The Palestine Chronology

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers shoot and injure a Palestinian man during a raid in Mukhmas. Israeli forces shoot and kill a 13-year-old Palestinian boy and injure 2 others during a raid in Qabatiya. Israeli forces also shoot and injure 2 Palestinians during a raid in Tubas. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 23 Palestinians in the Old City near the Haram al-Sharif compound. In Gaza, Israeli forces bomb Khan Yunis, Nuseirat refugee camp, Maghazi, and Dayr al-Balah, killing at least 82 people. Israeli forces also open fire at Palestinians waiting to receive aid at the Kuwait Roundabout in Gaza City, killing at least 17. Meanwhile, Israeli forces continue to raid and besiege al-Shifa Hospital. In Sakhnin, Deir Hanna, and Kafr Kanna, thousands of Palestinian citizens of Israel mark Land Day under the slogan “Stop the war on Gaza.” In Tel Aviv, Israeli police violently disperse Israeli anti-government protesters. In Lebanon, a UNIFIL peacekeeping foot patrol is bombed, wounding 4 UN personnel from Chile, Norway, Australia, and Lebanon; Israel denies responsibility. Israeli forces bomb Naqoura, Taybeh, Hanin, Tayr Harfa, Yarin, and Dhayra. Hezbollah forces attack an Israeli military base in Ya’ara with a drone and fire missiles at Kafrchouba, Khirbet Maar, and Raheb. In Jordan, police violently disperse protesters outside of the Israeli embassy for the seventh day in a row. In Yemen, U.S. forces bomb 2 aerial surveillance systems. (AJ, AJ, AP, HA, HA, HA, HA, REU, REU, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 3/30; AJ, NYT 3/31; HA 4/1; UNOCHA 4/3)

More than 32,705 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces in Gaza, including at least 13,400 children and 8,900 women, and around 75,190 have been injured since 10/7/2023. At least 7,000 people are missing in rubble, including 1,700 children. 445 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces and settlers in the West Bank and East Jerusalem since 10/7/2023, including 112 children. More than 4,700 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, 253 Israeli soldiers have been killed and 1,520 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. 78 trucks carrying aid enter Gaza. (WAFA 3/30; UNOCHA 4/3)

The Gaza Media Office reports that Israeli forces have killed more than 400 people and destroyed and damaged more than 1,050 homes in and around al-Shifa Hospital during the 13-day siege of the hospital. (AJ 3/30)

The Alliance of Palestinian Forces, which includes Hamas and Islamic Jihad, releases a statement opposing a reported Israeli plan to establish an Arab military force in Gaza. (AJ 3/30; HA 4/1)

Islamic Jihad secretary-general Ziad al-Nakhalah meets with Iranian foreign minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian in Tehran, telling reporters that he promises that “we will be the victors in the war.” (AP 3/30)

Jordanian foreign minister Ayman Safadi, Egyptian foreign minister Sameh Shoukry, and French foreign minister Stephane Sejourne call for an “immediate and permanent ceasefire” after a meeting in Cairo. Sejourne also says his government will put forward a draft resolution at the UN Security Council setting out a political settlement of the war in Gaza. (WAFA 3/30; AJ 3/31)

The Arab Parliament of the Arab League issues a statement marking Land Day, saying Israel is waging “a war of genocide and forced displacement.” (AJ 3/30)

Cuban president Miguel Diaz-Canel demands in a tweet on X that Israel ends “the genocide” in Gaza. (AJ, WAFA 3/31)

A video circulating online shows U.S. representative Tim Walberg (R-MI) saying that no aid should be provided to Palestinians and that Gaza “should be like Nagasaki and Hiroshima” referring to the U.S. nuclear bombings of the 2 Japanese cities during World War II. (AJ, NYT 3/31)

The Guardian reports that the UK government has received legal advice that Israel is breaking international law in Gaza. (AJ, GDN 3/30; AJ, HA, HA 3/31)

50 members of the UK House of Lords and parliament call on the government to reinstate UNRWA funding. (AJ, HA 3/30)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers raid Burin and Madama, throwing stones at homes and vehicles. Israeli forces demolish 2 homes in al-Matar near Jericho. Israeli forces also raze 15 dunams (3.7 acres) of land, uprooting around 150 olive trees in Husan. Elsewhere, Israeli forces arrest 15 Palestinians during late-night raids in and around Dheisheh refugee camp, Tell, Arura, as-Samu, Tulkarm, and Attil, including a Palestinian prisoner exchanged during the ceasefire deal in November 2023; 13 Palestinians released in the prisoner exchange have been rearrested. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces arrest 20 Palestinians during raids in Isawiya. In Gaza, Israeli forces bomb Rafah, Khan Yunis, Gaza City, Nuseirat refugee camp, and Jabalia refugee camp, killing at least 81 people. Israeli forces also raid al-Shifa Hospital, killing 20 people, including the person in charge of coordinating humanitarian aid to northern Gaza, Fayeq al-Mabhouh, and arresting more than 80 people, including Al Jazeera journalist Ismail al-Ghoul, who is released 12 hours later. An Israeli soldier is killed in combat. In Lebanon, Israeli forces bomb buildings in Adissa, Ramyah, and Kafr Kila. Hezbollah forces attack Israeli facilities in Shebaa Farms, al-Tahyat Hill, and al-Bayad Bilda. In Yemen, U.S. forces bomb 13 sites, saying they are targeting weapon storage facilities, drones, and anti-ship missiles. (AJ, AJ, AJ, AP, HA, HA, HA, NYT, REU, REU, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 3/18; AJ, HA 3/19)

More than 31,726 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces in Gaza, including at least 13,400 children and 8,900 women, and around 73,792 have been injured since 10/7/2023. At least 7,000 people are missing in rubble, including 1,700 children. 426 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces and settlers in the West Bank and East Jerusalem since 10/7/2023, including 111 children. More than 4,665 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, 249 Israeli soldiers have been killed and 1,482 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. 125 trucks carrying aid enter Gaza. (UNOCHA, UNOCHA, WAFA 3/18; UNOCHA 3/20)

A UN report says famine is expected in northern Gaza in May. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres calls the imminent famine “an entirely manmade disaster” that can be halted. EU high commissioner for foreign affairs Josep Borrell says Gaza is in a “state of famine, affecting thousands of people,” adding that the Israel is using “[s]tarvation as a weapon of war.” Israel denies UNRWA commissioner-general Philippe Lazzarini entry to Gaza. (AJ, AJ, AP, AX, HA, HA, NYT, NYT, REU, REU, REU, REU, REU, UNOCHA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 3/18; NYT 3/19)

Joint List MK Ahmad Tibi says Palestinian prisoner and prominent politician Marwan Barghouti has been beaten by Israeli guards while in solitary confinement on 3/6 and 3/12, adding his life is in danger. PLO secretary-general Hussein al-Sheikh calls for international protection of Palestinian prisoners, citing the “isolation, torture and attempts to coerce, humiliate and beat” Barghouti. (AJ, HA, WAFA 3/18)

Israeli hands over the body of the 13-year-old Palestinian boy killed by Israeli forces in Shu’fat on 3/12 on the conditions that he is buried at night with no more than 50 people in attendance and that he is buried in ‘Anata rather than at a cemetery adjacent to the Old City where his relatives are buried. (WAFA 3/18)

Israeli national security minister Itamar Ben-Gvir says Israel has approved 100,000 new gun licenses since 10/7/2023. (HA 3/18; AJ 3/19)

Israel responds to South Africa’s request to the ICJ to order additional measures against Israel, calling it “morally repugnant.” (AJ, AJ, AP, REU 3/18; HA 3/19)

Reuters reports that the Israeli delegation, led by Mossad director David Barnea, that arrived in Doha today will suggest a 6-week ceasefire during which 40 captives will be released by Hamas. Multiple outlets report that the negotiations are expected to take 2 weeks and will be done with the direct but remote participation of Hamas leader in Gaza Yahya Siwnar. (AJ, AX, HA, HA, NYT, REU 3/18)

U.S. president Joe Biden speaks with Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu for the first time since 2/15. The 2 agree to have Israel send a team of officials to Washington D.C. to discuss “alternative approaches” to Israel’s planned Rafah invasion. Biden calls on Netanyahu to increase the flow of aid to Gaza. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan confirms Israel assassinated Hamas member Marwan Issa on 3/11 and that the U.S. will help Israel bring “justice” for the rest of the Hamas leadership. (AJ, AJ, AP, AX, AX, HA, HA, HA, NYT, REU, REU 3/18; AJ, HA, NYT 3/19)

The EU foreign ministers unanimously agree to sanction violent Israeli settlers. Israeli finance minister Bezalel Smotrich says Israel will respond by “strengthening and entrenching settlements in all parts of the land of Israel.” (AJ, HA, HA, REU, WAFA 3/18; WAFA 3/19)

The Canadian House of Commons passes a non-binding motion calling for an end to arms exports to Israel, an immediate ceasefire, the release of all captives held in Gaza, and working toward a 2-state solution. Language, proposed by the New Democratic Party, calling for Canada to recognize the State of Palestine was removed from the motion. Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau speaks with Israeli war cabinet member Benny Gantz, voicing concerns over the Israeli plans to invade Rafah. Gantz tells Trudeau that Canada should not unilaterally recognize the State of Palestine. (HA, NYT, REU 3/18; AJ 3/19)

The UN Security Council condemns the Houthi movement’s attack on the ship True Confidence on 3/6 which killed 3 crew members. (AJ 3/18)

Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump says “any Jewish person that votes for Democrats hates their religion. They hate everything about Israel and they should be ashamed of themselves.” White House spokesperson Andrew Bates calls Trump’s comments “vile and unhinged antisemitic rhetoric.” (HA, HA, NYT 3/18; AP, HA 3/19)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers raid Jalbun and Huwwara, opening fire at homes; no injuries are reported. Israeli forces demolish 7 agricultural structures in Barta’a and 2 agricultural structures in Qabalan. Israeli forces also deliver a stop-work notice for a Swiss-funded sports field in Qalandia and seize a vehicle and equipment. Elsewhere, Israeli forces set up 2 iron gates on roads leading to Huwwara. Israeli forces also arrest 20 Palestinians during late-night raids in and around Hebron, Jericho, Qalqilya, and Bethlehem. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces raid al-Qibli Mosque at the Haram al-Sharif compound, forcibly removing worshippers. Israeli forces also erect iron barriers at the King Faisal, al-Ghawanmeh, and al-Hadid gates to the compound. In Gaza, Israeli forces bomb al-Bureij refugee camp, Nuseirat refugee camp, Jabalia refugee camp, Khan Yunis, Gaza City, and Rafah, killing at least 69 people. Israeli forces also open fire at Palestinians waiting to receive aid at the Kuwait Roundabout in Gaza City, killing at least 21 people and injuring 155. In Beit Kama, a Palestinian citizen of Israel stabs and kills an Israeli soldier before he is shot and killed. In Lebanon, Israeli forces bomb a home in Naqoura. Israeli forces also bomb Tayr Harfa, Kunin, and Hamul. Hezbollah attacks Israeli soldiers in al-Abad. In Yemen, U.S. forces bomb 9 anti-ship missiles and 2 drones at different sites, saying Houthis fired 4 anti-ship missiles at vessels in the Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea. (AJ, AJ, HA, HA, REU, REU, UNOCHA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 3/14; AJ, AJ, HA, HA, NYT 3/15)

More than 31,341 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces in Gaza, including at least 13,400 children and 8,900 women, and around 73,134 have been injured since 10/7/2023. At least 7,000 people are missing in rubble, including 1,700 children. 425 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces and settlers in the West Bank and East Jerusalem since 10/7/2023, including 111 children. More than 4,665 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, 247 Israeli soldiers have been killed and 1,475 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. 142 trucks carrying aid enter Gaza. U.S. and Jordanian forces airdrop 13,900 meals over northern Gaza. (HA, UNOCHA, UNOCHA, WAFA 3/14; UNOCHA 3/15)

PA president Mahmoud Abbas appoints the current chairperson of the Palestine Investment Fund and former deputy prime minister and minister of national economy, Mohammed Mustafa, as the new PA prime minister. Abbas says in a statement that he asked Mustafa to create a plan to re-unify the administration of Gaza and the West Bank, lead reforms in the PA government, security services, and economy, and fight corruption. The U.S. National Security Council welcomes the appointment of Mustafa. UK foreign secretary David Cameron also welcomes the appointment. According to Axios, State Department and White House officials have met with Mustafa and heard his plans for post-war Gaza and rehabilitating the PA economy. The PA condemns Israel for setting up barriers and gates around the Haram al-Sharif compound ahead of Friday prayers. The PA also calls on the ICC to summon Israeli national security minister Itamar Ben-Gvir for incitement to kill Palestinians, citing his statement in support of the killing of a Palestinian child in East Jerusalem on 3/12. Abbas speaks with Jordanian king Abdullah II, discussing the situation in Palestine. (AJ, AJ, AX, HA, REU, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 3/14; AJ, AP, HA, NYT, NYT 3/15)

Reuters reports that Hamas has submitted a 2-stage ceasefire proposal where the first stage would see Israeli women, children, elderly, and ill captives, including female soldiers, exchanged for 700-1,000 Palestinian prisoners. During the first stage a date for a permanent ceasefire and a deadline for Israeli withdrawal from Gaza would be set. The remaining captives would be released in another prisoner exchange. The Israeli prime minister’s office calls Hamas’s terms “unrealistic” but says the war and security cabinets will discuss the proposal on 3/15. Hamas also calls on Palestinians to break the siege of the al-Aqsa Mosque. (AJ, HA, HA, REU 3/14; AJ, HA, HA, NYT, REU, REU, REU 3/15)

Representatives from several clans in Gaza tell international organizations and Israel that they will not participate in Israel’s plan to circumvent Hamas in the distribution of aid. (HA 3/14)

National Security Minister Ben-Gvir bans the Palestinian Broadcasting Corporation from broadcasting in Israel and Jerusalem. (WAFA 3/14)

The U.S. sanctions 3 Israeli settlers, Neriya Ben Pazi, Zvi Bar Yosef, and Moshe Sharvit, and the 2 settlement outposts Moshe’s Farms and Zvi’s Farms. Sharvit and Bar Yosef are responsible for the 2 outposts and are also sanctioned by the UK. (AJ, AX, HA, REU, WAFA 3/14)

Israeli defense minister Yoav Gallant signs a letter assuring the Biden administration that Israel will use U.S. weapons in accordance with international law and will allow U.S.-supported humanitarian aid to enter Gaza. (AX 3/15)

The U.S. circulates a draft resolution at the UN Security Council, supporting efforts to establish an immediate and sustained ceasefire. It is unclear when the draft will be put to a vote. (REU 3/14; AP 3/15)

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) calls for new elections in Israel, calling Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu 1 of 4 major obstacles for peace, along with “radical right-wing Israelis in government and society,” Hamas, and PA president Abbas. Schumer also says that if Netanyahu remains in power then the U.S. should “play a more active role in shaping Israeli policy by using our leverage to change the present course.” House speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) says he may introduce a standalone bill for aid to Israel, saying Schumer’s comment “made the situation even more urgent.” The House has already passed 2 Israel funding bills, which Schumer has rejected as Senate Democrats want to tie Israel funding to Ukraine funding. The Likud Party condemns Schumer’s remarks, saying “the Israeli public supports a total victory over Hamas, rejects any international dictates to establish a Palestinian terrorist state, and opposes the return of the Palestinian Authority to Gaza” and that Israel is “not a banana republic.” (AJ, AJ, AP, HA, HA, HA, HA, NYT, NYT 3/14; AJ, HA 3/15)

Leader of the Houthi movement Abdul-Malik al-Houthi says Houthi forces will attack Israeli-linked ships in the Indian Ocean that are circumventing the blockade of the Red Sea by going south of the African continent. Al-Houthi also says that 34 members of the Houthi movement have been killed since the U.S.-led anti-Houthi coalition began attacking its forces. (AJ, REU 3/14; AJ, HA 3/15)

The Toronto Star and Reuters report that Canada has stopped shipments of non-lethal military equipment, such as night vision goggles, to Israel due to concerns over human rights violations. (AJ 3/14)

The European Parliament pass a resolution denouncing the “catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza, including the risk of imminent starvation.” EU commissioner for crisis management Janez Lenarcic says that neither the EU, nor to his knowledge any other UNRWA donor, has been presented with any evidence against UNRWA employees by Israel. (AJ, REU 3/14)

In the West Bank, a Palestinian man succumbs to injuries sustained from Israeli forces on 3/4 in Burin. An Israeli settler is stabbed and injured at a bus stop near the Neve Yaakov settlement; a Palestinian child is later arrested and accused of stabbing the settler. Israeli settlers with a military escort raid Jenin to visit Joseph’s Tomb. Israeli forces shoot and injure 7 Palestinians during a raid in Dheisheh refugee camp. Israeli forces also arrest 25 Palestinians during raids in and around Hebron, Ramallah, al-Bireh, Bethlehem, Tulkarm, and Qalqilya. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces demolish a retaining wall and raze a tract of land in Silwan. In Gaza, Israeli forces bomb Nuseirat refugee camp, Jabalia refugee camp, Khan Yunis, Rafah, and Dayr al-Balah, killing at least 86 people, including al-Aqsa TV presenter Muhammad Salama and his family in Dayr al-Balah. Israeli forces also open fire at Palestinians waiting to receive aid in Gaza City, injuring 8 people. A child and an elderly man die of starvation at the Kamal Adwan Hospital, bringing the death toll from starvation to at least 20 people. In Lebanon, Israeli forces attack Yaroun, Kafra, Yatar, and Fardis. Hezbollah forces attack Metula. In Syria, Israeli forces fire artillery, saying 2 rockets were launched at the Golan Heights. In Yemen, Houthi militants fire a missile at the True Confidence cargo ship, killing 3 people. It is the first time that a Houthi attack enforcing the Red Sea blockade has caused casualties. (AJ, AJ, HA, REU, UNOCHA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 3/6; AP, AP, REU, UNOCHA, WAFA 3/7)

More than 30,717 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces in Gaza, including at least 13,400 children and 8,900 women, and around 72,156 have been injured since 10/7/2023. At least 7,000 people are missing in rubble, including 1,700 children. 416 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces and settlers in the West Bank and East Jerusalem since 10/7/2023, including 108 children. More than 4,648 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, 244 Israeli soldiers have been killed and 1,453 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. 195 trucks carrying aid enter Gaza. (REU, UNOCHA, UNOCHA, WAFA 3/6; UNOCHA 3/7)

Israel’s National Planning and Building Council approves the advancement of 3,476 new settlement units in the Ma’ale Adumim, Kedar, and Efrat settlements. 694 units in Efrat receive final approval, while 2,452 in Ma’ale Adumm and 330 in Kedar are moved to the planning process. The PA calls for sanctions to deter Israel from its settlement enterprise. Saudi Arabia, Jordan, the UAE, Egypt, Bahrain, Turkey, and Qatar condemn the settlement expansion. German asks Israel to withdraw the approval, ‘strongly condemning’ the decision. (AJ, HA, HA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 3/6; AJ, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 3/7)

HaMoked says the number of Palestinian prisoners has risen to 9,077, including more than 3,500 held in administrative detention. (AJ 3/6)

South Africa asks the ICJ to order additional emergency measures against Israel, citing imminent widespread famine, and tells the ICJ that Israel is breaching the measures the court already ruled it has to follow. (AJ, AJ, AP, HA, REU, WAFA 3/6; NYT, REU 3/7)

Israeli UN ambassador Gilad Erdan says Israel may close the UN’s headquarters in Jerusalem, deport UN officials from Israel, and evacuate UNRWA compounds in Jerusalem if UN secretary-general Antonio Guterres does not invoke Article 99 of the UN Charter to force the Security Council to discuss captives held in Gaza and allegations of sexual crimes committed on 10/7/2023. Israel approves aid funded by the UAE entering Gaza via the sea. The aid will be shipped from Cyprus to a dock controlled by Israel where it will be distributed using hovercrafts. (AJ, HA 3/6)

Qatari prime minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani meets with UK foreign secretary David Cameron, discussing the situation in Gaza and ceasefire negotiations. Cameron and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak meet Israeli war cabinet member Benny Gantz in London, telling him more aid needs to enter Gaza. (AJ, AP, HA, NYT, WAFA 3/6; NYT 3/7)

Jordanian foreign minister Ayman Safadi speaks with U.S. secretary of state Antony Blinken, calling for an immediate ceasefire. (AJ 3/6)

The Washington Post reports that the U.S. has secretly approved and delivered more than 100 separate arms shipments to Israel since 10/7/2023. The Post says the U.S. has circumvented congressional oversight in the majority of instances by processing arms sales that are below the threshold to notify Congress. The transfers include thousands of 155mm shells, tens of thousands of bomb guidance systems, Hellfire air-to-surface missiles, drones, Iron Dome munitions and more. (AJ, HA 3/6; HA 3/7)

Iraq and Qatar pledges $25 million to UNRWA. (AJ 3/6)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers raid al-‘Awja, injuring 1 man with stones, damaging 6 vehicles, and stealing 10 sheep. Israeli settlers also raid Farasin, causing extensive damage to Palestinian property. Israeli forces shoot and injure a Palestinian with live ammunition during a raid in Kafr Jamal. Israeli forces also raid Ya’bad, assaulting 2 Palestinians and seizing 2 vehicles. In East Jerusalem, 2 Israeli settlers spit at a Christian abbot from Germany, the 2 are later placed under house arrest. In Gaza, Israeli forces bomb Khan Yunis, Rafah, Dayr al-Balah, and Gaza City, killing at least 107 people. The Israeli bombs hit a fuel tank at the European Hospital, causing damage to the hospital. An Israeli soldier is killed in combat. In Lebanon, Hezbollah fires a missile at Israeli soldiers on al-Kubra hills and targets an Israeli base in Khirbet Maar. Israeli forces bomb homes in Yaroun. In Syria and Iraq, U.S. forces use 125 bombs to attack 3 sites in Iraq and 4 in Syria, killing 16 people in Iraq and 23 people in Syria. In Yemen, U.S. and UK forces, with support from Australia, Bahrain, Denmark, the Netherlands, New Zealand, and Canada, attack 36 targets in 13 different places across the country. (AJ, AP, HA, NYT, NYT 2/2; AJ, AJ, AJ, AJ, AX, AX, HA, HA, NYT, REU, REU, REU, REU, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 2/3; AJ, AJ, AP, AP, HA, HA, HA, NYT, UNOCHA, WAFA 2/4)

More than 27,283 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces in Gaza, including at least 11,500 children and 7,200 women, and around 66,452 have been injured since 10/7. At least 8,000 people are missing in rubble, including 1,700 children. 374 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces and settlers in the West Bank and East Jerusalem since 10/7, including 94 children. More than 4,408 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, including Israeli soldiers. In addition, 223 Israeli soldiers have been killed and 1,296 injured 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. At least 70,000 housing units have been destroyed and 290,000 have been damaged in Israeli airstrikes since 10/7, constituting over 60% of all housing units. (UNOCHA 2/4)

Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh meets with Turkey’s National Intelligence Agency director Ibrahim Kalin in Doha. AP reports that Hamas has started distributing salaries to government employees and Hamas employed police officers are patrolling parts of Gaza City.  (AJ, HA, HA 2/3)

PA prime minister Mohammad Shtayyeh says 5 countries that announced suspension of funding to UNRWA informed him on 2/1 that they would resume funding within weeks. (AJ 2/3)

Israeli military spokesperson Daniel Hagari says Israel has attacked Syria 50 times and Lebanon 200 times since 10/7/2023. (AJ, REU 2/3)

The Iraqi Foreign Ministry summons the U.S. charge d’affaires in Baghdad David Burger after U.S. and UK attacks in Iraq. U.S. secretary of defense Lloyd Austin says the attack on Syria and Iraq are “the start of our response” to the killing of 3 U.S. soldiers in Jordan earlier this week. (AJ, REU 2/3)

German foreign minister Anna Baerbock says Israeli plans to move its ground forces to Rafah “would simply not be justifiable.” (AJ 2/3)

The U.S. House of Representatives’ appropriations panel recommends a bill providing $17.6 billion in funding for the Israeli military, including $4.4 billion in weapons supplies, $4 billion for missile defense, $3.5 billion for financing of advanced weapons systems, $1.2 billion for the development of the Iron Beam laser missile defense, and $1 billion to improve artillery and munitions production. Speaker Mike Johnson says the House could vote on the bill next week. The House Freedom Caucus later indicates that its members will not support the bill, instead proposing that the U.S. pays for the aid to Israel by cutting funding to the UN and scrapping the IRS expansion. (AJ, HA, HA, NYT, REU 2/3; HA 2/4; HA 2/5)

Portugal announces a $1.08 million donation to UNRWA. The UAE donates $5 million to UNRWA earmarked for relief efforts in Gaza. Slovenian foreign minister Tanja Fajon says her country will not stop funding UNRWA during a meeting of EU foreign ministers. (AJ 2/3)

Israeli Channel 13 reports that Israel is considering closing the Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt due to tensions with Egypt. (AJ 2/3)

The New York Times reports that it was UNRWA commissioner-general Philippe Lazzarini who informed the U.S. on 1/24 about the Israeli allegations against 12 UNRWA staffers after a meeting with an Israeli diplomat in Tel Aviv on 1/18 where the Israeli allegations were shared with him. Lazzarini also met with UN secretary-general Antonio Guterres before sharing the information with the U.S., where they decided to fire 9 out of the 10 staffers who are still alive. (HA, NYT 2/3)

In the West Bank, Israeli settlers attack 3 Palestinian shepherds with sticks and steal some of their sheep in Rammun. Israeli settlers also assault a Palestinian man in Huwwara. Elsewhere, Israeli settlers vandalize 3 homes in al-Ghazi and Susiya in the Masafer Yatta area. Israeli forces raid the home of a former prisoner in al-Minya, vandalizing it and seizing his car. Israeli forces arrest 22 Palestinians during late-night raids in and around Hebron, Nablus, Tubas, Bethlehem, and Jenin. In East Jerusalem, Israeli authorities force a Palestinian family to demolish their own home in Silwan. In Gaza, Israeli forces bomb Jabalia refugee camp, Gaza City, Nuseirat refugee camp, Khan Yunis, Beit Lahiya, Rafah, and al-Bureij refugee camp, killing at least 165 people. Israeli forces drop leaflets in Rafah with photos of 69 captives, saying “Want to go home? Provide information if you recognize one of the hostages.” An Israeli soldier is killed in combat. In Lebanon, Israeli forces assassinate 2 Hezbollah members in a drone strike on Bazouriyeh and bomb a 3-story house in Houla. In Syria, Israeli forces attack Damascus, killing 5 Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps members. In Iraq, a missile attack on the U.S. al-Asad airbase lightly injures U.S. military service member. In Yemen, U.S. forces bomb an anti-ship missile they say was being prepared to be launched. (AJ, AJ, AJ, AJ, HA, HA, NYT, REU, REU, REU, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 1/20; AJ, AJ, HA, UNOCHA 1/21)

More than 24,927 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces in Gaza, including at least 10,600 children and 7,200 women, and around 62,388 have been injured since 10/7. At least 7,000 people are missing in rubble, including 1,700 children. 362 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces and settlers in the West Bank and East Jerusalem since 10/7, including 91 children. More than 4,310 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, including Israeli soldiers. In addition, 191 Israeli soldiers have been killed and 1,178 injured 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. At least 69,000 housing units have been destroyed and 290,000 have been damaged in Israeli airstrikes since 10/7, constituting over 60% of all housing units. 80 trucks carrying aid enter Gaza via the Rafah and Karem Abu Salem (Kerem Shalom) crossings. (UNOCHA 1/21)

Al-Baidar Organisation for Defending Bedouin Rights says Israeli forces and settlers committed 1,124 crimes against Palestinian Bedouin communities in the West Bank in 2023. (AJ 1/20)

The Popular Resistance Committees in Gaza’s al-Nasser Salah al-Deen Brigades releases a video of an Israeli captive who says he fears for his life. (AJ, HA, HA 1/20)

Hamas political bureau member Musa Abu Marzouk says Hamas is not interested in keeping the Israeli captives held in Gaza, saying Israel will be forced to make a deal agreeing to a prisoner exchange. (AJ 1/20)

Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterates his opposition to a Palestinian state, saying he “will not compromise on full Israeli security control over the entire area west of Jordan.” In response, PA spokesperson Nabil Abu Rudeinah says it is time for the U.S. to recognize the State of Palestine. (AJ, AP, HA, REU, WAFA, WAFA 1/20; AJ, NYT 1/21)

The Non-Aligned Movement issues a statement calling for a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of the remaining captives and expresses support for the South African case against Israel at the ICJ after a summit held in Kampala, Uganda. In a speech to the Non-Aligned Movement members, UN secretary-general Antonio Guterres says the “wholesale destruction of Gaza and the number of civilian casualties caused by the Israeli army in such a short period are totally unprecedented during my mandate,” calling on Israel to end its attacks. PA foreign minister Riyad al-Maliki addresses the summit, criticizing the international system for not ending the Israeli attacks on Gaza.  (AJ, AP 1/19; AJ, AP, WAFA, WAFA 1/20; WAFA 1/21)

Belgian minister of development cooperation Caroline Gennez says Belgium will “fully support” the ICJ if it “calls on Israel to cease its military campaign in Gaza.” (AJ, WAFA 1/20)

CNN reports that it has found that Israeli forces systematically destroyed cemeteries in Gaza. (AJ 1/20)

The Times reports that Gadi Eisenkot, Benny Gantz, and Ayre Deri could leave Israel’s emergency government if Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant continue to ignore their arguments for a ceasefire to bring back the remaining captives held in Gaza. (AJ, LT 1/20)

The Intercept reports that the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) donated $95,000 to House of Representative speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) after he pushed through a $14 billion aid package to Israel. AIPAC donated $104,000 to Johnson in 2023. The aid package is still stuck in the Senate. (AJ 1/20)

Israeli drones bomb a group of Palestinians allegedly launching incendiary kites and balloons into southern Israel near al-Bureij refugee camp; there are no reported injuries. On the other side of the border fence, Israeli firefighters put out 2 fires allegedly sparked by such attacks. This marks the first instance of Palestinians launching such incendiary devices into Israel since 10/25. Also along Gaza’s border, IDF troops open fire on Palestinian minors approaching the border fence near Dayr al-Balah; 1 Palestinian is 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, Israeli forces deliver a stop-work order to a Palestinian home and 3 makeshift residential structures under construction near Salfit. They also demolish 2 Palestinian residential structures in Yatta near Hebron and confiscate 2 tractors from Palestinian agricultural land near Tubas. IDF troops arrest 12 Palestinians during raids in and around Ramallah, Jenin, Hebron, and Bethlehem; and patrol near Jenin, Nablus, and Hebron. Israeli settlers assault and injure 2 Palestinians and smash the windows of a Palestinian store in central Hebron. Palestinian witnesses say that the settlers assaulted the first Palestinian after he objected to their loud music and use of foul language. (MNA, MNA, MNA, TOI, WAFA, WAFA, WAFA 10/31; PCHR, WAFA 11/1)

The Palestinian and Israeli press reports that Israel has agreed to allow Qatar to transfer money to Hamas to pay the salaries of the civil servants working for its government, in Gaza. It’s unclear if Israel has agreed in principle or if an agreement has been signed. Separately, Palestinian sources say that significant progress has been made in the Egypt-mediated talks toward a long-term cease-fire between Hamas and Israel. They don’t offer details, but they point to recent trust-building steps taken by both sides, including Israel’s decision to allow transfers of diesel fuel into Gaza for the area’s sole power plant and Hamas’s efforts to limit the violence at the ongoing Great March of Return protests. (HA, YA 10/31)

Israeli defense minister Avigdor Lieberman announces that he has ordered Gaza’s fishing zone expanded to 6 nautical miles off the northern coast and 9 nautical miles off the southern coast. Lieberman reduced the fishing zone to 3 nautical miles on 10/17 after rocket fire from Gaza. Sources in the defense minister’s office say that the move comes in the context of the Israeli government’s efforts to maintain calm along Gaza’s border fence. (AS, YA 10/31)

Along Gaza’s border fence, armed Gazans open fire on an Israeli army vehicle near Gaza City, causing no major damage. Israeli forces then fire flash bombs toward the source of the gunfire. The IAF conducts an air strike on a site near Jabaliya refugee camp allegedly being used as a staging area for incendiary kite and balloon attacks; 3 Palestinians are injured. Meanwhile, IDF troops violently disperse Palestinians gathering along the border fence near Jabaliya refugee camp to continue the Great March of Return; 1 Palestinian is injured. Off Gaza’s coast, Israeli naval forces open fire on Palestinian fishing boats near Khan Yunis, causing no damage or injuries. In the West Bank, IDF troops arrest 10 Palestinians during late-night raids near Bethlehem, Hebron, Jenin, Ramallah, and Nablus; and patrol near Qalqilya and Hebron. (MNA, TOI, YA 7/24; PCHR 7/26)

A Palestinian succumbs to injuries sustained when Israeli snipers opened fire on Great March of Return protesters along Gaza’s border on 5/14. His death brings the Great March of Return death toll to 135. (MNA, TOI, WAFA 7/24; HA 7/25)

The Israeli authorities partially reopen the Kerem Shalom border crossing, allowing more imports into Gaza. Gas, fuel, food, and medicine are now allowed to cross; commercial imports are still blocked. A statement from Israel’s Defense Ministry explains that the crossing is only being partially reopened because Hamas “has not put a complete end to terrorism, but is trying to maintain a low level of incendiary balloon launches and friction on the border fence.” (HA, MNA, TOI, WAFA, YA 7/24)

Along Gaza’s border fence, Israeli forces shell a group of Palestinian minors in Gaza congregating at a Great March of Return protest camp near Rafah, injuring 2 (1 fatally). His death later in the day brings the death toll stemming from the Great March of Return to 126. Meanwhile, unidentified Palestinians fly a number of incendiary kites and balloons into Israel, sparking at least 17 fires along the border fence. Later, an Israeli drone bombs a site in Gaza City, causing damage. In the West Bank, Israeli settlers spray-paint racist graffiti and puncture the tires of a number of Palestinian vehicles in ‘Urif village near Nablus. IDF troops arrest 1 Palestinian during a late-night raid in Hebron. (EI, HA, MNA, TOI, WAFA, YA 6/28; MNA 6/29; PCHR 7/5)

Along Gaza’s border, unidentified persons detonate 2 IEDs targeting an IDF patrol near Jabaliya refugee camp, causing no damage or injuries. Soon thereafter, the IAF bombs Hamas sites near Gaza City and Jabaliya refugee camp, injuring 1 Palestinian and causing moderate damage. An IDF spokesperson later alleges that the 2 devices were planted amid a recent border protest. (HA, JP, WAFA, YA 3/15; PCHR 3/22)

In the West Bank, IDF troops arrest 4 Palestinians and issue 1 arrest summons during late-night raids near Ramallah, Hebron, and Jenin; and patrol near Tulkarm and Hebron. In East Jerusalem, Israeli forces clash with Palestinians in al-‘Izzariya; 9 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. (WAFA 3/15; PCHR 3/22)

At a fundraising conference in Rome, officials from 90 different countries collectively pledge $100 m. for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) to address the budget shortfall caused by U.S. president Trump’s decision to cut U.S. aid to the agency in 1/2018 (see JPS 47 [3]). (JP, TOI, WAFA 3/15)

In the Gaza Strip, Palestinians fire 3 shells into s. Israel, causing no damage or injuries. Separately, Palestinians detonate a small bomb on the border with Israel, causing no injuries. In the West Bank, the IDF shoots and wounds 1 Palestinian with a rubber-coated metal bullet during clashes in Aida r.c. nr. Bethlehem. The IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in 1 village nr. Ramallah in the morning, in 1 village nr. Ramallah in the afternoon, and in Nablus and 3 villages nearby and 1 village nr. Hebron at night; patrols in 1 village nr. Hebron in the afternoon, and in 3 villages nr. Hebron at night. Jewish settlers vandalize 8 Palestinian vehicles nr. Nablus, and leave “price-tag” graffiti. (MNA, WAFA 1/21; JP 1/22; PCHR 1/23)

Israel announces plans for 381 housing units in West Bank settlement Givat Ze’ev nr. Ramallah. Israeli NGO Peace Now also reports that building plans were advanced by the Jerusalem municipality for a new settler-run visitor center in Silwan. (AFP, JP 1/21)

A car bomb kills 4 people and wounds more than 30 in Beirut, striking in a Hizballah-dominated neighborhood of the city. The attack is claimed by Jabhat al-Nusra in Lebanon, assumed to be connected to the Syriabased al-Qa‘ida-linked group. (AFP, AP 1/21)

In East Jerusalem, the IDF demolishes a Palestinian home in Bayt Hanina and an addition to a Palestinian home in Shu’fat. In the West Bank, the IDF rearrests Hamas mbr. Ayman Salama, 1 of the Palestinians released in the 1st stage of 10/2011 prisoner swap that freed IDF Cpl. Gilad Shalit; patrols in Qalqilya (briefly detaining a 13-yr.- old Palestinian who allegedly had a knife; Palestinian officials at the District Liaison Office intervene, securing his release), 1 nearby village, and 3 villages nr. Ramallah during the day; conducts synchronized late-night arrest raids, house searches in Nablus and 2 nearby villages; conducts separate late-night arrest raids, house searches in Kafr Qaddum. (PCHR 2/2; OCHA 2/3)

A day before Likud party primaries, Israeli PM Netanyahu approves new financial incentives for Jews to move to 70 West Bank settlements deemed “national priority areas” and appoints a committee to “study the status” of unauthorized settlement outposts, which some see as a move to legalize those (the vast majority) that are not built on private Palestinian land. Both steps are widely seen as aimed at appeasing party hardliners. (WP, WT 2/1; WP 2/2)

Hamas’s Haniyeh begins a 2d regional tour that will include Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Iran. The trip is aimed primarily at raising funds to rebuild Gaza. (MNR 1/30; DS 1/31)

An Israeli drone crashes during a test flight. Some suspect that the modified long-range Heron TP (Eitan) was being refitted for a possible military strike on Iran. The Heron TP is typically fitted with jamming and intelligence equipment; has a 1-ton payload capacity (enough to carry a bunker busting bomb); and can stay aloft for 40 hrs., travel 4,600 mi., and perform in-flight refueling missions. (WP 1/31)

An Islamic Jihad suicide bomber detonates a device in a Tel Aviv deli, killing 9 Israelis, wounding 59. Abbas condemns the attack, the deadliest since an 8/31/04 bombing killed 16 Israelis in Beersheba and since the 2/05 cease-fire was declared, whereas a Hamas spokesman in Gaza calls the bombing “a natural result of the continued Israeli crimes against our people”; the U.S. says that “the burden of responsibility for preventing terrorist attacks such as this one rests with the Palestinian Authority.” The IDF continues to shell the n. Gaza no-go zone (killing 1 Palestinian, wounding 2) and the s. Gaza coast from land and sea; makes an air strike on a building in Gaza City allegedly used as a factory to make rockets, causing no injuries; reopens the Sufa and Qarni crossings (closed on 4/13 and 4/15); sends troops into Nablus, where they fire on Palestinian stone throwers and on residential areas, wounding at least 16 Palestinians and damaging a clearly marked AP press vehicle; conducts arrest raids, house searches in Jenin town and r.c. (arresting the father of the 4/17 suicide bomber), in Tulkarm town and r.c., and nr. Hebron, Qalqilya. Jewish settlers fr. Elon Moreh fire on Palestinian shepherds, steal some sheep nr. Nablus. (HA, NYT, YA 4/17; MM, NYT, WP, WT 4/18; HA, MM 4/19; PCHR 4/20; OCHA 4/23)

A senior Islamic Jihad military cmdr. escapes assassination when a remote controlled bomb destroys his car moments after he parks and enters his Gaza City home. The IDF imposes a curfew on al-Mughayyir nr. Ramallah; conducts arrest raids, house searches in and around Hebron, in Qalqilya, nr. Tulkarm; occupies a Palestinian home nr. Tulkarm as an observation post; fires on, arrests 2 Palestinians attempting to sneak into Israel fr. s. Gaza to find work. Palestinians throw an explosive device at an IDF patrol nr. Ramallah, lightly wounding 1 IDF soldier; fire a mortar at a settlement in n. Gaza, causing no damage or injuries. Heeding appeals by the IDF, Jewish settlers voluntarily evacuate an unauthorized settlement outpost built east of Ofra settlement in 1995. (HA, IMEMC, XIN 7/10; YA, IDF Radio 7/10 in WNC 7/12; PCHR 7/14)

A Hamas suicide bomber is discovered outside a café in Ariel settlement, captured and pinned down by 3 IDF soldiers, fatally shot by 2 Jewish settlers; the gunfire triggers the bomber’s explosives, killing the 3 soldiers restraining him, wounding 18 soldiers and settlers. After hearing news of the bombing, Jewish settlers fr. Itamar attack Palestinians, international peace activists harvesting olives outside Yanun, injuring 6 activists, including 2 Americans (ages 68 and 74), 2 Israelis. IDF troops fatally shoot 2 Islamic Jihad mbrs. in an apparent assassination in Nablus, wounding a 7-yr.-old boy; fatally shoot 1 Palestinian checking the water tank on his roof in Jenin during the curfew; fatally shoots a Palestinian youth standing outside his home in Jenin r.c.; bulldozes 7 Palestinian homes in Rafah; bulldozes water wells, greenhouses in Muraj. A PA security court sentences a Palestinian to life with hard labor for collaborating with Israel. (al-Quds 10/27 in WNC 10/31; MM, NYT, WP, WT 10/28; MA 10/28 in WNC 10/28; LAW, PCHR 10/30; JPI, MEI 11/8)

In the 1st bombing since 8/4/02, an Islamic Jihad suicide bomber detonates a device at a bus stop in a Umm al-Fahm in Israel, killing 1 Israeli policeman, wounding a 2d policeman, 1 Israeli Arab. An AMB gunman ambushes a Jewish settler vehicle nr. Jenin, killing 1 Jewish settler, injuring a Rumanian worker; a 2d Jewish settler is found murdered in East Jerusalem; an alleged Palestinian collaborator is found murdered, apparently by Hamas. The IDF fatally shoots a Palestinian at a roadblock, claiming he attempted to run over soldiers; conducts house-to-house searches in Rafah, bulldozing 1 Palestinian home, firing on an UN delegation touring earlier damage; bulldozes 2 Palestinian homes in Abu Dis, belonging to the families of suicide bombers; demolishes 34 residential units in a General Union of Palestinian Workers housing project in `Ayn Sinya nr. Ramallah; fires on residential areas of Bayt Hanun, barring an ambulance fr. retrieving at least 1 injured Palestinian; bulldozes, paves over 5 dunams of agricultural land nr. Khan Yunis for a new settler bypass road. According to the IDF, Palestinians fire 3 antitank missiles at an IDF post nr. Rafah, causing no damage. (AP, JTA, LAW, PCHR, REU 9/18; HA, NYT, WP, WT 9/19; QA 9/19 in WNC 9/20; MM 9/20; NYT 9/21; MM 9/24; PCHR, PR 9/25; MEI 9/27; WT 10/26)

In retaliation for the 7/31 bombing, the IDF stages a predawn raid into Nablus, which Israel says is the "possible source" of the bomb, sending in more than 150 bulldozers, tanks, APCs; conducting house-to-house searches in the old city, moving fr. building to building by breaking through walls; ordering all men ages 15-50 to surrender for questioning; arresting 10s of Palestinians; demolishing 2 apartment buildings allegedly housing bomb-making labs; meeting light resistance, leaving at least 2 Palestinians dead, 5 wounded. The IDF also detains, questions, handcuffs, then fatally shoots Hamas mbr. Amjad Jabour outside his home Salim, nr. Nablus; shells residential areas of Dayr al-Balah, killing an 85-yr.-old Palestinian woman in her home; clashes with Palestinian gunmen in Rafah, fatally shooting 1 Palestinian; demolishes 6 Palestinian homes (1 Hebron, 3 Rafah, 1 Tulkarm, 1 elsewhere in the West Bank) belonging to the relatives of Palestinian militants; prepares to expel 2 brothers of 2 assailants to Gaza. (AP, MM, NYT, UPMRC, WP, WT 8/2; al-Haq, NYT, WP, WT 8/3; LAW, PCHR 8/7; WJW 8/8)

The IDF conducts a predawn arrest raid in Nablus's Askar refugee camp, detaining at least 3 Palestinians, seizing 1 Palestinian apartment as an observation post, and exchanging gunfire with residents, leaving 1 soldier wounded. The IDF conducts another predawn arrest raid in Dayr al-Balah, shelling residential areas, occupying 2 Palestinian homes as observation posts. In Beersheba, 2 Hamas gunmen open fire outside an IDF base, killing 2 IDF soldiers, wounding 4 before being shot dead by troops. In response, the IDF F-16s drop bombs on a PSF headquarters in Gaza and Ansar 2 prison; helicopter gunships fire missiles on targets around Gaza City and Jabaliya, injuring 20 Palestinians, including employees of the UN Special Coordinator's Office (UNSCO), which is damaged in the attack. UNSCO protests. Later, Palestinians fire 2 objects fr. Gaza into Israel, causing no injuries; at least 1 of the devices leaves a 7-ft. hole, leading the IDF to suspect that it was a Qassam-2 rocket, rather than a mortar, which would mark the 1st time Palestinians have fired one of the homemade missiles. The IDF later reports it has confiscated 3 empty rocket launchers in Gaza. Jewish settlers severely beat a Palestinian teenager nr. Tal Rumayda; beat, rob another teenager nr. Nablus; bulldoze 12 dunams of olive groves nr. Antalia settlement. (MEZ, WP 2/10; XIN 2/10 in WNC 2/11; MM, NYT, WP 2/11; CSM 2/12; JT 2/12 in WNC 2/13; LAW, PCHR 2/13; MEI 2/22)

Sharon returns fr. the U.S., immediately calls for a mtg. of his inner cabinet to discuss how to respond to recent Palestinian attacks. (NYT 2/11)

The State Dept. confirms that Powell has received correspondence fr. Arafat regarding the Karine A affair, saying he was not involved but that as leader of the PA, he will take responsibility for the incident, punish those responsible. (WT 2/11; NYT 2/12, 2/14)

An IDF autopsy performed in the presence of a Palestinian doctor confirms that the 14-yr.-old Palestinian who died in Jerusalem on 2/8 was killed by an IDF bullet. (LAW 2/10, 2/13)

An Israeli bus driver coming fr. Ma'ale Adumim stops at an Israeli checkpoint into Jerusalem, warns border police of a suspicious passenger on board. Israeli border police scuffle with and detain a Palestinian passenger wearing an explosive device, which is defused by bomb experts. Later, a Hamas gunman dressed as an IDF soldier infiltrates a home in the West Bank settlement of Hamra, fatally shoots 2 Jewish settlers, 1 IDF soldier, wounds 4 settlers before being shot dead by soldiers. In response, IDF F-16s bomb 2 prisons in Nablus, injuring 11 Palestinians. During the strikes, wardens release 25 Hamas, Islamic Jihad prisoners (including 2 of Israel's most wanted, Islamic Jihad mbrs. Mahmud Tawalba, Ali Safuri) for their safety but keep 103 suspected collaborators in custody. The IDF also captures a vegetable truck on Jenin-Nablus road loaded with 8 Qassam-2 missiles and a launcher; fatally shoots 1 Palestinian who threw a hand grenade at an IDF post on the Rafah border; demolishes 3 Palestinian homes in Bayt Hanina and Shu`fat; arrests 3 Palestinian fishermen off the Gaza coast, confiscates their boats. The IDF also raids, confiscates the files of, and closes the East Jerusalem offices of 2 NGOs that represent Palestinian interests: the Arab Studies Society's Land Research Center, the Welfare Association's Multisectoral and Technical Offices. (AP, LAW 2/6; MM, NYT, WP, WT 2/7; NYT, WP, WT 2/8; NYT 2/9; MA 2/10 in WNC 2/11; MA 2/11 in WNC 2/12; PCHR 2/13; HA 2/17)

In a report to Congress, CIA Dir. George Tenet identifies several "terrorist groups"--including Hamas, Islamic Jihad, the PFLP--that have no ties to al-Qa`ida but could be future U.S. targets because they have "displayed anti-U.S. sentiments" and have threatened U.S. interests overseas. (WP 2/10)

As Israeli-Palestinian clashes pick up slightly, Israel says it is not satisfied with the PA's cease-fire efforts. A serious exchange of gunfire, grenades, missiles takes place in Rafah, leaving 22 Palestinians, 3 IDF soldiers wounded. Another Israeli injured in the 6/1 bombing dies, raising the toll to 20. The PSF arrests 2 Palestinians in connection to the 6/1 bombing. Palestinians fire 1 mortar in Gaza, causing no damage. The IDF bulldozes 50 dunams of Palestinian land nr. Kefar Darom settlement; shells residential areas of Asira. Jewish settlers shoot at Palestinian homes, vehicles in Hebron, Jinin; attack Palestinians nr. Dahiyat al-Barid, Tulkarm. (AFP [Internet], HP 6/4; NYT, WP, WT 6/5; MM, PMC 6/6; MM 6/11)

In light of today's Gaza gun battle, the Bush admin. concludes the Israeli-Palestinian situation is on the verge of spinning out of control. After securing Sharon's consent, the State Dept. announces that CIA Dir. George Tenet will head to the region to seek a more durable cease-fire but emphasizes that the pressure will be on Arafat to demonstrate he is serious. Powell demands the PA arrest Islamists who may be planning attacks, resume security cooperation with Israel. (NYT, WP, WT 6/5; MM, NYT, WP 6/6; JT 6/7 in WNC 6/8; MEI 6/15)

As Israeli-Palestinian clashes continue, 2 bombs explode on a bus in Tel Aviv, injuring 13 Israelis, and a roadside bomb detonates in Gaza, killing 1 IDF soldier, 1 Israeli border policeman, injuring 2 other soldiers. Israel seals the borders of the West Bank, Gaza. Jewish settlers attack Palestinian homes nr. Hebron. The IDF bulldozes 115 dunams of agricultural land nr. Bayt Hanun. (REU 12/28; NYT, WP, WT 12/29; WT 12/30; PCHR 1/6)

Pres. Clinton tells Arafat he sees no point in further discussion with the PA until Arafat accepts the 12/23 parameters, stating the U.S. will not reply to the PA's 12/27 letter. Clinton phones the leaders of Egypt, Jordan, Russia, Saudi Arabia to urge them to back the parameters. (MENL 12/28; MENA 12/28, SA 12/31 in WNC 1/2; HA, MA [Internet], NYT, WP, WT, YA 12/29; YA 1/10)

In New York, 3 days of secret PA-Israeli talks on the Clinton parameters end in a deadlock. (MA [Internet] 12/28, 12/31) (see 12/26)

IDF soldiers shoot across the blue line with Lebanon, injuring 5 Lebanese civilians, including 1 child, hurling stones and firecrackers across the border nr. the disputed Abbad Hill. (MEI 1/12)

As the IDF withdraws fr. s. Lebanon, Hizballah mbrs. enter vacated areas, Lebanese civilians arrive en masse fr. the north to celebrate and visit, SLA mbrs. desert or flee toward Israel seeking asylum. Israeli tanks and warplanes repeated fire close to crowds to halt their advance, killing 6 civilians, including aLebanese driver for BBC, and wounding lOs. Israeli planes also bomb IDF tanks, artillery, armored personnel carriers abandoned by the SLA. (MM 5/22; CSM, MM, NYT, WP, WT 5/23; Interfax, al-Quds 5/23 in WNC 5/24; WP, WT 5/24; MEI 6/2, 6/30)

With cabinet approval, Barak orders an accelerated evacuation of IDF troops fr. the remaining half of s. Lebanon still under Israeli control and sends tanks and troops fr. deep inside Israel to reinforce the northern border. 1,OOOs of Israelis leave their homes in towns nr. the Lebanese border and stream south, fearing cross-border shelling fr. Hizballah. (MM 5/22; MA [Internet], MM, NYT, WP, WT, YA [Internet] 5/23; CSM, WP 5/24; AYM 5/24 in WNC 5/26)

To speed UN verification of Israel's withdrawal fr. Lebanon, UN Secy.-Gen Kofi Annan recommends that the UN immediately expand UNIFIL fr. 4,500 to 5,600 troops and draft aseparation line ("blue line") conforming to, but not constituting, the internationally recognized border. (MM, NYT, WP 5/23; MM, WT 5/24)

PLO supporters, running as "Nationalist Muslim List," win 9 of 12 seats in elections for chamber of commerce and industry in Nablus. Hamas supporters win other 3 seats. Elections were the first for the chamber in 18 years. (MM 5/21)

Palestinian negotiator Haydar 'Abd al-Shafi condemns internecine killing of Palestinians in o.t. (Qol Yisra'el 5/21 in FBIS 5/21)

IDF planes bomb Islamic Resistance positions near Janta in E. Lebanon's Biqa' Valley, 5 km. from border with Syria; 6 Hizballah fighters and 1 Iranian Revolutionary Guard fighter are killed. jets also bomb 2 other villages in S. Lebanon while helicopters attack home of Hizballah commander in Jibshit. IDF, SLA artillery shell 5 villages as fierce fighting enters third day. (MM 5/21; WP, MM 5/22)

SOCIAL POLITICAL:

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Israeli Dep. Cabinet Min. warns 50-100,000 Israelis may emigrate in 1984. Israeli police report material evidence links shooting of Nablus girls (12/8/83) to Yosef Harnoi (of Tel Aviv & Elon Moreh); Pinhas Mahrabi and Ephraim Segal as accomplices. 19th anniversary of establishment of PLO. Hanna Nakkara distinguished Palestinian advocate, well-known for his work in defense of Bedouin rights and against land confiscation, dies in Haifa.

MILITARY ACTION:

Occupied Palestine/Israel: Rida Hashem Zeid Keelani of Jenin shot dead by Israeli patrol at Jalazoun refugee camp for failing to stop for identity check; occupation authorities force family to bury body at night to avoid attention; IDF later announces victim listed as suspected terrorist. Central Nablus placed under curfew after petrol bomb attack on IDF foot patrol; later, petrol bomb hurled at patrol in Balata refugee camp; petrol bomb attack reported in Jabaliya refugee camp in Gaza Strip.

Military Action:

6 separate attacks against IDF include tank damaged by mine near Kafr Shima, explosion on road south of Damour near IDF patrol, APC hit by explosion at Kabar Shamoun, small arms fire at IDF trucks in Beirut, bomb near troop buses, small arms fire at IDF patrols near Zaharani river.

Casualties:

IDF reports 1 soldier killed, 3 injured in attacks, Lebanese National Resistance Front says 20 IDF killed or wounded.

Political Responses:

Israel/ Occupied Territories: Israel makes no official response to Hussein's decision regarding negotiations, reportedly considers Reagan plan dead; new WZO settlement department plan calls for 57 new settlements in next 4 years, bringing total to 165, with Jewish population of West Bank 100,000 by 1986 and Jewish-Arab population parity at 1.3 million in 30 years; spokesman for Israeli Embassy in US says West Bank land is being sold in the US not by government but by private group associated with Kedumim settlement; 10,000 dunums from Surif village near Hebron declared state land under military order 59; High Court legalizes 1976 imposition of Value Added Tax (VAT) in occupied territories; Cabinet nominates Meir Rosenne, ambassador to France, to replace Arens as ambassador to US.

Palestinians/ Lebanese: PLO officials deny Jordanian statement that Hussein and Arafat had reached agreement on a course of political action; Issam Sartawi assassinated at Socialist International congress in Portugal, Abu Nidal group claims responsibility.

Arab Governments: Jordan says Hussein and Arafat had reached agreement in principle and detail, PLO now proposes different course, so Jordan will not enter peace talks on basis of Reagan plan, will not act separately or in lieu of any party, and will leave it to PLO and Palestinian people to choose the ways and means for the salvation of themselves and their land.

US and Other Countries: Reagan says radical elements in PLO introduced changes in peace proposals that are an impediment, and are unacceptable to King Fahd, King Hussein and to US; Reagan telephones Kings Fahd, Hussein, and Hassan II of Morocco.