Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (30 August – 05 September 2018)

September 6, 2018

Israeli forces continued to use force against Palestinian peaceful protestors in the Gaza Strip.
95 Palestinian civilians were wounded, including 18 children, 3 paramedics; one of them is a woman who was seriously wounded, and a journalist.
A civilian was killed after claiming he carried out a stab attack in Hebron.
10 Palestinian civilians, including 2 children and 2 journalists, were wounded in the West Bank.

Israeli forces continued to open fire at the border areas in the Gaza Strip, but no casualties were reported.

Israeli forces conducted 86 incursions into Palestinian communities in the West Bank.
55 civilians, including 7 children, were arrested in the West Bank.
13 of them were arrested in Jerusalem.

Israeli authorities continued to create a Jewish majority in occupied East Jerusalem.
Part of a wall was destroyed in Bab al-‘Amoud area in the Old City in addition to a facility and 2 houses in occupied Jerusalem.
The Israeli court decided to demolish Khan al-Ahmar Bedouin Community, east of occupied Jerusalem.

Israeli forces continued their settlement activities in the West Bank.
A residential room, 2 portable bathrooms, and an auto repair workshop were demolished in Yata in addition to 4 houses in al-Waljah in Bethlehem under the pretext of non-licensing.
20 fruitful olive trees were uprooted in Nablus.
A house and vehicle were attacked, and the passengers were wounded due to the scattering glass.
Slogans in Hebrew were sprayed-painted on the wall of an under-construction house and 4 cars in addition to slashing the wheels in Nablus.

7 shooting incidents were reported against the Palestinian fishing boats in the Gaza Sea, but no casualties were reported.
6 fishermen were arrested off Deir al-Balah Shore and a boat was drowned off northern Gaza Shore.

Israeli forces turned the West Bank into cantons and continued to impose the illegal closure on the Gaza Strip for the 11^th consecutive year.
Dozens of temporary checkpoints were established in the West Bank and others were re-established to obstruct the movement of Palestinian civilians.
Beit Hanoun “Erez” Crossing in the northern Gaza Strip was closed until a further notice.
7 Palestinian civilians, including a child, were arrested at the military checkpoints in the West Bank.

Summary

Israeli violations of international law and international humanitarian law in the oPt continued during the reporting period (30 August – 05 September 2018).

Shooting:

Israeli forces continued to use lethal force against Palestinian civilians, who participated in peaceful demonstrations organized within the activities of the “Great March of Return and Breaking the Siege” in the Gaza Strip, which witnessed for the 23^rd week in a row peaceful demonstrations along the eastern and northern Gaza Strip border area. During the reporting period, which witnessed only one demonstration near the western Gaza Shore, the Israeli forces wounded 95 civilians, including 18 children, 3 paramedics; one of them is a woman who was seriously wounded, and a journalist. In the West Bank, the Israeli forces wounded 26 civilians, including 2 children and 2 journalists.

Injuries in the Gaza Strip during this Week

Governorate	Injuries
Governorate	Total	Children	Women	Journalists	Paramedics	Critical Injuries
Northern Gaza Strip	36	10	0	0	1	0
Gaza City	17	2	0	0	0	0
Central Gaza Strip	11	4	0	0	0	1
Khan Younis	14	1	0	0	1	0
Rafah	17	1	1	1	1	0
Total	95	18	1	1	3	1

As part of targeting Palestinian fishermen in the Gaza Sea, the Israeli forces continued to escalate their attacks against the Palestinian fishermen, pointing out to the ongoing Israeli policy of targeting their livelihoods. During the reporting period, PCHR documented 7 shooting incidents at the fishermen, including 6 in northern Gaza Strip and 1 in the central Gaza Strip. During the incidents, 6 fishermen were arrested and a boat manned by 2 brother fishermen was drowned. However, the two fishermen survived.

In the West Bank, during the reporting period, the Israeli forces wounded 26 Palestinian civilians, including 2 children and 2 journalists. Eight of those wounded were targeted during the Israeli forces’ suppression of the weekly protests against settlements. Moreover, the 2 journalists were wounded on 03 September 2018 when the Israeli forces suppressed a protest in Ras Karkar village, west of Ramallah. On the same day, 16 civilians were wounded when the Israeli forces moved into al-Waljah area in Bethlehem to demolish 4 houses.

On 03 September 2018, Israeli forces killed Wael ‘Abdel Fattah al-Ja’abari (36) from al-Mohawel neighbourhood, east of Hebron, within H2 area which is under the Israeli security control, claiming al-Ja’abari attempted to carry out a stab attack with a knife. However, there was no eyewitness to confirm or refute the incident.

Incursions:

During the reporting period, Israeli forces conducted at least 86 military incursions into Palestinian communities in the West Bank and 7 similar ones into Jerusalem and its suburbs. During those incursions, Israeli forces arrested at least 42 Palestinians, including 7 children, in the West Bank. Meanwhile, 13 other civilians were arrested in Jerusalem and its suburbs.

Israeli Forces Continued their Measures to Create a Jewish Majority in occupied East Jerusalem

As part of demolishing houses and civilian facilities, on 30 August 2018, the Israeli municipality staffs demolished parts of a wall near Bab al-‘Amoud area in occupied East Jerusalem’s Old City and opened a new gate to connect the Christian Quarter in the Old City.

On 04 September, the Israeli vehicles demolished a facility for grazing sheep in ‘Anata village, northeast of East Jerusalem. On the same day, the Israeli municipality vehicles demolished a residential house and barrack in al-Fheidat neighbourhood in ‘Anata village, northeast of occupied East Jerusalem under the pretext of not licensing.

On Wednesday morning, 05 September 2018, the Israeli Supreme Court in occupied East Jerusalem decided to demolish al-Khan Al-Ahmar Bedouin Community, east of the occupied city and displace dozens of Palestinian families living there. Around 80 Palestinian families of 190 persons from al-Jahalin tribe lives in al-Khan al-Ahmar and its surrounding. Al-Khan al-Ahmar is considered one of 46 Palestinian Bedouin communities in the West Bank facing the same threat.

On the same day, the Israeli forces demolished a house in Ras al-‘Amoud neighbourhood, east of occupied East Jerusalem, under the pretext of building without a license and another house belonging to Na’im Farah and his sons in al-‘Aqabah neighbourhood in Beit Hanina village, north of occupied East Jerusalem, under the pretext of building without a license.

Israeli Forces continued their settlement activities, and the settlers continued their attacks against Palestinian civilians and their property

As part of demolitions, on 03 September 2018, the Israeli forces demolished a residential room in the south-eastern side of Yata, south of Hebron. They also demolished 2 portable bathrooms built on an area of 1 square metre and a tin-plate barrack of 40 square meters used as an auto repair workshop located in the vicinity. On the same day, the Israeli bulldozers demolished 4 houses and an agricultural caravan in al-Waljah village, west of Bethlehem under the pretext of non-licensing, displacing 32 persons.

As part of the Israeli settlers’ attacks against Palestinian civilians and their property, on 01 September 2018, a group of settlers damaged 20 fruitful olive trees planted 60 and 70 years ago in Buri village, southeast of Nablus. On the same day, a group of settlers attacked with stones a house belonging to Bashir Hamzah Zeben in the northern side of the village and a car travelled by 4 Palestinians, including a girl. As a result, the front window of the car was broken and the 4 civilians were wounded due to the scattering glass. On 03 September 2018, the residents of southern Bita village, southeast of Nablus, were surprised with sprayed-printed slogans in Hebrew on the walls of an under-construction house and on 4 cars in addition to slashing their tires.

Details

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

Thursday, 30 August 2018:

At approximately 01:30, Israeli forces moved into Tubas. They raided and searched a house belonging to Wesam Majeed Sawaftah (45) and then arrested him.

Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into al-Khader village, south of Bethlehem and stationed in al-Jame’a al-Kabir Mosque. They raided and searched a house belonging to Sharif Mohammed Sbaih (20) and then arrested him.

At approximately 01:50, Israeli forces moved into Qalqiliyah. They raided and searched a number of houses after which they arrested 3 civilians namely Amir Bassam Abu Shareb (30), Ahmed Mazen Shalash (25) and Husam Hatem Abu Lebdah (35). At approximately 19:00 on the same day, the Israeli forces released them.

At approximately 02:30, Israeli forces moved into ‘Aqabah refugee camp, south of Jericho. They raided and searched a number of houses and then arrested Emad Abdul Karim Abu Zenah (19) and Salah Mohammed Batanjah (24).

Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Deir Samet village, southwest of Dura, southwest of Hebron and stationed in al-Semiya neighborhood. They raided and searched a house belonging to Ismail Hasan al-Haroub (65) and then arrested him.

At approximately 03:20, Israeli forces moved into Noor Shams refugee camp, east of Tulkarm. They raided and searched several houses after which they arrested Mohammed ‘Aqel Jaber Zandiq (22), Mohammed Walid Khader Jaber Zandiq (18) and Mahmoud Kamal Jaber Zandiq (22). On the same day morning, the Israeli forces released them.

At approximately 03:30, Israeli forces moved into Beit Fajjar village, south of Bethlehem. They raided and searched a number of houses and then arrested Khalid Mohammed Taqatqa (17) and Sanad Majed Taqatqa (16) .

At approximately 06:20, Israeli forces moved into Eskaka village, east of Salfit. They raided and searched a house belonging to Husam Anis Yusuf Harb (58) and then arrested him. It should be noted that Husam is a Leader at Hamas Movement in Salfit.

Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Qarawet Bani Hassan village, northwest of Salfit. They raided and searched a house belonging to Mohammed ‘Aziz Mohammed Mar’ie (40) and then arrested him.

At approximately 17:00, Israeli gunboats stationed offshore, adjacent to al-Sudaniyah area in the northern Gaza Strip, and pumped water at a Palestinian fishing boat belonging to Nafeth Salah from Gaza City. The boat was sailing within 3 nautical miles and manned by Ahmed Nafeth Salah and his brother Mesbah. As a result, the boat sank, but the 2 fishermen survived. Following that, the fishermen searched for the boat and found it at approximately 23:00, as it was on an area within 3.5 nautical miles adjacent to Gaza Seaport.

At approximately 06:30, Israeli gunboats stationed offshore, adjacent to al-Sudaniyah area, west of Jabalia in the northern Gaza Strip, sporadically opened fire and chased Palestinian fishing boats sailing within 4 nautical miles. The shooting continued until approximately 06:45 on the same day. As a result, the fishermen were forced to flee fearing for their lives, but neither casualties nor material damage was reported.

Around the same time, Israeli gunboats stationed offshore, adjacent to former al-Waha Resort, northwest of Beit Lahia in the northern Gaza Strip, heavily opened fire at Palestinian fishing boats sailing within 3 nautical miles. As a result, the fishermen were forced to flee fearing for their lives, but neither casualties nor material damage was reported.

At approximately 07:30, Israeli gunboats stationed offshore, adjacent to al-Sudaniyah area, west of Jabalia in the northern Gaza Strip, heavily opened fire, fired a number of artillery shells and chased Palestinian fishing boats sailing within 4 nautical miles. As a result, the fishermen were forced to flee fearing for their lives, but neither casualties nor material damage was reported.

Note: During the aforementioned day, Israeli forces conducted (7) incursions in the following areas and no arrests were reported: Sebastia village, northwest of Nablus; Safarin village, southeast of Tulkarm; ‘Azzoun and Hejjah villages, east of Qalqiliyah; Bedia village, west of Salfit; al-Burj and al-Thaheriyah villages in Hebron.

Friday, 31 August 2018

At approximately 03:00, Israeli forces moved into Qalqiliyah. They raided and searched a house belonging to Amir Bassam Abu Shareb (30) and then arrested him. It should be noted that the Israeli forces arrested Amir on Thursday at dawn, 30 August 2018, and then released him in the evening hours.

At approximately 06:40, Israeli gunboats stationed offshore, adjacent to al-Sudaniyah area, west of Jabalia in the northern Gaza Strip, heavily opened fire and chased Palestinian boats sailing within 4 nautical miles. As a result, the fishermen were forced to flee fearing for their lives.

Note: During the aforementioned day, Israeli forces conducted (9) incursions in the following areas and no arrests were reported: ‘Azzoun, Hejjah, Jensafout, Baget al-Hatab and Kufor Laqef villages, east of Qalqiliyah; Yasouf village, east of Salfit; Hebron, Beit Kahel and al-Fawar refugee camp.

Saturday, 01 September 2018:

At approximately 14:00, a number of Palestinian young men and children gathered and threw stones at Israeli soldiers stationed at Checkpoint (160) established at the eastern entrance to Hebron’s Old City. The soldiers chased the stone-throwers and fired sound bombs and tear gas canisters at them. As a result, a number of civilians suffered tear gas inhalation. The Israeli forces also arrested 4 civilians namely Mos’ab Mohammed Sharif (15), Mahmoud Eyad Ghanem (19), Feras Fares Iskafi (17), Mohammed Mahmoud D’ais (14), and ‘Obaidah ‘Ali Abu ‘Aishah (16) and then took them to the investigation center in “Kiryat Arba” settlement, east of Hebron. The Israeli forces later released them and handed them to the Palestinian Military Liaison at checkpoint (56).

At approximately 22:15, Israeli gunboats stationed offshore, adjacent to Deir al-Balah shore, chased a Palestinian fishing boat belonging to Mohammed Sa’ed Abu Riyalah. The boat was sailing within 8 nautical miles ad manned by 6 fishermen. The Israeli gunboats surrounded the fishing boat and then arrested the 6 fishermen namely Zaki Ibrahim al-Najjar (36), Ahmed Sa’ed Abu Riyalah (29), Mahmoud jihad Abu ‘Oudah (31), Mohammed jihad Abu ‘Oudah (42), Jihad Mohammed Abu ‘Oudah (21) and Mohammed Bahjat Abu ‘Oudah (26).

Note: During the aforementioned day, Israeli forces conducted (6) incursions in the following areas and no arrests were reported: Tulkarm and ‘Alar villages, north of Tulkarm; al-Thaheriyah, Abu al-‘Asja, Deir Razeh villages and al-‘Aroub refugee camp in Hebron.

Sunday, 02 September 2018

At approximately 02:00, Israeli forces moved into Beit Fajjar village, south of Bethlehem. They raided and searched a number of houses and then arrested Hani Abdullah Taqatqa (18) and Ahmed Samih Taqatqa (22).

Note: During the aforementioned day, Israeli forces conducted (12) incursions in the following areas and no arrests were reported: Zeta and Saida village, northeast of Tulkarm; ‘Azzoun village, east of Qalqiliyah; Hebron; Sa’ir, Beit Ummer villages and Yatta in Hebron; Nazlet ‘essa, Nazlet Abu al-Nar, Nazlet al-Sharqiyah and Baqa al-Sharqiyah villages in Tulkarm.

Monday, 03 September 2018:

At approximately 01:30, Israeli forces moved into Qalqiliyah. They raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Mo’ath Mohsen Shreim “Hardan” (17) and then arrested him.

At approximately 02:00, Israeli forces moved into Jenin refugee camp, west of Jenin. They raided and searched a house belonging to Khalid Saleh Husein Abu Zenah (58) and then arrested him. It should be noted that Khalid is a Leader at the Islamic Jihad Movement in Jenin.

Around the same time, Israeli forces accompanied with several military vehicles moved into Hebron and stationed in the northern area of Hebron. They raided and searched a house belonging to Amin Shafiq al-Qawasma (31) and then arrested him.

At approximately 02:30, a large Israeli force moved into al-‘Ezza refugee camp, north of Bethlehem. They raided and searched dozens of houses. One of these houses is in the center of the camp and belongs to Hamzah Qaraqe’a. The family said to PCHR’s fieldworker that some of the Israeli soldiers who raided the house were masked while faces of others were covered with black paint and carrying tools such as pry bars and sledge hammers. They blew up the main entrance to the house and entered accompanied with a police dog. They then searched the house and damaged the contents, including breaking the kitchen cupboards and destroying the floor tiles and water lines in the bathroom. As a result, the waterlines exploded and the house was drowned with water. Those practices occurred without any explanation from the Israeli soldiers to the family. About half an hour later, the Israeli soldiers withdrew from the house after causing severe damage to the house. Moreover, the Israeli soldiers raided and searched a house belonging to prisoner Mohammed Fo’ad al-‘Adween, who was sentenced with an actual imprisonment for 18 years. The soldiers caused damage to the house contents as they vindictively threw some of the kitchen furniture outside the house and destroyed the floor tiles. The residents’ stated that the Israeli forces intended to damage and destroy the house and not as they claim to search it. According to eyewitnesses’ statement, Israeli forces raided many houses belonging to Da’darah and Ya’qoub families in the abovementioned camp, where many young men were questioned on the spot. Two of those questioned were later identified as Mo’taz and Hasan Qaraqe’a. Moreover, The Israeli forces handed summonses to Loa’i Ibrahim Da’darah (21) and Mahmoud Ya’qoub (23) to refer to the Israeli Intelligence Service. During the incursion, dozens of civilians fainted due to tear gas inhalation as the Israeli forces fired tear gas canisters at the houses of the camp. The Israeli forces prevented the PRCS ambulances to reach the camp and provide medical treatment for those civilians. Clashes erupted on the camp’s streets and alleys, where dozens of young men threw stones, empty bottles and Molotov Cocktails at the Israeli soldiers who heavily fired rubber-coated metal bullets and tear gas canisters.

At approximately 03:30, an Israeli force, accompanied with military vehicles, moved into Noor Shams refugee camp in Tulkarm and patrolled the streets. They raided and searched a house belonging Ahmed Marwan Shihab (22) and then arrested him.

At approximately 06:55, Israeli gunboats stationed offshore, adjacent to al-Sudaniyah area, west of Jabalia in the northern Gaza Strip, heavily opened fire and chased Palestinian fishing boats sailing within 4 nautical miles. As a result, the fishermen were forced to flee fearing for their lives, but neither casualties nor material damage was reported.

At approximately 18:00, Israeli forces stationed at the entrance to “Giv’at Hafot” settlement outpost established on civilians’ confiscated lands, east of Hebron, opened fire at Wa’el Abdul Fattah Abdul Gani al-Ja’bari (36), from “al-Muhawal” neighborhood, east of Hebron, which is classified as Area (H2) under the Israeli control. As a result, Wa’el immediately died. The Israeli forces claimed that Wa’el attempted to carry out a stabbing attack. They transferred him via a military vehicle to unknown destination, closed the area and then prevented civilians from gathering in the area.

It should be noted that Wa’el is married and live in the area mentioned above, which is 100 meters away from the shooting incident. Civilians pass through an iron gate to the area, which is the same that Israeli soldiers and settlers pass through. It should be noted that a military watchtower is established near the gate. Moreover, no eyewitness was in the scene to confirm or denies the Israeli forces’ claims.

At approximately 22:00, Israeli gunboats stationed offshore, adjacent to al-Sudaniyah area, west of Jabalia in the northern Gaza Strip, heavily opened fire and chased Palestinian fishing boats sailing within 4 nautical miles. As a result, the fishermen were forced to flee fearing for their lives, but neither casualties nor material damage was reported.

Note: During the aforementioned day, Israeli forces conducted (9) incursions in the following areas and no arrests were reported: ‘Azzoun village, east of Qalqiliyah; Dura, Karza, Beit Kahel villages and Halhoul in Hebron; Hejjah, Eskaka and Yasouf villages in Salfit and Qalqiliyah.

Tuesday, 04 September 2018:

At approximately 01:00, an Israeli force accompanied with 4 military vehicles moved into Abu al-Saja village, southeast of Dura, southwest of Hebron and stationed in al-Masjed neighborhood. They raided and searched a house belonging to Ahmed Mahmoud Abu Sundos (43) and then arrested him and took him to the place where military vehicles were stationed. After that, the Israeli forces patrolled towards Khelet al-‘Aqed area. They raided and searched a house belonging to ‘Ayed Mohammed Slema Dudin (46) and then arrested him. At approximately 03:00, the Israeli force withdrew from the abovementioned village.

At approximately 02:00, Israeli forces moved into Nablus. They raided and searched a number of houses after which they arrested ‘Emad husni al-‘Amoudi (58) from his house on Kashikah Street in Ras al-‘Ain neighborhood, and Ahmed Rashid Ghassan Marmash (30) from his house in the city.

Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Balata refugee camp, east of Nablus. They raided and searched a number of houses and then arrested Islam (18) and Yusuf Abdul Karim Yusuf Hashash (20).

At approximately 02:30, an Israeli force accompanied with military vehicles moved into Tulkarm and patrolled the city streets. They raided and searched houses belonging to Mohammed Ahmed Qasem Sa’adah (21), Abdul Hakim Mohammed Shaker Hamdan (52) and Ra’fat Jamil Abdul Rahman Nasif (54), all are from the southern neighborhood of the city, and then arrested them.

Around the same time, an Israeli force accompanied with a number of military vehicles moved into Dura and stationed in east of Sangar neighborhood. They raided and searched a house belonging to Yusuf Nassar ‘Asar (44) and then arrested him. They also confiscated his vehicle and handed the family a decision to confiscate the vehicle claiming that its used in terrorist actions.

Around the same time, an Israeli force accompanied with a number of military vehicles moved into Tawas village, west of Dura, southwest of Hebron. They patrolled between houses, causing fear among residents and children. the Israeli forces then raided and searched a house belonging to Mohammed Ismail Abu ‘Arqoub (49). The soldiers locked the family members in one room and after half an hour, they arrested Mohammed.

At approximately 05:00, an Israeli force accompanied with several military vehicles moved into Bani Na’im village, east of Hebron, stationed in the western neighborhood of the village and then patrolled between houses. They raided and searched a house belonging to Mobarak ‘Allan Zedat (39) and then arrested him.

At approximately 06:20, Israeli gunboats stationed offshore, adjacent to al-Waha former shore, northwest of Beit Lahia in the northern Gaza Strip, heavily opened fire at Palestinian fishing boats sailing within 3 nautical miles. The shooting continued until approximately 06:45 on the same day. As a result, the fishermen were forced to flee fearing for their lives, but neither casualties nor material damage was reported.

At approximately 20:00, Israeli forces accompanied with 10 military vehicles moved into Ras Karkar village, west of Ramallah after a group of Israeli settlers raided agricultural lands belonging to Palestinian civilians in “al-Resan” Mount area, west of Ras Karkar village, west of Ramallah, in an attempt to seize these lands. A number of civilians gathered, set fire to tires and threw stones and empty bottles at Israeli soldiers. The soldiers fired rubber-coated metal bullets, sound bombs and tear gas canisters at them. As a result, 2 journalists were wounded while on duty covering the Israeli forces’ violations against Palestinian civilians. The wounded journalists were taken via a PRCS ambulance to Palestine Medical Complex and doctors classified their injuries as minor. The 2 wounded journalists were identified as:

‘Isam Najeh al-Remawi (33), a photojournalist at Anadolu Agency, was hit with a rubber bullet to the right foot.
‘Abbas al-Mo’meni (29), a photojournalist at French News Agency, was hit with a rubber bullet to the foot.

Note: During the aforementioned day, Israeli forces conducted (10) incursions in the following areas and no arrests were reported: Tulkarm, Far’oun, Beit Led and Safarin villages in Tulkarm; Far’ata and Ematin villages in Qalqiliyah; Dura, Hebron; Deir Samet and Taffuh villages in Hebron.

Wednesday, 05 September 2018:

At approximately 12:00, Israeli forces accompanied with a number of military vehicles moved into Kufor Qaddoum village, northeast of Qalqiliyah. The soldiers patrolled the streets amidst firing sound bombs and tear gas canisters claiming they were stoned when they raided several houses. The Israeli forces withdrew later from the village and no arrests were reported.

At approximately 01:30, Israeli forces accompanied with a number of military vehicles moved into ‘Anabta village, east of Tulkarm and patrolled the streets. They raided and searched a house belonging to Tayseer Abdul Qader Najjar (60) and then arrested him and his son ‘Emad (30).

Around the same time, an Israeli forces accompanied with several military vehicles moved into Abu Suneinah neighborhood in the southern area in Hebron and stationed in the center of the neighborhood. The soldiers deployed between houses and patrolled the streets, causing fear among residents and children. they raided and searched 3 houses after which they arrested Zeyad Mohammed ‘Ali Abu Husein (35), his brother Husein (33) and Mohammed Anwar Abu Husein (26).

At approximately 03:00, an Israeli force accompanied with a number of military vehicles moved into Sa’ir village, east of Hebron and stationed in al-Dowarah and Kawazbah neighborhoods. The soldiers deployed between houses. They then raided and searched 2 houses and then arrested Ayman Abdul Salam Jaradat (30) and Ra’fat Yusuf Za’al Shalaldah (28).

Note: During the aforementioned day, Israeli forces conducted (4) incursions in the following areas and no arrests were reported: Ethna, al-Shuyoukh, Beit Kahel and Surif villages in Hebron.

Use of Force against Demonstrations in Protest against the U.S. President’s Decision to Recognize Jerusalem as the Capital of Israel:

Israeli forces continued its excessive use of lethal force against peaceful demonstration organized by Palestinian civilians in in the West Bank and Gaza Strip, and it was named as “The Great March of Return and Breaking Siege.” The demonstration was in protest against the U.S. President Donald Trump’s declaration to move the U.S. Embassy to it. The demonstration was as follows during the reporting period:

Gaza Strip:

At approximately 16:00 on Friday, 31 August 2018, hundreds of Palestinian civilians swarmed to the Return encampments established by the Supreme National Authority for the Great March of Return, east of Abu Safiyah Hill, northeast of Jabalia in the northern Gaza Strip. The protestors raised Palestinian flags, chanted national slogans and set fire to tires. Dozens of them approached the border fence between the Gaza Strip and Israel and threw stones at Israeli soldiers stationed behind the border fence. The Israeli forces deliberately and randomly fired live and rubber bullets and tear gas canisters at them. The clashes continued until approximately 20:00 on the same day. As a result, 18 civilians, including 5 children and a paramedic, were wounded. Twelve of them were hit with live bullets and its shrapnel and 6 were hit with tear gas canisters. The wounded civilians were transferred via ambulances belonging to Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS), Medical Services, and the Ministry of Health to the Indonesian and al-‘Awda Hospitals. Doctors classified 3 civilians’ injuries as serious. The wounded paramedic was identified as Mo’een Ibrahim Abdullah al-Masri (42), from Beit Hanoun and works at PRCS. He was hit with a tear gas canister at the back side of the right waist. At approximately 19:10, Israeli forces fired a number of tear gas canisters at the protestors. A PRCS ambulance was hit with a tear gas canister to the rear window, smashing it completely. It should be noted that the al-Masri was inside the targeted ambulance.

Around the same time, hundreds of civilians swarmed to the Return encampment, east of Khuza’ah village, east of Khan Younis, to participate in the demonstrations established by the Supreme National Authority for the Great March of Return and Breaking Siege. They chanted national slogans and flew kites and balloons as dozens of them, including women and children, approached the border fence between the Gaza Strip and Israel and set fire. A number of them attempted to throw stones at Israeli forces. The Israeli snipers stationed behind sand barriers along the border fence deliberately and selectively targeted the participants, who were about 300 meters away from the border fence. Tear gas canisters were heavily fired by the Israeli soldiers stationed in military vehicles and by a drone hovering over the sky of the area. The clashes continued until approximately 19:30 on the same day. As a result, 13 civilians, including a child, were wounded. Two of them were hit with live bullets and 11 were hit with tear gas canisters. The wounded civilians were transferred to Nasser, Gaza European and Algerian Hospitals.

Around the same time, hundreds of civilians swarmed to the Return encampments established by the Supreme National Authority for the Great March of Return and Breaking Siege, 400 meters away from the border fence between the Gaza Strip and Israel, east of al-Buraij in the central Gaza Strip. Dozens of them approached the border fence, set fire to tires and threw stones at Israeli soldiers stationed behind sand barriers along the border fence. The Israeli forces fired live bullets and tear gas canisters at the participants. The clashes continued until approximately 19:30 on the same day. As a result, 11 civilians, including 4 children, were hit with live bullets and its shrapnel. The wounded civilians were taken to al-Aqsa Hospital in Deir al-Balah. One of the children sustained serious wounds and he was admitted to the operation room as soon as he arrived at the hospital. The child then was transferred to al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza City. Moreover, doctors classified the injuries of other civilians between minor and moderate.

Around the same time, hundreds of civilians swarmed to the Return encampment, east of Khuza’ah village, east of Khan Younis, to participate in the demonstrations established by the Supreme National Authority for the Great March of Return and Breaking Siege. They chanted national slogans and flew kites and balloons as dozens of them, including women and children, approached the border fence between the Gaza Strip and Israel and set fire. A number of them attempted to throw stones at Israeli forces. The Israeli snipers stationed behind sand barriers along the border fence deliberately and selectively targeted the participants, who were about 300 meters away from the border fence. Tear gas canisters were heavily fired by the Israeli soldiers stationed in military vehicles. The shooting continued until approximately 19:30 on the same day. As a result, 13 civilians, including a child and a volunteer paramedic, were wounded. Two of them were hit with live bullets and 11 were hit with tear gas canisters. The wounded civilians were taken to the field hospital and then transferred to Nasser, Gaza and Algerian Hospitals.

At approximately 17:00, thousands of Palestinian civilians swarmed to the Return encampments established by the Supreme National Authority for the Great March of Return and Breaking Siege, east of al-Shawkah village, east of Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip. A number of young men approached the border fence between the Gaza Strip and Israel, flew kites, set fire to tires and threw stones at Israeli soldiers stationed behind sand barriers along the border fence. The soldiers fired live bullets at them. The clashes continued until approximately 19:00 on the same day. As a result, 17 civilians, including 4 children and a paramedic, were hit with live bullets and its shrapnel. The wounded paramedic identified as Shurouq Fawzi ‘Ali Abu Husein (Abu Mosameh) (21), a volunteer paramedic from Khan Younis, was hit with a live bullet that entered the chest and exited the back at approximately 17:45. Shurouq, was wearing a white coat defining the nature of her medical work and standing near a PRCS ambulance, which was about 300 meters into the west of the border fence. Shurouq was taken via a PRCS ambulance to Abu Yusuf al-Najjar Hospital in Rafah and then transferred to Gaza European Hospital in Khan Younis. Shurouq underwent a surgery and then admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) due to her serious health condition. Moreover, Mohammed Samih Hasan Abu Sultan (21), a reporter at “Rowad Al-Haqiqa” Network, was hit with alive bullet to the lower limbs. The wounded civilians were taken to the medical point in the Return encampment and then transferred to Abu Yusuf al-Najjar Hospital in Rafah and Gaza European hospital in Khan Younis. Doctors classified 4 civilians’ injuries as serious. Dozens further suffered tear gas inhalation and seizers after tear gas canisters were fired by Israeli forces stationed in military vehicles, rifles and drones hovering over the protesters.

Ashraf Mousa Jom’ah al-Wawi (38), a paramedic at PRCS in Rafah, from al-Brazil neighborhood, south of Rafah, said to PCHR’s fieldworker that at approximately 16:30 on Friday, 31 August 2018, he headed to the border fence between the Gaza Strip and Israel, east of al-Shawkah village, east of Rafah, to practice his work in offering medical treatment in the March of Return and Breaking Siege activities along with his colleague and the ambulance driver ‘Adel Qeshtah. At approximately 17:45, while Ashraf was in the southern area of the Return encampment on Jaker Street, 300 meters into the west of the border fence, he saw a volunteer paramedic wearing a white coat on the ground as she was about 2 meters near the ambulance. Ashraf headed towards her and noticed blood on her chest and back. Ashraf and his colleague carried her and put her on a litter and moved her to the ambulance. They then offered her first aid and then took her to the medical point in the Return encampment. The paramedic was conscious and informed the ambulance crew that she is a volunteer paramedic and her name is Shurouq Fawzi Abu Moshameh from Khan Younis. After that the paramedic ‘Adel Qeshtah called for doctor ‘Atef al-Hout (Director of Abu Yusuf a-Najjar Hospital and Chairman of the Emergency Committee in the Ministry of Health in Rafah) to examine the health condition of Shurouq. After medical examination, Doctor ‘Atef asked the ambulance staffers not to take her to the medical point and escorted her to Abu Yusuf al-Najjar Hospital in Rafah due to her serious health condition.

At approximately 18:00 on Sunday, 02 September 2018, Israeli forces stationed along the coastline, northwest of al-Sifa area, northwest of Beit Lahia in the northern Gaza Strip, opened fire at dozens of Palestinian civilians, who participated in an activity organized offshore to support another one that was organized on the sea. Dozens of Palestinian fishing boats moved from Gaza Seaport to the northern border water between the Gaza Strip and Israel, demanding to lift the closure imposed on the Gaza Strip upon an invitation from the Supreme National Authority for the Great March of Return and Breaking Siege. As a result, a 19-year-old civilian from Bei al-Na’jah area in Jabalia was hit with a live bullet to the right leg during his participation in the activity offshore as he was few meters away from the border fence with Israel. The wounded civilian was taken via an ambulance belonging to Military medical Services to the Indonesian Hospital in Jabalia. Doctors classified his injury as moderate.

At approximately 14:00 on Monday, 03 September 2018, Israeli forces stationed behind the border fence with Israel, adjacent to the Return encampment, east of Khuza’ah village, east of Khan Younis, fired live bullets at a group of Palestinian young men, who protested in the area and approached the security fence. As a result, a 20-year-old civilian was hit with a live bullet to the right side of his body. He was admitted to Gaza European Hospital and doctors classified injury as moderate.

At approximately 17:30 on Tuesday, 04 September 2018, Israeli forces stationed in military watchtowers, which are located at Beit Hanoun “Erez” crossing, northwest of Beit Hanoun in the northern Gaza Strip, heavily opened fire and fired live bullets and sound bombs at dozens of civilians who were on the road leading to the vehicles gate at the abovementioned crossing. The civilians set fire to tires and threw stones at Israeli soldiers upon calls from national factions to participate in an activity titles: “Together to Protect Refugees’ Rights”, which was decided to be held at Beit Hanoun “Erez” crossing, condemning the American policy against the cause of Palestinian refugees. As a result, 17 civilians, including 7 children, were wounded. Fourteen of them, including 5 children, were hit with live bullets and its shrapnel and 3 others, including 2 children, were hit with tear gas canisters. The wounded civilians were hit with ambulances belonging to PRCS, Medical Services, and the Ministry of Helath to the Indonesian ad al-Awda Hospitals. Doctors classified 2 civilians’ injuries as serious while the other civilians’ injuries were between minor and moderate. The clashes continued until approximately 19:30 on the same day. Moreover, medical staffers offered medical treatment to dozens of civilians, particularly those who suffered tear gas inhalation.

West Bank:

At approximately 13:30 on Thursday, 30 August 2018, dozens of Palestinian civilians, international human rights defenders and Minister Walid ‘Assaf, Director of the Wall and Settlement Resistance Committee, gathered on agricultural lands of al-Resan Mount area, west of Ras Karkar village, west of Ramallah in protest against the Israeli settlers’ attempt to seize the land. Israeli soldiers stationed in the abovementioned area fired tear gas canisters, so the protestors threw stones at them. the Israeli forces then fired live and rubber bullets, sound bombs and tear gas canisters at them. As a result, Minister Walid ‘Assaf was hit with a rubber bullet to the right ear, a 30-year-old civilian was hit with a rubber bullet to the right hand and a 28-year-old civilian sustained a rubber bullet wound to the foot. The wounded civilians were taken via APRCS ambulance to Palestine Medical Complex in Ramallah to received medical treatment. Doctors classified their injuries as minor. Moreover, 30 civilians, including 4 children, suffered tear gas inhalation.

Following the Friday Prayer on 31 August 2018, dozens of Palestinian civilians and international human rights defenders gathered on agricultural lands of al-Resan Mount area, west of Ras Karkar village, west of Ramallah in protest against the Israeli settlers’ attempt to seize the land. Israeli soldiers stationed in the abovementioned area fired tear gas canisters, so the protestors threw stones at them. the Israeli forces then fired live and rubber bullets, sound bombs and tear gas canisters at them. As a result, a 24-year-old civilian was hit with a rubber bullet to the right hand, a 22-year-old civilian was hit with a rubber bullet to the left leg and a 25-year-old civilian was hit with a rubber bullet to the foot. The wounded civilians were taken via a PRCS ambulance to Palestine Medical Complex to receive medical treatment. Doctors classified their injuries between minor and moderate.

Around the same time, dozens of Palestinian civilians and international and Israeli human rights defenders organized peaceful demonstrations in protests against the annexation wall and settlement activity in Ni’lin and Bil’in villages, west of Ramallah. Israeli forces used force to disperse the protestors by firing live and rubber bullets, sound bombs and tear gas canisters at them. They also chased them into olive fields and between houses. As a result, a 12-year-old civilian from Bil’in village was hit with sound bomb shrapnel to the head. He was taken via a PRCS ambulance to Palestine Medical Complex in Ramallah to receive medical treatment. Doctors classified his injury as moderate.

At approximately 17:00 on Saturday, 01 September 2018, a group of Palestinian civilians moved from the center of Kufor Qaddoum village, northeast of Qalqiliyah, to the eastern entrance to the village, which has been closed for 15 years in favor of the entrance to “Kedumim” settlement. The protestors chanted national slogans demanding to end the occupation and condemning the Israeli forces’ crimes against Palestinian protestors along the eastern border of the Gaza Strip within “The Great March of Return and Breaking the Siege” activities. The protestors threw stones at Israeli soldiers stationed behind sand barriers. The soldiers fired rubber bullets, sound bombs and tear gas canisters at them. As a result, Mo’men Morad Eshtiwi (8) was hit with a rubber bullet to the head.

At approximately 11:00 on Tuesday, 04 September 2018, the Palestinian Broadcasting Corporation (PBC) and the Palestinian Journalists Syndicate (PJS) organized a peaceful demonstration in solidarity with ‘Ali Dar ‘Ali, a journalist at Palestine TV Channel, who is arrested by Israeli forces since 15 August 2018. They headed to the vicinity of the intersection of “Ofer” military camp established on the lands of Betunia and Rafat villages, west of Ramallah. When the demonstrators approached the area, the Israeli forces fired live and rubber bullets, sound bombs and tear gas canisters at them. as a result, a number of journalists suffered tear gas inhalation.

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.

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.

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. However, they lately allowed the exportation of some vegetables such as cucumber and tomatoes, furniture and fish.

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 also continued applying the policy of making certain civilian traveling via the crossing interviewed by the Israeli intelligence service to be questioned, blackmailed or arrested.

Movement at Karm Abu Salem (Kerem Shalom) crossing, southeast of Rafah, is designated for the movement of goods

Note: Due to technical reasons, we could not obtain the official statistics from the department responsible for issuing the statistics

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.

Note: Due to peaceful protests organized near Erez Crossing against the American policy towards the Palestinian refugees, we could not obtain the official statistics from the relevant department

Closure on the West Bank. During the reporting period, Israeli forces imposed additional restrictions on the movement of Palestinian civilians:

Ramallah and al-Beirh: Israeli forces established (12) all over the City.

At approximately 20:30 on Thursday, 30 August 2018, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the main entrance to ‘Aboud village, northwest of Ramallah.

At approximately 22:20, a similar checkpoint was established at the main entrance to ‘Ain Yabroud village, northeast of the city.

On Sunday, 02 September 2018, Israeli forces established 3 checkpoints at the main entrance to Ras Karkar village, west of Ramallah; at the main entrance to Senjil village, northeast of Ramallah; and at the entrance to ‘Aboud village, northwest of Ramallah. They then searched Palestinian civilians’ vehicles and checked their IDs. The abovementioned checkpoints were removed and no arrests were reported.

On Monday, 03 September 2018, Israeli forces established 5 checkpoints at the main entrance to Ras Karkar village, west of Ramallah; at the main entrance to ‘Ain Yabroud village, northeast of Ramallah; at the entrance to Ni’lin village, west of Ramallah; at the main entrance to al-Jalazoun refugee camp, north of Ramallah; and at the entrance to Silwad village, northeast of Ramallah. The abovementioned checkpoints were removed and no arrests were reported.

On 04 September 2018, Israeli forces established 2 checkpoints at the main entrance to Ras Karkar village, west of Ramallah and at the entrance to al-Nabi Saleh village, northwest of Ramallah. They then searched Palestinian civilians’ vehicles and checked their IDs. The abovementioned checkpoints were removed and no arrests were reported.

Hebron: Israeli forces established (22) checkpoints all over the city.

On Thursday, 30 August 2018, Israeli forces established 4 checkpoints at the entrances to Bani Na’iem, Sa’ir, Beit ‘Awaa, and al-Koum villages.

On Friday, 31 August 2018, 3 similar checkpoints were established at the entrances to Hebron, Samou’a and Raboud villages.

On Saturday, 01 September 2018, Israeli forces established 3 checkpoints at the entrance to al-‘Aroub refugee camp and at the entrances to al-Shayyoukh and Beit Ummer villages.

On Sunday, 02 September 2018, Israeli forces established 4 checkpoints at the entrance to al-Fawar refugee camp; at the eastern entrance to Dura village; on Janbah Road, southeast of Yatta; and at the entrance to Karma village. No arrests among civilians were reported.

On Monday, Israeli forces established 2 checkpoints at the entrances to Samou’a and Taramah villages.

On Tuesday, 04 September 2018, Israeli forces established 4 checkpoints at the entrance to al-‘Aroub refugee camp, at the southern entrance to Hebron, at the entrance to al-Fawar refugee camp, and at the entrance to Beit Ola village.

On Wednesday, 05 September 2018, Israeli forces established 2 checkpoints at the entrance to Shayyoukh and Beit Ummer villages.

Bethlehem:

On Monday, 03 September 2018, Israeli forces established a large iron gate at the main entrance to Taqou’a village, east of Behtlehem. Taqou’a village’s activists said that the Israeli forces close the western entrance to the village at any time they want, clarifying that this entrance is the only outlet for around 15 thousand people. The village’s activists confirmed that this measure is part of the collective punishment policy and shows how the Israeli forces are racial. As a result, the movement of the village’s residents was obstructed under the pretext of throwing stones at Israeli settlers.

Qalqiliyia: Israeli forces established (3) checkpoints all over the city.

At approximately 20:15 on Thursday, 30 August 2018, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the intersection of Sir village, north of Qalqiliyia.

On Sunday, 02 September 2018, Israeli forces established 2 checkpoints at the entrance to ‘Izbit al-Tabeeb village and at the eastern entrance to Qalqiliyia. The abovementioned checkpoints were removed and no arrests were reported.

Salfit: Israeli forces established (6) checkpoints all over the city.

At approximately 20:00 on Thursday, 30 August 2018, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the western entrance to Dirsityia village, northwest of Salfit.

At approximately 18:40 on Friday, 31 August 2018, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the entrance to Kaful Hares village.

At approximately 19:00, a similar checkpoint was established at the entrance to Mardah village, north of Salfit.

On Sunday, 02 September 2018, Israeli forces established 3 checkpoints on the main street of Qarawet Bani Hassan village, northwest of Salfit; at the northern entrance to Dir Balout village, west of Slafit; and at the entrance to Burqeen village, west of Slafit. The abovementioned checkpoints were removed and no arrests were reported.

Tulkarm:

At approximately 19:55 on Thursday, 30 August 2018, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the entrance to Qufeen village, north of Tulkarm.

At approximately 15:40 on Monday, 03 September 2018, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the entrance to Rameen village, southeast of Tulkarm.

Arrests at Military Checkpoints:

At approximately 10:30 on Thursday, 30 August 2018, Israeli forces stationed in front of Salem Military Court’s Gate, west of Jenin, arrested Ahmed Ameen Barakat (18) and Mahmoud Najeh al-Sa’di (18). Both of them are from Jenin. The Israeli forces claimed that they found homemade grenades with them.

At approximately 15:00 on Thursday, Israeli forces stationed at a military checkpoint established at the northern entrance to Ethna village, west of Hebron, arrested Ahmed Mohamed Deib al-Horoub (38), after stopping a vehicle carrying them.

At approximately 14:00 on Friday, 31 August 2018, Israeli Border Guard officers arrested ‘Ali Sa’ied Junaid (17), from Hebron’s Old City. ‘Ali was arrested after stopping him at Abu al-Rish checkpoint and was then taken to an investigation centre in the Old City. ‘Ali was later released.

At approximately 13:30 on Monday, 03 September 2018, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the northern entrance to ’Azoun village, east of Qalqiliyia. They then searched Palestinian civilians’ vehicles, checked their IDs and then arrested Sameh Shehab Tamli (22) and Hamed Harsh Nazzal (22). Both of them are from Qalqiliyia. The Israeli forces took Sameh and Hamed to an investigation centre, where they released Hamed after detaining him from 24 hours, while Smaeh is so far under arrest.

At approximately 20:30, Israeli forces established a checkpoint on the American University Road, east of Jenin. They stopped Palestinian civilians’ vehicles, checked the passengers’ IDs and then arrested ‘Abed al-Rahmen Qasem al-Sa’di (27), from Jenin.

Efforts to Create A Jewish majority

Israeli forces escalated their attacks on Palestinian civilians and their property. They have also continued their raids on al-Aqsa Mosque and denied the Palestinians access to it:

Arrests and Incursions:

On Thursday, 30 August 2018, Israeli forces arrested Nizam Abu Romouz (37), while attempting to enter al-Aqsa Mosque in occupied East Jerusalem’s Old City, and then took him to a Police Station in al-Asbat (Lion’s) Gate, where he was severely beaten. As a result, Nizam sustained wounds and bruises throughout his body. Nizam said that the Israeli forces arrested him without any reasons after preventing him from entering the al-Aqsa Mosque and then took him to a police station. When Nizam arrived at the police station, he was handcuffed and then severely beaten by the Israeli forces without any reason. Nizam said that despite sustaining wounds throughout his body and his inability to walk, he was taken to al-Qashlah Police Station and then to Hadassah Hospital. Nizam added that he was arrested until Thursday evening, pointing out he sustained wounds to his face and received 8 stitches, in addition to other wounds around his eye. He added that the Israeli police released him after handing him a summons to refer to investigation on the next day. It should be noted that the Israeli forces have prevented Nizam from entering the al-Aqsa Mosque since 3 years after putting his name in the black list, which includes dozens of Palestinians prevented from entering the mosque, especially during the al-Aqsa Mosque’s storming.

At approximately 03:00 on Monday, 03 September 2018, Israeli forces moved into Silwan village, south of occupied East Jerusalem’s Old City. They raided and searched a house belonging to ‘Adnan Ghaith, the Governor of Jerusalem, and damaged its contents, in addition to other houses. They then arrested 5 Palestinian civilians identified as ‘Alaa Tawfiq Abu Tayieh (20), ‘Odai ‘Adnan Ghaith (18), ‘Ali Sabri Abu Diyab |(21), Mohamed Waleed Ghaith (20), and Majdi ‘Abisan (19).

At approximately 16:30 on Monday, Israeli forces moved into ‘Obaid neighborhood in al-‘Issawiyia village, northeast of occupied East Jerusalem. They arrested a former prisoner, Sondos Sameer Mohamed ‘Obaid (18), while walking in front of her house. It should be noted that Sondos was arrested 2 years ago and served 8 months in the Israeli jails.

At approximately 19:00 on Monday, Israeli forces raided a café in al-Sahl area in Badou village, northwest of occupied East Jerusalem, and then arrested 2 young men identified as Mujahed Hammad Shamasnah (27) and Loai Mosbah Tabanjah (29).

At approximately 01:30 on Tuesday, 04 September 2018, Israeli forces moved into al-Matar neighborhood near Kafur ‘Oqoub, north of occupied East Jerusalem. They raided and searched houses from which they arrested Basman Abu Irmilah (46) and Saif Mohamed Abi Irmilah (22).

At approximately 02:00, Israeli forces moved into al-Danadnah neighborhood in Abu Dis village, east of occupied East Jerusalem. They raided and searched houses from which they arrested Ibrahim Naser Dandan (21) and Mohamed Saleh ‘Ayyad (22).

At approximately 13:00, Israeli forces moved into al-Thawri neighborhood, south of occupied East Jerusalem. They raided and searched a house belonging to Yehia al-Daqqaq (53) and arrested his son Mohamed (23).

House and Civilian Property Demolitions and Notices:

On Thursday, 30 August 2018, the Israeli Municipality staff partly demolished a wall near Bab al-‘Amoud area in occupied East Jerusalem’s Old City. They also opened a new gate leading to Christian neighborhood in the Old City. Basem Sa’ied Wajeeh, Christian neighborhood’s Chieftain (Mukhtar) , said that the Israeli Municipality did not inform anyone about conducting changes or building new roads in the neighborhood. He added that the Israeli forces opened a new gate leading to Christians’ houses in Jerusalem’s Old City, without any reasons.

At approximately 04:30 on Monday, 03 September 2018, Israeli forces backed by 3 military vehicles and accompanied with a vehicle of the Israeli Civil Administration and a digger moved into Kherbit Qawawis, southeast of Yatta, south of Hebron. The Israeli soldiers deployed in the area and the bulldozer demolished a residential room belonging to Yousef Mohamed Abu ‘Arram (44) under the pretext of non-licensing. The abovementioned area is located between “Evigal“ and “Mitspe Yair“ settlements established on the confiscated lands of Palestinian civilians. After that, the Israeli forces headed to nearby Zodeen area, where they demolished 2 mobile bathrooms built on an area of one square meters and a 40-square-meter barrack used as a workshop for repairing cars’ tires and belongs to Nayif al-Yateemin.

On Monday morning, Israeli bulldozers demolished 4 houses and an agricultural caravan in al-Walajah village, west of Bethlehem, under the pretext of non-licensing. حثخحozers32 l caravan in al-Walajah village, west of Bethlehem, under the pretext of non-licinsing As a result, 32 persons became homeless and confrontations erupted between the Israeli soldiers, village’s residents and houses’ owners, who set-in inside the village in protest against the demolition. These confrontations resulted in the injury of 6 civilians by rubber-coated bullets. The wounded civilians were then taken to the hospital to receive medical treatment.

Activist Ibrahim ‘Awadallah said that by yesterday evening, Israeli force moved into Khalet al-Samak and ‘Ein Jowiza areas in al-Walajah village, where they notified houses belong to : Hanan Mohammed al-Razem , Khaled Mahmoud Abu Khyara, ‘Alaa Husein Hajajla and Ahmed ‘Ali abu al-Teen. It should be noted that the abovementioned houses were previously notified.

‘Awadallah pointed out that the Israeli soldiers threatened the houses’ owners to self-demolish their houses or the Israeli Municipality staff will demolish them and the owners will pay the demolition costs. He added that at approximately 04:00, large Israeli forces accompanied with military vehicles moved into the village and demolished 4 houses and an agricultural caravan despite confronting them by the village residents.

‘Awadallah clarified that the Israeli forces fired sound bombs, tear gas canisters and rubber-coated bullets during the confrontations erupted in the village to demolish the houses. As a result, 6 civilians were injured by rubber-coated bullets and dozens of civilians suffered tear gas inhalation.

It should be noted that a 200-square-meter house belongs Khaled Mamoud abu Khyara and shelters 11 members was demolished, in addition to a 130-square-meter house belongs to Hanan al-Razim and shelters 7 members was demolished as well. The two houses were located in ‘Ein al-Jwaiza area and demolished under the pretext of non-licensing.

Moreover, the Israeli bulldozers demolished a 100-square-meter house belonging to Ahmed ‘Ali Abu al-Teen and sheltering 7 persons; and a house belonging to ‘Alaa Husein Hajajla and sheltering 7 persons. The abovementioned houses were located in Khalet al-Samak area. The Israeli forces demolished the houses after dozens of civilians set-in the house and confronted the Israeli bulldozers. In the same context, the Israeli bulldozers demolished an agricultural caravan belonging to a civilian from Shuqairat family in the village.

The Red Crescent Society stated that its staff treated more than 16 injuries during the confrontations erupted in al-Walajah village. Six of those injuries were wounded by rubber-coated bullets and others were severely beaten. The wounded persons were then taken to hospital while many civilians, who suffered tear gas inhalation, were treated on the spot.

At approximately 07:00 on Tuesday, 4 September 2018, Israeli forces demolished a facility used for breeding livestock in ‘Anata village, north east of occupied East Jerusalem, under the pretext of non-licensing.

An eyewitness said that the Israeli Municipality vehicles moved into ‘Anata village and demolished a 70-square-meter facility used for breeding livestock (barrack). The barrack belongs to Mohammed al-Saray’a and was demolished under the pretext of no construction license, which Palestinians were prevented to obtain as a policy to impose further restrictions and seize their’ lands. As a result, demographics of the city will change.

In August 2018, the Israeli authorities demolished 11 residential, commercial and agricultural facilities and forced a Palestinian civilian to self-demolish his facility.

At approximately 12:00 on Tuesday, 4 September 2018, the Israeli Municipality vehicles demolished a house and a barrack in al-Fahaidat neighborhood in ‘Anata village, north east of occupied East Jerusalem, under the pretext of non-licensing.

Ziyad Fahaidat said that large forces of Israeli soldiers accompanied with a bulldozer moved into al-Fahaidat neighborhood in ‘Anata village and demolished a house belonging to Saleh Mohammed Fahidat. The 20-sqaure-meter house was built in 1967 and was sheltering 5 persons. He pointed out that the Israeli staffs demolished an 80-square-meter barrack attached to the house under the pretext of non-licensing.

On Wednesday morning, 5 September 2018, Israeli Supreme Court in occupied East Jerusalem decided to demolish Khan al-Ahmar Bedouin Community, east of Jerusalem and displace dozens of Palestinian families who live there. At the end of the court hearing that was held on the same day, the Israeli Supreme Court’s judges announced their refusal to the challenge submitted by the residents of Khan al-Ahmar Bedouin Community and ordered them to evacuate. The residents of Khan al-Ahmar community refused an Israeli offer to displace them to Jericho, east of the West Bank. The Israeli government ordered the residents of Khan al-Ahmar community to forcibly evacuate the community and gave them alternative lands of 255 dunums near Jericho. The alternative lands would be uninhabited and lack public services as they are not connected to the road network or infrastructure, including water lines, electricity or sewage treatment network. Around 80 Palestinian families comprised of 190 members are living in Khan al-Ahmar Community and its surrounding. Those families are from al-Jahaleen tribe. Khan al-Ahmar Community is one of 46 Bedouin Communities in the West Bank, which face the similar threat. Khan al-Ahmar Community is part of lands targeted by the Israeli authorities for the implementation of its “E1” settlement project through seizing Palestinian lands Eastern Jerusalem to the Dead Sea. This project aims at emptying the area of Palestinians as part of a project to separate southern West Bank from its center and isolate occupied Jerusalem from the West Bank.

At approximately 09:00 on the same day, a large force of Israeli soldiers accompanied with the Israeli Municipality staff and bulldozers raided a residential building in Ras al-‘Amoud neighborhood, east of occupied East Jerusalem, and demolished it under the pretext of non-licensing.

‘Ali Abu Sawi, the house’s owner, said that a day before demolishing the house, the Israeli forces took photos of the area and the building without saying any reasons. On the next day, he was surprised with raiding, surrounding and demolishing his house, noting that the Israeli Court is considering the decision to delay the demolition. He pointed out that the Israeli Municipality imposed NIS 60.000 on him as a construction fine. ‘Ali said that he built his 120-square-meter house 5 years ago.

In the same context, the Israeli bulldozers demolished a residential building belonging to Na’iem Farrah and his sons in al-‘Aqabah neighborhood in Beit Haninah village, north of occupied East Jerusalem, under the pretext of non-licensing. Sanaa’ Farrah, the house’s owner, said that the Israeli forces raided her house and ordered her to get out in order to demolish it. She pointed out that her sons headed to the court to delay the demolition decision, which was issued yesterday, but the officer ignored the court’s decision. Sanna added that the house was built 16 years ago and the Israeli Municipality imposed a fine on her estimated at NIS 120.000. When the family paid the fine, the Israeli Municipality issued the demolition decision.

Farrah Family clarified that the Israeli Municipality staff prevented them from vacating the house contents, so the staff started doing so. Around 20 members were living in the 150-square-meter house, which was comprised of 4 rooms, living room and other facilities. While carry out the demolition, the Israeli forces beat and pushed Palestinian young men and arrested Mo’taz Na’ieem Farrah (34) and took him to an unknown destination.

Settlement activities and attacks by settlers against Palestinian civilians and property

Israeli settlers’ attack:

On Saturday, 01 September 2018, a group of Israeli settlers from “Yitzhar“ settlement established on Bureen village’s lands, south of Nablus, attacked a plot of land belonging to Zakaria Jameel Salman al-Najjar in al-Mayadeen area, south of the village. The Israeli settlers cut with steel saws about 20 fruitful olive trees planted 60-70 years ago.
At approximately 17:00 on Saturday, a group of Israeli settler from “Har Bracha“ settlement established on Bureen village’s lands, south of Nablus, attacked a house belonging to Basheer Hamza Zabin, from the northern side of the village and near “Arousa “ settlement outpost, which is extended from the abovementioned settlement. The Israeli settlers threw stones at the house and no casualties were reported.
At approximately 21:30, a group of Israeli settlers, who were driving 2 vehicles on “Yitzhar “ Bypass Road, south of Nablus, attacked a Palestinian vehicle carrying 4 civilians, including a child. As a result, the vehicle’s windshield was damaged and the 4 passengers sustained wounds due to scattering the glass. The wounded persons were then taken to Rafidiya Hospital in Nablus to bandage their wounds. The wounded persons were identified as Fadi Reziq ‘Owidah (30) and his child Aleen (5), Mohamed Ghaleb Farah Ahmed (24) and Amal Ghaleb Farah Ahmed (30). All of them are from Bita village, south of Nablus. Fadi ‘Owidah said to PCHR’s fieldworker that:

“At approximately 19:00 on Saturday, 01 September 2018, I rented a car from a car rental company in Bita village and I drove it heading to Nablus. I was along with my daughter Aleen and my friend Mohamed Ghaleb and his sister Amal. We spent time in Nablus, Rafidia neighborhood and the Academy area in the western side of the city. At approximately 21:15, we left Nablus, headed towards Jeet village’s intersection and then entered “Yitzhar” settlement road. While we were on our way, we saw 2 civilian vehicles belonging to Israeli settlers. The Israeli settlers were devising slowly on the street’s right side. An Israeli settler threw a stone at our car and broke the car’s windshield. We fled from the area and went to Rafidia Hospital in Nablus, where we conducted medical examination and bandaged our wounds before leaving.”

At approximately 00:00 on Sunday, 02 September 2018, dozens of Israeli settlers accompanied with Israeli forces moved into ‘Ortah village, southeast of Nablus, via buses. The Israeli settlers performed their religious rituals and performed their Talmudic prayers in al-‘Aziz area, west of the village. On the next day morning, the Israeli forces and settler withdrew from the village and no more incidents were reported.

At approximately 07:00 on Monday, 03 September 2018, Palestinian civilians from the southern side of Bita village, southeast of Nablus, on Osreen Street, were surprised with writing slogans in Hebrew on the wall of an under-construction house, in addition to write other slogans on cars and punctured their tires. Those cars belong to:

Mohamed Fayiz Hamayel, whose car tires were punctured.
Mohanad Fayiz Hamayel, whose car tires were punctured.
Nassar Ahmed Mohamed Hamayel, whose car tires were punctured and slogans were written on his under-construction house wall.
Fahmi al-Jaghoub, whose car tires were punctured.

Recommendations to the International Community

PCHR warns of the escalating settlement construction in the West Bank, the attempts to legitimize settlement outposts established on Palestinian lands in the West Bank and the continued summary executions of Palestinian civilians under the pretext that they pose a security threat to the Israeli forces. PCHR reminds the international community that thousands of Palestinian civilians have been rendered homeless and lived in caravans under tragic circumstances due to the latest Israeli offensive on the Gaza Strip that has been under a tight closure for almost 11 years. PCHR welcomes the UN Security Council’s Resolution No. 2334, which states that settlements are a blatant violation of the Geneva Conventions and calls upon Israel to stop them and not to recognize any demographic change in the oPt since 1967. PCHR hopes this resolution will pave the way for eliminating the settlement crime and bring to justice those responsible for it. PCHR further reiterates that the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, are still under Israeli occupation in spite of Israel’s unilateral disengagement plan of 2005. PCHR emphasizes that there is international recognition of Israel’s obligation to respect international human rights instruments and international humanitarian law. Israel is bound to apply international human rights law and the law of war, sometimes reciprocally and other times in parallel, in a way that achieves the best protection for civilians and remedy for the victims.

PCHR calls upon the international community to respect the Security Council’s Resolution No. 2334 and to ensure that Israel respects it as well, in particular point 5 which obliges Israel not to deal with settlements as if they were part of Israel.
PCHR calls upon the ICC this year to open an investigation into Israeli crimes committed in the oPt, particularly the settlement crimes and the 2014 offensive on the Gaza Strip.
PCHR Calls upon the European Union (EU) and all international bodies to boycott settlements and ban working and investing in them in application of their obligations according to international human rights law and international humanitarian law considering settlements as a war crime.
PCHR calls upon the international community 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.
PCHR calls upon the international community and United Nations to take all necessary measures to stop Israeli policies aimed at creating a Jewish demographic majority in Jerusalem and at voiding Palestine from its original inhabitants through deportations and house demolitions as a collective punishment, which violates international humanitarian law, amounting to a crime against humanity.
PCHR calls upon the international community to condemn summary executions carried out by Israeli forces against Palestinians and to pressurize Israel to stop them.
PCHR calls upon the States Parties to the Rome Statute of the ICC to work hard to hold Israeli war criminals accountable.
PCHR calls upon the High Contracting Parties to the Geneva Conventions to fulfill their obligations under article (1) of the Convention to ensure respect for the Conventions under all circumstances, and under articles (146) and (147) to search for and prosecute those responsible for committing grave breaches of the Geneva Conventions to ensure justice and remedy for Palestinian victims, especially in light of the almost complete denial of justice for them before the Israeli judiciary.
PCHR calls upon the international community to speed up the reconstruction process necessary because of the destruction inflicted by the Israeli offensive on Gaza.
PCHR calls for a prompt intervention to compel the Israeli authorities to lift the closure that obstructs the freedom of movement of goods and 1.8 million civilians that experience unprecedented economic, social, political and cultural hardships due to collective punishment policies and retaliatory action against civilians.
PCHR calls upon the European Union to apply human rights standards embedded in the EU-Israel Association Agreement and to respect its obligations under the European Convention on Human Rights when dealing with Israel.
PCHR calls upon the international community, especially states that import Israeli weapons and military services, to meet their moral and legal responsibility not to allow Israel to use the offensive in Gaza to test new weapons and not accept training services based on the field experience in Gaza in order to avoid turning Palestinian civilians in Gaza into testing objects for Israeli weapons and military tactics.
PCHR calls upon the parties to international human rights instruments, especially the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR), to pressurize Israel to comply with its provisions in the oPt and to compel it to incorporate the human rights situation in the oPt in its reports submitted to the relevant committees.
PCHR calls upon the EU and international human rights bodies to pressurize the Israeli forces to stop their attacks against Palestinian fishermen and farmers, mainly in the border area.

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Public Document

For further information please visit our website www.pchrgaza.org or contact PCHR’s office in Gaza City, Gaza Strip by email [email protected] or telephone +972 08 282 4776 – 282 5893.