Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (02- 08 January 2014)

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Israeli forces detain 4 Palestinian children at the entrance of Halhoul town, north of Hebron

Israeli forces continue systematic attacks against Palestinian civilians and property in the occupied Palestinian territory (oPt)

Israeli forces have continued to open fire at border areas in the Gaza Strip.
A Palestinian civilian was wounded in the northern Gaza Strip.

Israeli forces launched 5 airstrikes on the Gaza Strip.
2 members of an armed group were wounded.
2 children were wounded by pieces of smashed glass.
2 schools and about 20 houses sustained partial damage.

Israeli forces have continued to use excessive force against peaceful protesters in the West Bank.

10 Palestinian civilians, including a child and a woman, and an international activist, were wounded.
A protestor was wounded at the northern entrance of Ayda refugee camp, north of Bethlehem.

Israeli forces conducted 72 incursions into Palestinian communities in the West Bank and 3 limited ones in the Gaza Strip.

At least 66 Palestinians, including 7 children, were arrested.

Israel has continued to impose a total closure on the oPt and has isolated the Gaza Strip from the outside world.
Israeli forces established dozens of checkpoints in the West Bank.
At least 2 Palestinian civilians were arrested at checkpoints in the West Bank.

Israeli navy forces have continued targeting Palestinian fishermen in the sea.
Israeli naval forces opened fire 6 times at Palestinian fishing boats in the northern Gaza Strip, but no casualties were reported.

Israeli forces have continued to support settlement activities in the West Bank and Israeli settlers have continued to attack Palestinian civilians and property.
20 old olive trees were damaged in Yatta town, south of Hebron.
Israeli settlers attempted to set fire to a mosque in Deir Estya village in Salfit.

Summary

Israeli violations of international law and international humanitarian law in the oPt continued during the reporting period (09 – 15 January 2014).

Shooting:

During the reporting period, Israeli forces wounded 12 Palestinian civilians, including 2 children and a woman, and an international activist. 10 of whom were wounded during weekly protests throughout the West Bank, one was wounded at the northern entrance of Ayda refugee camp and 3 others, including one civilian and 2 members of an armed group, were wounded in airstrikes in the Gaza Strip.

In the Gaza Strip, Israeli forces carried out 5 airstrikes, 2 shooting incidents along the border fence and 6 shooting incidents at Palestinian fishing boats.

On 09 January 2014, 2 members of an armed group were wounded when an Israeli warplane fired a missile at a Tuk Tuk, east of Khan Yunis, in the southern Gaza Strip. Moreover, a 3-year-old child sustained minor injuries by glass fragments.

On the same day, an Israeli warplane fired a missile at a training site belonging to al-Quds Brigades (the armed wing of the Islamic Jihad), west of Rafah. The same training site was attacked again 15 minutes later, but no casualties were reported in both attacks.

On 11 January 2014, a civilian was wounded when Israeli forces stationed along the border fence, east of Jabalia, in the northern Gaza Strip, opened fire at a group young men who were a few meters away from the fence. On 14 January 2014, Israeli forces stationed along the border fence, east of Deir al-Balah in the central Gaza Strip, opened fire sporadically at farmlands for an hour, but no casualties were reported.

On 13 January 2014, Israeli warplanes launched 3 airstrikes against training sites belonging to Palestinian armed groups, south of Deir al-Balah and northeast of al-Nusseirat in the central Gaza Strip. As a result, the sites were damaged and a 3-year-old child was wounded by glass fragments as he was standing with his father in front of a grocery, east of al-Nuseirat. Besides, 2 UNRWA schools and over 20 houses sustained partial damage.

In the context of targeting fishermen in the sea, Israeli forces fired at fishermen 6 times on 11, 13, 14 and 15 January 2014, but neither casualties nor material damage were reported.

In the West Bank, Israeli forces continued the systematic use of excessive force against peaceful protests organised by Palestinian, Israeli and international activists against the construction of the annexation wall and settlement activities in the West. As a result, 10 civilians, including 2 children, a woman and an international activist, were wounded.

On 15 January 2014, a Palestinian civilian sustained a bullet wound to the left leg when Israeli forces stationed at the northern entrance of Ayda refugee camp, north of Bethlehem, opened fire at a group of boys who gathered at that entrance and threw stones and empty bottles at Israeli soldiers.

Incursions:

During the reporting period, Israeli forces conducted at least 72 military incursions into Palestinian communities in the West Bank. During these incursions, Israeli forces arrested at least 66 Palestinians, including 7 children.

In the Gaza Strip, Israeli forces conducted 3 limited incursions into the north and south of the Gaza Strip on 09, 14 and 15 January 2014.

Restrictions on movement:

Israel continued to impose a tightened closure of the oPt, imposing severe restrictions on the movement of Palestinian civilians in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, including occupied East Jerusalem.

The illegal closure of the Gaza Strip, which has steadily tightened since June 2007 has had a disastrous impact on the humanitarian and economic situation in the Gaza Strip. The Israeli authorities impose measures to undermine the freedom of trade, including the basic needs for the Gaza Strip population and the agricultural and industrial products to be exported. For 7 consecutive years, Israel has tightened the land and naval closure to isolate the Gaza Strip from the West Bank, including occupied Jerusalem, and other countries around the world. This resulted in a grave violation of the economic, social and cultural rights and a deterioration of living conditions for 1.7 million people. The Israeli authorities has established Karm Abu Salem (Kerem Shaloum) as the sole crossing for imports and exports in order to exercise its control over the Gaza Strip’s economy that has been aggravating for years due to the shortage of imports. They also aim at imposing a complete ban on the Gaza Strip’s exports.

Israeli forces have continued to impose severe restrictions on the movement of Palestinian civilians throughout the West Bank, including occupied East Jerusalem. Thousands of Palestinian civilians from the West Bank and the Gaza Strip continue to be denied access to Jerusalem.

As part of using military checkpoints and border crossings as traps to arrest Palestinian civilians under the pretext they are wanted, Israeli forces arrested at least 2 civilians in the West Bank.

Settlement activities

Israel has continued its settlement activities in the oPt, a direct violation of international humanitarian law, and Israeli settlers have continued to attack Palestinian civilians and property.

Attacks carried out by Israeli forces

On 09 January 2014, Israeli forces backed by military vehicles, moved into Um Sararah area adjacent to Kherbet al-Fakhit (al-Mosafer area), southeast of Yatta town south of Hebron. Israeli forces patrolled the vicinity of the area and deployed on the farmlands. They prevented the movement of civilians and declared it a closed military zone. Israeli soldiers confiscated barbwires and uprooted a large number of woodland trees, which were less than 1 year old and were planted to establish a nature reserve on a 1000-dunum land donated by the Mehmed family to the Ministry of Agriculture. The project was funded by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).

On 12 January 2014, Israeli forces accompanied by officers from the organization department in the Civil Administration and police officers confiscated a green John Deere tractor belonging to Mustafa ‘Aqab Ban ‘Odah when he was working on a farmland in al-Ra’s al-Ahmar area north of the Jordan Valley, east of Tubas.

Attacks carried out by settlers

On 13 January 2014, settlers from “Ma’oon” settlement established on Palestinians lands, east of Yatta town south of Hebron, cut and smashed branches of 20 old olive trees by handsaws in Mo’in Valley area belonging to Khader Mos’ef al-‘Amour and his brothers from al-Tawani village, east of the town.

On 14 January 2014, around 300 settlers from “Kiryat Arbaa’” settlement and “Hafat Jal” outpost established on confiscated Palestinian lands, east of Hebron, organized a demonstration in Khelet ‘Abdoh area in the eastern area of the city. The demonstration was organized under intensive guard by the Israeli forces and police. They entered farmlands belonging to the al-Zaro and Abu Rmeilah families and damaged stone chains. They planted a number of olive trees in the lands confiscated by the Israeli forces since 1972 under the pretext that they are military training areas, to which their owners are denied access into them. This comes in an attempt by settlers to seize this land for the benefit of settlement expansions projects in “Hafat Jal” outpost.

On 15 January 2014, a group of settlers set fire to Imam Ali bin Abi Talib Mosque in Deir Estiya village, north of Salfit, and wrote hostile slogans on its wall in Hebrew. Settlers set fire in the vicinity of the mosque, so carpets at the entrance were burnt and continued burning till fire extended into the mosque burning a part of it.

Israeli Violations Documented during the Reporting Period (09 – 15 January 2014)

1. Incursions into Palestinian Areas, and Attacks on Palestinian Civilians and Property in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip

Thursday, 09 January 2014

At approximately 01:30, Israeli forces moved into the centre of Hebron. They patrolled the streets and raided and searched a house belonging to Shaker Abdul Rahman al-Jundi (40). They arrested the aforementioned person. In the meantime, Israeli forces raided and searched other houses from which they arrested another 3 civilians:
1. Hammad Magmoud Hussein al-Barbarawi (30);
2. Mahmoud Shehda Abdul Razeq Manasra (36); and
3. Bassam Fadel Dawood Abu Sneina.

Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Halhoul town, north of Hebron. They patrolled the streets and stationed in the west of the town. They also raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Ibrahim Yusef Zama’ra (29). They arrested the aforementioned person and took him to an unknown destination.

At approximately 01:40, Israeli forces moved into al-Dheisha refugee camp, southwest of Bethlehem. They raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Mohammed Hasan al-Zaghari. They arrested his 2 sons: Morad (20) and Ashraf (18). Israeli forces raided another house belonging to the family of Mohammed Masri Abed Rabbu (21) and arrested him as well.

At approximately 02:00, Israeli forces moved into Beit Ummar town, north of Hebron. They patrolled the streets and raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Shadi Ahmed Abu Ayyash (23). They arrested the aforementioned person and took him to an unknown destination.

Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into al-Aroub refugee camp, north of Hebron. They patrolled the streets and stationed in the centre of the camp. They withdrew later and neither house raids nor arrests were reported.

At approximately 02:45, Israeli forces moved into Jenin. They patrolled the strets and raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Mohammed Ahmed Mahmoud Souqiya (39). They arrested the aforementioned person and took him to an unknown destination.

At approximately 03:00, Israeli forces moved into al-Samou’ village, south of Hebron. They patrolled the streets and stationed in the centre of the village. They raided and searched 2 houses from which they arrested Ayman Ali Abu Arqoub (29) and Anas Ali Rab’i.

At approximately 03:30, Israeli forces moved into al-Majd village, west of Doura, southwest of Hebron. They patrolled the streets for some time and withdrew later. Neither house raids nor arrests were reported.

At approximately 07:00, Israeli forces moved about 200 meters into Khuza’a village, east of Khan Yunis. They levelled lands along the border fence, moved northwards to Abassan village and withdrew later.

At approximately 07:30, an Israeli warplane fired a missile at a Tuk Tuk motorcycle driven by 2 members of a Palestinian armed group, east of Khan Yunis, in the southern Gaza Strip. As a result, the 2 persons were wounded and then taken to Nasser Hospital to receive the necessary medical treatment. Their wounds were described as moderate. As a result of the attack also, windows of nearby houses were damaged and Heba Abdullah al-Ghalban (3) sustained minor injuries as the smashed glass scattered around.

At approximately 10:00, Israeli forces moved into Ertah suburb, south of Tulkarm. They patrolled the streets for some time and withdrew later. Neither house raids nor arrests were reported.

At approximately 11:00, Israeli forces moved into Tulkarm. They patrolled the streets and raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Baha’ Emad Qa’dan (26), who was arrested few days ago. Israeli forces withdrew later and no further incidents were reported.

At approximately 11:30, Israeli forces moved into Anabta village, east of Tulkarm. They patrolled the streets for some time and withdrew later. Neither house raids nor arrests were reported.

Around the same time, an Israeli warplane fired a missile at a training site belonging to al-Quds brigades (the armed wing of Islamic Jihad), west of Rafah, in the southern Gaza Strip. However, no casualties were reported. 15 minutes later, an Israeli warplane attacked the same site again.

Friday, 10 January 2014

At approximately 01:00, Israeli forces moved into al-Fawar refugee camp, south of Hebron. They patrolled the streets for some time and withdrew later. Neither house raids nor arrests were reported.

Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Tawoos village, south of Doura, southwest of Hebron. They patrolled the streets for some time and withdrew later. Neither house raids nor arrests were reported.

Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Deir Samet village, southwest of Doura, southwest of Hebron. They patrolled the streets and raided 2 houses belonging to Mousa Ali al-Adam (32) and Eyad Mahmoud Saleh al-Hroub (31). They handed them 2 summonses to refer to the Israeli intelligence service in "Gosh Etzion" settlement, south of Bethlehem.

At approximately 02:00, Israeli forces moved into Bani Na’im village, south of Hebron. They patrolled the streets for some time and withdrew later. Neither house raids nor arrests were reported.

Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into al-Shyoukh village, east of Hebron. They patrolled the streets for some time and withdrew later. Neither house raids nor arrests were reported.

At approximately 14:00, Israeli forces moved into Halhoul town, north of Hebron. They patrolled the streets and stationed at the eastern entrance of the town. Israeli forces deployed in the area, where a number of boys gathered and threw stones and empty bottles at Israeli soldiers, who fired sound bombs and tear gas canisters in response. In the meantime, Israeli soldiers detained 4 children who were present in the area under the pretext they threw stones at Israeli soldiers. The 4 children, who were delivered to the Palestinian military liaison later, are: Oudai Emad al-Tawayha (16); Asem Emad al-Tawayha (13); Suleiman Emad al-Tawayha (12) and Ali Said Hneihen (12).

Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into moved into Nablus and Balata refugee camp, east of the city. They patrolled the streets and raided and searched a number of houses. They arrested Jasser Abu Hamada (41), a technician in the Palestinian Telecommunication Company.

Also around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Nablus. They patrolled the streets and raided and searched a number of houses. They arrested Mohammed Walid Issa (26), from the old town.

At approximately 14:10, Israeli forces moved into Qalqilia. They patrolled the streets firing gas canisters at al-Shareqa School in the centre of the city. They also arrested Mohamed Ibrahim Burhum (14) and Laith Walid Ouda (19) while being present in the area.

At approximately 16:00, Israeli forces moved into Mothallath al-Aqaba, south of Doura, southwest of Hebron. They stationed at the entrance of a dirt road connecting al-Tabaqa village with Oyoun Abu Seif Street. They deployed between houses of al-Shahateet family. A number of boys gathered and threw stones and empty bottles at Israeli soldiers, who fired sound bombs and tear gas canisters in response. As a result, a number of civilians suffered tear gas inhalation, but no arrests were reported.

At approximately 23:00, Israeli forces moved into Abu Sneina neighbourhood in the south of Hebron. They patrolled the streets and raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Mohammed Nafez Abu Sneina. They arrested the aforementioned person and withdrew later.

Saturday, 11 January 2014

At approximately 00:30, Israeli forces moved into Beit Our al-Tahta village, southwest of Ramallah. They raided and searched 3 houses using sniffer dogs and arrested 3 civilians, including 2 children:
1. Nour al-Deen Rajeh Suleiman (14);
2. Mohammed Rakez Jaber Suleiman (15); and
3. Saber Mosbah Khader Suleiman (22).

At approximately 01:30, Israeli forces moved into Ne’lin village, west of Ramallah. They raided a house belonging to the family of Mohammed Abdul Qader Amira (43). They handed him a summons to refer to the Israeli intelligence service. They withdrew later and no arrests were reported.

At approximately 03:00, Israeli forces moved into Qalqilia. They patrolled the streets and raided and searched a number of houses from which they arrested 3 civilians: Ibrahim Salim Salim (23); Mohammed Taleb Salim (23) and Ja’fer Ahmed Enaya (23).

Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Azzoun village, east of Qalqilia. They raided and searched a number of houses from which they arrested:
1. Ja’fer Ahmed Hussein (22);
2. Mohammed Abdul Karim Salim (24);
3. Ibrahim Nidal Salim (20);
4. Oudai Samir Abu Haniya (20); and
5. Anas Rafe’ Ahmed Qatesh (15).
Two days later, Qatesh was released, but the others have remained in custody.

At approximately 07:00, Israeli gunboats stationed off Khan Yunis, in the southern Gaza Strip, opened fire at Palestinian fishing boats that were sailing within the 3 nautical miles limit. The fishermen were forced to sail back fearing of being wounded or arrested, and neither casualties nor material damage were reported.

At approximately 16:15, Israeli forces stationed along the border fence, east of al-Shuhada cemetery, east of Jabalia, in the northern Gaza Strip, opened fire at a group of young men who were present near the fence. As a result, Mahmoud Atef Mohammed Lubbad (22), from Jabalia refugee camp, sustained a bullet wound (entered and exited) to the left leg. Other young men carried him and ran about 700 meters westwards, where an ambulance of the Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS) met them. The wounded young man was taken to Kamal Odwan Hospital in Beit Lahia. He was admitted to the hospital at 16:53. Doctors checked his wound and found a fracture in the leg, so he needed an operation to fix platinum bars into his leg.

Sunday, 12 January 2014

At approximately 00:40, Israeli forces moved into Bethlehem. They patrolled the streets and stationed on al-Saff street. They raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Saleh Walid al-Hreimi (17) and arrested him.

At approximately 01:00, Israeli forces moved into Kharas village, west of Hebron. They patrolled the streets and stationed in the centre of the village. They also took photos of a number of houses and stores and withdrew later. Neither house raids nor arrests were reported.

Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Doura, southwest of Hebron. They patrolled the streets for some time and withdrew later. Neither house raids nor arrests were reported.

At approximately 01:30, Israeli forces moved into al-Douha village, southwest of Bethlehem. They patrolled the streets and raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Guevara Suleiman al-Hantouli (26). They arrested the aforementioned person and took him to an unknown destination.

At approximately 01:50, Israeli forces moved into Salfit. They raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Rami Fawzi Remal (22). They handed him a summons to refer to the Israeli intelligence service. Israeli forces withdrew at approximately 02:00, and no arrests were reported.

At approximately 02:00, Israeli forces moved into Sa’ir village, east of Hebron. They patrolled the streets and raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Morad Ahmed al-Jabareen (29). They handed him a summons to refer to the Israeli intelligence service in "Gosh Etzion" settlement, south of Bethlehem.

Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Ethna village, west of Hebron. They patrolled the streets and deployed between the houses. They raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Jebreel Mohammed al-Jiyawi. They withdrew later and no arrests were reported.

At approximately 03:00, Israeli forces moved into Ayda refugee camp, north of Bethlehem. They raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Ahmed Attallah Mashayekh (21). They arrested the aforementioned person ad took him to an unknown destination.

At approximately 03:30, Israeli forces moved into Ne’lin village, west of Ramallah. They raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Hassan Khaled Hassan Nafe’ (25). They withdrew later and no arrests were reported.

At approximately 21:00, Israeli forces moved into Termis’ya village, north of Ramallah. They patrolled the streets for some time and withdrew later. No arrests were reported.

At approximately 22:30, Israeli forces moved into Deir Qeddis village, west of Ramallah. They patrolled the streets for some time and withdrew later. No arrests were reported.

Monday, 13 January 2014

At approximately 00:00, Israeli forces moved into Anza village, south of Jenin. They patrolled the streets and raided a house belonging to the family of Ashraf Marwan Tajeh Khader (21). They handed him a summons to refer to the Israeli intelligence service in Salem detention facility, northwest of the city. No arrests were reported.

At approximately 01:30, Israeli forces moved into Nablus. They patrolled the streets and raided and searched a number of houses. They arrested Oudai Mohammed Nafe’ Berri (25), an engineering student at Khadouri University in Tulkarm, from his family’s house. It should be noted the detainee suffers from health problems in the colon and a middle ear infection.

Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Burin village, southeast of Nablus. They patrolled the streets and raided and searched a number of houses. They withdrew later and no arrests were reported.

Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Zawata village, northwest of Nablus. They patrolled the streets and raided and searched a number of houses. Israeli forces withdrew later and no arrests were reported.

Also around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Sa’ir village, east of Hebron. They patrolled the streets and raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Mohammed Ra’ef Masalma (22). They arrested the aforementioned person. In the meantime, a number of soldiers raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Hammam Ibrahim Abu Theraye’ (21). They arrested him as well and withdrew later.

Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Yatta, south of Hebron. They patrolled the streets and raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Ahmed Yasser Awad (29). They arrested the aforementioned person and took him to an unknown destination.

Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Beit Our al-Tahta village, southwest of Ramallah. They raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Thabet Jamal Yusef Suleiman (21). They arrested the aforementioned person and took him to Ofer detention facility.

At approximately 02:00, Israeli forces moved into Hebron. They patrolled the streets and raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Mahmoud Mohammed Abu Dawood, (27). They arrested the aforementioned person and took him to an unknown destination.

Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Sourif village, northwest of Hebron. They patrolled the streets and deployed between the houses. They withdrew later. Neither house raids nor arrests were reported.

Also around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Sa’ir village, east of Hebron. They patrolled the streets and raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Ahnaf Yusef al-Froukh (32). They arrested the aforementioned person and took him to an unknown destination.

At approximately 02:30, Israeli forces moved into Halhoul town, north of Hebron. They patrolled the streets for some time and withdrew later. Neither house raids nor arrests were reported.

At approximately 03:00, Israeli forces moved into Awarta village, southeast of Nablus. They patrolled the streets and raided and searched a number of houses. They withdrew later and no arrests were reported.

Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Qasra village, southeast of Nablus. They patrolled the streets and raided and searched a number of houses. They withdrew later and no arrests were reported.

Also around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Jaloud village, east of Nablus. They patrolled the streets and raided and searched a number of houses. They withdrew later and no arrests were reported.

Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Qaryout village, southeast of Nablus. They patrolled the streets and raided and searched a number of houses. They withdrew later and no arrests were reported.

Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Nimra area, northeast of Hebron. They patrolled the streets and raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Ashraf Othman Bader (28). They arrested the aforementioned person and took him to an unknown destination.

At approximately 07:30, Israeli gunboats stationed off the northwest of Beit Lahia shore, in the northern Gaza Strip, opened fire at Palestinian fishing boats that were sailing 3 3 nautical miles offshore. The fishermen sailed back fearing of being arrested or wounded. Neither casualties nor material damage were reported.

At approximately 21:00, Israeli forces moved into Beit Luqia village, southwest of Ramallah. They patrolled the streets in a provocative manner. Some boys gathered and threw stones at Israeli soldiers, who fired rubber-coated metal bullets, sound bombs and tear gas canisters. A number of civilians suffered tear gas inhalation. Israeli forces withdrew later and no arrests were reported.

At approximately 15:20, Israeli gunboats stationed off the northwest of Beit Lahia shore, in the northern Gaza Strip, opened fire at Palestinian fishing boats that were sailing 2 nautical miles offshore. The fishermen sailed back fearing of being arrested or wounded. However, neither casualties nor material damage were reported.

At approximately 17:40, an Israeli warplane fired a missile at a training site belonging to a Palestinian armed group, south of Deir al-Balah, in the southern Gaza Strip. As a result, the site sustained material damage, but no casualties were reported.

At approximately 17:50, an Israeli warplane fired a missile at a training site belonging to a Palestinian armed group, northeast of al-Nuseirat, in the central Gaza Strip. The site sustained material damage and Mohammed Bahjat Dalal (3) sustained glass shrapnel wounds to the left ear and right hand as he was standing with his father in front of a grocery. The child was taken to al-Aqsa Martyrs hospital in Deir al-Balah, where his wounds were described as moderate. He was discharged 2 hours later. In addition, 2 UNRWA schools and over 20 houses sustained partial damage due to the attack.

At approximately 17:55, an Israeli warplane fired a missile at a training site belonging to a Palestinian armed group, northwest of al-Nuseirat, in the central Gaza Strip. The site sustained material damage, but no casualties were reported.

At approximately 20:30, Israeli forces moved into Termis’ya village, north of Ramallah. They patrolled the streets and arrested 2 children: Suleiman Walid Abu Awwad (16) and Odai Ziada Monir Jbara (16).

Tuesday, 14 January 2014

At approximately 01:00, Israeli forces moved into Azzoun village, east of Qalqilia. They patrolled the streets and raided and searched a number of houses using sniffer dogs. They arrested 13 civilians and took them to an unknown destination:
1. Ahmed Hassan Salama Salim (20);
2. Mahmoud Hassan Salama Salim (19);
3. Mohammed Ahmed Othman Redwan (22);
4. Mahmoud Adam Ahmed Badwan (22);
5. Mohammed Rashid Redwan (23);
6. Zakariya Abdul Hadi Sweidan (22);
7. Isma’il Mofeed Redwan (19);
8. Qusai Walid Redwan (22);
9. Ahmed Yosri Salim (22);
10. Odai Hamza Hussein (24);
11. Abdul Aziz Shaher Salim (22);
12. Abdul Hamid Waddah Shbeita (19); and
13. Mo’athe Belal Sweidan (20).

Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into al-Fawwar refugee camp, south of Hebron. They patrolled the streets and stationed around the UNRWA schools. They raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Mo’ayed Abdul Jabar Ahmarwa (26). They arrested the aforementioned person and took him to an unknown destination.

At approximately 02:00, Israeli forces moved into Yatta town, south of Hebron. They patrolled the streets for some time and withdrew later. Neither house raids nor arrests were reported.

Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Beit Oula village, west of Hebron. They patrolled the streets and deployed between the houses and withdrew later. Neither house raids nor arrests were reported.

Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Tulkarm. They patrolled the streets and raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Jamil Ziad Jamil al-Jayousi (32), an employee in the electricity department in Tulkarm Municipality. They gave Jamil 2 minutes to get dressed and took him to a military vehicle, where he saw the Tulkarm commander known as (Captain Burkan). The commander questioned Jamil on how his sister Do’aa, who was an ex-prisoner in an Israeli jail and moved to live in the Gaza Strip as she got married to a Gazan man. 15 minutes later, the commander gave Jamil a summons to refer to refer to the Israeli intelligence service in the Israeli liaison officer, west of Tulkarm. Israeli forces withdrew later and no arrests were reported. It should be noted that the ex-prisoner Do’aa al-Jayousi was arrested on 07 June 2002 and was sentenced to 3 life sentences and 30 years of imprisonment. She was accused of driving one of those who carried out bombing attacks in Israel to Netanya city. Do’aa was released in Shalit’s prisoner swap deal.

At approximately 02:15, Israeli forces moved into al-Ebeidiya village, east of Bethlehem. They patrolled the streets and raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Ayman Mohammed Abdullah al-Assa (32). They arrested the aforementioned person and his brother Omar (18). They also confiscated a laptop and a cell phone.

At approximately 03:30, Israeli forces moved into Bethlehem. They patrolled the streets and raided and searched a number of houses. They arrested Eid Kamel Kamel (27) and Essam Atta al-Sha’er (25).

Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Beit Ainoun village, northeast of Hebron. They patrolled the streets for some time and withdrew later. Neither house raids nor arrests were reported.

At approximately 07:00, Israeli forces stationed along the border fence, northeast of al-Salqa valley, east of Deir al-Balah, in the central Gaza Strip, opened fire sporadically at farmlands for an hour, but no casualties were reported.

At approximately 07:45, Israeli forces moved about 150 meters into Boret Abu Samra, north of Beit Lahia village. They levelled lands along the border fence and opened fire sporadically. The farmers who were present in their lands were forced to flee fearing of being wounded. Israeli forces withdrew at approximately 14:00, and neither casualties nor material damage were reported.

At approximately 08:00, Israeli gunboats stationed off the northwest of Beit Lahia shore, in the northern Gaza Strip, opened fire at fishing boats that were sailing 3 nautical miles offshore. The fishermen were frightened and they sailed back fearing of being arrested or wounded. Neither material damage nor casualties were reported.

At approximately 12:00, Israeli forces moved into al-Aroub refugee camp, north of Hebron. They stationed at the entrance of the camp that is linked with bypass road (60). They deployed between the houses as well, where boys gathered and threw stones and empty bottles at Israeli soldiers, who fired sound bombs and tear gas canisters in response. A number of civilians suffered tear gas inhalation. Israeli forces withdrew later, but neither house raids nor arrests were reported.

Wednesday, 15 January 2014

At approximately 01:00, Israeli forces moved into Deir Samet village, west of Doura, southwest of Hebron. They patrolled the streets and raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Mahmoud Mohammed al-Hroub (29). They arrested the aforementioned person and took him to an unknown destination.

Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Abu al-Asja village, south of Doura, southwest of Hebron. They patrolled the streets and raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Ali Ibrahim al-Eqeili (27). They arrested the aforementioned person and took him to an unknown destination.

At approximately 02:00, Israeli forces moved into al-Fawar refugee camp, south of Hebron. They patrolled the streets and raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Belal Mostafa Abu Shama (22). They arrested the aforementioned person and in the meantime Israeli forces raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Sayyaf Kamal Abu T’eima (24). They arrested the aforementioned person and took the 2 arrested to an unknown destination.

Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into the centre of Yatta, south of Hebron. They patrolled the streets for some time and withdrew later. Neither house raids nor arrests were reported.

At approximately 02:30, Israeli forces moved into the centre of Doura, southwest of Hebron. They patrolled the streets for some time and withdrew later. Neither house raids nor arrests were reported.

At approximately 03:00, Israeli forces moved into Ethna village, west of Hebron. They patrolled the streets and raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Emad Aziz al-Batran (34). They arrested the aforementioned person and took him to an unknown destination.

At approximately 03:30, Israeli forces moved into Bani Na’im village, east of Hebron. The patrolled the streets for some time and withdrew later. Neither house raids nor arrests were reported.

At approximately 09:00, Israeli forces moved about 200 meters into the east of al-Faraheen neighbourhood in Abassan village, east of Khan Yunis, in the southern Gaza Strip. They levelled lands along the border fence and moved southwards to Khuza’a village. They withdrew a few hours later.

At approximately 09:30, Israeli gunboats stationed off the northwest of Beit Lahia, in the northern Gaza Strip, opened fire at fishing boats that were sailing one nautical mile offshore. The fishermen were frightened and they sailed back fearing of being wounded or arrested. Neither material damage nor casualties were reported.

At approximately 09:50, Israeli gunboats stationed off the northwest of Beit Lahia, in the northern Gaza Strip, opened fire at fishing boats that were sailing one nautical mile offshore. The fishermen were frightened and sailed back fearing of being wounded or arrested. Neither material damage nor casualties were reported.

At approximately 13:00, Israeli forces moved into Eissi neighbourhood, west of Hebron. They patrolled the streets and raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Osama Abdul Rahman al-Shweiki (33), a journalist at al-Yamama radio. They arrested the aforementioned person. In the meantime, Israeli forces raided and searched a house belonging to the family of his brother Azzam Abdul Rahim al-Shweiki (50). Israeli soldiers kept al-Shweiki in his store and then arrested him.

2. Use of excessive force against peaceful demonstrations protesting settlement activities and the construction of the annexation wall

During the reporting period, Israeli soldiers used excessive force against peaceful demonstrations organised by Palestinian civilians, international and Israeli human rights defenders in protest at the construction of the annexation wall and settlement activities in the West Bank. As a result, 10 protestors, including 2 children, a woman and an international activist, were wounded. Four of whom were wounded in Bil’in weekly protest, 2 were wounded in al-Nabi Saleh weekly protest, 1 was wounded in Ni’lin weekly protest, 3 were wounded in Qofur Qaddoum weekly protest and 1 was wounded in a protest at the northern entrance of Ayda refugee camp.

(PCHR keeps the names of the wounded).

Demonstrations against the construction of the annexation wall and settlement activity

Following the Friday Prayer, 10 January 2014, dozens of Palestinian civilians and international and Israeli human rights defenders organised a peaceful demonstration in Bil’in, west of Ramallah, in protest at the construction of the annexation wall and settlement activities, supporting the al-Aqsa mosque and the Islamic and Christian religious sites. Demonstrators took the streets raising the Palestinian flags and headed to the liberated territories near the annexation wall. Israeli forces had closed all the entrances of the village since morning to prevent the Palestinian and international activists and journalists from participating in the demonstration. Demonstrators marched adjacent to the cement wall and tried to cross the fence before Israeli forces that are stationed behind the wall, in the western area, and a large number of soldiers deployed along it fired live bullets, tear gas canisters, rubber-coated steel bullets, sound bombs and skunk water at them and chased them in olive fields. As a result, 4 protestors, including a woman and an international activist, were wounded. Moreover, dozens of demonstrators suffered tear gas inhalation, and others sustained bruises as they were beaten up by Israeli soldiers. A 33-year-old civilian sustained a bullet wound to the back; a 19-year-old civilian sustained a bullet wound to the right leg; a 23-year-old woman sustained a bullet wound to the left leg; and a 28-year-old international activist was hit by a gas canister to the left leg.

On the same day, dozens of Palestinian civilians organised a peaceful demonstration in the centre of Ni’lin village, west of Ramallah, in protest at the construction of the annexation wall and settlement activities. Demonstrators took the streets and headed to the annexation wall. Israeli forces closed the gates of the wall with barbwires and prevented the demonstrators from passing to the land behind it before they responded by throwing stones. As a result, a 39-year-old civilian sustained a bullet wound to the right leg. Many civilians suffered tear gas inhalation and bruises as they were beaten up by Israeli soldiers.

Around the same time, dozens of Palestinian civilians and Israeli and international human rights defenders organised a peaceful demonstration, in protest at the construction of the annexation wall and settlement activities, in Nabi Saleh village, southwest of Ramallah. Demonstrators took the streets raising the Palestinian flags and chanting slogans against the occupation and in support of the Palestinian unity resistance, and then they headed to the lands that the settlers are trying to rob by force near “Halmish” settlement. Israeli forces closed all the entrances of the village since morning to prevent the Palestinian and international activists and journalists from participating in the demonstration. When they arrived at the land, demonstrators were met by live bullets, tear gas canisters, rubber-coated steel bullets, sound bombs and skunk water and were chased into the village. As a result, a 14-year-old girl sustained a bullet wound to the right shoulder and an 18-year-old civilian sustained a bullet wound to the back. Many civilians suffered tear gas inhalation and bruises due to being beaten up by Israeli soldiers.

Following the Friday prayer, dozens of Palestinian civilians and international and Israeli human rights defenders organised a peaceful demonstration in Ma’assara village, in protest at the construction of the annexation wall and settlement activities. The demonstration started in front of the Candles Cultural Centre in the centre of the village. Demonstrators moved in the streets raising the Palestinian flag. When they arrived at the area where the annexation wall is established, Israeli forces started firing tear gas canisters in attempt to disperse them and prevented them reaching the annexation wall.

At approximately 12:30 on the same day, Palestinian civilians and international activists organised a peaceful demonstration in the centre of Kufor Qaddoum village, northwest of Qalqilia, and headed towards the eastern entrance of the village, in protest at the continued closure of the entrance with an iron gate, since the beginning of the Aqsa Intifada. Clashes erupted between the demonstrators and Israeli forces that fired sound bombs and tear gas canisters to prevent them from reaching the aforementioned gate. As a result, 3 civilians, including a child, were wounded. A 27-year-old civilian was hit by a gas canister to the leg, a 43-year-old civilian was hit by a tear gas canister to the lower back and a 17-year-old civilian was hit by a tear gas canister to the back.

At approximately 12:35 on Sunday, 12 January 2014, dozens of Palestinian children and young men gathered at the northern entrance of Ayda refugee camp, north of Bethlehem. They threw stones and empty bottles at Israeli soldiers who were positioned at the northern entrance of the camp. The Israeli soldiers fired gas canisters and rubber-coated metal bullets in response. As a result, a number of protestors and civilians suffered tear gas inhalation.

At approximately 16:00 on Wednesday, 15 January 2014, dozens of Palestinian boys and civilians gathered at the northern entrance of Ayda refugee camp, north of Bethlehem. They threw stones and empty bottles at Israeli soldiers who were positioned at the northern entrance of the camp. The Israeli soldiers fired gas canisters and rubber-coated metal bullets in response. As a result, a 19-year-old civilian sustained a bullet wound to the left leg. He was taken to Beit Jala hospital, where his wound was described as moderate. In addition, a number of protestors suffered tear gas inhalation.

3. Continued closure of the oPt

Israel has continued to impose a tightened closure on the oPt, imposing severe restrictions on the movement of Palestinian civilians in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, including occupied East Jerusalem.

Gaza Strip

Israeli forces continuously tightens the closure of the Gaza Strip and closes all commercial crossings , making the Karm Abu Salem crossing the sole commercial crossing of the Gaza Strip, although it is not suitable for commercial purposes in terms of its operational capacity and distance from markets.

Israeli forces have continued to apply the policy, which is aimed to tighten the closure on all commercial crossings, by imposing total control over the flow of imports and exports.

The total closure of al-Mentar ("Karni") crossing since 02 March 2011 has seriously affected the economy of the Gaza Strip. Following this closure, all economic and commercial establishments in the Gaza Commercial Zone were shut off. It should be noted that al-Mentar crossing is the biggest crossing in the Gaza Strip, in terms of its capacity to absorb the flow of imports and exports. The decision to close al-Mentar crossing was the culmination of a series of decisions resulting in the complete closure of the Sofa crossing, east of the Gaza Strip in the beginning of 2009, and the Nahal Oz crossing, east of Gaza City, which was dedicated for the delivery of fuel and cooking gas to the Gaza Strip, in the beginning of 2010.

Israeli forces have continued to impose a total ban on the delivery of raw materials to the Gaza Strip, except for very limited items and quantities. The limited quantities of raw materials allowed into Gaza do not meet the minimal needs of the civilian population of the Gaza Strip.

The cooking gas crisis has ranged between the ebb and flow for 9 months due to the closure of Karm Abu Salem for security claims. According to PCHR’s follow-up, Israeli authorities only allow an average of 98 tonnes of cooking gas into Gaza per day. This limited quantity is less than half of the daily needs, which is 200 tonnes per day, of the civilian population in the Gaza Strip during winter. The crisis has unprecedentedly aggravated for around six weeks due to cold weather and overconsumption in addition to the power outage and using gas as an alternative in many uses of electricity. The lack of diesel and benzene led to the aggravation of the crisis as a result of using the gas cylinder for cars or as an alternative for benzene to run generators. As a result, the demand on gas increased despite lack of it.

For almost 6 consecutive years, Israeli forces have continued to prevent the delivery of construction materials to the Gaza Strip. Two years ago, Israeli forces approved the delivery of limited quantities of construction materials for a number of international organizations in the Gaza Strip. On 17 September 2013, they allowed the entry of limited quantities of construction materials for the private sector. However, on 13 October 2013, they re-banned it claiming that these materials are used for constructing tunnels. Last week, Israeli forces allowed the entry of construction materials only for the UNRWA and UNDP projects. As a result, construction works have completely stopped leaving negative impact on manpower and all sectors that are directly related with construction works leading to the increase of unemployment levels.

Israeli forces also continued to impose almost total ban on the Gaza Strip exports, including agricultural and industrial products, except for light-weighted products such as flowers, strawberries, and spices.

Israel has continued to close the Beit Hanoun (“Erez”) crossing for the majority of Palestinian citizens from the Gaza Strip. Israel only allows the movement of a limited number of groups, with many hours of waiting in the majority of cases. Israel has continued to adopt a policy aimed at reducing the number of Palestinian patients allowed to move via the Beit Hanoun crossing to receive medical treatment in hospitals in Israel or in the West Bank and East Jerusalem. Israel denied permission to access hospitals via the crossing for new categories of patients from the Gaza Strip.

The Egyptian authorities allow the population of the Gaza Strip to travel via Rafah International crossing, which connects the Gaza Strip with the outside world. Only limited and specified categories are allowed, including patients, students, persons that hold residencies in Egypt or abroad, men over 40 years, females in all ages, children under 18, persons who hold Arab and foreign nationalities, and members of Arab and international humanitarian delegations. It should be mentioned that the crossing opens seven days a week. Nowadays, the crossing is overcrowded due to the prolonged procedures from the Egyptian side, particularly after closing it for several days over the past weeks due to Egypt’s security conditions, which has affected the travellers’ movement in both directions.

Israel has imposed a tightened closure on the West Bank. During the reporting period, Israeli forces imposed additional restrictions on the movement of Palestinian civilians:

· Ramallah: Israeli forces have continued to impose severe restrictions on the movement of Palestinian civilians. At approximately 09:30 on Friday, 10 January 2014, Israeli forces re-established a checkpoint at the entrance of al-Nabi Saleh village, northwest of Ramallah. They prevented people from leaving or entering through the aforementioned checkpoint. Israeli forces later withdrew, and no arrests were reported.

At approximately 09:00 on Saturday, 11 January 2014, Israeli forces re-established their presence at Atara checkpoint at the northern entrance of Ber Zeit village, north of Ramallah. The checkpoint was later removed, and no arrests were reported.

At approximately 05:30 on Sunday, 12 January 2014, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the entrance of Beit Laqia village, southwest of Ramallah. The checkpoint was later removed, and no arrests were reported.

At approximately 10:00 on Monday, 13 January 2014, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the entrance of Beit Our al-Tahta village, southwest of Ramallah. The checkpoint was later removed, and no arrests were reported. At approximately 05:30, Israeli forces established a checkpoint under the Kharbatha al-Mesbah village, southwest of Ramallah. The checkpoints were later removed, and no arrests were reported.

· Hebron: Israeli forces have continued to impose severe restrictions on the movement of Palestinian civilians. At approximately 07:30 on Thursday, 09 January 2014, Israeli forces established two checkpoints at the entrance of Al Fawar refugee camp, south of Hebron, and at the north entrance of Hebron. At approximately 07:30, they established a checkpoint at the southern entrance of Halhoul ’Joret Bohlos village, north of Hebron. All checkpoints were later removed, and no arrests were reported.

At approximately 07:30, 10 January 2014, Israeli forces established two checkpoints at the intersection between al-Sammou’ village and Yata town, south of Hebron, and on the road of Wad Abu Resha , west of Ethzna village, west of Hebron . At approximately 08:00, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at intersection between Ethna city and Deir Samet village, southwest of Dura, southwest of Hebron. At approximately 03:00, another checkpoint was established at the northern entrance of Yata town, south of Hebron. All checkpoints were later removed, and no arrests were reported.

At approximately 03:00 on Sunday 12 January 2014, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the entrance of Beit Ummar village, north of Hebron, and closed the entrance by an iron gate, and closed the sub gates by retractable tyre spikes. At the same time, the Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the northern entrance of Yata town, which is linked to bypass road (60) Zaif road, south of the city. All checkpoints were later removed, and no arrests were reported.

At approximately 08:00 on Monday 13 January 2014, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the entrance of Sa’ir village , east of Hebron. At approximately 03:00, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the southern entrance of Halhoul Bridge area, north of Hebron. At approximately 06:00, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the northern entrance of Hebron. All checkpoints were later removed, and no arrests were reported.

At approximately 07:00 on Tuesday 14 January 2014, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the entrance of al-Shyouck village, east of Hebron. Around the same time, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the eastern entrance of Hebron. All checkpoints were later removed, and no arrests were reported.

At approximately 07:00 on Wednesday 15 January 2014, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the entrance of al-Fawar refugee camp, south of Hebron. At approximately 09:00, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the southern entrance of Hebron. All checkpoints were later removed, and no arrests were reported.

· Qalqilya: Israeli forces have continued to impose severe restrictions on the movement of Palestinian civilians. At approximately 01:45 on Saturday, 11 January 2014, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the intersection of al-Nabi Ilias village, at the main street of Qalqilya - Nablus. At approximately 03:10, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the intersection of Jeit village, northeast of Qalqilya. At approximately 10:00, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the entrance of Azoun village, east of the city. Israeli forces arrested Shaher Ali El Rai, from Qalqilya, but released him at approximately 11:00.

Arrests and Maltreatment at military checkpoints

· At approximately 09:00 on Sunday, 12 January 2014, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the entrance of Beit Ummar village, tightened restrictions against Palestinian civilians and obstructed their movement through the checkpoint. While ‘Ihab Mohammed Abu Fanus (18) ‘Fadi Mohammed Abu Fanus (17) were passing via the checkpoint, Israeli forces arrested them and took them to an unknown destination.

4. Settlement activities and attacks by settlers against Palestinian civilians and property

Attacks carried out by Israeli forces

· At approximately 13:00 on Thursday, 09 January 2014, Israeli forces backed with military vehicles, moved into Um Sararah area adjacent to Kherbet al-Fakhit (al-Mosafer area), southeast of Yatta town, south of Hebron. Israeli forces patrolled the vicinity of the area and deployed on the farmlands. They prevented the movement of civilians and declared it a closed military zone. Israeli soldiers confiscated barbwires and uprooted a large number of woodland trees, which were less than 1 year old and were planted to establish a nature reserve on a 1000-dunum land donated by the Mehmed family to the Ministry of Agriculture. The project was funded by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).

It should be noted that civilians worked on establishing a natural reserve in 2010 through applying to the Department of Agriculture in Hebron. After submitting the necessary documents, it was approved to establish a nature reserve funded by the FAO. The project included building a fence around the lands and 8 rainwater collection wells, repairing other old wells in the reserve, and planting trees. On 27 August 2013, Israeli authorities started reprisals through issuing notices concerning the water wells under the pretext of not obtaining a construction permit in zones classified as C areas according to the Oslo Accords and denied civilians access to them.

Regarding the nature reserve, it is a tract of land; parts of which are mountainous and parts are plain, in al-Fakhit area. The plan was to plant the mountainous land with woodland trees, maintain them for 5 years, plant the plain lands with winter crops, and prevent livestock from entering the lands during this period. The water wells were supposed to be filled with water in winter in order to use its water to irrigate trees and crops planted in the reserve. The capacity of wells ranges between 80 cubic meters to 250 cubic meters, and a typical farm was supposed to be established in the reserve.

· At approximately 10:00 on Sunday, 12 January 2014, Israeli forces accompanied by officers from the organization department in the Civil Administration and police officers confiscated a green John Deere tractor belonging to Mustafa ‘Aqab Ban ‘Odah when he was working in a farmland in al-Ra’s al-Ahmar arean north of the Jordan Valley, east of Tubas. They kept his ID card and confiscated his tractor without delivering him a seizure warrant for the tractor.

Attacks carried out by settlers

· On Monday morning, 13 January 2014, Israel settlers from “Ma’oon” settlement established on Palestinians lands, east of Yatta town, south of Hebron, cut and smashed branches of 20 old olive trees by handsaws in Mo’in Valley area in the east of the town belonging to Khader Mos’ef al-‘Amour and his brothers from al-Tawani village, east of the city. It should be mentioned that on 17 November 2013, settlers destroyed and uprooted around 100 olive trees in the same area belonging to al-‘Amour family, who filed a complaint to the Israeli police about what happened at that time, but to no avail.

· At approximately 10:00 on Tuesday, 14 January 2014, around 300 settlers from “Karyat Arbaa’” settlement and “Hafat Jal” outpost established on confiscated Palestinian lands, east of Hebron, organized a demonstration in Khelet ‘Abdoh area in the eastern area of the city. The demonstration was organized under an intensive guard of the Israeli forces and police. They entered farmlands belonging to the al-Zaro and Abu Rmeilah families and damaged stone chains. They planted a number of olive trees in the lands confiscated by the Israeli forces since 1972 under the claim that they are military training areas, where their owners are denied access to them. This comes in an attempt by settlers to seize this land for the benefit of settlement expansion projects in “Hafat Jal” outpost.

It should be mentioned that “Hafat Jal” outpost was established in 2005 after Israeli soldiers cleaved a 1-Kilometre dirt road from “Keryat Arba” settlement to a foot of a mountain, on lands belonging to the al-Zaro and al-Tamini families. Israeli soldiers placed a barbwire fence along the road and about 6 mobile houses on the top of the mountain, dug a well and built another house of concrete on a land belonging to the Idris family. “Havat Gal” outpost controls about 300 dunums of the agricultural lands, while buildings are established on an area of 6 dunums. The rightful owners of the lands are always prevented from entering them, and Israeli settlers attack them when they try to reach their lands in the vicinity of the above-mentioned outpost. In addition, they cut trees in the area.

· At approximately 03:30 on Wednesday, 15 January 2014, a group of settlers set fire to Imam Ali bin Abi Talib Mosque in Deiristiya village, north of Salfit, and wrote hostile slogans on its wall in Hebrew. Settlers set on fire in the vicinity of the mosque, so carpets at the entrance were burnt and continued burning till fire extended into the mosque burning a part of it. Ayoub Abu Hajlah, Mayor of Deiristiya village, said to a PCHR fieldworker that at approximately 03:30 after Israeli forces closed the village and civilians early went back home, settlers infiltrated to Imam Ali bin Abi Talib Mosque at the western entrance of the village, burnt the mosque, and wrote hostile slogans such as “blood revenge group” signed with “Qasra” on the mosque walls. He added that a worshiper goes to the mosque everyday 1 hour before the dawn Adhan (the Islamic call to worship), so he prevented the mosque from being all burnt. He told the village residents about what happened, and they immediately extinguished fire with simple tools.

Recommendations to the International Community

PCHR emphasizes the international community’s position that the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, which is still under the Israeli occupation, in spite of the Israeli military redeployment outside the Gaza Strip in 2005. PCHR further confirms that Israeli force have continued to impose collective punishment measures on the Gaza Strip, which have escalated since the 2006 Palestinian parliamentary elections, in which Hamas won the majority of seats of the Palestinian Legislative Council. PCHR stresses that there is an international recognition of Israel’s obligation to respect international human rights instruments and the international humanitarian law, especially the Hague Regulations concerning the Laws and Customs of War on Land and the Geneva Conventions. Israel is bound to apply the international human rights law and the law of war sometime reciprocally and other times in parallel in a way that achieves the best protection for civilians and remedy for victims.

In light of continued arbitrary measures, land confiscation and settlement activities in the West Bank, and the continued aggression against civilians in the Gaza Strip, especially the latest offensive that lasted for 8 days in November, PCHR calls upon the international community, especially the United Nations, the High Contracting Parties to the Geneva Convention and the European Union – in the context of their natural obligation to respect and enforce the international law – to cooperate and act according to the following recommendations:

1. PCHR calls upon the international community and the United Nations to use all available means to allow the Palestinian people to enjoy their right to self-determination, through the establishment of the Palestinian State, which was recognized by the UN General Assembly with a vast majority, using all international legal mechanisms, including sanctions to end the occupation of the State of Palestine;
2. PCHR calls upon the United Nations to provide international protection to Palestinians in the oPt, and to ensure the non-recurrence of aggression against the oPt, especially the Gaza Strip;
3. PCHR calls upon the High Contracting Parties to the Geneva Conventions to compel Israel, as a High Contracting Party to the Conventions, to apply the Conventions in the oPt;
4. PCHR calls upon the Parties to international human rights instruments, especially the Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, to pressurize Israel to comply with their provisions in the oPt, and to compel it to incorporate the human rights situation in the oPt in its reports submitted to the concerned committees;
5. PCHR calls upon the High Contracting Parties to the Geneva Conventions to fulfil their obligation to ensure the application of the Conventions, including extending the scope of their jurisdiction in order to prosecute suspected war criminals, regardless of the nationality of the perpetrator and the place of a crime, to pave the way for prosecuting suspected Israeli war criminals and end the longstanding impunity they have enjoyed;
6. PCHR calls on States that apply the principle of universal jurisdiction not to surrender to Israeli pressure to limit universal jurisdiction to perpetuate the impunity enjoyed by suspected Israeli war criminals;
7. PCHR calls upon the international community to act in order to stop all Israeli settlement expansion activities in the oPt through imposing sanctions on Israeli settlements and criminalizing trading with them;
8. PCHR calls upon the UN General Assembly to transfer the Goldstone Report to the UN Security Council in order to refer it to the International Criminal Court in accordance with Article 13(b) of the Rome Statute;
9. PCHR calls upon the United Nations to confirm that holding war criminals in the Palestinian-Israeli conflict is a precondition to achieve stability and peace in the regions, and that peace cannot be built on the expense of human rights and victims;
10. PCHR calls upon the UN General Assembly and Human Rights Council to explicitly declare that the Israeli closure policy in Gaza and the annexation wall in the West Bank are illegal, and accordingly refer the two issues to the UN Security Council to impose sanctions on Israel to compel it to remove them;
11. PCHR calls upon the international community, in light of its failure to the stop the aggression on the Palestinian people, to at least fulfil its obligation to reconstruct the Gaza Strip after the series of hostilities launched by Israel which directed targeted the civilian infrastructure;
12. PCHR calls upon the United Nations and the European Union to express a clear position towards the annexation wall following the international recognition of the State of Palestine on the 1967 borders, as the annexation wall seizes large parts of the State of Palestine;
13. PCHR calls upon the European Union to activate Article 2 of the EU-Israel Association Agreement, which provides that both sides must respect human rights as a precondition for economic cooperation between the EU states and Israel, and the EU must not ignore Israeli violation and crimes against Palestinian civilians;
14. PCHR calls upon the Palestinian leadership to sign and accede to the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court and the Geneva Conventions, and calls upon the international community, especially the United Nations, to encourage the State of Palestine to accede to international human rights law and humanitarian law instruments.

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Public Document