The Palestine Chronology

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers establish a new settlement outpost outside of al-Lubban ash-Sharqiya near the Eli settlement. Israeli settlers also throw stones at homes in Jalud. Elsewhere, Israeli settlers assault Palestinians during raids in Turmus ‘Ayya, al-Lubban ash-Shariqya, Arab al-Milehat, and Fawwar refugee camp. In East Jerusalem, Israeli authorities force a Palestinian family to demolish their own home in Isawiya. Israeli forces prevent Palestinians from reaching the Haram al-Sharif compound and assault 2 Palestinians in the Old City. In Gaza, Israeli forces bomb al-Bureij, Gaza City, Jabalia refugee camp, Rafah, Beit Hanun, Khan Yunis, Dayr al-Balah, and Bayt Lahiya, killing at least 81 people. 3 Israeli soldiers are killed in combat. In Lebanon, Israeli forces bomb Ramyeh, Jabal Balat, Chihine, and Ayta ash Shab, killing 1 person in Ramyeh. In Syria, an Israel airstrike on Baniyas kills 3 people, including a member of the Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. In Yemen, U.S. forces bomb a missile launch site. (AJ, AJ, HA, HA, REU, UNOCHA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 3/1; AJ 3/2; HA 3/3; UNCOHA 3/4)

More than 30,228 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces in Gaza, including at least 13,230 children and 8,860 women, and around 71,377 have been injured since 10/7/2023. At least 7,000 people are missing in rubble, including 1,700 children. 409 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces and settlers in the West Bank and East Jerusalem since 10/7/2023, including 103 children. More than 4,606 people have been injured. Israel reports that 1,139 Israelis and foreign nationals have been killed and 5,400 have been injured in Israel since 10/7/2023, including Israeli soldiers. In addition, 243 Israeli soldiers have been killed and 1,432 injured in Gaza since the ground invasion began on 10/27/2023. Over 1.93 million Palestinians, nearly 85% of the population of Gaza, have been displaced since 10/7/2023. There has been a complete electricity blackout in Gaza since 10/12/2023 due to the Israeli blockade. At least 70,000 housing units have been destroyed and 290,000 have been damaged in Israeli airstrikes since 10/7/2023, constituting over 60% of all housing units. The WHO delivers 5,000 gallons of fuel and medical supplies to al-Shifa Hospital. Jordan conducts 3 airdrops of aid in northern Gaza. 133 trucks carrying aid enter Gaza. (AJ, UNOCHA, WAFA 3/1; UNOCHA, UNOCHA 3/4)

CNN reports that Israel is prohibiting anesthetics, anesthesia machines, oxygen cylinders, water filtration systems, sleeping bags, medicines for cancer treatments, water purification tablets, maternity kits, and dates from entering Gaza. (CNN 3/1; AJ 3/3)

The PA calls for sanctions on Israel in response to the Flour Massacre. Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov says Hamas has agreed, in writing, to respect the PLO platform after meetings of Palestinian parties in Moscow. The Palestinian parties represented at the Moscow meeting issue a statement saying there will be an “upcoming dialogue” to bring them all under the banner of the PLO. (AJ, GDN 3/1)

Israel’s military and the Shin Bet announces that Israel has released dozens of Palestinians held in administrative detention to free up space in Israeli prisons. (HA 2/29; HA 3/1)

Al-Awda Hospital acting director Mohammed Salha says 142 out of 176 wounded in the Flour Massacre on 2/29 arriving at the hospital in Jabalia were injured by gunshots. Spokesperson for the UN secretary-general, Stephane Dujarric, says a UN team sent to al-Shifa Hospital confirmed that “a large number of gunshot wounds” were found on people injured at the massacre. (AJ 3/1; AJ 3/2)

Israel tells Egypt and Qatar that it will not engage in ceasefire negotiations until Hamas sends a list of Israeli captives that are alive. Hamas says its investigation into personnel it has lost contact with confirmed that 7 captives have been killed in Israeli attacks in recent weeks. (AJ, AJ, AX, REU, REU 3/1)

U.S. president Joe Biden says U.S. airdrops of aid will start in the “coming days.” Oxfam says the airdrop plans “mostly serve to relieve the guilty consciences of senior US officials whose policies are contributing to the ongoing atrocities and risk of famine in Gaza,” saying airdrops only provide a symbolic amount of aid. National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby says the U.S. is working to establish a maritime corridor for aid to enter Gaza and that the U.S. continues to push Israel to allow more aid trucks to enter and open more crossings. Kirby also says that the U.S. cannot verify Israel’s claim that Palestinians died in a stampede during the Flour Massacre. USAID administrator Samantha Power says settler violence “is intolerable and must stop.” (AJ, AX, HA, HA, NYT, REU, REU 3/1; AJ, AP 3/2)

The European Commission says it will transfer $54.2 million to UNRWA next week as part of its pledge to donate $162.5 million in 2024, ending the EU freeze on aid to the agency. EU high commissioner for foreign affairs Josep Borrell calls UNRWA “an irreplaceable actor.” Commission president Ursula von der Leyen says she is “deeply disturbed” by the Flour Massacre, calling for an investigation. (AJ, AP, HA, REU 3/1)

The ICJ says Nicaragua has instituted proceedings against Germany for failing to live up to its obligations to prevent genocide by providing political, financial, and military support to Israel. (HA, REU 3/1; AJ, AJ 3/2)

200 parliamentarians from 13 EU countries call for an arms embargo on Israel. (AJ 3/2)

A BBC Verify investigation into Israel’s claim that Israeli forces have killed more than 10,000 Hamas fighters shows that there is little evidence to back Israel’s claim based on Israel’s own posts on YouTube and Telegram. (BBC 3/1)

In the West Bank, a Palestinian man succumbed to injuries sustained from Israeli forces in al-Fara’a refugee camp on 12/8. Israeli settlers threw stones at Palestinian vehicles traveling near al-Lubban ash-Sharqiya; no injuries were reported. Israeli forces shot and killed a Palestinian man, claiming he had stabbed an Israeli soldier with a knife during an Israeli raid in Dura. Israeli forces also shot and killed a Palestinian child during a raid in ‘Azzun. In East Jerusalem, Israeli authorities delivered evacuation orders to several Palestinian families living on around 9 dunams (2.2 acres) of land in the Moroccan Gate area of the Old City, giving them 60 days to file objections. In Gaza, Israeli forces bombed Rafah, Khan Yunis, Nuseirat refugee camp, Gaza City Dayr al-Balah, Maghazi, Jabaliya refugee camp, and al-Bureij refugee camp, killing more than 200 people. Israel continued its siege of al-Awda Hospital in Jabalia refugee camp for the third day in a row, injuring 2 health workers. Israeli forces also shot and injured 2 paramedics in an ambulance outside of the European Hospital in Khan Yunis. The Red Crescent delivered medical supplies to al-Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza City and evacuated 19 patients; 1 of the patients died during the evacuation and 1 Red Crescent staffer was beaten and interrogated for 4 hours by Israeli forces. 4 Israeli soldiers were killed in combat. In Tzrifin, an Israeli soldier was injured after being hit by a car; 2 were arrested, including a man from Rahat and a man from Qalqilya in the West Bank. In Lebanon, Israel attacked several targets and Hezbollah said it had attacked an Israeli naval base. In the Red Sea, France said a French warship had shot down 2 drones near Yemen. (AJ, AJ, AJ, HA, HA, NYT, NYT, REU, UNOCHA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 12/9; AJ, AP 12/10)

More than 17,700 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces in Gaza, including at least 7,729 children and 5,153 women, and around 49,300 have been injured since 10/7. At least 7,000 people were missing in rubble, including 1,700 children. 267 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces and settlers in the West Bank and East Jerusalem since 10/7, including 69 children. More than 3,387 people have been injured. Israel reported that 1,200 Israelis and foreign nationals have been killed and 5,400 have been injured since 10/7. 101 Israeli soldiers have been killed in Gaza since the ground invasion began on 10/27. Over 1.93 million Palestinians, nearly 85% of the population of Gaza, have been displaced since 10/7. There has been a complete electricity blackout in Gaza since 10/12 due to the Israeli blockade. As of 12/3, at least 52,000 housing units had been destroyed and 253,000 had been damaged in Israeli airstrikes since 10/7, constituting 60% of all housing units. The World Food Programme reported that 91% of Palestinians in Gaza were experiencing hunger, with 36% experiencing severe hunger. The Palestinian Civil Defense said it only had 1 vehicle left operating in northern Gaza. Around 100 trucks carrying aid entered Gaza. (AJ, AJ, AJ, HA, REU, UNOCHA, UNOCHA, WAFA 12/9)

Haaretz reported that the autopsy reports for at least 2 of the 6 Palestinian prisoners that have died in Israeli detention since 10/7 showed that their bodies were bruised and had broken bones, suggesting that violence may have killed them. (HA 12/9)

Videos by Israeli soldiers of Palestinians in the underwear surrendering to Israeli forces in Jabalia refugee camps circulated in the media. However, the videos were reportedly staged as in 1 video a man is shown surrendering a weapon while holding it in his right hand while a nearly identical video shows the same man surrendering a weapon while holding it in his left hand. Videos of Israeli soldiers vandalizing Palestinian property and raising Israeli flags in Gaza also circulated. (HA, UNOCHA 12/9; AJ, HA, UNOCHA 12/10; HA 12/11)

Responding to videos of hundreds of Palestinians detained by Israeli forces in Gaza stripped to their underwear, advisor to Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Mark Regev, said the Middle East is warmer than Europe so “to be asked to take off your shirt, it might not be pleasant, but it is not the end of the world.” Israel later claimed that 10-15% of the Palestinians in the videos were Hamas operatives or identified with the Hamas. Israeli national security advisor Tzachi Hanegbi claimed that Israel has killed 7,000 members of Palestinian militant groups during its attacks on Gaza. Israeli defense minister Yoav Gallant visited Israeli soldiers in northern Gaza. (HA 12/9; AJ, HA 12/10)

A UN official said Israel was testing the screening process for the delivery of aid to Gaza through the Karim Abu Salem (Kerem Shalom) crossing. (HA, REU 12/9)

The PA issued corrections to an interview given by Prime Minister Mohammed Shtayyeh to Bloomberg News on 12/7, saying Shtayyeh had not said that the PA and the U.S. were discussing “a plan to manage Gaza.” (WAFA 12/9)

The foreign ministers of the PA, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia met with Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau in Ottawa. (WAFA 12/9; AJ 12/10)

German chancellor Olaf Scholz spoke with Prime Minister Netanyahu, calling for more aid to be delivered to Gaza and expressing concern over settler violence. (HA 12/9)

Yemen’s Houthi-led government said it would prevent Israeli ships and ships traveling to Israeli ports from operating near Yemeni maritime borders but would respect other international seafaring. (AJ, AJ, HA, HA, NYT 12/9; HA 12/10)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers threw stones at Palestinian-owned vehicles in the Old City of Hebron, causing damage. 20 Palestinians were arrested during late-night raids in Beit Sira, Hebron, Jenin, Tubas, Tulkarm, and Qalandia refugee camp. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinians protesting Israeli air strikes on Gaza at the Damascus Gate plaza, assaulting several and arresting 1. In Gaza, Israel continued its assault on Gaza for the 2d day in a row, assassinating Islamic Jihad commander in southern Gaza Khaled Mansour, using fighter jets to fire 6 missiles on a 3-story building in Rafah refugee camp; 2 other members of Islamic Jihad were killed in the assassination, as were 4 others, including 1 child. 35 were injured, including 18 children. Israel further killed 7 other Palestinians in air strikes: 2 on a street in Beit Hanun; 2 riding a motorcycle in Khan Yunis; 2 near a market in Khan Yunis; and 1 while firing a mortar shell east of Jabaliya. Additionally, 7 Palestinians were killed in an explosion in Jabaliya refugee camp, including 4 children; it was unclear whether the explosion was caused by an Israeli missile or misfire of an Islamic Jihad rocket. This raises the death toll from Israel’s Operation Breaking Dawn to 31 since 8/5, including 10 children. 265, including 95 children, have been injured. The Gaza power plant stopped operations in the middle of the day due to a lack of fuel. 2 Israeli soldiers were reportedly lightly injured by a mortar shell. (AJ, AJ, AJ, AJ, ALM, ALM, AP, AX, GDN, HA, HA, MDW, MDW, MEE, MEMO, MEMO, NYT, PCHR, PCHR, PCHR, UNOCHA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 8/6; AJ, AJ, AP, CNN, F24, HA, HA, HA, HA, HA, HA, JP, NYT, REU, TOI, WAFA 8/7; HA, UNOCHA 8/8; AHQ 8/9; PCHR, REU 8/11; HA 8/13 HA 8/16; UNOCHA 8/19; MDW 9/1)

The UNRWA closed all of its facilities, except for health services, in Gaza due to the Israeli attacks. (WAFA 8/6)

Islamic Jihad leader Ziad al-Nakhala met with head of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps Hossein Salami in Tehran. Major-General Salami told al-Nakhala that Palestinians are not alone in their struggle against Israel. (AJ 8/6)

U.S. national security council spokesperson John Kirby said that the U.S. is working with Israeli and Palestinian partners to achieve calm in Gaza but “remain[s] unwavering in our commitment to Israel’s security.” Spokesperson Kirby also said that the U.S. “absolutely fully supports Israel’s right to defend itself against terrorist groups.” Secretary of defense Lloyd Austin “expressed concern regarding reports of civilian deaths and called for a timely and thorough investigation into any civilian casualties,” according to a readout of Austin’s conversation with Israeli defense minister Benny Gantz. (AJ, HA, WAFA 8/6; MDW 8/10)

In the West Bank, 1 Palestinian minor, shot by Israeli forces on 5/12, succumbed to his wounds. Israeli settlers shot and injured 1 Palestinian while raiding Bani Na‘im. Israeli settlers with military escort also raided Silat al-Harithiyya, leading to confrontations; no injuries were reported. Elsewhere, Israeli settlers also blocked a main road to al-Bireh and threw stones at Palestinian vehicles, causing damage. Israeli settlers also threw stones at Palestinian vehicles near Bayt Jala and al-Walaja. Israeli forces shot and killed 1 Palestinian using live ammunition during a Nakba Day protest in Zeita, near Tulkarm. Israeli forces also violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in Aida refugee camp, causing tear-gas related injuries. Elsewhere, Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in Tura, injuring 1 with live ammunition. Israeli forces also violently dispersed Palestinian protesters at a checkpoint near Huwwara, injuring 1 with a rubber-coated bullet; others suffered tear-gas related injuries. Separately, Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in Hebron, injuring 1 with live ammunition and 1 with rubber-coated bullets; others suffered tear-gas related injuries. Israeli forces also violently dispersed Palestinian protesters in Bayt Umar, leading to tear-gas related injuries. 7 Palestinians were arrested, including 2 during house raids in al-Khadir and Dura, and 5 during protests near Jenin. In East Jerusalem, Israeli settlers with military escort raided Bayt Hanina and Shu‘fat refugee camp, leading to confrontations; 2 Palestinians were injured by the Israeli forces in Bayt Hanina. Israeli settlers later raided Shu‘fat refugee camp again, injuring 2 Palestinians with live ammunition. Israeli forces shot and killed 1 Palestinian, saying he had intentionally rammed 7 officers, who were lightly injured, in Shaykh Jarrah; 1 journalist was physically assaulted at the scene and others had stun grenades thrown at them. 25 Palestinians were arrested. In Gaza, 50 Palestinians were killed, including 19 children, and dozens were injured, raising the comprehensive death toll since 5/10 from 153 to 203, including 60 children and 2 pregnant women. The casualties included: 43, including 19 children, and dozens wounded in air strikes hitting residential buildings in Gaza City; 1, and 2 wounded in a drone strike in Jabaliya; 1, and 11 injured in air strikes on a residential buildings in Nuseirat; 3 in air strikes on Bayt Hanun; 2 in a drone strike on a house in Rafah. Israel also attacked and demolished the homes of Hamas leader in Gaza Yahya Sinwar and his brother in Khan Yunis; no injuries were reported in the air strikes. In Israel, rockets from Gaza hit 1 house in Ashdod and damaged 5 vehicles in Ashkelon; no injuries were reported. Israel’s defense minister Benny Gantz extended the state of emergency in Lydda for 48 hours. Israel arrested 1 Palestinian-Israeli imam Shaykh Kamal Khatib, the deputy leader of the northern faction of the Islamic Movement in Israel, saying he had made incendiary remarks about Israel’s attacks on al-Aqsa Mosque. 28 people were wounded in a subsequent protest in Kafr Kana where he was arrested, including many by Israeli live ammunition. 8 Palestinian-Israelis were arrested in Taiba and Qalansawe. 2 Jordanian citizens were arrested in Gilboa after having crossed from Jordan into Israel. (AJ, AJ, AJ, AJ, AP, CNN, HA, HA, NPR, NYT, PCHR, REU, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 5/16; PCHR 5/17; ALM 5/19; HA, PCHR 5/20; MEE 5/21; HA 5/25; NYT 5/26; AP 6/2; NYT 6/24)

Egypt opened the Rafah crossing 1 day earlier than planned to allow the passage of students and medical patients. 95 Palestinians were reported to have been evacuated to Egypt for treatment of injuries before the border officially reopened. (HA, REU 5/16)

2 Israeli settlers were killed and 150 were injured when a structurally unsound seating area collapsed in a synagogue in Givat Ze’ev. (AJ, AP, CNN, HA, REU 5/16)

The High Follow-Up Committee for Arab Citizens of Israel announced a general strike on 5/18 to protest attacks on members of its community. (HA 5/16)

PA president Mahmoud Abbas spoke to Dutch prime minister Mark Rutte about the Israeli escalation of violence in the Palestinian territories. (WAFA 5/16)

Haaretz reported that Israeli senior officials did not consider a ceasefire option at its latest security cabinet meeting. (HA 5/16)

Israeli defense minister Benny Gantz met with U.S. deputy assistant secretary for Israel and Palestinian affairs Hady Amr. U.S. president Joe Biden said in an Eid holiday speech that his “administration is going to continue to engage Palestinians and Israelis and other regional partners to work toward sustained calm.” Later, secretary of state Antony Blinken said that “the violence must end immediately.” Earlier in the day, Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu had reiterated that his government has no plans for a ceasefire, saying the attacks on Gaza “will take time.” (AJ, HA 5/16; HA 5/17)

Jordanian king Abdullah II said that Jordan has been involved in intense diplomacy with its allies in Europe and the U.S. to put pressure on Israel to stop its attacks on Gaza. (HA, REU 5/16)

28 U.S. Democratic senators, led by Jon Ossoff (D-GA), called for an immediate ceasefire “[t]o prevent any further loss of civilian life and to prevent further escalation of conflict in Israel and the Palestinian territories.” (HA, NYT 5/17)

At a UN security council (UNSC) meeting on Israel-Palestine, UN secretary-general António Guterres said that the situation was “utterly appalling,” calling for an immediate ceasefire. He said the UN is actively involved in facilitating a ceasefire. This was the 3d time in a week that the UNSC met about the situation and the 3d time the U.S. stalled any joint statement. PA foreign minister Riyad al-Maliki said that “[e]ach time Israel hears a foreign leader speak of its right to defend itself it is further emboldened to continue murdering entire families in their sleep.” (AJ, AP, HA, WAFA, WAFA 5/16; TOI 5/17)

The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation called for an immediate halt of Israeli attacks on Gaza and “systematic crimes” against Palestinians. Saudi Arabia also condemned Israel’s “fragrant violations” of Palestinian rights. PA foreign minister al-Maliki criticized the countries that had normalized relations with Israel, saying, “running towards this colonial Israeli system without achieving peace and ending the Israeli occupation of Arab and Palestinian lands represents support for the apartheid regime and participation in its crimes.” (AJ, AJ, AP, HA, REU, WAFA, WAFA 5/16)

Pope Francis, for the 2d Sunday in a row, denounced the escalation of violence in Israel and Palestine, saying that the death of children was a “sign that they don’t want to build the future but want to destroy it.” (HA 5/16; WAFA 5/17)

In the West Bank, 1 Israeli settler shot and killed 1 Palestinian and injured 1 other when the 2 confronted a group of settlers attempting to set fire to their crops near al-Rihiya, south of Hebron; +972 reported that the settlers mutilated the body of the Palestinian man they had shot dead. 10 Palestinians were killed and 209 wounded by Israeli forces throughout the West Bank. The casualties included: 1, and 39 injured during a protest in Shwaika near Tulkarm; several others were reported injured; 1 protester, and 2 injured in Salem; 1 protester in Asira; 1 protester, and 4 injured in Beita; 1 protester, and 18 others injured by live ammunition in Ya‘bad; 1 protester in Marda; 1 protester in Iskaka; 1 protester, and 4 injured in ‘Urif; 1 protester in Jericho; 1 Palestinian at a checkpoint, who allegedly tried to ram Israeli soldiers near Silwad; 148 protesters injured by live ammunition and rubber-coated bullets during protests in and around Dayr Nidham, Bayt Dajan, Bayt Furik, al-Fawar refugee camp, al-Khadir, Salfit, Tayassir, Huwwara, Aqraba, Ni‘lin, Jenin, Qalqilya, Tulkarm, and Qusra. 13 Palestinians were arrested, including 6 during late-night raids in and around Qalandia refugee camp, Bayt Umar, and Sa‘ir; 7 were arrested during protests at the al-Jalama checkpoint near Jenin. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces shot and injured 19 Palestinians using live ammunition, rubber-coated bullets, and sound bomb canisters during protests in and around Shaykh Jarrah, Bayt Hanina, Silwan, and the Old City. 7 Palestinians were arrested during raids in al-Tur, Silwan, and Sur Bahir. In Gaza, 22 Palestinians were killed, including 6 children, and dozens injured, raising the comprehensive death toll since 5/10 from 114 to 136, including 33 children and 2 pregnant women. The casualties included: 9, including 3 children, and 73 injured, including 20 children, in air strikes on buildings in Bayt Lahiya and Bayt Hanun; 4 in an air strike on Gaza City, including 1 child; 3, including 1 child, in air strikes on Jabaliya; 1, and 16 injured, including 2 children, in air strikes on al-Bureij refugee camp; 1, and 1 wounded in an air strike on Abasan; 1 in an air strike while riding a motorbike in Rafah; 1 Palestinian was found dead in rubble from an air strike in Dayr al-Balah on 5/13; 1 Palestinian child succumbed to wounds sustained in an air strike on Gaza City on 5/12; 1 Palestinian succumbed to wounds sustained in an air strike on 5/12 in Bayt Lahiya. Israel also said it had assassinated 3 Hamas operatives, Shadi Abed Al-Hadi, Osama Shehadeh, and Zakaria Zarendah. Israeli air strikes also destroyed an interior ministry building west of Gaza City and 3 poultry farms near Rafah, killing more than 10,000 chickens. Israeli forces also struck the fishing ports in Gaza city and Khan Yunis. Damage to power lines in Gaza was reported, significantly reducing the amount of available electricity. In Israel, Israeli forces killed 2 people after several people crossed from Lebanon into Israel by Metula. Israel also said that 3 rockets were fired at Israel from Syria, with 2 landing in open land in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights and 1 in Syria. 2 rockets from Gaza hit 2 houses in Sderot, causing damage and 1 injury. 1 rocket from Gaza lightly injured 1 Israeli driving near Beersheba. Israel barred people from outside of Lydda from entering the city from 4 p.m. and barred all its residents from leaving their homes after 9 p.m. 1 Palestinian-Israeli minor was seriously injured, and another minor lightly injured, after a firebomb was thrown at their house in Jaffa; Israeli police claimed without evidence that it was 2 Palestinian-Israeli men that had thrown the firebomb. Israeli forces were filmed kicking Palestinian-Israeli vehicles traveling in Umm al-Fahm and firing stun grenades at them for no apparent reason. Israeli forces shot and injured 1 Palestinian-Israeli minor in Lydda, claiming he tried to throw a firebomb at them. 5 Palestinian-Israelis were arrested in Umm al-Fahm after a fire was ignited at the town’s city hall. 9 Palestinian-Israelis were arrested in ‘Akka. Israeli forces violently dispersed Palestinian-Israeli protesters in Kafr Kana, injuring 28. Israel also told international news outlets that it would conduct a ground invasion of Gaza shortly and then later apologized to the news outlets for providing false information; analysts suspected that Israel used the media outlets to lure Hamas militants into tunnels before heavily bombarding said tunnels; Israel said that dozens were killed in the attack on the tunnels. Israel also shot down 1 drone sent from Gaza. 1 Israeli woman succumbed to injuries sustained after falling while running to a shelter in Neta’im on 5/11, raising the Israeli death toll to 9. In Jordan, some 500 protesters tried to enter the West Bank through the Allenby bridge, but were dispersed by Jordanian forces 3 miles from the border. In Amman, thousands of protesters called for the expulsion of the Israeli ambassador and ending the Jordanian-Israeli peace treaty. (AJ, AJ, AJ, HA, HA, HA, HA, HA, HA, HA, HA, NYT, NYT, PCHR, PCHR, REU, REU, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 5/14; AJ, AP, AP, GDN, HA, HA, HA, PCHR, PCHR 5/15; TOI 5/16; HA 5/19; PCHR 5/20; MEE 5/21; NYT 5/26; +972 6/8; INT 7/15)

The Palestinian Health Ministry in Gaza said that 42% of the 119 people who have been killed in the Israeli attack on Gaza, at the time of reporting, were women and children. It also said 830 people had been injured. The UN estimated that 10,000 Palestinians have been internally displaced during the current escalation so far. (AJ, HA 5/14)

Spokesperson for PA president Mahmoud Abbas Nabil Abu Rudeineh said that the silence of the U.S. administration was encouraging Israeli war crimes in Gaza, East Jerusalem, and the West Bank. (WAFA 5/14)

Morocco sent 40 tons of emergency aid to Palestine and denounced Israel’s aggression toward Palestinians. (HA 5/15)

The U.S. deputy assistant secretary for Israel and Palestinian affairs Hady Amr landed in Tel Aviv in an attempt by the U.S. administration to deescalate the situation. (AX, HA 5/14; HA 5/15)

A letter co-signed by 11 Jewish Democrats in the house of representatives, led by Jerrold Nadler (D-NY), urged the Biden administration to be more active in ending the escalation of violence between Israel and Hamas and to do more to end the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The 11 members of Congress also expressed concern about the violence in East Jerusalem and urged Israel to halt the “unjust eviction” of Palestinians from their homes in Shaykh Jarrah, and said that the U.S. must address the deepening occupation. (HA 5/15)

Democrats in the House also debated the attack on Gaza on the floor, with 1 group of 11 speaking in defense of Palestinians and 1 group of 10 defending Israel’s actions. (AJ, HA 5/14)

ICC chief prosecutor Fatou Bensouda said that she will continue with her inquiry into potential war crimes committed by Israelis and Palestinians in the occupied Palestinian territories despite Israel’s refusal to cooperate. Chief Prosecutor Bensouda also said that the investigation will include the current escalation of the conflict. (HA, REU 5/14)

The Italian trade union of port workers said that its members in Livorno had refused to load a shipment of weapons and explosives to be shipped to Israel, citing Israel’s attack on Gaza. (AA 5/15; WAFA 5/16; IN 5/17)

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

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

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

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

Hundreds of Palestinians gather along Gaza’s border fence near Jabaliya refugee camp to continue the Great March of Return and to cheer on a number of Palestinian fishing boats sailing in a symbolic challenge of the Israeli blockade. IDF troops and Israeli naval forces violently disperse the demonstrations, as well as similar protests along the border fence near Khan Yunis and Gaza City; at least 25 Palestinians are injured. In the West Bank, IDF troops violently disperse Palestinians gathering outside Ofer Prison to demonstrate in support of the Palestinians imprisoned inside; there are no serious injuries reported. IDF troops also arrest 2 Palestinians during raids in Jenin and Tulkarm; and patrol near Hebron, Nablus, Jenin, and Qalqilya. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 10 Palestinians during raids in Jabal Mukabir, al-Tur, and Shu‘fat refugee camp. (MNA, WAFA, WAFA 12/24; PCHR 12/27)

The heads of the parties in Israel’s ruling coalition announce their decision to dissolve the current Knesset and hold early elections on 4/9/19. Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu says that the decision was unanimous and that he intends to bring new parties into the current coalition after the elections. Netanyahu reportedly made his decision to push for early elections on 12/22 after consulting with his lawyers and top aides about a variety of issues, including several stalled legislative initiatives and the percolating corruption case against him. Netanyahu also says that the IDF has asserted control over the northern border and that this is the “perfect” time for early elections. Later, the ruling coalition agrees with the opposition to suspend work on all legislation that they don’t agree on until the Knesset is dissolved. Meanwhile, a senior White House official says that Israel’s early elections are “one of many factors we are considering in evaluating the timing of the release of [the Trump administration’s long awaited Palestinian-Israeli] peace plan.” (HA, HA, MNA 12/24; HA, HA 12/25)

After a day of violence and intense IDF activity across the Ramallah region on 12/13, tensions remain high in the West Bank. The Israeli authorities maintain the closure of all major roads in the area while they search for the perpetrator of the attack that left 2 Israeli soldiers dead. One Palestinian is killed during clashes sparked by an IDF raid in Jalazun refugee camp. Six Palestinians are injured during clashes sparked by a similar raid in nearby al-Bireh. Two more Palestinians are injured when IDF troops violently disperse a protest outside nearby al-Mughayyir. Separately, a Palestinian stabs and lightly injures an Israeli soldier at an IDF post outside the Beit El settlement; the soldier moderately injures the Palestinian in the ensuing confrontation (the Palestinian will turn himself in to the IDF on 12/15). Unidentified assailants throw rocks at Israeli troops outside al-Bireh, moderately injuring 1 soldier. The IDF then seals off the main Ramallah-Nablus road and conducts raids in the area searching for the assailants. IDF troops shoot and injure 5 Palestinians during clashes sparked by a raid in al-Laban near Nablus; violently disperse Friday protests against the Israeli occupation in central Hebron, Luban al-Sharqiyya near Nablus, and Bil‘in near Ramallah (4 Palestinians are injured); arrest 1 Palestinians and issue 1 arrest summons during additional raids near Hebron; and patrol near Hebron, Bethlehem, Jenin, Nablus, Tulkarm, and Salfit. Israeli settlers throw stones at Palestinian vehicles near Nablus and Qalqilya, and open fire on a Palestinian passersby in Jalazun refugee camp (1 Palestinian is injured and several vehicles are damaged). In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 3 Palestinians during raids in Issawiyya. Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops violently disperse thousands of Palestinians gathering to continue the Great March of Return near Gaza City, Jabaliya refugee camp, Khan Yunis, and Rafah; at least 60 Palestinians are injured. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Jabaliya refugee camp, causing no damage or injuries. (EI, HA, JP, JP, MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, YA 12/14; TOI 12/15; PCHR 12/20)

Palestinian citizens of Israel and Palestinians across Gaza, East Jerusalem, and the West Bank observe a general strike in protest of the so-called Nation-State Law, which codified Israel’s status as the nation-state of the Jewish people when it passed in the Knesset on 7/19/18. Israeli forces violently disperse demonstrations against the law on the outskirts of Ramallah, and in Nablus, Qalandia refugee camp, and Qalqilya, as well as 2 neighborhoods in East Jerusalem, (al-‘Izzariya and Abu Dis); 14 Palestinians are injured. Elsewhere in the West Bank, IDF troops patrol in Hebron, sparking clashes with stone-throwing Palestinian minors; there are no reported injuries. They also arrest 3 Palestinians during late-night raids near Hebron and Bethlehem. Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops violently disperse Palestinians gathering near al-Bureij refugee camp, Khan Yunis, and Jabaliya refugee camp throughout the day to protest the Israeli blockade, protest the Nation-State Law, and continue the Great March of Return; at least 44 Palestinians are injured. In the evening, several Palestinian fishing boats sail in a symbolic challenge to Israel’s blockade. They turn back to shore after Israeli naval forces fire warning shots in their direction, causing no damage or injuries. Meanwhile, Israeli firefighters put out 4 fires in southern Israeli border communities reportedly sparked by incendiary kites or balloons flown from Gaza. In East Jerusalem, Israeli settlers assault a number of Palestinians and damage a number of their vehicles in the Old City. Later, Israeli forces violently disperse of Palestinian minors congregating near the Damascus Gate to the Old City; 1 Palestinian is injured and 2 are arrested. They also arrest 2 Palestinians during late-night raids in Abu Dis and Hizma, sparking minor clashes in the latter. (HA, MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, TOI, TOI, WAFA, WAFA 10/1; MNA, MNA, MNA, YA 10/2; PCHR 10/4)

Approximately 1,500 right-wing Jewish activists visit Joseph’s Tomb near Nablus overnight, sparking clashes between their IDF escort and Palestinian residents of the area; 20 Palestinians are injured, including 2 journalists. Elsewhere in the West Bank, IDF troops raid a Palestinian boys school near Nablus, sparking minor clashes; there are no reported injuries. They also arrest 3 Palestinians during raids in Qalqilya; and patrol near Hebron and Tulkarm. Separately, PA security forces arrest dozens of Hamas affiliates during raids across the West Bank. The raids come one day after Hamas security forces summoned dozens of Fatah members for interrogation in Gaza. In East Jerusalem, approximately 1135 right-wing Jewish activists tour Haram al-Sharif to commemorate Sukkot, sparking minor confrontations between their Israeli security escort and Palestinian worshippers; there are no reported injuries or arrests. Israeli forces arrest 8 Palestinians during raids in Qalandia refugee camp, Biddu, and the Old City. Along Gaza’s border, Israeli forces conduct limited incursions to level land near Khan Yunis and Bayt Lahiya. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Jabaliya refugee camp, causing no damage or injuries. (MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, TOI, TOI, WAFA, WAFA 9/27; PCHR 10/4)

PA president Mahmoud Abbas addresses the UN General Assembly in New York City, calling on the Trump administration to reverse its recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, reinstate aid to UNRWA, and oppose Israel’s settlement enterprise. “It is ironic that the [Trump] administration still talks about what they call the ‘Deal of the Century,’” he says. “But what is left for this administration to give to the Palestinian people?" He also calls on Hamas to implement their 12/7/17 reconciliation agreement and give up control of Gaza to the PA. In response, Hamas releases a statement calling Abbas’s speech a “declaration of failure” on the stalled Palestinian reconciliation process. (HA, TOI, YA 9/27; DPA, HA, HA, JP, MNA, MNA, TOI, YA, YA 9/28)

Jordan’s Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi says that Germany, Sweden, the EU, Japan, and Turkey, as well as a number of other countries, collectively pledged $118 million to UNRWA at a meeting on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York City this week. Meanwhile, the Ad Hoc Liaison Committee, the main policy-level fundraising body for the Palestinians, meets in New York to discuss an proposed humanitarian aid package for Gaza. (HA, JP, MNA 9/28; TOI 9/29)

After meeting with Rwandan president Paul Kagame, Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu announces that Israel and Rwanda will soon open embassies in each other’s countries. Netanyahu also says Kagame wants to start a direct flight between Kigali and Tel Aviv. (TOI 9/29)

Israeli aircraft conduct an air strike on Palestinians allegedly attempting to breach Gaza’s border fence near Rafah late at night, killing 2. The IDF reports that the Palestinians were placing a “suspicious object” near the fence. Earlier, IDF troops stationed along the border fence near Khan Yunis open fire on Palestinian farmers, causing no damage or injuries. Israeli forces also conduct a limited incursion to level land near Rafah. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on 15 Palestinian boats sailing from Gaza in a symbolic challenge to the Israeli blockade. Meanwhile, IDF troops violently disperse thousands of Palestinians gathering along the coast near Jabaliya refugee camp and Khan Yunis to cheer on the boats and continue the Great March or Return for a 4th day in a row; at least 30 Palestinians are injured. In the West Bank, hundreds of right-wing Jewish activists visit Joseph’s Tomb near Nablus overnight, sparking clashes between their IDF escort and Palestinian residents of the area; 8 Palestinians are injured. Elsewhere, IDF troops conduct raids in ‘Azun village near Qalqilya, sparking clashes with Palestinian students on their way to school; there are no reported injuries. One Palestinian is injured and another is arrested in similar clashes sparked by an IDF raid near Nablus. IDF troops also arrest 7 Palestinians during late-night raids near Qalqilya, Jenin, and Hebron; and patrol near Hebron and Qalqilya. Israeli forces deliver stop-work orders to a Palestinian building under construction in Kardala village near Tubas. In East Jerusalem, dozens of right-wing Jewish activists tour Haram al-Sharif. Israeli forces arrest 2 Palestinians and confiscate some property during late-night raids in Qalandia refugee camp (HA, MNA, MNA, MNA, MNA, WAFA 9/17; MNA, MNA, TOI, WAFA, YA 9/18; PCHR 9/20)

UN Humanitarian Coordinator Jamie McGoldrick announces a $1 million transfer to prevent the “collapse of services and a potential outbreak of disease” in Gaza. “Unfortunately, it comes in the absence of action from the relevant authorities, who have responsibility for the well-being of Gaza's citizens, or predictable donor support.” McGoldrick says that $2 million more is still needed to pay for essential health, water, and sanitation services through the end of 2018. (WAFA 9/17)

In the evening, the IAF conduct air strikes on a Hamas site and a vehicle near al-Bureij refugee camp, completely destroying the vehicle and injuring 2 Palestinians allegedly preparing to fly an incendiary kite into southern Israel. Meanwhile, Israeli firefighters put out approximately 21 fires in the border area allegedly caused by such attacks. Separately, IDF troops violently disperse Palestinians gathering near Khan Yunis and Jabaliya refugee camp to continue the Great March of Return; 2 Palestinians are injured. In the West Bank, Israeli forces begin dismantling and evacuating 10 buildings in the illegal settlement outpost West Tapuah near Nablus. The settler-residents throw bleach, sticks, and eggs at the Israeli forces, sparking minor clashes; 11 Israeli police are lightly injured. Meanwhile, IDF troops arrest 5 Palestinians during late-night raids near Hebron and Bethlehem, and patrol near Hebron. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 4 Palestinians during late-night raids in Shu‘fat refugee camp and the Old City. (HA, JP, TOI, WAFA, YA 6/17; PCHR 6/21)

The Israeli cabinet convenes to discuss the recent spate of incendiary kite and balloon attacks emanating from Gaza. PM Netanyahu and DM Lieberman support the IDF’s position that direct attacks on the perpetrators are likely less effective than retaliatory strikes on Hamas infrastructure. Israeli public security minister Gilad Erdan and education minister Naftali Bennett reportedly push for the IDF to target the perpetrators directly. (HA 6/17; YA 6/18)

Israeli and Arab sources say that the U.S. delegation scheduled to visit the Middle East this week plans to call on wealthy Gulf states to invest up to $1 billion in an effort to strengthen Gaza’s economy. They reportedly plan to ask for Egypt and Israel to help administer the funds. “This is an issue that is urgent, and at the same time, can be dealt with relatively quickly,” one source says. (HA 6/17; TOI 6/18)

Along Gaza’s border, a Hamas fighter dies in a tunnel collapse near Dayr al-Balah, according to local Gaza media. Meanwhile, IDF troops violently disperse groups of Palestinians approaching the border fence near Khan Yunis and Bayt Lahiya; 3 Palestinians are injured. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Jabaliya refugee camp, causing no damage or injuries. In the West Bank, IDF troops shoot and injure a Palestinian during minor clashes in Hebron, and patrol near Hebron throughout the day. They also arrest 14 Palestinians during late-night raids in and around Tulkarm, Hebron, Jenin, Salfit, and Qalqilya. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces demolish part of a Palestinian shop in Bayt ‘Aynun and confiscate some of its merchandise, and arrest 12 Palestinians during late-night raids in Issawiyya and Shu‘fat refugee camp They also establish a closed military zone near Al-Quds University, sparking minor clashes with stone-throwing students; 4 Palestinians are injured. (TOI, WAFA 4/22; PCHR 4/26)

A Palestinian youth succumbs to injuries sustained when the IDF violently dispersed peaceful protesters along Gaza’s border on 4/20, bringing the death toll stemming from the Great March of Return to 35. (HA, MNA, WAFA 4/23; EI 4/24)

Along Gaza’s border, a number of Palestinians tie firebombs to kites and fly them into Israeli territory, causing several small fires. IDF troops then violently disperse Palestinians protesting near the border fence outside Gaza City, Khan Yunis, and Jabaliya refugee camp; 3 Palestinians are injured. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Bayt Lahiya and Jabaliya refugee camp, causing no damage or injuries. In the West Bank, IDF troops seal off the main entrance to Bayt Umar near Hebron while they conduct raids in the village. The raids spark minor clashes; there are no reported injuries or arrests. Israeli forces issue stop-work orders to a Palestinian home under construction in Yatta village near Hebron and bar Palestinian laborers from working on water infrastructure outside Bethlehem. IDF troops confiscate some surveillance footage and arrest 25 Palestinians during late-night raids near Ramallah, Qalqilya, Bethlehem, Nablus, Jenin, and Hebron; and patrol near Hebron, Qalqilya, Salfit, and Tulkarm. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 7 Palestinians during late-night raids in Shu‘fat refugee camp, Abu Dis, and al-Tur. (WAFA 4/15; HA 4/16; PCHR 4/19)

The IDF announces it destroyed a tunnel leading into Israel from the Jabaliya refugee camp area on 4/14, bringing the number of Gazan tunnels demolished since the beginning of 2017 to 8. DM Lieberman says that this was the “longest and deepest [tunnel] exposed so far” and calls on the Palestinians in Gaza to stop Hamas from “burning your money on tunnels going nowhere.” (HA, JP, TOI, YA 4/15)

In the West Bank, IDF troops shoot and injure 4 Palestinians amid clashes outside Birzeit University near Ramallah and in Jericho, and arrest a Palestinian woman, allegedly for carrying a knife, at a checkpoint in central Hebron. They also arrest 14 Palestinians during further raids in and around Salfit, Jericho, Ramallah, Tulkarm, Jenin, Nablus, and Bethlehem; and patrol near Salfit, Jericho, and Nablus. Israeli forces seal the entrance to ’Usarin village near Nablus. Israeli settlers cut down approximately 15 Palestinian-owned olive trees near Nablus. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 2 Palestinians during latenight raids in Anata refugee camp and Qatanna. Along Gaza’s border, Israeli forces conduct a limited incursion to level lands near Khan Yunis and open fire on Palestinian farmlands near Gaza City. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Jabaliya refugee camp and Bayt Lahiya, seriously injuring 1 fisherman (2 fishermen are arrested). (TOI, WAFA 1/8; PCHR 1/11)

The Israel Electric Corp. increases the amount of electricity being supplied to Gaza to 120 megawatts, following the PA’s 1/3 request to end the 40% reduction requested by the Palestinian authorities last year in an effort to increase pressure on Hamas. (EI, HA, YA 1/8)

IDF troops violently disperse a Palestinian protest against U.S. pres. Trump’s 12/6 recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital in Hebron; 3 Palestinians are injured. Meanwhile, the IDF conducts raids in al-‘Arub refugee camp and nearby Sa‘ir village, sparking further clashes with stone-throwing Palestinians; 4 are injured. IDF troops arrest 1 Palestinian during late-night raids near Hebron, Qalqilya, and Salfit; and patrol near Tulkarm, Qalqilya, and Hebron. Along Gaza’s border, Israeli forces conduct a limited incursion to level land near Jabaliya refugee camp and Khan Yunis. For a 2d day in a row, the IAF fires flare bombs on Palestinian property outside Khan Yunis, causing no serious damage. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Bayt Lahiya, causing no damage or injuries. (MNA, WAFA 12/26)

For a 5th day in a row, Palestinians across the oPt gather to protest U.S. pres. Trump’s 12/6 recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital. Israeli troops violently disperse them in Tulkarm, Ramallah, Hebron, Jericho, and along Gaza’s border near Bayt Hanun, Jabaliya refugee camp, Gaza City, Rafah, Khan Yunis, and al-Bureij refugee camp; at least 45 Palestinians are injured and 3 are arrested. Meanwhile, the IDF uses cement blocks to seal the main road connecting Ramallah and Jalazun refugee camp; arrests 16 Palestinians during raids in and around Nablus, Hebron, Qalqilya, Bethlehem, Tulkarm; and patrols near Tulkarm and Tubas. Along Gaza’s border, IDF troops open fire on Palestinian land and other property near Khan Yunis, causing no damage. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 3 Palestinian youths on the way home from school in Ras al-Amud and 4 during raids in Shu‘fat refugee camp and Silwan. (MNA, TOI, WAFA 12/11; HA 12/12; PCHR 12/14)

Unidentified parties launch a rocket from Gaza into southern Israel. It lands in an open area, causing no damage or injuries. The IAF conducts air strikes on 2 Hamas positions in southern Gaza. Later, unidentified parties fire another rocket from Gaza, into Israel near Ashqelon. It is intercepted by Israel’s Iron Dome missile defense system. Late at night the IDF shells Hamas sites in northern Gaza, causing minor damage. (HA, YA 12/11; HA, TOI 12/12; PCHR 12/14)

Thousands of Palestinians gather across the oPt to protest U.S. pres. Trump’s 12/6 recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital. The IDF deploys additional battalions in the West Bank to quell the protests, and Israeli forces violently disperse them in Tulkarm, Bethlehem, Nablus, Jenin, Shu‘fat refugee camp, at a checkpoint near Ramallah, in the Old City of Jerusalem, and along Gaza’s border near Khan Yunis and al-Bureij refugee camp; at least 30 Palestinians are injured, including 9 with live ammunition, and 16 are arrested. Palestinians also observe a general strike throughout most of the oPt. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Jabaliya refugee camp, causing no damage or injuries. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 14 Palestinians during raids in Issawiyya, Ras al-Amud, and Wadi al-Juz. (HA, MNA, NYT, REU, TOI, WAFA 12/7; PCHR 12/14)

Unidentified parties fire 3 rockets from Gaza toward Israel; 2 fall short of the border, and 1 lands in an open area in southern Israel, causing no damage or injuries. The IDF targets 2 Hamas positions in Gaza with artillery shelling and air strikes. (HA, MNA, WAFA 12/7)

In response to U.S. pres. Trump’s 12/6 recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, the Palestinian delegation at the UN files a formal complaint, requesting that the UN Security Council (UNSC) work toward reversing Trump’s decision. Senior PA official Jibril Rajoub says that U.S. VP Mike Pence, who is set to visit Israel and the oPt later this month, is “unwelcome in Palestine.” He says the Palestinians “will not welcome Trump’s deputy in the [oPt].” The response from the international community is near-universal condemnation, with few exceptions. Israeli PM Netanyahu says that some countries have reached out to discuss similar recognitions of Jerusalem. “I have no doubt than when the U.S. embassy will move there, and even before that, many embassies will relocate to Jerusalem,” he adds. Czech Republic pres. Miloš Zeman says Trump’s announcement made him “truly happy.”(HA, REU, TOI, WAFA 12/7; HA 12/8)

In the West Bank, IDF troops evacuate a small Israeli settlement outpost near Nablus, sparking minor clashes with the residents; 1 settler is arrested after turning his dog loose on the soldiers. Israeli settlers then torch a number of Palestinian olive trees in the area. Elsewhere, Israeli forces confiscate 3 Palestinian cars and 2 tractors from residents of Ras al-Ahmar near Tubas. IDF troops conduct raids in Dahaysha refugee camp near Bethlehem late at night, ordering a bookstore to close for 3 weeks and sparking clashes with stone-throwing youths; 1 Palestinian is injured. They arrest 13 Palestinians and issue 2 arrest summons during further raids in and around Qalqilya, Hebron, Jericho, Jenin, and Bethlehem, and patrol near Hebron during the day. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces level Palestinian land outside Hizma in preparation for the construction of a new road in the area. Along Gaza’s border, Israeli forces conduct a limited incursion to level land near Khan Yunis. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Jabaliya refugee camp and Bayt Lahiya, causing no damage or injuries. (MNA, TOI, WAFA 9/24; MNA, WAFA 9/25; PCHR 9/28)

In response to the 2 suicide attacks on 3/9, the IDF destroys Arafat's Gaza City headquarters, firing 30 missiles at the compound fr. the air, sea. IDF sends 50 tanks, APCs into Qalqilya; continues operations in Dahaysha (demolishing at least 4 Palestinian houses); directs shells, heavy machine gun fire at residential areas of Beitunia, Hebron, Jabaliya, Jalazone, Khan Yunis, Tal al-Sultan; blows up the house of senior AMB mbr. Yahya Dahamsa in Artas, demolishes 2 other homes in Dayr al-Balah; bulldozes agricultural land in Bayt Hanun; masses troops around refugee camps nr. Ramallah. In Ashdod, a Palestinian opens fire, wounding 1 Israeli before being captured. Another Palestinian gunman fatally shoots an IDF soldier outside Netzarim settlement, is shot dead by a settlement guard. At least 6 Palestinians are killed during the day: The brother of a senior Fatah leader is killed when IDF helicopters fire a missile at his car in what is thought to be a botched assassination attempt. The IDF fires on a car nr. Sur al-Bahir, killing 2 Palestinians allegedly en route to stage a bombing in Jerusalem; fatally shoots an 11-yr.-old Palestinian boy at an IDF checkpoint nr. Ramallah, 2 Palestinians nr. Nablus. Late this evening, the IDF shells Bethlehem, Dahaysha. (HP, LAW, NYT, PMC, REU, WP 3/10; AFP 3/10 in WNC 3/11; NYT, WP, WT 3/11; LAW 3/13)

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: A general strike is observed on W. Bank and the Gaza Strip marking the beginning of 9th month of the intifadah [NYT 8/10, FJ 8/14].

Arab World: Assistant Sec. of State Richard Murphy meets with officials in Jordan and Egypt, declines to meet with Palestinians; two Palestinians he was to have met are close to PLO chairman Yasir Arafat. [WP 8/10]. In an interview in al-Sharq al-Awsat PLO chairman Yasir Arafat refuses to state whether he supports Palestinian government-in-exile [NYT 8/10]. In Damascus George Habash, leader of Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine, endorses formation of Palestinian government-in-exile [NYT 8/10].

Military

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Troops shoot, kill 14-year-old in Qalqiliyyah [NYT 8/10, FJ8/14]. In Qalqiliyyah 8 others are shot, 9 seriously affected by tear gas [FJ 8/14]. In Jenin 4 Palestinians are shot; in Bayt Rima 5 Palestinians are shot, in Gaza 5 Palestinians are shot [NYT 8/10]; in Jenin 2 Palestinians are shot [FJ 8/14]. In Tel Aviv 2 Palestinians are killed, 1 injured after the shack they were sleeping in was set afire [FJ 8/14]. At Beach camp 13 Palestinians are treated for exposure to tear gas [FJ 8/14]. Demonstrations occur in Tulkarm, Khan Yunis, Jabalya, Nusayrat, and Beach camps and Gaza City, Hebron, Dayr Ghassanah.

Arab World: Israeli Air Force bombers attack positions in S. Lebanon knocking out radio station used to broadcast PLO messages to the territories; 3 people are killed, 5 wounded. It was the 12th Israeli air raid into Lebanon this year; police estimate that over 60 people have been killed, 120 wounded [NYT 8/10]

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Eight villages in the Hebron area are placed under curfew following the stabbing death of an Israeli [FJ 6/26]. The Burayj refugee camp is suffering from a water shortage; UNRWA distributes water in buckets to residents [FJ 6/26].

Arab World: The Washington Times reports PLO has told U.S. State Dept. officials that an article by Bassam Abu Sharif constitutes PLO policy [WT 6/21].

Military

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli settlers block roads in the Hebron area following the murder of an Israeli [FJ 6/26]. A firebomb in Gaza City injures 2 soldiers [FJ 6/26]. Clashes are reported in Beach, Jabalya, and Khan Yunis refugee camps [FJ 6/26].

Other Countries: American and Israeli officials announce that Syria and China are discussing the sale of short-range missiles to Damascus [NYT 6/22].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Arab merchants in E. Jerusalem continue commercial strike. About 600 police and border police stand guard outside al-Haram al-Sharif; 4 Palestinians are arrested on charges of inciting demonstration. Jerusalem Police Chief Yosef Yehudai asks for, receives emergency security powers; Jerusalem neighborhood of al-Tur is placed under curfew [WP 1/23]. Military closes al-Quds for 45 days [FBIS 1/22]. Israel reports capture of 8-member armed PFLP cell in W. Bank, alleges group was responsible for October 1987 murder of Yigdal Shahaf [FBIS 1/26]. Arsonists set fire to customs department in Hebron [FJ 1/24].

Other Countries: UN Sec. Gen. Javier Perez de Cuellar releases report on Palestinian uprising in occupied territories, condemning Israeli use of harsh methods against demonstrators and endorsing plan for international peace conference on Middle East [WP 1/23].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Military lifts curfews on Rafah, Khan Yunis, Beach, and Dayr al-Balah refugee camps. Curfews remain in effect in Gaza Strip's Jabalya, Nusayrat, Maghazi, and Burayj camps. Curfews continue in W. Bank's old and new 'Askar camps and villages of Sa'ir and al-Mazra'ah al-Sharqiyyah. Curfews are imposed on Tulkarm refugee camp and Ramallah-area village of Bayt 'Ur al-Tahta after marches and stone throwing [FBIS 1/22; FJ 1/24].

Arab World: Amal releases 3 Palestinians [FBIS 1/22]. Salah Salah, Palestinian command secretary in S. Lebanon, announces his forces will withdraw from Sidon and Iqlim al-Tuffah roads [FBIS 1/25].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Defense Minister Yitzhaq Rabin announces new policy of using "might, power, and beating" instead of live ammunition to quell disturbances. At least 38 Palestinians have been killed since uprising began 12/9 [WP 1/21]. Rabin bans food shipments by relief agencies to Palestinian refugee camps until general strike ends. General strike continues. Soldiers order W. Bank and E. Jerusalem businessmen toopen shops [NYT 1/20]. Food trucks are allowed to enter Khan Yunis, Jabalya,nd Nusayrat refugee camps; trucks are denied entrance to Dayr al-Balah and Burayj camps [WP 1/20]. Military, police, and Jerusalem city officials arrange to invoke emergency powers for Jerusalem police [NYT 1/21]. Dozens are arresteduring police sweep of E. Jerusalem's Shu'fat and Thuri neighborhoods [FJ 1/24].

Arab World: PFLP Sec. Gen. George Habash travels to Lebanon, meets with 4 Palestinians deported by Israel [FBIS 1/20]. Radio al-Quds broadcasts call for general strike [FBIS 1/20].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israelis drop tear gas from helicopters then open fire with rubber bullets, live ammunition in clash with stone-throwing demonstrators in Ramallah-area village of al-Mazra'ah al-Sharqiyyah; 2 Palestinians are shot, wounded [WP 1/23]. Military lifts curfew on Balatah refugee camp [FJ 1/24].

Social/Economic/Political

Occupied Palestine/Israel: In W. Bank town of Baytin, 2 prominent Jewish settlers open fire on demonstrators whose barricade blocks road, killing 1 and wounding another [CSM, WP 1/12]. F. M. Shimon Peres meets with UN Undersec. Gen. Marrack Goulding [WP 1/12]. Rafah resident shot 1/8 and Khan Yunis resident also wounded in earlier clash die in Israeli hospital [FJ 1/17]. General strike is observed in E. Jerusalem, W. Bank, and Gaza Strip [FJ 1/17]. Reports indicate 4 Palestinians ordered deported have withdrawn their appeals because their lawyers have been denied access to files [FJ 1/17]. Heads of private schools decide to remain closed until 1/18 [FJ 1/17].

Other Countries: Abraham Sofaer, legal adviser to U.S. State Dept., says closing PLO's UN observer mission would violate international law [NYT 1/13].

Military Action

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli troops clash with 20 Palestinian women protest ng in front of Qalandiya refugee camp UN office [CSM 1/12]. Khan Yunis demonstrator who allegedly tried to grab soldier's gun is shot dead [WP 1/12]. Balatah refugee camp and Nablus-area village of Bayt Hilma are placed under curfew. Soldiers use tear gas and rubber bullets against crowds waving Palestinian flag at Qalandiya refugee camp. Clashes are also reported in Duhayshah and Tulkarm camps, Bethlehem and 'Azzariyyah (Bethany) [WP 1/12; FJ 1/17]. Palestinian sources report a Khan Yunis resident is beaten to death. Demonstrations are reported in Gaza City, Bayt Hanun, and Jabalya camp. Curfews are imposed on 5 Gaza Strip refugee camps: Khan Yunis, Dayr al-Balah, Maghazi, Nusayrat, and Burayj. Strip is declared closed military zone [FJ 1/17]. Military imposes curfew on 'Askar camp [FJ 1/17].