Thursday, April 19, 2012

The IDF patrols in Tulkarm, 2 villages nr. Jenin (in 1 instance firing stun grenades at stone-throwing Palestinian youths who confront them), 2 nr. Ramallah, and 1 nr. Jericho in the morning; patrols in 1 village each nr. Jenin and Ramallah in the afternoon; and conducts synchronized late-night patrols 2 villages nr. Jenin. (PCHR 4/26; OCHA 4/27)

The Washington Post runs a special report on Hamas, concluding that after 5 yrs. in power in Gaza, the movement is “fast losing popularity” because it has not provided promised services (e.g., stipends for rebuilding homes destroyed in Israel’s Operation Cast Lead, steady supplies of electricity and water) and is increasingly seen as corrupt (e.g., what benefits are available go to Hamas cadres, Hamas officials living better than most and more concerned about keeping their positions of privilege than providing for the people). (WP 4/19)