Israeli forces continue systematic crimes in the occupied Palestinian territory (oPt)

(19 – 25 January 2017)

 

• Israeli forces killed a Palestinian civilian in the north-eastern side of occupied Jerusalem.
• 2 Palestinian Civilians were wounded, including a child, in the West Bank.

• Israeli forces continued to target Palestinian fishermen in the Gaza Sea.
• 3 fishermen, including a child, were wounded in two shootings against their Boats in the northern Gaza Strip

• Israeli forces continued to target the Gaza Strip border areas, but no casualties were reported.
• A watchtower belonging to Palestinian armed groups was damaged, east of al-Maghazi.

• Israeli forces conducted 63 incursions into Palestinian communities in the West Bank and a limited one into the Gaza Strip.
• 64 civilians, including 17 children and 7 activists in the Popular Committee against the Wall and Settlements, were arrested in the West Bank.
• 17 of them, including 12 children, were arrested in occupied Jerusalem.

• Israeli forces continued their efforts to create Jewish majority in occupied East Jerusalem.
• 22 commercial shops were demolished in the vicinity of Qalendia checkpoint, north of Jerusalem.
• A store, parking and store for construction materials were demolished.
• Israeli settlers took over a store in ‘Aqabet al-Khalidiyah neighbourhood in the Old City.

• Settlement activities continued in the West Bank.
• 4 dwellings and 10 other facilities were demolished in Kherbet Karzliyah, north of Jericho, rendering 11 persons homeless, including 6 children.
• Israeli settlers uprooted olive trees from the lands of Bitello village in Ramallah.

• Israeli forces turned the West Bank into cantons and continued to impose the illegal closure on the Gaza Strip for the 10^th
• Dozens of temporary checkpoints were established in the West Bank and others were re-established to obstruct the movement of Palestinian civilians.
• 8 Palestinian civilians, including a child, were arrested at military checkpoints.

 SummaryIsraeli violations of international law and international humanitarian law in the oPt continued during the reporting period (19 – 25 January 2017).

 

Shooting:

During the reporting period, Israeli forces killed a Palestinian civilian in the north-eastern side of Jerusalem and wounded 5 others, including a child, in the West Bank and Gaza Strip.  In the Gaza Strip, Israeli forces continued to chase Palestinian fishermen in the Gaza Sea and open fire at farmers in the border areas.

 

In the West Bank, in new crime of using excessive force, Israeli forces killed Hussein Abu Ghosh (24) from Qalendia refugee camp, north of Jerusalem, when they immediately opened fire at him.  This happened after his car veered off to a bus station at the entrance to “Adam” settlement established on the lands of Jabe’a village, northeast of the City, and crushed the iron barriers established by Israeli forces in the stations for the soldiers and settlers.

 

On 21 January 2017, during a demonstration organized by Palestinians and international activists at the eastern entrance to Kafr Qaddoum village, northeast of Qalqilya, Israeli forces opened fire at ‘Awad Sobhi (12) and wounded him to his right hand. The Israeli forces also arrested Ma’moun Shteiwi (40) and took him to an unknown destination.  In the same context, Israeli forces arrested 5 civilians, including a woman, when the earlier moved into “Bab al-Shams” village, which was re-established by the coordinating committee against the wall and settlements in the area adjacent to “Ma’ale Adumim” settlement, east of Jerusalem.

 

On 25 January 2017, ‘Omer al-Barghuthi (26) from ‘Aboud village, northwest of Ramallah, was seriously wounded and then arrested.  Israeli forces claimed that a speeding car opened fire at a number of Israeli soldiers near ‘Aboud village, so the soldiers opened fire back at him, causing him serious wounds.

 

In the Gaza Strip, Israeli forces wounded 3 fishermen, including a child. On 20 January 2017, ‘Abdel Rahim al-Sultan (25) was wounded when Israeli gunboats stationed west of al-Wahah area in the northern Gaza Strip heavily opened fire at the Palestinian fishermen.  On 23 January 2017, Israeli gunboats opened fire at Palestinian fishing boats in the same area.  As a result, Uranus al-Sultan (20) and his cousin ‘Oday (14) were wounded.

 

In the context of targeting Palestinian fishermen in the Gaza Sea in addition to the abovementioned incidents, Israeli gunboats stationed off al-Wahah shore as well opened fire at the Palestinian fishing boats on 24 January 2017.

 

On the same day, Israeli gunboats stationed off Rafah shore and off Khan Younis shore opened fire at a group of fishing boats.  The shooting recurred at the boats on 25 January 2017.  However, neither casualties nor damages to the boats were reported.

In the context of targeting the border areas, on 24 January 2017, Israeli forces fired two artillery shells at a watchtower belonging to the Palestinian armed groups, east of al-Maghazi in the central Gaza Strip.  As a result, the watchtower sustained material damages.  On the same day, Israeli forces opened fire at the agricultural lands, east of Khan Younis.

 

Incursions:

 

During the reporting period, Israeli forces conducted at least 63 military incursions into Palestinian communities in the West Bank. During these incursions, Israeli forces arrested at least 64 Palestinian civilians, including 17 children. Seventeen of them, including 12 children, were arrested in occupied Jerusalem. Seven of those arrested were activists in the Committees against the Wall and Settlements.

 

In the Gaza Strip, on 25 January 2017, Israeli forces moved into al-Shokah village, east of Rafah City in the southern Gaza Strip and levelled and combed in the area before redeploying along the border fence.

 

Efforts to create Jewish majority

 

In the context of house demolitions and notices, On Thursday early morning, 19 January 2017, Israeli forces carried out a large-scale demolition in the southern side of Qalendia refugee camp, north of occupied Jerusalem.  They levelled 22 stores used as an automobile repair and spare parts shops, used cars showrooms and vegetable and fruit shops.

 

On 25 Janaury 2017, Israeli municipality bulldozers demolished a store, parking and fences belonging to Redwan Jamal ‘Amr in al-‘Abasiyah neighbourhood in Silwan village, south of Jerusalem’s Old City.  Around the same time, Israeli bulldozers demolished a store for construction materials belonging to Nassar Family in Qaddoum Valley neighbourhood in Silwan village as well under the pretext of building without a license.

 

On 17 January 2017, Firas Mahmoud self-demolished his 130-square-meter house in al-‘Issawiyah village, northeast of occupied Jerusalem.  It should be mentioned that the municipality issued a decision so Mahmoud self-demolishes his house and refused his attempt to obtain a license or postpone the demolition.  If he did not do so, the municipality would demolish it and impose on him a demolition fee.  Mahmoud started building his houses 8 months ago and intended to move and live in it in the coming days along with his 5-member family.

 

In the same context, on 24 January 2017, Israeli settlers took over a store belonging to the family of Noura Gheith in ‘Aqabet al-Khalidyah neighbourhood in the Old City of Jerusalem.

 

 

Settlement activities and Israeli settlers’ attacks against Palestinian civilians and their property:

 

On 23 January 2017, Israeli forces demolished four dwellings, barracks used as sheep shelters, 2 barns and 4 other attached facilities in Kherbet Karzaliyah in Central Jordan Valley, north of Jericho.  That Property belongs to the family of Zuhair Qassem Bani Menia and Zahi Fahim Bani Meniah.  The number of both families’ members is 11, including 6 children.  The Israeli forces also levelled an agricultural road leading to the abovementioned area to deny the families’ access to the property.

 

In the same context, a group of Israeli settlers from “Tel Mond” and “Nhlial” settlemnts attacked a plot of agricultural land belonging to a Palestinian civilian from Bitello village, northwest of Ramallah and uprooted and broke 10 olive trees there.

 

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 9 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 2 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. The Israeli closure raised the rate of poverty to 65%. Moreover, the rate of unemployment increased up to 47% and youth constitutes 65% of the unemployed persons.  Moreover, 80% of the Gaza Strip population depends on international aid to secure their minimum daily needs. These rates indicate the unprecedented economic deterioration in the Gaza Strip.

 

In the West Bank, Israeli forces continued to suffocate the Palestinian cities and village by imposing military checkpoints around and/or between them. This created “cantons” isolated from each other that hinders the movement of civilians. Moreover, the Palestinian civilians suffering aggravated because of the annexation wall and checkpoints erected on daily basis to catch Palestinians.

 

 

Details

 

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

 Thursday, 19 January 2017 

• At approximately 01:35, Israeli forces moved into Qalqiliyah. They raided and searched a number of houses and then arrested Yusuf Yasser Mohammed Suwailem (21). At approximately 04:30, they withdrew taking him to an unknown destination.

 

• At approximately 01:50, Israeli forces moved into Azzoun village, east of Qalqiliyah. They raided and searched 3 houses belonging to Kathem Mofeed Isamil Redwan (19), Abdul Raheem Bilal Redwan (22) and Shaher Hesham ‘Edwan (40). They then detained Mohammed Ahmed Dahbour (58) after they failed to arrest his son, but later released him.

 

• At approximately 02:00, Israeli forces moved into Ektaba Suburb, northeast of Nablus. They raided and searched a number of houses after which they arrested Ahmed Nabhan Abu Basir (52) and Rami Fayez Abu Huwailah (37).

 

• At approximately 02:30, Israeli forces moved into ‘Asker refugee camp, northeast of Nablus. They raided and searched a number of houses after which they arrested Ahmed Nabhan Abu Basir (52) and Rami Fayez Abu Huwailah (37).

 

• Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Beit Ummer village, north of Hebron. They raided and searched a house belonging to Montaser Wagih Abu ‘Ayash (26) and then arrested him.

 

• At approximately 03:00, Israeli forces moved into Deir al-Ghosoun village, north of Tulkarm. They raided and searched several houses and then arrested Mahmoud Mohammed Shehadah (31). At approximately 04:30, they withdrew taking him to an unknown destination.

 

• At approximately 17:30, Israeli forces moved into Deir Qadis village, west of Ramallah. They raided and searched houses of the families of ‘Asem Namer Naser (16), ‘Amr ‘Ali Yusuf Abu Zaid (15) and Hesham Shawkat Naser (16) and then arrested them.

 

Note: During the aforementioned day, Israeli forces conducted (6) incursions in the following areas and no arrests were reported: Tarqumia, al-Thaheriyah villages, Yatta and Halhoul in Hebron; Selwad village, northeast of Ramallah and ‘Arabah village, south of Jenin.

 

Friday, 20 January 2017

 

• At approximately 02:00, Israeli forces moved into Surif village, north of Hebron. They raided and searched a house belonging to Hatem Mousa Ghnaimat (25) and then arrested him.
• At approximately 09:00, Israeli gunboats stationed offshore, northwest of al-Waha, northwest of Beit Lahia in the northern Gaza Strip, opened fire at Palestinian fishing boats. They surrounded the boat to arrest the fishermen on board, but the fishermen were able to leave the area, and no material damages were reported. However, due to the shooting, Abdul Rahim Hesham ‘Ashour al-Sultan (25) sustained a metal bullet wound to the right leg. He was transferred to the Indonesian Hospital in Jabalia. His injury was classified as minor. It should be noted that al-Sultan was on board with his father when he was wounded as their boat was sailing within 700 meters offshore.

 Note:

During the aforementioned day, Israeli forces conducted (9) incursions in the following areas and no arrests were reported: Burin, Osarin and ‘Aqraba villages in Hebron; Badia village, northwest of Salfit; Kafer al-Deek village, west of the city; al-‘Aroub refugee camp, Sa’ir villages and Nemrah neighborhood in the northern area in Hebron and al-Birah.

 

Saturday, 21 January 2017

 

• At approximately 01:30, Israeli forces moved into Beit Ummer village, north of Hebron, and stationed in ‘Asidah area. They raided and searched a house belonging to Ashraf ‘Ali Sabarnah (30) and handed him a summons to refer to the Israeli Intelligence Service in “Gush Etzion” settlement complex, south of Bethlehem.

 

• At approximately 03:00, Israeli forces moved into ‘Aqaba village, north of Tubas. They raided and searched a number of houses and then arrested Mohammed Thalgi Mohammed Sa’ed Abu ‘Arrah (20).

 

Note: During the aforementioned day, Israeli forces conducted (4) incursions in the following areas and no arrests were reported:  Yatta, Sa’ir and Beit Ummer villages in Hebron; and Azzoun village, east of Qalqiliyah.

 

Sunday, 22 January 2017

 

• At approximately 08:00, Israeli gunboats stationed off al-Wahah shore, northwest of Beit Lahia in the northern Gaza Strip, opened fire at Palestinian fishing boats sailing within 3 nautical miles and chased them. As a result, fishermen were forced to flee for fear of their lives, but neither casualties nor material damages were reported.

 

Note: During the aforementioned day, Israeli forces conducted (3) incursions in the following areas and no arrests were reported: al-Thaheriyah and Beit Ummer villages in Hebron and Hawarah village, south of Nablus.

 

Monday, 23 January 2017

 

• At approximately 01:30, Israeli forces moved into Balata refugee camp, east of Nablus. They raided and searched several houses after which they arrested ‘Edwan Ya’qub Ismail Bahnjawi (22) and Raa’d Mo’awiyah Bahnjawi (19).

 

• Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into ‘Asker refugee camp, northeast of Nablus. They raided and searched a number of houses after which they arrested Khalid Namer Fayad (26), and Na’im Fathi abdul Fattah Qandeel (27).

 

• Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into ‘Asker al-Balad village, east of Nablus. They raided and searched several houses after which they arrested Ahmed ‘Othman Duwaikat (25).

 

• Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into al-‘Aroub refugee camp, north of Hebron. They raided and searched a house belonging to Abdul Rahman Abu Sal (60) and then arrested his wife Sirriyah Abu Sal (56). It should be noted that Israeli forces arrested their son Ahmed (25) 3 weeks ago and subjected to investigation in Ashkelon Prison. They also summoned Sirriyah few days ago to refer to the Israeli Intelligence Service in “Gush Etzion” Settlement Complex, south of Bethlehem, but she refused to go. In the meantime, an Israeli force raided and searched a house belonging to Mohammed ‘Essa Abu Zagharit (24) and then arrested him.

 

• At approximately 06:40, Israeli gunboats stationed offshore, northwest of al-Wahah, northwest of Beit Lahia in the northern Gaza Strip, opened fire at Palestinian fishing boats. Israeli gunboats chased a fishing boat belonging to Sharif Mohammed al-‘Abed al-Sultan. The boat was manned by his son Uranus (20) and his nephew Odai Qusai Mohammed al-Sultan (14). The soldiers forced them to stop about 50 meters offshore. Due to the shooting, Uranus sustained a live bullet wound to the right eyebrow while Odai sustained a metal bullet wound to the left waist. After the Israeli boats withdrew, Odai sailed to the shore as other fishermen helped him. They called a Palestinian Red Crescent Society (PRCS) ambulance that took him to the Indonesian Hospital in Jabalia. Uranus was then transferred to al-Shifaa’ Hospital. Uranus’s injury was superficial as his head needed around 13 stiches. Uranus was then transferred to al-‘Oyoun Hospital to reveal if the injury affected his eyesight. Medical sources classified his injury as moderate.

 

• At approximately 07:30 Israeli planes sprayed pesticides at agricultural lands along the border fence between the Gaza Strip and Israel. They moved from Kissufim military site, north of Khan Yunis which is about 400 meters away from the border fence, claiming to eliminate the grass for security reasons in the area. Farmers said to PCHR’s fieldworker that 3 small planes flying low over the abovementioned border fence, sprayed pesticides at the area between al-Qararah and Abasan al-Kabirah. General Manager of Plant Protection in the Agriculture Ministry, Wa’el Thabet, said to PCHR’s fieldworker that on 21 December 2016, the Ministry held a meeting with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and asked to contact the Israeli forces to determine the date of spraying pesticides in the border area. On 24 December 2016, Israeli forces informed them that they will spray pesticides in the period between 25 December 2016 and 05 January 2017, without defining the pesticide’s type or a specific date. The Ministry informed the farmers about the dates to take precautions because the pesticide-spraying in the past years damaged and burnt the crops. The Israeli planes sprayed the pesticides on around an area of 800 square meters in the eastern side of the northern Gaza Strip on 01,03 and 05 January 2017. One day before, the Israeli authorities informed the ICRC that they will spray pesticides again on 23 January 2017. The Israeli planes sprayed pesticides on the eastern side of Maleka intersection, north of the Gaza Strip, to the east of Abasan al-Kabirah, east of Kahn Yunis. Farmers said to PCHR’s fieldworker that they were forced to delay planting their lands until the pesticide-spraying was over. In the next few days, the Agriculture Ministry will do land surveying to determine the spraying effect on the crops in the abovementioned areas.

 

• At approximately 18:00, Israeli forces arrested Abdullah Mahmoud Abu Rahmah (44), an activist in the Popular Peaceful Resistance Committees from Bil’in villages, west of Ramallah while attending a trial of 5 activists in the Comittees in Ofer Military Court, southwest of Ramallah. It should be noted that the 5 activists were arrested on Friday, 20 January 2017, when participating in the activity of re-establishing Bab al-Shams village adjacent to “Ma’aleh Adomim” settlement, east of Jerusalem.

Note:

During the aforementioned day, Israeli forces conducted (6) incursions in the following areas and no arrests were reported: Azzoun village, east of Qalqiliyah; Jeet village, northeast of the city; Beit Ummer, al-Thaheriyah and al-Kume villages in Hebron..

 

Tuesday, 24 January 2017

 

• At approximately 02:30, Israeli forces moved into Beit Ummer village, north of Hebron. They raided and searched a house belonging to Abdullah Ezreq Abu ‘Ayash and then arrested his son Wahid (21). In the meantime, other Israeli forces raided and searched a house belonging to ‘Emad Mohammed al-Salibi and arrested his son Amin (15).

 

• At approximately 03:30, Israeli forces moved into Tulkarm. They raided and searched a number of houses and then arrested Baraa’ Jamal Abdul Fattah (22). At approximately 04:30, they withdrew taking him to an unknown destination.

 

• At approximately 04:00, Israeli forces moved into al-Jalazoun refugee camp, north of Ramallah. They raided and searched houses belonging to Mustfa Husain Sharakah (26), Mahmoud Wajdi Safi (24) and Ma’ruf Bajes Nakhlah (23) and then arrested them.

 

• At approximately 04:30, Israeli forces moved into Qalqiliyah. They raided and searched a number of houses after which they arrested Yazan Mohammed Namer Abu Hamed (22).

 

• At approximately 06:30, Israeli gunboats stationed off Rafah shore in the southern Gaza Strip, opened fire at Palestinian fishing boats sailing off Rafah shore, but no arrests were reported.

 

 

• Around the same time, Israeli gunboats stationed off Khan Yunis shore in the southern Gaza Strip, opened fire at Palestinian fishing boats sailing within the limited fishing area. As a result, the fishermen were forced to flee for fear of their lives, but no casualties were reported.

 

• Around the same time, Israeli forces stationed along the border fence between the Gaza Strip and Israel, east of Khan Yunis in the southern Gaza Strip, opened fire at agricultural lands located to the west of the abovementioned fence, east of al-Fokhari village, east of Khan Yunis. The shooting continued for 2 hours. As a result, farmers were forced to leave their lands, but no casualties were reported.

 

• At approximately 07:30, Israeli gunboats stationed offshore, northwest of Beit Lahia village in the northern Gaza Strip, opened fire at Palestinian fishing boats sailing within 3 nautical miles and chased them. As a result, fishermen were forced to flee for fear of their lives, but neither casualties nor material damages were reported.

 

• At approximately 22:20, Israeli forces fired 2 artillery shells at a Palestinian watchtower east of al-Maghazi in the central Gaza Strip. As a result, the shelling caused material damages in the site, but no casualties were reported.

 Note:

During the aforementioned day, Israeli forces conducted (5) incursions in the following areas and no arrests were reported: Dura, Surif, Tarqumia, Ethna and Deir Samet villages in Hebron.

 

Wednesday, 25 January 2017

 

• At approximately 01:00, Israeli forces moved into Israeli forces accompanied with several military jeeps and a truck moved into Sa’ir village, east of Khan Yunis. The soldiers broke doors of a steel workshop belonging to Suhaib Husain Jaradat (30). They confiscated all contents in the workshop and then withdrew, but no arrests were reported.

 

• At approximately 01:30, Israeli forces moved into Beit Rema and Deir Ghasanah villages, northwest of Ramallah. They raided and searched houses belonging to Basem Sa’ed al-Barghuti (51), Hakim Mahmoud al-Barghuthi (22) and Nedal Thalgi al-Remawi (28) and then arrested them. After hours of detention, Israeli force released Nedal Thalgi al-Remawi (28).

 

• Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into al-Laban al-Gharbi village, northwest of Ramallah. They raided and searched houses belonging to Tareq Hesham Abu Salem (22), Marwan Mahmoud Radi (22) and Samer ‘Ayed Radi (16) and then arrested them.

 

• At approximately 02:00, Israeli forces moved into Dura village, southwest of Hebron, and stationed in Ghunaim area. They raided and searched a house belonging to the reporter of al-Majd TV channel, Mohammed Adeeb Ahmed al-Qeeq al-Talahmah, who was arrested few days ago after Israeli forces detained him at “Beit Eil” checkpoint, north of Ramallah. They also handed his wife ,journalist Faihaa’ Ibrahim Abdul ‘Aziz Shalash, a summons to refer to the Israeli Intelligence service in “Gush Etzion” settlement complex, south of Bethlehem. Israeli forces then moved into al-Eskan neighborhood. They raided and searched a house belonging to Ezz Eden Jamil al-Titi (22) and arrested him.

 

• Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Nour al-Shams refugee camp. They raided and searched a number of houses after which they arrested 4 civilians namely ‘Ali Khairi Mohammed Abu Salah (33), Mohammed adeeb Raja Gharifi (19), Mohammed ahmed Mohammed al-‘Ezzah (18) and Mohammed Sami ‘Aref Taher Omer (30).

 

• At approximately 03:00, Israeli forces moved into Ektaba Suburb, north of Tulkarm. They raided and searched several houses and then arrested ‘Ali Amin Ahmed abu al-Rub (18). At approximately 04:00, they withdrew taking him to an unknown destination.

 

• Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into ‘Anin village, west of Jenin. They raided and searched a number of houses and then arrested Saddam Mohammed Yasin (27). At approximately 04:30, they withdrew taking him to an unknown destination.

 

• At approximately 05:30, Israeli gunboats stationed off Rafah shore in the southern Gaza Strip, opened fire at Palestinian fishing boats sailing off Rafah shore, but neither casualties nor material damages were reported.

 

• At approximately 07:00, Israeli forces accompanied with a number of military jeeps and bulldozers moved around 50 meters near sofa militarysite in al-Shawkah village, east of Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip. They leveled and combed the area. At approximately 13:50, Israeli forces redeployed along the abovementioned border fence.

 

• In evening hours, Omer Nathir al-Barghuthi (26) from ‘Aboud village, northwest of Ramallah, sustained serious wounds and was arrested. He was transferred to a hospital in Jerusalem to receive medical treatment. Israeli forces claimed that a speeding car opened fire at Israeli soldiers in ‘Aboud village, but no casualties were reported. Therefore, Israeli soldiers opened fire at the car and wounded Omer causing him serious wounds. An Israeli military spokesperson claimed they found a rifle in the car.

 Note:

During the aforementioned day, Israeli forces conducted (6) incursions in the following areas and no arrests were reported: ‘Aboud, Kafer ‘Ein and Birzeit villages in Ramallah and al-Thaheriyah village in Hebron.

 

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

 

West Bank:

 

• Following the Friday prayer on Friday, 20 January 2017, dozens of Palestinian civilians and Israeli and international human rights defenders organized demonstrations in Bil’in and Nil’in villages, west of Ramallah and al-Nabi Saleh, northwest of the city, and Kafer Qadoum village, northeast of Qalqiliyah, protesting against the annexation wall and settlement activities. Israeli forces forcibly dispersed the protests, firing live and metal bullets, tear gas canisters and sound bombs. They also chased the protesters into olive fields and between houses.  As a result, many of the protesters suffered tear gas inhalation while others sustained bruises as Israeli soldiers beat them up.

 

• Following the Friday prayer, Israeli forces moved into Bab al-Shams village established by activists of the Popular Committee against the Wall and Settlement Activities, adjacent to “Ma’ale Adumim” settlement established on Palestinian lands, east of Jerusalem. Activists re-estabished the village in protest against the bill to annex the “Ma’ale Adumim” settlement to Israel. Israeli forces arrested 5 activists namely Mohammed Abdul Karim Mustafa al-Khatib (42), Akram Abdul Karim Mustafa al-Khatib (64), from Bil’in village, west of Ramallah, Monther ‘Amirah, Head of the Supreme Coordination Committee  agains the Wall and Settlements, Lama Nazih and Hasan Faraj, Member of the Revolutionary Council of Fatah. It should be noted that Bab al-Shams village was established on 11 January 2013, in protest against the Israeli settlement activity in Jerusalem. About 250 activists from different Palestinian areas in addition to International and Israeli activists set tents to establish the village in East Jerusalem protesting against the “E1” settlement project. However, Israeli forces removed the village. On the above-mentioned day, theactivists attempted to rebuild the village.

 

• At approximately 17:15 on Saturday, 21 January 2017, Palestinian civilians and International activists organized a demonstration. They made their way from Kafer Qadoum village, northeast of Qalqiliyah towards the eastern entrance to the village, in protest against closing the entrance since the beginning of al-Aqsa Intifada with an iron gate. As soon as the protestors arrived at the abovementioned entrance, Israeli soldiers fired live and metal bullets and sound bombs at them. As a result, ‘Awad Mansour Sobhi (12) sustained a metal bullet wound to the right hand. Israeli forces arrested Ma’moun Rafiq Shtewi (40).

 

2. 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

 

(16-23 January 2017)

 

Date	Imports
	Category	Amount
		Tons	Number	Liters
16 January	Various goods	4262
	Humanitarian aid	15089
	Cooking gas	249,991
	Benzene			221,990
	Diesel Diesel for UNRWA			548,750 76,000
	Industrial fuel			597,800
	Construction aggregates	10810
	Cement	3087
	Construction steel	887
17 January	Various goods	4423
	Humanitarian aid	15629
	Cooking gas	245,010
	Benzene			259,979
	Diesel Diesel for UNRWA			626,988 37,983
	Industrial fuel			594,392
	Construction aggregates	11005
	Cement	3660
	Construction steel	712
18 January	Various goods	3830
	Humanitarian aid	18223
	Cooking gas	248,380
	Benzene			190,028
	Diesel Diesel for UNRWA			478,478 38,000
	Industrial fuel			600,157
	Construction aggregates	12901
	Cement	4461
	Construction steel	651
19 January	Various goods	4779
	Humanitarian aid	17813
	Cooking gas	263,660
	Benzene			75,981
	Diesel Diesel for UNRWA			399,012 76,000
	Industrial fuel			583,940
	Construction aggregates	11935
	Cement	4297
	Construction steel	1073
	Cooking gas	119,710
	Industrial Diesel	585,429
22 January	Various goods	4558
	Humanitarian aid	16981
	Cooking gas	249,110
	Benzene			150,968
	Diesel Diesel for UNRWA			554,997 71,785
	Industrial fuel			489,455
	Construction aggregates	13552
	Cement	4483
	Construction steel	290
23 January	Various goods	5249
	Humanitarian aid	18904
	Cooking gas	247,100
	Benzene Benzene for UNRWA			75,988 71,785
	Diesel Diesel for UNRWA			519,982 38,000
	Industrial fuel			479,369
	Construction aggregates	13552
	Cement	4483
	Construction steel	290

  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

(18-24 January 2017)

Category	18 January	19 January	20 January	21 January	22 January	23 January	24 January
Patients	33	32	2	–	60	44	69
Companions	36	31	2	–	50	40	63
Personal needs	33	53	21	–	52	24	32
Families of prisoners	–	–	–	–	–	59	–
Arabs from Israel	10	3	4	–	17	3	5
Diplomats	2	5	–	–	–	7	1
International journalists	–	–	–	–	–	–	–
International workers	39	88	7	–	9	18	22
Travelers Abroad	–	1	–	–	–	–	40
Business people	182	169	2	1	262	209	163
Business meetings	–	–	–	–	–	–	–
Security interviews	9	11	–	–	9	7	3
VIPs	–	–	2	–	2	–	3
Ambulances to Israel	5	2	3	–	2	3	2
Patients’ Companions	5	2	3	–	2	5	2

 

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 established (21) checkpoints all over the city.

 

On Thursday, 19 January 2017, Israeli forces established 3 checkpoints at the entrances to al-Fawar refugee camp and Beit Ummer village and at the western entrance to Hebron (Farsh al-Hawa).

 

On Friday, 20 January 2017, 2 similar checkpoints were established at the southern entrance to Halhoul city and at the entrance to Karma village.

 

On Saturday, 21 January 2017, Israeli forces established 3 checkpoints at the entrances to al-Dahiriya and Sa;ir villages and at the eastern entrance to Dura village.  On Sunday, 22 January 2017, 3 similar checkpoints were established at the entrances to Ethna, al-Shayyoukh and al-Koum villages.

On Monday, 23 January 2017, Israeli forces established 3 checkpoints at the entrances to al-Fawar and al-‘Aroub refugee camps and at the entrance to al-Shayyoukh village.

 

On Tuesday, 24 January 2017, 2 similar checkpoints were established at the entrance to Ethna village and at the northern entrance to Hebron.

 

On Wednesday, 25 January 2017, Israeli forces established 5 checkpoints at the entrances to Sa’ir, Beit ‘Aynoun, Beit ‘Awaa and al-Nabi Yunis villages and at the southern entrance to Hebron.

 

• Ramallah and al-Bireh: Israeli forces established (9) checkpoints all over the city.

 

On Saturday, 21 January 2017, Israeli forces established 3 checkpoints at the entrance to Um Safa village, north of Ramallah; between Shaqbah and Shabteen villages, northwest of the city; and between Selwad and ‘Ain Yabroud villages, northeast of the city.

 

On Sunday, 22 January 2017, Israeli forces established 3 checkpoints at the intersection of al-Tayiba village (on al-Mo’arajat road between Ramallah and Jericho), east of Ramallah; at the intersection of ‘Ain Sina village and on ‘Atara bridge, north of the city.

 

At approximately 19:30 on Monday, 23 January 2017, a checkpoint was established on ‘Atara bridge, north of Ramallah.

 

At approximately 17:30 on Tuesday, 24 January 2017, Israeli forces established a checkpoiny at the entrance to al-Nabi Saleh village, northwest of Ramallah; while at approximately 17:30, a similar checkpoint was established on ‘Atara checkpoint, north of the city.

 

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

 

On Thursday, 19 January 2017, Israeli forces established 4 checkpoints at the eastern entrance to Qalqiliya; between ‘Azoun and ‘Izbit al-Tabeeb villages; Jensafout village’s intersection and between Jayyous and ‘Azoun villages, east of the city.

 

At approximately 17:30 on Monday, 23 January 2017, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the entrance to ‘Azoun village, while at approximately 23:45, a similar checkpoint was established between ‘Azoun and ‘Izbit al-Tabeeb villages, east of Qalqiliya.

 

Nablus: Israeli forces established (7) checkpoints all over the city.

 

On Monday, 23 January 2017, Israeli forces established 7 checkpoints, 3 of them on the bypass roads of Za’tara checkpoint, south of Nablus; while 4 of them on Nablus- Ramallah road in Hawarah village; on Yitzhar settlement road; Sorra village’s intersection, southwest of Nablus; and Deir Sharaf village’s intersection leading to Tulkarm.

 

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

 

At approximately 20:10 on Thursday, 19 January 2017, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the entrance to Askaka village, while at approximately 21:00, a similar checkpoint was established at the entrance to Yasouf village, east of Salfit.

At approximately 13:20 on Saturday, 21 January 2017, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the entrance to al-Zawiyia village, west of Salfit, while at approximately 20:50 on the same day, they re-established it again.

 

At approximately 20:25 on Monday, 23 January 2017, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the entrance to Deir Balout village, while at approximately 20:30, they a similar checkpoint was established at the entrance to Kafur al-Deek village, west of Salfit.

 

Arrests at military checkpoints:

 

• At approximately 15:00 on Saturday, 21 January 2017, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the south-eastern entrance to Jenin. They stopped and searched a vehicle carrying food supplies and heading to Jenin. They then arrested the driver and another child, who was with him. After that, the Israeli forces confiscated the vehicle’s key and took it to a checkpoint near Ya’boud village, southwest of the city. The driver and child were then identified as Majd Abed al-Kareem Hamad ‘Azam (29) and his cousin ‘Azam Mostafa ‘Azam ‘Azem (15). Both of them are from Sabastiya village, northwest of Nablus. Israeli forces then released the child and gave him the vehicle’s key, while Majd is so far under arrest.

 

• At approximately 21:00 on Saturday, Israeli forces established a checkpoint on Jericho and Nablus road (near Maale Ephraim settlement). They stopped civilians’ vehicles and checked their IDs. They also arrested Iyad ‘Amir Dowikat (30), from ‘Askar al-Balad area.

 

• At approximately 17:00 on Sunday, 22 January 2017, Israeli forces stationed at ‘Inab checkpoint, east of Tulkarm, stopped 3 civilians, from New Askar refugee camp, while they were on their way back from work and heading to Nablus. Eyewitnesses said that Israeli forces stopped a vehicle carrying the above mentioned civilians, checked their IDs and then arrested them.The arrested civilians were identified as Ahmed Nabil al-Ghoul (30), Abdullah Husam Abu Jamilah (24) and Thaier Yousef Abu Siryyia (24).

 

• At approximately 18:00 on Monday, 23 January 2017, Israeli forces established a checkpoint on Nablus and Tulkarm road, near Deir Sharaf intersection, northwest of Nablus. They stopped Palestinian vehicles and checked passengers’ IDs. After that, they arrested Omar Abed al-Latif Mohamed Sharai’ah (23), from Old ‘Askar refugee camp, northeast of the city, and took him to an unknown destination.

 

• At approximately 15:00 on Tuesday, 24 January 2017, Israeli forces arrested Ahmed Abdullah Irzeiq Abu ‘Aiyyash (27), after detaining him at a checkpoint at the entrance to Halhoul city, north of Hebron.

 

• Efforts to Create 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:

 

 

Shooting incidents:

 

• In new excessive use of lethal force, Israeli forces killed a Palestinian civilian near “Adam” settlement established on Jabi’ village’s lands, northeast of occupied Jerusalem. Israeli forces claimed that the abovementioned civilian attempted to carry out a run-over attack against a group of Israeli soldiers, who were stationed in a bus station. They also said that they found a knife with him. According to PCHR’s investigations, at approximately 17:00 on Wednesday, 25 January 2017, Hussain Salem Abu Ghoush (24), from Qalandia refugee camp, north of occupied Jerusalem, was driving his car on Jabi’ village’s road, northeast of occupied Jerusalem. During which, his car veered off to the station at the entrance to Adam settlement. As a result, the car crushed the iron checkpoints established by Israeli forces. Israeli forces immediately opened fire at Hussain and caused him serious wounds. They also left him bleeding without offering first aid, so he succumbed to his wounds. After that, Israeli forces detained Hussain’s corpse and then put it in a black sack. Hussain’s corpse was then taken via a military jeep towards occupied Jerusalem. The Israeli Spokesperson claimed that there were suspicions about the driver’s intention to carry out a run-over attack and the attack is still pending investigation. In addition, Israeli forces claimed that they found a knife with Hussain.

 Arrests and Incursions: 

• At approximately 03:00 on Sunday, 22 January 2017, Israeli forces moved into al-Tour village, east of occupied Jerusalem. They raided and searched houses from which they arrested 4 civilians, including 3 children. The arrested persons were identified as Yousef Mohamed Yousef Abu Jum’a (17), Ashraf Sa’d al-Deen Abu Jum’a (17), Ahmed Zuhair Abu Subieh (18) and Mahmoud Abdullah Abu al-Hawa (17).

 

• At approximately 02:00 on Monday, 23 January 2017, Israeli forces moved into al-‘Issawiya village, northeast of occupied Jerusalem. They raided and searched houses from which they arrested Hamad Yousef ‘Obaid (16), Mohamed Abed Mahmoud (17), Mohamed Abed ‘Atiya (16), Ahmed Zaher Tarwa (17), Sameer Akram ‘Atiya (15) and Adam Kayid Mahmoud (16).

 

• At approximately 02:30 on Monday, Israeli forces moved into Ras al-‘Amoud neighbourhood in al-‘Issawiya village, east of occupied Jerusalem. They raided and searched houses and arrested Mahmoud al-Zaghal (18).

 

• At approximately 03:00 on Monday, Israeli forces moved into the Old City’s neighbourhoods in occupied Jerusalem. They raided and searched houses from which they arrested Mamdouh al-‘Ajlouni (20) and Mohamed Badriya (22).

 

• At approximately 02:00 on Tuesday, 24 January 2017, Israeli forces moved into al-‘Issawiya village, northeast of occupied Jerusalem. They raided and searched houses from which they arrested 5 civilians, including 3 children. The arrested were identified as Mohamed Kayid Mahmoud (22), Ameer Munir Derbas (19), Khalid Abu Ghoush (17), Nadeem Zuhra (17) and ‘Abed al-Qadir Dari (17).

House demolitions and demolition notices:

 

• On Thursday, 19 January 2017, Israeli forces carried out a wide-scale demolition operation in the southern side of Qalandia camp, north of occupied Jerusalem. They demolished 22 facilities used as car repair garages, used car showrooms and shop for selling vegetables, fruits and drinks. According to PCHR’s investigations, at approximately 22:00 on Wednesday, 18 January 2017, a large force of Israeli soldiers moved into Qalandia refugee camp, north of Qalandia checkpoint. An hour later, another force comprised of 500 Israeli soldiers, Border Guard soldiers, special forces, and civil administration crews accompanied with 4 bulldozers and mounted-crane trucks, stationed near the abovementioned checkpoint. They then headed to the area, where garages, car showrooms and kiosk for selling vegetables and fruits are located, and imposed a military cordon around these facilities. The Israeli forces ejected the workers and denied the facilities’ owners access to the area. After that, the crews accompanying the Israeli forces vacated all the facilities’ contents by putting them in large bags and throwing them out. In addition, some goods were vacated via mounted-crane trucks. The bulldozers carried out the demolition operation, which continued until 05:00. They demolished the following facilities:

 

1. A 120-square-meter facility comprised of 3 commercial shops belonging to Mohamed Hasan Salem Shawamrah and used for selling used electrical devices,
2. A 2-dunum land used as a car showroom; 20-square-meter rooms built with bricks and used as offices; 5-square-meter room used as a kitchen; 3-square-meter room used as a bathroom. It should be noted that the car showroom belongs to Ashraf Mousa Ameen al-Tamimi and his parterner Sameer Sabri Mahmoud ‘Awawdah,
3. A 120-square-meter building comprised of 2 stores used for repairing motorcycles and belonging to Jamal Hesham Hijazi al-Jolani and
4. A facility comprised of 11 car repair and spare parts shops belonging to Majed Sa’ied Salah al-Deen.

 

• At approximately 09:00 on Wednesday, 25 January 2017, Israeli municipality bulldozers demolished a store, parking and fences belonging to Redwan Jamal ‘Amr in al-‘Abasiya neighborhood in Silwan village, south of occupied Jerusalem’s Old City. Eyewitnesses said that a large force of Israeli soldiers accompanied with municipality bulldozers and sniffer dogs moved into al-‘Abasiya neighborhood, closed all entrances and prevented civilians’ movement. During which, Israeli bulldozers demolished the parking, store and fences around them. The demolished facilities were built on an area of 30 square meters in 1967. According to the facilities’ owner, Redwan ‘Amr, the demolition operation was carried out without prior warning. The lawyer informed the family few days ago that the Israeli court extended the demolition decision and it is possible to impose on them fines instead of the demolition.

 

• Around the same time, Israeli municipality bulldozers demolished a facility for selling construction materials belonging to Nasar family in Wad Qaddoum neighborhood in Silwan village, under the pretext of non-licensing.

 Settlers’ attacks against Paelstinian civilians and their property: 

• On Thursday, 19 January 2017, Jerusalemite driver Mohammed Sub Laban (30) from Kafer ‘Aqab village, north of occupied Jerusalem, was subjected to sever beating by a number of Israeli settlers while driving a bus belonging to Egged Israeli Company. As a result, he sustained bruises throughout his body. Mohammed said to PCHR’s fieldworker that:

 

“When I stopped at the traffic light at Bar-Ilan Street adjacent to “Ramat Eshkol” settlement in West Jerusalem, a settler approached the bus window and spit on my face while another one opened the back door of the bus and hit me on my face along with the abovementioned settler. I attempted to keep them away, but I could not. Few minutes later, the settlers left the bus, so I went to “Hadassah- Ein Kerem” Hospital to receive medical treatment as I suffered bruises throughout my body”.

 

• On Tuesday morning, 24 January 2017, Israeli settlers seized a house in ‘Aqabet al-Khaldiyah neighborhood in Jerusalem’s Old City, belonging to the family of Noura Ghaith. Noura said to PCHR’s fieldworker that the Israeli High Court issued a decision against her a month ago in which she and her husband Mustafa Sub Laban are allowed to live in the disputed house for 10 years only, while the ownership of the store goes to settlers. Therefore, the settlers raided the store and changed its locks.

 

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

 Israeli forces attacks:

 

• At approximately 09:30 on Monday, 23 January 2017, Israeli forces accompanied with military vehicles, a vehicle of the Planning and Construction Department in the Israeli Civil Administration and bulldozer moved into Kherbit Karzilah in the central Jordan Valley, north of Jericho. The Israeli bulldozers demolished facilities belonging to Palestinian civilians. The demolished facilities were as follows:

 

1. A 45-square-meter barrack; 20-square-meter residential tent; two 45-square-meter barracks used for sheltering sheep; a 100-square-meter stable; oven and bathroom. All of them belong to Zuhair Qasem Fahmi Bani Muniya;
2. A 45-square-meter barrack; 20-square-meter residential tent; two 45-square-meter barracks used for sheltering sheep; a 100-square-meter stable; oven and bathroom. All of them belong to Zahi Qasem Fahmi Bani Muniya; and
3. An agricultural road.

 Settlers attacks:  

• On Friday, 20 January 2017, a group of Israeli settlers from “Tel Mond” and “Nhalial“ settlements attacked a plot of land belonging to a Palestinian civilian, from Bitlilo village, northwest of Ramallah. They uprooted and damaged olive trees.

 

According to PCHR’s investigations, at approximately 10:00, a number of Israeli settlers attacked an agricultural field, south of Bitlilo village, northwest of Ramallah. They uprooted and damaged around 10 olive trees. Ahmed Yoused Ahmed Darwish said to PCHR’s fieldworker that his father owns the 20-donoms plot of land in the abovementioned area adjacent to “Tel Mond” and ” Nhalial“ Street. At approximately 09:30, Yousef Darwish’s sons headed to their father’s land to work in it, but were surprised with a number of Israeli settlers staying there and damaging the olive trees. Yousef’s sons shouted at the settlers, who backed off.

 

After that, the sons contacted the Israeli police, who did not come. An Israeli military vehicle arrived in stead, but did not stop the settlers’ attack. Meanwhile, an Israeli police car arrived, so Ahmed and his brothers filed a complaint to them. It should be noted that it was not the first time that Israeli settlers attack Palestinian agricultural lands in the aforementioned area.

 

 

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 latest 51-day offensive 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 obligations 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 upon 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 United Nations to confirm that holding war criminals accountable 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;
9. 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;
10. PCHR calls upon the international community, particularly the UN, 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;
11. 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;
12. 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;

 

 

 

 

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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.