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Source: PCHR - Palestinian Center for Human Rights
Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (22 - 28 May 2014)
Vendredi, 30 mai - 7h58 AM AM
Friday 30 May 2014
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Salfit- Israeli forces confiscate lands in Kafr al-Deek village- Reuters
Israeli forces continue systematic attacks against Palestinian civilians and property in the occupied Palestinian territory (oPt)
Israeli forces continued to open fire in the border areas of the Gaza Strip.
4 Palestinian civilians, including a child, and a member of an armed group were wounded in the northern and central Gaza Strip.
A Palestinian boy was seriously wounded and arrested in the northwest of Ramallah.
Israeli forces continued to use excessive force against peaceful protesters in the West Bank.
3 protesters were wounded in a demonstration organized in solidarity with the Palestinian administrative detainees in the vicinity of ‘Ofer Prison.
Israeli forces conducted 65 incursions into Palestinian communities in the West Bank and a limited one in the southern Gaza Strip.
46 Palestinian civilians, including 10 children and a woman, were arrested.
Israel 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 5 Palestinian civilians, four of whom were released later, were arrested at military checkpoints in the West Bank.
At least 5 Palestinian civilians were arrested along the border between Israel and the Gaza Strip.
Israeli navy forces continued targeting Palestinian fishermen in the sea.
Three fishermen were arrested off Rafah shore, in the southern Gaza Strip.
Israeli forces continued to support settlement activities in the West Bank and Israeli settlers continued to attack Palestinian civilians and property.
80 dunums of land were levelled in Kafr al-Deek village, west of Salfit
Settlers set fire to wheat crops in the northern and southern West Bank.
30 olive and almond trees were uprooted in Qaryout lands, southeast of Nablus.
Summary
Israeli violations of international law and international humanitarian law in the oPt continued during the reporting period (22 – 28 May 2014).
Shooting:
During the reporting period, Israeli forces wounded 8 Palestinians, including 7 civilians and a child. Four of the aforementioned Palestinians were wounded in the West Bank, and the other four ones were wounded in the Gaza strip. Israeli naval forces fired at and chased Palestinian fishing boats in the Gaza Strip Sea.
In the Gaza Strip, on 23 May 2014, Mohammed ‘Abdel Men’em Ahmed Abu Shehadah (16) from al-Msadar village was wounded by a bullet to the right shoulder causing him paraplegia when Israeli forces stationed along the border, east of Deir al-Balah, opened fire at 3 brothers, who were collecting straws in an agricultural area around 350 meters away from the border.
On the same day, a member of an Palestinian armed group was wounded by a bullet to the right thigh when Israeli forces stationed along the border between the Gaza Strip and Israel, north of al-Sifah area in the northwest of Beit Lahia in the northern Gaza Strip, opened fire at a group of a number of armed Palestinians who were present near the border.
On the same day, Israeli forces stationed along the border, east of Jabalia in the northern Gaza strip, opened fire and fired tear gas canisters at a group of young men who were near the border in attempt to throw stones at the Israeli soldiers. No injuries were reported.
Also on the same day, Israeli forces stationed on the watchtowers at Beit Hanoun Crossing (Erez) and in its vicinity, northwest of Beit Hanoun in the northern Gaza Strip, opened fire at a group of workers who were collecting raw materials in the destroyed industrial zone to the west of the crossing near the border. No injuries were reported.
On 25 May 2014, Israeli forces stationed on the watchtowers along the northern border, northwest of Beit Hanoun in the northern Gaza Strip, opened fire at a group of workers who were collecting raw materials near the border fence in the destroyed industrial zone near Beit Hanoun “Erez” Crossing. As a result, a Palestinian civilian was wounded by a bullet to the left leg.
On 26 May 2014, ‘Emad Shokri Salem (52) from Beit Lahia Housing Project was wounded by two bullets to the back and right hand when Israeli forces stationed along the border, northwest of Beit Lahia in the northern Gaza Strip, opened fire at a group of Palestinian civilians who were along the Beit Lahia shore around 300 meters away from the northern borders.
In the context of targeting Palestinian fishermen in the sea, on 24 May 2014, Israeli gunboats stationed off al-Waha Shore, northwest of Beit Lahia in the northern Gaza Strip, opened fire in the vicinity of the Palestinian fishing boats sailing 3 nautical miles offshore. No injuries were reported, but fishermen lost 4 nets which are 250 meters long.
On 27 May 2014, Israeli naval forces arrested 3 Palestinian fishermen while sailing 3 nautical miles off Rafah shore in the southern Gaza Strip.
In the West Bank, on 23 May 2014, Israeli forces wounded 3 Palestinian civilians who were participating in a demonstration organized in the vicinity of ‘Ofer Prison, southwest of Ramallah, in solidarity with the Palestinian administrative detainees who have been on hunger strike in the Israeli jails. The first civilian (19) sustained a bullet wound to the right leg, the second one (24) was hit by a tear gas canister to his chest, and the third one (23) sustained a rubber-coated metal bullet wound to his forehead.
On 24 May 2014, Israeli forces stationed on watchtowers established along the fence surrounding “Beit Eil” settlement, north of Ramallah, opened fire at a group of boys in the agricultural lands near al-Jalzone UNRWA School for Boys to the west of the aforementioned settlement. As a result, Mohammed ‘Ali Hasan Safi (‘Eishawi) (18) from the refugee camp was wounded by 3 bullets to the left and right legs. He was arrested and taken to Hadasa ‘Ein Karem Hospital in Jerusalem, where his wounds were described as critical.
In the same context, Israeli forces used excessive force against peaceful protests 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, dozens of protestors suffered tear gas inhalation, and others sustained bruises as they were beaten up by Israeli soldiers.
Incursions:
During the reporting period, Israeli forces conducted at least 65 military incursions into Palestinian communities in the West Bank. During these incursions, Israeli forces arrested at least 46 Palestinians, including 10 children and a woman.
On 22 May 2014, Israeli forces moved 200 meters into the east of Khaza’ah village, east of Khan Younis in the southern Gaza strip. They levelled lands along the border fence and then redeployed along the border fence.
Restrictions on movement:
Israel continued to impose a tight 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 been 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 grave violations of the economic, social and cultural rights and a deterioration of living conditions for 1.7 million people. The Israeli authorities have 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. 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 5 Palestinian civilians at military checkpoints in the West Bank, and another 5 civilians along the border between the Gaza Strip and Israel.
Settlement activities
Israel has continued its settlement activities in the oPt, in 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 22 May 2014, Israeli forces accompanied by a group of settlers moved into Thaher al-Soboh area, north of Kafr al-Deek village, west of Salfit. They surveyed tracts of lands in the area till at approximately 15:00. At approximately 09:00 on Sunday, 25 May 2014, Israeli forces backed by bulldozers moved into the area again and leveled tracts of lands in it. The lands threatened with leveling are located adjacent to “Brokhin” and “’Ali Zihav” settlements.
Attacks carried out by settlers
On 23 May 2014, settlers from “Mitsibi Ya’ir” settlement established on Palestinian lands, east of Yatta, south of Hebron, set fire to peals of wheat crops on a land belonging to Khaled Mousa al-Najjar (60), from Qawawis village, east of the city.
On the same day, four settlers from “Kokhaf Hashaher” settlement established on the lands of Deir Jarir village, northeast of Ramallah, attacked two civilians who were on the road between Mekhmas and al-Tibah villages, northeast of the city. During their attack, the settlers used plastic sticks, clubs and a knife causing injuries and bruises to them.
On 26 May 2014, settlers from “Hayofal” outpost established on the Palestinian lands, west of Qaryout village, southeast of Nablus, cut down 30 almond and olive trees from the aforementioned village lands. The attack was backed by the settlement guard, who claimed that the trees were cut for security reasons.
On 27 May 2014, when Fawzi Ibrahim ‘Abed Haj Mohammed arrived at his land in Khelet Abu Shabraqah area, southeast of Jaloud village, southeast of Nablus, he was surprised that settlers entered their sheep into the land and damaged the wheat crops, i.e. 45 dunums, causing a loss of around 45,000 NIS.
Israeli Violations Documented during the Reporting Period (22 - 28 May 2014)
1. Incursions into Palestinian Areas, and Attacks on Palestinian Civilians and Property in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip
Thursday, 22 May 2014
At approximately 12:30, Israeli forces backed moved into Barqah village, northwest of Nablus. They raided and searched a number of houses. They then handed the family of Ma’en Haris Haji (15) a notice to refer the Israeli Intelligence in “Hawarah” Camp, southeast of the city.
Around the same time, Israeli forces moved 200 meters into the east of Khaza’ah village, east of Khan Younis in the southern Gaza strip. They levelled lands along the border fence and then redeployed along the border fence. During the incursion, which lasted for a couple of hours, Israeli forces opened fire indiscriminately. However, no injuries were reported.
At approximately 01:00, Israeli forces moved into al-Marj quarter in Bir Zeit village, north of Ramallah. They raided and searched an apartment belonging to Dr. Majdi Mohammed Najib Mafarjah (33). They arrested Dr. Mafarjah and took him to the Russian Compound, a detention centre, in Jerusalem. It should be mentioned that the aforementioned is a lecturer at the Information Technology (IT) Faculty in Bir Zeit University.
Around the same time, Israeli forces backed by military vehicles moved into al-Jaftalak village, north of Jericho. They patrolled the streets for some time and withdrew later. No arrests were reported.
At approximately 01:30, Israeli forces moved into a number of neighbourhoods in the centre of Dura in the southwest of Hebron. They patrolled the streets for some time and then stationed in Haninah area. They raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Mohammed Shaher al-Namourah (17). They arrested the aforementioned person and withdrew later taking him to an unknown destination.
Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Marj Na’ajah village, north of Jericho. They patrolled the streets for some time and withdrew later. No arrests were reported.
At approximately 02:00, Israeli forces moved into al-‘Arroub refugee camp, north 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 Deir Nizam village, northwest of Ramallah. They patrolled the streets and then stationed at the village’s entrance. They deployed between houses. They then raided and searched a number of houses, from which they arrested 3 civilians, including 2 children, and took them to “’Ofer” Prison, southwest of the city. The detainees were identified as:
1. Majdi Yousif Hussein Tamimi(21);
2. Nour Taysir Thiab al-A’araj (16); and
3. Ja’afar Laith ‘Abdel Ghafer Soufi.
At approximately 03:00, Israeli forces backed by military vehicles and an infantry force moved into al-Nabi Saleh, northwest of Ramallah. They raided and searched a house belonging to the family of ‘Oday ‘Abdel Raziq Tamimi (21). They arrested the aforementioned person and took him to an unknown destination.
Around the same time, Israeli forces backed by military vehicles moved into ‘Aydah refugee camp, northwest of Bethlehem. They patrolled the streets and then stationed at the western entrance of the village. They raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Ramzi Mohammed al-‘Atiq (23). They arrested the aforementioned and withdrew later taking him to an unknown destination.
At approximately 16:00, Israeli forces backed by military vehicles moved into al-‘Aqbah area, south of Dura, southwest of Hebron. They patrolled the streets and stationed in ‘Ayoun Abu Seif area. A number of Palestinian young men gathered and threw stones at the Israeli vehicles. The Israeli soldiers then chased them into the agricultural lands and fire tear gas canisters and sound bombs at them and the houses in the area. As a result, a number of civilians suffered tear gas inhalation. Meanwhile, the Israeli soldiers established a checkpoint on the road between Dura and its southern villages. The checkpoint was removed later, and no arrests were reported.
At approximately 20:10, Israeli forces backed by military vehicles moved into Kafr al-Dik village, west of Salfit. They patrolled the streets and then raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Wafi Fayez ‘Odah al-Dik (29). They arrested him and withdrew later taking him to an unknown destination.
At approximately 21:00, Israeli forces backed by 3 military vehicles moved into al-Tabaqah village, southwest of Dura, 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 backed by military vehicles moved into Kharsa village, south of Dura, southwest of Hebron. They patrolled the streets for some time and withdrew later. Neither house raids nor arrests were reported.
Friday, 23 May 2014
At approximately 01:00, Israeli forces backed by military vehicles moved into Bitounia village, west of Ramallah. They patrolled the streets for some time and withdrew later. Neither house raids nor arrests were reported.
At approximately 02:00, Israeli forces backed by military vehicles moved into Ezna village, west of Hebron. They patrolled the streets for some time and then stationed in ‘Aziz Valley area, west of the village. They raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Dawoud Yousif al-Tmeizi (28). They arrested him and withdrew later taking him to an unknown destination.
Around the same time, Israeli forces backed by heavy military vehicles moved into Hawwarah village, southeast of Nablus. They patrolled the streets and through microphones declared a curfew. They then raided and searched a number of houses. They withdrew later, and no arrests were reported.
At approximately 02:10, Israeli forces backed by military vehicles moved into Deir Istayyah village, north of Salfit. They patrolled the streets and fired sound bombs in the vicinity of the village. At approximately 21:00, they withdrew, and neither house raids nor arrests were reported.
At approximately 02:20, Israeli forces backed by military vehicles moved into Kufor Qaddoum village, northeast of Qalqilya. They raided and searched a number of houses, from which they arrested Riyad ‘Abdel Rahim Ishteiwi (35) and Fadi Bassim Hasan Jom’aah (22) and took them to an unknown destination. In addition, they handed Sabri ‘Ata Ishteiwi (47) to refer to the Israeli Intelligence.
At approximately 13:00, Israeli forces backed by military vehicles moved into Kafr ‘Ein village, northwest of Ramallah. They patrolled the streets for some time and withdrew later. Neither house raids nor arrests were reported.
Around the same time, Israeli forces backed by military vehicles moved into ‘Azoun village, east of Qalqilya. They raided and searched automobile repair workshops. At approximately 14:00, they withdrew, and no arrests were reported.
At approximately 14:00, Israeli forces stationed along the border fence, east of al-Shuhada’ cemetery, east of Jabalia, in the northern Gaza Strip, fired live ammunition and tear gas canisters at a group of youngsters, who were present near the said fence throwing stones at the Israeli soldiers. Sporadic fire was opened until 18:00, but neither casualties nor damages were reported.
Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Bab al-Zawiyah area in the centre of Hebron. They deployed between the shops resulting in fear among civilians who were there. A number of boys gathered and threw stones and empty bottles at Israeli soldiers who fired rubber-coated metal bullets and tear gas canisters in response. As a result, a number of civilians suffered tear gas inhalation.
At approximately 14:15, Israeli forces stationed along the border fence, east of Deir al-Balah, opened fire at 3 brothers, who were collecting straws in an agricultural area belonging to Mohammed Abu Matwi, around 350 meters away from the aforementioned fence. The brothers were identified as: Mohammed ‘Abdel Men’em Ahmed Abu Shehadah (16); Bashar (14); and Jaber (5), from al-Msadar village. As a result, Mohammed was wounded by a bullet to the right shoulder. When his uncle, Hasan Abu Shehadah, tried to save him for around half an hour, the Israeli soldiers fired live ammunition and artillery shells at him. The uncle then called an ambulance from the Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS) as it arrived and transferred the wounded to al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in Deir al-Balah. Due to his serious injury, he was transferred to Shifa Hospital in Gaza City. The bullet caused Mohammed paraplegia.
The child’s uncle, Hasan Jaber ‘Abdallah Abu Shehadah (37), said to a PCHR fieldworker that:
“At approximately 14:20 on Friday, 23 May 2014, my brother, Mahran (29), called me to tell me that my niece, Mohammed ‘Abdel Men’em Abu Shehadah (16) was wounded to the east of Deir al-Balah in an agricultural land belonging to Mohammed Ibrahim Abu Matwi, which is around 350 meters away from the border fence. When I arrived at the area, I grovelled as there is an Israeli site next to the land. I started crawling till I reached my nephew. When I approached him, I saw him and his two brothers; Bashar (14) and Jaber (5), lying on the ground. I managed to pull them and leave the area. I approached Mohammed around 2 meters when an Israeli tank stationed on a hill along the border fence fired shells and the Israeli soldiers fired live bullets at me and the area. This took around 30 minutes. I shouted at my nephew ordering him not to move. I then called a PRCS ambulance which arrived at the area and took him to al-Aqsa Martyrs hospital. At approximately 16:10, he arrived at the area and then was transferred to Shifa Hospital in Gaza due to his serious condition. He was wounded by a bullet to the right shoulder. At Shifa Hospital, they took the bullet out from the left side of his shoulder and his condition was described as serious. Medical sources there said that he suffers paraplegia and we are waiting for his transferral to the Israeli hospitals.”
At approximately 16:00, Israeli forces stationed on the watchtowers at Beit Hanoun Crossing (Erez) and in its vicinity, northwest of Beit Hanoun in the northern Gaza Strip, opened fire at a group of workers who were collecting raw materials in the destroyed industrial zone to the west of the crossing near the border. Although no injuries were reported, the workers were forced to flee from the area for fear of being injured.
At approximately 19:00, Israeli forces stationed along the border fence, north of al-Sifah area, northwest of Beit Lahia in the northern Gaza Strip, opened fire at a group of armed Palestinians. As a result, one of them was wounded by a bullet to the right thigh. He was taken to Martyr Kamal ‘Edwan Hospital in Beit Lahia, where his leg was x-rayed. It was found out that he sustained fractures in the thigh bones. It should be mentioned that the group was near the aforementioned fence and is affiliated with Izziddin al-Qassam Brigades (the armed wing of Hamas).
At approximately 23:30, Israeli forces backed by military vehicles moved into Beit ‘Aor al-Tahta village, west of Ramallah. They patrolled the streets and withdrew later. No arrests were reported.
Saturday, 24 May 2014
At approximately 01:00, Israeli forces backed by military vehicles moved into Tubas. They patrolled the streets and then raided and searched a number of houses, from which they arrested ‘Otbah Faleh Daraghmah (27) and Jawdat Mesbah Jawdat al-Masri (35).
Around the same time, Israeli forces backed by military vehicles moved into Qalqilya. They patrolled the streets for some time and withdrew later. Neither house raids nor arrests were reported.
Around the same time, Israeli forces backed by military vehicles moved into Bitounia village, west of Ramallah. They patrolled the streets for some time and withdrew later. Neither house raids nor arrests were reported.
At approximately 01:30, Israeli forces backed by military vehicles moved into ‘Aqrabah village, southeast of Nablus. They raided and searched a number of houses, from which they arrested Amjad ‘Abdel Rahman Diriyah (22).
Around the same time, Israeli forced backed by military vehicles moved into al-Samou’a village, south of Hebron. They patrolled the streets for some time and withdrew later. Neither house raids nor arrests were reported.
Also around the same time, Israeli forces backed by military vehicles moved into al-Dyouk village, northwest of Jericho. They patrolled the streets for some time and withdrew later. Neither house raids nor arrests were reported.
At approximately 02:00, Israeli forces moved into Termes’ayah village, north of Ramallah. They patrolled the streets for some time and withdrew later. Neither house raids nor arrests were reported.
At approximately 02:30, Israeli forces backed by military vehicles moved into al-‘Arroub refugee camp, north of Hebron. They patrolled the streets for some time and then stationed in the centre of the camp. They deployed between the houses and withdrew later. Neither house raids nor arrests were reported.
At approximately 03:00, Israeli forced backed by 3 military vehicles moved into Deir Samit village, southwest of Hebron. They patrolled the streets for some time and withdrew later. Neither house raids nor arrests were reported.
At approximately 06:15, Israeli gunboats stationed off al-Waha Shore, northwest of Beit Lahia in the northern Gaza Strip, opened fire in the vicinity of the Palestinian fishing boats sailing 3 nautical miles offshore. The shooting targeted a fishing boat, which held a registration plate No. (269), belonging to Kamel Dib Mahmoud al-Anqah (62) from al-Salatin area in Beit Lahia. The aforementioned boat was boarded by al-Anqah’s sons. The Israeli forces called on them via megaphones to stop moving and turn the engine off or they will shoot at them, but the sons kept sailing to the east towards the shore. No injuries were reported, but the aforementioned fishermen lost 4 nets which are 250 meters long.
At approximately 13:00, Israeli forces backed by military vehicles moved into Kafr ‘Ein village, northwest of Ramallah. They patrolled the streets for some time and withdrew later. Neither house raids nor arrests were reported.
At approximately 22:00, Israeli forces backed by military vehicles moved into al-‘Oja village, northeast of Jericho. They patrolled the streets for some time and withdrew later. No arrests were reported.
At approximately 22:30, Israeli forces stationed on the watchtowers, which are established along the fence surrounding “Beit Eil” settlement, north of Ramallah, opened fire at a group of boys in the agricultural lands near al-Jalzone UNRWA School for Boys to the west of the aforementioned settlement. As a result, Mohammed ‘Ali Hasan Safi (‘Eishawi) (18), from the camp, was wounded by 3 bullets to the left and right legs. He was arrested and taken to Hadasa ‘Ein Karem Hospital in Jerusalem, where his wounds were described as critical. The Palestinian Prisoner Club’s lawyer, who visited al-‘Eishawi in the aforementioned hospital, said that he underwent a surgery for one foot as he sustained laceration in the bones and he still needs more surgeries.
At approximately 23:00, Israeli forces backed by military vehicles moved into Beit Oula village, west of Hebron. They patrolled the streets for some time and withdrew later. Neither house raids nor arrests were reported.
At approximately 23:30, Israeli forces backed by military vehicles moved into ‘Ein al-Sultan refugee camp, west of Jericho. They patrolled the streets for some time and withdrew later. No arrests were reported.
Around the same time, Israeli forces backed by military vehicles moved into al-Dyouk village, northwest of Jericho. They patrolled the streets for some time and withdrew later. Neither house raids nor arrests were reported.
Sunday, 25 May 2014
At approximately 01:00, Israeli forces moved into al-Mowareq village, southwest of Dura, southwest 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 backed by military vehicles 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.
At approximately 03:00, Israeli forces backed by 3 military vehicles moved into al-Beit Kahel village, northwest of Hebron. They patrolled the streets for some time and withdrew later. Neither house raids nor arrests were reported.
At approximately 06:50, Israeli forces stationed on the watchtowers along the northern borders, northwest of Beit Hanoun in the northern Gaza Strip, opened fire at a group of workers who were collecting raw materials near the border in the destroyed industrial zone near Beit Hanoun “Erez” Crossing. As a result, Mohammed Mazen Bahjat al-Kafarnah (19) was wounded by a bullet to the left leg. He was taken to Kamal ‘Edwan Hospital, where he his wound was described as moderate.
At approximately 13:25, Israeli forces backed by military vehicles moved into Kafr al-Dik village, west of Salfit. They patrolled the streets for some time and withdrew later. Neither house raids nor arrests were reported.
At approximately 15:30, Israeli forces from “Karmi Tsour” settlement, which is established on Palestinian lands, south of Beit Ummar, north of Hebron, moved into the agricultural lands adjacent to the aforementioned settlement. They stopped two children, who were with their families collecting grape leaves. They arrested the two children; identified as Mohammed Nahyar ‘Awad (16) and ‘Obaidah Nabil Abu ‘Ayyash (16), and took them to the settlement.
At approximately 16:00, Israeli forces backed by military vehicles moved into al-Shyouk village, northeast of Hebron. They patrolled the streets and withdrew later. Neither house raids nor arrest were reported.
At approximately 18:20, Israeli forces backed by military vehicles moved into Kafr al-Dik village, west of Salfit, for the second times in few hours. They patrolled the streets for some time and withdrew at approximately 21:10. Neither house raids nor arrest were reported.
At approximately 22:50, Israeli forces backed by military vehicles moved into Qarawet Bani Hassan village, northwest of Salfit. They patrolled the streets for some time and withdrew at approximately 23:10. Neither house raids nor arrest were reported.
At approximately 22:25, Israeli forces backed by military vehicles moved into Bedia village, northwest of Salfit. They patrolled the streets for some time and withdrew at approximately 23:15. Neither house raids nor arrest were reported.
Monday, 26 May 2014
At approximately 01:00, Israeli forces backed by military vehicles moved into Beit Marsam village, southwest of Dura, southwest 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 backed by military vehicles moved into al-Fawar refugee camp, south of Hebron. They patrolled the streets and then stationed in the centre of the camp. They raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Mustafa Jawad Salim (17) after keeping his family in one room. Israeli forces arrested the aforementioned child and withdrew later taking him where the military vehicles were stationed. Meanwhile, Israeli forces raided and searched another two houses belonging to al-Wawi family. Israeli forces arrested Walid Fayez Hamed al-Wawi (19); Mohammed Fawzi Hamed al-Wawi (19). At approximately 16:00, they withdrew from the camp and took the three arrested persons to an unknown destination.
At approximately 13:00, Israeli forces backed by military vehicles moved into al-Kaher village, southwest of Bethlehem. They patrolled the streets for some time and then stationed near Sa’ed Bin al-‘Aas School. A number of boys gathered and threw stones and empty bottles at the Israeli soldiers, who fired in response sound bombs and tear gas canisters at them. As a result, some of the boys suffered tear gas inhalation. Meanwhile, the Israeli soldiers detained Yosif Raja ‘Issa (15) for a couple of hours, but released him later.
At approximately 13:30, Israeli forces backed by military vehicles moved into the southern area of Hebron. They patrolled the streets for some time and then stationed in Abu Sneinah neighbourhood. The Israeli soldiers deployed between the houses and a group of boys gathered and threw stones and empty bottles at them. The Israeli soldiers in response fired sound bombs and tear gas canisters indiscriminately. As a result, a number of civilians suffer tear gas inhalation. The Israeli soldiers withdrew later, and neither house raids nor arrests were reported.
Around the same time, Israeli forces backed by 3 military vehicles moved into Hahloul, north of Hebron. They patrolled the streets and withdrew later. Neither house raids nor arrests were reported.
At approximately 15:00, Israeli forces stationed along the border fence, northwest of Beit Lahia in the northern Gaza Strip, opened fire at a group of Palestinian civilians who were along the Beit Lahia shore. As a result, ‘Emad Shokri Salem (52), from Beit Lahia Housing Project, was wounded by two bullets to the back and right hand. He was transferred to receive medical treatment at Kamal ‘Edwan Hospital where his wound was described as serious. He was then admitted into the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). It should be mentioned that Salem was fishing off Beit Lahia shore around 300 meters away from the northern borders.
At approximately 20:00, Israeli forces backed by military vehicles moved into Ya’bed village, southwest of Jenin. They patrolled the streets and then raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Bashar Khaled ‘Abdel Jabbar Abu Baker (52). They arrested his son, Nour (17). Israeli forces then raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Mahmoud Jamal Khaled Abu Baker (18) and arrested him as well. Israeli forces withdrew later taking the two detainees to an unknown destination.
At approximately 22:00, Israeli forces backed by military vehicles moved into several neighbourhoods in the centre of Yata, south of Hebron. They patrolled the streets for some time and withdrew later, and no arrests were reported.
Tuesday, 27 May 2014
At approximately 01:00, Israeli forces backed by 2 military vehicles moved into al-‘Arroub refugee camp, north of Hebron. They patrolled the streets for some time and withdrew later. No arrests were reported.
At approximately 01:30, Israeli forces backed by military vehicles moved into Tubas. They patrolled the streets and then raided and searched a number of houses. They arrested Merwan Mohammed al-Masri (23) from his family’s house near al-Masri wedding hall and al-Tawhid Mosque in the centre of the city.
At approximately 02:00, Israeli forces backed by 4 military vehicles moved into several neighbourhoods in the centre of Yata, 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 backed by military vehicles moved into Tulkarm. They patrolled the streets and then raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Hamzah Mohammed Mustafa Salamah “al-Safi” (21), whom they arrested. Israeli forces then patrolled the streets to the east and moved into Tulkarm refugee camp. They raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Mos’ab ‘Adnan Ahmed Khader al-Hosari (24) and arrested him as well. Israeli forces then patrolled the streets to Zannabah suburb, east of the city. They raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Hamadah Khalil Yousif Abu ‘Awad (28) and handed him a notice to refer to the Israeli Intelligence in the Israeli Liaison (DCO), southwest of Tulkarm. Israeli forces withdrew later from the city taking the detainees to an unknown destination.
At approximately 03:00, Israeli forces backed by military vehicles moved into Beit Ummar village, north of Hebron. They patrolled the streets and then stationed in the centre of the village. They raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Wahid Hamdi Abu Mariyah (49), a former prisoner in the Israeli jails, after keeping his family in one room. They arrested his son, Hamzah (25), and took him to where the vehicles were stationed. Meanwhile, Israeli forces raided and searched 4 houses in al-Tahta neighbourhood for 3 hours. Israeli forces arrested 4 civilians identified as:
1. Saddam ‘Adel Sleibi (21);
2. Mohammed Jamal Mahmoud ‘Alqam (22);
3. ‘Ammar Mohammed ‘Abdel Hamid Abu Mariyah (20); and
4. Mohammed Sa’id Sabarnah (22).
At approximately 07:00, the Israeli soldiers withdrew and took the five detainees to an unknown destination.
Around the same time, Israeli forces backed by military vehicles moved into Za’atrah village, east of Bethlehem. They patrolled the streets for some time and withdrew later. Neither house raids nor arrests were reported.
At approximately 13:00, Israeli forces moved into Beit Ummar village, north of Hebron, while proceeding one of their deaths to the village cemetery adjacent to bypass road (60). Israeli forces fired sound bombs and tear gas canisters randomly at them. Young men gathered and threw stones and empty bottles at the Israeli soldiers who in response closed the village’s entrance and prevented civilians’ movement. Moreover, they chased the young men and fired rubber-coated metal bullets at them. No arrests were reported.
At approximately 23:00, Israeli naval forces arrested 3 Palestinian fishermen while sailing 3 nautical miles off Rafah shore in the southern Gaza Strip. The fishermen were identified as; Ibrahim Khamis Murad (45); his son Khamis (19); and Ahmed al-Jizawi. It should be mentioned that they are still under arrest.
Wednesday, 28 May 2014
At approximately 00:30, Israeli forces backed by military vehicles moved into Majdal Bani Fadel village, southeast of Nablus. They raided and searched a number of houses, from which they arrested Samaher Soliman ‘Ali Zain al-Deen (33), the wife of former prisoner Nader Zain al-Deen. They withdrew later taking her to an unknown destination.
At approximately 01:30, Israeli forces moved into Ethna village, west of Hebron. They patrolled the streets for some time and withdrew later. Neither house raids nor arrests were reported.
At approximately 02:00, Israeli forces backed by military vehicles moved into Jenin. They raided and searched a number of houses, from which they arrested 7 civilians. An eyewitness said to a PCHR fieldworker that clashes broke out between the Israeli soldiers and Palestinian youngsters, who gathered near the Israeli vehicles and threw stones and empty bottles at the Israeli soldiers. The Israeli soldiers in response fired sound bombs and tear gas canisters at the stone-throwers to disperse them. The Israeli soldiers withdrew later taking the detainees to an unknown destination. The detainees were identified as:
1. ‘Alaa’ Yousif Sadeq al-Qarout (20);
2. Osayd Ahmed Mohammed Ramo al-Ball (22);
3. Ahmed Taher Zakarnah (22);
4. His brother, Shawqi, (21);
5. Mohammed Jaber Zakarnah (21);
6. Wasim ‘Eid Jasem Mer’ei (25); and
7. ‘Assem Jamal ‘Abdel Salam Abu al-Hayjaa’ (27).
Around the same time, Israeli forces backed by military vehicles moved into ‘Aydah refugee camp, north of Bethlehem. They patrolled the streets for some time and then stationed at the western entrance of the camp. They raided and searched a number of houses from which they arrested 3 civilians, including a child, and took him to an unknown destination. The detainees were identified as: Khader Akram Abu Khdeir (19); Ahmed ‘Amer ‘Odah (20); and Ahmed Ibrahim ‘Eid Jawarish (17).
Around the same time, Israeli forces backed by military vehicles moved into several neighbourhoods in the center of Hebron. They patrolled the streets and then stationed in al-Sheikh neighbourhood. They raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Yousif ‘Ali Hammad Ghaith (21) after leaving his family outside. They arrested him and took him to where the military vehicles were stationed. At approximately 03:00, Israeli forces patrolled the streets to Be’er al-Mahjar area in the northwest of the city and then stationed in al-Mafareq area. Israeli soldiers raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Shaher Yousif al-Qawasmah, whom they arrested. They withdrew later taking the detainees to an unknown destination.
At approximately 04:00, Israeli forces moved into ‘Atil village, north of Tulkarm. They patrolled the streets and then raided and searched a house belonging to the family of ‘Eqab Zuhair al-‘Eteili (38), whom they questioned on the spot. Israeli forces withdrew later, and neither further incidents nor arrests were reported.
At approximately 03:00, Israeli forces backed by military vehicles moved into Yata, south of Hebron. They patrolled the streets and then stationed in al-Souq area. They raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Bajes Ibrahim al-Dababsah (30). They arrested the aforementioned person and withdrew later taking him to an unknown destination.
At approximately 10:00, Israeli forces backed by military vehicles moved into Jenin. They patrolled the streets and then raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Mahdi Hasan Fawzi Salah al-Hifawi (35) in addition to causing damage to the house. They handed him a notice to refer to the Israeli Intelligence in Salem Camp, northwest of Jenin on Thursday, 29 May 2014. They withdrew later, and no further incidents were reported.
At approximately 14:00, Israeli forces arrested ‘Alaa’ Yousif Mohammed Abu Baker (17) and Mahmoud Hussein Herzallah (17), both from Ya’abed village, southwest of Jenin, when they were in Salem Camp, northwest of Jenin, upon a notice they early received.
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.
(PCHR keeps the names of the wounded in fear of being arrested by the Israeli forces within its policy to oppress the peaceful protests and prevent Palestinian civilians from participating).
Demonstrations against the construction of the annexation wall and settlement activity
Following the Friday Prayer, 23 May 2014, dozens of Palestinian civilians and international and Israeli human rights defenders organized a peaceful demonstration in Bil’in, west of Ramallah, in protest at the construction of the annexation wall and settlement activities and in solidarity with Palestinian prisoners on hunger strike. Demonstrators took the streets raising the Palestinian flags and headed to the liberated territories near the annexation wall. Israeli forces 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 into the olive fields. As a result, a number of demonstrators suffered tear gas inhalation and others sustained bruises as they were beaten up by Israeli soldiers.
On the same day, dozens of Palestinian civilians organized 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 and in solidarity with Palestinian detainees on hunger strike. 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 crossing to the land behind it before they responded by throwing stones. Israeli soldiers fired live ammunition, rubber-coated metal bullets, sound bombs and tear gas canisters at the demonstrators. They also sprayed waste water at them and chased them into the olive fields. As a result, 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 Nabi Saleh village, northwest of Ramallah, in protest at the construction of the annexation wall and settlement activities, in solidarity with the Palestinian prisoners on hunger strike. Demonstrators took the streets raising the Palestinian flags and chanting slogans against the occupation and in support of the Palestinian unity, and they then headed to the lands that the settlers are trying to seize by force near “Halmish” settlement. Israeli forces closed all the entrances of the village since the morning to prevent Palestinian and international activists and journalists from participating in the demonstration. When they arrived at the aforementioned land, Israeli forces fired live bullets, tear gas canisters, rubber-coated metal bullets, sound bombs and waste water at the demonstrators and chased into the village. Moreover, many demonstrators suffered tear gas inhalation, and others sustained bruises due to being beaten up by Israeli soldiers.
At approximately 13:00 on the aforementioned day, dozens of Palestinian civilians and international activists organized a peaceful demonstration in the centre of Kufor Qaddoum village, northeast of Qalqilya, in protest at the closure of the eastern entrance of the village with a metal gate since the beginning of the second Intifada. Protestors threw stones at the Israeli soldiers who fired live bullets, tear gas canisters, rubber-coated steel bullets, and sound bombs in response. As a result, many civilians suffered tear gas inhalation and others sustained bruises due to being beaten up by Israeli soldiers.
Other Demonstrations
On Friday afternoon, 23 May 2014, dozens of Palestinian young men gathered near ‘Ofer prison, southwest of Ramallah, to organize a demonstration in solidarity with administrative detainees in the Israeli jails. Protesters headed towards the prison’s gate, so the Israeli forces closed the gate and large numbers of Israeli soldiers were deployed in the vicinity of it. Protestors set fire to tires and threw stones and empty bottles at the Israeli soldiers who fired in response live ammunition, rubber-coated metal bullets, sound bombs and tear gas canisters at them. As a result, 3 civilians sustained wounds and were taken to Palestine Medical Complex to receive the necessary medical treatment. Moreover, a number of civilians suffered tear gas inhalation. The first civilian (19) sustained a bullet wound to the right leg, the second one (24) was hit by a tear gas canister to his chest, and the third one (23) sustained a metal bullet wound to his forehead.
After the Friday prayer of the aforementioned day, dozens of Palestinian young men gathered at the western entrance of Selwad village, northeast of Ramallah on the road between Selwad village and Yabrod village near Street (60) to throw stones at the aforementioned street. The Israeli soldiers stationed in the area fired live ammunition, rubber-coated metal bullets, sound bombs and tear gas canisters at them and chased them into the village. As a result, a number of civilians suffered tear gas inhalation and others sustained bruises as they were beaten up by Israeli soldiers.
At approximately 13:00 on Saturday, 24 May 2014, activists from the Popular Committee against the Wall and Settlements and Hebron Defense Committee and other civilians residents organized a peaceful demonstration at the entrance of al-Fawwar refugee camp in solidarity with the Palestinian prisoners on hunger strike. Demonstrators took the streets raising the Palestinian flags and chanting slogans against the occupation. Israeli soldiers moved into the area and deployed in order to distance the demonstrators from the area. The Israeli soldiers then fired sound bombs and tear gas canisters at the demonstrators. As a result, some of them suffered tear gas inhalation. Meanwhile, youngsters gathered to throw stones and empty bottles at the soldiers who fired tear gas canisters in response. No arrests were reported.
3. Continued closure of the oPt
Israel continued to impose a tight 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 tighten the closure of the Gaza Strip and close 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 were 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 fluctuated 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 tons of cooking gas into Gaza per day. This limited quantity is less than half of the daily needs, which is 200 tons 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 instances 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 for gas further increased.
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 UNRWA and UNDP projects. As a result, construction works have completely stopped impacting all sectors related to construction and an increase in unemployment levels.
Israeli forces also continued to impose an 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. Supposedly 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 travelers’ movement in both directions.
Movement at Karm Abu Salem (Kerem Shalom) Crossing
Date
Imports
Category
Amount
Tons
Number
Liters
18 May 2014
Foodstuffs
1,108
Agricultural materials
851
Various goods
Cartons of clothes
Marble boards
Refrigerators
Solar Panels
Birds
Batteries
Cartons of shoes
Photocopiers
697
330
440
102
3,100
134
200
450
1,960
3
Humanitarian aid
3,413
Cooking gas
268.710
Benzene
214,000
Diesel
464,089
Industrial diesel
357,003
20 May 2014
Foodstuffs
712
Agricultural materials
1,091
Various goods
Eggs
Cartons of clothes
Marble boards
Washing machines
Solar panels
Printers
Fans
Cartons of shoes
985
131,500
1,304
1,533
200
1,160
158
200
945
Humanitarian aid
93
Cooking gas
275.340
Benzene
214,000
Diesel
396.300
Industrial diesel
364.996
Benzene (UNRWA)
105,191
Diesel (UNRWA)
35,000
21 May 2014
Foodstuffs
1,276
Agricultural materials
1,272
Various goods
Refrigerators
Cows
Marble boards
Fans
Computer stuff
Batteries
Cartons of shoes
522
183
487
312
240
410
1,852
1,200
Humanitarian aid
3,651
Cooking gas
245.370
Benzene
220,100
Diesel
414,025
Industrial diesel
35,000
Diesel (UNRWA)
105,190
22 May 2014
Foodstuffs
1,543
Agricultural materials
1,456
Various goods
Cartons of clothes
Marble boards
Refrigerators
Generators
Cows
Solar panels
Washing machines
Televisions
Cartons of shoes
Air conditioners
Bakery machines
Fans
768
1,494
650
120
14
468
80
60
102
570
51
2
4,004
Humanitarian aid
4,780
Cooking gas
264.150
Benzene
177,000
Diesel
293,012
Industrial diesel
368,062
Other Imports:
On Sunday, 18 May 2014, Israeli forces allowed the entry of 2,690 tons of cement and another 380 tons of cement for UNRWA. They also allowed the entry of 456 tons of fodders and 280 tons of wheat.
On Tuesday, 20 May 2014, Israeli forces allowed the entry of 665 tons of fodders and 255 tons of wheat.
On Wednesday, 21 May 2014, Israeli forces allowed the entry of 3,375 tons of cement and another 120 tons of cement for UNRWA. They also allowed the entry of 565 tons of fodders and 490 tons of wheat.
On Thursday, 22 May 2014, Israeli forces allowed the entry of 3,865 tons of cement and another 317 tons of cement for UNRWA. They also allowed the entry of 840 tons of fodders and 385 tons of wheat.
Empty Plastic Containers Returned to Israel via Karm Abu Salem
On Sunday, 18 May 2014, Israeli forces allowed 7 truckloads of empty plastic containers to be returned via Karm Abu Salem.
On Tuesday, 20 May 2014, Israeli forces allowed 3 truckloads of empty plastic containers, 3 truckloads of wooden boards, and a truckload of empty oxygen tanks to be returned via Karm Abu Salem.
On Wednesday, 21 May 2014, Israeli forces allowed 2 truckloads of empty plastic containers to be returned via Karm Abu Salem.
On Thursday, 22 May 2014, Israeli forces allowed 4 truckloads of empty plastic containers to be returned via Karm Abu Salem.
Note:
No Palestinian products were exported during the reporting period.
Beit Hanoun ("Erez") crossing, in the north of the Gaza Strip, is designated for the movement of individuals, and links the Gaza Strip with the West Bank.
Movement at Beit Hanoun (“Erez”) crossing
21– 26 May 2014
Category
21 May
22 May
23 May
24 May
25 May
26 May
Patients
61
53
6
91
75
Companions
61
47
5
89
78
Personal needs
82
63
10
119
51
Families of prisoners
Arabs from Israel
3
19
4
6
Diplomats
International journalists
International workers
46
70
13
5
8
Deceased
Travelers abroad
1
1
2
Business people
121
14
3
129
157
Business meetings
1
Security interviews
8
2
1
4
VIPs
1
2
1
Ambulances to Israel
4
4
2
8
6
Note: Israeli authorities have allowed Christians from Gaza to see Pope Francis, on Sunday, in the occupied West Bank city of Bethlehem. The numbers of Christians who were allowed into the West Bank were as follows:
Wednesday 21 May 2014: 20 persons
Thursday 22 May 2014: 77 persons
Friday 23 May 2014: 56 persons
Sunday 25 May 2014: 25 persons
Monday 26 May 2014: 33 persons
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:
· Hebron: Israeli forces have continued to impose severe restrictions on the movement of Palestinian civilians. At approximately 07:00 on Thursday, 22 May 2014, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the entrance of Sa’ir village, east of Hebron and another one at the entrance of Beit Ainoun, east of the city. At approximately 08:00, Israeli forces established a similar checkpoint at the entrance of Naim village, east of the city. All checkpoints were removed later, and no arrests were reported.
At approximately 08:00 on Friday, 23 May 2014, Israeli forces established a checkpoint on Wadi al-Reesh road, west of Ezna village, west of Hebron. The checkpoint was removed later, and no arrests were reported.
At approximately 07:30 on Saturday, 24 May 2014, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the entrance of al-Fawwar refugee camp, near the road no. 60, south of Hebron. At approximately 15:00, another checkpoint was established at the entrance of al- Zaheria village, south of the city. All checkpoints were removed later, and no arrests were reported.
At approximately 16:30 on Sunday, 25 May 2014, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the entrance of al-Samou’ village, east of Hebron. The checkpoint was removed later, and no arrests were reported.
At approximately 07:30 on Monday, 26 May 2014, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the entrance of Sa’ir village, east of Hebron and another one at the northern entrance of the city. All checkpoints were removed later, and no arrests were reported.
At approximately 07:30 on Tuesday, 27 May 2014, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the entrance of Halhoul village, east of Hebron. At approximately 16:00 on the aforementioned day, Israeli forces established a checkpoint on Wadi al-Reesh road, west of Ezna village, west of Hebron. All checkpoints were removed later, and no arrests were reported.
At approximately 16:00 on Wednesday, 28 May 2014, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the entrance of Beit Amr village, north of Hebron. The checkpoint was removed later, and no arrests were reported.
· Ramallah: Israeli forces have continued to impose severe restrictions on the movement of Palestinian civilians. At approximately 09:30 on Thursday, 22 May 2014, Israeli forces redeployed at Attarah checkpoint, at the northern entrance of Beir Zeit village, north of Ramallah. At approximately 15:00, a similar checkpoint was established under the bridge of Kherbtha al-Mesbah village, southwest of the city. All checkpoints were removed later, and no arrests were reported.
At approximately 09:30 on Friday, 23 May 2014, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the entrance of al-Nabi Saleh village, east of the city. At approximately 18:30, a similar checkpoint was established near the intersection of Beit O’re al-Foqa, southeast of Ramallah All checkpoints were removed later, and no arrests were reported.
At approximately 09:30 on Saturday, 24 May 2014, Israeli forces established a checkpoint under Ain Yabroud bridge, northeast of Ramallah. At approximately 20:30, Israeli forces established a checkpoint near Ofra settlement, north of the city. At approximately 20:20, Israeli forces redeployed at Attarah checkpoint, at the northern entrance of Beir Zeit village, north of Ramallah. All checkpoints were removed later, and no arrests were reported
· Bethlehem: Israeli forces have continued to impose severe restrictions on the movement of Palestinian civilians.
At approximately 07:30 on Monday, 26 May 2014, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the entrance of Beit Fajjar village, south of Bethlehem. The checkpoint was removed later, and no arrests were reported.
At approximately 15:00 on Tuesday, 27 May 2014, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the entrance of Wad Rahal village, southeast of the city. The checkpoint was removed later, and no arrests were reported.
· Jericho: Israeli forces have continued to impose severe restrictions on the movement of Palestinian civilians. At approximately 22:00 on Thursday, 22 May 2014, Israeli forces established a checkpoint near the entrance of Fasayel village, north of Jericho. The checkpoint was removed later, and no arrests were reported.
At approximately 09:00 on Friday, 23 May 2014, another checkpoint was established the entrance of al-Zubeidat village, north of the city. The checkpoint was removed later, and no arrests were reported.
At approximately 09:30 on Saturday, 24 May 2014, Israeli forces established a checkpoint near the entrance of Fasayel village, north of Jericho. At approximately 18:30, a similar checkpoint was established at the southern entrance of the city. Both checkpoints were removed later, and no arrests were reported.
· Qalqilya: Israeli forces have continued to impose severe restrictions on the movement of Palestinian civilians. At approximately 12:00 on Ssturday, 24 May 2014, Israeli forces established a checkpoint between ‘Azoun village and ‘Izbat al-Tabeeb village, east of Qalqilya. At approximately 13:00, the checkpoint was removed, and no arrests were reported.
At approximately 20:45 on Sunday, 25 May 2014, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the entrance of the tunnel of Habla village, at the southern entrance of the city. At approximately 21:30, the checkpoint was removed, and no arrests were reported.
At approximately 13:30 on Monday, 26 May 2014, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the intersection of Jeet village, northeast of Qalqilya. At approximately 14:30, the checkpoint was removed, and no arrests were reported.
· Salfit: Israeli forces have continued to impose severe restrictions on the movement of Palestinian civilians. At approximately 13:50 on Saturday, 24 May 2014, Israeli forces established a checkpoint between Salfit city and Iskaka village, east of the city. At approximately 22:45 of the aforementioned day, a similar checkpoint was established at the western entrance of Deir Istia village, northwest of the city. Both checkpoints were removed, and no arrests were reported.
At approximately 13:10 on Sunday, 25 May 2014, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the western entrance of Marda village, north of the Salfit. At approximately 15:30, a similar checkpoint at the western entrance of Deir Ballut village, west of the city. Both checkpoints were removed, and no arrests were reported.
· Tulkarm: Israeli forces have continued to impose severe restrictions on the movement of Palestinian civilians. At approximately 13:45 on Sunday, 25 May 2014, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the entrance of Faroun village, south of Tulkarm. The checkpoint was removed later, and no arrests were reported. At approximately 20:30 on the aforementioned day, Israeli forces established a checkpoint on the road between ‘Ezbet Shofah and Shofah villages, southeast of Tulkarm. All checkpoints were removed later, and no arrests were reported
At approximately 08:30 on Monday, 26 May 2014, Israeli forces stationed at ‘Inab checkpoint on the main road between Tulkarm and Nablus, east of Tulkarm tightened restrictions against Palestinians and obstructed their movement. The tightening ended later and no arrests were reported.
Around the same time, Israeli forces established a checkpoint on the main road between Tulkarm and Nablus near the intersection of Beit Leed village, east of Tulkarm. The checkpoint was removed later, and no arrests were reported.
Arrests and Maltreatment near the Border between the Gaza Strip and Israel
• On 22 May 2014, Israeli forces stationed at the border fence, east of Jabalia, in the northern Gaza Strip, arrested Harb Maher Abdel Rahamn Abu Wadi (20) from al-Jurn neighborhood, downtown Jabalia. The detainess was trying to pass the border in order to infiltrate to Israel to work there. According to field investigations, the young man was arrest when he was trying to pass the border with 3 other men.
• Later on the aforementioned day, Israeli forces stationed at the border fence, east of Beit Hanoun, in the northern Gaza Strip, arrested Mahmoud Ahmad Salem Mrueished (19) from Abu Safia area, east of Jabalia. The detainee was trying to pass the border in order to infiltrate to Israel to work there. The prisoner called his parents from prison and informed them that they must appoint a lawyer.
Arrests and Maltreatment at Military Checkpoints
• At approximately 09:00 on Thursday, 22 May 2014, Israeli forces stationed at al-Karama border crossing, east of Jericho arrested Riad Fares al-Hassan (22), a student at al-Najah University. Al-Hassan was taken to an unknown destination after he was held for 5 hours. It should be noted that the aforementioned detainee is the son of Fares Abu al-Hassan, a Palestinian lawyer, head of Solidarity Foundation for Human Rights and a detainee in Israeli prisons as well.
• At approximately 14:30 on Tuesday, 27 May 2014, Israeli forces stationed at al-Musafer area, east of Yatta, south of Hebron, arrested 4 girls who were returning from al-Tawani school to their homes at Kherbat al-Toba, which is under the threat of displacement. Later, the girls, who were handed to the Palestinian military liaison, were identified as:
1. Nour Shahada Makhamrah (13);
2. Dalal Ali Awad (13);
3. Ashraf Omar Abu Jindiah (13), and;
4. Randa Shahada Makhamrah (13).
4. Settlement activities and attacks by settlers against Palestinian civilians and property
Attacks carried out by Israeli forces
· At approximately 09:00 on Thursday, 22 May 2014, Israeli forces accompanied by a group of settlers moved into Thaher al-Soboh area, north of Kafr al-Deek village, west of Salfit. They surveyed tracts of lands in the area till at approximately 15:00. At approximately 09:00 on Sunday, 25 May 2014, Israeli forces backed by bulldozers moved again into the area and then leveled tracts of lands in it. The lands threatened by leveling is located adjacent to “Brokhin” and “’Ali Zihaf” settlements. The leveling is still ongoing as they leveled around 80 dunums from the agricultural lands.
Jamal al-Deek, Mayor of Kafr al-Deek village, said to a PCHR fieldworker that:
“On Tuesday, 27 May 2014, we headed to the Israeli military Liaison in Qalqilya crossing and filed a complaint asking them to tell us about what happened as the owners of the lands were not informed via the official newspapers. Moreover, no outline was sent to the municipality and as usual they did not inform us about the leveling. We were then informed that this area has been declared as a governmental land since 1986 and around 152 dunums will be leveled.”
Attacks carried out by settlers
· On Thursday evening, 22 May 2014, settlers from “Mitsibi Ya’ir” settlement established on Palestinian lands, east of Yatta, south of Hebron, set fire to peals of wheat crops on a land belonging to Khaled Mousa al-Najjar (60) from Qawawis village, east of the city. The aforementioned settlement is around 1500 meters to the east of the aforementioned land while it is surrounded by “Sousia” settlement from the west around 500 meters.
· At approximately 21:00 on Friday, 23 May 2014, four settlers from “Kokhaf Hashaher” settlement established on the lands of Deir Jarir village, northeast of Ramallah, attacked two civilians who were on the road between Mekhmas and al-Tibah villages, northeast of the city. During their attack, the settlers used plastic sticks, clubs and a knife causing injuries and bruises to them.
Ahmed ‘Abdullah ‘Abbas (43) said to a PCHR fieldworker that:
“At approximately 21:00 on Friday, 23 May 2014, I went with my friend, Salah Mohammed Salamh ‘Ara’rah (40), travelling his car to his sheep barn in an agricultural area near al-Tibah village, northeast of Ramallah. My friend is from the Bedouin Complex near Jabe’a village, north of Jerusalem. While we were travelling on the road between the villages of Mekhmas and al-Tibah near “Caramelo” checkpoint, I asked him to stop by the street side to pee as I have diabetes and blood pressure. I stopped 10 meters away from the car and then was surprised with 4 settlers holding plastic sticks and clubs. Three of them hit me on my head and throughout my body. I immediately fell on the ground and they started kicking me. The fourth settler attacked Salah with a knife, but Salah ran towards Street (60). Around 20 minutes later, Salah came with some civilians in two cars, so the settlers flee immediately. I was bleeding from my face and head. They put me in the car and headed to al-Hanan Medical Centre in Kafr ‘Aqab village to receive medical treatment. On the next day, I went to an ophthalmologist and had some tests and x-ray. At approximately 18:30 on Sunday, 25 May 2014, when I was in my family house in Bitin village, northeast of Ramallah, I had a sudden seizure and fained. I was taken to Palestine Governmental Medical Complex in Ramallah, where I had an x-ray. It was found out that I sustain a fracture in the chamber of the right eye and another fracture in the nose in addition to bruises in the neck and head and throughout my body.”
· At approximately 09:50 on Monday, 26 May 2014, an armed settler entered al-Nabi Elias village, east of Qalqilya, and brandished his weapon in the faces of Mousa ‘Abdel Latif Salim (32) and Mofid ‘Abdullah Salim (31) while being in a shop threatening them to burn to the shop. Israeli forces then intervened after the Palestinian Military Liasion had informed them about what happened, but the settler managed to flee.
Mousa ‘Abdel Latif said to a PCHR fieldworker that:
“At approximately 09:50 on Monday, 26 May 2014, when Mofid ‘Abdullah Salim (31) and I entered my shop on the main street in al-Nabi Elias village, east of Qalqilya, as I work in an auto accessories shop, an Israeli settler suddenly entered, approached me and brandished his weapon in my face. He threatened me under the pretext that I chased his car. I told him that I neither did that nor hit his car, but he threatened me to burn the shop and come again for me. He said remember me and I told him: do not worry I am waiting for you.”
· At approximately 10:00 on the same day, settlers from “Hayofal” outpost established on the Palestinian lands, west of Qaryout village, southeast of Nablus, cut down 30 almond and olive trees from the aforementioned village lands. The attack was backed by the settlement guard, who claimed that the trees were cut for security reasons. It should be mentioned that the attacked land is not more than 100 meters away from the outskirts of the village and settlement. The trees belong to Hassan Nemer Zaghwan; ‘Odah ‘Othman Mohammed Hussein; and Kayed Hamdan al-Boom.
· At approximately 09:00 on Tuesday, 27 May 2014, when Fawzi Ibrahim ‘Abed Haj Mohammed arrived at his land in Khelet Abu Shabraqah area, southeast of Jaloud village, southeast of Nablus, he was surprised that settlers entered their sheep into the land and damaged the wheat crops, i.e. 45 dunums, losing around 45,000 NIS. It should be mentioned that the aforementioned civilian needs a security coordination to enter his land as it is located in the area classified as “C” and only 400 meters away from “Ahyah” settlement and 50 meters away from “Yash Kodish” settlement. The land is around 300 dunums and he only enters it twice a year; when he ploughs it and when he harvests it.
Recommendations to the International Community
PCHR emphasizes the international community’s position that the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, are still under Israeli occupation, in spite of Israeli military redeployment outside the Gaza Strip in 2005. PCHR further confirms that Israeli forces 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 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, 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;
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 directly 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 violations 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.