green Line. PM Netanyahu holds a meeting with Likud MKs and tells them that he opposes evacuating settlements in Hebron and Beit El, despite their location outside the major blocs. Meanwhile, U.S. Secy. of State Kerry departs the region for Washington, assuring that progress has been made. (AFP, HA, JP, REU 1/6)

Dozens of Jewish settlers from Yitzhar settlement enter Burin village nr. Nablus and clash with Palestinians. The IDF intervenes, violently dispersing the Palestinian residents with tear gas and rubber-coated metal bullets, but causing no serious injuries. Jewish settlers also enter Urif village nr. Nablus and clash with Palestinian residents, causing no serious injuries. In the West Bank at night, the IDF patrols in Jericho, 1 village nr. Jenin and 1 village nr. Qalqilya at night; conducts house searches and arrest raids in 2 villages nr. Hebron, 3 villages nr. Jenin, in Nablus, 1 village nr. Nablus, 1 village nr. Ramallah and 1 village nr. Tulkarm. (AFP 5/11; PCHR 5/16)

The Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine–General Command (PFLP–GC) says that it is forming combat units to recapture the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights. The announcement comes after Syrian pres. Bashar al-Asad and Hizballah indicated that they would support such operations. (REU 5/11)

PLO Secy.-Gen. Fathi Abu al-Ardat says that at least 55,000 Palestinian refugees have fled Syria to Lebanon since the civil unrest in Syria began. (DS 5/11)

U.S. Secy. of State John Kerry welcomes the Arab League’s expression of support for reviving peace talks made the previous day, describing it as a ‘‘very big step forward.’’ An Israeli official welcomes the development, but says that the framework will not be a starting point for talks. Justice Minister Tzipi Livni says that the Arab League proposal represents encouragement for the Palestinians that they have regional support for a negotiated agreement. PLO Chief Negotiator Saeb Erekat says that the Arab League’s support for land swaps is nothing new. Meanwhile, Israel’s Construction and Housing Minister Uri Ariel says that his party, Bayit Yehudi, will not back a 2013 budget that does not include full funding for West Bank settlement construction projects. (NYT 4/29; MNA, JP 4/30)

In the Gaza Strip, the IDF makes an air strike nr. Rafah assassinating Hitham al-Mishal, whom Israel accuses of being a Salafist militant responsible for arms manufacturing. In response, Hamas urges Egypt to ensure that Israel stays committed to the truce deal signed at the end of Operation Pillar of Defense in 11/2012 (see QU 167). Israeli naval vessels open fire on Palestinian fishermen twice, once off the central Gaza coast nr. Dayr al-Balah and once off the south Gaza coast nr. Rafah, in the latter case causing damage and 1 injury. IDF forces also make a brief incursion into central Gaza nr. Juhr al-Dikto level land and clear lines of sight along the border fence. In the West Bank, a Palestinian fatally stabs a Jewish settler from Yitzhar at a Tapuach junction bus stop. In retaliation, Jewish settlers riot and attack Palestinians across the West Bank, including blocking roads and throwing stones at passing vehicles. Overall, the Palestinian civil defense report 57 fires across the West Bank caused by settlers, with damage to hundreds of olive and almond trees. In the most serious incident, Jewish settlers from Yitzhar settlement attack a mosque in Urif village and try to set it on fire; and stone a bus carrying Palestinian schoolchildren, injuring 2. The attack on Urif sparks clashes between IDF forces and Palestinians, leaving 4 Palestinians injured. Meanwhile, the IDF patrols in Hebron and 2 villages nr. Ramallah in the morning; conducts house searches and arrest raids in Tulkarm in the afternoon, and in Bethlehem and Tulkarm at night. (HA, MNA 4/30; MNA 5/1; PCHR 5/2)

UNRWA estimates that 235,000 Palestinian refugees have been displaced inside Syria during the ongoing civil war. (AP, WAFA 4/30)

The Egyptian government announces that Fatah and Hamas have agreed to start implementing previous reconciliation agreements, following talks between PA pres. Abbas and Hamas leader Mishal in Cairo. Abbas spokesperson Nabil Abu Rudaineh says the 2 sides agreed on the formation of several joint committees, including ones dealing with presidential and parliamentary elections in the West Bank and Gaza Strip, the formation of a Palestinian unity government, and the reconstruction of the PLO. (JP 1/10)

Gaza’s Minister of Public Works and Housing Yousef Subhi al-Ghariz says that the United Arab Emirates has donated $50 m. to build a housing project for Palestinians released from Israeli jails. (MNA 1/10)

IDF forces make a brief incursion into n. Gaza nr. Bayt Lahiya to level land 200 m inside the border fence. In the West Bank, the IDF patrols in al-‘Arub r.c. nr. Hebron, 2 villages nr. Hebron, and 1 village nr. Tulkarm at night; conducts house searches and arrest raids in 1 village nr. Tulkarm at night. Jewish settlers from Yitzhar settlement nr. Nablus attack Palestinians from ‘Urif village; the IDF intervenes and opens fire on the Palestinians, wounding 1 in the leg with live ammunition. Jewish settlers from the Esh Kodesh outpost nr. Nablus open fire on Palestinians from Qusra village, wounding 1. Palestinians throw rocks at Jewish settler vehicles in the West Bank, injuring 3 Israelis in 2 separate incidents. (JP, MNA 1/10; PCHR 1/17)

Masked gunmen claiming affiliation to Fatah parade through Balata r.c. in Nablus and hold a press conference urging the PA security forces to stop imprisoning their members. (MNA 1/10)

The IDF closes a section of the highway close to the Egyptian border to civilian traffic, citing security concerns related to unrest in the Sinai Peninsula. Meanwhile, Egyptian security forces arrest 4 men nr. the Libyan border on suspicion of arms smuggling to Sinai— the haul includes anti-aircraft gun rounds, explosives, and RPG launchers. (ToI 1/10)

PA pres. Abbas rejects a conditional Israeli offer to let Palestinian refugees fleeing the civil war in Syria resettle in the West Bank and Gaza, claiming it would compromise the right of return. (AP 1/10)

In the West Bank, Jewish settlers attack Palestinian-owned vehicles in between Bethlehem and Hebron. Settlers also damage around 250 olive trees southeast of Nablus, and later cut down 12 olive trees in Basalta nr. Nablus. In the latter case, Palestinians throw stones at the settlers, who are subsequently protected by IDF soldiers, who fire rubbercoated steel bullets and injure 3 Palestinians. The IDF also opens fire with live ammunition and rubber-coated steel bullets on Palestinians in Tamoun village nr. Jenin during clashes sparked by an arrest raid, injuring 30. The IDF also opens fire on stone-throwing Palestinian youths who challenge troops entering ‘Urif village nr. Nablus. The IDF patrols in 2 villages nr. Jenin and 1 village nr. Tulkarm in the morning, in 1 village each nr. Jenin and Tulkarm in the afternoon, and in 3 villages nr. Tulkarm and 2 nr. Jenin at night; conducts house searches and arrest raids in 1 village nr. Hebron at night. (MNA 1/1, PCHR 2/1)

Israel’s High Court of Justice gives the state an extended deadline for the demolition of unauthorized settler outpost Amona in the c. West Bank, delaying removal until the end of 4/2013. The outpost was set up on the site of a previous outpost of the same name that was evacuated in 2006, and had been slated for evacuation in February. (ToI 1/1)

Israeli newspaper Ha’Aretz reports that around 50 residents of Issawiyya in East Jerusalem have been arrested over the last month in clashes with security forces. Tensions are linked to the hunger-striking Palestinian prisoner Samer Issawi, who comes from the village. (HA 1/1)

Reporters Without Borders (RSF) registers its opposition to the 12/27 Hamas-imposed ban on Palestinian journalists in the Gaza Strip working with the Israeli media. (Guardian 1/1)

Palestinians demonstrate in Nablus against a recent decision to end refugees’ exemption from electricity costs. Around 200 protesters clash with PA security forces, angry that a debt-exemption clause is not applicable to non-refugees. (MNA 1/1)

Senior Likud officials speak at a conference in Jerusalem on a ‘‘one-state solution,’’ including Min. Yuli Edelstein, who voices support for the annexation of Area C of the West Bank. Likud politician and Knesset candidate Moshe Feiglin outlines his plan to pay Palestinian families in the West Bank $500,000 each to emigrate abroad. (Guardian, ToI 1/1)

A report in JTA indicates that 2 major American Jewish groups—the American Israel Public Affairs Comm. (AIPAC) and the Reform movement—are in disagreement about how to respond to the Palestinians’ successful UN bid. AIPAC has supported 2 congressional bids to shut down the PLO office in Washington, D.C., while the Reform movement has urged Obama not to punish the Palestinians for the initiative. Both groups, however, are apparently waiting to see if the Palestinians will use their new status to bring Israel before the ICC before backing penalties. (JTA 1/1)

The IDF patrols in Tulkarm and 1 nearby village at night; conducts latenight arrest raids, house searches in Dahaysha r.c. Palestinians (accompanied by Israeli and international activists) hold weekly nonviolent demonstrations against the separation wall, land confiscations, and settlement expansion in Bil‘in, Kafr Qaddum (nr. Qalqilya), al-Nabi Salih, and Nuba (nr. Ramallah). IDF soldiers fire live ammunition (al-Nabi Salih only), rubber-coated steel bullets, tear gas, and stun grenades at the protesters; 5 Palestinians are hit by tear gas canisters in Kafr Qaddum. Jewish settlers fr. Yitzhar set fire to a large wooded area and crop lands in ‘Urif village. Hours later, the same settlers set fire to another plot of Palestinian crop land n. of ‘Urif; as local Palestinians come to put out the blaze, the fleeing settlers grab, handcuff, and shoot in the abdomen 1 Palestinian, seriously wounding him; the IDF observes but does not intervene until the shooting, at which point soldiers step in to halt the violence. (PCHR 5/31; OCHA 6/1)