The Palestine Chronology

In the West Bank, IDF troops open fire on Palestinians in Aida r.c., wounding 1 child with a rubber-coated metal bullet to the leg. The IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 2 villages nr. Hebron at night; patrols in 1 village each nr. Bethlehem and Hebron in the afternoon, and in 2 villages nr. Hebron at night. Jewish settlers torch 3 Palestinian vehicles nr. Beit El settlement in the Ramallah region, leaving “price-tag” graffiti. (MNA 12/31; PCHR 1/2)

In the West Bank, the IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in Tulkarm in the morning, and in 2 villages nr. Jenin at night; patrols in 2 villages nr. Jenin in the morning, and in 2 villages nr. Hebron and 1 village nr. Tulkarm at night. (PCHR 1/2)

Israel releases 26 Palestinian prisoners, the 3rd such group freed in conjunction with understandings reached at the onset of the peace negotiations broached in 7/2013. Three return home to the Gaza Strip, 5 to East Jerusalem, and 18 go home to the West Bank. There are official welcomes for the returning prisoners in both the Gaza Strip and Ramallah. In a separate development, Palestinian chief negotiator Erakat says that the peace talks have proved a failure, “foiled” by Israel. Erakat says that the PA should seek membership in international agencies and forums. (HA, MNA 12/30)

Reps. from Iran resume talks with their counterparts from the P5+1 in Geneva, to discuss details about the implementation of the landmark nuclear deal signed on 11/24. The talks are a 1-day affair, and negotiations are set to resume in 2014. (REU 12/30)

The Lebanese army fires anti-aircraft guns at 2 Syrian helicopters it claims violated the country’s air space to fire missiles in a mountainous area nr. the border, resulting in no damage or casualties. (AP 12/30)

In the Gaza Strip, Israeli forces strike an area nr. al-Maghazi r.c., wounding 2 Palestinians. In the West Bank, 1 Palestinian man dies at a mobile checkpoint nr. Jenin, after soldiers hold up a car en route to a hospital. The IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in Hebron and 3 nearby villages at night; patrols in Qalqilya in the morning and in 3 villages and al- ‘Arub r.c. nr. Hebron at night. (MNA 12/29; PCHR 1/2)

The Knesset’s Ministerial Cmte. for Legislation advances a proposed law to annex the Jewish settlements in the Jordan Valley by a vote of 8–3. The bill will proceed for consideration by the full Knesset with govt. backing, despite opposition from Justice Minister Livni and Fin. Min. Yair Lapid. Netanyahu is reported to have advised Likud ministers against voting for the law. Meanwhile, EU Amb. to Israel Lars Faaborg-Anderson lodges a protest over the 12/26 decision to build 1,400 new housing units in West Bank settlements. (HA 12/29)

Two Katyusha rockets are fired from within Lebanon land nr. Israeli town Kiryat Shmona, causing no damage or injuries. Three other rockets fall within Lebanese territory. In response, Israeli forces launch 33 shells into the border region of s. Lebanon, also causing no injuries. (AP, HA, JP, REU 12/29)

Israel reopens the Kerem Shalom border crossing following a 4-day closure, allowing the entry of goods such as industrial fuel to run the Gaza Strip’s sole power plant, which resumes a cycle of 8 hours on, 8 hours off. In addition, 8 truckloads of strawberries and tomatoes pass through the crossing into Israel; the goods are bound for European markets. (MNA, WAFA 12/29)

U.S. Defense Secy. Hagel speaks on the telephone with Egypt’s DM Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, and expresses concern about recent developments. Hagel urges for political inclusiveness ahead of the constitutional referendum scheduled for 1/2014. (REU 12/29)

In the West Bank, the IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 1 village nr. Hebron, Bethlehem, and Tulkarm r.c. at night; patrols in 1 village nr. Hebron and in Qalqilya at night. (PCHR 1/2)

The U.S. State Dept. announces that Secy. of State Kerry will return to the Middle East next week for separate meetings with Netanyahu and Abbas, his 10th such trip since 3/2013. (HA, JP, REU 12/28)

In the West Bank, Israeli forces open fire with live ammunition during a raid of Silwad village nr. Ramallah, wounding 4. The IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in Bethlehem at night; patrols in 3 villages nr. Hebron at night. Jewish settlers nr. Hebron cut down or vandalize around 40 Palestinianowned olive trees. 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). There are no serious injuries, except in Bil‘in where 1 is wounded by a bullet and Nabi Salih where 2 are wounded by rubber-coated metal bullets. (MNA 12/27; PCHR 1/2)

U.S. State Dept. spokesperson Jen Psaki says that Israel has informed the U.S. that the release of 26 Palestinian prisoners will be postponed 1 day, to 12/30. (MNA 12/27)

A car bomb in Beirut kills 7 people and wounds more than 50, including Mohammad Chatah, former minister and mbr. of the March 14 coalition. Former PM Saad Hariri hints that Hizballah is behind the attack and Fares Souaid, secy.-gen. of March 14, calls for the creation of a govt. that excludes Hizballah. (AFP, DS, REU 12/27)

Clashes break out across Egypt between supporters of the Muslim Brotherhood and security forces, 3 are killed and 87 wounded, with more than 250 arrested. The group’s supporters had gathered to protest the govt.’s classification of the Brotherhood as a terrorist organization on 12/24. (AFP, AP, REU 12/27)

Ali Akbar Velayati, senior adviser to Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, calls for new direct talks with the U.S. over Tehran’s nuclear program. Separately, the head of Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization, Ali Akbar Salehi, says that the country is building a new generation of centrifuges for uranium enrichment, in what is seen as a gesture toward hard-liners unhappy with the ongoing negotiations with reps. of the P5+1 in Geneva. (AP 12/27)

In the Gaza Strip, Palestinians fire 2 rockets into s. Israel, causing no damage or injuries. Israeli PM Netanyahu holds Hamas responsible for any attacks launched from the territory. The Israeli military conducts 1 air strike each in Gaza City and nr. Bayt Lahiya, causing some structural damage and wounding 2. In the West Bank, the IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in Hebron in the afternoon, and in 1 village nr. Jenin at night; patrols in Jenin and Hebron in the morning, in Jenin in the afternoon, and in 1 village and al-Fawar r.c. nr. Hebron and in 1 village nr. Jenin at night. Also, a Jewish settler driving nr. Salfit hits a Palestinian child, seriously injuring him. (AFP, HA, MNA, REU 12/26; PCHR 1/2)

Anonymous Israeli officials tell AFP that the govt. will announce plans for new settlement construction next week, to coincide with the scheduled release of Palestinian prisoners on 12/29. In response, Palestinian chief negotiator Erakat warns against such a step, saying that the Palestinians are ready to seek membership in 63 international organizations, including the International Criminal Court. An anonymous senior EU diplomat tells Israeli television that “there will be very little understanding from the European governments” to any such announcement. (AFP, HA, JP 12/26)

In the Gaza Strip, Palestinians fire 1 rocket into s. Israel, causing no damage or injuries. In the West Bank, Israeli forces clash with residents in Tulkarm during a patrol, wounding 1 Palestinian child struck on the head by a stun grenade. The IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in Nablus and 2 nearby villages, and 1 village nr. Jenin at night; patrols in 2 villages and al-‘Arub r.c. nr. Hebron, and 1 village nr. Nablus at night. (MNA 12/25; PCHR 12/26)

In the Gaza Strip, a Palestinian sniper shoots and kills an Israeli Ministry of Defense contractor working on the border fence nr. kibbutz Nahal Oz, an attack claimed by the Popular Resistance Cmtes. In response, the Israeli military launches attacks on 6 separate sites across the Gaza Strip, killing 1 child in al-Maghazi r.c. and wounding a total of 10. Separately, Israeli forces open fire on Palestinians collecting scrap metal close to the border fence nr. Bayt Lahiya, wounding 1 with live ammunition. In the West Bank, the IDF patrols in 2 villages and al-‘Arub r.c. nr. Hebron at night. The IDF also demolishes 15 houses in Ras Karkar and Dayr Ammar villages nr. Ramallah, as well as properties in Fasayil village in the n. Jordan Valley. Meanwhile, Palestinians throw stones at a bus carrying Israelis nr. Qalqilya, wounding 1. (HA, MNA, REU 12/24; YA 12/25; PCHR 12/26)

In an attack on a police headquarters in Egypt’s Nile Delta, a bomb kills 15 people and wounds more than 100. Authorities blame the Muslim Brotherhood, which for their part condemn the attack and deny any connection to it. The attack is subsequently claimed by Ansar Bayt al-Maqdis. Following the attack, Dep. PM Hossam Eissa reads a govt. statement declaring the Muslim Brotherhood a terrorist organization. In response to developments, the U.S. State Dept. condemns the bombing but also urges Egypt to have an “inclusive political process,” noting the Brotherhood’s condemnation of the attack. (AP, REU 12/24; AP, REU 12/25)

In the Gaza Strip, Israeli forces open fire on a Palestinian close to the border fence nr. Bayt Lahiya, seriously wounding him. The military claims that it targeted a suspect planting an explosive device. In the West Bank, the IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 3 villages nr. Hebron and in Nablus and Askar r.c. at night; patrols in 1 village nr. Hebron at night. Meanwhile, a Palestinian stabs an Israeli policemen at Jab’a junction nr. Ramallah, wounding him. (HA, JP, MNA 12/23; PCHR 12/26)

Palestinian chief negotiator Erakat rules out extending peace talks beyond the 9-mo. deadline, claiming that contradictory statements attributed to him had been misunderstood. Erakat also says that there had been no direct peace talks in several weeks, with the sides meeting separately with the Americans to advance the process. (AP, JP, ToI 12/23)

In Israel, an explosive device detonates on a bus in Bat Yam, causing no casualties as the vehicle had been evacuated. Israeli police describe it as a “terrorist attack,” and a Hamas spokesperson in Gaza describes the bombing as a “heroic act.” No group, however, claims responsibility. In the Gaza Strip, Palestinians fire 1 rocket into s. Israel, causing no damage or injuries. Separately, a rocket fired from inside the Gaza Strip lands in Egyptian territorial waters nr. Rafah, causing no injuries. Hamas authorities say that the rocket was fired during a training exercise and reached Egypt by mistake. In the West Bank, the IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 1 village nr. Jenin in the morning, and in 2 villages nr. Jenin and in 1 village each nr. Hebron and Tulkarm; patrols in 2 villages nr. Ramallah and 1 village nr. Jenin in the morning, in 2 villages and alFawar r.c. nr. Hebron, and in 2 villages nr. Salfit at night. (AFP, AP, HA, MNA, REU, YA 12/22; PCHR 12/26)

Asst. Secy.-Gen. on Palestinian affairs at the Arab League Mohammad Sbeih says that Kerry intends to present Palestinian and Israeli leaders with a framework peace deal by the end of the month. Sbeih also reveals Abbas’ position on the peace agreement, including refusal of any Israeli military presence in the Jordan Valley, the entirety of East Jerusalem as the capital, limited land swaps of equal value, and no recognition of Israel as a “Jewish state.” (AP, MNA, ToI 12/22)

Reps. from Iran and the P5+1 suspend their talks in Geneva to resume after Christmas. (REU 12/22)

In the Gaza Strip, Israeli forces open fire on Palestinian farmers close to the border fence nr. Khan Yunis, wounding 1. The army says it targeted the group because it was laying an explosive device. In the West Bank, the IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in Hebron and 2 nearby villages at night; patrols in 1 village nr. Hebron in the afternoon, and in 2 villages nr. Ramallah, in Nablus and Balata r.c., and 1 village each nr. Jenin and Jericho at night. (MNA 12/20; PCHR 12/26)

PA Pres. Abbas holds talks in Egypt with foreign ministers from Arab League mbr. states about the current state of the peace process. He also meets with Egyptian interim pres. Mansour to discuss regional developments and the national reconciliation effort with Hamas. (MNA 12/21)

Iran’s Dep. FM Abbas Araghchi says that talks in Geneva with reps. of the P5+1 are continuing for a 4th day and making slow progress. According to Araghchi, the issue of uranium enrichment is still a point of contention. (AP, JP 12/21)

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

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

In the West Bank, IDF troops shoot and kill a Palestinian man in Qalqilya during a raid. The IDF says that the man, a Palestinian intelligence officer, opened fire on them first. Locals say he was shot in the back. PA spokesperson Nabil Abu Rudeineh puts out a press release condemning the killing of 2 Palestinians in 24 hours in Jenin and Qalqilya. Also, the IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 2 villages nr. Hebron at night; patrols in Qalqilya in the afternoon, and in 2 villages nr. Hebron and Qalqilya at night. (MNA, PCHR, REU, WAFA 12/19)

Reps. from Iran resume talks with those of the P5+1 in Geneva, to work on how to put into practice the 6-mo. interim deal reached in 11/ 2013. Meanwhile, more than a quarter of the Senate—13 Democrats and 13 Republicans— cosponsors a new bill that would strengthen sanctions against Iran intensified should Tehran violate the deal White House spokesperson Jay Carney says that Obama would veto the new bill if Congress passes it, or any similar measure. (AFP, AP, REU 12/19)

In the Gaza Strip, Israeli troops open fire on agricultural areas nr. Khan Yunis, causing no casualties. In the West Bank, the IDF patrols in 1 village nr. Ramallah in the morning, in addition to 2 villages nr. Hebron and 1 village nr. Ramallah at night. Israeli forces also demolish Palestinian-owned structures in the n. Jordan Valley. In East Jerusalem, around 100 newly-recruited Israeli soldiers enter Haram alSharif escorted by police officers. (MNA, PCHR 12/10)

In Israel, attackers vandalize a dozen cars and leave racist graffiti in Akbara village nr. Safed. (MNA 12/10)

U.S. Secy. of State Kerry tells the House Foreign Affairs Cmte. that the Obama administration is requesting that negotiators be given time to do their jobs in talks with Iran, and for Congress to hold off on passing any new sanctions-related bills. Kerry affirms that it is a “very delicate diplomatic moment.” U.S. Senate Banking Cmte. chmn. Tim Johnson (D-SD) says he will not back new sanctions legislation at this time. Meanwhile in Geneva, Iranian delegation head Hamid Baeedinejad says that talks with the IAEA are going smoothly. The meeting is also attended by officials from the U.S., China, Britain, France, Germany, Russia, and the EU. (JP, REU 12/10)

U.S. Defense Secy. Hagel meets with the Qatari emir Shaykh Tamim bin Hamad and DM Hamad bin Ali al-Attiyah, and signs a 10-year defense cooperation agreement that will govern interaction between U.S. and Qatari forces. (REU 12/10)

In the Gaza Strip, IDF troops open fire on agricultural lands nr. Khan Yunis, causing no injuries. In the West Bank, the IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 1 village nr. Jenin in the afternoon, and in 3 villages nr. Hebron at night; patrols in Tulkarm in the morning, in 1 village each nr. Jenin and Tulkarm in the afternoon, and in 4 villages nr. Ramallah, 2 villages and al-‘Arub r.c. nr. Hebron at night. (PCHR 12/12) 

Israeli PM Netanyahu tells his Likud-Yisrael Beitenu faction at the Knesset that the govt. is not on the way to a final-status agreement with the Palestinians, ahead of U.S. Secy. of State Kerry’s on 12/11, his 9th trip to the region since taking office. Netanyahu also reportedly rejects the U.S. Gen. John Allen’s security plan, saying it was important to maintain Israeli forces on the border shared with Jordan. Meanwhile, PLO Secy.-Gen. Yasir ‘Abid Rabbuh also rejects the U.S. security proposals, which he says will lead to a “total failure” of Kerry’s efforts. Separately, PA Minister of Prisoners Issa Qarage says that any delays to the scheduled release of a 3rd group of Palestinian prisoners on 12/29 will be considered a serious blow to the peace process. (AFP, AP, JP 12/9)

Israel, Jordan, and the PA sign a watersharing agreement that includes the proposed construction of a desalination plant in Jordan on the Gulf of Aqaba, and a pilot study for a pipeline linking the Red Sea-Dead Sea. Israel also intends to sell more water from the Sea of Galilee to Jordan and to sell water to the PA at reduced rates. The agreement is signed at the World Bank in Washington. (See document A2 in JPS 171 for more on the water-sharing agreement.) (AFP, REU 12/9)

Ahmet Uzumcu, head of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), says that the removal of chemical weapons from Syria, scheduled in 2 stages for 12/31 and 2/5/14, may be delayed slightly due to the difficulties of operating during the ongoing violent conflict. (REU 12/9)

Mohamed Badie, leader of the Muslim Brotherhood in Egypt, appears in a Cairo court for the 1st time since being detained on 8/20. Meanwhile, Egyptian armed forces shoot and kill an Islamist militant nr. Shaykh Zuweidi in the Sinai Peninsula, describing him as a leader of Ansar Bayt al-Maqdis. (AP, JP, REU 12/9)

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, IDF troops shoot and kill a Palestinian child outside Jalazun r.c. nr. Ramallah, in response to a group of Palestinian youth throwing stones at Beit El settlement. The 14-year-old was shot in the back, and witnesses say that he was not participating in the stone throwing. The IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 1 village each nr. Hebron, Qalqilya and Ramallah, and in Jenin, and Jenin r.c. at night; patrols in 1 village nr. Salfit in the afternoon, and in 2 villages nr. Hebron, 1 village each nr. Qalqilya and Ramallah, and in Tulkarm at night. Also in the West Bank, Jewish settlers attack a Palestinian house and its residents in c. Hebron, causing some damage before Israeli forces intervene. Meanwhile, Palestinians, Israelis, and international activists participate in a demonstration in Nabi Salih to mark the 2nd anniversary of the killing of Mustafa al-Tamimi, a local resident. Israeli forces violently disperse the demonstrators, injuring 1 Palestinian with a live bullet to the jaw. In the Gaza Strip, IDF troops fire shells at Palestinian farmers nr. Bayt Hanun, causing no injuries. Meanwhile, media reports say that 3 rockets fired from inside Gaza land inside the territory, causing no casualties. (AFP, MNA 12/7; PCHR 12/12)

U.S. Pres. Obama says that the chances of reaching a comprehensive deal with Iran over its disputed nuclear program are 50-50 or worse, in comments made at the Saban Center for Middle East Policy at the Brookings Institution. (See document D1 in JPS 171 for extended excerpts of Obama’s remarks.) Meanwhile, IAEA spokesperson Behrouz Kamalvandi says that Tehran is proceeding with testing more efficient uranium enrichment technology, in remarks quoted by state news agency IRNA. (AP, IRNA, REU 12/7)

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

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

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

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

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

In the West Bank, the IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in Jenin at night; patrols in 2 villages nr. Hebron at night. (PCHR 12/12)

U.S. Secy. of State Kerry arrives in the region and holds talks with PA Pres. Abbas in Ramallah to discuss a possible future peace agreement with Israel and the state of the negotiations. A Palestinian negotiator tells the media that Kerry did not present a final proposal and that discussions will continue. Kerry meanwhile affirms that the goal is a “viable Palestinian state.” Kerry also holds talks with Israeli PM Netanyahu, where, in addition to discussing the peace process, the U.S. diplomat offers assurances that core sanctions targeting Iran would remain in place throughout the 6-mo. interim period agreed on in Geneva. (REU, WAFA 12/5)

In the West Bank, the IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in Jenin and 2 nearby villages, and 1 village nr. Ramallah at night; patrols in 1 village and al-‘Arub r.c. nr. Hebron and 1 village nr. Ramallah at night. In East Jerusalem, Jewish right-wing activists enter Haram al-Sharif, provoking clashes with Palestinian worshippers. (MNA 12/4; PCHR 12/5)

Israeli media reports that the Ministry of Defense is preparing to hand over 20,000 dunams of land in Area C to the PA, to be used for agricultural and commercial projects. (MNA 12/4)

Hizballah commander Hassan al-Laqqis is shot and killed outside his home in Beirut by unknown assailants. Laqqis had fought in Syria’s civil war. A previously unknown group, Ahrar al-Sunna Baalbek Brigade, claimed responsibility for the assassination on Twitter, but the claim could not be verified. In a statement broadcast on al-Manar TV, Hizballah accuses Israel of being behind the killing. Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs then issues a denial. (AFP, DS, REU 12/4)

Israeli television reports that construction of the 245-km (152-mi.) border fence between Israel and Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula has been completed, 3.5 years after work began. (JP 12/4)

Israel’s Environmental Affairs Minister Amir Peretz flies to Istanbul to attend a 4-day UN-sponsored conference on Mediterranean marine and coastal environment issues. He is the 1st Israeli cabinet minister to visit Turkey since the Mavi Marmara raid in 2010. (REU 12/4)

In the West Bank, IDF troops clash with residents in a village nr. Qalqilya during a raid, with 1 Palestinian wounded by a tear gas canister striking him on the hand. The IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 1 village nr. Jenin in the morning, and in 1 village and al-‘Arub r.c. nr. Hebron at night; patrols in Tulkarm and 1 village each nr. Jenin and Ramallah in the morning, in 1 village each nr. Hebron and Jenin in the afternoon, and in 2 villages each nr. Hebron and Jenin, and 1 village nr. Ramallah at night. IDF troops also demolish water wells and tents in 3 locations across the n. Jordan Valley. (MNA 12/3; PCHR 12/5)

A group of French experts rules out polonium poisoning as the cause of death for the late Palestinian leader Yasir Arafat, differing from the conclusions reached by Swiss scientists last mo. (See document A2 in JPS 170 for extended excerpts of the Swiss team’s report.) (AFP 12/3)

Andreas Reinicke, EU special rep. for the Middle East peace process, tells journalists at the European External Action Service in Brussels that at least half the EU’s mbr. states currently support labelling products manufactured in Israeli settlements. (ToI 12/3)

Palestinian UNRWA workers in the West Bank go on strike, protesting low salaries and the agency’s decision to not renew the contracts of 55 workers. (MEMO 12/3)

In a televised interview, Hizballah leader Shaykh Hasan Nasrallah accuses Saudi Arabia of being behind the suicide bombing attacks that targeted the Iranian Embassy in Beirut on 11/19. He dismisses claims that differences between Saudi Arabia and Iran are sectarian, saying that they are based on Riyadh’s desire to be the dominant regional influence. (AP, DS, REU 12/3)

Israel officially acknowledges for the 1st time that it is providing humanitarian aid along the border fence for victims of Syria’s civil war, an announcement made by DM Ya’alon during a visit to the occupied Golan Heights. (AP 12/3)

Off the n. coast of the Gaza Strip, Israeli naval vessels open fire on Palestinian fishermen, causing no casualties or damage to the boats. In the West Bank, the IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 2 villages and al-Fawar r.c. nr. Hebron, and in 1 village each nr. Ramallah and Tulkarm at night; patrols in 2 villages nr. Jericho in the morning, and in 2 villages nr. Hebron and 1 village nr. Jericho at night. Also, IDF troops bulldoze a dozen houses and agricultural buildings in the s. Jordan Valley n. of Jericho, leaving around 50 Palestinians homeless. (MNA 12/2; PCHR 12/5)

Israeli Defense Ministry figures obtained by NGO Peace Now show that DM Moshe Ya’alon approved construction of 3,000 housing units in West Bank settlements during the 1st 4 mos. of his term (3–7/2013). (HA 12/2)

The General Union of Palestinian Teachers launches an open strike. The union’s demands include a 2.03% increase of the cost-of-living salary, which has been deducted since the beginning of 2013. Abdul-Ghani al-Uweiei, spokesperson for the PA’s atty. gen., says that the minister of education has asked the atty. gen. to proceed with legal measures against the secy.-gen. of the teachers’ union. (MNA 2/12)

The Israeli army fires into Syria after its troops were shot at in the occupied Golan Heights. The original gunfire came from the Syrian side of the border, nr. Qunaytra, but it is unclear if it was intentional. No casualties are reported on either side. Separately, a Syrian mortar shell lands in Majdal Shams in the occupied Golan Heights, causing no casualties. Meanwhile, UN human rights chief Navi Pillay says that evidence collected by UN investigators implicates Pres. Asad in the commission of war crimes. (HA, REU 2/12)

The Lebanese govt. authorizes the army to take charge of security in Tripoli for 6 mos., following frequent violent clashes between supporters and opponents of Syria’s Pres. Asad. The latest round of fighting saw 12 killed and more than 100 wounded. (AP 12/2)

In the Gaza Strip, Israeli forces shoot at Palestinian farmers working close to the perimeter fence nr. Rafah, causing no injuries. In the West Bank, the IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in Hebron and 2 villages and al-‘Arub r.c. nearby, and 1 village each nr. Bethlehem and Ramallah at night; patrols in Hebron and al-‘Arub r.c. in the afternoon, and in 1 village nr. Hebron, and 1 village nr. Qalqilya at night. In East Jerusalem, Israeli security forces escort 24 Jewish Israelis at Haram al-Sharif, prompting clashes with worshippers. (MNA 12/1; PCHR 12/5)

An anonymous official in Israeli PM Netanyahu’s office says that the govt. will not be proceeding with the preliminary planning procedures for 24,000 settlement homes, as previously indicated on the Housing Ministry’s website. Israeli TV reports that the PA directly appealed to U.S. Secy. of State Kerry about the matter, threatening to quit the negotiations if the tenders were not cancelled. Meanwhile, PA Pres. Abbas meets with opposition leader MK Isaac Herzog in Ramallah, and tells him he is keen to reach an agreement with Israel. In a statement released after the meeting, Herzog says, “We have a partner that is ready to go the distance for peace and take original, brave steps on core issues.” (HA, JP 12/1) 

Iranian pres. Ruhani says construction will soon start on a 2nd nuclear power plant, according to local media reports. Meanwhile, Iranian FM Zarif meets with his Kuwaiti counterpart Shaykh Sabah Khaled al-Sabah, on his 1st official visit to a Gulf Arab country. Following the meeting, Zarif says that the 6-mo. interim deal with the West is in the Gulf states’ interests. (AFP, JP 12/1)

Egyptian security forces violently disperse anti-govt. demonstrators in Cairo’s Tahrir Square, as the cmte. charged with amending the constitution approves changes to the text in the 2nd day of discussions. The new constitution give women and Christians “suitable representation” and also stipulates there must be elections, either parliamentary or presidential, within 90 days of the document’s adoption. The use of military tribunals for civilians is also scaled back, to be permitted only in cases of attacks on military personnel or property. However, the armed forces are given the exclusive right to name the defense minister for the next 2 presidential terms. The draft constitution is now handed over to Egyptian interim pres. Adly Mansour who has 1 mo. to call a national referendum. (AP, REU 12/1)

In Israel, security forces in Petah Tikva shoot and kill a Palestinian worker from a village nr. Nablus, during a police-led search for Palestinians without permits. In the West Bank, IDF troops clash with residents in 1 village nr. Jenin during a raid. In 1 village nr. Ramallah, Jewish settlers attack property and residents who in turn fight back with stone-throwing. As a result, Israeli forces fire tear gas grenades at the Palestinian villagers, causing no serious injuries. The IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 3 villages nr. Jenin at night; patrols in 1 village nr. Jenin in the afternoon, and in 2 villages nr. Hebron and 1 village each nr. Qalqilya and Ramallah at night. In Sur al-Bahir, East Jerusalem, a Palestinian family demolishes 3 apartments in an effort to avoid the charges associated with a demolition conducted by the municipality. (MNA 11/30; PCHR 12/5)

Thousands of demonstrators protest against the proposed Prawer Plan in several locations across Israel, including the Negev village Hura, Haifa, nr. Highway 444 in the “Triangle,” Jerusalem, and Jaffa, with a total of 34 arrests nationwide. The largest protest is in Hura, where protesters throw stones and the police retaliate. Israeli FM Lieberman harshly attacks the protesters, and says the govt. is “fighting for the lands of the Jewish people.” Solidarity protests also take place nr. Ramallah, where Palestinians clash with Israeli forces nr. Beit El settlement, and in Gaza City. (HA, JP, MNA, REU, YA 11/30; ToI 12/2)

Egypt’s 50-mbr. constituent assembly votes on 138 articles of the 247-article draft constitution, limiting the scope of Shari‘a law and allowing the army to try civilians in military tribunals. Meanwhile U.S. Defense Secy. Chuck Hagel calls DM Abdel Fattah al-Sisi to express concern about a new law curbing protests, according to a statement by Dept. of Defense spokesperson Carl Woog. Also in Egypt, security forces kill 3 mbrs. of al-Tawhid walJihad, a militant group, in the n. Sinai nr. Shaykh Zuweid. (AP, NYT, MNA 11/30)

In the Gaza Strip, IDF troops open fire on Palestinian farmers working close to the border fence nr. Khan Yunis r.c., causing no injuries. Separately, IDF troops open fire on stone-throwing Palestinians nr. Jabaliya r.c., wounding 1. In the West Bank, a Palestinian man dies from wounds inflicted when Israeli soldiers shot him in the head on 3/1 with a rubber-coated metal bullet during clashes at the entrance to Qalandia r.c. nr. Ramallah. Following his funeral, there are clashes at Qalandia checkpoint between stone-throwing Palestinian youth and Israeli soldiers who fire live ammunition and tear gas, with 1 Palestinian injured from a bullet to the leg. Separately, in al-‘Izzariya and Abu Dis neighborhoods of East Jerusalem, IDF troops shoot and injure 2 Palestinians with live ammunition during protests against the death of a Palestinian delayed at a checkpoint en route to hospital the previous day. The IDF patrols in 1 village nr. Ramallah in the morning, in Dura and surrounding area nr. Hebron in the afternoon, and in Hebron and al-‘Arub and 5 nearby villages, and in 2 villages nr. Ramallah at night. IDF troops violently disperse Palestinian, Israeli, and international protesters at weekly demonstrations against Israel’s separation wall, settlements, and occupation in 2 villages nr. Ramallah (Bil‘in, Nabi Salih), 1 village nr. Qalqilya (Kafr Qaddum) and 1 village nr. Bethlehem (al-Ma‘sara). There are no serious injuries except in Bil‘in, with 2 injured by rubber-coated metal bullets, and in Kafr Qaddum with 2 injured by gas canisters. (MNA 11/29; PCHR 12/5)

A senior but unnamed official within Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs tells the media that Israel has been invited to join the UNHRC’s Western European and Others Group. The development was made possible by Israel ending its boycott of the UNHRC in 10/2013, as well as agreeing to participation in its Universal Periodic Human Rights Review process. On 11/6, ambassadors of the U.K., Australia, Canada, Germany, France, and the U.S. sent a letter to the UN institutions in Geneva to urge the inclusion of Israel in the regional group. (HA, ToI 11/29)

In a White House statement, the Obama administration confirms it is keeping oilrelated sanctions targeting Iran in place despite the recently-signed deal. Meanwhile, Tehran’s envoy to the IAEA tells the agency’s board in Geneva that the implementation of the deal will start by early 1/2014. Separately, Iranian pres. Ruhani says that his country will not decommission its nuclear plants. (AP, FT, REU 11/29)

The executive council of the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons in The Hague rejects a request from Syria to convert facilities used to produce chemical weapons to other activities. (NYT 11/29)

Egyptian security forces violently disperse demonstrations in various parts of Cairo with tear gas and water cannons, as supporters of ousted pres. Morsi express their opposition to a new law restricting protests. There are also similar clashes in Giza, Alexandria, and Suez. According to Interior Ministry figures, 10 are wounded and 183 arrested. (AP 11/29)

In the West Bank, a Palestinian teenager dies on her way to hospital after being delayed by a closed Israeli checkpoint en route to Bethlehem. Separately, Palestinians and Israeli soldiers clash at the entrance to Aida r.c. in Bethlehem, with 3 Palestinians injured, including 1 by live ammunition. An Israeli toddleris injured when unknown attackers stone the car she was traveling in, nr. Sur al-Bahir. Meanwhile, around 150 Jewish settlers throw stones at Palestinian vehicles nr. Bethlehem, causing damage but no injuries. The IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 1 village each nr. Jenin and Ramallah at night; patrols in Hebron and nearby al-‘Arub r.c. and 2 villages (clashes in all of the above), and 1 village nr. Jenin in the afternoon, and in 1 village each nr. Hebron, Jenin and Tulkarm at night. (HA, MNA 11/28; PCHR 12/5)

Israel’s Central Bureau of Statistics publishes data revealing that the number of West Bank settler housing starts grew by 132% in the 1st 9 mos. of 2013, compared with the same time period in 2012. (JP 11/28)

Yukiya Amano, head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), says that Iran has invited the agency to inspect the Arak heavy-water production plan on 12/8, as part of the new 6-mo. interim deal. Amano also says that the IAEA will need more money to verify the implementation of the deal. (AP, REU 11/28)

Off the coast of the Gaza Strip nr. Rafah, Israeli naval vessels open fire on Palestinian fishermen, causing no injuries, but arresting 2. Demonstrations take place across the West Bank in protest of the killing of 3 Palestinians in Yatta the previous day. Demonstrations in Hebron and outside Ofer detention center nr Ramallah lead to clashes with IDF troops. Outside Ofer, Israeli forces fire live ammunition, rubber-coated metal bullets and tear gas canisters, while demonstrators throw stones and set fire to tires. No serious injuries are reported. In Hebron, stone-throwing Palestinians are met with tear gas from Israeli soldiers. Also in the West Bank, the IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 1 village each nr. Hebron and Jenin at night; patrols in Tulkarm in the morning, and in 2 villages nr. Hebron at night. (MNA, WAFA, YA 11/27; PCHR 11/28)

Palestinian chief negotiator Erakat says that Israeli policies, including continued settlement construction and arrest raids have led him to believe that there is no room for progress, hence his resignation on 11/13. Erakat says that the most recent meeting of the Israeli and Palestinian negotiating teams took place on 11/5. Erakat also says that he believes the Russians would become more involved, pointing to Pres. Abbas’ scheduled visit to Moscow next month. (HA 11/27)

The Syrian govt. announces that it will attend the UN-sponsored negotiations in 1/2014 (announced 11/25), according to a report by state news agency SANA, but will also resist demands for Pres. Bashar al-Asad to step down. Meanwhile, the Syrian National Coalition pres. Ahmad Jarba, declares that the group will participate in the conference; he hopes it will facilitate the emergence of a transitional govt. (AP, NYT, REU 11/27)

Iranian FM Mohammad Javad Zarif says that construction on building projects at the Arak nuclear facility is allowed as part of the nuclear agreement. U.S. State Dept. spokesperson Jen Psaki says in response that, while road or building work might be permissible, any kind of nuclear fuel production or reactor work is not allowed. Meanwhile, U.S. Pres. Obama briefs Saudi Arabia’s King Abdallah on the recent deal with Iran, with the White House saying that the 2 leaders agreed to consult regularly on the efforts of the P5+1 countries to secure a long-term agreement. Separately, Israeli strategic affairs minister Yuval Steinitz meets with British officials in Jerusalem to discuss recent developments and Israel’s concerns with a potential deal between Iran and the P5+1. (AP 11/27)

In the West Bank, IDF troops kill 3 Palestinians in a raid on Yatta village nr. Hebron. The Israeli military claims that the dead men were suspected of planning an attack in the coming days and belonged to a Salafist terror cell. Palestinian factions in Hebron declare a day of mourning. The IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in Hebron and 1 nearby village at night; patrols in 1 village nr. Ramallah in the morning, and in 5 villages nr. Hebron and 1 village nr. Ramallah at night. Also in the West Bank, Jewish settlers attack a Palestinian home with Molotov cocktails in Burin village nr. Nablus, causing property damage but no injuries. In the Gaza Strip, IDF troops shoot and wound 1 Palestinian man nr. the border fence. (JP, MNA 11/26; PCHR 11/28)

Senior Palestinian official Nabil Shaath says that the Palestinian leadership is preparing to join international bodies and ratify agreements such as the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court, due to the lack of progress in the peace talks. Shaath also confirms that Saeb Erakat’s resignation (11/13) was not accepted by Pres. Abbas, and thus Erakat continues in a caretaker role. (MNA 11/26)

Israel and the EU finalize an agreement to allow Israel’s participation in the Horizon 2020 scientific research project. Following lengthy talks between Israeli justice minister Tzipi Livni and EU foreign affairs chief Catherine Ashton, a compromise formula is reached. This includes the publication of an appendix stating the applicability of the EU’s funding guidelines approved in 7/2013, which renders ineligible entities based in West Bank settlements, accompanied by an Israeli appendix stating the govt.’s opposition to those guidelines. (HA, REU, ToI 11/26)

Gen. Salim Idriss, leader of the FSA, tells Al Jazeera that his group plans to shun the peace conference that UN Secy.-Gen. Ban Ki-moon announced on 11/25, claiming that “conditions are not suitable” for the talks. Meanwhile, the Syrian National Coalition (SNC) issues a statement saying it wants to see progress on the ground through the establishment of humanitarian corridors and a release of political prisoners, before it decides whether to attend the talks. (AP, REU 11/26)

U.S. Secy. of State John Kerry addresses Congress in a video message, and places the onus on Iran to prove that their nuclear program is peaceful. In an effort to reassure lawmakers who criticized the 6-mo. interim deal as being too soft on the Iranian govt., Kerry affirms that, should the agreement fall apart, Tehran would face “even tougher sanctions.” Meanwhile, marking his 1st 100 days in office, Pres. Ruhani says in a TV interview that Iran’s enemies were now “isolated” following the deal. (AP 11/26; JP 11/27)

Egyptian armed forces kill Mohammed Hussein Muhareb, the leader of a militant group in the Sinai Peninsula, nr. Shaykh Zuweid. Muhareb was wanted for various attacks on state security forces. (AP 11/26)

In the West Bank at night, IDF troops conduct house searches and arrest raids in Hebron and 2 nearby villages; Jenin, Jenin r.c., and 1 nearby village; 2 villages nr. Bethlehem; and Balata r.c. nr. Nablus. IDF troops also patrol in Tulkarm in the morning, in 3 villages nr. Tulkarm in the afternoon, and 3 villages nr. Jenin, 2 villages nr. Hebron, and 1 village nr. Tulkarm at night. (PCHR 11/28)

Reps. from Iran and the P5+1 reach a deal in Geneva. The “Joint Plan of Action” establishes a 6-mo. interim period, in which the 2 sides swap confidence-building measures to facilitate negotiations over a long-term agreement. Specific measures include a 5% limit on Iran’s uranium enrichment, well below the level required for weapons-grade material, and approximately $4.2 b. in sanctions relief. (To read the full text of the agreement, see document A1 in JPS 171.) The interim deal is endorsed by Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and Pres. Hassan Ruhani, while U.S. Pres. Barack Obama says the agreement cuts off Tehran’s possible routes to a nuclear bomb. Separately, reports surface in the media that the U.S. and Iran had been holding secret talks since 3/2013, away from the P5+1 track, reportedly led by Dep. Secy. of State William Burns. It is also reported that Obama advised Netanyahu of these talks in 9/2013. (AP, HA, REU 11/24; AP 11/25)

In the West Bank, IDF troops clash with Palestinians trying to stop Jewish settlers from stoning cars outside the entrance to Jalazun r.c., wounding 5 with live ammunition and 10 with rubber-coated metal bullets. IDF troops also clash with residents of a village nr. Ramallah during a raid, wounding 1 child in the leg with live ammunition. At night, IDF troops conduct house searches and arrest raids in 3 villages nr. Hebron and 1 village nr. Bethlehem; patrols in 1 village each nr. Hebron and Ramallah. In al-Khadir nr. Bethlehem, Palestinian activists break a hole through the separation wall alongside Route 60. (MNA 11/23; PCHR 11/28)

Egyptian authorities close the Rafah crossing with Gaza for a 2nd consecutive day. (AFP, MNA 11/23)