31 jan 2014
Israeli forces detained seven Palestinian teenagers on Friday afternoon during clashes near the northern entrance of Bethlehem.
Witness Bilal al-Kurd said an undercover Israeli unit detained the youths during clashes in the area, and that the youths were taken to the 300 checkpoint just north of the city.
He added that Israeli soldiers also raided the area around a nearby cemetery and fired rubber-coated steel bullets and tear gas at Palestinians.
An Israeli army spokeswoman did not immediately return calls seeking comment.
The clashes occurred near Rachel's Tomb, which has been the site of near daily clashes in recent weeks.
The areas around the holy site are a frequent site of clashes because it is surrounded on three sides by the Israeli separation wall despite being in the middle of the Palestinian city of Bethlehem.
Israeli forces have opened fire on local youths during these demonstrations, injuring dozens with live bullets and rubber-coated steel bullets over the last two months.
Witness Bilal al-Kurd said an undercover Israeli unit detained the youths during clashes in the area, and that the youths were taken to the 300 checkpoint just north of the city.
He added that Israeli soldiers also raided the area around a nearby cemetery and fired rubber-coated steel bullets and tear gas at Palestinians.
An Israeli army spokeswoman did not immediately return calls seeking comment.
The clashes occurred near Rachel's Tomb, which has been the site of near daily clashes in recent weeks.
The areas around the holy site are a frequent site of clashes because it is surrounded on three sides by the Israeli separation wall despite being in the middle of the Palestinian city of Bethlehem.
Israeli forces have opened fire on local youths during these demonstrations, injuring dozens with live bullets and rubber-coated steel bullets over the last two months.
Sixteen Palestinian youths were injured on Friday after Israeli forces opened fire on protesters during clashes near al-Jalazun refugee camp north of Ramallah.
Israeli forces fired live bullets and rubber-coated steel bullets at demonstrators on the main road near the central West Bank refugee camp, as protesters marked two days since a youth from the camp named Muhammad Mubarak was shot dead by Israeli forces.
Medical sources told Ma'an that one of the injured, Mohammad Husam Safi, was shot with a live bullet in the neck and is currently in critical condition.
Among those injured were 13 victims who were identified by name as Qahir Majed Farraj, Majed Obada, Nour Khairi, Jaber Sharaka, Mohammad Hisham Ulayyan, Mahdi Abu Shareefa, Mohammad Ulayyan, Mohammad Hassouneh, Ibrahim Safi, who were injured by metal bullets and Ihab Saifi, Mohammad Abu Sbeih, Mohammad Nakhla and Jamal Nakhla who were injured by rubber coated steel bullets.
Israeli forces fired tear gas, stun grenades, live ammunition and rubber-coated steel bullets at protesters who responded with throwing empty bottles, firebombs, and stones.
An Israeli army spokeswoman said that approximately 200 Palestinians "hurled rocks and Molotov cocktails" at Israeli soldiers, who fired at protesters in response.
She added that one hit was confirmed during the "violent and illegal riot."
Muhammad Mubarak was killed by Israeli forces while he was working on a USAID funded project on a main road on Wednesday.
Eyewitnesses said that Mubarak was shot dead after Israeli forces harassed him and forced him to take his clothes off while he was "carrying a sign to direct the traffic."
Israel's army said Mubarak opened fire at Israeli forces in the area.
Israeli forces fired live bullets and rubber-coated steel bullets at demonstrators on the main road near the central West Bank refugee camp, as protesters marked two days since a youth from the camp named Muhammad Mubarak was shot dead by Israeli forces.
Medical sources told Ma'an that one of the injured, Mohammad Husam Safi, was shot with a live bullet in the neck and is currently in critical condition.
Among those injured were 13 victims who were identified by name as Qahir Majed Farraj, Majed Obada, Nour Khairi, Jaber Sharaka, Mohammad Hisham Ulayyan, Mahdi Abu Shareefa, Mohammad Ulayyan, Mohammad Hassouneh, Ibrahim Safi, who were injured by metal bullets and Ihab Saifi, Mohammad Abu Sbeih, Mohammad Nakhla and Jamal Nakhla who were injured by rubber coated steel bullets.
Israeli forces fired tear gas, stun grenades, live ammunition and rubber-coated steel bullets at protesters who responded with throwing empty bottles, firebombs, and stones.
An Israeli army spokeswoman said that approximately 200 Palestinians "hurled rocks and Molotov cocktails" at Israeli soldiers, who fired at protesters in response.
She added that one hit was confirmed during the "violent and illegal riot."
Muhammad Mubarak was killed by Israeli forces while he was working on a USAID funded project on a main road on Wednesday.
Eyewitnesses said that Mubarak was shot dead after Israeli forces harassed him and forced him to take his clothes off while he was "carrying a sign to direct the traffic."
Israel's army said Mubarak opened fire at Israeli forces in the area.
Five Palestinian citizens suffered bullet injuries on Friday afternoon when the Israeli occupation forces (IOF) behind the security fence in the north of the Gaza Strip opened fire at them with no reason. Ashraf Qudra, a spokesman for the health ministry in Gaza, said that four Palestinian civilians suffered different bullet injuries in an Israeli gunfire incident in the east of Beit Jabaliya and were rushed to hospital for medical treatment.
Local sources also reported that Israeli soldiers suddenly and randomly opened fire at Palestinian homes in Beit Jabaliya, which led to the injury of the four civilians.
In a similar incident, a young farmer suffered a moderate bullet injury in one of his feet after his exposure to Israeli gunfire during his presence in his land to the east of Beit Lahiya.
The IOF have escalated its aggression against the Gaza population since the start of the current year, killing six Palestinians and wounding 34 others.
Local sources also reported that Israeli soldiers suddenly and randomly opened fire at Palestinian homes in Beit Jabaliya, which led to the injury of the four civilians.
In a similar incident, a young farmer suffered a moderate bullet injury in one of his feet after his exposure to Israeli gunfire during his presence in his land to the east of Beit Lahiya.
The IOF have escalated its aggression against the Gaza population since the start of the current year, killing six Palestinians and wounding 34 others.
Israeli forces shot and injured a farmer on Friday in the northern Gaza Strip, a medical official said.
Ashraf al-Qidra, spokesperson for Gaza's Ministry of Health, told Ma'an that a 27-year-old man was shot in the foot by Israeli soldiers in Beit Lahiya.
The man, who was not identified, was taken to Kamal Adwan hospital and is in a moderate condition.
An Israeli army spokeswoman said "two riots erupted near the security fence in northern Gaza. In one riot, 50 Palestinians crowded in a prohibited area and hurled rocks at IDF soldiers at the scene."
Israeli soldiers fired warning shots in the air before resorting to opening fire towards a main instigator, she said, adding that a direct hit was identified.
Earlier, seven Palestinians were injured when Israeli warplanes launched a series of airstrikes on the Gaza Strip.
The injured were taken to hospitals, where medics described their wounds as light to moderate.
Last week, Israeli forces shot dead one Palestinian and injured another during a protest east of Jabaliya in the northern Gaza Strip.
Israeli forces frequently shoot at farmers and other civilians inside the Gaza Strip if they approach large swathes of land near the border that the Israeli military has deemed off-limits to Palestinians.
Ashraf al-Qidra, spokesperson for Gaza's Ministry of Health, told Ma'an that a 27-year-old man was shot in the foot by Israeli soldiers in Beit Lahiya.
The man, who was not identified, was taken to Kamal Adwan hospital and is in a moderate condition.
An Israeli army spokeswoman said "two riots erupted near the security fence in northern Gaza. In one riot, 50 Palestinians crowded in a prohibited area and hurled rocks at IDF soldiers at the scene."
Israeli soldiers fired warning shots in the air before resorting to opening fire towards a main instigator, she said, adding that a direct hit was identified.
Earlier, seven Palestinians were injured when Israeli warplanes launched a series of airstrikes on the Gaza Strip.
The injured were taken to hospitals, where medics described their wounds as light to moderate.
Last week, Israeli forces shot dead one Palestinian and injured another during a protest east of Jabaliya in the northern Gaza Strip.
Israeli forces frequently shoot at farmers and other civilians inside the Gaza Strip if they approach large swathes of land near the border that the Israeli military has deemed off-limits to Palestinians.
Two Palestinian youths were shot and injured by Israeli forces early Friday at a checkpoint east of Jerusalem in the West Bank, witnesses said.
Witnesses told Ma'an that 19-year-old Jawhar Nasser Jawhar was injured by Israeli fire at al-Zaayyem checkpoint near Abu Dis.
Jawhar remains in Israeli custody, and was not immediately given access to first aid, witnesses said.
Additionally, Adam Abd al-Raouf Halabiya, 17, was injured in the incident.
His mother Svetlana, a Ukrainian citizen, said that her son was admitted to an Israeli hospital.
She spoke to Ma'an via telephone from the hospital, where she said she was being prevented from seeing her son. She said Israeli soldiers instructed doctors not to answer her questions about his health.
Israeli forces also threatened to deport her to Ukraine, she said.
An Israeli Border Police spokesman was unable to be reached for comment.
Witnesses told Ma'an that 19-year-old Jawhar Nasser Jawhar was injured by Israeli fire at al-Zaayyem checkpoint near Abu Dis.
Jawhar remains in Israeli custody, and was not immediately given access to first aid, witnesses said.
Additionally, Adam Abd al-Raouf Halabiya, 17, was injured in the incident.
His mother Svetlana, a Ukrainian citizen, said that her son was admitted to an Israeli hospital.
She spoke to Ma'an via telephone from the hospital, where she said she was being prevented from seeing her son. She said Israeli soldiers instructed doctors not to answer her questions about his health.
Israeli forces also threatened to deport her to Ukraine, she said.
An Israeli Border Police spokesman was unable to be reached for comment.
Carnage: Palestinian firefighters try to extinguish a fire after an Israeli air strike on Gaza' Ministry of Interior in Gaza City
Abdulrahman Murad Gazans fear another Israeli military offensive is imminent, as Israel flexes its military muscle and Egypt joins the band, beating the drums of war.
A rush to exercise
In November 2013, the Israeli military for the first time ever hosted a multi-national military exercise; Greece, the US and Italy arrived to carry out the Blue Flag 2013 drill in the Negev simulating a ground incursion into Gaza. The move was described as the largest-ever aerial manoeuvre shared by international forces. A similar drill was also jointly organised by Israel and the US in July 2013.
Mounting threats
I have received two inquiries from oversees friends during the past few days regarding the high-pitch Israeli threats against Gaza, and Hamas in particular. The last one was asking for a confirmation of Israeli TV channels warning foreigners in Gaza to immediately leave, in anticipation for military action. The people here are accustomed to such intimidations; however, the explicit statements of Israeli officials, the latest of which is Netanyahu’s ‘to teach Hamas a lesson very soon’ threat, drew their attention to the prospect of a war targeting the unarmed, before proceeding to the armed citizens of Gaza.
Both Israel’s 2008-2009 and 2012 offensives were said to be aimed at removing the threat of the firing of crude rockets into Israeli territory. However, this goal was never achieved: on the contrary, the assaults only resulted in the majority of the casualties being civilians. Up to 82% of the 1,400 and 103 out of the 156 Palestinian deaths killed during Operation Cast Lead and Pillar of Defense respectively were civilians.
Drones
The low-flying Israeli drones are a permanent source of fear to the Gaza population. Israel, as it did in Operation Cast Lead one year ago with the extrajudicial targeting of Hamas’s armed wing leader Ahmed al-Jabari, may launch a new offensive with a drone-propelled attack. Many here consider that a drone locally known as ‘Zannana’ (which means the buzzing [plane]) is more than just a spying machine, but an everyday teaser and TV watching ‘spoiler’ as satellite TV signals are jammed. Nowadays, they are ‘buzzing’ in an increasingly abnormal fashion; reminders of previous Israeli wars, where drones relay the code sound over the smoky patches of the Gaza skies.
Iron Dome repositioning
Moreover, deploying the rocket-intercepting Iron Dome system brings the bunker mentality to mind, characterizing the state of Israel in any approach to aerial warfare. A month ago, Israel redeployed three missile batteries near the southern cities of Beersheba, Sderot and Ashdod, part of the military’s "preparation for a possible escalation,” according to the Israeli defense minister. However Hamas, who govern the Gaza Strip, has recently asked Palestinian factions to maintain the Egypt brokered cease-fire agreement secured in November 2012 after Israel’s eight-day offensive.
War campaign
Effectively, internationally campaigning for an upcoming war against the blockaded Gaza Strip, Israel is attempting to humiliate Hamas, by blaming certain Gaza factions for the escalating wave of violence. This is notwithstanding its condoning of the killing of six Palestinians from Gaza since December 20 - when Israeli troops shot a Palestinian who was near the northern Gaza border dead, allegedly in retaliation to Palestinians’ launching of a mortar round that hit southern Israel - which marked the start of the current unrest.
As usual in the meantime, Gaza’s militancy is being inflated as being on a par with Israel’s. The Israeli ambassador to the United Nations, Ron Prosor, recently complained to the Security Council and to UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon over two Gaza rockets that haphazardly hit the Negev causing no physical injuries or damage.
The people of Gaza - isolated
To Gazans, the year-long rule of Egypt’s deposed President Mohamed Morsi, constituted a kind-of breather in the midst of a suffocating seven-year-long blockade.
Restrictions were eased on the Rafah crossing, an undreamt-of move that Gazans enjoyed, albeit temporarily and not fully. I myself enjoyed travelling outside Gaza just 30 days before Morsi’s ouster. I was a member of a delegation of three professors and some 30 youths who were selected for a training course in teaching Arabic for non-Arabic speakers, part of the Islamic University of Gaza (IUG) programme in Al-Arish city in northern Sinai.
Before we headed to Egypt, the coordinator of the course told us that as a Gaza delegation - it was a miracle to get the approval to enter into and stay in Egypt for a week. However, on the day of our departure, we had to wait five hours at the Egyptian passport administration for our passports to get stamped. We were eventually permitted to pass, but an IUG professor was turned away; ostensibly for security reasons.
Under Morsi’s rule, some 50,000 Palestinians born to Egyptian mothers, mostly from the Gaza Strip, enjoyed being granted Egyptian citizenship, while 3500 others were on the list. Those who did acquire such nationality were exceptionally ecstatic, after having felt underprivileged with the Palestinian passport, not a treasure to be in possession of, especially when it comes to travelling to Arab countries. However, the joy was short-lived; with the rise of a new authority in Egypt, they were stripped of their Egyptian citizenship, and the feeling of rejection was redoubled.
Stricken economy
After the ousting of Mubarak, the uninterrupted flow of smuggled goods and basic materials like fuels and building materials, allowed for a relative uptick in the economy and a sense of normalcy in the lives of the Gazans. When the military seized the reins in July 2013, the tables turned again. Seven months have passed now, many jobs have been lost and the unemployment rate is expected to rise further.
Gazans trapped in politics
Above all, the once cordial Hamas-Morsi relations didn’t benefit the status quo in Gaza. Aside from Hamas’ outspoken statements denying interference in Egypt’s affairs and the unrest in the Sinai Peninsula, Egypt cannot help but point fingers at Hamas, only adding to the woes of the non-partisan people of the beleaguered enclave.
The Arab people’s focus on their own political upheavals has added to the Gazans’ fear of being trapped in a new Israeli military escalation.
This article is originally published on OpenDemocracy
Abdulrahman Murad Gazans fear another Israeli military offensive is imminent, as Israel flexes its military muscle and Egypt joins the band, beating the drums of war.
A rush to exercise
In November 2013, the Israeli military for the first time ever hosted a multi-national military exercise; Greece, the US and Italy arrived to carry out the Blue Flag 2013 drill in the Negev simulating a ground incursion into Gaza. The move was described as the largest-ever aerial manoeuvre shared by international forces. A similar drill was also jointly organised by Israel and the US in July 2013.
Mounting threats
I have received two inquiries from oversees friends during the past few days regarding the high-pitch Israeli threats against Gaza, and Hamas in particular. The last one was asking for a confirmation of Israeli TV channels warning foreigners in Gaza to immediately leave, in anticipation for military action. The people here are accustomed to such intimidations; however, the explicit statements of Israeli officials, the latest of which is Netanyahu’s ‘to teach Hamas a lesson very soon’ threat, drew their attention to the prospect of a war targeting the unarmed, before proceeding to the armed citizens of Gaza.
Both Israel’s 2008-2009 and 2012 offensives were said to be aimed at removing the threat of the firing of crude rockets into Israeli territory. However, this goal was never achieved: on the contrary, the assaults only resulted in the majority of the casualties being civilians. Up to 82% of the 1,400 and 103 out of the 156 Palestinian deaths killed during Operation Cast Lead and Pillar of Defense respectively were civilians.
Drones
The low-flying Israeli drones are a permanent source of fear to the Gaza population. Israel, as it did in Operation Cast Lead one year ago with the extrajudicial targeting of Hamas’s armed wing leader Ahmed al-Jabari, may launch a new offensive with a drone-propelled attack. Many here consider that a drone locally known as ‘Zannana’ (which means the buzzing [plane]) is more than just a spying machine, but an everyday teaser and TV watching ‘spoiler’ as satellite TV signals are jammed. Nowadays, they are ‘buzzing’ in an increasingly abnormal fashion; reminders of previous Israeli wars, where drones relay the code sound over the smoky patches of the Gaza skies.
Iron Dome repositioning
Moreover, deploying the rocket-intercepting Iron Dome system brings the bunker mentality to mind, characterizing the state of Israel in any approach to aerial warfare. A month ago, Israel redeployed three missile batteries near the southern cities of Beersheba, Sderot and Ashdod, part of the military’s "preparation for a possible escalation,” according to the Israeli defense minister. However Hamas, who govern the Gaza Strip, has recently asked Palestinian factions to maintain the Egypt brokered cease-fire agreement secured in November 2012 after Israel’s eight-day offensive.
War campaign
Effectively, internationally campaigning for an upcoming war against the blockaded Gaza Strip, Israel is attempting to humiliate Hamas, by blaming certain Gaza factions for the escalating wave of violence. This is notwithstanding its condoning of the killing of six Palestinians from Gaza since December 20 - when Israeli troops shot a Palestinian who was near the northern Gaza border dead, allegedly in retaliation to Palestinians’ launching of a mortar round that hit southern Israel - which marked the start of the current unrest.
As usual in the meantime, Gaza’s militancy is being inflated as being on a par with Israel’s. The Israeli ambassador to the United Nations, Ron Prosor, recently complained to the Security Council and to UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon over two Gaza rockets that haphazardly hit the Negev causing no physical injuries or damage.
The people of Gaza - isolated
To Gazans, the year-long rule of Egypt’s deposed President Mohamed Morsi, constituted a kind-of breather in the midst of a suffocating seven-year-long blockade.
Restrictions were eased on the Rafah crossing, an undreamt-of move that Gazans enjoyed, albeit temporarily and not fully. I myself enjoyed travelling outside Gaza just 30 days before Morsi’s ouster. I was a member of a delegation of three professors and some 30 youths who were selected for a training course in teaching Arabic for non-Arabic speakers, part of the Islamic University of Gaza (IUG) programme in Al-Arish city in northern Sinai.
Before we headed to Egypt, the coordinator of the course told us that as a Gaza delegation - it was a miracle to get the approval to enter into and stay in Egypt for a week. However, on the day of our departure, we had to wait five hours at the Egyptian passport administration for our passports to get stamped. We were eventually permitted to pass, but an IUG professor was turned away; ostensibly for security reasons.
Under Morsi’s rule, some 50,000 Palestinians born to Egyptian mothers, mostly from the Gaza Strip, enjoyed being granted Egyptian citizenship, while 3500 others were on the list. Those who did acquire such nationality were exceptionally ecstatic, after having felt underprivileged with the Palestinian passport, not a treasure to be in possession of, especially when it comes to travelling to Arab countries. However, the joy was short-lived; with the rise of a new authority in Egypt, they were stripped of their Egyptian citizenship, and the feeling of rejection was redoubled.
Stricken economy
After the ousting of Mubarak, the uninterrupted flow of smuggled goods and basic materials like fuels and building materials, allowed for a relative uptick in the economy and a sense of normalcy in the lives of the Gazans. When the military seized the reins in July 2013, the tables turned again. Seven months have passed now, many jobs have been lost and the unemployment rate is expected to rise further.
Gazans trapped in politics
Above all, the once cordial Hamas-Morsi relations didn’t benefit the status quo in Gaza. Aside from Hamas’ outspoken statements denying interference in Egypt’s affairs and the unrest in the Sinai Peninsula, Egypt cannot help but point fingers at Hamas, only adding to the woes of the non-partisan people of the beleaguered enclave.
The Arab people’s focus on their own political upheavals has added to the Gazans’ fear of being trapped in a new Israeli military escalation.
This article is originally published on OpenDemocracy
Several Palestinians suffered the effects of teargas inhalation in Methaloon village, south of the northern West Bank city of Jenin, after dozens of soldiers invaded it, and clashed with local youths.
Local sources said local youths threw stones and empty bottles at the invading soldiers, and that the army fired concussion grenades, and gas bombs, causing several residents to suffer the effects of tear gas inhalation.
The sources added that the soldiers broke into several homes in the town, and ransacked them before interrogating the families.
Furthermore, the soldiers handed resident Tawfiq Rabay’a, 27, a military warrant ordering him to head to a nearby military base for interrogation.
On Friday evening, soldiers kidnapped Khaled Ahmad Rajoub, 41, from Doura town near Hebron, as he was in Al-Harayeq area, south of Hebron city, in the southern part of the West Bank.
The soldiers also invaded Beit Ummar nearby town, broke into several homes, and used several rooftops as military towers.
Army also invaded various communities in the Hebron district, interrogated dozens of Palestinian, and searched cars and homes. Soldiers kidnapped one Palestinian in Hebron, and five others in Jenin.
Local sources said local youths threw stones and empty bottles at the invading soldiers, and that the army fired concussion grenades, and gas bombs, causing several residents to suffer the effects of tear gas inhalation.
The sources added that the soldiers broke into several homes in the town, and ransacked them before interrogating the families.
Furthermore, the soldiers handed resident Tawfiq Rabay’a, 27, a military warrant ordering him to head to a nearby military base for interrogation.
On Friday evening, soldiers kidnapped Khaled Ahmad Rajoub, 41, from Doura town near Hebron, as he was in Al-Harayeq area, south of Hebron city, in the southern part of the West Bank.
The soldiers also invaded Beit Ummar nearby town, broke into several homes, and used several rooftops as military towers.
Army also invaded various communities in the Hebron district, interrogated dozens of Palestinian, and searched cars and homes. Soldiers kidnapped one Palestinian in Hebron, and five others in Jenin.
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Seven Palestinians were injured early Friday when Israeli warplanes launched a series of airstrikes on the Gaza Strip, a Ma'an reporter said.
Israeli aircraft attacked a site in northwest Gaza, lightly wounding a child and damaging a number of houses. Additionally, two missiles targeted an abandoned building near Beisan park in Beit Lahia in the northern Gaza Strip, injuring civilians. Israeli missiles also struck near a mosque north of Rafah in the southern Gaza strip, injuring four people. |
Also in Rafah, Israeli aircraft targeted a military site of al-Qassam Brigades, Hamas' armed wing, without causing injuries.
The injured were taken to hospitals, where medics described their wounds as light to moderate.
Israel's army said in a statement that in response to rockets fired from Gaza into Israel, "aircrafts targeted overnight a terror activity site and a weapon manufacturing facility in the northern Gaza strip and a weapon storage facility in the southern Gaza Strip."
"Direct hits were confirmed," the statement said.
"Israelis cannot be held at the mercy of these hideous terrorists operating from Hamas Gaza Strip," Lieutenant Colonel Peter Lerner said in the statement.
"The bases of Gaza terrorism and its industry of death will not be immune while our citizens are being attacked."
Late Thursday, a rocket from the Gaza Strip landed in an open area in southern Israel, causing no damage or injuries.
Over the past month, tensions have risen in and around Gaza after more than a year of relative calm following Israel's war on the coastal territory in November 2012 which killed over 170 people, mainly civilians, and injured thousands.
Since Dec. 20, four Palestinians and an Israeli have been killed in violence in and around Gaza.
Israeli army figures show nine rockets have struck Israeli territory since Jan. 1, and another five were intercepted by the Iron Dome anti-missile system.
None of the rockets caused injuries.
Israeli airstrikes this year on targets in Gaza have injured dozens of people, mainly civilians.
Israel Strikes Targets in Gaza
The Israeli Air Force (IAF) hit at dawn on Friday several targets in the Gaza Strip, injuring a number of Palestinians.
Israeli Army spokesperson said IAF aircrafts targeted a weapon manufacturing facility in the northern Gaza Strip and a weapon storage facility in the southern Gaza Strip.
The spokesperson claimed that the missiles were launched in response to the rocket fire that was fired at Israel, adding that direct hits were confirmed.
Palestinian sources said that seven Palestinians were injured, including three children.
The injured were taken to hospitals, where medics described their wounds as light to moderate.
Israel's army said in a statement that in response to rockets fired from Gaza into Israel, "aircrafts targeted overnight a terror activity site and a weapon manufacturing facility in the northern Gaza strip and a weapon storage facility in the southern Gaza Strip."
"Direct hits were confirmed," the statement said.
"Israelis cannot be held at the mercy of these hideous terrorists operating from Hamas Gaza Strip," Lieutenant Colonel Peter Lerner said in the statement.
"The bases of Gaza terrorism and its industry of death will not be immune while our citizens are being attacked."
Late Thursday, a rocket from the Gaza Strip landed in an open area in southern Israel, causing no damage or injuries.
Over the past month, tensions have risen in and around Gaza after more than a year of relative calm following Israel's war on the coastal territory in November 2012 which killed over 170 people, mainly civilians, and injured thousands.
Since Dec. 20, four Palestinians and an Israeli have been killed in violence in and around Gaza.
Israeli army figures show nine rockets have struck Israeli territory since Jan. 1, and another five were intercepted by the Iron Dome anti-missile system.
None of the rockets caused injuries.
Israeli airstrikes this year on targets in Gaza have injured dozens of people, mainly civilians.
Israel Strikes Targets in Gaza
The Israeli Air Force (IAF) hit at dawn on Friday several targets in the Gaza Strip, injuring a number of Palestinians.
Israeli Army spokesperson said IAF aircrafts targeted a weapon manufacturing facility in the northern Gaza Strip and a weapon storage facility in the southern Gaza Strip.
The spokesperson claimed that the missiles were launched in response to the rocket fire that was fired at Israel, adding that direct hits were confirmed.
Palestinian sources said that seven Palestinians were injured, including three children.
30 jan 2014
Israeli Occupation Forces (IOF) have brutally attacked a group of Palestinian women in Silwad town east of Ramallah while trying to prevent Palestinian youth's arrest during clashes that erupted in the town. Violent clashes erupted on Wednesday evening at the town's entrance between Palestinian youths protesting the killing of the 20-year-old Mohammed Mobarak and Israeli soldiers stationed at military checkpoint, eyewitnesses told the PIC reporter.
During the clashes, IOF soldiers broke into a house and tried to arrest a Palestinian youth; however, a group of women intervened and prevented his arrest. The women were severely beaten in a vicious attack by the soldiers.
The soldiers then closed the town's entrance and prevented Palestinian vehicles and residents from entering or leaving the town.
The sources added that the soldiers used tear gas bombs against the civilians, which led to breathing difficulties among dozens of families living in the area.
Meanwhile, IOF soldiers stormed at late hours Wednesday Ein Shibli area in Nablus. They raided and searched several houses.
Local sources said that Israeli military forces conducted combing operation and population census and forced the residents out of their homes despite the freezing cold.
The sources confirmed that the Israeli occupation forces had stormed the town three times in a month and conducted population census without known reasons.
Ein Shibli is a Palestinian village located on Jordan Valley edge, known by its irrigated agricultural land.
On the other hand, IOF soldiers raided Wednesday Islamic Relief Center headquarters in Ramallah, where they confiscated many of its belongings, including computers and cameras.
Local sources confirmed that the soldiers violently broke into the Islamic Relief Center headquarters after destroying its gates and damaged its furniture and other possessions.
For his part, Head of the Center Abdel-Rahim El-Assaad strongly condemned the Israeli assault on the center, pointing out that the center's activities are mainly related to education, health and humanitarian issues.
During the clashes, IOF soldiers broke into a house and tried to arrest a Palestinian youth; however, a group of women intervened and prevented his arrest. The women were severely beaten in a vicious attack by the soldiers.
The soldiers then closed the town's entrance and prevented Palestinian vehicles and residents from entering or leaving the town.
The sources added that the soldiers used tear gas bombs against the civilians, which led to breathing difficulties among dozens of families living in the area.
Meanwhile, IOF soldiers stormed at late hours Wednesday Ein Shibli area in Nablus. They raided and searched several houses.
Local sources said that Israeli military forces conducted combing operation and population census and forced the residents out of their homes despite the freezing cold.
The sources confirmed that the Israeli occupation forces had stormed the town three times in a month and conducted population census without known reasons.
Ein Shibli is a Palestinian village located on Jordan Valley edge, known by its irrigated agricultural land.
On the other hand, IOF soldiers raided Wednesday Islamic Relief Center headquarters in Ramallah, where they confiscated many of its belongings, including computers and cameras.
Local sources confirmed that the soldiers violently broke into the Islamic Relief Center headquarters after destroying its gates and damaged its furniture and other possessions.
For his part, Head of the Center Abdel-Rahim El-Assaad strongly condemned the Israeli assault on the center, pointing out that the center's activities are mainly related to education, health and humanitarian issues.
The Israeli occupation forces (IOF) at dawn Thursday stormed Al-Jalazoun refugee camp, north of Ramallah city, and raided the house of the 20-year-old young man Mohamed Mubarak who was murdered by Israeli soldiers yesterday. Local sources reported that the IOF ransacked the house of Mubarak's parents and confiscated personal computers and phone sim cards belonging to him and his family.
They added that the IOF also raided the mourning hall where his family receive condolences from visitors and tore off pictures of Mubarak before withdrawing from the camp.
They added that the IOF also raided the mourning hall where his family receive condolences from visitors and tore off pictures of Mubarak before withdrawing from the camp.
Israeli soldiers opened fire at a man who tried to infiltrate the Iron Dome compound in Eilat on Thursday, Israel's army said.
"There was a suspect that attempted to infiltrate the Iron Dome compound in Eilat. The soldiers reported that they called on the suspect to stop and fired warning shots in the air," an Israeli army spokeswoman told Ma'an.
The man, who is an Israeli citizen, was transferred to hospital to receive medical treatment. Israel's army is still reviewing the cause of the injury, the spokeswoman added.
Israeli news site Ynet reported that the suspect was "Arab," without providing further details.
IOA claims Palestinian was injured while trying to attack base
The Israeli occupation authorities claimed that a Palestinian young man was wounded when he tried to attack a military base near Eilat on Thursday and was shot by guarding soldiers. The Israeli army command claimed that the youth was heading to the base while chanting Allahu Akbar, which prompted the soldiers to fire at him.
Hebrew press sources said that the 23-year-old youth was injured in his torso and was taken to hospital.
"There was a suspect that attempted to infiltrate the Iron Dome compound in Eilat. The soldiers reported that they called on the suspect to stop and fired warning shots in the air," an Israeli army spokeswoman told Ma'an.
The man, who is an Israeli citizen, was transferred to hospital to receive medical treatment. Israel's army is still reviewing the cause of the injury, the spokeswoman added.
Israeli news site Ynet reported that the suspect was "Arab," without providing further details.
IOA claims Palestinian was injured while trying to attack base
The Israeli occupation authorities claimed that a Palestinian young man was wounded when he tried to attack a military base near Eilat on Thursday and was shot by guarding soldiers. The Israeli army command claimed that the youth was heading to the base while chanting Allahu Akbar, which prompted the soldiers to fire at him.
Hebrew press sources said that the 23-year-old youth was injured in his torso and was taken to hospital.
Violent clashes erupted on Thursday morning between civilian Palestinian youths and occupation forces accompanied by hundreds of settlers who broke into Joseph Tomb east of Nablus city, northern the occupied West Bank. “More than nine hundred extremist settlers accompanied by occupation military patrols broke into Joseph Tomb in northern Nablus and performed their Zionist Talmudic prayers ” Witnesses reported.
The occupation forces intensified its presence around the tomb and erected military checkpoints to protect the aggressive Zionist settlers during the clashes between the civilian youths and the aggressors where the Israeli soldiers fired stun grenades and gas bombs towards the civilians and the nearby homes.
The extremist settlers break into Joseph Tomb on a weekly basis as they claim it belongs to prophet Joseph (PBUH), at the same time authentic historians confirm that the tomb belongs to a righteous man called Yousef (Joseph) Dwekat from Balata town near Nablus.
The occupation forces intensified its presence around the tomb and erected military checkpoints to protect the aggressive Zionist settlers during the clashes between the civilian youths and the aggressors where the Israeli soldiers fired stun grenades and gas bombs towards the civilians and the nearby homes.
The extremist settlers break into Joseph Tomb on a weekly basis as they claim it belongs to prophet Joseph (PBUH), at the same time authentic historians confirm that the tomb belongs to a righteous man called Yousef (Joseph) Dwekat from Balata town near Nablus.
The number of anti-Palestinians attacks by right-wing activists in Israel rose from 18 in 2012 to 25 attacks in 2013, according to the annual Shin Bet security agency report released this week. The report revealed that four people had been injured in 2013 in right-wing attacks, as compared to six such injuries in 2012. No deaths were recorded.
In 2013, 70 Jewish Israelis were indicted for harming Arab residents, whereas only 46 such indictments were recorded in 2012. Last year, 13 administrative restraining orders were also issued to restrict entry to the West Bank.
Shin Bet excluded the " price-tag" offensives from the report , classifying them as incidents rather than attacks.
Amir Peretz , Minister of Environmental Protection called on the Israeli occupation government to counter the offensives of "price tag" groups against Palestinians in the West Bank.
Arab Organisation for Human Rights in UK warned of the rise in Israeli attacks against Palestinians in the west Bank.
It has documented 30 attacks against Palestinians since the beginning of this year , it listed in its report the Israeli attacks against Palestinians' properties in the villages near Israeli illegal settlements , painting – printed racists slogans against Palestinians, and other attacks against Palestinians farmers and lands.
In 2013, 70 Jewish Israelis were indicted for harming Arab residents, whereas only 46 such indictments were recorded in 2012. Last year, 13 administrative restraining orders were also issued to restrict entry to the West Bank.
Shin Bet excluded the " price-tag" offensives from the report , classifying them as incidents rather than attacks.
Amir Peretz , Minister of Environmental Protection called on the Israeli occupation government to counter the offensives of "price tag" groups against Palestinians in the West Bank.
Arab Organisation for Human Rights in UK warned of the rise in Israeli attacks against Palestinians in the west Bank.
It has documented 30 attacks against Palestinians since the beginning of this year , it listed in its report the Israeli attacks against Palestinians' properties in the villages near Israeli illegal settlements , painting – printed racists slogans against Palestinians, and other attacks against Palestinians farmers and lands.
Israeli occupation forces (IOF) raided several homes on Thursday early morning in Ein Shably village in the central area of the Jordan valley, east of Nablus city, northern the occupied West Bank. Activist Osama abu-Hatab from Ein Shably village, said that the occupation troops suddenly broke into the Palestinians homes and messed them up and interrogated their inhabitants after inspecting their ID cards and taking photos in a statistical-like step for the village’s inhabitants.
Abu Hatab added that the occupation forces insisted to enter the homes after continuous heavy knocks on the doors that caused severe horror and fear among children and woman in bitter cold weather during the early morning hours.
Abu Hatab pointed that the occupation soldiers carried out the military exercises with scary black masks and heavy military equipment.
It is worthy to mention that, the occupation forces carried out three similar military exercises in Ein Shably, Annasariah and al-Aqrabaniah villages during January using helicopters, heavy military machinery and dozens of soldiers.
Soldiers Invade Homes, Conduct Training, In West Bank Village
Dozens of Israeli soldiers invaded Ein Shibli village, in the West Bank’s Central Plains, east of the northern West Bank city of Nablus, broke into several homes, and conducted military drills. Families displaced in the Northern Plains.
Resident Osama Abu Hatab said the soldiers violently searched several local families, and interrogated the residents before taking pictures of their ID cards.
Abu Hatab added that the soldiers violently banged on the doors, threatening to detonate them should the Palestinians refuse to open them, causing anxiety attacks among the children.
The families were then forced out in the cold for more than two hours while the soldiers conducted training between the homes, wearing military combat gear.
In December of last year, the soldiers conducted three similar attacks and drills in Ein Shibli, An-Nassariyya, and Al-‘Aqrabaniyya villages, using military gear, army helicopters and various armored vehicles.
In related news, dozens of soldiers invaded Khirbet Um Al-Jamal village, in the Northern Plains of the occupied West Bank, and demolished tents and residencies that belong to 13 families.
Local sources said that army bulldozers demolished the sheds and structures, displacing the families, and also demolished barns.
‘Aref Daraghma, head of the Wady Al-Maleh local council, said the soldiers demolished more than 50 structures, including sheds, barns, wood fired ovens, and tents.
Daraghma stated that the latest attack is part of numerous similar violations against the residents in the area, and that the army demolished dozens of structures over the last few months in the northern plains of the occupied West Bank.
“These violations are a continuation of war crimes carried out by the occupation”, he said, “The Palestinians are facing ongoing displacement, harassment, and are exposed to serious danger due to ongoing military trainings in the area”.
Abu Hatab added that the occupation forces insisted to enter the homes after continuous heavy knocks on the doors that caused severe horror and fear among children and woman in bitter cold weather during the early morning hours.
Abu Hatab pointed that the occupation soldiers carried out the military exercises with scary black masks and heavy military equipment.
It is worthy to mention that, the occupation forces carried out three similar military exercises in Ein Shably, Annasariah and al-Aqrabaniah villages during January using helicopters, heavy military machinery and dozens of soldiers.
Soldiers Invade Homes, Conduct Training, In West Bank Village
Dozens of Israeli soldiers invaded Ein Shibli village, in the West Bank’s Central Plains, east of the northern West Bank city of Nablus, broke into several homes, and conducted military drills. Families displaced in the Northern Plains.
Resident Osama Abu Hatab said the soldiers violently searched several local families, and interrogated the residents before taking pictures of their ID cards.
Abu Hatab added that the soldiers violently banged on the doors, threatening to detonate them should the Palestinians refuse to open them, causing anxiety attacks among the children.
The families were then forced out in the cold for more than two hours while the soldiers conducted training between the homes, wearing military combat gear.
In December of last year, the soldiers conducted three similar attacks and drills in Ein Shibli, An-Nassariyya, and Al-‘Aqrabaniyya villages, using military gear, army helicopters and various armored vehicles.
In related news, dozens of soldiers invaded Khirbet Um Al-Jamal village, in the Northern Plains of the occupied West Bank, and demolished tents and residencies that belong to 13 families.
Local sources said that army bulldozers demolished the sheds and structures, displacing the families, and also demolished barns.
‘Aref Daraghma, head of the Wady Al-Maleh local council, said the soldiers demolished more than 50 structures, including sheds, barns, wood fired ovens, and tents.
Daraghma stated that the latest attack is part of numerous similar violations against the residents in the area, and that the army demolished dozens of structures over the last few months in the northern plains of the occupied West Bank.
“These violations are a continuation of war crimes carried out by the occupation”, he said, “The Palestinians are facing ongoing displacement, harassment, and are exposed to serious danger due to ongoing military trainings in the area”.
Clashes, injuries have been reported in Nablus; woman and a child, injured
Israeli soldiers invaded several Palestinian communities in different parts of the occupied West Bank, searched them, and kidnapped five Palestinians near the northern West Bank city of Jenin, and one near Hebron, in southern West Bank.
Dozens of soldiers invaded the Jaba’ town, south of Jenin, ransacked several homes after breaking into them, and kidnapped five Palestinians.
The five kidnapped Palestinians have been identified as Mahran Rami Fashafsha, 20, Kamal Nasser Alawna, 21, Rami Fadel Alawna, 27, Tareq Mahmoud Alawna, 23, and Waheeb Nasser Mohammad Alawna, 24.
Eyewitnesses said the soldiers caused excessive damage to several homes after violently searching them, and forcing the Palestinians out.
In related news, dozens of soldiers invaded the Halhoul town, north of Hebron, and kidnapped one Palestinian near the Ibrahimi Mosque, in Hebron city.
Local sources said the soldiers took resident Samer Mahmoud Za’amra, 23, from Halhoul nearby town, to an unknown destination.
Furthermore, dozens of soldiers were extensively deployed in Doura and Thaheriyya towns, near Hebron, stopped and searched several Palestinians, and interrogated them.
Soldiers also installed roadblocks on different roads, especially around towns and villages south of the Hebron district, and roads leading to the heart of the city.
In related news, dozens of Israeli soldiers and settlers invaded the northern West bank city of Nablus, and headed towards the Joseph Tomb area, east of the Balata refugee camp, the WAFA News Agency has reported.
WAFA said more than nine Israeli buses, and several military jeeps, advanced into the area, while the Israelis went to pray at the tomb site. Several extremists and soldiers harassed Palestinians in the area, leading to clashes, WAFA added.
Local youths hurled stones and empty bottles at the army, while the soldiers fire rounds of live ammunition, gas bombs, concussion grenades, and flares.
Medical sources said that Zainab Ali Al-Moghraby, 65, and Adnan Khaldoun Al-‘Omary, 13, were attacked and wounded by army fire during clashes between the soldiers and local youths.
Israeli soldiers invaded several Palestinian communities in different parts of the occupied West Bank, searched them, and kidnapped five Palestinians near the northern West Bank city of Jenin, and one near Hebron, in southern West Bank.
Dozens of soldiers invaded the Jaba’ town, south of Jenin, ransacked several homes after breaking into them, and kidnapped five Palestinians.
The five kidnapped Palestinians have been identified as Mahran Rami Fashafsha, 20, Kamal Nasser Alawna, 21, Rami Fadel Alawna, 27, Tareq Mahmoud Alawna, 23, and Waheeb Nasser Mohammad Alawna, 24.
Eyewitnesses said the soldiers caused excessive damage to several homes after violently searching them, and forcing the Palestinians out.
In related news, dozens of soldiers invaded the Halhoul town, north of Hebron, and kidnapped one Palestinian near the Ibrahimi Mosque, in Hebron city.
Local sources said the soldiers took resident Samer Mahmoud Za’amra, 23, from Halhoul nearby town, to an unknown destination.
Furthermore, dozens of soldiers were extensively deployed in Doura and Thaheriyya towns, near Hebron, stopped and searched several Palestinians, and interrogated them.
Soldiers also installed roadblocks on different roads, especially around towns and villages south of the Hebron district, and roads leading to the heart of the city.
In related news, dozens of Israeli soldiers and settlers invaded the northern West bank city of Nablus, and headed towards the Joseph Tomb area, east of the Balata refugee camp, the WAFA News Agency has reported.
WAFA said more than nine Israeli buses, and several military jeeps, advanced into the area, while the Israelis went to pray at the tomb site. Several extremists and soldiers harassed Palestinians in the area, leading to clashes, WAFA added.
Local youths hurled stones and empty bottles at the army, while the soldiers fire rounds of live ammunition, gas bombs, concussion grenades, and flares.
Medical sources said that Zainab Ali Al-Moghraby, 65, and Adnan Khaldoun Al-‘Omary, 13, were attacked and wounded by army fire during clashes between the soldiers and local youths.
Eyewitnesses said that Israeli soldiers invaded the al-Eesawiyya town, in occupied East Jerusalem, and kidnapped seven Palestinians, including a young woman. Dozens of residents have been injured; soldiers also attacked a pregnant woman inflicting moderate injuries.
Eyewitnesses said that dozens of soldiers invaded the Abu al-Hummus neighborhood, in the town, broke into and searched several homes, attacking the residents. Soldiers also used pepper-spray against several women in the attacked homes.
They added that the soldiers violently searched the invaded homes, and kidnapped seven Palestinians, including a young woman.
Resident Ahmad Abu al-Hummus told the Palestinian News & Info Agency (WAFA) that several children and women, members of his family, were violently beaten by the soldiers, and that his pregnant sister-in-law was moved to a local hospital suffering moderate injuries, but which could terminate her pregnancy.
The soldiers invaded the neighborhood, searching for a young man, and started invading and violently searching local homes before assaulting the residents.
Some of the wounded required medical treatment, due to the effects of tear gas inhalation, and to being spared with pepper-spray by the invading soldiers.
The soldiers kidnapped four members of Abu al-Hummus family, including a young woman; the four have been identified as Mohammad Abdullah Abu al-Hummus, Mohammad Ahmad Abu al-Hummus, Abdul-Karim Abu al-Hummus, and Hanin Abu al-Hummus. Three more Palestinians were briefly detained.
Soldiers alleged that Hanin carried a knife when she was taken prisoner, while her family affirmed she was cooking in the kitchen when the attack took place. And, when she heard a loud noise, resulting from the Israeli invasion, she rushed outside to see what was going on, and was kidnapped by the soldiers.
The soldiers were kidnapping her brother when she stopped out, and jumped on her before arresting her as well.
Eyewitnesses said that dozens of soldiers invaded the Abu al-Hummus neighborhood, in the town, broke into and searched several homes, attacking the residents. Soldiers also used pepper-spray against several women in the attacked homes.
They added that the soldiers violently searched the invaded homes, and kidnapped seven Palestinians, including a young woman.
Resident Ahmad Abu al-Hummus told the Palestinian News & Info Agency (WAFA) that several children and women, members of his family, were violently beaten by the soldiers, and that his pregnant sister-in-law was moved to a local hospital suffering moderate injuries, but which could terminate her pregnancy.
The soldiers invaded the neighborhood, searching for a young man, and started invading and violently searching local homes before assaulting the residents.
Some of the wounded required medical treatment, due to the effects of tear gas inhalation, and to being spared with pepper-spray by the invading soldiers.
The soldiers kidnapped four members of Abu al-Hummus family, including a young woman; the four have been identified as Mohammad Abdullah Abu al-Hummus, Mohammad Ahmad Abu al-Hummus, Abdul-Karim Abu al-Hummus, and Hanin Abu al-Hummus. Three more Palestinians were briefly detained.
Soldiers alleged that Hanin carried a knife when she was taken prisoner, while her family affirmed she was cooking in the kitchen when the attack took place. And, when she heard a loud noise, resulting from the Israeli invasion, she rushed outside to see what was going on, and was kidnapped by the soldiers.
The soldiers were kidnapping her brother when she stopped out, and jumped on her before arresting her as well.
29 jan 2014
Israeli occupation military intelligence chief Aviv Kochavi
An Israeli military intel official said on Wednesday that “Israel's ability to deter enemies is strong, but on the other hand, terror is still a challenge,” "We call this period in time the "Era of Fire", in light of the amount of missiles and rockets we face as a constant threat," JPost quoted the official Aviv Kochavi .
Speaking of the challenges to guarding the borders of the Israeli occupation, he said that “neighboring countries have little interest in war,”
"The countries around us are busy with themselves, they have less funds to start a war. There is no question that there is a decrease in such threats but they have not given up," he said.
Regarding Egypt, Kochavi proclaimed "any retreat of the Muslim Brotherhood in the region is significant for Israel."
During the last few days, Israeli war criminals repeatedly threatened the Gaza Strip with a military action.
Al Jazeera English reported on January 19 that an Egyptian mediator delivered a threat message from Israel to Gaza's leadership, while the Israeli prime minister threatened on January 21, to teach Gaza's governing Hamas Movement a lesson "very soon".
Since December 20, when a Palestinian citizen was shot dead by Israeli forces while near the Beir Hanon (Erez) crossing in northern Gaza Strip, four Palestinians and an Israeli have been killed.
Secretary General of the Palestinian Ministerial Council in the Gaza Strip, Abdul-Salam Syam, on January 11 called for Egypt to take action to stop the continuous Israeli military aggression on Gaza.
"The Israeli army continues its aggression on the Gaza Strip, intentionally targeting civilians." Syam said, adding that it is a "clear violation of the truce brokered by Egypt, reached in the wake of the Israeli war on the Strip in 2012."
Syam affirmed that all Palestinian factions are "committed to the truce," but that the Israeli occupation breaches it and "targets civilians and the Palestinian resistance."
To face Israeli aggression Syam reiterated that the Palestinian resistance has the right to respond, "in order to protect people."
Dozens of Gazans have been reported injured and killed since the ceasefire agreement following Israel’s November 2012 aggression, which left over 171 Palestinians, including 102 civilians, killed and hundreds injured.
An Israeli military intel official said on Wednesday that “Israel's ability to deter enemies is strong, but on the other hand, terror is still a challenge,” "We call this period in time the "Era of Fire", in light of the amount of missiles and rockets we face as a constant threat," JPost quoted the official Aviv Kochavi .
Speaking of the challenges to guarding the borders of the Israeli occupation, he said that “neighboring countries have little interest in war,”
"The countries around us are busy with themselves, they have less funds to start a war. There is no question that there is a decrease in such threats but they have not given up," he said.
Regarding Egypt, Kochavi proclaimed "any retreat of the Muslim Brotherhood in the region is significant for Israel."
During the last few days, Israeli war criminals repeatedly threatened the Gaza Strip with a military action.
Al Jazeera English reported on January 19 that an Egyptian mediator delivered a threat message from Israel to Gaza's leadership, while the Israeli prime minister threatened on January 21, to teach Gaza's governing Hamas Movement a lesson "very soon".
Since December 20, when a Palestinian citizen was shot dead by Israeli forces while near the Beir Hanon (Erez) crossing in northern Gaza Strip, four Palestinians and an Israeli have been killed.
Secretary General of the Palestinian Ministerial Council in the Gaza Strip, Abdul-Salam Syam, on January 11 called for Egypt to take action to stop the continuous Israeli military aggression on Gaza.
"The Israeli army continues its aggression on the Gaza Strip, intentionally targeting civilians." Syam said, adding that it is a "clear violation of the truce brokered by Egypt, reached in the wake of the Israeli war on the Strip in 2012."
Syam affirmed that all Palestinian factions are "committed to the truce," but that the Israeli occupation breaches it and "targets civilians and the Palestinian resistance."
To face Israeli aggression Syam reiterated that the Palestinian resistance has the right to respond, "in order to protect people."
Dozens of Gazans have been reported injured and killed since the ceasefire agreement following Israel’s November 2012 aggression, which left over 171 Palestinians, including 102 civilians, killed and hundreds injured.
Israeli soldiers shot and killed a Palestinian man near the Ramallah village of Ein Siniya on Wednesday.
A Ma'an reporter identified the victim as Muhammad Mahmoud Mubarak, 22, from al-Jalazun refugee camp.
Israeli forces in the area denied Palestinian ambulances access to the body before medics were eventually allowed to transfer the man to Ramallah Medical Complex.
A Palestinian official in the military liaison department told Ma'an that Mubarak was shot dead by a soldier positioned in a military watchtower.
"A Palestinian terrorist opened fire at an IDF (army) post near Ofra. The soldiers responded immediately in order to eliminate the imminent threat to their lives and fired towards the terrorist, identifying a hit," Israel's army said.
Eyewitnesses in the area told Ma'an that Mubarak was a laborer working with the al-Tarifi company on a USAID funded project to refurbish the main road in Ein Siniya.
A Ma'an reporter identified the victim as Muhammad Mahmoud Mubarak, 22, from al-Jalazun refugee camp.
Israeli forces in the area denied Palestinian ambulances access to the body before medics were eventually allowed to transfer the man to Ramallah Medical Complex.
A Palestinian official in the military liaison department told Ma'an that Mubarak was shot dead by a soldier positioned in a military watchtower.
"A Palestinian terrorist opened fire at an IDF (army) post near Ofra. The soldiers responded immediately in order to eliminate the imminent threat to their lives and fired towards the terrorist, identifying a hit," Israel's army said.
Eyewitnesses in the area told Ma'an that Mubarak was a laborer working with the al-Tarifi company on a USAID funded project to refurbish the main road in Ein Siniya.
Earlier, he had been directing traffic in the area with a handheld sign.
"While he was doing his job, a number of Israeli soldiers arrived and started to harass him," witnesses told Ma'an.
"They forced him to take off his clothes, then put them on again. Then they ordered him to take a few steps forward, then walk back, and finally they shot him and left him bleeding preventing ambulance and medics from reaching him."
Coworkers and an executive from the al-Tarifi company were close-by when the shooting took place.
Last year, Israel's army killed 27 Palestinians in the occupied West Bank, according to UN statistics.
"While he was doing his job, a number of Israeli soldiers arrived and started to harass him," witnesses told Ma'an.
"They forced him to take off his clothes, then put them on again. Then they ordered him to take a few steps forward, then walk back, and finally they shot him and left him bleeding preventing ambulance and medics from reaching him."
Coworkers and an executive from the al-Tarifi company were close-by when the shooting took place.
Last year, Israel's army killed 27 Palestinians in the occupied West Bank, according to UN statistics.
An injured young Palestinian remained at al-Maqased hospital in Jerusalem in stable condition Monday over a week after Israeli forces shot him at a gas station, relatives said.
Alaa Mahmoud Abdul Jawad al-Jamzawi, 20, was shot in his right thigh on Jan. 17 at the gas station where he worked during clashes in Anata village, his uncle, Abu Walid, said.
Al-Jamzawi was taken to al-Iman medical center before being transferred to Ramallah Governmental Hospital where he underwent a 12-hour operation to remove fragments of a bullet.
He suffered major artery and nerve damage, and around 5 cm of bone decayed as a result of the injury.
Days after the injury he was taken to al-Maqased hospital, where he still suffers from pains in the leg but is in stable condition.
Alaa Mahmoud Abdul Jawad al-Jamzawi, 20, was shot in his right thigh on Jan. 17 at the gas station where he worked during clashes in Anata village, his uncle, Abu Walid, said.
Al-Jamzawi was taken to al-Iman medical center before being transferred to Ramallah Governmental Hospital where he underwent a 12-hour operation to remove fragments of a bullet.
He suffered major artery and nerve damage, and around 5 cm of bone decayed as a result of the injury.
Days after the injury he was taken to al-Maqased hospital, where he still suffers from pains in the leg but is in stable condition.
Soldiers Place Sand Barrier On Road Near Beit Ummar
Dozens of Israeli soldiers attempted to invade the al-Azza refugee camp, north of the West Bank city of Bethlehem, and clashed with local youths. Palestinian kidnapped in Deheisha refugee camp.
The Palestine News Network (PNN) has reported that the soldiers were heavily deployed near the Paradise Hotel, adjacent to the camp, and clashed with local youths who hurled stones at them.
The soldiers fired gas bombs, and rubber-coated metal bullets; several injuries among the Palestinians have been reported.
Israeli soldiers repeatedly invade the Paradise Hotel area, and the Intercontinental Hotel area, on both sides of the camp, and install roadblocks before stopping dozens of Palestinian cars and searching them while inspecting the ID cards of the passengers.
The ongoing invasions lead to clashes between the soldiers and local youths, especially since the army frequently targets the camp.
In related news, local sources in the Deheisha refugee camp, in Bethlehem, have reported that dozens of soldiers invaded the camp, and kidnapped one Palestinian.
Also on Tuesday evening, soldiers closed a road leading to the Beit Ummar town, near the southern West Bank city of Hebron.
Local sources said that the army placed a sand barrier on the road, closing an area where more than 200 Palestinians live.
Mohammad Awad, spokesperson of the Popular Committee against the Wall and Settlements in Beit Ummar, told the WAFA Palestinian News Agency that the attack is part of ongoing violations against the Palestinians.
Awad added that the road is essential to the residents, and by closing it, Israel is imposing further restrictions on the Palestinians’ right to freedom of movement.
In addition, dozens of soldiers invaded the al-Eesawiyya town, in occupied East Jerusalem, and clashed with several local youths before kidnapping a Palestinian child.
Dozens of Israeli soldiers attempted to invade the al-Azza refugee camp, north of the West Bank city of Bethlehem, and clashed with local youths. Palestinian kidnapped in Deheisha refugee camp.
The Palestine News Network (PNN) has reported that the soldiers were heavily deployed near the Paradise Hotel, adjacent to the camp, and clashed with local youths who hurled stones at them.
The soldiers fired gas bombs, and rubber-coated metal bullets; several injuries among the Palestinians have been reported.
Israeli soldiers repeatedly invade the Paradise Hotel area, and the Intercontinental Hotel area, on both sides of the camp, and install roadblocks before stopping dozens of Palestinian cars and searching them while inspecting the ID cards of the passengers.
The ongoing invasions lead to clashes between the soldiers and local youths, especially since the army frequently targets the camp.
In related news, local sources in the Deheisha refugee camp, in Bethlehem, have reported that dozens of soldiers invaded the camp, and kidnapped one Palestinian.
Also on Tuesday evening, soldiers closed a road leading to the Beit Ummar town, near the southern West Bank city of Hebron.
Local sources said that the army placed a sand barrier on the road, closing an area where more than 200 Palestinians live.
Mohammad Awad, spokesperson of the Popular Committee against the Wall and Settlements in Beit Ummar, told the WAFA Palestinian News Agency that the attack is part of ongoing violations against the Palestinians.
Awad added that the road is essential to the residents, and by closing it, Israel is imposing further restrictions on the Palestinians’ right to freedom of movement.
In addition, dozens of soldiers invaded the al-Eesawiyya town, in occupied East Jerusalem, and clashed with several local youths before kidnapping a Palestinian child.
Israeli occupation forces (IOF) entered southern Gaza Strip on Tuesday night in a number of tanks and huge bulldozers. Quds Press quoted an eyewitness as saying that the IOF force advanced 50 meters into eastern Khan Younis from Seraij gate.
He said that the soldiers opened intensive, indiscriminate gunfire during the bulldozing of land to the east of Qarara town while warplanes were hovering over the area.
This is the second IOF incursion in the same area over the past 24 hours after Palestinian resistance elements exploded a landmine while an IOF patrol was passing with no casualties inflicted.
He said that the soldiers opened intensive, indiscriminate gunfire during the bulldozing of land to the east of Qarara town while warplanes were hovering over the area.
This is the second IOF incursion in the same area over the past 24 hours after Palestinian resistance elements exploded a landmine while an IOF patrol was passing with no casualties inflicted.
28 jan 2014
Israeli occupation forces (IOF) assaulted a Palestinian young man south of Al-Khalil on Tuesday morning. Eyewitnesses told the PIC reporter that IOF soldiers stationed to the east of Yatta town detained Bajes Hamamde, confiscated his ID, and beat him with their rifle butts.
They said that the soldiers set up a number of ambushes east of Yatta and intercepted passing cars.
Meanwhile, IOF soldiers manning the Karame crossing detained a Palestinian on his return from Omra (minor pilgrimage) in Saudi Arabia.
Local sources said that Fada’a Kamanji, 37, was served a summons after detention and interrogation period at the bridge for intelligence investigation.
They said that Kamanji, a resident of Jenin, was released at a late night hour on Monday after hours of questioning in the Shabak room at the crossing.
They said that the soldiers set up a number of ambushes east of Yatta and intercepted passing cars.
Meanwhile, IOF soldiers manning the Karame crossing detained a Palestinian on his return from Omra (minor pilgrimage) in Saudi Arabia.
Local sources said that Fada’a Kamanji, 37, was served a summons after detention and interrogation period at the bridge for intelligence investigation.
They said that Kamanji, a resident of Jenin, was released at a late night hour on Monday after hours of questioning in the Shabak room at the crossing.
Israeli occupation forces (IOF) in four army vehicles advanced at noon Tuesday into central Gaza Strip to the south east of Maghazi refugee camp. Eyewitnesses told the PIC reporter that the soldiers advanced 150 meters inside the Gaza borders.
They said that the sound of an explosion was heard shortly after the incursion, adding that it was a mortar shell fired by resistance fighters at the area.
Palestinian security sources noted that IOF armored vehicles were seen moving along the border area.
They said that the sound of an explosion was heard shortly after the incursion, adding that it was a mortar shell fired by resistance fighters at the area.
Palestinian security sources noted that IOF armored vehicles were seen moving along the border area.
In a letter to Ban Ki-moon
Palestinian minister of justice in Gaza Attallah Abul-Sabeh said that the ongoing silence of the international community on the daily crimes and violations of Israel and its army against the Palestinians has given them impunity to persist in violating the international law without being held accountable. In a letter addressed to UN secretary-general Ban Ki-moon, Abul-Sabeh explained that Israel's different inhuman practices against the civilian population in the occupied Palestinian lands flagrantly violate Geneva conventions and the international treaties that protect the civilian population under occupation.
He also said that Israel is an occupation entity and its assassination of anyone of the occupied Palestinian people is considered a war crime under the fourth Geneva convention.
The minister appealed to Ki-moon to necessarily intervene to put an end to Israel's serious violations against the occupied Palestinian people and pressure it to immediately stop all its settlement and Judaization activities in the occupied lands.
The minister also called on Ki-moon to pressure Israel to release all Palestinian prisoners, especially women and children, in accordance with Geneva conventions and the international humanitarian law as well as the international laws that protect the human rights and the rights of prisoners.
Palestinian minister of justice in Gaza Attallah Abul-Sabeh said that the ongoing silence of the international community on the daily crimes and violations of Israel and its army against the Palestinians has given them impunity to persist in violating the international law without being held accountable. In a letter addressed to UN secretary-general Ban Ki-moon, Abul-Sabeh explained that Israel's different inhuman practices against the civilian population in the occupied Palestinian lands flagrantly violate Geneva conventions and the international treaties that protect the civilian population under occupation.
He also said that Israel is an occupation entity and its assassination of anyone of the occupied Palestinian people is considered a war crime under the fourth Geneva convention.
The minister appealed to Ki-moon to necessarily intervene to put an end to Israel's serious violations against the occupied Palestinian people and pressure it to immediately stop all its settlement and Judaization activities in the occupied lands.
The minister also called on Ki-moon to pressure Israel to release all Palestinian prisoners, especially women and children, in accordance with Geneva conventions and the international humanitarian law as well as the international laws that protect the human rights and the rights of prisoners.
A Palestinian young man, from Beit Ummar in al-Khalil, was seriously injured as a bus carrying Israeli settlers ran over him near the entrance to the town. Youssef Abu Maria, the coordinator of the village’s popular anti-settlement committee, confirmed that the 20- year-old Mouni Alqam was transferred in critical condition to a hospital in the Green Line.
Abu Maria told Quds Press that the bypass road between Jerusalem and al-Khalil has recently witnessed a number of hit-and-run incidents targeting Palestinians under the security pretext that Palestinians pose dangers to passing Israeli vehicles!
Abu Maria told Quds Press that the bypass road between Jerusalem and al-Khalil has recently witnessed a number of hit-and-run incidents targeting Palestinians under the security pretext that Palestinians pose dangers to passing Israeli vehicles!
Israeli occupation forces (IOF) escorted military bulldozers into southern Gaza Strip on Tuesday morning that bulldozed land to the east of Khan Younis. Local sources told the PIC reporter that the soldiers escorted four bulldozers east of Qarara town and leveled land in the vicinity of Siraj military gate.
They pointed out that the area witnessed the explosion of two explosive devices by Palestinian resistance over the past week.
They pointed out that the area witnessed the explosion of two explosive devices by Palestinian resistance over the past week.
The Israeli Occupation Forces (IOF) detained Monday 27th January, European Press Agency photographer Abed El-Hafiz Al-hashlamoon and WAFA Agency photographer Ahmed Mizher, during their coverage of the clashes erupted between Palestinian citizens and IOF in Khilat Alnahl area near the city of Bethlehem, The Palestinian Center for Development and Media Freedoms (MADA) said in a press release.
Al-hashlamoon reported to the MADA that the IOF searched, insulted, and detained them for about an hour and half .
On a related context, the IOF attacked on Friday 24th January 2014, the French agency photographer Jafaar Ishteya, when he was covering the Kafir Kadoum village north of West Bank weekly demonstration against the wall and the stelment. Ishteya reported to MADA that "During our coverage of the Kafir Kadoum weekly demonstration, as usual we stood on a specific side to be clear to the army that we are journalists so we don't get targeted. I was wearing the appropriate journalist attire a phosphoric painted jacket with the word "press" written on it, since this morning, a soldier got out from behind the wall and began firing volleys of tear gas by an automatic weapon on journalists, I raised my hand to my face for protection but got slammed and was hit by a bomb in my right hand, the injury was minor, and I have received treatment. This was my first injury.
Ishteya added, "once the demonstrators' number increased and clashes erupted, the IOF began firing tear gas; I was standing with three colleagues when we were targeted deliberately and directly with tear gas bombs. I was the closest to the soldiers, I was hit with a bomb straight from the back that hit my right shoulder, I passed out on the ground for seconds, and my jacket burned, MY shoulder was bleeding, so the men rushed me to an ambulance which transferred me to the hospital for treatment".
This wasn't the first time Ishtaeya was attacked by IOF soldiers, where on 17th August 2012, a group of Israeli soldiers beat Ishteya with bats and broke his right arm during his coverage of the Kafir Kadoum weekly demonstration.
MADA Condemns Israeli violations against journalists and calls on the international community to pressure Israeli authorities to stop their attacks and hold aggressors accountable.
Al-hashlamoon reported to the MADA that the IOF searched, insulted, and detained them for about an hour and half .
On a related context, the IOF attacked on Friday 24th January 2014, the French agency photographer Jafaar Ishteya, when he was covering the Kafir Kadoum village north of West Bank weekly demonstration against the wall and the stelment. Ishteya reported to MADA that "During our coverage of the Kafir Kadoum weekly demonstration, as usual we stood on a specific side to be clear to the army that we are journalists so we don't get targeted. I was wearing the appropriate journalist attire a phosphoric painted jacket with the word "press" written on it, since this morning, a soldier got out from behind the wall and began firing volleys of tear gas by an automatic weapon on journalists, I raised my hand to my face for protection but got slammed and was hit by a bomb in my right hand, the injury was minor, and I have received treatment. This was my first injury.
Ishteya added, "once the demonstrators' number increased and clashes erupted, the IOF began firing tear gas; I was standing with three colleagues when we were targeted deliberately and directly with tear gas bombs. I was the closest to the soldiers, I was hit with a bomb straight from the back that hit my right shoulder, I passed out on the ground for seconds, and my jacket burned, MY shoulder was bleeding, so the men rushed me to an ambulance which transferred me to the hospital for treatment".
This wasn't the first time Ishtaeya was attacked by IOF soldiers, where on 17th August 2012, a group of Israeli soldiers beat Ishteya with bats and broke his right arm during his coverage of the Kafir Kadoum weekly demonstration.
MADA Condemns Israeli violations against journalists and calls on the international community to pressure Israeli authorities to stop their attacks and hold aggressors accountable.