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

(28 January – 03 February 2016)

 

• Israeli forces continued to use excessive force in the oPt
• 5 Palestinian civilians were killed, 3 of whom were killed in occupied Jerusalem in one incident.
• 20 Palestinian civilians, including an Israeli human rights activist and 2 children, were wounded in the West Bank and Gaza Strip.

• Israeli forces continued to open fire at areas along the Gaza Strip borders, but no casualties were reported.

• Israeli forces conducted 81 incursions into Palestinian communities in the West Bank and a limited one in the southern Gaza Strip.
• 101 Palestinian civilians, including 24 children, were arrested. 35 of them, including 15 children, were arrested in occupied Jerusalem.

• Israeli forces continued to target Palestinian fishermen in the Gaza Strip sea.
• 4 fishermen were arrested and their 2 fishing boats were confiscated off Gaza Valley shore.

• Jewish majority efforts continued in occupied East Jerusalem.
• 2 under-construction houses in Sour Baher and Silwan villages were demolished.
• Al-Quds (Abu Dees) University was raided and all belongings of the university student unions were confiscated.

• Settlement activities continued in the West Bank.
• 3 residential tents in Deir Ammar village, northwest of Ramallah, were demolished.
• Israeli forces turned the West Bank into cantons and continued to impose the illegal closure on the Gaza Strip for the 9^th
• Dozens of temporary checkpoints were established in the West Bank and others were re-established to obstruct the movement of Palestinian civilians.
• 18 Palestinian civilians, including 2 children, were arrested at military checkpoints.
• A student was arrested at Beit Hanoun “Erez” crossing, north of the Gaza Strip.

 Summary

Israeli violations of international law and international humanitarian law in the oPt continued during the reporting period (28 January – 03 February 2016).

 

Shooting:

Israeli forces have continued to commit crimes, inflicting civilian casualties. They have also continued to use excessive force against Palestinian civilians participating in peaceful protests in the West Bank and Gaza Strip, the majority of whom were youngsters. Occupied East Jerusalem witnessed similar attacks. During the reporting period, Israeli forces killed 5 Palestinian civilians in the West Bank, 3 of whom were killed in occupied East Jerusalem in one incident. Moreover, they wounded 10 civilians, including an Israeli human rights activist and 2 children. Six civilians, including a child were wounded in the Gaza Strip while the remaining others were wounded in the West Bank. Concerning the nature of injuries, 12 civilians were hit with live bullets, 11 others were hit with rubber-coated metal bullets and one was hit with a sound bomb to the face.

In the West Bank, Israeli forces killed 5 Palestinian civilians and wounded 14 others, including a child and an Israeli human rights activist. Nine of them were hit with live bullets, 4 others were hit with rubber-coated metal bullets and one was hit with a sound bomb to the face.

 

In the West Bank, killings committed by Israeli forces were as follows:

On 31 January 2016, Israeli forces stationed at “Beit Eil” military checkpoint, north of al-Bireh, killed Amjad Sokari (35), from Jama’in village, south of Nablus, after he opened fire at the Israeli soldiers stationed at the abovementioned checkpoint and wounded 3 of them.

On 01 February 2016, Israeli forces killed Ahmed Touba (18), from Kufor Jamal village, northeast of Qalqilya, while attempting to sneak through the annexation wall into Israel in pursuit of work.

On 03 February 2016, Israeli Border Guard officers opened fire at 3 Palestinian civilians under the pretext they carried out a stabbing and shooting attack against Israeli soldiers at al-Amoud (Damascus) Gate in the Old City in occupied East Jerusalem. As a result, the 3 Palestinians were killed with several bullets throughout their bodies. The killed were identified as Ahmed Zakarnah (20), from Jenin; Ahmed Abu al-Rub (20); and Mohammed Kmail (19), both are from Qabatya village, southeast of the city.

In the Gaza Strip, Israeli forces wounded 6 Palestinian civilians, including a child during a protest organized near the border fence between the Gaza Strip and Israel, in the northern Gaza Strip. Three of them were hit with live bullets and the 3 others were hit with rubber-coated metal bullets.

As part of Israeli attacks along the border area in the Gaza Strip, on 28 January 2016, Israeli forces stationed at the border fence between the Gaza Strip and Israel, east of Khan Yunis, opened fire at agricultural lands, east of al-Qararah village, to the west of the border fence. However, no casualties were reported.

On 29 January 2016, Israeli forces stationed at the border fence between the Gaza Strip and Israel, east of Gaza Valley village, opened fire at Palestinian shepherds, who were in their lands adjacent to the fence. However, no casualties were reported.

In the context of Israeli attacks against Palestinian fishermen in the Gaza Strip Sea, on 30 January 2016, Israeli gunboats stationed off the northwest of Beit Lahia village, north of the Gaza Strip, opened fire at Palestinian fishing boats. However, neither casualties nor material damage were reported.

On 01 February 2016, Israeli gunboats stationed off the shores of Deir al-Balah and al-Nusairat refugee camps, in the central Gaza Strip, opened fire at about 50 fishing boats sailing within 5 nautical miles. However, neither casualties nor material damage were reported as well.

On 3 February 2016, Israeli gunboats chased while opening fire 2 fishing boats sailing within 5 nautical miles off Gaza Valley shore. On board of the 2 boats were Mohammed al-Sa’idi (24) and his brother Mahmoud (22), Sayed al-Sa’idi (31) and Jehad Kaskeen (20). The Israeli navy forces obliged the aforementioned fishermen to take their clothes off, jump in the water and swim towards the Israeli gunboats. Moreover, they took them to Ashdod Seaport and kept the 2 fishing boats under the Israeli custody. In the evening, Israeli forces released 3 fishermen and kept Mahmoud al-Sa’idi in detention.

 

Incursions:

During the reporting period, Israeli forces conducted at least 81 military incursions into Palestinian communities in the West Bank and 10 ones in occupied East Jerusalem and its suburbs. During these incursions, Israeli forces arrested at least 101 Palestinian civilians, including 24 children. Thirty-five of them, including 15 children, were arrested in East Jerusalem.

In the Gaza Strip, on 03 February 2016, Israeli forces conducted a limited incursion in the southern Gaza Strip. They moved about 100 meters to the east of al-Fokhari village, east of Khan Yunis, south of the Gaza Strip. Then then levelled lands for few hours and withdrew later.

 

Efforts to create Jewish Majority

In the context of house demolitions and demolition notices issued on grounds of non-licensing construction works, on 02 February 2016, vehicles belonging to the Israeli municipality demolished a house belonging to Eyad Abu Mahameed in Hommos valley in Sour Baher village, south of occupied East Jerusalem, under the pretext that he did not obtain a building permit in advance from the Israeli municipality. It should be noted that the aforementioned person should have moved in on the abovementioned day.

On the same day, on 29 January 2016, vehicles belonging to the Israeli municipality demolished a house belonging to Yehya Mohsen in Silwan village, south of the Old City under the pretext of not obtaining a building permit. It should be noted that Yehya was planning to move in soon.

On 29 January 2016, an Israeli large force raided al-Quds (Abu Dees) University, east of occupied Jerusalem. They raided the rooms of the student unions after detaining the security officers. They then damaged the rooms’ contents and confiscated a number of PC sets.

 

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 1.8 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 38.8%, 21.1% of which suffer from extreme poverty. Moreover, the rate of unemployment increased up to 44%, which reflects the unprecedented economic deterioration in the Gaza Strip.

 

Settlement activities:

On 31 January 2016, Israeli forces accompanied by Civil Administration and a truck-mounted crane moved into al-Shaikh area adjacent to Beit Ommer village, north of Hebron. They stationed around an underconstruction house belonging to Osama al-Alami, where the Civil Administration officers confiscated some of the construction steel, a concrete mixer and 5 concrete block containers estimated at NIS 13,000. Moreover, the Civil Administration officer handed a notice over to the house owner to halt construction works.

On 01 February 2016, Israeli forces demolished 3 shelters made of cloth, tin plates and wood and a livestock barn in Ein Ayoub area in Deir Ammar village, northwest of Ramallah, rending 17 members, including 11 children, homeless. These shelters belong to the families of brothers Sayyah, Abdullah and Ahmed Mousa Jahaleen.

In the Same context, on Tuesday, 01 February 2016, settlers opened fire towards a house belonging to Mohammed Abu Zaid, from Deir Estya village, northwest of Salfit. It should be noted that the house is located on the outskirts of the village and is surrounded with a number of settlements and settlement outposts.

 

Details

 

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

 Thursday, 28 January 2016 

• At approximately 01:30, Israeli forces moved into Yatta village, south of Hebron, and stationed in al-Berka neighbourhood. They raided and searched 4 houses from which the arrested 4 civilians. The arrested persons, who were taken to an unknown destination, were identified as Mohammed Rasmi al-‘Amour (33) and his brother Ribhi (28); Subhi Hasan Id’ais (29); and Jihad Khalil Abu ‘Eid (29).

 

• Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Beit Amrah village, west of Yatta, southwest of Hebron. They raided and search a house belonging to Iyad Jamal Isaa Da’yssat (26), after letting its residents outdoors. It should be noted that Da’yssat was killed near a military checkpoint established at the southern entrance to Hebron on 24 December 2015. Israeli forces claimed that Iyad attempted to carry out a stabbing attack. They withdrew later and no arrest were reported.

 

• Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into al-Jana neighbourhood in al-Bireh. They raided and searched a house belonging to Izz al-Din Mohammed al-Qadi (24). They arrested him and then withdrew taking him to an unknown destination.

 

• At approximately 02:30, Israeli forces moved into Tulkarm and stationed in the southern neighbourhood of the city. They raided and searched using sniffer dogs a house belonging to businessman Thaier Abed al-Rahim Salem Diyab (48) near al-Salam intersection. They then took him to house belonging to his brother Tareq (26), who is so far under arrest since 11 January 2016. After that, they withdrew and stationed in Nour al-Shams refugee camp, east of Tulkarm. They raided and searched a house belonging to Fisal Mahmoud Abedullah Khalifah (34) and arrested him.

 

• Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Beit Sira village, southwest of Ramallah. They raided and searched a house belonging to Mohammed Rasheed Saleem Hamdan (55). They then arrested him and his son Rasheed (32) and withdrew later taking both of them to Ofer prison, west of Ramallah. They were released on the next day evening.

 

• At approximately 03:00, Israeli forces moved into Taqou’ village, southeast of Bethlehem. They raided and searched a house belonging to Ibrahim Suliman. They arrested his son Mohammed (20) and then withdrew taking him to an unknown destination.

 

• At approximately 04:00, Israeli forces moved into ‘Ayda refugee camp, north of Bethlehem. They raided and searched a house belonging to Mostafah al-Zaboun, and handed his son Hitham (20) a summons to refer to the Israeli Intelligence service in “Gosh ‘Etzion” settlement complex, south of the city.

 

• At approximately 08:00, 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 the agricultural fields, east of al-Qararah village, where there were a group of farmers, shepherds and bird hunters. It should be mentioned that Israeli gunfire forced them to leave the area. No casualties were reported.

 

Note: During the aforementioned day, Israeli forces carried out 5 incursions in the following areas without reporting any arrests: Halhoul village; Tarqoumya village; al-Dahirya village; Tafouh village; and Abu al-Quzlan village in Hebron.

 

Friday, 29 January 2016

 

• At approximately 01:00, Israeli forces moved into Hebron and stationed in Abu Katila neighbourhood. They raided and searched a house belonging to Mohammed Sadiq al-Qawasma (24) and handed him a summons to refer to the Israeli Intelligence service in “Gosh ‘Etzion” settlement complex, south Bethlehem.
• At approximately 02:30, Israeli forces moved into Jaba’ village, south of Jenin. They raided and searched a house belonging to Ziyad Fareed al-Jammal (21) and handed him a summons to refer to the Israeli Intelligence service in Salem camp, northwest of Jenin.

 

• At approximately 04:00, Israeli forces moved into many neighbourhoods in Bethlehem. They raided and searched many houses from which they arrested 3 civilians. The arrested persons, who were taken to an unknown destination, were identified as Ramiz Yousef Melhem (18); Siraj Khaled al-‘Ass (17); and Mohammed Maher Masalma (22).

 

• At approximately 04:30, Israeli forces moved into Qabatia village, south of Jenin. They raided and searched a house belonging to Ali Yousef Mohammed Kamil (28) and arrested him.
• At approximately 09:00, Israeli forces stationed along the border fence between the Gaza Strip and Israel, east of Gaza valley (Johor Aldeek), opened fire at Palestinian farmers and shepherds who were present in their lands along the border fence. The shooting continued for 15 minutes that forced the farmers and shepherds to leave the area. No causalities were reported.

 

• Note: During the aforementioned day, Israeli forces carried out 9 incursions in the following areas without reporting any arrests: Kufor al-Deek village, west of Salfit; Samou’a village; Dura; al-Moureq and al-Majd villages in Hebron; Bitonya village; Safah and Shaqbah villages, west of Ramallah; and Kherbit al-Mosbah village, southwest of the city.

 

Saturday, 30 January 2016

 

• At approximately 03:00, Israeli forces moved intoal-Dhaisha refugee camp, southwest of Bethlehem. They raided many houses and handed 4 civilians, including a girl, summonses to refer to the Israeli Intelligence service in “Gosh ‘Etzion” settlement complex, south of the city. The summoned person were identified as Mostafah Ameen al-Akhras (28); Amal Mohammed ‘Ajamiay (30); Khalil Ahmed Taqatqah (21); and Abed al-Kareem Ahmed ‘Abaad (52).
• At approximately 09:30, Israeli gunboats positioned off Al-Waha resort northwest of Beit Lahia, northern Gaza Strip, heavily fired live bullets and shells at the Palestinian fishing boats sailing within 2 nautical miles. The shooting, which continued for 30 minutes, frightened the fishermen who were forced to flee to the shore. However, neither casualties nor damages were reported. It should be mentioned that the Palestinian fishing boats were looking for a missing fisherman namely Hamdi Abed al-Sultan (26), from al-Salateen neighborhood in Beit Lahia, who was lost on Friday, 29 January 2016. Hamdi was sailing in the sea, during which, he suffered from spasms and fell into the sea.

 Note:

During the aforementioned day, Israeli forces carried out 7 incursions in the following areas without reporting any arrests: Salfit; Yasouf village; Taqou’ village, southeast of Bethlehem; al-‘Abadiya village; Kherbitha al-Mosbah village; Beit ‘Our Tahta villahg; south west of Ramallah; Deir Dabwan village, northeast of the city.

 

Sunday, 31 January 2016

 

• At approximately 01:30, Israeli forces moved into many neighbourhoods in Hebron. They raided and searched 3 houses from which they arrested 3 civilians. The arrested persons were identified as Mahmoud Fathi al-Qawasma (25); Salah ‘Isaa al-Mohtaseb (28); and Abed al-Hafiz ‘Adnan al-Mohtaseb (20). Israeli soldiers raided a house belonging to Ahmed Mahmoud al-‘Awyouy (28) and handed him a summons to refer to the Israeli Intelligence service in “Gosh ‘Etzion” settlement complex, south of the city.

 

• At approximately 02:30, Israeli forces moved into al-‘Aroub refugee camp, north of Hebron and stationed near an UNRWA Distribution Center. They raided and searched 2 houses and arrested 2 civilians. The arrested persons were identified as Bahaa Abed al-Ghafar Hamouz (18); and Mohammed Ahmed Abed al-Razeq Abu Sal (20).
• At approximately 03:30, Israeli forces moved into Eifqaqees village, south of Dura, southwest of Hebron, and deployed around the village’s mosque. They raided a house belonging to Adam Taha Abu Sharar (29) and handed him a summons to refer to the Israeli Intelligence service in “Gosh ‘Etzion” settlement complex, south of Bethlehem.

 

• At approximately 04:00, Israeli forces moved into Bethlehem village and stationed in the center of the city. They raided and searched many houses and arrested 2 civilians. The arrested persons were identified as Mohammed Mouhiy Soman (18); and Mohammed Taha Abu Latifa (22).

 

• In the afternoon, Israeli forces stationed at “Beit Eil” checkpoint, north of al-Bireh, killed Amjad Jaser ‘Awad Abu ‘Omar (35), from Jama’een village, south of Nablus, after he opened fire from a pistol at the soldiers stationed at the checkpoint. According to investigations conducted by PCHR, at approximately 12:00, the abovementioned civilian arrived at “Beit Eil” checkpoint by his own car with a Palestinian registration plate. When an Israeli soldier approached the car to check Omar’s ID, the later opened fire from his pistol at the soldiers. As a result, the soldier immediately opened fire at him and wounded him with 9 live bullets to the head, neck, chest, arms and legs. Moreover, they left him bleeding to death. The Palestinian medical crews attempted to offer him first aid, but Israeli forces prevented them. After an hour and a half, Israeli forces delivered the corpse to a PRCS ambulance that took the corpse to Palestine Medical Complex in Ramallah. According to what was published by Israeli website (0404), the Israeli soldiers stationed at the checkpoint were exposed to gunfire from zero distance by a Palestinian young man. The website confirmed that the incident resulted in wounding 3 soldiers, 2 of whom sustained serious wounds. It should be mentioned that the victim was working as a captain in the Palestinian Police Apparatus, besides; he is married and has 4 children.

 

• At approximately 14:20, Israeli forces stationed at the military checkpoint established at the intersection of Beit ‘Our al-Foqa and al-Tahta villages, southwest of Ramallah, on the road between Jerusalem and Israel, opened fire at a vehicle. As a result, driver Ahmed Wajeeh Othman Jouda (18), was hit with 2 live bullets to the right leg and right lung. He also sustained shrapnel wounds to the shoulder. Israeli forces then closed the area and few moments later a PRCS ambulance arrived and offered first aid to the wounded person. The wounded person was then taken to Tsh’ari Tsedeq Hospital to receive medical treatment. Israeli forces claimed that Jouda attempted to run over the soldiers stationed at the checkpoint.

 

• At approximately 18:00, 9 Israeli undercover agents “Mosta’rebeen” sneaked by a vehicle used for selling vegetables into al-Nabi Saleh village, northwest of Ramallah. They raided a house belonging to Sharaf Fadel Tamim Tamimy (23). They beat with gun butts, pushed and kicked him. Sharaf was arrested and then taken to an unknown destination.

 Note:

During the aforementioned day, Israeli forces carried out 5 incursions in the following areas without reporting any arrests: Derasitya village, northwest of Salfit; al- Fawar refugee camp; Bani Na’iem village; and Sikaa and Tawous villages in Hebron.

 

Monday, 01 February 2016

 

• At approximately 01:30, Israeli forces moved into Nablus. They raided and searched many houses and arrested 2 civilians. The arrested persons were identified as Rawhi Ghasan Rashid Marmash (31), from al-Ma’ajeen neighbourhood, northwest of Nablus; and ‘Azmi Ghasan ‘Azmi al-‘Aqaad (20), from al-Jam’a street, west of Nablus.
• Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Beit Foreek village, east of Nablus. They raided and searched many houses. They arrested Saher Bassam Nasasra (21), and then withdrew taking him to an unknown destination.

 

• Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Beit ‘Awaa village, southwest of Dura, southwest of Hebron. They raided and searched 3 houses and arrested 2 children. The arrested children were identified as Mahmoud Fathi Qasem Masalma (17); and Jabreen Hasan Masalma (16). Moreover, Israeli forces handed Majdi Sameer Masalama (18), a summons to refer to the Israeli Intelligence service in “Gosh ‘Etzion” settlement complex, south of Bethlehem.
• At approximately 02:30, Israeli forces moved into Tulkarm and stationed in the southern neighbourhood. They raided and searched a house belonging to Bassam Jamil Saleh al-Fadawi (23) and arrested him. Israeli forces stationed in al-Salam neighbourhood, east of Tulkarm. They raided a house belonging to Mohammed Ibrahim Mohammed Badawi (27) and arrested him. After that, Israeli forces stationed in al-Malsat neighbourhood, north of Tulkarm, and raided and searched a house belonging to Ahmed Motleq Daj Balawna (29). They arrested him and his brother Saleh (25). Israeli forces withdrew later taking the arrested persons to an unknown destination.
• At approximately 03:30, Israeli forces moved into Hebron and stationed in al-Salam neighbourhood. They raided and searched 2 houses and arrested 2 civilians identified as Ali Abed al-Ghafar Dofash (21); and Sadam Mohammed al-Ja’bari (22).

 

• In the morning, Israeli forces killed Ahmed Hasan Abed al-Latif Touba (18), from Kufor Jamaal village, northeast of Qalqilya, while he was attempting to sneak into Israel through the annexation wall to find work. According to the PCHR’s investigations, the abovementioned persons tried to sneak through the annexation wall established between Kufor Jamaal village on the one hand and “Tzur Natan” and” Salit” settlements on the other hand. Israeli Border Guard officers saw someone trying to sneak in, so they chased and opened fire at him. As a result, he sustained bullet wounds to the chest, back and neck, so he immediately died. Israeli forces claimed that Touba sneaked through the annexation wall and when the soldiers saw him, they chased him. He then hid in the bushes. After identifying his location, he attempted to stab an Israeli soldier so they opened fire at him. There was no eyewitness in the area to refute the Israeli claims.
• At approximately 10:00, Israeli forces moved into ‘Ayda refugee camp, north of Bethlehem. They raided and searched a house belonging to Hamza al-Mashyekh. They arrested his son Mahmoud (23) and then withdrew taking him to an unknown destination.
• At approximately 19:30, Israeli forces moved into Qalqilya. They raided and searched a house belonging to Nabil Ali Haj Mohammed Hasayen (31). They arrested him and withdrew later taking him to an unknown destination.
• At approximately 21:30, a group of Israeli undercover agents “Mosta’rebeen” moved by a vehicle with a Palestinian registration plate into Qablan village, south of Nablus. The vehicle stopped in front of Samer telecom shop belonging to ‘Abed family in the centre of Nablus. Six undercover agents got out of the vehicle and raided the shop. They kidnapped 2 civilians identified as Abed al-Latif Hasan Abed al-Latif ‘Abed (18); and Mousa Saleh Abu Jouhar (18). Moreover, they confiscated a PC set, an iPad and a number of cell phones. They withdrew later taking the arrested persons with them leaving the shop open and empty. The shop’s owners knew about the incident, so they immediately went there and closed it. They then started looking for their brother and his friend Abu Jouhar. While they were looking for them in Talfeet valley area in the southern side of the village, they saw a car parking on the street at approximately 23:00. They approached the car to ask the passengers if they want any help. While they were talking with them, they realized that those persons were Israeli undercover agents. They then quickly escaped towards the village, but the vehicle chased them into the village and opened fire at them wounding two of them. The Israeli undercover agents arrested the wounded persons taking them to an unknown destination. The arrested persons were identifies as:

1. Samer Hasan Abed al-Latif ‘Abed (25), who was hit with a live bullet to the leg. He is the brother of the kidnapped Abed al- Latif.
2. Lawyer, Yousef Eizat Salem Shahrouj (24), who was hit with a live bullet to the leg. He is Samer’s friend.

Two hours after the arrest, Israeli forces stationed near Za’tara checkpoint released Abu Jouhar, who returned to the village and told Abed al-Rahman ‘Abed that the Israeli undercover agents arrested him along with his brother Abed al-Latif and took both of them to “Ariel” settlement, north of Salfit, while Abed al-Latif is so far under arrest.

• Around the same time, Israeli naval forces stationed off Dier al-Balah and al-Nusirat shore, in the center of the Gaza Strip, fired live bullets and flare bombs towards almost 50 fishing boats sailing within 5 nautical miles. The shooting have continued for an hour, due to which the fishermen were obliged to flee back to the shore. However, neither casualties nor damages were reported.

 

Note: During the aforementioned day, Israeli forces carried out 9 incursions in the following areas without reporting any arrests: Halhoul village; Yatta village; al-Majd village; al-Burj village; Deir Samet village in Hebron; Jaljilya village; Kherbitha Bani Harith village; Betin village; and Ras Karkar village in Ramallah and al-Bireh.

 

Tuesday, 02 February 2016

 

• At approximately 01:00, Israeli forces moved into Kafr al-Deek village, west of Salfit. Around 100 infantry soldiers surrounded two neighbourhoods in the village. They raided two houses belonging to the families of Rateb Mustafa al-Deek (60) and Ra’ed Hakim al-Ahmed (23) under the pretext of searching for weapons after forcing all the 2 houses’ residents to go out. Israeli forces arrested the two aforementioned civilians and later withdrew taking them to an unknown destination.

 

• At approximately 01:30, Israeli forces moved into a number of neighbourhoods in Hebron. They raided and searched 3 houses, from which they arrested Shawqi Fakhri Meswadah (30) and his brother Karam (34) and Ibrahim ‘Abdel Wahhab al-Atrash (24). Israeli forces later withdrew taking them to an unknown destination.

 

• At approximately 02:00, Israeli forces moved into al-Khader village, southwest of Bethlehem. They raided and searched a number of houses. They arrested Mansour Nasri Salah (18); Belal Mohammed Salah (15) and Khalil Khaled Salah (17) and later withdrew taking them to an unknown destination

 

• Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into al-Jalazone refugee camp, north of Ramallah. They raided and searched a house belonging to Mohammed Nizar Abu ‘Asab (29). They arrested the aforementioned civilian and later withdrew taking him to an unknown destination.

 

• At approximately 03:00, Israeli forces moved into Kufor Ne’amah village, west of Ramallah. They raided and searched a number of houses. They arrested 3 civilians and later withdrew taking them to an unknown destination. The arrested civilians were identified as Samer ‘Abdel Jaber Abu Ishtayah (19); Faris Abu Ishtayaah (23) and ‘Abdoh ‘Aziz ‘Abdel Qader (20). They handed Tamer Mohammed ‘Ata ‘Ataya (19) a summons to refer to the Israeli Intelligence service.

 

• At approximately 03:30, Israeli forces moved into Dura, southwest of Hebron and stationed in al-Shorfah neighbourhood. They raided and searched a house belonging to Ahmed Khalil al-Sharawnah. They arrested his son Khalil (18) and later withdrew taking him to an unknown destination.

 

• At approximately 09:00, Israeli forces raided and searched a house belonging to ‘Awni ‘Emad Abu Shamsah (16) in Tal al-Ramidah neighbourhood in the centre of Hebron. They arrested the aforementioned civilian and later withdrew taking him to an unknown destination.

 

• At approximately 13:30, five students from al-Hashemiyah School in al-Tawil Mount area adjacent to “Psagot” settlement established on Palestinian lands in al-Bireh were on their way back home. One of them threw a stone at the settlement fence. The Israeli soldiers stationed in the watchtower established at the entrance to the settlement fired around 12 bullets at them. As a result, one of them was hit with a bullet to the left side and was taken by a civilian car to Palestine Medical Complex in the city for medical treatment. He underwent a surgery in the abdomen. He is so far in the Intensive Care Unit and his condition is stable.

 

• At approximately 23:30, Israeli forces moved into al-Heryah neighbourhood, south of Hebron. They raided and searched a house belonging to Nizer Salhab al-Tamimi (15) and arrested him.

 

Note: During the aforementioned day, Israeli forces carried out 5 incursions in the following areas without reporting any arrests: al-‘Arroub refugee camp and villages of Beit Kahel, Tarqoumia, Deir Samit and al-Kom in Hebron

 

Wednesday, 03 February 2016

 

• At approximately 01:00, Israeli forces moved into Sayda village, north of Tulkarm. Israeli forces raided and searched a house belonging to Maher Mohammed ‘Abdel Hadi al-Ashqar (51), who is the father of Zaid Maher Mohammed al-Ashqar (18) that was shot and wounded by Israeli forces on 11 January 2016 at Hermish checkpoint that is established on the bypass road between Jenin and Tulkarm’s northern villages, southwest of Jenin, next to “Hermish” settlement. Israeli forces claimed that time that Zaid attempted to stab Israeli soldiers stationed at the checkpoint. They arrested his brother Suhaib (26) as well. The house’s owner said to a PCHR fieldworker that the Israeli soldiers stole NIS 2000 from his house while searching it.

 

• Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Sa’ir village, east of Hebron. They raided and searched two houses belonging to the families of Jamal Hussein al-Tardah (55) and Jalal Kamal al-Tardah (30). They arrested the two aforementioned civilians and alter withdrew taking him to an unknown destination.

 

• At approximately 01:30, Israeli forces moved into Beit ‘Awwa village, southwest of Dura, southwest of Hebron. They raided and searched a house belonging to Yazan ‘Abdullah Shalash Masalmah (17). They arrested the aforementioned civilian and later withdrew taking him to an unknown destination.

 

• At approximately 02:30, Israeli forces moved into Jenin and Jenin refugee camp adjacent to the city. They raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Sa’id Hashim Sa’id Natour (21), who was not home then. The Israeli soldiers then raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Mohammed Khalil al-Sa’di (18) and arrested him.

 

• Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Sorif village, northwest of Hebron. They raided and searched a house belonging to ‘Ali Ahmed Hassan al-
  Heih (25). The Israeli soldiers arrested the aforementioned civilian and later withdrew taking him to an unknown destination.

 

• At approximately 03:00, Israeli forces moved into ‘Aydah refugee camp, north of Bethlehem. They raided and searched a number of houses. Moreover, they arrested Khalil ‘Abdel Rahman Rashid Abu Sorour (22); Farouq Ma’moun Budeir (23) and Khalil Mousa al-‘Aq (23) and later withdrew taking them to an unknown destination.

 

• At approximately 03:30, Israeli forces moved into Beit Ummar village, north of Hebron. They stationed in Za’atah neighbourhood and then raided and searched a house belonging to ‘Omer Ahmed ‘Issa ‘Awad (31). They arrested the aforementioned civilian, confiscated a laptop and later withdrew taking him to an unknown destination.

 

• At approximately 04:30, Israeli forces moved into al-Fawar refugee camp, south of Hebron. They raided and searched a house belonging to Mohammed Bassam Ghatashah (17). They arrested the aforementioned civilian and later withdrew taking him to an unknown destination.

 

• At approximately 07:00, Israeli gunboats opened fire at two fishing boats off Gaza Valley shore and sailing within 5 nautical miles. The first boat was manned by Mohammed Sa’id Fathi al-Sa’iedi (24) and his brother Mahmoud (22), while the second boat was manned by Sayed Merwan ‘Awad al-Sa’idi (31) and Jihad Sayed Ahmed Kaskeen (20). The gunboats opened fire at both boats and surrounded them. They then forced the four Palestinian fishermen to take their clothes off and swim in the cold water towards one of the gunboats. They arrested the fishermen and took them to Ashdod Seaport. The Israeli naval forces confiscated both fishing boats and the fishing equipment. At approximately 21:00, Israeli forces released 3 fishermen while Mahmoud Sa’id al-Sa’iedi is so far under detention.

 

• At approximately 07:20, Israeli forces moved 100 meters into the east of al-Fokhari village to the east of Khan Youn in the southern Gaza Strip. They levelled and dug lands along the borders for hours and then redeployed along the border fence.

 

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

 West Bank:  

• Following the Friday prayer, on 29 January 2016, dozens of Palestinian young men gathered at the southern entrance to al-Jalazoun refugee camp, north of Ramallah, near an UNRWA school for boys, 300 meters away from the fence of “Beit Eil” settlement, to organize a peaceful demonstration in protest against the Israeli attacks in the oPt. The demonstrators threw stones at the settlement fence, due to which, Israeli forces stationed in the area fired live ammunition, rubber-coated metal bullets, sound bombs and tear gas canisters at the protesters and then chased them into the camp. As a result, 2 civilians were wounded and then taken to the Palestine Medical Complex in Ramallah to receive medical treatment. The first one (37), sustained shrapnel wounds to the left side of his face, and the second one (23), was hit with a live bullet to the left ankle.
• On Friday afternoon, dozens of young men gathered in the vicinity of Ofer Prison, west of Ramallah, to organize a demonstration against the Israeli policies and settler attacks. The protesters then made their way to the prison gate, so the Israeli forces closed the gate and deployed in the area. The protesters set fire to rubber tires and threw stones and empty bottles at the Israeli soldiers, who immediately fired live ammunition, rubber-coated metal bullets, sound bombs and tear gas canisters. As a result, 5 civilians were wounded, 2 of whom were hit with live bullets, and the 2 others were hit with rubber-coated metal bullets, while the fifth was hit with a sound bomb to the face.

 

Gaza Strip:

 

• At approximately 14:30 on Friday, 08 January 2016, Israeli forces stationed along the border fence between the Gaza Strip and Israel, fired live bullets, rubber-coated metal bullets and tear gas canisters at dozens of young men gathered near the fence, east of al-Shuhada cemetery in the east of Jabalya refugee camp, north of the Gaza Strip. The protesters threw stones at the soldiers in protest at the Israeli attacks against the Palestinian civilians in Jerusalem and the West Bank. As a result of the clashes that continued until 17:30, 6 civilians, including a child, were wounded. Three of them were hit with live bullets and the 3 others were hit with rubber-coated metal bullets. Five of the wounded persons were taken to al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza City, while the sixth, who is from Jabalia refugee camp, was taken to the Indonesian Hospital in Beit Lahia, where his injury ranged between moderate and minor.

 

Demonstrations against the annexation wall and settlement activities

 

• Following the Friday prayer, on 29 January 2016, dozens of Palestinian civilians, Israeli and international human rights activists and Palestinians from al-Nabi Saleh village, organized a peaceful demonstration in the centre of al-Shuhada Square in al-Nabi Saleh village, northwest of Ramallah, in protest at the Israeli settlement activities. Israeli forces closed all the village’s entrances to prevent the Israeli and international human rights activists from participating in the protest. When the protestors approached the area, Israeli forces fired live bullets, rubber-coated metal bullets, sound bombs and tear gas canisters in response. As a result, an Israeli solidarity activist and a Palestinian civilian were wounded. Both of them were taken to Yaser Arafat Hospital in Salfit to receive medical treatment. The first civilian (20), was hit with a rubber-coated metal bullet to the leg, while the Israeli solidarity activist Jonathal Oulak (40), was hit with a rubber-coated metal bullet to the left leg.

 

• Following the Friday prayer, dozens of Palestinian civilians and Israeli and international human rights activists organized a demonstration in protest at the Israeli settlement in Bil’in and Ni’lin villages, west of Ramallah. The Israeli forces used force to disperse the protesters by firing live bullets, rubber-coated metal bullets, tear gas canisters and sound bombs at the protesters and chased them into agricultural fields. As a result, many civilians suffered tear gas inhalation and others sustained bruises as Israeli soldiers beat them up.

 Note: PCHR keeps the names of the injured persons in the aforementioned demonstrations. Rubber-coated metal bullets are lethally if they hit the head of victim from a close range. 

3. Continued closure of the oPt

 

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

 

Gaza Strip

 

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

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

 

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

 

 

Date	Imports
	Category	Amount
		Tons	Number	Liters
26 January	Various goods	1,745
	Humanitarian aid	13,516
	Cooking gas	112,860
	Benzene			38,000
	Diesel			259,900
	Industrial fuel			602,370
	Construction aggregates	11,360
	Construction steel	900
27 January	Various goods	924
	Humanitarian aid	8,661
	Cooking gas	246,890
	Diesel			327,009
	Industrial fuel			932,016
	Construction aggregates	6,680
	Construction steel	750
28 January	Various goods	4,877.38
	Humanitarian aid	21,054
	Cooking gas	22,520
	Benzene			114,000
	Diesel			334,015
	Industrial fuel			769,623
	Construction aggregates	7,480
	Cement	2,920
	Construction steel	600
31 January	Various goods	3,589
	Humanitarian aid	22,113
	Cooking gas	264,730
	Benzene			38,003
	Diesel			108,000
	Industrial fuel			422,000
	Construction aggregate	15,720
	Cement	4,960
	Construction steel	420
01 February	Various goods	3,477
	Humanitarian aid	21,160
	Cooking gas	243,300
	Benzene			370,990
	Diesel Diesel for UNRWA			965,032 76,000
	Construction aggregates	16,240
	Cement	4,800
	Construction steel	420

 Exports:

 

• On Tuesday, 26 January 2016, Israeli forces allowed the exportation of 21 truckloads of vegetables.
• On Wednesday, 28 January 2016, Israeli forces allowed the exportation of 2 truckloads of strawberries and 15 truckloads of vegetables.
• On Thursday, 31 January 2016, Israeli forces allowed the exportation of a truckload of strawberries; 3 truckloads of tomatoes; a truckload of cucumbers; a truckload of sweet peppers; a truckload of peppers; a truckload of eggplants; a truckload of cabbages; a truckload of Rutab dates and 1.9 tons of zucchinis.
• On Monday, 01 February 2016, Israeli forces allowed the exportation of a truckload of fish; a truckload of furniture and a truckload of lemons.

 

BeitHanoun (“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

27 January – 02 February 2016

 

Category	27 January	28 January	29 January	30 January	31 January	01 February	02 February
Patients	69	57	1	–	92	52	84
Companions	67	55	2	–	91	57	76
Personal needs	63	122	26	–	153	86	94
Families of prisoners	–	–	–	–	–	35	–
Arabs from Israel	12	3	5	–	6	11	3
Diplomats	–	5	–	–	–	1	–
International journalists	–	–	–	–	–	–	–
International workers	51	45	7	–	8	32	33
Travelers abroad	8	7	1	–	16	4	38
Business people	335	442	6	–	673	408	332
Business meetings	–	–	–	–	–	–	–
Security interviews	20	19	–	–	15	10	15
VIPs	1	–	–	–	–	1	2
Ambulances to Israel	4	2	4	–	6	1	5
Patients’ Companions	4	1	2	–	6	1	4

 Notes: 

• On Friday, 29 January 2016, Israeli authorities allowed 181 Palestinians to travel via Beit Hanoun crossing to perform prayers in al-Aqsa Mosque.
• On Wednesday, 27 January 2016, Israeli authorities allowed a famer and another famer on Thursday, 28 January 2016 to attend an agricultural course in Israel.
• On Wednesday, 27 January 2016; Thursday, 28 January 2016; and Sunday, 31 January 2016, Israeli authorities allowed 1, 6 and 3 civilians respectively to renew their permits.
• On Thursday, 28 January 2016, Israeli authorities one person working in the Civil Affairs Department to attend a meeting at the crossing.

 

Student arrested at Beit Hanoun crossing, north of the Gaza Strip

 

• At approximately 17:00 on Tuesday, 02 February 2016, Israeli forces stationed at Beit Hanoun crossing, north of the Gaza Strip, arrested student Mohammed Abdul Karim Mohammed al-Assar (29), from Deir al-Balah, in the central Gaza Strip, while traveling to join the Mid East Aviation Academy in Jordan. According to Mohammed’s father, Mohammed received an admission decision from the Academy and then applied for a permit through Beit Hanoun crossing. The Israeli side granted him a permit to be interviewed at the crossing on Monday, 01 February 2016. He went for the interview on the aforementioned date, but he was detained until 22:00. He was then released on condition that he returns on the next day with his bag to travel soon after. At approximately 08:00, on the aforementioned date, Mohammed headed to the crossing, but he was arrested in the evening.

 West Bank

 

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 18 checkpoints all over the city. On Thursday, 28 January 2016, Israeli forces established 3 checkpoints at the southern entrance to Hebron connected with Bypass Road 60 and the entrances to Sa’ir and Ethna villages.

On Friday, 29 January 2016, Israeli forces established 4 checkpoints at the entrances to Sa’ir village, the southern entrance to Halhoul; the northern entrance to Hebron connected with Bypass Road 35 and entrance to Beit Kahel and Tafouh villages.

On Sunday, 31 January 2016, Israeli forces established 2 checkpoints at the northern entrance to Yata and entrance to Ethna village.

On Monday, 01 February 2016, Israeli forces established 4 checkpoints at the entrances to al-Thaheriyah, Na’im, al-Samou’a and Taramah villages.

 

Ramallah and al-Bireh: Israeli forces established 16 checkpoints all over the city. On Thursday, 28 January 2016, Israeli forces established 3 checkpoints at the entrance to Deir Abu Mash’al village, northwest of Ramallah; entrance to Senjel village and under the bridge of Yabroud village, northeast of the city. At approximately 11:30, Israeli forces closed the road between the villages of Deir Ibzeigh and Ras Karkar, west of Ramalalh with cement blocks.

On Friday, 29 January 2016, Israeli forces established at the entrance to al-Nabi Saleh village, northwest of Ramallah, and near the intersection of Beit Ur al-Foqa village, southwest of Ramallah.

On Saturday, 30 January 2016, Israeli forces established 3 checkpoints at the intersection of Beit Ur al-Foqa village; under the bridge of Kherbetha al-Mesbah village and under the bridge of Beit Sira village, southwest of Ramallah.

On Sunday, 31 January 2016, Israeli forces established 3 checkpoints at the entrance to al-Nabi Saleh village, northwest of Ramallah, ‘Atarah Bridge at the northern entrance to Birzeit; northern entrance to ‘Ein Sinia village; entrance to Termes’aya, north of the city and at the intersection of Beit Ur al-Foqa village. At approximately 21:00, Israeli soldiers stationed at the checkpoint established under the bridge of Kherbetha al-Mesbah village beat up Mohammed Yehia Isma’il ‘Abeid (25) on his back and insulted him as well as his brother Yousif (23) when they were on their way back from Beit Ur al-Tahta village to their house in Beit Loqaya village. The soldiers mocked both of them when Mohammed showed them a card saying he is a pharmacist.

On Monday, 01 February 2016, Israeli forces established 2 checkpoints under the bridge of Yabrud village and at the intersection of “‘Ofrah” settlement, northeast of Ramallah. On Tuesday, 02 February 2016, they established 3 checkpoints at the intersection of “‘Ofrah” settlement; at the eastern entrance to al-Nabi Saleh village, northwest of the city and under the bridge of ‘Atarah at the northern entrance to Brizeit, north of Ramallah.

 

• Jenin: At approximately 11:00 on Wednesday, 03 February 2016, Israeli forces established 2 checkpoints on the main road between Jenin and Nablus near the intersection of ‘Arrabah village and near the intersection of Jaba village, south of Jenin. Around the same time, Israeli forces closed all entrances to Qabatia village, southeast of Jenin, with checkpoints. The Israeli soldiers stationed at the checkpoints prevented cars from travelling and checked the passengers’ IDs.
• Qalqilya: on Thursday, 28 January 2016, Israeli forces established 4 checkpoints at the entrance to Jeensafout village; at the intersection of “Karne Shimron” settlement; at the entrance to ‘Ezbet al-Tabib village, east of Qalqilya and at the eastern entrance to the city. At approximately 16:20 on Friday, 29 January 2016, Israeli forces established a checkpoint between the villages of al-Fondoq and Hejah, east of Qalqilya.

 

Tulkarm: At approximately 08:30 on Thursday, 28 January 2016, Israeli forces stationed at ‘Inab Checkpoint established on the main road between Tulkarm and Nablus, east of Tulkarm, tightened their arbitrary restrictions against Palestinian civilians and obstructed their movement at the aforementioned checkpoint. The restrictions recurred at approximately 20:30 on the same day.

At approximately 19:30 on Monday, 01 February 2016, Israeli forces established a checkpoint near the eastern entrance to Baqah village, north of Tulkarm.

 

Arrests at military checkpoints

 

• On Thursday, 28 January 2016, Israeli forces stationed at al-Karamah crossing between the West Bank and Jordan arrested Mohammed Najib Mustafa Nazzal (33), from Qabatia village, south of Jenin, while traveling to Jordan. Brother of Nazzal said that when Mohammed was at the crossing on his way to Jordan; Israeli forces arrested him and took him to an unknown destination.

 

• On Friday morning, 28 January 2016, Israeli forces stationed at checkpoints arrested 3 Palestinian civilians, including a child, when the later were in East Jerusalem, as they were accused of not holding permits to enter the city. The arrested persons were identified as Mahmoud ‘Issa Najajrah (24); ‘Abdel Halim Mahmoud Najajrah (23) and Ra’ed Ibrahim Najajrah (17), who are all from Nahalin village, west of Bethlehem.

 

• On Saturday, 30 January 2016, Israeli forces established a checkpoint on the main road between Nablus and Jenin near the intersection of ‘Arrabah, south of Jenin. They stopped all vehicles travelling in both directions. When a car travelled by Anis Mahmoud Anis ‘Issa (40) and Yousif Hasan Ahmed Abu Jalboush, who are both from ‘Arrabah village, was crossing the checkpoint, the Israeli forces obliged both of them to get out of the car. They were both arrested and then taken to an unknown destination.

 

• At approximately 05:00 on Monday, 01 February 2016, Israeli forces stationed at Tarqoumia crossing, west of Hebron, arrested 7 Palestinian workers from al-Shyuoukh village, east of Hebron, when they were on their way to their workplaces in Israel. All of them were taken to an unknown destination. They were later identified as Mohammed Ibrahim ‘Abdel Jawad Halayqah; Yousif Mohammed Mahmoud ‘Ayaydah; Bahaa’ Mohammed Zain ‘Aweidat; Fadi Mohammed Ibrahim ‘Aweidat; Mohammed Sami Thalji ‘Aweidat; Mohammed Mustafa ‘Ali S’eifan and Mohammed Maher ‘Azazmah.

 

• At approximately 22:50 on the same day, Israeli forces arrested 3 Palestinian civilians, including a child, near the gate of the annexation wall established on Palestinian lands of ‘Azoun ‘Etmah village, south of Qalqilya, while attempting to enter Israel to work there. They were taken to an unknown destination and were identified as Mohammed Abu Salim (17); Nedal Abu Salim (20) and Mahyoub ‘Othman ‘Odah (22), who are all from Ras ‘Atiyah village.

 

• On Tuesday afternoon, 02 February 2016, Israeli forces established a checkpoint on the main road between Nablus and Jenin, south of Jenin. They stopped all vehicles travelling in both directions and checked the passengers’ IDs. When a car travelled by ‘Abdullah Mahmoud Raghed Zayoud (24) from Seilet al-Harithiyah village, northwest of Jenin, was crossing the checkpoint, he was forced to get out of the car. He was arrested and then taken to an unknown destination.

 

• On Wednesday afternoon, 03 February 2016, Israeli forces stationed at al-Karamah crossing between the West Bank and Jordan arrested Taha Hussein Ahmed al-‘Aleimi (32) when he was on his way back from Jordan.

 

4. 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

 

• At approximately 13:40 on Wednesday, 03 February 2016, Israeli Border Guard officers shot dead 3 Palestinian civilians claiming that they carried out an attack with knives, riffles and explosives against Israeli soldiers in al-‘Amoud (Damascus) Gate in the Old City of East Jerusalem. The killed persons were identified as Ahmed Najeh Isma’il Zakarnah (20) from Jenin; Ahmed Najeh ‘Abdulatif Abu al-Rub (20) and Mohammed Ahmed Mohammed Kmeil (19), who are both from Qabatya village, southeast of the city.

Luba al-Somari, spokesperson of the Israeli police, said that the three Palestinian young men had drew the attention of Israeli Border Guard officers once they approached al-‘Amoud Gate. She added they were stopped by the officers, and as one showed his ID, another pulled out a riffle and opened fire. As a result, two female Border Guard officers were wounded and then evacuated for medical treatment.

 

Incursions and arrests

 

• At approximately 01:00 on Thursday, 28 January 2016, Israeli forces moved into al-‘Issawiyah village, northeast of occupied Jerusalem. They arrested Tamer Ahmed Rabi’a (14) and Akram Mahmoud Mustafa (15) and later withdrew taking them to an unknown destination.

 

• At approximately 02:00, Israeli forces raided a house belonging to the family of Khaled ‘Issa in Sho’afat neighbourhood, north of occupied Jerusalem. They arrested his son Khaled (15) and later withdrew taking him to an unknown destination.

 

• At approximately 04:00, Israeli forces moved into a number of neighbourhoods in Jerusalem’s Old City. They raided and searched dozens of houses and arrested seven civilians, including a child. The arrested persons were identified as Nabil Naser ‘Abdel Latif (24); Mahmoud Naser (21); Mohammed al-Disi (23); Saleh Sandouqah (18); Bahaa’ ‘Ezat Najib (22); ‘Omer Za’anin (19) and Shadi ‘Atiyah (16). All of them were later taken to an unknown destination.

 

• At approximately 03:00 on Friday, 29 January 2016, large force of Israeli soldiers raided the campus of al-Quds University in East Jerusalem. They raided rooms belonging to the university student unions after detaining the security guards in a room and forcing them not to leave. The Israeli soldiers then damaged the advertising materials belonging to the students and some furniture. They also confiscated a number of PC sets.

Dr. ‘Emad Abu Keshek, President of al-Quds University, said that a large force of Israeli soldiers raided the main university campus in Abu Dis after detaining the security guards in a room and forcing them not to leave. They then searched many departments in the university campus, damaged some contents and confiscated others. He added the soldiers raided the university’s Islamic Studies Department, as well as its student union office. They also confiscated contents related to the student union’s cultural activities and services.

 

• On Saturday afternoon, 30 January 2016, Israeli forces arrested Monther Talal Khalil (16) and Mohammed Taysir Taha (13), who are both from Sho’afat refugee camp, north of Jerusalem, on suspicion of stabbing an Israeli settler in al-‘Amoud Gate area in East Jerusalem’s Old City. The Israeli police claimed they arrested two minors on suspicions of stabbing a settler. The later were taken to a police station for interrogation depending on a photo of one of the two suspects taken by the Israeli police cameras. The Israeli police also claimed the settler sustained moderate wounds. In the meanwhile, an eyewitness said that large numbers of Israeli police deployed in the streets of Jerusalem’s Old City and its surrounding streets (al-Sultan Suliman, al-Mesrarah, Nablus and Salah al-Deen), searched the young men there and took their ID numbers. They also closed the Old City gates of al-‘Amoud, al-Saherah and Hebron and established checkpoints in the areas of al-Tour and the French Hill at the entrances to Silwan. Furthermore, they stopped vehicles and checked the passengers’ IDs.

 

• At approximately 20:00, Israeli forces arrested Yazan Amin Siam (21) after beating him while he was walking near al-Magharbah Gate in Jerusalem’s Old City. They then took him to al-Selselah Gate police station for interrogation. Siam said that Israeli police officers stopped him near al-Maghabrah Gate in the afternoon and checked his ID. While being searched in the area, Yazan was insulted and kicked by Israeli soldiers. When Siam attempted to push the police officer away, another officer directly sprayed pepper gas on his face. Siam added that the police handcuffed him behind his back and beat him up. They threatened him with the stun gun and transferred him to Al-Selselah Gate police station. Inside the station, seven officers attacked and assaulted him. After that, he was taken to Al-Buraq Square and then transferred to Al-Qashalah police station in a police vehicle where he was also beaten up. Siam also said that the police officers forced him to sit on his knees for three hours while his hands and legs were cuffed. When he was interrogated, he was accused of “assaulting a policeman and obstructing police work”. Siam denied the charges against him and explained to the interrogator how he was attacked noting that the attack traces were clear on his face and hands. The interrogator decided to release Siam on condition of deporting him out of Jerusalem and placing him under house-arrest.

 

• At approximately 01:00 on Sunday, 31 January 2016, Israeli forces moved into a number of neighbourhoods in East Jerusalem’s Old City. They raided and searched a number of houses, from which Mohammed Hoshiyah (13) and Mohammed Isma’il Sweiti (16) were arrested. They were both taken to an unknown destination.

 

• At approximately 11:00 on the aforementioned Sunday, Israeli forces arrested ‘Issa Salhab (55), the supervisor of al-Aqsa Mosque renovation, when he was renovating a terrace in the mosque in Jerusalem’s Old City. They took him to al-Selselah Gate police station and then transferred him to al-Qashalah police station for interrogation.

 

• At approximately 15:00, Israeli forces arrested Dawoud ‘Ata Rayan (24) after stopping his vehicle in al-Sheikh Jarrah neighbourhood, north of Jerusalem. They took him to an unknown destination.

 

• At approximately 16:00, a patrol of Israeli soldiers ran over Belal ‘Alawi (37) while walking in Ras al-‘Amoud neighbourhood, east of Jerusalem’s Old City. As a result, he sustained moderate wounds and was then taken to “Hadassah – Ein Karem” Hospital in West Jerusalem to receive medical treatment.

 

• At approximately 18:00, Israeli forces arrested Qassem al-Natshah (16) while walking in ‘Ain al-Lawzah neighbourhood in Silwan village, south of Jerusalem’s Old City. They then took him to an unknown destination.

 

• At approximately 22:00, Israeli forces raided and searched a house belonging to ‘Issa al-Salaymah in al-Joz Valley neighbourhood, east of East Jerusalem’s Old City. They handed his son Ahmed (19) a summons to refer to the Israeli Intelligence service in al-Qashala police station.

 

• At approximately 01:00 on Monday, 01 February 2016, Israeli forces moved into al-Thawri neighbourhood, south of the Old City. They raided and searched a number of houses and arrested Mohammed ‘Issa Qotob (16) and ‘Alaa’ Nader Bazlamit (13). They then took him to an unknown destination.

 

• At approximately 13:00 on Monday, Israeli forces arrested Burhan Mohammed Abu Shokor (14) when he was in Bab al-‘Amoud area in the Old City under the pretext of having a knife. They took him to al-Qashalah police station. Parents of Abu Shokor, who lives in Sho’afat refugee camp, north of the city, were not allowed to attend the interrogation with their son, so he was alone for hours. His detention was extended to the next day to appear before the court.

 

• At approximately 01:00 on Tuesday, 02 February 2016, large fore of Israeli soldiers backed by dozens of military vehicles moved into al-‘Izzariyah village, east of Jerusalem. They stationed in Ras al-Bustan neighbourhood. They raided and searched dozens of houses amidst the soldiers firing of rubber-coated metal bullets and gas canisters at civilians and houses. The Israeli forces carried out a wide-scale arrest campaign in the village and arrested 10 civilians. The arrested were identified as Mohammed Ahmed al-Mokahal (25); Mohammed Yazid Hamdan (19); ‘Ali Ibrahim Far’on (54); ‘Abdullah Hisham Shatarah (21); Amir Hasan Shatarah (22); Mohammed Shatarah (19); Mustafa Hani al-Yasini (24); Marwan Ra’ouf Basah (23); Nayef Ahmed al-Khatib (22) and Ashraf Mohammed al-Yasini (23).

 

• At approximately 03:00, on the aforementioned day, Israeli forces moved into al-‘Issawiyah village, northeast of Jerusalem. They raided and searched a number of houses and arrested 3 children. The arrested persons were identified as Fathi Monir Fathi Dweik (14); Nadim Ahmed Zahrah (15) and Anas ‘Ali Abu ‘Asab (16).

 

• At approximately 05:00, Israeli forces raided and searched a house belonging to Wajih al-Natshah in al-Wad neighbourhood in the Old City. They arrested his son Bassem (20) and took him to an unknown destination.

 

House demolitions and demolition notices:

 

• At approximately 05:00 on Monday, 01 February 2016, Israeli municipality bulldozers demolished a house belonging to Eyad Abu Mahamid in Hummus Valley area in Sour Baher village, south of East Jerusalem, under the pretext of not obtaining a building permit from the municipality.

Eyad explained that the house was 200 square meters and consisted of 4 bedrooms, a kitchen, a bathroom and a living room. He started building the house 7 months ago and planned to move in the day it was demolished. He added, “We were supposed to bring the furniture today and move in, but the bulldozers demolished it in the early morning without prior notice. “ He added, “My family consists of 7 members, including 5 children; the oldest of whom is 12 years old and the youngest is one year old.” Abu Mahamid explained that the Israeli forces raided the house after removing the main door. He pointed out that municipality crews pinned a demolition notice on his house 4 months ago. He attempted to obtain a building permit but was surprised with the demolition that morning.

 

• At approximately 07:00 on Tuesday, Israeli mentality bulldozers demolished a house belonging to Yehia Muhsen in Qaddoum Valley in Silwan village, south of East Jerusalem’s Old City under the pretext of having no building permit. It should be noted that the house is 220 square meters. Muhsen started the construction near his house 7 months ago. he explained that he intended to move in with his family of 8 members because of the lack of space in his nearby family house.

 

• At approximately 07:00 on Wednesday, 03 February 2016, Israeli municipality bulldozers demolished an automobile repair shop belonging to Haitham Mohammed ‘Ali Mustafa in al-‘Issawiyah village, northeast of occupied Jerusalem, under the pretext of having no building permit. The aforementioned civilian said that the 400-square-meter shop was built of bricks and roofed with tin plates a year ago. That shop was also supporting 2 families; Mustafa’s family of 8 members and another one. Mustafa said, “Israeli bulldozers levelled the garage and prevented us from taking out the equipment. Moreover, they damaged the vehicles we were repairing inside and then levelled the land on which the garage was established.”

 

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

 

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

 

Settlement activities

 

• At approximately 13:00 on Sunday, 31 January 2016, Israeli forces accompanied with a vehicle belonging to the Israeli Construction and Organization Department in the Civil Administration and a truck mounted-crane moved into al-Sheikh area adjacent to Beit Ummar village, north of Hebron. They stationed in the vicinity of an under-construction house of 160 square meters belonging to Usamah Mohammed Salem al-‘Allami. They deployed around the house while the civil administration officers confiscated some of the construction steel, concrete mixer, and five construction block containers estimated of NIS 13,000. The Civil Administration officer handed the house owner a notice to stop the construction works.

 

• At approximately 12:30 on Monday, 01 February 2016, Israeli forces backed by two Volvo bulldozers and a digger moved into ‘Ain Ayoub area in Deir ‘Ammar village, northwest of Ramallah. They immediately levelled residential tents and a livestock barn belonging to 3 Palestinian families, including farmers and shepherds from ‘Arab al-Jahalin. The three families are comprised of 17 members, including 11 children. The demolitions were as follows:

1. Sayyah Mousa ‘Ali Jahalin (41): Israeli forces uprooted his 100-square-meter residential tent, where nine family members live, and a 40 square-meter livestock barn;
2. ‘Abdullah Mousa Jahalin (29): Israeli forces uprooted a 60-square-meter residential tent, where five family members live.
3. Ahmed Mousa Jahalin (29): Israeli forces uprooted a 60-square-meter residential tent, where four family members live.
4. A 40-square-meter tent used as a kitchen for the 3 families.

 

• At approximately 06:00 on Tuesday, 02 February 2016, Israeli Border Guard officers accompanied by 4 vehicles belonging to the Israeli Construction and Organization Department in the Civil Administration, two bulldozers and a GCB digger moved into Kherbet Janbah to the southeast of Yata, southwest of Hebron, which is located in an area classified by Israeli authorities as “Shooting areas 918”. The Israeli soldiers deployed between the dwellings, which are tents, caves and rooms that were built in 2015 and funded by the DCF. The Israeli bulldozers started demolishing a number of residential rooms under the pretext of having no construction permits. They also demolished a number of residential rooms in Kherbet al-Halawah to the north of Kherbet Janabah in addition to two rooms in Beir al-Ghawanmah area in the vicinity of the two Kherbas. The Civil Administration officers threatened and forced Samir Mohammed Hasan Hamadah (32) to remove the tin-made roof of his 70-square-meter house and demolished a 30-square-meter tent used as a kitchen located in Kherbet al-Fakhit area within al-Masafer area.

It should be mentioned that Israeli authorities handed civilians notices to stop construction works and demolish residential rooms in 2015 and ordered them to refer to the Israeli courts to correct their legal status. According to the residents, “Saint-Eve” Association asked the court to postpone the decision in order to challenge it, but the court refused.

The noticed dwellings were as follows:

 

Owner	Age	Dwelling	Area	Family members	Children
‘Ali Mohammed Mahmoud Jabarin	54	Two residential rooms in Janabah	60 square meters	4	2
Mohammed ‘Ali Mohammed Jabarin	25	A residential room in Janabah	30 square meters	2	0
Nabil Hussein Mahmoud Jabarin	44	3 residential rooms in Janabah	30 square meters *3	14	9
Wajihah Rashed Jabarin	76	A residential room in Janabah	36 square meters	1	0
Mahmoud Ahmed ‘Issa Ahmed	30	A residential room Toilet in Janabah	30 square meters 2 square meters	6	4
Mousa Ibrahim Mousa Younis	42	2 residential rooms in Janabah	48 square meters *2	8	6
Mariam Shehadah Mohammed	70	A residential room in Janabah	30 square meters	1	0
Belal Ahmed ‘Issa Ahmed	28	A residential room in Janabah	35 square meters	5	3
Wasim ‘Issa Ahmed Mohammed	25	A residential room in Janabah	35 square meters	4	2
‘Issa Younis Mohammed Abu ‘Aram	40	A residential room Toilet in Janabah	35 square meters 2 square meters	14	7
Maher Ahmed ‘Issa Ahmed	42	2 residential rooms Toilet in Janabah	40 square meters*2 2 square meters	10	8
Mohammed Jabrin Mousa Rab’ie	45	Residential room Residential room in al-Ghwanmah	50square meters 4 square meters	5	3
Ahmed Isma’il Abu ‘Aram	44	A residential room in al-Halawah	25 square meters	7	3
Jabrin Ahmed Isma’il	38	A residential room in al-Halawah	30 square meters	4	2
Isma’il Mohammed Abu ‘Aram	47	A residential room in al-Halawah	30 square meters	13	3
Khalil Younis Abu ‘Aram	27	A residential room in al-Halawah	30 square meters	4	2
‘Ali Mohammed Abu ‘Aram	37	A residential room in al-Halawah	45 square meters	12	7
Hussein ‘Ali Abu ‘Aram	26	A residential room in al-Halawah	18 square meters	2	0
Jamil Younis Abu ‘Aram	47	A residential room Toilet	30 square meters 2 square meters	12	6
Hani Khalil Younis	29	A residential room	30 Square room	4	2

Israeli settler attacks 

• At approximately 01:25 on 01 February 2016, Israeli settlers fired 3 bullets at a house belonging to Mohammed Ibrhaim Abu Zaid from Deir Istaya village, northwest of Salfit.   It should be mentioned that the house is located on the outskirts of the village next to Deir Isstayyah village entrance on Qana Valley Road surrounded with some settlements and outposts.

 

Sa’id Zidan, Mayor of Deir Istaya village, said to a PCHR fieldworker that:

“At approximately 01:30 on Tuesday, 01 February 2016, while I was at home I heard a sound of 3 bullets fired consecutively. I ascended to my house roof to see what was going on in the area. I then saw a vehicle rushing through the entrance of a house belonging to Mohammed Abu Zaid and leaving the main street. In the morning, I received a call from the house owners telling me that they saw a settlers’ vehicle leaving their house after opening fire at the house. This was not the first time the settlers attack Abu Zaid’s house as they attack it on weekly basis due to its location on the outskirts of the village. Moreover, there are no residents in the area but the Abu Zaid family.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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 obligation to ensure the application of the Conventions, including extending the scope of their jurisdiction in order to prosecute suspected war criminals, regardless of the nationality of the perpetrator and the place of a crime, to pave the way for prosecuting suspected Israeli war criminals and end the longstanding impunity they have enjoyed;
6. PCHR calls on States that apply the principle of universal jurisdiction not to surrender to Israeli pressure to limit universal jurisdiction to perpetuate the impunity enjoyed by suspected Israeli war criminals;
7. PCHR calls upon the international community to act in order to stop all Israeli settlement expansion activities in the oPt through imposing sanctions on Israeli settlements and criminalizing trading with them;
8. PCHR calls upon the UN General Assembly to transfer the Goldstone Report to the UN Security Council in order to refer it to the International Criminal Court in accordance with Article 13(b) of the Rome Statute;
9. PCHR calls upon the United Nations to confirm that holding war criminals in the Palestinian-Israeli conflict is a precondition to achieve stability and peace in the regions, and that peace cannot be built on the expense of human rights;
10. PCHR calls upon the UN General Assembly and Human Rights Council to explicitly declare that the Israeli closure policy in Gaza and the annexation wall in the West Bank are illegal, and accordingly refer the two issues to the UN Security Council to impose sanctions on Israel to compel it to remove them;
11. PCHR calls upon the international community, in light of its failure to the stop the aggression on the Palestinian people, to at least fulfil its obligation to reconstruct the Gaza Strip after the series of hostilities launched by Israel which directly targeted the civilian infrastructure;
12. PCHR calls upon the United Nations and the European Union to express a clear position towards the annexation wall following the international recognition of the State of Palestine on the 1967 borders, as the annexation wall seizes large parts of the State of Palestine;
13. PCHR calls upon the European Union to activate Article 2 of the EU-Israel Association Agreement, which provides that both sides must respect human rights as a precondition for economic cooperation between the EU states and Israel, and the EU must not ignore Israeli violations and crimes against Palestinian civilians;

 

 

 

 

 

…………………………………………………………

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.