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  • October 19, 2022

    In the West Bank, Israeli settlers assaulted Israeli activists helping Palestinians in Kisan with olive harvesting. Israeli settlers also assaulted Palestinians harvesting olives with sticks and...

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  • September 15, 2022

    In the West Bank, Israeli forces shot and killed 1 Palestinian minor and injured 3 others during a late-night raid in Kafr Dan, where Israeli forces took measurements to punitively demolish the...

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  • January 23, 2022

    In the West Bank, Israeli settlers vandalized 7 Palestinian-owned vehicles in Qira, puncturing tires and spray-painting the Star of David. Israeli forces seized 1 garbage truck near Salfit....

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  • January 10, 2022

    In the West Bank, Israeli settlers razed Palestinian-owned land around the Yitzhar settlement. Israeli settlers with military escort also threw stones at Palestinian vehicles traveling near al-...

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  • October 3, 2021

    In the West Bank, Israeli settlers vandalized dozens of olive trees in Burin. Israeli settlers also stole olives from a Palestinian farmer near Salfit. 8 Palestinians were arrested during late-...

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  • February 27, 2020

    In the West Bank, Israeli settlers uprooted some 200 olive trees and 80 vine trees in al-Khadir. Israeli forces demolished 2 residential structures and 2 animal barns south of Hebron; and 1 house...

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  • December 3, 2017

    In East Jerusalem, Israeli settlers visit Haram al-Sharif, sparking a minor confrontation with Islamic Waqf guards; there are no serious injuries. Israeli police later arrest 4 of the guards....

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  • September 26, 2015

    Off Gaza’s coast nr. Khan Yunis, Israeli naval forces ram and consequently sink a Palestinian fishing boat, causing no injuries. In the West Bank, Palestinian youths burn tires and throw stones at...

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  • April 28, 2015

    IDF troops on the Gaza border e. of Khan Yunis fire warning shots at Palestinian farmers nr. the border fence, causing some damage but no injuries. Off the coast nr. al-Sudaniyya, Israeli naval...

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  • April 10, 2015

    In the West Bank, IDF troops block a large funeral procession in a village nr. Hebron for the Palestinian man who died on 4/9 from health issues he developed in Israeli prison. The soldiers...

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  • May 22, 2014

    In the Gaza Strip, IDF troops conduct a limited incursion to level land close to the border fence nr. Khan Yunis. In the West Bank, the IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 1 village...

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  • February 19, 2014

    Off the coast of the Gaza Strip nr. Rafah, Israeli naval vessels open fire on Palestinian fishermen, causing damage but no injuries. In the West Bank, the IDF conducts house searches and arrest...

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  • February 14, 2014

    In the Gaza Strip, Israeli forces open fire on Palestinian demonstrators with live ammunition nr. Jabaliya r.c., close to the border fence, wounding 16, some of whom were also struck by tear gas...

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  • January 27, 2014

    In the Gaza Strip, Israeli forces shoot and wound a Palestinian nr. Dayr al-Balah close to the border fence after an explosion targets an Israeli military jeep, causing no injuries. Separately,...

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  • December 20, 2013

    In the Gaza Strip, Israeli forces kill 1 Palestinian and wound 1 other close to the border fence nr. Bayt Hanun, after the individuals had approached the fence to collect scrap metal. Separately,...

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  • December 6, 2013

    In the Gaza Strip, Israeli forces open fire on agricultural lands nr. Khan Yunis, causing no casualties. In the West Bank, IDF troops shoot a Palestinian civilian with live ammunition in c. Hebron...

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  • October 18, 2013

    In the West Bank, the IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 1 village each nr. Hebron and Qalqilya at night; patrols in 2 villages nr. Hebron and 1 village nr. Tulkarm at night. IDF...

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  • September 13, 2013

    In the West Bank, the IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 1 village nr. Qalqilya in the morning; patrols in 1 village nr. Hebron in the afternoon, and in al-Fawar r.c. nr. Hebron and 1...

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  • June 6, 2013

    In the West Bank, the IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 1 village nr. Hebron and 1 village nr. Ramallah at night; patrols in Salfit and 1 village nr. Ramallah in the morning, in...

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  • May 7, 2013

    Two small rockets and later a mortar land in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights, causing no damage or injuries. While the IDF says the fire is ‘‘accidental spillover’’ from the Syrian civil war,...

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  • April 30, 2013

    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...

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  • April 26, 2013

    In the West Bank, IDF soldiers demolish 2 structures in Oz Zion, a Jewish settlement outpost nr. Ramallah. The IDF also patrols in al-‘Arub r.c. nr. Hebron and 2 villages nr. Hebron in the...

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  • January 10, 2013

    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...

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  • January 3, 2013

    In a meeting chaired by Pres. Abbas, the PLO Executive Comm. affirms the need for a UNSC resolution against Israeli settlement construction. Abbas also signs a decree changing the name of the PA...

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  • July 13, 2012

    IDF soldiers on the n. Gaza border nr. Bayt Lahiya open fire on 2 Palestinians attempting to sneak into Israel to find work, killing 1 Palestinian and wounding and detaining the other. In the West...

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  • October 17, 2000

    After several more hrs. of talks among Arafat, Barak, Clinton, Mubarak, King Abdallah, Annan, and Solana, Clinton announces that Arafat, Barak have agreed on steps toward halting the clashes. No...

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  • July 16, 1992

    Israeli govt. declares 1-week freeze on signing contracts for govt.-subsidized housing, including those affecting construction i the o.t. Freeze also is called on planning and early proceedings of...

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In the West Bank, Israeli settlers assaulted Israeli activists helping Palestinians in Kisan with olive harvesting. Israeli settlers also assaulted Palestinians harvesting olives with sticks and pepper spray in Jamma‘in. Israeli forces shot and killed 1 Palestinian after he allegedly shot and injured a settlement guard at the Ma’aleh Adumim settlement. The Palestinian is also accused of having shot and killed an Israeli soldier on 10/8. Israeli forces also delivered demolition notices against 1 agricultural structure in Azzun ‘Atma and 1 in Nabi Ilyas. Elsewhere, Israeli forces prevented Palestinians from harvesting olives near Dayr al-Ghusun by denying them access to their land. (AP, HA, HA, REU, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 10/19; MDW, MEE, MEMO, PCHR, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 10/20; HA 10/21; UNOCHA 11/1)

Acting UN humanitarian coordinator for the occupied Palestinian territories Lucia Elmi said 2022 had been the deadliest year on average for Palestinians in the West Bank and East Jerusalem since 2006. Coordinator Elmi said at least 105 Palestinians, including 26 children, had been killed, up by 57% compared to the monthly average in 2021. (WAFA 10/19)

A group of Hamas officials, including Khalil al-Hayya, met with Syrian president Bashir al-Asad in Damascus. Hamas cut relations with the Syrian government in 2012 after the outbreak of the Syrian civil war. (REU 10/18; AP, HA, MEE, REU 10/19)

Hamas said that Saudi Arabia had released 83-year-old Hamas official Mohammad Al-Khudary from prison after 3 years; he was said to be traveling to Jordan. (AJ, MEE, REU 10/19)

Israeli defense minister Benny Gantz issued a statement saying that Israel will not supply air defense systems to Ukraine. Media reported that while Israel is under pressure to support Ukraine in their effort to repel Russian forces, the Israeli government is afraid that Russia will retaliate by supplying S-400 air defense systems to Syria and Iran. (AX, HA, HA, MEE 10/19; HA, MEMO 10/20)

PA prime minister Mohammed Shtayyeh said Arab and Islamic countries had donated $39.5 million for developmental projects in Palestine through the Islamic Development Bank. (MEMO 10/20)

The PA also signed a $6.3 million economic support agreement with Norway and the UN development program for school projects in East Jerusalem. (WAFA 10/19)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces shot and killed 1 Palestinian minor and injured 3 others during a late-night raid in Kafr Dan, where Israeli forces took measurements to punitively demolish the family home of 2 Palestinians killed in an exchange of fire at the Jalamah checkpoint on 9/14. The PA called on the U.S. to pressure Israel into ending its deadly nightly raids and condemned the killing. Israeli forces also fired tear gas near a school in Burin, prompting an evacuation of the students. Elsewhere, Israeli forces delivered stop-work notices for 5 industrial structures in Qarawat Bani Hassan. Israeli forces also raided al-Twana to pray and attend a lecture in the middle of a populated street in the early hours of the night; Israeli settlers claim that a synagogue once stood in the village. 1 Israeli settler was shot and injured at the Carmel settlement; there was no information about the suspect. 15 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in Sa‘ir, Yatta, Surif, Hebron, Kafr Ra‘i, Jaba‘, and Kafr Dan. In East Jerusalem, former MK Yehuda Glick toured the Bab al-Rahma area of the Haram al-Sharif compound, raising an Israeli flag and blowing a shofar. Israeli forces fired tear gas into the schoolyard of Isawiya high school for boys, injuring 5 students with tear gas. 3 Palestinian minors were arrested at the Haram al-Sharif compound. (AJ, AP, HA, HA, JP, MDW, MEE, PCHR, REU, TOI, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 9/15; MEMO 9/16; HA 9/21; PCHR 9/22; HA 9/23; UNOCHA 9/30)

The Israeli state attorney’s office closed an investigation into the killing of a 17-year-old Palestinian citizen of Israel by an Israeli police officer in May 2021 in Umm al-Fahm, saying it found no evidence of wrongdoing. The family of the Palestinian minor said the process relating to the long investigation had been abusive and that they believe the killing was unjustified. (HA 9/15)

Hamas announced that it had fully restored ties with Syria after severing ties in 2012 due to the outbreak of the Syrian civil war. (MEMO, MEMO 9/16; MEE 9/18; ALM 9/22; ALM 9/24; AJ 9/25)

The PLO executive committee confirmed that it supports PA president Mahmoud Abbas’s bid to have Palestine become a full member of the UN. President Abbas is expected to give a speech on 9/23 at the UN general assembly seeking recognition for the state of Palestine. (WAFA 9/15)

The Balad party announced that it is not running as part of the Joint Arab List at the next Israeli elections. The Joint Arab List now consists of the Hadash and Ta‘al parties. (HA 9/15; AP, JP, TOI 9/16)

U.S. senator Patrick Leahy (D-VT) said in a statement that the Leahy Law, prohibiting military aid to countries that violate human rights, should apply to Israel if Shireen Abu Akleh was killed intentionally. In the statement, he questioned Israel’s probe, which found that Abu Akleh was not killed intentionally, saying, “[i]f, as the Israeli authorities appear to be saying, the soldier missed who he was aiming at and hit Ms. Abu Akleh by mistake, who was he aiming at? What evidence is there, if any, that anyone in the immediate vicinity of where Ms. Abu Akleh was shot was firing at the [Israeli] soldier who killed her?” Senator Leahy’s statement comes 1 day after the senate foreign relations committee demanded a report from the state department regarding the killing of Abu Akleh. (AJ 9/15; MEE 9/16; GDN 9/26)

Chilean president Gabriel Boric postponed the acceptance of the Israeli ambassador’s credentials due to Israel’s killing of a 17-year-old Palestinian in the West Bank (see above). Israel said that the Chilean foreign ministry had apologized to the Israeli government for the situation. The Israeli ambassador had reportedly arrived at the president’s residence when he was told about the postponement. (HA, TOI 9/15; AP, HA, JP, MEE, NA, REU, WAFA 9/16; AJ, REU 9/17; HA 9/18)

A delegation of officials from the UAE, led by foreign minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, visited Israel for meetings with Israeli president Isaac Herzog and other officials to celebrate the 2-year anniversary of the 2 countries’ normalization deal. (MEMO, REU 9/14; ALM, HA 9/15)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers vandalized 7 Palestinian-owned vehicles in Qira, puncturing tires and spray-painting the Star of David. Israeli forces seized 1 garbage truck near Salfit. Israeli forces also started razing 50 dunams (12.5 acres) of agricultural lands near Dura for settlement expansion. 6 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in ‘Azzun and Tulkarm. (HA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 1/23; PCHR 1/27)

An Israeli district court rejected a petition by the Salhiya family to have their house rebuilt after it was demolished by Israeli forces on 1/19. The family’s lawyer said they would appeal the case to the High Court of Justice. (WAFA 1/23)

A leaked summary of an investigation by the Israeli military into the death of an 80-year-old Palestinian man who died after being detained by Israeli forces on 1/12 found that his gag, which was left on for more than 1 hour during the detention, could have impeded his breathing, and the exposure to cold weather where he was left could have caused hypothermia, leading to his death. Israeli soldiers testified that they left him after removing his cuffs without providing medical attention or checking on his health. The man was pronounced dead at a Ramallah hospital after being found by Palestinian residents of Jiljilyya. (HA, TOI, WP 1/23; JP 1/24)

PA civil affairs minister Hussein al-Sheikh met with Israeli foreign minister Yair Lapid to discuss the Palestinian economy. (HA, JP, TOI 1/23; AN 1/24)

Hamas distanced itself from an Islamic Jihad arranged demonstration in solidarity with the people in Yemen on 1/22, where criticism of Saudi Arabia and other Gulf countries were on display. Hamas said, “[t]he shouts against Arab and Gulf states from our Palestinian arena do not represent our position and policy.” The statement from Hamas coincided with Dubai’s deputy police chief, tweeting that Mahmoud Zahar of Hamas was on the UAE most wanted list after he voiced support of Houthi attacks on the UAE. (JP 1/22; AP, HA, TOI 1/23; MEMO, MEMO 1/24)

Data released by Action Group for Palestinians in Syria reported that 653 Palestinians have been tortured to death by the Syrian government since the outbreak of the Syrian Civil War in 2011. (MEMO 1/23)

+972 Magazine reported that he Israeli cabinet had approved $30 million to revive its “Solomon’s Sling” program to fund propaganda efforts in the U.S. and Europe. The program, which sees money funneled by the Israeli government to pro-Israel activists and organizations through a public benefit corporation, was originally steered by the ministry of strategic affairs. The ministry was folded into the foreign ministry by the current Israeli government and the program will continue under the foreign ministry. (+972 1/25)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers razed Palestinian-owned land around the Yitzhar settlement. Israeli settlers with military escort also threw stones at Palestinian vehicles traveling near al-Bireh, causing damage. Israeli forces clashed with Israeli settlers as they evacuated the Oz Zion settlement outpost north of Jerusalem. Israeli undercover forces raided Birzeit University campus, forcing 5 students into a van with Palestinian license plates; 2 other students attempting to aid the 5 were shot and injured. The 5 students were released hours later. The PA condemned the raid. Israeli forces also demolished 2 residential structures and 1 agricultural structure near Idhna. 17 Palestinians were arrested during raids in Beit Fajjar, al-Khader, Jalazun refugee camp, al-Am’ari refugee camp, Beita, and Anzah. In East Jerusalem, Israeli settlers led by deputy mayor of Jerusalem Aryeh King and MK from the Religious Zionist party Itamar Ben-Gvir made a provocative tour in Sheikh Jarrah. Israeli forces assaulted 1 Palestinian and confiscated his flag during the settler tour in Sheikh Jarrah. Israeli forces also demolished a car wash in Isawiya and a cemetery under construction in Umm Tuba. 3 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids. In the Naqab desert, as the Jewish National Fund began a forestation project near Sawa in defiance of protest from local Palestinian Bedouins of the al-Atrash tribe who use the land for agriculture, Israeli police violently dispersed Palestinian protesters near Hura; leader of the United Arab List Mansour Abbas threatened to boycott Knesset sessions if the work continued. (ALM 1/8; HA, HA, MEE, MEMO, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 1/10; PCHR 1/11; HA 1/12; PCHR, WAFA 1/13)

PA foreign ministry summoned the Dutch Head of Mission to Palestine Kees van Baar to protest the Dutch government’s decision, from 1/6, to end funding to the Palestinian Union of Agricultural Work Committees. (HA, WAFA 1/10)

Secretary general of the Fatah Central Committee Jibril Rajoub said at a press conference in Damascus that PA president Mahmoud Abbas would visit Syrian president Bashir al-Asad in Syria soon. The visit would be the 1st since the Syrian civil war. The UAE has lead the rehabilitation of President al-Asad’s government and King Abdullah II of Jordan recently followed suit with a phone call to al-Asad. (MEE 1/11; ALM 1/16)

Members of the U.S. House and Senate formed the Abraham Accords Congressional Caucus to promote normalization deals between Israel and various Arab and Muslim countries. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) said that the bipartisan caucus will work to “strengthen existing partnerships and widen the circle of peace to new countries.” (MEMO, TOI 1/11)

Pro-Palestine activists shut down a facility in Oldham that produces technology for the Israeli weapons manufacture Elbit. Activists have, through different methods of civil disobedience, obstructed the work at the factory over an 18-month period. During that time, 36 activists have been arrested by English police. (MDW, MEMO 1/11)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers vandalized dozens of olive trees in Burin. Israeli settlers also stole olives from a Palestinian farmer near Salfit. 8 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in Balata refugee camp, Kobar, al-Bireh, Ni‘lin, and Kafr Ein. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces demolished fencing in Silwan, leading to a confrontation with its owners, 2 were injured by Israeli forces assaulting them with their rifles, including 1 minor. 1 Palestinian family demolished their own home in Bayt Hanina. 2 Palestinians were arrested near the Damascus Gate plaza. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 10/3; WAFA 10/4 PCHR 10/7)

Israel charged the 6 Palestinian prisoners who escaped Gilboa prison on 9/6 with offenses related to their escape, potentially carrying additional sentences of up to 7 years. 5 other Palestinian prisoners were charged with helping them escape, also risking 7 more years. Israeli police had initially said that the 6 had planned to carry out attacks; however, no such charges were filed against them. (AJ, HA, MEMO 10/3)

PA president Mahmoud Abbas met with 2 Israeli ministers from the Meretz (Vigor) party: health minister Nitzan Horowitz and regional cooperation minister Issawi Frej. The meeting took place in Ramallah to “boost” cooperation between the PA and parts of the Israeli government and to ensure that steps to hurt the 2-state solution are curbed. President Abbas said he invites all Israeli ministers to come to Ramallah and engage with the PA, saying “[w]e don’t have to agree, but we need to talk.” (ALM 10/1; HA 10/2; HA, MEE 10/3; ALM, MEMO, WAFA 10/4)

The PA urged the international community to intervene as settler violence against Palestinians continued to rise in the West Bank. (WAFA 10/3)

A delegation of Hamas officials met with Egypt’s intelligence chief Abbas Kamel to discuss a long-term ceasefire with Israel and intra-Palestinian relations. Hamas later released a statement, saying that the organization did not reach an agreement with Egypt about a long-term ceasefire with Israel despite media reports on the contrary. It was also reported that 19 members of the Hamas political bureau from Qatar, Turkey, and Gaza would meet in Egypt. (MEMO 10/3; ALM 10/12)

Palestinian officials told Haaretz that the U.S. is planning to reopen its consulate to Palestinians in Jerusalem after the Israeli government passes its budget in the Knesset. (HA 10/3; MEMO 10/4)

King Abdullah II of Jordan spoke to Syrian president Bashir al-Assad for the 1st time since the start of the Syrian Civil War in 2011. (REU 10/3; MEMO 10/5)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers uprooted some 200 olive trees and 80 vine trees in al-Khadir. Israeli forces demolished 2 residential structures and 2 animal barns south of Hebron; and 1 house and 1 workshop in al-Walaja. 12 Palestinians were arrested in and around Hebron, Jenin, Qalqilya, and Ramallah. 1 Fatah official from Jericho was placed in 6-month administrative detention without charges. During a raid in Jenin, Israeli forces and Palestinians clashed; 1 Palestinian was injured by a rubber-coated bullet. In East Jerusalem, 1 Palestinian minor was arrested. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire on Palestinian agricultural lands east of Dayr al-Balah and al-Maghazi; no injuries were reported. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 2/27; PCHR 3/5)

In Syria, an Israeli drone strike killed 1 person near Quneitra. Syrian opposition media reported that the man was a Hezbollah operative, while Syrian state media said he was a local policeman. (HA 2/27)

Japan donated $22.4 million for various UNRWA projects throughout Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, Gaza, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem. (WAFA 2/28)

In East Jerusalem, Israeli settlers visit Haram al-Sharif, sparking a minor confrontation with Islamic Waqf guards; there are no serious injuries. Israeli police later arrest 4 of the guards. Israeli forces also arrest 3 Palestinians during late-night raids in Silwan, al-Tur, and Kafr ‘Aqab. In the West Bank, IDF troops arrest 15 Palestinians during late-night raids in and around Ramallah, Bethlehem, Hebron, Nablus, and Qalqilya; and patrol near Hebron and Qalqilya. In 4 separate incidents off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Jabaliya refugee camp and Bayt Lahiya, causing no serious damage or injuries (5 fishermen are arrested and their boat is seized). (TOI 12/3; MNA, WAFA 12/4; PCHR 12/7)

A projectile fired from Syria lands in an open area in the Israeli-controlled Golan Heights, causing no damage or injuries. It’s unclear if it was an intentional attack or errant fire from the Syrian civil war. (HA, TOI 12/3)

Off Gaza’s coast nr. Khan Yunis, Israeli naval forces ram and consequently sink a Palestinian fishing boat, causing no injuries. In the West Bank, Palestinian youths burn tires and throw stones at IDF vehicles on a road to an Israeli settlement nr. Nablus, sparking clashes with IDF troops who injure 1 Palestinian with live ammunition. The IDF patrols in 2 villages nr. Ramallah during the day; violently disperses Palestinians protesting the occupation nr. Qalqilya, causing no injuries. Israeli soldiers assault a Palestinian youth at a checkpoint nr. Nablus, accusing him of throwing a Molotov cocktail at them. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 8 Palestinians on raids in the Old City. (PCHR 10/1)

A rocket fired from Syria lands in an open area in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights, causing no injuries. The IDF says it was errant fire from the Syrian conflict. (MNA, TOI 9/26)

IDF troops on the Gaza border e. of Khan Yunis fire warning shots at Palestinian farmers nr. the border fence, causing some damage but no injuries. Off the coast nr. al-Sudaniyya, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boasts, causing no injuries. Also off the coast, IAF jets fire flash bombs nr. Palestinian fishing boats. In the West Bank, Israeli forces demolish a home nr. Ramallah. IDF troops clash with stone-throwing Palestinians in c. Hebron and nr. Nablus, causing a number to suffer from tear gas inhalation. The IDF also conducts raids in a village nr. Hebron, arresting 9 Palestinians; patrols in and around Tulkarm, as well as 1 village each nr. Hebron and Qalqilya. An Israeli settler rams his car into a Palestinian child s. of Hebron, injuring him. Also, Israeli settlers damage water pipes leading to Palestinian homes in c. Hebron, causing minor flooding. In East Jerusalem, Israeli authorities ban 4 Palestinians from entering Haram al-Sharif for varying amounts of time after 3 are arrested in the sanctuary. In Tel Aviv, thousands of Palestinian citizens of Israel gather in Rabin Square to protest the housing shortage and home demolitions in their communities. Also, Palestinians across Israel conduct a general strike, responding to a call from the Arab High Follow-Up Comm. (AFP, HA, JP, MNA, WAFA 4/28; HA, MNA, PCHR 4/29; HA 4/30; PCHR 5/7)

Fired from Syria, 2 mortar shells land in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights, causing no injuries. The IDF describes them as “spillover” from the Syrian conflict. (HA, MNA, YA 4/28)

In a letter to EU foreign policy chief Mogherini, 59 mbrs. of the European parliament call for the release of PLC mbr. Jarrar, who was placed in administrative detention by the IDF on 4/2. (WAFA 4/29)

In the West Bank, IDF troops block a large funeral procession in a village nr. Hebron for the Palestinian man who died on 4/9 from health issues he developed in Israeli prison. The soldiers violently disperse stone-throwing mourners, killing 1 Palestinian and injuring 13 with live ammunition and rubber-coated metal bullets. The IDF also violently disperses Palestinian, Israeli, and international protesters at weekly nonviolent demonstrations against Israel’s separation wall, settlements, and occupation in 6 areas nr. Ramallah (Bil‘in, Ni‘lin, Silwad, Nabi Salih, Jalazun r.c., and outside Ofer Prison), Kafr Qaddum nr. Qalqilya, and outside an Israeli settlement nr. al-Bireh; 15 Palestinians are moderately injured and 4 are arrested. The IDF conducts house searches and raids in 2 villages nr. Nablus, arresting 2 Palestinians and assaulting 1; patrols in 2 villages each nr. Qalqilya and Ramallah, and 3 nr. Jericho. (HA, JP, MNA, TOI, YA 4/10; PCHR 4/16)

The Palestinian Medical Examination Union decides to halt the transfer of medical tests to Israeli labs, effectively signing the group on to the boycott of Israeli goods and products. (MNA 4/10)

Breaking the Palestinians’ nonintervention policy on the Syrian conflict, Senior Fatah official Tawfiq al-Tirawi calls for Palestinian fighters in Syria and Lebanon to defend Yarmouk r.c. against ISIS, which launched attacks in the camp on 4/1. Later, UN Dep. Special Envoy for Syria Ramzy Ezzeldin Ramzy flies to Damascus for consultations with the Syrian govt. about Yarmouk. (GDN, MNA 4/10)

In the Gaza Strip, IDF troops conduct a limited incursion to level land close to the border fence nr. Khan Yunis. In the West Bank, the IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 1 village each nr. Hebron, Qalqilya, and Salfit at night; patrols in 1 village nr. Hebron in the afternoon, and in 2 villages nr. Hebron, and 1 village each nr. Nablus, Ramallah, and Salfit at night. Israeli settlers use bulldozers to level Palestinian-owned land nr. Salfit. (MNA 5/22; PCHR 5/29)

Israeli PM Netanyahu says that “the idea of taking unilateral steps is gaining ground” among Israel’s political class, particularly in light of the collapse of U.S.-led negotiations, in an exclusive interview published by Bloomberg View. Netanyahu’s office subsequently clarifies that this is not a reference to any intention to evacuate settlements. Economy Minister Naftali Bennett welcomes the remarks and urges the adoption of his plan, which would include the annexation of parts of the West Bank. Meanwhile, senior Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) official Hanan Ashrawi condemns talk of unilateral steps as a way to bypass talks, while U.S. State Dept. spokesperson Marie Harf responds to Netanyahu’s remarks by emphasising that “no one should take any steps that undermine trust, including unilateral.” (Bloomberg, HA, YA 5/23)

China and Russia veto a UN Security Council (UNSC) res., drafted by France, referring the Syrian crisis to the International Criminal Court (ICC) for an investigation into possible war crimes. The 13 other mbrs. of the UNSC vote in favor. It is the 4th time that China and Russia have blocked Western-drafted resolutions on Syria since spring 2011. Meanwhile, the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) says that the last 100 tons of Syria’s declared stockpile of precursors for poison gas and nerve agents are ready for transport, but Syrian authorities say it is too dangerous to move them for the time being. (AFP, AP 5/23)

Gunmen kill Shadi al-Manaei, leader of Ansar Bayt al-Maqdis, along with 3 other mbrs. of the Egypt-based militant group, in a drive-by shooting in c. Sinai. Egyptian officials say that the attack is likely revenge for the group’s killing of local tribesmen as “collaborators.” (AP 5/22)

Lawmakers allied with Hizballah boycott a session of Lebanon’s parliament, blocking the body from electing a new pres. This is the 5th failed attempt in the past mo. Lebanon’s current pres., Michael Suleiman, is scheduled to leave office on 5/24, the last day of his 6-year term. (AP 5/22)

Off the coast of the Gaza Strip nr. Rafah, Israeli naval vessels open fire on Palestinian fishermen, causing damage but no injuries. In the West Bank, the IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 4 villages nr. Hebron and 1 village nr. Qalqilya at night; patrols in 3 villages nr. Hebron at night. Jewish settlers attack Burin village nr. Nablus, throwing stones at schoolchildren, and assaulting a Palestinian man. Israeli forces arrive and fire rubber-coated metal bullets at villagers, causing no injuries. Meanwhile, Jewish settlers destroy 700 newly planted olive tree saplings nr. Ramallah, and in another incident, Jewish settlers demolish a Palestinian-owned agricultural shed nr. Bethlehem. In East Jerusalem, 30 Palestinian-owned vehicles nr. Bayt Safafa are vandalized, with racist “price tag” graffiti left at the scene. (MNA, WAFA 2/19; PCHR 2/20)

U.S. Secy. of State Kerry meets with PA Pres. Abbas in Paris to discuss the ongoing peace negotiations. The meeting was attended by Palestinian chief negotiator Saeb Erakat, PA spokesperson Nabil Abu Rudayna, and PLO Amb. to France Hayel Fahoum. State Dept. spokesperson Jen Psaki says that the “few hours” spent together were focused on “narrowing the gaps between the parties on a framework for negotiations.” State Dept. dep. spokesperson Marie Harf also says that Kerry expresses concern in the meeting about recent remarks made by Erakat about a potential boycott of Israel. Both before and after the meeting, Palestinian officials sound pessimistic about the prospects for a breakthrough, with an unnamed official describing the talks as facing a “real crisis.” While in Paris, Kerry also meets with Jordanian FM Nasser Judeh. (JP 2/18; AFP, AP, JP, YA 2/19)

On the 2d day of talks in Vienna, Dep. FM Abbas Araghchi tells Iranian media that representatives of Iran and the P5+1 countries have agreed on an agenda for negotiations and will meet again in Vienna at some point during the 2d half of 3/2014. Earlier, the U.S. State Dept. describes the 2d day of talks as “constructive and useful.” Meanwhile, Israeli media reports that a U.S. delegation will visit Israel to brief the Israeli govt. on the ongoing talks with Iran. (HA, REU 2/19)

Two suicide bombers attack the Iranian cultural center in Beirut, killing 8 and wounding dozens more. The attack is claimed by the al-Qa‘ida-linked Abdullah Azzam Brigades, which says the bombing was a response to Hizballah’s involvement in the Syrian conflict on the side of the govt. (AP, DS, REU 2/19)

In the Gaza Strip, Israeli forces open fire on Palestinian demonstrators with live ammunition nr. Jabaliya r.c., close to the border fence, wounding 16, some of whom were also struck by tear gas canisters. The Israeli military claims that hundreds of protesters throw stones at soldiers during the incident. Later, Palestinians fire 2 rockets into s. Israel, causing no damage or injuries. In the West Bank, IDF troops clash with Palestinians outside the entrance to Jalazun r.c. nr. Ramallah, shooting and wounding 6 protesters with live ammunition. The IDF conducts house searches in Bethlehem and 1 village nr. Hebron and Ramallah at night; patrols in Hebron and 1 nearby village in the afternoon, and in 3 villages nr. Ramallah and 1 village nr. Hebron and Salfit at night. IDF troops violently disperse Palestinian, Israeli, and international protesters at weekly demonstrations against Israel’s separation wall, settlements and occupation in 2 villages nr. Ramallah (Bil‘in and Ni‘lin), 1 village nr. Qalqilya (Kafr Qaddum), and 1 village nr. Bethlehem (al-Ma‘sara). There are no serious injuries, except in Kafr Qaddum (2 struck by bullets). (HA, MNA 2/14; PCHR 2/20)

Pres. Obama holds a summit with Jordan’s King Abdallah in Palm Springs, California, where the 2 discuss the ongoing IsraeliPalestinian negotiations, Syria, and other regional issues. Obama pledges $1 billion in loan guarantees for Amman, and renews a 5-year aid package. In Jordan, a protest takes place to call for Abdallah to revoke the peace treaty with Israel, with around 1,200 demonstrators affiliated with the local Muslim Brotherhood participating. (AFP, AP, REU 2/14)

The spokesperson for the Syrian opposition, Louay al-Safi, says that the second round of peace talks in Switzerland have reached a dead end, after a day of separate meetings between UN-Arab League joint special envoy Brahimi and the 2 sides. Meanwhile, sources at the OPCW say that Syria has relinquished only 11% of its chemical weapons, and is likely to miss the deadline for the stockpile’s destruction. (AP, REU 2/14)

In the Gaza Strip, Israeli forces shoot and wound a Palestinian nr. Dayr al-Balah close to the border fence after an explosion targets an Israeli military jeep, causing no injuries. Separately, Israeli forces open fire on farmland nr. Khan Yunis, causing no injuries, and in another incident, Israeli forces conduct a limited incursion nr. Bayt Hanun and search the area adjacent to the border fence before withdrawing. In the West Bank, the IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 2 villages nr. Hebron, and 1 village each nr. Jenin and Tulkarm at night; patrols in 2 villages nr. Jenin and in Tulkarm in the morning, 1 village nr. Qalqilya in the afternoon, and in 6 villages nr. Jenin and 3 villages nr. Hebron at night. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces demolish a total of 4 Palestinian homes, 2 each in the al-Isawiyya and Bayt Hanina neighborhoods. (AFP, MNA 1/27; PCHR 1/30)

A dispute escalates between Israeli PM Netanyahu and Economy and Trade Minister Naftali Bennett, with Netanyahu condemning his colleague for “irresponsible” comments, a reference to Bennett’s reported attack on the PM’s suggestion Israeli settlers could live under Palestinian rule. (HA, ToI 1/27)

The Israeli Air Force attacks a warehouse of S-300 missile launchers in the Syrian city of Latakia, according to Syrian opposition groups cited in Israeli media. The Syrian govt. neither confirms nor denies the alleged strike. (JP 1/27)

Egypt’s Supreme Council of the Armed Forces gives DM Sisi approval to run for pres., an election he is widely expected to win. (REU 1/27)

In the Gaza Strip, Israeli forces kill 1 Palestinian and wound 1 other close to the border fence nr. Bayt Hanun, after the individuals had approached the fence to collect scrap metal. Separately, Israeli forces open fire on civilians nr. Jabaliya r.c. and also nr. Khan Yunis, wounding 2 in each case. In the Jabaliya incident, Israeli forces opened fire after Palestinians throw stones at border positions. Off the coast nr. Bayt Lahiya, Israeli naval vessels open fire on Palestinian fishermen, causing no damage or injuries. In the West Bank, the IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 2 villages each nr. Bethlehem and Hebron at night; patrols in 2 villages nr. Jenin and 1 village nr. Qalqilya in the morning, and in 3 villages nr. Hebron at night. IDF troops violently disperse Palestinian, Israeli, and international protesters at weekly demonstrations against Israel’s separation wall, settlements and occupation in 3 villages nr. Ramallah (Bil‘in, Nabi Salih, and Ni‘lin), and 1 village nr. Qalqilya (Kafr Qaddum). There are no serious injuries reported. (MNA 12/20; PCHR 12/26)

UN-Arab League joint special envoy to Syria Lakhdar Brahimi says that around 30 countries would be invited to the planned peace conference in 1/2014, and that the U.S. and the Syrian opposition oppose Iran’s attendance. (AP 12/20)

In the Gaza Strip, Israeli forces open fire on agricultural lands nr. Khan Yunis, causing no casualties. In the West Bank, IDF troops shoot a Palestinian civilian with live ammunition in c. Hebron during a raid. The IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 1 village nr. Jenin in the afternoon, and in Hebron at night; patrols in 3 villages nr. Hebron at night. IDF troops violently disperse Palestinian, Israeli, and international protesters at weekly demonstrations against Israel’s separation wall, settlements, and occupation in 3 villages nr. Ramallah (Bil‘in, Nabi Salih, Ni‘lin), and 1 village nr. Qalqilya (Kafr Qaddum). There are no serious injuries except in Kafr Qaddum with 2 injured by tear gas canisters. Meanwhile, Jewish settlers vandalize property in a village nr. Nablus, leaving “price-tag” graffiti. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces violently disperse Palestinian worshippers at Haram al-Sharif, using tear gas, rubber-coated metal bullets, and stun grenades, injuring around 40. (MNA 12/6; PCHR 12/12)

As he departs Israel, U.S. Secy. of State Kerry says that Israel and the Palestinians are closer than they have been in years to achieving a peace deal. Speaking to reporters at Ben Gurion Airport, Kerry issues an upbeat assessment following 2 days of meetings with Netanyahu (who he met on 3 separate occasions) and Abbas (who he met once). Kerry says that 160 experts were involved in preparing a security plan presented by Gen. John Allen during the trip to both Netanyahu and Abbas (the details of which are not revealed). Separately, Israeli FM Lieberman tells the annual Saban Forum at the Brookings Institution in Washington that a deal is unlikely but talks are positive if only for the sake of conflict management. (HA, JTA 12/6)

An explosion targets IDF troops patrolling the border fence between the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights and Syria, causing no injuries or damage. Army investigations conclude that the blast was from a bomb remotely-detonated as troops passed by. (YA 12/6; AFP 12/7)

The Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons announces in a statement that it has verified the destruction of Syria’s unfilled munitions, as well as the destruction of parts of buildings at weapons production facilities. (AP 12/6)

The UNGA approves Jordan’s 2-year term on the UNSC, taking the place that Saudi Arabia rejected on 10/18 as a protest over the UN’s response to the civil war in Syria. Jordan will assume its role on 1/1, having secured 178 votes from the body’s 193 mbrs. (AFP 12/6)

In the West Bank, the IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 1 village each nr. Hebron and Qalqilya at night; patrols in 2 villages nr. Hebron and 1 village nr. Tulkarm at night. IDF troops violently disperse Palestinian, Israeli, and international protesters at weekly demonstrations against Israel’s separation wall, settlements, and occupation in 3 villages nr. Ramallah (Bil‘in, Nabi Salih, and Ni‘lin), and 1 village nr. Qalqilya (Kafr Qaddum). There are no serious injuries. (PCHR 10/24)

Saudi Arabia announces, via a Foreign Ministry statement, that it will decline to take up its seat on the UNSC in a show of frustration and anger at the body’s failure to take effective action with regard to the Syrian civil war and other Middle East issues. (REU 10/18)

In the West Bank, the IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 1 village nr. Qalqilya in the morning; patrols in 1 village nr. Hebron in the afternoon, and in al-Fawar r.c. nr. Hebron and 1 village nr. Tulkarm at night. IDF troops violently disperse Palestinian, Israeli, and international protesters at weekly demonstrations against Israel’s separation wall, settlements, and occupation in 3 villages nr. Ramallah (Bil‘in, Nabi Salih, and Ni‘lin), and 1 village nr. Qalqilya (Kafr Qaddum). There are no serious injuries. (PCHR 9/19)

U.S. Secy. of State John Kerry and Russian FM Sergey Lavrov meet the UN’s Special Envoy on Syria Lakhdar Brahimi in Geneva, to discuss both plans for an international peace conference, as well as the more pressing question of a plan to neutralize Syria’s chemical weapons stockpile. Following the meeting, Brahimi says he hopes to have a 2d peace conference sometime in 10/2013. Meanwhile, the Syrian opposition National Coalition (SNC) says it will appoint a provisional PM to boost its international credibility, an announcement made on the 1st day of a meeting of the 115-mbr. group. (AP, REU 9/13)

There are clashes across Egypt between supporters and opponents of ousted pres. Morsi, while the military continues its offensive against Islamist militants in the Sinai Peninsula, where 3 soldiers are wounded in 3 separate villages. There are 2 reported deaths in Alexandria and Beni Suef, with demonstrations also taking place in Cairo among others. (AP, REU 9/13)

Iranian nuclear chief Ali Akbar Salehi announces that the country has reduced its stock of 20 percent-enriched uranium by converting it to reactor fuel, news judged to aimed at easing tensions with the West. (AP 9/13)

In the West Bank, the IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 1 village nr. Hebron and 1 village nr. Ramallah at night; patrols in Salfit and 1 village nr. Ramallah in the morning, in Jenin and 3 nearby villages in the afternoon, and in 2 villages nr. Tulkarm, 1 village nr. Hebron, and 1 village nr. Ramallah at night. Jewish settlers uproot olive trees in Palestinian-owned fields nr. Hebron and in a separate incident attack Palestinian-owned cars with stones nr. Nablus, causing damage but no injuries. (MNA 6/6; PCHR 6/13)

Former president of an-Najah University Rami Hamdallah is sworn in as Palestinian PM at a ceremony with Pres. Mahmud Abbas, with the 24-member cabinet remaining mostly the same except for a few changes (such as the appointment of 2 deputy PMs, Ziad Abu Amr and Mohammed Mustafa, and a new fin. min., Shukri Bishara). Hamdallah replaces Salam Fayyad, who resigned in 4/2013. Abbas says that the new govt. is intended to remain until there can be an agreement with Hamas about when to hold elections. (MNA, REU 6/6)

Syrian opposition fighters briefly take control of a UN Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF)-operated crossing between Syria and the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights before it is retaken by the Syrian army. In response, Austria says it will withdraw its 380 members of the 1,000-strong UNDOF force. In a separate incident, a Filipino peacekeeper is injured when a shell lands at another UNDOF base. It is unclear whether the shell was fired by govt. or opposition forces. (AP, REU 6/6)

Two small rockets and later a mortar land in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights, causing no damage or injuries. While the IDF says the fire is ‘‘accidental spillover’’ from the Syrian civil war, rather than intentional, the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine-General Command says that Syrian government has given the Damascusbased group permission to attack Israeli targets in the Golan Heights. Syrian pres. Bashar al-Asad says that Syria is capable of facing Israel, but does not suggest Damascus will retaliate for the recent Israeli air strikes (e.g., 5/5). Hizballah’s deputy head Naim Qassem says that the Israeli attacks aim to boost the opposition fighters and does not comment on claims that missiles bound for the Lebanese group were the target. Meanwhile, Syrian rebel faction the Yarmouk Martyrs Brigade says that it is holding 4 Filipino UN peacekeepers it detained on the Syrian side of the ceasefire line between Syria and the occupied Golan Heights, claiming that fighting had endangered the observers. (AP, JP, REU, WP 5/7)

Israeli officials say that PM Benjamin Netanyahu has promised U.S. Secy. of State John Kerry to ‘‘rein in’’ settlement construction until mid-6/2013 in the context of renewed efforts to resume negotiations. (HA 5/7)

Israeli naval vessels open fire on Palestinian fishermen off the north Gaza coast, causing no damage or injuries.

In East Jerusalem, some 40 rightwing Israelis enter the al-Aqsa Mosque compound protected by Israeli security forces, sparking clashes with Palestinian worshippers.

In the West Bank, Jewish settlers attack Palestinian vehicles and agricultural land nr. Nablus, causing no injuries. The IDF patrols in 2 villages nr. Tulkarm in the morning, and in 2 villages nr. Hebron, 2 villages nr. Jenin and 1 village nr. Tulkarm at night. Also at night, IDF troops conduct house searches and arrest raids in Nablus, 1 village nr. Nablus, 1 village nr. Ramallah and 1 village nr. Tulkarm. (MNA, WAFA 5/7; PCHR 5/9)

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)

In the West Bank, IDF soldiers demolish 2 structures in Oz Zion, a Jewish settlement outpost nr. Ramallah. The IDF also patrols in al-‘Arub r.c. nr. Hebron and 2 villages nr. Hebron in the afternoon, and in 1 village nr. Ramallah at night. IDF soldiers violently disperse Palestinians, Israelis, and internationals taking part in nonviolent demonstrations against the Israeli occupation and in solidarity with Palestinian prisoners. The demonstrations are held in 4 villages nr. Ramallah (Bil‘in, Ni‘lin, al-Nabi Salih, Budrus), 1 village nr. Bethlehem (al-Ma’sara), 1 village nr. Hebron (Bayt Ummar), al-Haraiek area nr. Hebron, al-Shakara area nr. Ramallah, and 1 village nr. Qalqilya (Kafr Qaddum); 1 Palestinian is seriously injured in Kafr Qaddum by a tear gas canister to the head. IDF troops on the Gaza border e. of Jabaliya r.c. shoot and wound 1 Palestinian in the Gaza Strip. Israeli naval vessels open fire on Palestinian fishermen off the north Gaza coast and also off the south Gaza coast off Khan Yunis: no damage or injuries reported. (AFP, MNA 4/26; PCHR 5/2)

The European Union missions in Ramallah and Jerusalem express serious concern over Israel’s demolition of 22 structures across 8 locations in the West Bank and East Jerusalem earlier in the week that displaced 28 Palestinians. The EU statement notes that some of the destroyed structures were funded by member states. (JP 4/27)

U.S. Pres. Barack Obama hosts Jordan’s King Abdullah II at the White House, with discussions to include the Syrian crisis, as well as Jordan’s political and economic developments. Speaking to reporters in the Oval Office before the meeting, Pres. Obama says he would respond ‘‘prudently’’ and ‘‘deliberately’’ to solid evidence Syria has used chemical weapons, a development he describes as a ‘‘game changer’’ for Washington (see 4/23). (AFP, AP, REU, NYT 4/26)

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 a meeting chaired by Pres. Abbas, the PLO Executive Comm. affirms the need for a UNSC resolution against Israeli settlement construction. Abbas also signs a decree changing the name of the PA to the ‘‘State of Palestine,’’ with all stamps, signs, and official letterheads set to carry the new name. (MNA 1/3; ToI 1/4)

IDF soldiers make a brief incursion into c. Gaza, e. of Juhur al-Dik, to level land 100 m inside the border fence. In the West Bank, Israeli undercover forces launch an arrest raid into Jenin, sparking a clash with a large crowd of stone-throwing Palestinians; troops open fire on the crowd, wounding 1 man in the leg. The IDF also patrols in 1 village each nr. Jericho, Ramallah, and Salfit in the morning, in 2 villages nr. Jenin in the afternoon, and in 2 villages nr. Salfit and 1 village each nr. Jenin, Jericho, and Tulkarm at night; conducts house searches and arrest raids in 1 village nr. Jenin in the morning and in 1 village each nr. Hebron and Salfit at night. (MNA 1/3; PCHR 1/10)

An anonymous Israeli security source says that the IDF is planning to escalate arrest raids targeting Hamas mbrs. in the West Bank due to a ‘‘certain awakening’’ or simmering unrest. (YA 1/3)

Around 30,000 people participate in a festival in Nablus to mark Fatah’s 48th anniversary. Meanwhile, the movement’s supporters in the Gaza Strip begin to gather in preparation for their rally on 1/4. (MNA 1/3)

The Israeli organization Ir Amin reports that in 2012, publication of tenders for settlement apartments in East Jerusalem showed a three-fold increase compared to 2011 (rising to 2,386 units), and units approved for future construction a four-fold increase (to 6,932 units). (HA 1/3)

Head of Operations, Logistics, and Property at Israel’s Defense Ministry, Bezalel Treiber, says that in light of the war in Syria, the government is looking to improve the border fence with Syria and may do the same with Jordan, funds permitting. (NYT, ToI 1/3)

Speaking at an annual conference for Israel’s ambassadors abroad, PM Netanyahu says that Iran has not yet crossed the ‘‘red line’’ set by Israel on its nuclear program. The same gathering receives a Foreign Ministry paper predicting that the Syrian civil war has weakened the ability of Asad and Hizballah to respond in the event of an Israeli attack on Iranian nuclear facilities. (JP, ToI 1/3)

IDF soldiers on the n. Gaza border nr. Bayt Lahiya open fire on 2 Palestinians attempting to sneak into Israel to find work, killing 1 Palestinian and wounding and detaining the other. In the West Bank, the IDF patrols in 2 villages nr. Jericho and 1 nr. Ramallah in the morning; in Jericho and Tubas in the afternoon; and in 2 villages nr. Salfit (synchronized) late at night. 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, al-Nabi Salih, and Ni‘lin. IDF soldiers fire live ammunition (al-Nabi Salih only), rubber-coated steel bullets, tear gas, and stun grenades at the protesters. In total, 1 Palestinian photographer (Bil‘in) and 1 Palestinian demonstrator are hit by tear gas canisters; 1 Palestinian demonstrator (Kafr Qaddum) was moderately wounded by rubber-coated steel bullets; and 7 Israeli and international protesters were arrested (including a reporter for the New York Times). (PCHR 7/19; OCHA 7/20; PCHR 7/26)

Palestinians in Syria’s Yarmuk r.c. hold a 2d major demonstration to protest the killing of 13 PLA mbrs. from Nayrab r.c. on 7/12. This time, Syrian forces fire on the protesters, sparking clashes between the army and FSA elements inside the camp, marking the 1st time that Syrian forces have fired on an antigovernment rally by Palestinians since the civil unrest began in 2011. Details of casualties were not reported, but the incident is seen as ‘‘a significant tipping point’’ in Palestinian involvement in the Syrian civil war. The Local Coordination Comm. in Yarmuk calls for mass protests and a general strike to protest the killings. (NYT 7/14; MNA 7/22; NYT 8/4)

After several more hrs. of talks among Arafat, Barak, Clinton, Mubarak, King Abdallah, Annan, and Solana, Clinton announces that Arafat, Barak have agreed on steps toward halting the clashes. No details are released. The agmts. are oral and reportedly are vague, not giving an order of who is to take what step 1st. The sides agree that Clinton will appoint an international inquiry comm. to investigate the recent clashes. The U.S. for the 1st time acknowledges that Arafat "may not have control of everything" but still says it expects a cessation of violence "within hours." (AFP [Internet], MM, REU 10/17; ATL, Interfax, MENA, RL 10/17 in WNC 10/18; LAW, NYT, WP, WT, YA 10/18; JT, al-Quds, SA 10/18, Le Monde 10/19 in WNC 10/19; WJW 10/19; JP 10/20; MEI 10/27; MA 11/6 in WNC 11/9)

Meanwhile, Israeli-Palestinian clashes escalate. Nr. Itamar settlement, Jewish settlers open fire on a Palestinian family harvesting their olive crop, killing 1, wounding 3. A PA policeman is killed by IDF fire in Gaza. A 3d Palestinian dies of injuries received earlier. Palestinian gunmen fire at Gilo settlement, critically wounding an Israeli border policeman. IDF tanks fire on the neighboring Palestinian village of Bayt Jala in retaliation. Settlers fr. Itamar fire on Palestinian homes in neighboring Hawara village, attack a Palestinian ambulance driver. (ADM, LAW, MM, PCHR, REU 10/17; MENA 10/17, al-Quds 10/18, MA 10/19 in WNC 10/19; ADM, Bahrain Tribune [Internet], CSM, HA [Internet], LAW, NYT, WP, WT 10/18; WJW 10/19; HJ 10/24, MENA 10/25 in WNC 10/30)

Hamas's Shaykh Ahmad Yasin, West Bank Fatah leader Marwan Barghouti say their supporters will continue the uprising despite the Sharm agmts. The DFLP, Islamic Jihad, Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine issue similar statements. Palestinians in Bethlehem, Gaza City, Nablus, Qalqilya, Ramallah demonstrate against the Sharm mtg. 1,000s of Egyptian students in Cairo, 7,000 Palestinian refugees in Tripoli, Lebanon, hold similar demonstrations. A rally in solidarity with the Palestinian people is held in New York. (ADM, LAW, MM, PCHR, REU 10/17; RMC 10/17 in WNC 10/18; MENA 10/17, al-Quds 10/18, MA 10/19 in WNC 10/19; ADM, Bahrain Tribune [Internet], CSM, HA [Internet], LAW, NYT, WP, WT 10/18; WJW 10/19; HJ 10/24, MENA 10/25 in WNC 10/30)

Israeli govt. declares 1-week freeze on signing contracts for govt.-subsidized housing, including those affecting construction i the o.t. Freeze also is called on planning and early proceedings of new roads in o.t. About 3,000 units in early stages in o.t. are affected by the freeze, and govt. is still unsure about what to do with 4,000 completed units unattached to infrastructure, 12,000 in various stages of construction, and about 500 completed units that have been populated in the o.t. About 60% of these 16,500 scheduled units are in "political settlements." Financial incentives encouraging settlement will be ended. (Qol Yisra'el, HaAretz 7/16 in FBIS 7/16; MM, NYT, WP 7/17)

The Jerusalem Report states that 100 of the 142 settlements in the o.t. are "political settlements" according to PM Rabin, and can therefore expect significant cuts in govt. aid. These include all 16 settlements inthe Gaza Strip, as well as large W. Bank settlements of Qedumim, Elqana, and possibly Ariel. (Likud MK and Ariel mayor Ron Nahman claims freeze will have "opposite result" in his settlement, plans to increase its pop. from 11,000 to 20,000 in a year.) (Al Hamishmar 7/16 in FBIS 7/16; HaAretz 7/17 in MM 7/17)

Fateh gunman shoots, wounds 3 unarmed Hamas supporters in Rafah, Gaza. Hamas gunmen shoot, wound 1 unarmed Fateh supporter. Some 1,000 Fateh supporters then raid mosque in Yibna camp, Hamas gunmen inside open fire, wound 8. IDF troops impose curfew on Yibna. Two-week total for Fateh-Hamas violence is 1 dead, about 150 wounded. (MM, WP 7/17)

Palestinians throughout o.t. stage commercial strike called for by PLO-backed UNLU to protest seige at al-Najah University. Palestinian-Israeli leaders including all 6 MKs meet to discuss strategy, form delegation to meet with PM Rabin concerning al-Najah. Some 250 prominent Palestinians begin hunger strike in Nablus to protest siege. (MM 7/16, 17; Qol Yisra'el 7/16 in FBIS 7/17)

U.S. State Dept. calls for "restraint" from Israel in its handling of situation at al-Najah University, Nablus. IDF soldiers continue to surround campus, searching all students who leave; students refuse to leave until army withdraws. (WP 7/17)

Faisal Husseini announces Israeli defense establishment proposal to deport wanted men in al-Najah University for 3 years as step to lifting siege; Palestinians are drafting counter-proposal, and have sent a letter to PM Rabin to lift siege and curfew of Nablus. (Qol Yisra'el 7/16 in FBIS 7/17)

PLO representative calls on UN Secy. Gen. Butrus Ghali to provide int'l. protection for Palestinians in o.t., implementation of res. 681 to deal with siege at al-Najah University. (Radio Algiers Network 7/16 in FBIS 7/17)

PM Rabin agrees to meet with Pres. Mubarak in Cairo after U.S. Secy. of State Baker's upcoming visit; meeting would be first such visit since 1986. (WP 7/17)

Palestinian "rejectionist" groups - Hamas and the Palestine National Salvation Front (PFLP-GC, Fateh Uprising, Communist Revolutionary Party, and Sa'iqa) - meet in Damascus to discuss strategy of blocking the peace process and escalating the intifada. (MM 7/16)

King Hussein arrives in Damascus for visit with Pres. Asad. (Syrian Arab Republic Radio 7/16 in FBIS 7/16)

Islamic Resistance attacks Israeli, SLA roadblock in Kafr Huna, S. Lebanon. Israel overflies Arqub region, strengthens positions in al-Qantara, al-Tayyiba with armored vehicles. (Radio Lebanon 7/16 in FBIS 7/17)

Syrian VP 'Abd al-Halim Khaddam says Syria will not withdraw to eastern Lebanon in September, states that Taef accord requires withdrawal within 2 years of constitutional adoption of political reforms. (VOL 7/16 in FBIS 7/16)