The IDF makes a predawn raid on Gaza City, evacuates 2,000 Palestinians fr. their homes, blows up a PSF post, 3 unfinished 12-story PSF apartment buildings overlooking the IDF Netzarim post attacked on 10/23. The IDF also fatally shoots 3 armed Palestinians attempting to infiltrate a Gaza settlement; conducts arrest raids in Bethlehem; fires on residential areas of Khan Yunis; imposes a curfew on, conducts arrest raids and house searches in Qalqilya. Palestinians fire a Qassam rocket at Sederot, causing nodamage or injuries. At least 1 Palestinian dies of injuries received in Gaza City on 10/22. Israeli airport authorities arrest, hold for deportation 4 Belgians suspected of arriving at Ben Gurion Airport on a Palestinian solidarity visit. (HA, NYT, WP, WT 10/26; VOP 10/26 in WNC 10/28; MM, NYT 10/27; al-Quds 10/28 in WNC 10/30; PR, WT 10/29; PCHR 10/30; MEI 11/7; WP 11/21)
Sunday, October 26, 2003