The Palestine Chronology

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers set fire to agricultural lands between Turmus ‘Ayya and al-Mughayyir, damaging olive trees, and threw stones at vehicles, damaging 1. Israeli settlers also vandalized 55 grapevine saplings and damaged a water tank in al-Khader. Israeli forces shot and killed 1 Palestinian man and injured 1 other with live ammunition during a raid in Tubas; the man was said to have been buying bread after dawn prayers when he was shot in the head. Israeli forces also shot and injured 1 Palestinian protester and injured others with tear gas in Hebron. Elsewhere, Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in Beita, injuring 1 with live ammunition and 5 with tear gas. Israeli forces also violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in Bayt Dajan, injuring 1 with a baton round and 37 with tear gas. Meanwhile, Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in Kafr Qaddum, injuring 6 with baton rounds and others with tear gas. Israeli forces also uprooted 55 grapevine saplings and demolished 1 water well in al-Khader. 8 Palestinians were arrested, including 5 during late-night raids in Tubas and 3 at checkpoints near Nablus and al-Jib. (AJ, AP, MEE, MEMO, PCHR, REU, UNOCHA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 8/19; PCHR 8/25; UNOCHA 9/2)

Israel approved granting an additional 1,500 work permits for Palestinians in Gaza. (AP 8/19)

The Israeli central command froze the administrative detention of Khalil Awawdeh while he is in the hospital for treatment related to his 170 days of hunger strike. Awawdeh’s lawyer also petitioned the Israeli high court of justice to have him released from administrative detention. (HA, TOI 8/19; WAFA 8/20)

The foreign ministers of Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, and Sweden released a joint statement calling the Israeli raids on 7 Palestinian rights organizations “not acceptable,” expressing deep concern over the raids and reiterating that the countries have not seen evidence that justify the Israeli attacks on Palestinian civil society. (HA, JP, MEMO, WAFA, WAFA 8/20)

The Republic of Korea donated $1 million to UNRWA technical and vocational education and training programs in Jordan. (WAFA 8/19)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces delivered stop-work orders for 3 agricultural structures in al-Mughayyir. 8 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in Arrabah, Jaba‘, Faqqua, Qalqilya, Dheisheh refugee camp, Dura, and Bayt Awa. In East Jerusalem, 3 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in Isawiya and Kafr ‘Aqab. (WAFA, WAFA, 8/18; UNOCHA 8/19; PCHR 8/25; UNOCHA 9/2)

Israeli forces raided the offices of Union of Agricultural Work Committees, Al-Haq, Addameer, Bisan Research Center, Defense for Children International – Palestine, Union of Palestinian Women’s Committees, and Union of Health Work Committees. The raid was in response to Israel’s terrorist designations against the 7 organizations. The forces seized documents and equipment from some of the Palestinian rights organizations and sealed the doors of the offices. The UN Human Rights office condemned the Israeli raids and the EU called the Israeli allegations against the organizations unsubstantiated. The U.S. expressed concern about Israel’s raids, saying that Israel has not provided sufficient evidence to justify the terrorist designations against the organizations. In a show of solidarity, officials from the EU, Belgium, Chile, Denmark, Finland, France, Ireland, Italy, Mexico, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Spain, Sweden, and the UK visited the offices of Al-Haq, which had been forced open by Palestinians after the Israeli forces sealed the entrance. 6 of the rights organizations were deemed terrorist organizations by Israel in October 2021, and 1 was designated as such in 2020. Several EU countries have dismissed the Israeli claims after reviewing files submitted to the EU. (+972, AI, AJ, AP, AX, BBC, B’Tselem, GDN, HA, HA, HA, JP, MDW, MDW, MEE, MEMO, MEMO, NA, NBC, NYT, PCHR, REU, REU, TOI, UNOCHA, WP, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WP 8/18; AJ, HA, MDW, MEE, TOI, TOI, WAFA, WAFA 8/19; WAFA 8/20; B’Tselem 8/21; MDW, WAFA 8/22; MEE, MEMO 8/23; ABC 8/24 ALM 8/25; HA 8/29)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers assaulted Palestinians herding sheep in al-Juwaya in the Masafer Yatta area. Israeli settlers also attacked Palestinian homes in Hebron, causing damage and injuring 1 Palestinian. Elsewhere, Israeli settlers set up settlement outposts in al-Buwairah. Israeli forces shot and injured 2 Palestinians with live ammunition during a protest against a late-night raid in al-Bireh. 14 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in Birzeit, al-Bireh, al-Mughayyir, Ramallah al-Tahta, Deir Abu Mash’al, Huwwara, and al-Yamun. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire at Palestinian agricultural lands east of Abasan; no injuries were reported. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 7/21; WAFA 7/22; PCHR 7/28; UNOCHA 8/5)

The Israeli high court of justice postponed the eviction of a Palestinian family living in Silwan until further hearings have been made. (HA 7/22)

Israeli forces fired missiles from the occupied Golan Heights at Damascus, killing 8 people, including 3 Syrian soldiers, and wounding 7 others. (AP 7/21; AJ, F24, HA, TOI, WP 7/22)

Israel’s supreme court ruled that Israel is allowed to strip its citizens of their citizenship if they are convicted of treason, terrorism, or espionage. (HA, REU, WAFA 7/21; MDW 7/23; MEE 7/25)

Norway joined Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Holland, Spain, and Sweden in saying it had dismissed Israeli claims that 6 Palestinian rights organizations are terrorist organizations, citing insufficient evidence. Norway’s foreign minister Anniken Huitfeldt said she had raised concerns about the lack of evidence during her visit to Israel in March. Norway directly or indirectly funds Al-Haq, the Union of Agricultural Work Committees, and Defense for Children International – Palestine. (HA 7/21)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers vandalized 450 olive, plum, grape, and almond trees near Turmus ‘Ayya. 7 Palestinians were arrested, including 5 returning to the West Bank from Jerusalem at the Qalandia checkpoint, 1 crossing from the West Bank to Jordan via the Allenby Bridge, and 1 while working his land in Idhna. (WAFA, WAFA 7/12; PCHR 7/21; UNOCHA 7/22)

Haaretz reported that the World Zionist Organization’s settlement division was finalizing plans to invest $8.5 million to connect settlement outposts in the West Bank to the Israeli electrical grid and preparing plans to have the outposts retroactively authorized by the Israeli government. (HA 7/12)

Israeli defense minister Benny Gantz approved 5,500 Palestinians to be registered with the Palestinian population registry and increased Gaza merchant permits for commerce in Israel from 1,500 to 15,000. Defense Minister Gantz also gave final approval for construction in Hizma and Harmaleh and 1st level approval for construction in Haris, Kisan, and Battir. Additionally, Israel said it would open a new crossing from Israel to the northern part of the West Bank to ease access to Jenin and delayed a meeting to expand Israeli settlements in East Jerusalem. The moves were described by Israel as a result of a meeting between Gantz and PA president Mahmoud Abbas last week and comes 1 day before U.S. president Joe Biden will arrive in Israel for a 4-day tour of Israel, Palestine, and Saudi Arabia. (AP, HA, WAFA 7/12)

4 members of the U.S. senate Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Patrick Leahy (D-VT), Chris Murphy (D-CT), and Dick Durban (D-IL), wrote a letter to U.S. secretary of state Antony Blinken saying that the U.S. review of the evidence into the killing of Palestinian American journalist Shireen Abu Akleh “hardly constitutes an independent investigation into the overall circumstances of her killing.” In a separate letter, U.S. senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Bob Menendez (D-NJ) called on the Biden administration to provide a senior-level classified briefing on the investigation details and the administration’s plan for accountability. (ALM, HA 7/12; MEE, WAFA 7/13)

Citing insufficient evidence, the foreign ministries of Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Holland, Spain, and Sweden issued a joint statement saying that the countries have decided to dismiss Israeli claims that 6 Palestinian rights organizations are linked to terrorism and will continue funding them. The rights organizations were designated terrorist organizations by Defense Minister Gantz in October 2021. (AP, HA, MEE, REU, WAFA, WAFA 7/12; MDW 7/15)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers threw stones at 1 Palestinian vehicle driving near the Homesh settlement outpost, injuring 1 and damaging the car. Thousands of Palestinians partook in a funeral ceremony in Ramallah for Al Jazeera journalist Shireen Abu Akleh, who was killed by Israeli forces on 5/11 in Jenin refugee camp. PA president Mahmoud Abbas spoke at the ceremony and awarded her the Al-Quds star of honor. Abu Akleh will be buried in East Jerusalem on 5/13. Israeli forces prevented Palestinians in the funeral procession from accompanying her casket through the Qalandia checkpoint from Ramallah to East Jerusalem. Israeli forces also demolished a water collection pond used for irrigation in Marj Na‘aj. 7 Palestinians were arrested, including 5 during a late-night raid in Hebron, Rumana, Qabatiya, and Burqin, and 2 at flying checkpoints in Hebron and Tulkarm. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces raided a house in Bayt Hanina, where friends and family of Abu Akleh were holding a memorial ceremony for her; Israeli forces confiscated Palestinian flags. Israeli police also raided Abu Akleh’s house on 5/11, confiscating Palestinian flags. 5 Palestinians were arrested during raids. (AJ, AJ, AP, CNN, GDN, HA, MEE, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 5/12; WAFA 5/13; PCHR 5/19; UNOCHA 6/4)

Israel’s higher planning council approved 4,427 new settlement housing units in the West Bank. 2,791 received final approval, while 1,636 were deposited for public comment before final approval. Among the new housing units are the retroactive legalization of the Mitzpeh Dani and Givat Oz VeGaon settlement outposts and expansion of the settlements of Negohot, Shvut Rachel, Dolev, Betar Ilit, and Kiryat Arba. According to Haaretz, the government’s meeting to approve the settlements was a condition by Yamina MK Nir Orbach to remain in the fragile government coalition. UN Middle East envoy Tor Wennesland condemned the settlement expansions. On 5/13, 15 European countries urged Israel to reverse its decision, including France, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, Poland, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Spain, and Sweden. (PCN 5/9; ABC, AJ, AP, GDN, HA, JP, MEE, MEMO, REU, TOI, WAFA 5/12; AJ, ALM, F24, REU, WAFA, WAFA 5/13)

Ecuadorian president Guillermo Lasso met with Israeli president Isaac Herzog in Jerusalem, saying he will open a representative office in Jerusalem and support Israel in votes at the UN. President Lasso also met with prime minister Naftali Bennett and foreign minister Yair Lapid. (HA 5/12)

The New York Times reported that the FBI stated in a 2018 letter to the Israeli government that it wanted to use NSO Group’s Pegasus spyware “for the collection of data from mobile devices for the prevention and investigation of crimes and terrorism” before purchasing the spyware later the same year. (NYT 5/12)

In the West Bank, an Israeli settler rammed by car 1 Palestinian man walking at the Beit Sira checkpoint, killing the man; it was unclear whether the settler rammed the man intentionally. Israeli settlers also tried to attack a car repair shop in Bazariya, but were repelled by Palestinians. Israeli forces shot and killed 1 Palestinian man during a late-night raid in Balata refugee camp; Israel claimed the man had opened fire at Israeli soldiers raiding the camp; no Israelis were injured. Israeli forces also seized 1 excavator in Dura. 8 Palestinian minors were killed in a traffic accident in the Jordan Valley; PA president Mahmoud Abbas declared a day of national mourning after the accident. 21 Palestinians were arrested in Ramallah, Nablus, Hebron, al-Far‘a refugee camp, and Tulkarm; during the raid in al-Far‘a refugee camp, Israeli forces injured 1 Palestinian with a rubber-coated bullet and others with tear gas. In East Jerusalem, 2 Palestinians were arrested. Off the coast of Gaza, Israeli naval forces opened fire at Palestinian fishermen within 6 nautical miles northwest of Rafah; no injuries were reported. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire at agricultural lands east of Dayr al-Balah and Maghazi; no injuries were reported. (AJ, AP, AP, HA, HA, MEE, MEMO, REU, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 1/6; PCHR 1/13)

Israeli deputy economy minister Yair Golan from the Meretz party called Israeli settler attacks on Palestinians a pogrom, in relation to attacks near at the Homesh settlement outpost. Deputy Economy Minister Golan was condemned by many Israeli politicians for his comments, and for calling the settlers “subhuman,” including by Prime Minister Naftali Bennett who said Golan’s remarks were “bordering blood libel” and that “[s]ettlement activity in the West Bank represents modern-day pioneering.” (AP, HA, TOI 1/6; HA, MEMO 1/7; HA, MEMO 1/8)

The Dutch government announced that it will no longer provide funding to the Union of Agricultural Work Committees (UAWC). Israel put UAWC, along with 5 other Palestinian rights organizations, on its terror list on 10/22/2021, claiming that the organizations are linked to the PFLP. The international community, including the EU, has criticized the terror designations for the organizations, saying Israel have not provided any evidence to support its claims. The Dutch government’s decision follows an external review predating the Israeli terror designation, which found that UAWC employees have personal ties to members of the PFLP, but that no funding has been used for PFLP purposes and that there are no organizational links between the PFLP and UAWC. The PA condemned the Netherlands’ decision to end funding, calling it pandering to anti-Palestinian sentiments. (AJ, ALM, AP, MEE, MEMO, WAFA, WAFA 1/6; AJ, WAFA 1/10; MEMO 1/11)

The Israeli military attorney told Adalah that it would not hand over the alleged evidence against the 6 rights organizations deemed terrorists by Israel, saying that the evidence is classified. (Adalah, WAFA 1/6)

Israeli Walla News reported that Israel’s director of European affairs at the foreign ministry, Aliza Bin Noun, shouted at European diplomats during a meeting where the Europeans complained about Israeli plans to build new settlements in East Jerusalem and the West Bank. (MEE, MEMO 1/7)

A U.S. district judge in New York dismissed a lawsuit brought against the PLO and PA for the stabbing of 1 American man in an Israeli settlement in the West Bank in 2018. The judge called the U.S. law the Anti-Terrorism Clarification Act of 2018, that allows individuals to sue the PLO and the PA, unconstitutional. (REU 1/7; WAFA 1/8)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces demolished 1 house—displacing 13—and a water well in Hebron, razed 100 dunams (25 acres) of agricultural lands in Masafer Yatta, and demolished 3 agricultural structures in Nahalin. In East Jerusalem, Israeli settlers led by Jerusalem deputy mayor Aryeh King delivered an eviction notice to the Salem family in Sheikh Jarrah, ordering the family to leave their home of 70 years before 12/21. The Israeli municipality razed agricultural lands and demolished retaining walls in Jabel Mukaber. (WAFA, WAFA 12/7; MEMO 12/8; PCHR 12/16)

A delegation of Jordanian ministers, including for trade, agriculture, transportation, communication, and energy met with their PA counterparts in Ramallah to discuss enhancing trade and cooperation. (WAFA 12/7)

In Syria, Israeli fighter jets fired missiles at the port of Latakia, causing damage but no injuries. (AJ, HA, HA, MEMO 12/7; MEMO, MEMO 12/8)

An appeals court in the Netherlands ruled that Israeli defense minister Benny Gantz cannot be tried in Dutch courts for the 2014 air strike in Gaza that killed 6 relatives of a Dutch citizen. The Dutch citizen who was born in Gaza filled a lawsuit against Benny Gantz, chief of staff of the Israeli army at the time of the attacks. (HA, MEMO, REU 12/7; MDW 12/8)

Defense Minister Gantz announced that Israel had completed an underground barrier around Gaza, started in 2016. The barrier project also includes above-ground walls, a naval barrier, and a radar system. (AJ, MEE, MEMO, REU 12/7; MEMO 12/8; MEE 12/11)

A freedom of information request filed by Israeli human rights organization Bimkom revealed that 797 demolition orders were delivered in Area C during 2020, the highest in 5 years. In the same period, 24 construction permits were granted out of 2,550 requests. (HA 12/7)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces shot and injured 1 Palestinian man trying to enter Israel for work by the separation wall near al-Yamun. Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinian protesters near Dura and in al-Arroub refugee camp, causing tear-gas related injuries. Elsewhere, Israeli forces delivered demolition orders for 2 houses in Abu Nawwar and a stop-work order for a house in Nahalin. 3 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in Qalqilya and Ras al-Far‘a. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 10/28; PCHR 11/4)

PA president Mahmoud Abbas met with Swiss president Guy Parmelin in Ramallah. (WAFA 10/28)

New York state comptroller Thomas DiNapoli said that a review of Unilever had found that its subsidiary Ben & Jerry’s is engaged in BDS activity, leading the state’s pension fund to divest from Unilever due to New York’s anti-BDS law. Ben & Jerry’s announced on 7/19 that it would no longer sell its ice cream in Israeli settlements and that it would not renew its licensing agreement with an Israeli company to produce Ben & Jerry’s ice cream. Arizona, New Jersey, and Florida have also divested from Ben & Jerry’s since the announcement. The New York state pension fund is said to have $111 million in investments in Unilever. (REU 10/28; NYP 10/29; MEMO 11/1)

U.S. house democrat Betty McCollum (D-MN) introduced a resolution condemning Israel’s terror designation of 6 Palestinian rights groups. The resolution calls the decision repressive and anti-democratic. The resolution was cosponsored by representatives Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY), Rashida Tlaib (D-MI), Ilhan Omar (D-MN), Ayanna Pressley (D-MA), Cori Bush (D-MO), Chuy García (D-IL), Marie Newman (D-IL), Raúl Grijalva (D-AZ), and André Carson (D-IN). (TOI 10/28; MEMO 10/29)

The EU released a statement saying that it wants to see evidence from Israel that the 6 Palestinian rights groups that were designated terrorist organizations on 10/22 are in fact involved in terrorism. The EU noted that Israel in the past has misled the EU in saying it was funding terrorist-supporting rights groups. 12 European countries, including Germany, Denmark, Belgium, Finland, France, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Spain, Sweden, and Norway released a joint statement, calling on Israel to reverse its decision from 10/27 to advance plans for new Israeli settlement units in the West Bank. Russia said in a tweet that it was disappointed by Israel’s decision. The UK urged Israel to reverse its decisions from 10/24 and 10/27 to expand settlements. (AJ, ALM, CNN, HA, HA, MEMO, MEMO, REU, TOI, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 10/28; WAFA 10/29)

The president of the Democratic Republic of the Congo told Israeli prime minister Naftali Bennett that he intends for his country to open an economic diplomatic mission in Jerusalem during a meeting. (JP, MEMO 10/28)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces shot and killed 1 Palestinian man and injured 1 other near Kafr Haris. According to the Israeli military, the 2 had thrown a Molotov cocktail at the Israeli forces; the governor of Salfit said that the 2 had done nothing wrong and were hanging out with friends when they were attacked. During the funeral procession for the deceased Palestinian man, Israeli forces and Palestinians clashed in Kafr Haris; 1 Palestinian was hospitalized after being hit by a rubber-coated bullet to the neck. Elsewhere, Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in Kafr Qaddum and Asira; 2 people were injured by sound bomb canisters in Asira, leading to fractures and an amputation of 1 finger; in Kafr Qaddum, 1 Palestinian was hit by a rubber-coated bullet; tear-gas related injuries were also reported. Israeli forces also delivered stop-work orders for 2 homes under construction in al-Khadir. 2 Israeli soldiers were injured by Israeli settlers while dismantling an Israeli settlement outpost near the Yitzhar settlement. 8 Palestinians were arrested, including 5 during late-night raids in and around Yatta, Hebron, and Jalazun refugee camp; and 3 at checkpoints near Nablus and Ramallah. In East Jerusalem, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre was closed to curb the spread of COVID-19; no date was set for its reopening. 1 Palestinian was arrested during a house raid in the Old City. Off the coast of Gaza, Israeli naval forces opened fire on Palestinian fishermen; no injuries were reported. (HA, HA, REU, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 7/10; PCHR 7/16)

According to the Saudi Arabian news channel al-Arabiya, 1 senior member of Hamas, Mohammed Omar Abu Ajwa, defected and fled to Israel for which he allegedly had been spying on Hamas for more than 10 years. Hamas denied al-Arabiya’s report. (HA 7/12; HA 7/14)

In a letter to the EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell, the foreign ministers of Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Holland, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Malta, Portugal, and Sweden demanded that he accelerate the process of formulating possible responses to Israel annexation. The 1st request for Foreign Policy Chief Borrell to do so was made on 15 May at an unofficial meeting. (HA 7/14)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces shot and injured a Palestinian near the West Bank separation barrier southwest of Jenin. In a separate incident, Israeli forces opened fire on Palestinians near a checkpoint by the West Bank separation barrier north by Nazlat Issa, causing 5 Palestinians to be hospitalized with gun wounds and others to suffer tear-gas related injuries. A raid by Israeli forces near Ramallah led to clashes with Palestinians; 2 Palestinians were injured by rubber-coated bullets. Israeli settlers began fencing off a piece of Palestinian-owned land in Burin. 11 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in and around Ramallah, Bethlehem, Nablus, and Jenin. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrested 2 Palestinians: 1 during a late-night raid in Issawiyya and 1 employee of the Islamic Waqf at the Haram al-Sharif compound. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA , WAFA, WAFA 12/10; PCHR 12/12)

The PA sent a request to Israel to allow Palestinians in East Jerusalem to be able to partake in the planned Palestinian parliamentary and presidential elections. Israeli officials said that the Israeli security cabinet would decide on the request. (HA 12/10)

The Netherlands informed the UNRWA that it will resume funding of the agency after suspending its funding on 31 July due to allegations of misconduct in UNRWA leadership. (WAFA 12/10)

Japan signed a contract to fund construction of hearing and speech units at the Maghazi Community Rehabilitation Society in Gaza amounting to $84,191. The EU contributed with $11 million to support PA payments of social allowances to vulnerable families in Gaza and the West Bank. (WAFA, WAFA 12/10)

In the West Bank, 2 Palestinian families were notified that Israel intend to seize 4 dunums of their land in Jaba‘ for construction of a parking lot for Israeli military vehicles. A Palestinian family from Ya‘bad accused Israeli soldiers of stealing money and jewelry from their house during a late-night raid. Israeli forces also demolished 2 Palestinian-owned water tanks near Tubas and seized a cement mixer near Salfit. 12 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in and around Ramallah, Nablus, Jericho, and Hebron. In East Jerusalem, 2 Palestinians were detained in al-Aqsa Mosque during prayers; both were released after 5 hours of interrogation and banned from entering the mosque for 2 weeks. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 12/3; PCHR 12/5)

During a visit by the Irish minister of foreign affairs Simon Coveney to Israel, Gaza, and the West Bank, the ministry announced that Ireland was funding a $8.8 million project for construction of solar panels in Gaza in partnership with the French Development Agency. Foreign Affairs Minister Coveney met with PA prime minister Mahmoud Abbas in Ramallah during his visit. (HA, WAFA 12/3)

In France, the French parliament passed a resolution to combat anti-Semitism that included anti-Zionism and criticism of Israel. The resolution adopted the language of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s working definition of anti-Semitism which equates some criticism of Israel as anti-Semitic. The resolution was passed despite a petition signed by 129 Jewish and Israeli scholars warning the French parliament about equating anti-Zionism with anti-Semitism. (HA 9/4)

At the UN, 5 resolutions pertaining to Israel and Palestine passed in the General Assembly. 13 countries changed their vote, compared to previous years, on the resolution in support of the Division for Palestinian Rights of the Secretariat. The 13 countries that previously abstained on the yearly vote were Germany, the Czech Republic, Austria, Bulgaria, Denmark, Estonia, Greece, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Romania, Slovakia, Brazil, and Colombia. The vote on that resolution passed 83 to 23, with 54 abstentions. (TOI 12/4; HA 12/5)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces demolished a shack housing 11 people east of Yatta. 4 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in and around Bayt Umar, al-Shuyukh, and Dahaysha refugee camp. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrested PA governor of Jerusalem Adnan Ghaith during a house raid in Silwan. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire on Palestinian farmland on 2 separate occasions east of Khuza‘a and Khan Yunis; no injuries were reported. Off the coast of Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire on Palestinian fishermen on 2 separate occasions off the shore of Bayt Lahiya; no injuries were reported. (WAFA, WAFA 11/21; PCHR 11/28)

Israel’s attorney general Avichai Mendelblit announced that Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu would be charged with bribery, fraud, and breach of trust in the corruption cases 1000, 2000, and 4000. (HA, HA, NYT 11/21; CNN 11/22)

107 members of U.S. congress signed a letter sent to Secretary of State Mike Pompeo criticizing the decision to no longer consider Israeli settlements illegal under international law, announced on 11/18. The letter was initiated by Andy Levin (D-MI) and expressed “strong disagreement with the State Department’s decision to reverse decades of bipartisan U.S. policy on Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank.” The members of congress further warned that the U.S. administration’s policies have “discredited the United States as an honest broker between Israel and the Palestinian Authority.” (HA 11/23)

The Netherlands announced that it will stop paying $1.5 million yearly in aid to the PA because of the stipends the PA pays to families of Palestinian prisoners and families of Palestinians killed by Israel. Israel frames these payments as “terrorist salaries.” The head of the Palestinian Prisoners’ Association said, “From a Palestinian perspective, the payments are meant to assist the families of Palestinians who are imprisoned by Israel for various political charges.” Pro-Israel lobbies in the Netherlands have tried to persuade the country from contributing to the PA. (AJ, HA 11/21)

The United Arab Emirates announced a new $12.5 million contribution to UNRWA. (WAFA 11/21)

In the West Bank, students from Birzeit University protested Israel’s rejection of visa renewals for 7 Birzeit University professors. 1 professor at Birzeit University was released from Israeli custody after being detained for 16 days. Israeli forces critically injured 1 Palestinian child in al-Mazra‘a near Ramallah. In Abu Dis, 1 Palestinian was shot in the leg and admitted to a hospital in Ramallah. In Tubas, several Palestinians suffered from tear gas inhalation after clashes with Israeli forces. In ‘Ayn Bus near Nablus, Israeli settlers threw stones at Palestinian-owned homes and tried to set vehicles on fire; Israeli forces subsequently injured 2 Palestinians using rubber-coated bullets as they attempted to fend off the Israeli settlers. 1 Palestinian was arrested at a flying checkpoint near Nablus. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 9/17; MEMO 9/18; PCHR 9/19)

The EU issued a statement condemning the Israeli government’s approval of a new settlement in the Jordan Valley, reiterating that it considers all settlements in East Jerusalem and the West Bank illegal under international law. (EU 9/17; WAFA 9/18)

In the Netherlands, a court in The Hague held a hearing to consider the admissibility of a lawsuit filed by a Dutch-Palestinian against former IDF chief of staff Benny Gantz and former Israeli Air Force commander Amir Eichel for their responsibility in the death of 6 of his family members during the 2014 Gaza bombings. (WAFA 9/17)

In the West Bank, 2 Palestinians were injured by Israeli forces during the weekly anti-settlement protest in Kafr Qaddum. Israeli forces also violently dispersed a protest in Sur al-Bahir, injuring at least 1 Palestinian. 3 Palestinians were arrested during daytime raids in and around Nablus and Jenin. In Gaza, Israeli forces injured 49 Palestinians, including 24 with live ammunition during the Great March of Return protests. 1 Palestinian was arrested after crossing the Gaza fence. (HA, WAFA, WAFA 8/2; PCHR 8/8)

Belgium suspended its contributions to the UNRWA after leaked documents alleged misconduct for the top management of the organization. The Netherlands and Switzerland suspended their contributions on 7/31. (AJ 8/2)

In the West Bank, 13 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in and around Hebron, Tulkarm, Nablus, Jenin, and Ramallah. In East Jerusalem, a Fatah official was arrested in Issawiyya during a late-night raid. Israeli forces also summoned a 6-year-old boy and his father for interrogation after the boy allegedly threw a juice box toward an Israeli police vehicle. Off the coast of Gaza, Israeli naval forces opened fire and used water cannons on Palestinian fishermen. In Israel, the Palestinian town Jisr al-Zarqa was raided by Jewish extremists who wrote hate graffiti on a house and punctured tires on 21 vehicles. (HA, WAFA 7/31; PCHR 8/1)

Israel’s security cabinet approved construction permits for 715 housing units for Palestinians in Area C for the first time since 2016 and approved 6,000 Israeli settlement units. (HA, 7/30; AJ, NYT 7/31)

After a confidential report was leaked alleging misconduct by the top management of the UNRWA on 7/29, Switzerland and the Netherlands suspended their funding to the UNRWA. (HA 8/1)

Approximately 8,000 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, Jabaliya refugee camp, and Gaza City; 2 Palestinian minors are killed and at least 17 are injured. This brings the death toll stemming from the Great March of Return to 203. Also along Gaza’s border, IDF troops open fire on Palestinian farmers working near Khan Yunis, causing no damage or injuries. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Jabaliya refugee camp, causing no damage or injuries. In the West Bank, after Israeli settlers confront Palestinian farmers working outside Bayt Fajjar near Bethlehem, IDF troops violently disperse the Palestinians with tear gas; no serious injuries are reported. Israeli settlers open fire on Palestinians outside al-Mughayyir near Ramallah; there are no reports of serious injuries. Near Hebron, settlers claim ownership of a Palestinian home outside al-Arub refugee camp, sparking a violent confrontation between their IDF escort and the Palestinian family that lives there; 1 Palestinian is arrested. Meanwhile, IDF troops conduct raids in al-Bireh, damaging a mosque and sparking clashes with stone-throwing Palestinians; 2 Palestinians are injured. They also arrest 1 Palestinian during a raid near Hebron; and patrol near Hebron and Ramallah. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces remove a Palestinian flag and the photo of a Palestinian prisoner from a mosque in Issawiyya. A Palestinian demolishes his own home in Jabal Mukabir in order to avoid paying Israeli demolition fees. (EI, HA, MNA, MNA, MNA, TOI, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 2/8; MNA, MNA 2/9; PCHR 2/14)

A Palestinian prisoner in Israel is found dead in his cell, according to the Palestinian Prisoner’s Society. The circumstances surrounding his death are unclear. (WAFA 2/8)

PLO secretary general Saeb Erakat says that Polish officials recently invited the Palestinians to attend the upcoming security conference in Warsaw, where U.S. officials are reportedly set to unveil some details about their long-awaited Palestinian-Israeli peace plan. “Our position remains clear,” he says. “We are not going to attend this conference and reiterate that we have not mandated anyone to talk on behalf of Palestine.” (TOI 2/8; MNA 2/10)

A senior Dutch official says that his government has decided to allow Palestinians living in the Netherlands to register the West Bank or Gaza as their birthplace on official documents. “The Dutch viewpoint that Israel has no sovereignty over these areas,” he says. (HA 2/8; YA 2/11)

Late at night in Gaza, an armed group fires a rocket into s. Israel nr. Ashqelon, causing no damage. The IAF then launches air strikes on 2 “terrorist infrastructure” targets in c. and n. Gaza, according to the IDF; 1 Palestinian woman is lightly injured. Earlier in the day, Dutch FM Bert Koenders visits Gaza to inaugurate a new Dutch scanning machine donated to Israel for use at the Kerem Shalom border crossing. He says the scanner will allow for an increase in the amount of materials that can be shipped into Gaza for reconstruction purposes. Koenders also tours several UNRWA sites throughout Gaza. In the West Bank, IDF troops arrest a Palestinian woman after she stabs and lightly injures an Israeli soldier in n. Ramallah. Later, they raid her home nr. Ramallah. The IDF patrols in 2 villages nr. Hebron and 1 nr. Ramallah during the day. Along the Syria-Israel border, IDF troops raid the al-Shahar r.c., which houses internally displaced Syrians in the UN-administered buffer zone. They evacuate the camp and demolish several tents. (HA, MNA 7/15; HA, MNA, TOI, YA 7/16; AP 7/17; EI 7/20; PCHR 7/30)

U.S. national security advisor Susan Rice says that the U.S. is looking forward to discussing with Israel possible ways of increasing Israeli security, following the P5+1’s deal with Iran on 7/14. (JP, JTA, REU 7/16)

Nr. Gaza, Israeli military radar spots a small drone flying from Gaza across the border into Israel. IAF jets are deployed to monitor its activity, then the drone falls to the ground on the Israeli side of the border fence. Hamas later claims responsibility. IDF troops on the border e. of Jabaliya open fire on agricultural lands along the border fence, causing no injuries. After its opening on 6/23, Egyptian authorities close the Rafah border crossing. In the West Bank, the IDF conducts late-night house searches and raids in al-‘Arub r.c. nr. Hebron and 1 village nr. Ramallah, arresting 3 Palestinians; patrols during the day in 1 village nr. Hebron. Israeli settlers destroy a water well nr. Hebron. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces detain 6 Palestinian women, including 1 journalist, at Haram al-Sharif; conduct late-night raids and house searches in Bayt Hanina, Ras al-Amud, and al-Khalla, arresting 5 Palestinians. (HA, MNA, TOI, YA 6/25; PCHR 7/2)

In The Hague, PA FM Riyad al-Maliki presents an extensive file of case material to the International Criminal Court (ICC) supporting the Palestinians’ allegations that Israelis are responsible for 23 criminal counts in the oPt. PA amb. to the Netherlands Nabil Abu Zneid says, “It will take the ICC a long time to take action, possibly 5–10 years as this is 1 out of 100 steps.” (HA, NYT, YA 6/24; AFP, MNA, MDW, REU, TOI 6/25)

The Freedom Flotilla III sets sail for Gaza today from Greece, with 4 ships laden with humanitarian supplies. Last-minute repairs were made to 1 ship after “unknown forces” damaged the propeller in a way “only professionals could do,” Israeli-born activist Dror Feiler reported. Israeli MK Ghattas (Joint List) joins the activists today. (HA, JP, MNA, TOI 6/25; MNA, YA 6/26)

In the West Bank,Israeli soldiers open fire on a Palestinian man nr. a checkpoint s. of Nablus late at night, critically injuring him.Israeli forces demolish around 25 structures owned by Palestinian bedouin in a village nr. Tubas and deliver stop-work notices to 3 Palestinian-owned buildings in a village nr. Hebron. The IDF conducts a raid in Ramallah, arresting a suspect in the stabbing of 2 Israeli border police guards on 12/26. Palestinian residents of Turmus ‘Ayya nr. Ramallah discover that Israeli settlers uprooted around 5,000 olive trees planted nearby in the past week. In East Jerusalem, Palestinians throw 3 Molotov cocktails at an Israeli settler’s home in Ras al-Amud, causing damage, and Israeli police arrive to search for the perpetrators. Israeli security forces accompany a group of right-wing Jewish activists on a tour of Haram al-Sharif, then arrest 5 Palestinian women who verbally confront the activists. (MNA, WAFA 1/1; HA, MNA, TOI, YA 1/2; OCHA 1/15)

PA Pres. Abbas files a request with the Dutch embassy, asking the ICC to open investigations into suspected war crimes committed in the oPt since 6/2013. In response to the PA’s accession to the ICC, the Israeli cabinet decides to freeze the transfer of NIS 500 m. (around $127.6 m.) in tax revenues to the PA, half of the revenues collected on behalf of the PA in 12/2014, as well as future transfers. (HA, MDW 1/1; AP 1/2; HA 1/3; WAFA 1/4; AFP 1/22)

In the Gaza Strip, IDF troops open fire on farmers working on agricultural lands nr. Khan Yunis, causing no casualties. In the West Bank, the IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 1 village nr. Qalqilya in the afternoon, and in 2 villages nr. Qalqilya and Salfit at night; patrols in 1 village nr. Jenin in the morning, in 3 villages nr. Qalqilya and al-Fawar r.c. nr. Hebron in the afternoon, and in Salfit, al-‘Arub r.c. nr. Hebron and 1 village nr. Qalqilya at night. (PCHR 12/12)

Dutch PM Mark Rutte cancels a ceremony intended to inaugurate a new container scanner donated by his govt. for Israel’s border with the Gaza Strip due to the Israeli authorities’ opposition to using the machine for resuming exports from Gaza to the West Bank. Meanwhile, the WHO releases a statement expressing concern over a humanitarian health crisis in the Gaza Strip due to a shortage in basic supplies. Over 30% of medicines and 50% of medical disposables are out of stock in Gaza. Also, the large generators used to power hospitals during 14-hour power cuts have frequent breakdowns. (HA, MNA 12/8)

UN inspectors have begun their visit to the Arak heavy water production plant. Meanwhile, Pres. Ruhani tells parliament that the success of the talks has already boosted the country’s economy, though he gives no specific figures. (AP 12/8)

In the West Bank, a Palestinian dies in the hospital of wounds sustained by IDF fire in Jenin r.c. during a raid on the camp on 8/20. The IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 1 village nr. Hebron at night, and patrols in al-Fawar r.c. nr. Hebron, Qalqilya and 1 nearby village at night. (PCHR 9/5)

U.S. Pres. Obama decides to seek the backing of Congress for any attack on Syria, a significant development which he announces in the White House Rose Garden. Such a step delays a potentially imminent strike and has potential to prevent it altogether. Secy. of State John Kerry assures leaders of the Syrian opposition and Saudi Arabia FM Prince Saud al-Faisal that Pres. Obama remains determined to hold the Asad regime to account. Meanwhile, UN chemical weapons experts leave Syria for Lebanon and then fly back to Rotterdam. The team conducted 4 days of inspections and return to the Netherlands with samples for testing. (AP, NYT, REU, WSJ 31/8)

In the Gaza Strip, IDF troops open fire from the border and wound a Palestinian farmer working close to the fence nr. Jabaliya r.c. In the West Bank, the IDF patrols in 1 village nr. Tulkarm in the afternoon, and in 1 village 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), 1 village nr. Qalqilya (Kafr Qaddum), and 1 village nr. Bethlehem (al-Ma‘sara). There are no serious injuries, except in Bil‘in, where 2 are struck by tear gas canisters. (MNA 8/30; PCHR 9/5)

Israel’s Central Bureau of Statistics publishes data showing that the number of settler housing starts in the West Bank rose by 141.5% in the 1st half of 2013, compared to the same period in 2012. (JP 8/30)

The Obama administration intensifies its public case for military action against Syria with the release of what it presents as evidence that the Syrian govt. has used chemical weapons against civilians on a number of occasions, including the attack last week. Pres. Obama and Secy. of State Kerry make separate statements condemning the Asad regime but committing the U.S. to only a limited retaliatory action. Meanwhile, according to an unnamed State Dept. official, Kerry speaks with the FMs of Britain, Egypt, Germany, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. (AP, REU 8/30)

Thousands of supporters of ousted pres. Morsi march in Cairo and other cities across Egypt in protest at the military coup. According to a security source, the day’s protests leave 6 dead and more than 50 injured. (REU 8/30)

The Israeli governmentt announces it will confiscate the VAT tax revenues it has collected for the PA during 11/2012, and use the NIS 460 m. of funds to offset the PA’s debt to Israel’s Electric Corporation. On 11/11, Israel’s fin. min. Yuval Steinitz had warned of such a measure in response to the UN bid. (HA 12/2)

The Israeli newspaper Ha’Aretz reports that 5 senior European ambassadors—from Britain, France, the EU, Germany, and Holland—have communicated strong opposition to Israel’s 11/30 plan to expand settlements and develop the E1 area outside of East Jerusalem. An anonymous British diplomat tells the paper that ‘‘London is furious with the decision over the E1 corridor.’’ UN secy.-gen. Ban Ki-moon describes Israel’s plan as an ‘‘almost fatal blow’’ to prospects for peace. Israeli PM Netanyahu dismisses the international criticism at the weekly cabinet meeting, saying that Israel ‘‘will carry on building in Jerusalem and in all the places that are on the map of Israel’s strategic interests.’’ (AFP, HA, REU 12/2)

Addressing 1,000s of Palestinians in Ramallah on his return from the UN, Palestinian pres. Abbas says he will resume national reconciliation efforts soon. Jamal Ubeid, a mbr. of Fatah’s High Comm. in Gaza, announces that Hamas will allow 20 senior Fatah mbrs. who fled the Gaza Strip in 2007, when Hamas took over, to return. (AFP, MNA 12/2)

In the West Bank, Jewish settlers s. of Hebron set fire to a Palestinianowned car and vandalize a Palestinian house. The IDF patrols in Jenin, 2 villages nr. Qalqilya, and 1 village each nr. Jericho and Tulkarm at night; conducts house searches and arrest raids in Tulkarm in the afternoon, and in 1 village nr. Salfit at night. (PCHR 12/6)

Syrian rebels open fire on a Lebanese border patrol approaching the border, the 1st such clash between the 2 parties. There were no casualties. (REU 12/2)

PA pres. Mahmud Abbas confirms that the bid for non-member observer state at the UN will be presented on 11/29. (BBC 11/12)

The EU, the Netherlands, and Sweden donate $24 mi. to the PA to help pay 10/2011 salaries and pensions. (MNA 11/12)

Hamas and Islamic Jihad declare a cease-fire in Gaza, after reported mediation by Egyptian intelligence officials. Despite the cease-fire, Palestinian fighters fire 6 rockets from Gaza into Israel, causing no injuries—but this marks a huge reduction from the estimated 100 projectiles the previous day. The attacks are claimed by the PFLP, the DFLP, and the PRCs. Israel does not acknowledge the statement by the Palestinian factions. The IDF makes air strikes on 3 targets in Gaza, causing no injuries. (JP, REU 11/12; Daily Star [Beirut], REU 11/13)

The Israeli newspaper Ha’Aretz reports that Israeli DM Barak has approved a plan to expand the Itamar settlement to 5 times its size by adding 538 homes. Meanwhile, Israeli authorities demolish a home in the East Jerusalem neighborhood of the Mount of Olives, making 8 people homeless. In the West Bank, the IDF patrols in 1 village nr. Ramallah in the morning and 1 village nr. Ramallah at night; conducts house searches and arrest raids in 2 villages nr. Hebron, 1 village nr. Tulkarm, and 1 village nr. Jenin at night. (HA 11/12; AIC 11/13; PCHR 11/14)

The IDF fires tank shells into Syria and hits a Syrian military mobile artillery unit, in response to a Syrian mortar shell that struck the occupied Golan Heights earlier in the day. (REU 11/12)

Guyana recognizes a “sovereign Palestine,” but says borders must be agreed with Israel. (JTA 1/14)

In the West Bank, the IDF conducts afternoon patrols in numerous villages around Jenin and Qalqilya; conducts latenight patrols nr. Ramallah; and conducts late-night arrest raids and house searches in Hebron. Palestinians (accompanied by Israeli and international activists in some areas) hold weekly nonviolent demonstrations against the separation wall, land confiscations, and settlement expansion in Bil‘in, Ni‘lin, and Dayr Nizam/Nabi Salih. IDF soldiers fire rubber-coated steel bullets, tear gas, and stun grenades at the protesters; 2 Palestinians (including 1 child), 1 Dutch activist, and 1 Israeli are injured. (PCHR 1/20; OCHA 1/21)

Fearing massive protests later in the day, Tunisia’s Ben Ali declares a state of emergency in the morning, dissolves his government, and pledges early elections within 6 mos. Within hours, he and his family flee Tunisia for Saudi Arabia, where they are granted asylum. Ben Ali’s close ally, PM Muhammad Ghannouchi, assumes temporary control, saying he will move the government quickly toward elections. Protesters denounce his attempt to take control and demand his ouster for attempting to perpetuate Ben Ali’s corrupt regime, noting that constitutionally power should transfer to the head of parliament. In Cairo, a small group of Egyptian protesters gathers outside the Tunisian emb. in solidarity with Tunisian demonstrators, but also calling Mubarak a “fraud” and calling for his ouster. Police surround and outnumber them, but there is no violence. (NYT, WP 1/15; NYT 2/24)

Two IDF undercover units riding in vehicles with Palestinian plates raid Jenin, fatally shoot Izzeddin al-Qassam Brigades cmdr. Zayid Musa in an apparent assassination; open fire on Palestinians who gather to protest the killing, wounding 5; the IDF conducts arrest raids, house searches in Alar, Qalqilya and nr. Bethlehem, Nablus, Ramallah. Israel warns that it may cut off Gaza’s electricity supply if rocket attacks continue. In Gaza, the principal and vice principal of the American International School (1 Australian, 1 Dutch) are kidnapped, held for 8 hrs., released unharmed by PFLP mbrs. seeking the release of PFLP leader Ahmad Saadat, who has been jailed by the PA at Israel’s request since 4/02. (IMEMC 12/21; JAZ, NYT, PCHR 12/22, 12/29)

The IDF conducts overnight arrest raids, house searches in Aida r.c. 2 Palestinians die of injuries received on 10/26, 11/4. Palestinians in the territories, activists around the world (including Argentina, Australia, Bangladesh, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Chile, France, Germany, Holland, Italy, Jordan, Norway, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, the U.K., the U.S.) observe a day of protest against the separation wall. (VOI, VOP, YA 11/9 in WNC 11/11; DS, GS, PM 11/10; PCHR 11/13)

Arafat phones Sharon, Peres to wish them a happy Passover, to call on Israel to resume talks soon. Sharon reiterates his demand that Palestinians 1st halt all violence. Meanwhile, Israeli-Palestinian clashes continue, with a higher incidence of gunfire on both sides. (MENA 4/7, 4/7 in WNC 4/9; WT 4/8)

Despite the ban on public gatherings, 200 Jordanians stage a rally in Amman to mark the anniversary of the Dayr Yasin massacre, to reaffirm the Palestinians' right of return. Some 5,000 people attend a right of return rally in New York. Similar demonstrations are held in Australia (Melbourne, Perth, Sydney), Canada, Holland, Italy, Japan, Lebanon, the occupied territories, Spain, Syria. (AP 4/7; JT 4/8 in WNC 4/9; JP [Internet] 4/9)

U.S. special envoy Ross convinces Israel, PA to resume FAPS talks in Elat. Negotiators complain that reporters are getting in their way. (MM 5/3; NYT 5/4; al-Quds 5/4 in WNC 5/8; MEI 5/5) (see 5/2)

The FMs of Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Syria open a 2-day mtg. in Palmayra, Syria, to coordinate their stands on the peace process, explore the possibility of holding an Arab summit. (MM, NYT 5/3; MENA 5/3 in WNC 5/4; MM 5/4; MENA 5/4 in WNC 5/5; MENA 5/6 in WNC 5/8; MM 5/8)

The Israeli DMin. says that around 10/00, Israel will deploy a $250-m. laser-based air defense system, developed jointly with the U.S., to protect against missiles fired into Israel following a withdrawal fr. s. Lebanon. (MM 5/3; WP 5/4)

PA Dep. Education M Naim Abu al-Humus resigns in protest of the failure of the PA to respond to teachers' demands for pay increases. Teachers fr. Hebron hold a large sit-in strike outside the PA Education Min. offices to protest the PA's inaction regarding their salary increases. (MENL, PCHR 5/3; MENL 5/4; PR 5/10) (see 5/2)

The PA High Court suspends the 2/28 decree requiring all demonstrations, public mtgs. to receive prior authorization fr. the PA police. (PCHR 5/3)

In Iqlim al-Tuffah, outside Israel's self-declared security zone, an Israeli plane drops a 660-lb. bomb on the home of Amal regional cmdr. Abbas Hallal, injuring his mother, 14 civilians (including 6 children). Israel claims the shelling was a mistake. In 2 other IDF and SLA attacks in s. Lebanon, 3 Hizballah mbrs. and 2 civilians are killed. (NYT 5/4; MM, NYT, WP 5/5)

In the Netherlands, the trial of 2 Libyans charged in the 1988 bombing of Pan Am 103 opens. The Libyans plead not guilty, blame the crime on the PFLP-GC and the Palestinian Poplar Struggle Front. Both groups deny the charge. (MM, NYT, WP 5/4; MEI 5/5; CSM 5/9)

Pres. Clinton waives the 1995 Jerusalem Embassy Act requiring the State Dept. to relocate the U.S. embassy in Israel fr. Tel Aviv. If Clinton had not acted, the State Dept. would have forfeited about $500 m. in current funding for security, improvements at other embs. around the world. (WP, WT 6/19; RJ 6/19 in WNC 6/21; MM 6/21; JT 6/21 in WNC 6/22; MEI 7/2)

PM-elect Barak says that he will move quickly to construct the s. safe-passage route linking Gaza, West Bank. (MM 6/18; NYT, WP, WT 6/19; MM 6/21; AYM 6/23 in WNC 6/28; JP 6/25; MEI 7/2)

Mtg. in Cologne, the G-8 (Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Russia, UK, U.S.) decides against forgiving Jordan's debt, moves instead to forgive debt of the 33 poorest debtor nations. (NYT, WP 6/19; MM 6/25)

Iraq rejects the British-Dutch proposal, presented to the UN on 6/16, to ease sanctions in exchange for a new weapons inspection regime. (MM 6/18; NYT, WP 6/19; MM 6/22, 6/24, 6/25)