The Palestine Chronology

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers with a military escort marched near Fawwar refugee camp and Dura, throwing stones at Palestinian vehicles. Israeli forces closed the entrances to the camp and village to facilitate the march. Israeli settlers also attacked Palestinian shepherds in Khirbet Makhul. 40 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in Fawwar refugee camp, Hebron, Bethlehem, Shu’fat, Biddu, Aqabat Jaber refugee camp, Jenin, Tulkarm, and Qalqilya. In East Jerusalem, 1 Palestinian family was forced to demolish their own home in Sur Baher. In Gaza, an explosion at a Hamas military site in Dayr al-Balah killed 1 member of the Qassem Brigades and injured 1 other. Hamas called the explosion an accident. (AP, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 8/24; PCHR 8/31; UNOCHA 9/11)

Representatives from the UK, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Finland, Belgium, Sweden, Canada, and Norway toured Ras al-Tin and Burqa, condemning the demolition of an EU-funded school in Ein Samia and settler violence in the area. (WAFA 8/24)

The Israeli High Court of Justice approved the punitive demolition of the family home of a 13-year-old Palestinian who allegedly stabbed an Israeli police officer at the Shu’fat checkpoint on 2/13. The Palestinian child, whose trial is ongoing, was charged with murder as an Israeli settler opened fire at the child but instead shot and killed the police officer. The court rejected the argument that the family’s home should not be demolished due to the child’s age, saying the punitive demolition would deter other children from attacking Israeli forces. (HA 8/24; AP 8/31)

PA finance minister Shukri Bishara said that the Levine case against the PA and PLO had been dropped in a U.S. court. The plaintiff sought damages from the PA and PLO for $1 billion, claiming the PA and PLO were responsible for an attack that took place in Jerusalem in 2014. (WAFA 8/24)

PA president Mahmoud Abbas chaired the 11th session of the Fatah Revolutionary Council in Ramallah. (WAFA, WAFA 8/24)

Sierra Leonean president Julius Maada Bio issued a statement saying his country will open an embassy to Israel in Jerusalem. The announcement followed a phone conversation between Maada Bio and Israeli foreign minister Eli Cohen. (JP, TOI 8/25)

The Guardian reported that in a 43-page amicus brief sent to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in July the UK government opposed the ICJ review of the legality of the Israeli occupation. The UK opinion raised 4 main arguments against the review, saying that the issue is a “bilateral dispute,” that the court is not equipped to examine the issue, that the review would conflict with existing agreements, and that the review is not appropriate as it asks the court to “assume unlawful conduct on part of Israel.” (AN, GDN 8/24)

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said in a report that Israel had carried out 25 attacks on Syria in 2023, including 18 air attacks and 7 ground-to-ground attacks, hitting 60 targets and killing 61 people. (HA 8/24)

The BRICS group of China, Russia, Brazil, India, and South Africa invited Saudi Arabia, Iran, Ethiopia, Egypt, Argentina, and the UAE to join the group. (NYT 8/23; AP, AJ, MEE, REU 8/24; AJ, NYT, REU 8/25; AJ 8/28)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces shot and killed 1 Palestinian and injured 4 others during a raid in Aqabat Jaber refugee camp, including at least 2 who were fleeing the Israeli soldiers. Israeli forces also shot and injured 3 Palestinians with baton rounds and 10 with tear gas during a raid in Qarawat Bani Hassan. Elsewhere, Israeli forces raided Deir Abu Mash‘al and al-Walaja, causing tear-gas related injuries. Israeli forces also issued demolition notices for 2 residential structures, brick walls, a roof, and a bathroom in Khirbet Humsa and 1 agricultural structure in ‘Ain as-Sakout, and seized a bulldozer near Qalqilya. 14 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in Hebron, Surif, Ya’bad, Kafr Qoud, Nablus, and Tammun. In East Jerusalem, 4 Israeli settlers were injured in a car ramming and 1 Palestinian man was shot and killed by an Israeli settler after he allegedly hit the 4 with his car. Israeli settlers toured the Haram al-Sharif compound. Israeli police assaulted worshippers at the Haram al-Sharif compound’s Bab al-Rahma prayer area and cut electricity to building. 2 Palestinians were arrested in Sur Baher. (AJ, AN, AP, BBC, HA, HA, IN, MEE, QDS, QDS, QDS, QDS, QDS, QDS, REU, REU, TOI, TOI, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 4/24; HA, WAFA 4/25; PCHR 4/27; UNOCHA 5/5)

The PA Foreign Ministry condemned the 3-day long Israeli blockades of Jericho and the Nablus area coinciding with the Eid al-Fitr celebrations. (WAFA, WAFA 4/24)

In Syria, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said that Israeli forces fired more than 20 artillery shells near Hader in Quneitra, allegedly targeting Iranian supported militants. (AA, ALM, HA 4/24)

Israeli foreign minister Eli Cohen said that Israel Aerospace Industries had sold 2 satellites to Azerbaijan coinciding with his recent trip to Baku. (ALM 4/24)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers with military escort raided an anti-displacement protest in Masafer Yatta, causing injuries to Palestinians and Israeli activists, including 1 journalist. Israeli forces shot and injured 1 Palestinian using a baton round at a checkpoint in Hebron; others suffered tear-gas related injuries. In the West Bank, Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in Kafr Qaddum, injuring 7 with baton rounds and others with tear gas. Elsewhere, Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in Bayt Dajan, injuring 3 with baton rounds and 12 with tear gas. Israeli forces also violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in Beita, injuring 1 with a baton round and 4 with tear gas. Meanwhile, Israeli forces fired flare bombs near the separation wall in Rumana, sparking a fire that damaged Palestinian olive trees. 1 Palestinian was arrested during a late-night raid in Izbit al-Tayyah. In East Jerusalem, 1 Palestinian was arrested. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 6/10; PCHR 6/16; UNOCHA 6/17)

1 Palestinian who has been protesting his administrative detention by hunger striking by more than 100 days was taken to a hospital as his condition deteriorated. (WAFA 6/10)

Israeli forces conducted air strikes at Damascus International Airport, causing damage and forcing Syrian authorities to suspend flights in and out of the airport. The London-based Syrian opposition group, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, said that Iranian personnel were injured. Syrian media reported that civilian injuries occurred. Later reporting said that the Israeli air strikes damaged several runways at the airport. It was suggested that the airport will remain closed until 6/20. (AJ, AP, HA, JP, MEE, REU, REU, TOI, TOI 6/10; AJ, AP, F24 6/11; HA, TOI 6/12; AP 6/14)

The PA and the German development bank KfW signed an agreement worth $10.5 million to improve the PA health sector. (WAFA 6/10)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers attacked 2 Israeli soldiers and 1 Palestinian man with tear gas when the 2 soldiers were asking the Palestinian about settler vandalism at al-Mughayyir near the Adei Ad settlement outpost. Israeli settlers from the Ariel settlement also vandalized Palestinian property in Marda, spraying racist graffiti on walls and vehicles and puncturing tires. Elsewhere, Israeli settlers stole olive harvesting equipment in Burin. Israeli forces issued a demolition notice for a newly built road connecting Ya‘bad and Khirbat Emreha. Israeli forces also delivered notices for the seizure of 40 dunams (9.9 acres) of land in Yasuf. 10 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in and around ‘Azzun, Beita, Burqa, Nawawrah, Beit Umar, and Hebron; during the raid in Beit Umar, Israeli forces damaged 2 vehicles and fired tear gas at Palestinians confronting the soldiers. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinians from the Damascus Gate plaza, forcing them to leave the area. Off the coast of Gaza, Israeli naval forces opened fire at Palestinian fishermen within 6 nautical miles west of Gaza; no injuries were reported. (HA, MEMO, TOI, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 10/13; HA, PCHR 10/14; AJ 10/17)

The Jerusalem local planning committee approved the expropriation of land in the planned East Jerusalem Israeli settlement of Givat Hamatos, where 1,257 housing units are planned, along with filing plans to expand Pisgat Ze’ev. (AJ, HA, MEE, MEMO 10/14; AP, TOI 10/15)

Some 400 Palestinians held in Israeli prisons started an open-ended hunger strike to protest new restrictions imposed after 6 prisoners escaped Gilboa prison on 9/6. (MEMO, WAFA 10/14)

In Syria, Syrian officials said Israel had conducted an air strike near Palmyra, targeting a telecommunications tower and causing damage. Russia said that the Syrian air defense system did not engage the Israeli-fired missiles because the Israeli jets firing them were using civilian airplanes as cover. 9 people were killed in the attack, according to the London-based Syrian opposition group Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. (AP 10/13; TOI 10/15)

Chairman of the Religious Zionist party Bezalel Smotrich told Palestinian Israeli lawmakers during a Knesset discussion that they are only in Israel because “Ben-Gurion didn’t finish the job and throw you out in 1948.” Smotrich also called the lawmakers “terror supporters.” (HA 10/13; MEMO 10/14)

Israel’s regional cooperation minister Issawi Frej and deputy minister of foreign affairs Idan Roll met with Sudanese justice minister Nasredeen Abdulbari in Dubai. They talked about promoting future projects between the 2 countries and how to further their normalization deal. (AP 10/13; ALM 10/14)

U.S. secretary of state Antony Blinken met with Israeli foreign minister Yair Lapid and later had a trilateral meeting with Foreign Minister Lapid and foreign minister of the UAE Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Washington D.C. During a press conference, Secretary Blinken said that the U.S. is moving forward with reopening the U.S. consulate to Palestinians in Jerusalem, despite Israeli opposition. Lapid also later confirmed that the U.S. had raised the issue of Israeli settlement expansion during his meetings with U.S. officials. (AJ, ALM, AX, HA, HA, MEE, REU, REU 10/13; AP, REU 10/14)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers attacked a bus carrying Palestinians south of Nablus, causing damage to the bus. Israeli forces delivered demolition notices for 15 Palestinian homes in Yatma. In East Jerusalem, 1 Palestinian family demolished their own barns in Silwan to avoid exorbitant Israeli demolition fees. 6 Palestinian minors were arrested during raids in Shu‘fat and al-Tur. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire on Palestinian famers east of Gaza City; no injuries were reported. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 2/14; PCHR 2/18)

Israeli authorities released a 39-year-old terminally ill Palestinian prisoner serving the last year of a 20-year sentence. (WAFA 2/15)

The Sharia Judicial Council in Gaza ruled that unmarried women in Gaza must obtain permission from a male guardian to be able to travel. (AP, GDN, TOI 2/15; PCHR 2/16)

The Qatari envoy to Gaza Mohammad al-Emadi said Qatar had brokered a deal between the PA and the Israeli gas company Delek to deliver natural gas to Gaza and to install a gas pipe to the Gaza power station from an offshore rig. According to the deal, European countries will fund the maritime parts of the gas pipe within Gaza’s maritime borders and Qatar will fund the extension to the gas rig. Envoy al-Emadi said it will take 2 years to construct the gas pipe. (HA 2/14; REU 2/23; HA, WAFA 2/24; AP, REU 2/25)

The Jewish National Fund’s (JNF) leadership approved a change in policy that will allow the JNF to purchase land in the West Bank for Israeli settlement expansion. The JNF’s board of directors still needs to approve the new policy and is said to decide after the 3/23 Israeli elections. The JNF leadership also approved allocating $11.7 million for buying land in the West Bank, a decision that also needs the board of director’s final approval. Several Zionist organizations expressed criticism of the JNF’s decision. (HA, HA 2/14; HA 2/15)

Syrian state media said Israel fired missiles at Damascus from the Golan Heights but did not report any casualties. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said 6 people were killed in the attack. (AJ, AJ, AP, HA 2/15)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers stole 150 olive saplings in Jalud. Israeli forces raided Bayt Umar, leading to clashes; tear-gas related injuries were reported. Israeli forces also razed several hundred olive saplings and trees in Dayr Balut. 5 Palestinians were arrested during raids in and around Dayr Nitham, Nablus, and Hebron. In Gaza, Israeli forces made incursions and leveled land east of Khan Yunis. In Israel, Israeli police violently dispersed Palestinian citizens of Israel in Kafr Qara protesting the lack of Israeli police’s willingness to investigate intra-communal violence of Palestinian communities in Israel; 1 Palestinian citizen of Israel was killed on 1/5. (HA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 1/6; PCHR 1/7)

An Israeli military court convicted the prominent Palestinian activist Issa Amro of 6 of 18 charges against him, including obstructing Israeli forces’ activities and assaulting 1 Israeli settler. Amnesty International has called the charges politically motivated and Amro denies the charges against him. He will be sentenced on 2/8. Amro also has a court hearing at a PA court on 1/20 for accusations of “insulting higher authorities” over Facebook. Amnesty has also called the PA charges “disgraceful.” (AI 1/5; HA, MEE, REU 1/6)

Sudan announced that it had signed on the normalization deal between Israel, Bahrain, and the UAE after Sudan was formally removed from the U.S. list of state sponsors of terrorism in December. The agreement was formalized by the Sudanese justice minister Nasredeen Abdulbari and U.S. treasury secretary Steven Mnuchin. The U.S. has also agreed to settle Sudan’s debt to the World Bank and granted Sudan immunity from prosecution related to the 2 U.S. embassy bombings in east Africa during the 1990s. (AJ, HA, REU 1/6)

The London-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said that 15 people were killed or injured in Israeli attacks on southern Damascus. (REU 1/6; MEE 1/7; HA 1/9)

In Washington D.C., thousands of anti-democracy Donald Trump supporters protested at the U.S. Capitol building after attending a Trump rally by the White House on the day that the U.S. congress was to confirm the electoral college vote win for president-elect Joe Biden. Hundreds of protesters stormed the Capitol building while the legislators were debating the electoral college votes, taking over the senate chamber while legislators were evacuated. 1 protester was killed in the Capitol building and 4 others died due to “medical emergencies” during the violent protest, including a police officer. At least a dozen U.S. police officers were injured and several dozen protesters were arrested. After the Capitol building was secured, U.S. members of congress certified President-Elect Biden’s win. In the aftermath, Trump was temporarily banned from Twitter and Facebook after accusations of using the platforms to incite the rioters. Trump subsequently promised an “orderly transition of power” despite not acknowledging his defeat in the presidential election, making unsubstantiated claims of voter fraud. 2 of the Trump administration cabinet members and a dozen high-ranking officials resigned in the aftermath of violence encouraged by the president; speaker of the house Nancy Pelosi was among many bipartisan voices calling for Trump’s removal from office. Also, 2 Democrats were declared winners of the run-off elections in Georgia, providing the Democrats a majority in the Senate as well as the House. (AJ, GDN, HA, HA, HA, REU, REU 1/6; AJ, AJ, AJ, AP, AP, AX, BBC, CNN, CNN, HA, HA, HA, IN, MEE, NPR, NYT, NYT, REU, WP 1/7; AJ, CBS, CNN, CNN, CNN, WAFA, WP 1/8; HA 1/9)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers uprooted and otherwise vandalized 45 olive trees near Salfit. 17 Palestinians were arrested during raids in and around Kaubar, Jenin, Hebron, and Bethlehem. In East Jerusalem, 2 Palestinians were arrested during a late-night raid in Issawiyya. (WAFA, WAFA 11/26; PCHR 12/3)

The Rafah crossing was open in both directions. (WAFA 11/21)

According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, Israel struck Syria for the 3d time in a week, hitting targets in the Albuqmal region and killing 19 people said to be Pakistani nationals. (HA 11/26)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers with military escort stormed Sabastiyya, closing off parts of the town to Palestinians. Israeli forces arrested 2 Israeli settlers from the Kumi Ori settlement outpost who attacked Israeli forces. Israeli forces also shot and killed 1 Palestinian man at a checkpoint near East Jerusalem, claiming he had tried to flee when having his papers inspected at the checkpoint; Israel handed his body to his family on 11/29, indicating that Israel did not suspect he wanted to attack the soldiers. B’Tselem said that 1 Israeli officer shot the Palestinian after the situation had unfolded and despite being ordered to hold fire. Israeli forces also demolished 2 houses and several other structures in Fasayil, 1 house under construction in Hebron, and 2 houses east of Yatta. 8 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in and around Hebron, Nablus, and Kaubar. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire on Palestinian agricultural lands east of Dayr al-Balah; no injuries were reported. (HA, HA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 11/25; AJ, PCHR, WAFA 11/26; TOI, WAFA 11/29; B’Tselem, HA, TOI 11/30)

The Rafah crossing was open in both directions. (WAFA 11/21)

Israeli forces bombed targets in Quneitra and Damascus. 8 people were reportedly killed according to the London-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. (AJ, HA 11/25)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers attacked 1 Palestinian minor and his father in Hebron. Israeli settlers also set up tents in Battir near Bethlehem. Israeli forces delivered demolition orders for 1 residential structure and 1 garden in Sabastiyya, 1 pool used for irrigation in Bayt Dajan, and a number of structures east of Yatta. Israeli forces also demolished 1 residential structure near Tubas and dismantled and seized 1 wooden shed in Umm al-Jamal. Israeli forces also shot and injured 6 Palestinians using rubber-coated bullets during raids in Qalandia refugee camp; 1 Israeli soldier was also injured during the clashes, which lasted some 2 hours; 9 Palestinian-owned vehicles were damaged. 12 Palestinians were arrested during raids in and around Nablus, Birzeit, Bayt Umar, Qalandia, Hebron, and Jenin. 7 Palestinians were arrested in the Old City and Issawiyya. In Gaza, Israeli forces made incursions and razed farmland east of Khan Yunis. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 11/17, PCHR 11/19)

The PA civil affairs minister Hussein al-Sheikh announced that the PA would resume coordination with Israel, including security coordination, after suspending ties in May. Civil Affairs Minister al-Sheikh said that Israel had promised to respect its agreements with the PA during “international negotiations conducted by the president [Mahmoud Abbas].” Hamas and Islamic Jihad condemned the PA’s move, saying it undermines reconciliation efforts. PA prime minister Mohammad Shtayyeh said during a Zoom conference organized by the Council of Foreign Relations that the COVID-19 pandemic played a part in the decision as the PA have struggled to find the resources to fight it. (AJ, HA, HA, REU, TOI, WAFA 11/17; HA, TOI 11/18; HA 11/19)

Israeli said it defused explosive devices in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights near the de facto border of Syria. Israel later attacked Syria, striking 8 targets. According to the Syrian state media SANA, 3 were killed, 1 wounded, and Syria intercepted Israeli missiles over Damascus. The London-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said 10 people were killed in the strikes. Israel acknowledged to have attacked Syria, saying it was responding to the explosive devices and claiming that it had hit Iranian and Syrian forces in Syria. (HA, REU 11/17; AJ, HA 11/18; BBC 11/19)

Both Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu and president Reuven Rivlin congratulated U.S. president-elect Joe Biden via phone. (HA 11/17)

1 Jewish-Israeli was given a 7-year prison sentence for smuggling metals into Gaza and selling them to Hamas. He was also fined $60,000. (TOI, HA 11/17)

41 Democrats in congress cosigned a letter to U.S. secretary of state Mike Pompeo, expressing concern about Israel’s demolition of the village Khirbet Humsa on 11/3, demanding that Secretary Pompeo condemn Israel’s actions. (Mark Pocan’s Office 11/17; HA, WAFA 11/18)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers emptied wastewater on Palestinian agricultural lands near Sabastiyya. Israeli settlers also assaulted Palestinians harvesting olives in Dayr al-Hatab, forcing the farmers to leave. Elsewhere, in the northern part of the Jordan Valley, Israeli settlers set up a cow shed and brought cows to Palestinian-owned land. Israeli forces demolished 1 market stall in Qalqilya and delivered stop-work orders for 3 houses and dozens of other structures in Qalandia. 5 Palestinians were arrested during raids in and around Tulkarm, al-‘Arub refugee camp, and Jericho. In East Jerusalem, 4 Palestinians were arrested during raids. In Gaza, Israeli forces fired 2 missiles, hitting empty land east of Dayr al-Balah, claiming that 1 rocket was fired toward Israel earlier in the day; no injuries were reported. Israel also said it had found a tunnel running near Khan Yunis tens of meters into Israel. Israel later claimed that the tunnel was built by Hamas. Off the coast of Gaza, Israeli naval forces opened fire on Palestinian fishermen within 4 nautical miles off the shore of al-Sudaniyya; no injuries were reported. (HA, HA, HA, REU, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 10/20; AJ, HA, WAFA 10/21; PCHR 10/22)

1 Palestinian man died while working in a quarry owned by the settler company Shapir Engineering and Manufacturing near the Modi’in Illit settlement in the West Bank. His employer did not call the Israeli ambulance service that the worker was entitled to as he was employed by a settler company, but rather called the Palestinian Red Crescent, which took 30 minutes to arrive at the scene and brought the Palestinian to a hospital in Ramallah, where he was pronounced dead. The employer also did not notify the police of the death. The family of the deceased Palestinian said that if the Israeli ambulance had been called he might have survived as they were stationed closer to the accident. (HA 10/26)

An envoy from the UAE accompanied by U.S. secretary of the treasury Steven Mnuchin and U.S. envoy for the peace process Avi Berkowitz was welcomed in Tel Aviv airport by Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu, foreign minister Gabi Ashkenazi, and finance minister Israel Katz. In the Tel Aviv airport, Israel and the UAE signed a mutual visa waiver agreement allowing citizens of both countries to travel to and from each other without obtaining a visa. The parties also signed a preliminary agreement to have oil from the UAE run through an Israeli pipeline supplying the European market. A member of the PLO executive committee Wasel Abu Youssef called the visit “shameful” and said such a visit emboldens Israel in committing crimes against Palestinians. A Hamas spokesperson, Hazem Qassem, said the visit “only encourage[s] the occupation to pursue the gradual annexation of West Bank lands.” Last week on 14 and 15 October, Israel announced 5,000 new settlement units in various settlements in the West Bank. (AJ, AJ, HA, HA, REU 10/20; TOI 10/21; LT, REU 10/22)

Israel struck a target in Syria; according to Syrian state media SANA, Israel hit a school in a village in Quneitra Province. However, the London-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said it was a Hezbollah facility that was hit by the Israeli strike. (HA 10/21)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers injured 4 Palestinians, including 1 pregnant woman while they were traveling by car northeast of Ramallah; 2, including the pregnant woman, were described as in critical condition. 1 Palestinian was shot and wounded at a checkpoint south of Nablus after allegedly ramming 2 Israeli soldiers who sustained “minor wounds”; according to the Israeli army, the suspect tried to stab the soldiers after crashing his vehicle. Israeli forces also injured 2 Palestinians using live ammunition near Bethlehem and Jenin. 1 45-year-old Palestinian prisoner died of a heart attack at Ofer prison near Ramallah. Israeli forces demolished 2 houses and 1 shack and handed demolition notices for 5 Palestinian-owned houses near Yatta. Elsewhere, Israeli forces seized 3 tents in a Bedouin community near Ramallah. 3 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in and around Bethlehem, Yatta, and Jenin. In East Jerusalem, 1 Palestinian photojournalist was arrested during a house raid in Issawiyya; Israeli forces seized his equipment during the raid. In Gaza, Israeli forces made incursions to level agricultural lands. Israeli forces also opened fire at agricultural lands east of Khan Yunis and Khuza‘a. (HA 9/1; WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 9/2; PCHR, WAFA 9/3; WAFA 9/4)

Chairman of the Hamas politburo Ismail Haniyeh embarked for Beirut for a week-long visit, where he is expected to meet with leaders of other Palestinian factions, Lebanese officials, and Hezbollah secretary-general Hassan Nasrallah. According to the spokesperson for PA president Mahmoud Abbas, the Palestinian factions will discuss “Palestinian unity to defeat conspiracies against Palestine.” President Abbas and other West Bank officials will be connected to the factions in Beirut via video conference. (AJ, WAFA 9/2)

Senior advisor to U.S. president Donald Trump, Jared Kushner, met with the Qatari emir Shaykh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani in Qatar to discuss potential Qatari normalization with Israel. According to Emir al-Thani’s cabinet, al-Thani informed Kushner that Qatari normalization of ties with Israel is dependent on a Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as the capital. (AJ, HA 9/2)

Syrian state news said Israeli fighter jets fired missiles near the T-4 airbase in Homs province, causing damage. According to the British-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, 16 people were killed in the attacks. (HA, TOI 9/3)

U.S. secretary of state Mike Pompeo announced that the U.S. administration had sanctioned ICC prosecutor Fatou Bensouda and head of the ICC’s Jurisdiction, Complementarity, and Cooperation Division Phakiso Mochochoko. Secretary Pompeo said that the U.S. had made the move “because the ICC continues to target Americans.” The UN secretary-general António Guterres expressed concern about the U.S.’s renewed attack on the ICC. Besides ICC’s investigation into potential war crimes committed by the U.S. in Afghanistan, the court is also investigating potential war crimes committed by Israel in the occupied Palestinian territories. (BBC, Guardian, ICC, 9/2; WAFA 9/3; REU 9/15)

The EU contributed $10.65 million to the PA to help pay salaries and pensions for the month of July for civil servants in the West Bank. (WAFA 9/2)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers set fire to Palestinian-owned fields near Burin. Israeli forces prevented Palestinians from entering Bardala for a planned protest against annexation of parts of the West Bank. 1 Palestinian was beaten and arrested at a checkpoint in Qalandia. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire on agricultural lands west of Dayr al-Balah; no injuries were reported. (HA, HA, WAFA, WAFA 6/27; PCHR 7/2)

PA prime minister Mohammad Shtayyeh ordered a full ban of all forms of public gatherings due to a rise in COVID-19 virus cases throughout the West Bank. The governor of Bethlehem declared a 2-day lockdown of Bethlehem city and surrounding areas starting 6/29. (WAFA, WAFA 6/27)

U.S. assistant to the president and special representative for international negotiations Avi Berkowitz met with Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu to discuss annexation of parts of the West Bank. (Axios 6/29)

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said Israel conducted air strikes in the Syrian city Dayr al-Zur, killing 6 people, including 4 Syrian nationals. (HA 6/28)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces shot and killed 1 Palestinian at the Container checkpoint near Bethlehem. Israeli forces claimed that he had attempted to ram Israeli soldiers with his car, a claim his family dismissed as he was on his way to pick up his sister for her wedding. Later, Israeli forces violently dispersed protests in the deceased man’s hometown of Abu Dis, leading to tear-gas and rubber-coated bullet related injuries. Israeli forces did not provide any medical attention to the man for at least 30 minutes after he was shot. Israeli settlers attacked 3 Palestinians in Ras Karkar and sealed of a main road between Nablus and Jenin. Elsewhere, settlers set fire to Palestinian-owned agricultural lands planted with almond trees in Burqa. Israeli forces assaulted 2 Palestinians in Hebron. Israeli forces also seized historical artifacts in Bayt Umar and equipment from a smith workshop in al-Sawahara. 7 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in and around Jericho, Bethlehem, Kobar, and Qalandia. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces demolished 1 Palestinian house in Silwan. 10 Palestinians were arrested by Israeli forces in Silwan and Issawiyya during late-night raids. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire on Palestinian shepherds east Bayt Hanun; no injuries were reported. In Israel, about 1,500 people protested against annexation of parts of the West Bank; among the speakers at the protest were several retired Israeli generals. (AJ, HA, REU, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 6/23; AJ, HA, PCHR, TOI 6/24; PCHR 6/25)

Israeli defense minister Benny Gantz said at a press briefing that Israel “won’t keep waiting for the Palestinians” in relation to peace talks and annexation. He further stated, “We won’t get into the Palestinians’ deep shit . . . The Palestinians continue to reject dialogue and to remain in their ‘deep shit.’” (HA 6/23)

The Syrian army said that Israel conducted air strikes in at least 3 different areas of Syria, killing 2 soldiers and wounding 4 others. According to the London-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, 7 people were killed in the attacks. (AJ, HA, REU, TOI 6/23; AJ 6/24)

Senior aides to U.S. president Donald Trump began discussing Israel’s plan to annex parts of the West Bank. (REU 6/23)

In a report submitted to the UN Security Council 1 day ahead of its biannual meeting on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the UN secretary general António Guterres called on Israel to abandon its annexation plans and called annexation a “most serious violation of international law.” (AJ 6/23)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers chopped down 36 olive trees in Burin. Israeli settlers and military escort toured Joseph’s Tomb in Nablus, leading to confrontations with Palestinians; tear-gas related injuries were reported. Israeli forces demolished a residential structure, displacing 10 people in Bayt Umar. 19 Palestinians were arrested during raids in and around Qalqilya, ‘Azun, Tulkarm, Ramallah, Bethlehem, and Hebron. In East Jerusalem, Israeli authorities banned the former mufti of Jerusalem, Shaykh Ikrima Sabri, from entering the Haram al-Sharif compound for 4 months. Off the coast of Gaza, Israeli naval forces opened fire on Palestinian fishermen north of Rafah; no injuries were reported. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 6/4; PCHR 6/11)

PA prime minister Mohammad Shtayyeh said that the PA would not trade Israeli-withheld PA tax revenue for political concessions, saying “[t]he question of Palestine is not that of money, but of rights, dignity and freedom.” (WAFA 6/5)

The PA responded to the ICC’s request for clarification on the PA’s decision to end all agreements with Israel and the U.S. in light of the impeding annexation of parts of the West Bank. In its response, the PA said that ending agreements with Israel and the U.S. does “not in any way purport to, nor does it, legally affect the question [of the ICC jurisdiction relating to Israeli war crimes in the occupied Palestinian territories] presently before the Chamber.” (HA 6/5; WAFA 6/6)

Syrian state media and the British-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) reported Israeli air strikes in Hama. According to SOHR, 9 people were killed, including 4 Syrians. According to Syrian state media, Syrian forces intercepted 1 Israeli attack. (HA 6/4; AJ 6/5)

Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi (D-NY) said at an online event that Israeli annexation of parts of the West Bank undermines U.S. national security interests. (HA 6/4)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces shot and injured 1 Palestinian minor using rubber-coated bullets in Kafr Malik. Israeli forces also seized a tractor north of Jericho and handed demolition orders for 5 residential structures and a council building near Yatta. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces violently dispersed protests during the funeral procession for the Palestinian man who was shot by Israeli forces in the Old City on 5/30. Israeli defense minister Benny Gantz said the Israeli government was “sorry for this incident” and that it would be investigated quickly. Separately, Israeli forces violently dispersed a gathering to commemorate the death of Faisal Husseini in Shaykh Jarrah. 5 Palestinian organizers were arrested, including PA governor of Jerusalem Adnan Gheith. The Haram al-Sharif compound reopened after it was closed on 3/15 in order to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Israeli settlers led by Yehuda Glick toured the Haram al-Sharif compound; during the tour, Israeli forces arrested 3 Palestinians on the compound, including the head of the Palestinian Prisoner’s Society and a Waqf guard. 1 other Palestinian was arrested during a raid in Silwan. In Israel, Israeli authorities demolished 4 Palestinian-owned homes in al-Tira. (AJ, HA, HA, HA, REU, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 5/31; WAFA 6/1; PCHR 6/4)

5 people were killed in air strikes in eastern Syria. The British based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said that Israel was likely responsible for the air strikes. (TOI 5/31)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces demolished 1 agricultural structure east of Tubas. Israeli forces arrested 10 Palestinians in and around Dura, Qiffin, Nablus, and Ramallah. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces clashed with Palestinians during a raid in Kafr ‘Aqab, leading to tear-gas related injuries. Israeli forces also arrested 2 Palestinians in Issawiyya. Off the coast of Gaza, Israeli naval forces opened fire on Palestinian fishermen 3 nautical miles west of Bayt Lahiya. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire on agricultural lands east of Dayr al-Balah; no injuries were reported. (WAFA, WAFA 5/4; PCHR 5/7)

Syrian state media said the Syrian government had intercepted Israeli missiles targeting a research center and a military base in the Aleppo province. Separately, the London-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported that Israel had attacked positions in Dayr al-Zor near the Iraqi border, killing 14 Iranian and Iraqi nationals. (REU 5/4; AJ, HA, HA 5/5)

In the West Bank, 2 Palestinians were shot and injured by Israeli forces using live ammunition near the separation wall south of Qalqilya. Elsewhere, Israeli forces violently dispersed the weekly anti-settlement protest in Kafr Qaddum; 6 Palestinians were injured by rubber-coated bullets, including 3 minors. Israeli forces also delivered a demolition notice for a punitive demolition of the family home of an accused Palestinian attacker during a late-night raid in Tulkarm; during the raid, Israeli forces and Palestinians clashed, leading to tear-gas related injuries. 3 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in Bayt Sira. Off the coast of Gaza, Israeli naval forces opened fire on Palestinian fishermen 3 nautical miles west of Bayt Lahiya; no injuries were reported. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire on Palestinian shepherds east of Rafah and at agricultural lands east of al-Bureij; no injuries were reported. (WAFA 5/1; PCHR 5/7)

Israel attacked at least 1 position in Syria. Israeli military helicopters fired rockets at targets in Qunaytra, causing damage. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights also reported that Israeli jets struck an ammunition depot east of Homs and that there were civilian losses. (REU 4/30; HA, REU 5/1; HA 5/5)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces delivered a stop-work order for a mosque under construction in Kardala in the northern part of the Jordan Valley, 1 demolition notice for an agricultural structure south of Bethlehem, demolished 1 shack in Burqa, demolished parts of a structure at a tourist site in Sabastiyya, and razed 2 dunams (.5 acres) of land south of Bethlehem. Elsewhere, Israeli forces clashed with Palestinians near Taqqua; 2 Palestinians were hospitalized with wounds from rubber-coated bullets and live ammunition. 5 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in and around Hebron and Bethlehem. Israeli settlers planted trees in Palestinian-owned land near Artas. In Gaza, Israeli forces opened fire on agricultural lands east of Bayt Hanun no injuries were reported. (WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 4/20; PCHR 4/23)

Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu and coalition partner Benny Gantz of Israel Resilience agreed to terms of a unity government, including splitting the 4-year term as prime minister with Netanyahu serving the first half and Gantz serving as deputy prime minister and defense minister; decisions on annexation of the entirety or parts of the West Bank to start after 7/1, and Gantz will not have a veto in the decision; and Netanyahu can veto appointments for attorney general and state prosecutor, both positions involved in Netanyahu’s upcoming trial. (AJ, AP, CNN, HA, NYT, REU, WAFA 4/20)

Syrian state media reported that the country’s military had intercepted several Israeli missiles over the Palmyra area. According to the London-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, 9 people were killed by the Israeli missiles, including 3 Syrian nationals. The Iranian foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif was in Damascus earlier in the day meeting with Syrian president Bashar al-Asad. (HA 4/20; AJ, JP 4/21)

In the West Bank, 1 PA police officer was killed and 6 others wounded when Israeli forces conducted night raids in Jenin, according to Israeli officials. The PA police officer did not pose a threat to Israeli soldiers. Another Palestinian from Jenin was killed and 7 others injured by Israeli forces during protests against a punitive demolition of the family home of an alleged attacker. Separately, Israeli forces delivered a stop-work order for a school in Susiya and demolished part of an agricultural structure south of Hebron. Israeli forces also violently dispersed Palestinians protesting the U.S. administration’s peace plan in ‘Azun and Qalqilya, leading to tear-gas related injuries. 4 Palestinians were injured by Israeli forces using rubber-coated bullets during clashes erupting after Israeli forces raided Bayt Jala; others suffered tear-gas related injuries. 1 Israeli soldier was injured by an unidentified sniper near Dolev settlement. 7 Palestinians were arrested during raids in and around Bethlehem, Hebron, al-Ram, Ramallah, and Jenin. In East Jerusalem, 1 Palestinian citizen of Israel from Haifa opened fire on Israeli police officers in the Old City, lightly wounding 1 before being shot to death. Israeli forces delivered demolition notices for 3 structures in Jabal Mukabir. 2 Palestinians were arrested in the Old City. In Gaza, 2 mortar shells were fired at Israel and Israel struck targets in Gaza; no injuries were reported. Israeli forces also opened fire on Palestinian farmland east of Khan Yunis on 2 separate occasions; no injuries were reported. In Israel, 12 Israeli soldiers were injured in a suspected car-ramming in West Jerusalem. The car was later found in Bayt Jala near Bethlehem and a Palestinian man was arrested. Israel also demolished the bedouin village al-Araqib for the 174th time since 2010. (AJ, AJ, AJ, AJ, BBC, HA, HA, HA, HA, HA, PCHR, REU, TOI, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 2/6; PCHR 2/13)

The PA announced that its decision to ban some Israeli goods from the Palestinian market went into effect. (WAFA 2/6)

Israel reportedly killed 23 people during air strikes in several places in Syria. Israel struck targets near Damascus, Quneitra, Daraa, and Reef. According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, 15 of those killed were Iranian-backed fighters, 3 of them Iranian, and 8 were Syrian government forces. (AJ, BBC 2/6; HA 2/7)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces dismantled and seized a shack in Ras Karkar, and handed a punitive demolition order for a house in Jenin. 6 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in and around Ramallah, Bethlehem, ‘Azun, and Kafr Labad. Israeli forces clashed with Palestinians at a checkpoint in Hebron, causing tear-gas related injuries. Israeli settlers vandalized 80 olive trees and ignited a different olive field, burning another 30 olive trees in al-Sawiya. In East Jerusalem, 1 Palestinian was arrested during a late-night raid in Issawiyya. In Gaza, 2 Palestinians were arrested while trying to enter Israel by the Gaza fence. (WAFA, WAFA 1/9; PCHR 1/16)

Lebanese newspaper al-Mayadeen reported that Israel was behind an air strike that killed 8 people in Syria near the Iraqi border. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said that no Syrian citizens were killed and that the air strikes had targeted Iran-backed militias. (HA 1/10)

The U.S. administration rejected a request made by Iraqi prime minister Adel Abdul Mahdi for the U.S. troops to leave Iraq. The request was made during a phone call between Prime Minister Mahdi and U.S. secretary of state Mike Pompeo. (AJ 1/10)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces demolished 2 houses in al-‘Arub refugee camp. 10 Palestinians were arrested during house raids in and around Ramallah, Hebron, and Jenin. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces demolished a Palestinian-owned house in Jabal Mukabir. 15 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in Issawiyya. (WAFA, WAFA 11/19; PCHR 11/21)

Israel said it had intercepted 4 missiles launched from Syria at the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights. Israel subsequently hit more than 20 targets in Syria, killing 23 people, according to the British-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. (AJ, HA 11/19; AJ, HA 11/20; HA 11/22)

In a significant departure from previous votes at the UN, Canada voted for a resolution supporting Palestinians’ right to self-determination. Canada has since 2006 voted with Israel and the U.S. or abstained on issues pertaining to Palestine. A Canadian official told Canadian media that the country was sending a message to the U.S. that it does not agree with the U.S. change of policy in stating that it no longer considers Israeli settlements illegal under international law as announced by U.S. secretary of state Mike Pompeo on 11/18. (CBC, MEMO 11/20)

IDF troops shoot and injure 4 Palestinians during clashes sparked by an overnight arrest raid in Dahaysha refugee camp near Bethlehem. One of the injured Palestinians, a paramedic, succumbs to his wounds later in the day. Elsewhere in the West Bank, IDF troops violently disperse Palestinians gathering at Birzeit University to protest the recent killing in the West Bank and the recent violence in Israeli prisons; 8 protesters are injured. Israeli forces deliver stop-work orders to 5 Palestinian water wells under construction near Salfit. Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops shoot and injure a Palestinian approaching the border fence near al-Bureij refugee camp. They also violently disperse Palestinians gathering near Khan Yunis in the evening to set tires on fire, throw stones, and otherwise continue the Great March of Return; 3 Palestinians are injured. (HA, MNA, MNA, MNA, TOI, WAFA, WAFA 3/27; MNA, MNA, MNA, PCHR 3/28)

A delegation of Egyptian officials arrives in Gaza to continue the ongoing talks with Hamas on the situation in Gaza. The Egyptians reportedly caution restraint ahead of the planned protests on 3/29 and 3/30, which will mark the 1-year anniversary of the first Great March of Return demonstration. They also present new terms for a possible cease-fire with Israel. (AP, TOI 3/27; HA, YA 3/28)  

The UN Security Council convenes to discuss the U.S. recognition of Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights, which President Donald Trump formally conveyed on 3/25. The other 14 members of the council all condemn the move as detrimental to the long-term chances for peace in the region. During the meeting, a senior U.S. representative says that the U.S. would like for the UN Disengagement Observer Force to stay in the Golan Heights, where it has monitored the buffer zone between Israel and Syria since 1974. (TOI 3/27; TOI 3/28)

The Israeli Air Force conducts air strikes on ammunition depots outside the Aleppo International Airport late at night. According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, 7 Iranian troops are killed in the strike. The Syrian army reports that the strike causes only material damage. (HA, JP, REU, YA 3/28)

In the West Bank, IDF troops arrest 21 Palestinians during late-night raids near Ramallah, Nablus, Hebron, Qalqilya, and Tulkarm; and patrol near Ramallah, Hebron, Tulkarm, and Qalqilya. Israeli settlers cut down 2 olive trees in a Palestinian grove near Hebron. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 4 Palestinians during a raid in Silwan. Along Gaza’s coast, IDF troops violently disperse a few hundred Palestinians gathering near al-Bureij refugee camp to continue the Great March of Return for a 3d day in a row; 1 Palestinian minor is injured. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Jabaliya refugee camp, causing no damage or injuries (1 fisherman is arrested). In Israel, Israeli forces demolish a Palestinian home for the 2d time in Lod. (MNA, WAFA 1/20; MNA, MNA 1/21; PCHR 1/24)

A Qatari diplomat says that the $15 million that was supposed to be transferred to Gaza last week is set to go through this week, following a relatively quiet day of protests on 1/18. “Due to the violence on the border, the Israeli government postponed it,” he says. “The agreement is subject to there not being too much violence, so last Friday they approved to do the third tranche.” (HA, JP, REU, TOI, YA 1/20)

YNet reports that PA prime minister Rami Hamdallah formally informed U.S. secretary of state Mike Pompeo that the Palestinians have decided to reject future U.S. financial assistance, including that which supports the PA security forces, in response to the Anti-Terrorism Clarification Act, which the U.S. passed into law in 10/2018 (see *S. 2946 of 5/24/18 at congressionalmonitor.org for details). That law, which is set to go into effect at the end of the month, forced the Palestinians to either accept future U.S. aid or open themselves up to terrorism lawsuits from individual U.S. citizens, inter alia. (JP, TOI, YA 1/20)

Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu lands in Chad to renew the diplomatic ties between Israel and Chad that were severed in 1972. At a joint press conference with Netanyahu, Chad’s President Idriss Déby says, ‘The purpose of your visit is to bring our two countries closer and to cooperate.” Netanyahu calls it the renewal of ties a “breakthrough” and a sign of Israel’s “rising standing” in the Muslim world. (HA, JP, TOI, TOI 1/20)

After unverified reports of Syrian air defenses intercepting an Israeli air strike near Damascus, several ground-to-ground projectiles are fired from Syria into northern Israel. They are all intercepted by Israel’s Iron Dome missile defense system. Late at night, Israeli forces strike approximately 10 government weapons depots, intelligence sites, and other targets in Syria, killing 21 people, including 12 member of Iran’s Revolutionary Guards Corps, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. An IDF spokesperson says that Iranian forces were responsible for the projectile launched into Israel earlier in the day. “This was planned in advance as an attempt to deter us from continuing to act against them,” he says. (HA, JP, TOI, YA, YA 1/20; JP, TOI 1/21; HA 1/22)

Approximately 20 Grad and Fajr-5 rockets are fired from Syria toward northern Israel. Four of them are intercepted by Israel’s Iron Dome missile defense system, and the rest explode over Syrian territory, causing no major damage or injury. The IDF accuses Iran of being behind the attack and retaliates, bombing dozens of alleged Iranian weapons storage, logistics, and intelligence sites in Syria; 27 people are killed, including 19 Iranians, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. (JP 5/9; CNN, HA, JP, MEMO, NYT, TOI, YA 5/10; HA 5/11; AP 5/12)

Along Gaza’s border, Israeli forces conduct a limited incursion to level land and repair the border fence near Khan Yunis. Later, they open fire on Palestinian farmers working near Gaza City and al-Bureij refugee camp and Great March of Return protesters near Khan Yunis, Gaza City, Jabaliya refugee camp, and al-Bureij refugee camp; 6 Palestinians are injured. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Bayt Lahiya and Khan Yunis, causing no damage or injuries. In the West Bank, Israeli forces demolish a makeshift Palestinian home near Nablus. IDF troops arrest 8 Palestinians during late-night raids near Jericho, Tubas, Bethlehem, Ramallah, and Jenin; and patrol near Hebron and Nablus. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces establish a checkpoint in Abu Dis, sparking minor clashes with Palestinian minors; 1 Israeli border police officer and 7 Palestinians are injured (3 Palestinians are arrested as well). (JP, MNA, TOI, WAFA 5/9; PCHR 5/10)

Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops open fire on small groups of Palestinians approaching the border fence near Bayt Lahiya and alBureij refugee camp, injuring 2 minors. Separately, Palestinians fly incendiary kites across the border fence into Israel, where they land and set fire to Israeli farmlands, causing damage. Israeli forces conduct a limited incursion to level land along the border fence near al-Bureij refugee camp. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 8 Palestinians during raids in Issawiyya. (They arrest 19 Palestinians in the neighborhood within this week.) They also demolish a commercial facility and a gas station in Issawiyya. In the West Bank, IDF troops arrest 16 Palestinians during raids near Ramallah, Nablus, Jenin, Qalqilya, and Salfit; and patrol near Hebron. (WAFA, YA 5/8; HA 5/9; PCHR 5/10)

U.S. president Trump announces his decision to pull the U.S. out of the 7/14/15 Iran nuclear deal, the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), calling it “disastrous.” Trump reportedly plans to reimpose all sanctions waived in the context of the deal, and to impose new ones. (ALM, BBC, HA, JP, NYT 5/8)

Hours after Trump’s announcement, the IAF conducts air strikes on a military base near Damascus used by Iranian forces, killing at least 15 people, including 8 Iranian soldiers, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. The IDF also goes on high alert and instructs local authorities in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights to prepare bomb shelters in case of an Iranian attack from Syria. (HA, JP, YA 5/9)