5 apr 2015
The Palestinian Ministry of Health disclosed that 561 Palestinian children were killed and thousands others were injured due to Israeli aggressions in Gaza Strip and both of the West Bank and Jerusalem just in one year.
The Ministry confirmed in a statement on Sunday, which marks the Palestinian Child Day, that the Israeli last aggression on Gaza, in summer 2014, had resulted in 550 deaths of Palestinian children in addition to injuries of thousands others including permanent disabilities and amputations of extremities.
The Ministry revealed that it has recorded Israeli aggressive practices that led to the death of 11 Palestinian children in the West Bank areas in addition to the arrest of 800 others by Israeli forces in 2014.
The Palestinian Ministry of Health called on the human rights and other concerned organizations, especially those concerned with childcare, to prosecute the Israeli occupation authority for committing crimes against Palestinian children.
It also called on those institutions to work on obliging Israel to release, without any conditions, the Palestinian minors who are imprisoned in its jails.
Besides, the Ministry called for providing a safe educational environment for the Palestinian children whose schools have become isolated by the Israeli Separation Wall.
The Ministry confirmed in a statement on Sunday, which marks the Palestinian Child Day, that the Israeli last aggression on Gaza, in summer 2014, had resulted in 550 deaths of Palestinian children in addition to injuries of thousands others including permanent disabilities and amputations of extremities.
The Ministry revealed that it has recorded Israeli aggressive practices that led to the death of 11 Palestinian children in the West Bank areas in addition to the arrest of 800 others by Israeli forces in 2014.
The Palestinian Ministry of Health called on the human rights and other concerned organizations, especially those concerned with childcare, to prosecute the Israeli occupation authority for committing crimes against Palestinian children.
It also called on those institutions to work on obliging Israel to release, without any conditions, the Palestinian minors who are imprisoned in its jails.
Besides, the Ministry called for providing a safe educational environment for the Palestinian children whose schools have become isolated by the Israeli Separation Wall.
Jerusalem – Israeli forces demolish a house belonging to Amr family in Wad al-Jouz neighborhood.
Israeli forces have continued with systematic attacks against Palestinian civilians and their property in the occupied Palestinian territories (oPt) for the reporting period of 26 March - April 01 2015.
Israeli attacks in the West Bank & Gaza:
Shootings
During the reporting period, Israeli forces wounded 13 civilians, including an international solidarity activist, a child and a female journalist, in the West Bank and Gaza Strip. Eleven of them, including the international activist, child and journalist, were wounded in the West Bank and the two others were wounded in the Gaza Strip. In the Gaza Strip, Israeli forces continued to target Palestinian fishermen and open fire at border areas along the Gaza Strip.
In the West Bank, on 30 March 2015, journalist Marwa Ebeid (24) sustained a shrapnel wound to the leg when she was covering a protest marking Land Day in the old city of East Jerusalem.
Israeli forces continued the use of excessive and systematic force against peaceful protests organized by Palestinian civilians and Israeli and international solidarity activists against the construction of the annexation wall and settlement activities in the West Bank. As a result, eight protestors, including an international activist, were wounded in Bil'in weekly protest, west of Ramallah, and Kufor Qaddoum, northeast of Qalqilia.
In the same context, two Palestinian civilians, including a child, were wounded during other protests organized at the western entrance of Selwad village, northeast of Ramallah, and the southern entrance of al-Jalazoun refugee camp, north of Ramallah.
In the Gaza Strip, on 30 March 2015, two Palestinian civilians were wounded when Israeli forces stationed along the border fence, east of Khan Yunis, opened fire at a group of Palestinian civilians who were present to the west of the said fence to commemorate the Land Day.
In the same context, on 27 March 2015, Israeli forces stationed along the border fence, east of Khan Yunis, south of the Gaza Strip, opened fire at a group of Palestinian civilians who were present about 10 – 100 meters to the west of the said fence. Israeli forces continued firing sporadically for an hour. As a result, three civilians suffered tear gas inhalation, but no other casualties were reported. A similar incident recurred in the east of Khan Yunis at approximately 12:00 on Saturday, 28 March 2015. As a result, journalist Mothanna al-Najjar, 21, suffered tear gas inhalation. Moreover, the eastern cemetery area, east of Jabalia village, north of the Gaza Strip, witnessed three shooting incidents, but no casualties were reported.
As part of targeting fishermen in the Gaza Strip Sea, on 26 March 2015, Israeli gunboats stationed off al-Waha resort, northwest of Beit Lahia, north of the Gaza Strip, opened fire at and chased Palestinian fishing boats.
On 27 March 2015, Israeli gunboats stationed off al-Sudaniya area, west of Jabalia, north of the Gaza Strip, opened fire at Palestinian fishing boats. Similar attacks occurred on Saturday morning and afternoon, 28 March 2015; at approximately 07:50 on Sunday, 29 March 2015; and at approximately 06:50 on Monday, 30 March 2015. However, neither casualties nor material damage were reported.
Incursions
During the reporting period, Israeli forces conducted at least 51 military incursions into Palestinian communities in the West Bank and 10 ones in East Jerusalem. During these incursions, Israeli forces arrested at least 72 Palestinians, including 14 children and a woman. Thirty-nine of these Palestinians, including eight children and the woman, were arrested in Jerusalem.
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 8 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.
Settlement activities and attacks by settlers against Palestinian civilians and property:
On Thursday, 26 March 2015, Israeli forces moved into Deir Mousa area, west of Sorif village, west of Hebron. The civil administration officer who accompanied the Israeli soldiers distributed three notices to stop construction work in three houses on the pretext of no construction licence.
On Thursday, 26 March 2015, Israeli settlers from "Asfar" settlement and "Bani Kadim" settlement outpost established on Palestinian lands confiscated from the eastern side of al-Shyoukh and Sa'ir villages, northeast of Hebron uprooted and destroyed 1200 olive and almond seedlings, which is only one months old.
On Sunday, 29 March 2015, an Israeli settler deliberately ran down a herd of sheep while passing the main road (Qana Valley Street). As a result, two sheep had fractures while 27 others were hurt. Israeli forces also handcuffed the aforementioned civilian following the attack and then took him to "Karnei Shomron" police station and detained him for hours until he was released.
Use of excessive force against peaceful demonstrations protesting settlement activities and the construction of the annexation wall:
During the reporting period, Israeli soldiers used excessive force against peaceful demonstrations organized by Palestinian civilians, international and Israeli human rights defenders in protest at the construction of the annexation wall and settlement activities in the West Bank. As a result, eight protestors, including an international solidarity activist.
In the same context, two Palestinian civilians, including a child, were wounded in two protests at the western entrance of Silwad village, northeast of Ramallah; and at the southern entrance of al-Jalazoun refugee camp, north of the city.
Additionally, Israeli forces arrested three civilians, including Jamil al-Barghouthi (47), the acting head of the popular committee against the annexation wall and settlement activities, and a 17-year-old girl.
(PCHR keeps the names of the wounded in fear of being arrested by the Israeli forces within its policy to oppress the peaceful protests and prevent Palestinian civilians from participating).
Demonstrations against the construction of the annexation wall and settlement activity
Following the Friday prayer, on 27 March 2015, dozens of Palestinian civilians and international and Israeli human rights defenders organized a peaceful demonstration in Bil’in, west of Ramallah, in protest at the construction of the annexation wall and settlement activities. Protestors marched by the annexation wall and tried to cross the fence. Israeli soldiers stationed behind the wall, in the western area, and a large number of soldiers deployed along it, fired live bullets, tear gas canisters, rubber-coated steel bullets, sound bombs and wastewater at them and chased them into the olive fields. As a result, three protestors, including two Palestinians and an international solidarity activist, were wounded. They also detained Mahmoud Khaled Abu Rahma (12) for three hours. An Icelandic solidarity activist (28) sustained a bullet wound to the right elbow and was taken to Palestine Medical Compound in Ramallah; an 18-year-old civilian sustained a bullet wound to the right leg; and a 50-year-old sustained a bullet wound to the back.
Around the same time, dozens of Palestinian civilians organised a peaceful demonstration in the centre of Ni’lin village, west of Ramallah, in protest at the construction of the annexation wall and settlement activities. The demonstrators took the streets and headed to the annexation wall. Israeli forces closed the gates of the wall with barbwires and prevented the demonstrators from crossing to the land behind it before they responded by throwing stones. Israeli soldiers fired live ammunition, rubber-coated metal bullets, sound bombs and tear gas canisters at the civilians, and chased them into the village. As a result, a number of demonstrators suffered tear gas inhalation and others sustained bruises as they were beaten up.
Also following the Friday prayer, dozens of Palestinian civilians and Israeli and international human rights defenders gathered in the center of al-Nabi Saleh village, northwest of Ramallah, to start the weekly peaceful protest against the construction of the annexation wall and settlement activities. They made their way towards Palestinian lands that Israeli settlers from the nearby "Halmish" settlement are trying to seize. Israeli soldiers closed all the village's entrances to prevent the Palestinian and international solidarity activists and journalists from participating in the protest. Of the detained activists and journalists, was Sarah al-Athera (27), reporter of Palestine TV, who was questioned on some pictures of protestors in previous protests; and Feras Khalil Yusef Haikal (41), director of Ramallah and al-Bireh Governorate office, who was violently pulled from his car, attacked and verbally insulted in Arabic by an Israeli officer. Haikal and Dr. Laila Ghannam, Mayor of Ramallah, were threatened to be arrested if they participated in the protest. When protestors reached the abovementioned lands, but Israeli soldiers denied them access and fired live ammunition, rubber-coated metal bullets, sound bombs and tear gas canisters. As a result, a number of protestors suffered tear gas inhalation and others sustained bruises as they were beaten up by Israeli soldiers. Furthermore, Israeli forces arrested Jamil Barghouthi (47), the acting director of the committee against the annexation wall and settlement activities, and took him to Ofer detention facility, southwest of the city.
At approximately 12:30, Palestinian civilians and international solidarity activists organized a protest in the center of Kufor Qaddoum village, northeast of Qalqilya, heading to the eastern entrance of the village in protest against closing that entrance since the beginning of al-Aqsa Intifada with an iron gate. The demonstrators threw stones at Israeli soldiers, who fired sound bombs and tear gas canisters in response. As a result, 5 protestors were wounded. A 21-year-old civilian sustained two bullet wounds to the left and right legs, 22-year-old civilian sustained a bullet wound to the lower abdomen, a 44-year-old civilian sustained a bullet wound to the belly, a 47-year-old civilian sustained a bullet wound to the right leg and an 18-year-old civilian sustained a bullet wound to the head.
Other demonstrations
Following the Friday prayer, 27 March 2015, dozens of Palestinians gathered at the western entrance of the Silwad village, northeast of Ramallah, on the road between Silwad and Yabroud villages, near Bypass road (60), in protest at the Israeli policies. Protestors set fire to tires and threw stones and Molotov Cocktails at the aforementioned road and Israeli soldiers. In response, Israeli soldiers stationed in the area fired live ammunition, rubber-coated bullets, sound bombs and tear gas canisters at the protestors. As a result, a 15-year-old male sustained a bullet wound to the right leg and was taken to Palestine Medical Compound.
On Friday afternoon, dozens of youngsters gathered from different areas of Ramallah and al-Bireh in the vicinity of Ofer detention facility, southwest of Ramallah. They headed towards the facility’s gate that was closed by Israeli soldiers. They set fire to tires and threw stones and empty bottles at the soldiers. Israeli forces deployed around the detention facility and started firing live and rubber-coated metal bullets, sound bombs and tear gas canisters. As a result, a number of protestors suffered tear gas inhalation and others sustained bruises as they were beaten up by Israeli soldiers.
Also following the Friday prayer, dozens of children and young men gathered at the southern entrance of al-Jalazoun refugee camp, north of Ramallah. They were about 300 meters away from the fence of "Beit Eil" settlement. Israeli forces stationed in the area fired live ammunition, rubber-coated metal bullets, sound bombs and tear gas canisters. As a result, a 23-year-old civilian sustained burns in the face and neck as he was hit by a gas canister. He was taken to Palestine Medical Compound in Ramallah to receive the necessary medical treatment.
Protests marking Land Day
At approximately 10:00 on Monday, 30 March 2015, two protests were organized on the 39th anniversary of the Land Day. The first one headed from al-Shuhada intersection in the centre of Nablus, and the other headed from the centre of Howara village, south of the city, towards Howara checkpoint at the southern entrance of the city. The protesters were surprised by the big number of Israeli vehicles and soldiers at the checkpoint. Israeli soldiers fired tear gas canisters and sound bombs and sprayed pepper spray at the protestors to disperse them. In the meanwhile, Israeli soldiers attacked journalists covering the protest and fired tear gas canisters and sound bombs at them to prevent them from doing so. The attacked journalists were: Ahmed Tal'at Fawzi Hassan, Alaa Badarna, Nidal Ishtaiya, Ja'fer Ishtaiya and Hassan al-Titi. Moreover, Israeli forces attacked paramedics who were at the checkpoint and inside the village and prevented them from offering first aid to the wounded protestors.
At approximately 11:00, on the same day, dozens of Palestinian youngsters and farmers gathered at the main entrance to Silwad village, northeast of Ramallah, to organize a protest on the 39th anniversary of Land Day. They made their way to agricultural lands, south of the village, to plant olive seedlings in lands threatened to be forcibly seized by settlers near "Ofra" settlement. Israeli forces deployed since early morning in the abovementioned area. Once protesters approached, Israeli forces fired sound bombs. In the meanwhile, protestors and Israeli soldiers quarrelled. As a result, many protestors suffered tear gas inhalation and others sustained bruises as they were harshly pushed by Israeli soldiers. Furthermore, Israeli forces arrested Abdul Hadi Ahmed Hussein Hejazi (20), from the eastern Mazra'a village, and took him to an unknown destination.
In the afternoon, dozens of Palestinian civilians gathered in front of Ofer detention facility, southwest of Ramallah, to organize a protest commemorating the 39th anniversary of Land Day. Israeli forces closed the facility's main gate and were deployed around. They also fired used live ammunition and fired rubber-coated metal bullets, sound bombs and tear gas canisters at the protestors, who ran away in the olive farms. As a result, a number of protestors suffered tear gas inhalation. Israeli soldiers also arrested Rowan Helmi Mohammed Abed Araj (17) and took her into the facility. At approximately 20:00, the girl was released at Qalandia military checkpoint, north of Jerusalem, as she was delivered to the Palestinian liaison.
Continued closure of the oPt:
Israel continued to impose a tight closure on the oPt, imposing severe restrictions on the movement of Palestinian civilians in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, including occupied East Jerusalem.
Gaza Strip
Israeli forces continuously tighten the closure of the Gaza Strip and close all commercial crossings, making the Karm Abu Salem crossing the sole commercial crossing of the Gaza Strip, although it is not suitable for commercial purposes in terms of its operational capacity and distance from markets.
Israeli forces have continued to apply the policy, which is aimed to tighten the closure on all commercial crossings, by imposing total control over the flow of imports and exports.
The total closure of al-Mentar ("Karni") crossing since 02 March 2011 has seriously affected the economy of the Gaza Strip. Following this closure, all economic and commercial establishments in the Gaza Commercial Zone were shut off. It should be noted that al-Mentar crossing is the biggest crossing in the Gaza Strip, in terms of its capacity to absorb the flow of imports and exports. The decision to close al-Mentar crossing was the culmination of a series of decisions resulting in the complete closure of the Sofa crossing, east of the Gaza Strip in the beginning of 2009, and the Nahal Oz crossing, east of Gaza City, which were dedicated for the delivery of fuel and cooking gas to the Gaza Strip, in the beginning of 2010.
Israeli forces have continued to impose a total ban on the delivery of raw materials to the Gaza Strip, except for very limited items and quantities. The limited quantities of raw materials allowed into Gaza do not meet the minimal needs of the civilian population of the Gaza Strip.
The cooking gas crisis has fluctuated due to the closure of Karm Abu Salem for security claims. According to PCHR’s follow-up, Israeli authorities only allow an average of 98 tons of cooking gas into Gaza per day. This limited quantity is less than half of the daily needs, which is 200 tons per day of the civilian population in the Gaza Strip during winter. The crisis has unprecedentedly aggravated for around six weeks due to cold weather and overconsumption in addition to the power outage and using gas as an alternative in many instances of electricity. The lack of diesel and benzene led to the aggravation of the crisis as a result of using the gas cylinder for cars or as an alternative for benzene to run generators. As a result, the demand for gas further increased.
For almost 7 consecutive years, Israeli forces have continued to prevent the delivery of construction materials to the Gaza Strip. Two years ago, Israeli forces approved the delivery of limited quantities of construction materials for a number of international organizations in the Gaza Strip. On 17 September 2013, they allowed the entry of limited quantities of construction materials for the private sector. However, on 13 October 2013, they re-banned it claiming that these materials are used for constructing tunnels. Last week, Israeli forces allowed the entry of construction materials only for UNRWA and UNDP projects. As a result, construction works have completely stopped impacting all sectors related to construction and an increase in unemployment levels. During the 51-day Israeli offensive on the Gaza Strip in July and August 2014, Israeli authorities did not allow the entry of any construction materials. As a result, vital and infrastructure projects have been obstructed so far.
Israeli forces also continued to impose an almost total ban on the Gaza Strip exports, including agricultural and industrial products, except for light-weighted products such as flowers, strawberries, and spices.
Israel has continued to close the Beit Hanoun (“Erez”) crossing for the majority of Palestinian citizens from the Gaza Strip. Israel only allows the movement of a limited number of groups, with many hours of waiting in the majority of cases. Israel has continued to adopt a policy aimed at reducing the number of Palestinian patients allowed to move via the Beit Hanoun crossing to receive medical treatment in hospitals in Israel or in the West Bank and East Jerusalem. Israel denied permission to access hospitals via the crossing for new categories of patients from the Gaza Strip.
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 have continued to impose severe restrictions on the movement of Palestinian civilians. At approximately 07:00 on Thursday, 26 March 2015, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the entrance of Beit Kahel village, northwest of the city. At approximately 16:00, another checkpoint was established at the northern entrance of Halhoul, north of Hebron. Later, the two checkpoints were removed, and no arrests were reported.
At approximately 07:30 on Monday, 30 March 2015, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the northern entrance of Hebron. Later, the checkpoint was removed, and no arrests were reported.
Ramallah: Israeli forces have continued to impose severe restrictions on the movement of Palestinian civilians. At approximately 10:30 on Thursday, 26 March 2015, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the entrance of 'Aaboud village, northwest of the city. At approximately 20:30, Israeli forces established another checkpoint at the entrance of Termes'ayah village, north of the city. Both checkpoints were removed and no arrests were reported.
At approximately 10:00 on Saturday, 28 March 2015, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the entrance of Ras Karkar village, northwest of Ramallah. At approximately 13:30, another checkpoint was established at the entrance of Qebya village, west of the city. Later, both checkpoints were removed and no arrests were reported.
Jericho: Israeli forces have continued to impose severe restrictions on the movement of Palestinian civilians. At approximately 10:30 on Friday, 27 March 2015, Israeli forces established a checkpoint near the entrance of Fasayel village, north of the city. Later, the checkpoint was removed, and no arrests were reported.
At approximately 20:00 on Saturday, 28 March 2015, another checkpoint was established at the southern entrance of Jericho. Later, the checkpoint was removed and no arrests were reported.
Qalqilya: Israeli forces have continued to impose severe restrictions on the movement of Palestinian civilians. At approximately 18:00 on Thursday, 26 March 2015, Israeli forces established a checkpoint between the villages of 'Ezbet Salman and Ras 'Atiyah, east of Qalqilya. At approximately 19:20, another checkpoint was established between the villages of Amatin and al-Fondoq, northeast of the city. Both checkpoints were later removed, and no arrests were reported.
At approximately 19:30 on Saturday, 28 March 2015, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the eastern entrance of Qalqilya. At approximately 21:25, the checkpoint was removed and no arrests were reported.
At approximately 01:10 on Saturday, 29 March 2015, Israeli forces established another checkpoint between the villages of 'Azoun and Kufor Tholth, east of Qalqilya. At approximately 03:00, the checkpoint was removed, and no arrests were reported.
Tulkarm: Israeli forces have continued to impose severe restrictions on the movement of Palestinian civilians. At approximately 12:30 on Thursday, 26 March 2015, Israeli forces stationed at ‘Annab military checkpoint which is established on the road between Tulkarm and Nablus, east of the city, tightened their restrictions against civilians and obstructed their movement. Later that day, the tightening ended and no arrests were reported. The tightening renewed at approximately 12:30 on Saturday, 28 March 2015, at approximately 10:30 on Sunday, 29 March 2015, at approximately 07:00 on Monday, 30 March 2015, at approximately 22:30 on Monday, 30 March 2015, and at approximately 14:00 on Wednesday, 01 April 2015.
At approximately 20:00 on the same day, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the entrance of Shofah village, east of Tulkarm. The checkpoint was later removed, and no arrests were removed.
At approximately 23:30 on Friday, 27 March 2015, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the entrance of 'Ezbet Shofah village, east of Tulkarm. The checkpoint was later removed, and no arrests were removed.
Salfit: Israeli forces have continued to impose severe restrictions on the movement of Palestinian civilians. At approximately 23:30 on Monday, 30 March 2015, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the entrance of Deir Ballut village, west of Salfit. Later, the two checkpoints were removed, and no arrests were reported.
At approximately 15:00 on Tuesday, 31 March 2015, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the western entrance of Kafr al-Deek, west of Salfit. Around the same time, another checkpoint was established at the entrance of Deir Ballut village, west of Salfit. Both checkpoints were later removed, and no arrests were reported.
Arrests and Maltreatment at Military Checkpoints
At approximately 18:00 on Thursday, 26 March 2015, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the eastern entrance of Qalqilya. They arrested Amir 'Ali Soliman Abu Shehab (25) from Qalqilya and withdrew later taking the aforementioned to an unknown destination.
At approximately 18:00 on Friday, 27 March 2015, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the entrance of 'Azoun village, east of Qalqilya. They arrested Khaled Isma'il Saleh Sweidan (18) from the aforementioned village and withdrew later taking him to an unknown destination.
At approximately 01:30 on Sunday, 29 March 2015, Israeli forces stationed at Movedetan checkpoint established on the main road between Jenin and the northern villages of Tulkarm near the entrance of "Mavi Dutan" settlement established on Palestinian lands, southwest of Jenin tightened their arbitrary restrictions against Palestinian civilians and obstructed their movement. When Saber Khaled Saber Masarwah (26) from Jenin, was passing through the checkpoint, he was stopped and questioned on the spot. Israeli soldiers then arrested the aforementioned civilian and took him to an unknown destination.
At approximately 05:00 the same day, Israeli forces arrested four workers from Hosan village, west of Bethlehem, when they were trying to go to their work in Occupied Jerusalem on the pretext of not obtaining permits. The workers were arrested when they were near "Tsour Hadasa" settlement adjacent to Foqin Valley village, west of Bethlehem. They were identified as Mahmoud 'Abdel 'Aziz Shoushah (42); Mohammed Ismai'l Hamamrah (35); Tariq Isma'il Hamarah (28); and Ahmed Najeh al-'Ezzah (19).
At approximately 10:00 on Monday, 30 March 2015, Israeli forces stationed at the entrance of "Gosh 'Etzion" settlement, south of Bethlehem, arrested Qosay Ra'ed Abu Hashem (15) from Beit Ummar village, north of Hebron. They arrested the aforementioned child after heading for an interview with the Israeli intelligence. He was taken to an unknown destination.
At approximately 14:00 on the same Monday, Israeli forces stationed at the checkpoint of Jab'ah village, west of Bethlehem, arrested Fadi Hani 'Aadi (23) and his brother Mohammed (22) while passing by the area. They were taken to an unknown destination.
At approximately 19:00 on Tuesday, 31 March 2015, Israeli forces arrested Ahmed Sarhan Sabatin (16) while passing through a checkpoint established by the Israeli soldiers in al-Mtaynah area in Housan village, west of Bethlehem. He was then taken to an unknown destination.
Israeli forces arrest two traders from Rafah at Beit Hanoun " Erez" Crossing in Northern Gaza Strip
At approximately 11:00 on Monday, 30 March 2015, Israeli forces arrested two traders while trying to travel through Beit Hanoun "Erez" Crossing in the northern Gaza Strip. The detained persons were identified as Sa'id 'Ayesh 'Abed Abu Tohlah (55) and his brother 'Aadel (39).
According to information obtained by PCHR, the two brothers went to Beit Hanoun Crossing to travel to Ramallah in the West Bank. When they arrived at the crossing, Israeli forces arrested them. The son of Sa'id received a call later informing him that his father and uncle were arrested by the Israeli forces.
Efforts to create Jewish demographic majority in occupied East Jerusalem
House demolitions and demolition notices
At approximately 11:00 on Sunday, 29 March 2015, Kefah Da'na demolished parts of his house in Bab al-Selsela neighbourhood in the old city of East Jerusalem, to avoid paying fines to the Israeli municipality.
Da'na said to a PCHR fieldworker that 15 years ago, he built a kitchen and a bathroom in his house, but six years ago he received a demolition notice from the Israeli municipality on the pretext they were not licensed. Da'na added that he could delay the demolition of the kitchen and bathroom throughout the past years and paid over NIS 60,000 for that. Now he was obliged to demolish them by his own to avoid paying the municipality's fine. Da'na said that he obtained a permit to repair his house because of problems in the infrastructure and the walls dampness, but the so-called Antiquities Authority imposed many restrictions for the house reparations.
At approximately 09:00 on Tuesday, 31 March 2015, Israeli municipality bulldozers demolished a number of residential facilities and horse barns in Wad al-Jouz neighbourhood, east of the old city of East Jerusalem, without prior warning.
An eyewitness said that Israeli forces accompanied by the municipality bulldozers moved into Wad al-Jouz neighbourhood and closed all entrances leading to that neighbourhood, few meters away from al-Asbat Gate of al-Aqsa Mosque. He added that they demolished facilities belonging to the Amr family and horses facilities belonging to Toutah family without prior warning.
Dr Jamal Amr said to a PCHR fieldworker that Israeli forces surrounded his house and kept all his family members in a room to demolish parts of the house. They demolished a room, a balcony, astore and fences. He said that Israeli soldiers harshly pushed his two brothers: Nour al-Din and Sharif. He also pointed that the demolished facilities were built before the Israeli occupation of Jerusalem in 1967.
Hani Toutah said to the PCHR fieldworker that Israeli bulldozers demolished five rooms belonging to him; four of which were used as horse stables and the fifth one was used for his kids to play in. he added that the municipality started demolishing without prior warning or demolition notice although the room were licensed by the municipality 25 years ago.
In the same context, at approximately 12:00, Israeli bulldozers demolished foundations of 3 houses belonging to al-Abbasi family in al-Mukaber Mount neighbourhood under the pretext they were not licensed. Sa'id al-Abbasi said to PCHR's fieldworker that his family started laying the foundation of the house four months ago because two of his sons and his brother (about 20 persons) moved in that place. He explained that the family learnt about the demolition order that was pinned on the foundations three days earlier. The family tried to defer the order, but bulldozers demolished the foundations before any legal measure was taken.
Shooting incidents
At approximately 16:00 on Monday, 30 March 2015, dozens of Palestinians organized a protest on the Land Day in the old city of East Jerusalem. They headed from al-Bab Amoud area to Sultan Suleiman Street then Saladin Street. They chanted slogans against Israeli occupation and settlement activities. In the meanwhile, Israeli soldiers chased the protestors and fired sound bombs and tear gas canisters at them. As a result, journalist Marwa Ebeid (24) sustained sound bomb shrapnel wound to the leg. Israeli forces also arrested Noha al-Qotob, Mohammed Jaber (23) and Fathi Nasser (21).
Incursions and arrests
At approximately 05:00 on Thursday, 26 March 2015, Israeli forces moved into a number of neighbourhoods in the old city of East Jerusalem. They raided a number of houses from which they arrested three civilians, including two children: Saleh Sandouqa (17), Khaled Malhas (16) and Mohammed Bouja (19).
At approximately 08:00 on the same day, Israeli forces raided a house belonging to Ali Sharabati in Wad al-Jouz neighbourhood, east of the old city in East Jerusalem. They searched the house and arrested his son Ahmed (14).
At approximately 05:00 on Sunday, 29 March 2015, Israeli forces raided and searched a house belonging to Khalil al-Abassi in Ein al-Louza neighbourhood in Silwan village, south of East Jerusalem. They photographed the house and arrested his sons Abdul Rahim (30) and Ayed (25).
At approximately 04:00, on Monday, 30 March 2015, Israeli forces moved into Ras al-Amoud neighbourhood, east of East Jerusalem. They raided a number of houses from which they arrested four civilians: Jihad Taha (30), Amr Abu Arafa (28), Mohammed Rokon (22) and Jihad Aweida (40).
At approximately 04:30, Israeli forces moved into Shu'fat neighbourhood, north of East Jerusalem. They raided a number of houses from which they arrested Abdul Nasser Essa (15) and Omer Mazen Abu Asab (15).
At approximately 05:00, Israeli forces moved into a number of neighbourhoods in the old city of East Jerusalem. They raided a number of houses from which they arrested three civilians: Ehab al-Jallad (39); Mohammed Mona (20); and Mohammed Bseiso (20).
At approximately 12:00, Israeli forces arrested two Palestinians while being in al-Wad neighbourhood in the old city of East Jerusalem: Naji Akram Zgheer (20) and Sofyan Lo'ai Jadallah (19).
At approximately 13:00, Israeli forces arrested two Palestinian women who were near al-Ghawanma Gate of al-Aqsa Mosque in East Jerusalem: Ayda Ahmed al-Seidawi (58) and Alaa al-Joulani (46).
At approximately 13:30, Israeli forces arrested Mahdi al-Abassi (26) while going to a court hearing for his cousins (Abdul Rahim and Ayed) in the district court in East Jerusalem.
At approximately 16:00, Israeli forces arrested Tareq Mohammed al-Shweiki (14) when he was in al-Aqsa Mosque yards in East Jerusalem. He was taken to al-Qashala police station.
At approximately 19:00, Israeli forces harshly beat and arrested Ahmed Mansour al-Resheq (13) when he was present around his family's house in Ein al-Louza neighbourhood in Silwan village, south of the old city in East Jerusalem. They took him to Saladin police station to be questioned.
At approximately 11:00 on Tuesday, 31 March 2015, Israeli forces moved into some neighbourhoods in the old city of East Jerusalem. They raided and searched a number of houses from which they arrested six civilians, including two children: Hejazi Abu Sbaih (21); Yasser Ahmed Najib (23); Wesam Nasser Seder (22); Adli Nasser al-Din (19); Feras Yusif Dandis (13); and Mohammed Sa'id Iskafi (15).
At approximately 21:00, on the same day, Israeli forces arrested three Palestinian youngsters from al-Mukaber Mount neighbourhood while crossing via al-Nafaq checkpoint, south of East Jerusalem. The arrested were: Murad Tawfiq Abu Sarhan (23); Aziz Mahmoud Abu Sarhan (24); and Ali Hassan Ebeidiya (24).
At approximately 22:00, Israeli forces raided and searched a house belonging to Ahmed Abu Shousha in Wad al-Jouz neighbourhood, east of the old city of East Jerusalem. They arrested his son Yusef and took him to an unknown destination.
At approximately 23:00, Israeli forces moved into some neighbourhoods in the old city of East Jerusalem. They raided and searched a number of houses from which they arrested three civilians: Omer Mo'taz Wazwaz (21); Hazem Nour al-Din al-Dajani (19); and Malek Ahmed Shweiki (19).
At approximately 01:00 on Wednesday, 01 April 2015, Israeli forces raided a house belonging to paramedic Fo'ad Ebeid (23) in al-Eisawiya village, north of East Jerusalem. They arrested the aforementioned person and took him to an unknown destination.
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.
At approximately 10:30 on Thursday, 26 March 2015, Israeli forces moved into Deir Mousa area, west of Sorif village, west of Hebron. They stationed in the vicinity of the houses, and the civil officer who accompanied the Israeli soldiers distributed three notices to stop construction work in three houses on the pretext of the lack of construction licences.
The notices were about the following:
1. A 150-square-meter under-construction house belonging to Zaher Soliman Younis Safi (30);
2. A 150-square-meter inhabited house belonging to Maha 'Issa Mousa Ghneimat (53); and
3. A 150-square-meter under-finishing house belonging to Mousa Soliman Mousa Ghneimat (47)
On Thursday, 26 March 2015, Israeli settlers from "Asfar" settlement and "Bani Kadim" settlement outpost established on Palestinian lands confiscated from the eastern side of al-Shyoukh and Sa'ir villages, northeast of Hebron, uprooted and destroyed 1,200 olive and almond seedlings, which were planted only one month ago. The seedlings were donated by the Palestinian Ministry of Agriculture and YMCA. The attacked land belong to the al-'Ayaydah family and is located in al-Waslah area, east of al-Shyoukh village.
At approximately 10:00 on Sunday, 29 March 2015, an Israeli settler deliberately ran down a herd of sheep belonging to Sa'ed 'Abdel Fattah Rashid Bashir (38) from Jeensafout village, east of Qalqilya, while passing the main road (Qana Valley Street). As a result, two sheep had fractures while 27 others were hurt. Israeli forces also handcuffed the aforementioned civilian following the attack and took him to "Karni Shomron " police station and held him for hours before releasing him.
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.
Full, detailed document
Israeli forces have continued with systematic attacks against Palestinian civilians and their property in the occupied Palestinian territories (oPt) for the reporting period of 26 March - April 01 2015.
Israeli attacks in the West Bank & Gaza:
Shootings
During the reporting period, Israeli forces wounded 13 civilians, including an international solidarity activist, a child and a female journalist, in the West Bank and Gaza Strip. Eleven of them, including the international activist, child and journalist, were wounded in the West Bank and the two others were wounded in the Gaza Strip. In the Gaza Strip, Israeli forces continued to target Palestinian fishermen and open fire at border areas along the Gaza Strip.
In the West Bank, on 30 March 2015, journalist Marwa Ebeid (24) sustained a shrapnel wound to the leg when she was covering a protest marking Land Day in the old city of East Jerusalem.
Israeli forces continued the use of excessive and systematic force against peaceful protests organized by Palestinian civilians and Israeli and international solidarity activists against the construction of the annexation wall and settlement activities in the West Bank. As a result, eight protestors, including an international activist, were wounded in Bil'in weekly protest, west of Ramallah, and Kufor Qaddoum, northeast of Qalqilia.
In the same context, two Palestinian civilians, including a child, were wounded during other protests organized at the western entrance of Selwad village, northeast of Ramallah, and the southern entrance of al-Jalazoun refugee camp, north of Ramallah.
In the Gaza Strip, on 30 March 2015, two Palestinian civilians were wounded when Israeli forces stationed along the border fence, east of Khan Yunis, opened fire at a group of Palestinian civilians who were present to the west of the said fence to commemorate the Land Day.
In the same context, on 27 March 2015, Israeli forces stationed along the border fence, east of Khan Yunis, south of the Gaza Strip, opened fire at a group of Palestinian civilians who were present about 10 – 100 meters to the west of the said fence. Israeli forces continued firing sporadically for an hour. As a result, three civilians suffered tear gas inhalation, but no other casualties were reported. A similar incident recurred in the east of Khan Yunis at approximately 12:00 on Saturday, 28 March 2015. As a result, journalist Mothanna al-Najjar, 21, suffered tear gas inhalation. Moreover, the eastern cemetery area, east of Jabalia village, north of the Gaza Strip, witnessed three shooting incidents, but no casualties were reported.
As part of targeting fishermen in the Gaza Strip Sea, on 26 March 2015, Israeli gunboats stationed off al-Waha resort, northwest of Beit Lahia, north of the Gaza Strip, opened fire at and chased Palestinian fishing boats.
On 27 March 2015, Israeli gunboats stationed off al-Sudaniya area, west of Jabalia, north of the Gaza Strip, opened fire at Palestinian fishing boats. Similar attacks occurred on Saturday morning and afternoon, 28 March 2015; at approximately 07:50 on Sunday, 29 March 2015; and at approximately 06:50 on Monday, 30 March 2015. However, neither casualties nor material damage were reported.
Incursions
During the reporting period, Israeli forces conducted at least 51 military incursions into Palestinian communities in the West Bank and 10 ones in East Jerusalem. During these incursions, Israeli forces arrested at least 72 Palestinians, including 14 children and a woman. Thirty-nine of these Palestinians, including eight children and the woman, were arrested in Jerusalem.
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 8 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.
Settlement activities and attacks by settlers against Palestinian civilians and property:
On Thursday, 26 March 2015, Israeli forces moved into Deir Mousa area, west of Sorif village, west of Hebron. The civil administration officer who accompanied the Israeli soldiers distributed three notices to stop construction work in three houses on the pretext of no construction licence.
On Thursday, 26 March 2015, Israeli settlers from "Asfar" settlement and "Bani Kadim" settlement outpost established on Palestinian lands confiscated from the eastern side of al-Shyoukh and Sa'ir villages, northeast of Hebron uprooted and destroyed 1200 olive and almond seedlings, which is only one months old.
On Sunday, 29 March 2015, an Israeli settler deliberately ran down a herd of sheep while passing the main road (Qana Valley Street). As a result, two sheep had fractures while 27 others were hurt. Israeli forces also handcuffed the aforementioned civilian following the attack and then took him to "Karnei Shomron" police station and detained him for hours until he was released.
Use of excessive force against peaceful demonstrations protesting settlement activities and the construction of the annexation wall:
During the reporting period, Israeli soldiers used excessive force against peaceful demonstrations organized by Palestinian civilians, international and Israeli human rights defenders in protest at the construction of the annexation wall and settlement activities in the West Bank. As a result, eight protestors, including an international solidarity activist.
In the same context, two Palestinian civilians, including a child, were wounded in two protests at the western entrance of Silwad village, northeast of Ramallah; and at the southern entrance of al-Jalazoun refugee camp, north of the city.
Additionally, Israeli forces arrested three civilians, including Jamil al-Barghouthi (47), the acting head of the popular committee against the annexation wall and settlement activities, and a 17-year-old girl.
(PCHR keeps the names of the wounded in fear of being arrested by the Israeli forces within its policy to oppress the peaceful protests and prevent Palestinian civilians from participating).
Demonstrations against the construction of the annexation wall and settlement activity
Following the Friday prayer, on 27 March 2015, dozens of Palestinian civilians and international and Israeli human rights defenders organized a peaceful demonstration in Bil’in, west of Ramallah, in protest at the construction of the annexation wall and settlement activities. Protestors marched by the annexation wall and tried to cross the fence. Israeli soldiers stationed behind the wall, in the western area, and a large number of soldiers deployed along it, fired live bullets, tear gas canisters, rubber-coated steel bullets, sound bombs and wastewater at them and chased them into the olive fields. As a result, three protestors, including two Palestinians and an international solidarity activist, were wounded. They also detained Mahmoud Khaled Abu Rahma (12) for three hours. An Icelandic solidarity activist (28) sustained a bullet wound to the right elbow and was taken to Palestine Medical Compound in Ramallah; an 18-year-old civilian sustained a bullet wound to the right leg; and a 50-year-old sustained a bullet wound to the back.
Around the same time, dozens of Palestinian civilians organised a peaceful demonstration in the centre of Ni’lin village, west of Ramallah, in protest at the construction of the annexation wall and settlement activities. The demonstrators took the streets and headed to the annexation wall. Israeli forces closed the gates of the wall with barbwires and prevented the demonstrators from crossing to the land behind it before they responded by throwing stones. Israeli soldiers fired live ammunition, rubber-coated metal bullets, sound bombs and tear gas canisters at the civilians, and chased them into the village. As a result, a number of demonstrators suffered tear gas inhalation and others sustained bruises as they were beaten up.
Also following the Friday prayer, dozens of Palestinian civilians and Israeli and international human rights defenders gathered in the center of al-Nabi Saleh village, northwest of Ramallah, to start the weekly peaceful protest against the construction of the annexation wall and settlement activities. They made their way towards Palestinian lands that Israeli settlers from the nearby "Halmish" settlement are trying to seize. Israeli soldiers closed all the village's entrances to prevent the Palestinian and international solidarity activists and journalists from participating in the protest. Of the detained activists and journalists, was Sarah al-Athera (27), reporter of Palestine TV, who was questioned on some pictures of protestors in previous protests; and Feras Khalil Yusef Haikal (41), director of Ramallah and al-Bireh Governorate office, who was violently pulled from his car, attacked and verbally insulted in Arabic by an Israeli officer. Haikal and Dr. Laila Ghannam, Mayor of Ramallah, were threatened to be arrested if they participated in the protest. When protestors reached the abovementioned lands, but Israeli soldiers denied them access and fired live ammunition, rubber-coated metal bullets, sound bombs and tear gas canisters. As a result, a number of protestors suffered tear gas inhalation and others sustained bruises as they were beaten up by Israeli soldiers. Furthermore, Israeli forces arrested Jamil Barghouthi (47), the acting director of the committee against the annexation wall and settlement activities, and took him to Ofer detention facility, southwest of the city.
At approximately 12:30, Palestinian civilians and international solidarity activists organized a protest in the center of Kufor Qaddoum village, northeast of Qalqilya, heading to the eastern entrance of the village in protest against closing that entrance since the beginning of al-Aqsa Intifada with an iron gate. The demonstrators threw stones at Israeli soldiers, who fired sound bombs and tear gas canisters in response. As a result, 5 protestors were wounded. A 21-year-old civilian sustained two bullet wounds to the left and right legs, 22-year-old civilian sustained a bullet wound to the lower abdomen, a 44-year-old civilian sustained a bullet wound to the belly, a 47-year-old civilian sustained a bullet wound to the right leg and an 18-year-old civilian sustained a bullet wound to the head.
Other demonstrations
Following the Friday prayer, 27 March 2015, dozens of Palestinians gathered at the western entrance of the Silwad village, northeast of Ramallah, on the road between Silwad and Yabroud villages, near Bypass road (60), in protest at the Israeli policies. Protestors set fire to tires and threw stones and Molotov Cocktails at the aforementioned road and Israeli soldiers. In response, Israeli soldiers stationed in the area fired live ammunition, rubber-coated bullets, sound bombs and tear gas canisters at the protestors. As a result, a 15-year-old male sustained a bullet wound to the right leg and was taken to Palestine Medical Compound.
On Friday afternoon, dozens of youngsters gathered from different areas of Ramallah and al-Bireh in the vicinity of Ofer detention facility, southwest of Ramallah. They headed towards the facility’s gate that was closed by Israeli soldiers. They set fire to tires and threw stones and empty bottles at the soldiers. Israeli forces deployed around the detention facility and started firing live and rubber-coated metal bullets, sound bombs and tear gas canisters. As a result, a number of protestors suffered tear gas inhalation and others sustained bruises as they were beaten up by Israeli soldiers.
Also following the Friday prayer, dozens of children and young men gathered at the southern entrance of al-Jalazoun refugee camp, north of Ramallah. They were about 300 meters away from the fence of "Beit Eil" settlement. Israeli forces stationed in the area fired live ammunition, rubber-coated metal bullets, sound bombs and tear gas canisters. As a result, a 23-year-old civilian sustained burns in the face and neck as he was hit by a gas canister. He was taken to Palestine Medical Compound in Ramallah to receive the necessary medical treatment.
Protests marking Land Day
At approximately 10:00 on Monday, 30 March 2015, two protests were organized on the 39th anniversary of the Land Day. The first one headed from al-Shuhada intersection in the centre of Nablus, and the other headed from the centre of Howara village, south of the city, towards Howara checkpoint at the southern entrance of the city. The protesters were surprised by the big number of Israeli vehicles and soldiers at the checkpoint. Israeli soldiers fired tear gas canisters and sound bombs and sprayed pepper spray at the protestors to disperse them. In the meanwhile, Israeli soldiers attacked journalists covering the protest and fired tear gas canisters and sound bombs at them to prevent them from doing so. The attacked journalists were: Ahmed Tal'at Fawzi Hassan, Alaa Badarna, Nidal Ishtaiya, Ja'fer Ishtaiya and Hassan al-Titi. Moreover, Israeli forces attacked paramedics who were at the checkpoint and inside the village and prevented them from offering first aid to the wounded protestors.
At approximately 11:00, on the same day, dozens of Palestinian youngsters and farmers gathered at the main entrance to Silwad village, northeast of Ramallah, to organize a protest on the 39th anniversary of Land Day. They made their way to agricultural lands, south of the village, to plant olive seedlings in lands threatened to be forcibly seized by settlers near "Ofra" settlement. Israeli forces deployed since early morning in the abovementioned area. Once protesters approached, Israeli forces fired sound bombs. In the meanwhile, protestors and Israeli soldiers quarrelled. As a result, many protestors suffered tear gas inhalation and others sustained bruises as they were harshly pushed by Israeli soldiers. Furthermore, Israeli forces arrested Abdul Hadi Ahmed Hussein Hejazi (20), from the eastern Mazra'a village, and took him to an unknown destination.
In the afternoon, dozens of Palestinian civilians gathered in front of Ofer detention facility, southwest of Ramallah, to organize a protest commemorating the 39th anniversary of Land Day. Israeli forces closed the facility's main gate and were deployed around. They also fired used live ammunition and fired rubber-coated metal bullets, sound bombs and tear gas canisters at the protestors, who ran away in the olive farms. As a result, a number of protestors suffered tear gas inhalation. Israeli soldiers also arrested Rowan Helmi Mohammed Abed Araj (17) and took her into the facility. At approximately 20:00, the girl was released at Qalandia military checkpoint, north of Jerusalem, as she was delivered to the Palestinian liaison.
Continued closure of the oPt:
Israel continued to impose a tight closure on the oPt, imposing severe restrictions on the movement of Palestinian civilians in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, including occupied East Jerusalem.
Gaza Strip
Israeli forces continuously tighten the closure of the Gaza Strip and close all commercial crossings, making the Karm Abu Salem crossing the sole commercial crossing of the Gaza Strip, although it is not suitable for commercial purposes in terms of its operational capacity and distance from markets.
Israeli forces have continued to apply the policy, which is aimed to tighten the closure on all commercial crossings, by imposing total control over the flow of imports and exports.
The total closure of al-Mentar ("Karni") crossing since 02 March 2011 has seriously affected the economy of the Gaza Strip. Following this closure, all economic and commercial establishments in the Gaza Commercial Zone were shut off. It should be noted that al-Mentar crossing is the biggest crossing in the Gaza Strip, in terms of its capacity to absorb the flow of imports and exports. The decision to close al-Mentar crossing was the culmination of a series of decisions resulting in the complete closure of the Sofa crossing, east of the Gaza Strip in the beginning of 2009, and the Nahal Oz crossing, east of Gaza City, which were dedicated for the delivery of fuel and cooking gas to the Gaza Strip, in the beginning of 2010.
Israeli forces have continued to impose a total ban on the delivery of raw materials to the Gaza Strip, except for very limited items and quantities. The limited quantities of raw materials allowed into Gaza do not meet the minimal needs of the civilian population of the Gaza Strip.
The cooking gas crisis has fluctuated due to the closure of Karm Abu Salem for security claims. According to PCHR’s follow-up, Israeli authorities only allow an average of 98 tons of cooking gas into Gaza per day. This limited quantity is less than half of the daily needs, which is 200 tons per day of the civilian population in the Gaza Strip during winter. The crisis has unprecedentedly aggravated for around six weeks due to cold weather and overconsumption in addition to the power outage and using gas as an alternative in many instances of electricity. The lack of diesel and benzene led to the aggravation of the crisis as a result of using the gas cylinder for cars or as an alternative for benzene to run generators. As a result, the demand for gas further increased.
For almost 7 consecutive years, Israeli forces have continued to prevent the delivery of construction materials to the Gaza Strip. Two years ago, Israeli forces approved the delivery of limited quantities of construction materials for a number of international organizations in the Gaza Strip. On 17 September 2013, they allowed the entry of limited quantities of construction materials for the private sector. However, on 13 October 2013, they re-banned it claiming that these materials are used for constructing tunnels. Last week, Israeli forces allowed the entry of construction materials only for UNRWA and UNDP projects. As a result, construction works have completely stopped impacting all sectors related to construction and an increase in unemployment levels. During the 51-day Israeli offensive on the Gaza Strip in July and August 2014, Israeli authorities did not allow the entry of any construction materials. As a result, vital and infrastructure projects have been obstructed so far.
Israeli forces also continued to impose an almost total ban on the Gaza Strip exports, including agricultural and industrial products, except for light-weighted products such as flowers, strawberries, and spices.
Israel has continued to close the Beit Hanoun (“Erez”) crossing for the majority of Palestinian citizens from the Gaza Strip. Israel only allows the movement of a limited number of groups, with many hours of waiting in the majority of cases. Israel has continued to adopt a policy aimed at reducing the number of Palestinian patients allowed to move via the Beit Hanoun crossing to receive medical treatment in hospitals in Israel or in the West Bank and East Jerusalem. Israel denied permission to access hospitals via the crossing for new categories of patients from the Gaza Strip.
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 have continued to impose severe restrictions on the movement of Palestinian civilians. At approximately 07:00 on Thursday, 26 March 2015, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the entrance of Beit Kahel village, northwest of the city. At approximately 16:00, another checkpoint was established at the northern entrance of Halhoul, north of Hebron. Later, the two checkpoints were removed, and no arrests were reported.
At approximately 07:30 on Monday, 30 March 2015, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the northern entrance of Hebron. Later, the checkpoint was removed, and no arrests were reported.
Ramallah: Israeli forces have continued to impose severe restrictions on the movement of Palestinian civilians. At approximately 10:30 on Thursday, 26 March 2015, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the entrance of 'Aaboud village, northwest of the city. At approximately 20:30, Israeli forces established another checkpoint at the entrance of Termes'ayah village, north of the city. Both checkpoints were removed and no arrests were reported.
At approximately 10:00 on Saturday, 28 March 2015, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the entrance of Ras Karkar village, northwest of Ramallah. At approximately 13:30, another checkpoint was established at the entrance of Qebya village, west of the city. Later, both checkpoints were removed and no arrests were reported.
Jericho: Israeli forces have continued to impose severe restrictions on the movement of Palestinian civilians. At approximately 10:30 on Friday, 27 March 2015, Israeli forces established a checkpoint near the entrance of Fasayel village, north of the city. Later, the checkpoint was removed, and no arrests were reported.
At approximately 20:00 on Saturday, 28 March 2015, another checkpoint was established at the southern entrance of Jericho. Later, the checkpoint was removed and no arrests were reported.
Qalqilya: Israeli forces have continued to impose severe restrictions on the movement of Palestinian civilians. At approximately 18:00 on Thursday, 26 March 2015, Israeli forces established a checkpoint between the villages of 'Ezbet Salman and Ras 'Atiyah, east of Qalqilya. At approximately 19:20, another checkpoint was established between the villages of Amatin and al-Fondoq, northeast of the city. Both checkpoints were later removed, and no arrests were reported.
At approximately 19:30 on Saturday, 28 March 2015, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the eastern entrance of Qalqilya. At approximately 21:25, the checkpoint was removed and no arrests were reported.
At approximately 01:10 on Saturday, 29 March 2015, Israeli forces established another checkpoint between the villages of 'Azoun and Kufor Tholth, east of Qalqilya. At approximately 03:00, the checkpoint was removed, and no arrests were reported.
Tulkarm: Israeli forces have continued to impose severe restrictions on the movement of Palestinian civilians. At approximately 12:30 on Thursday, 26 March 2015, Israeli forces stationed at ‘Annab military checkpoint which is established on the road between Tulkarm and Nablus, east of the city, tightened their restrictions against civilians and obstructed their movement. Later that day, the tightening ended and no arrests were reported. The tightening renewed at approximately 12:30 on Saturday, 28 March 2015, at approximately 10:30 on Sunday, 29 March 2015, at approximately 07:00 on Monday, 30 March 2015, at approximately 22:30 on Monday, 30 March 2015, and at approximately 14:00 on Wednesday, 01 April 2015.
At approximately 20:00 on the same day, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the entrance of Shofah village, east of Tulkarm. The checkpoint was later removed, and no arrests were removed.
At approximately 23:30 on Friday, 27 March 2015, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the entrance of 'Ezbet Shofah village, east of Tulkarm. The checkpoint was later removed, and no arrests were removed.
Salfit: Israeli forces have continued to impose severe restrictions on the movement of Palestinian civilians. At approximately 23:30 on Monday, 30 March 2015, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the entrance of Deir Ballut village, west of Salfit. Later, the two checkpoints were removed, and no arrests were reported.
At approximately 15:00 on Tuesday, 31 March 2015, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the western entrance of Kafr al-Deek, west of Salfit. Around the same time, another checkpoint was established at the entrance of Deir Ballut village, west of Salfit. Both checkpoints were later removed, and no arrests were reported.
Arrests and Maltreatment at Military Checkpoints
At approximately 18:00 on Thursday, 26 March 2015, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the eastern entrance of Qalqilya. They arrested Amir 'Ali Soliman Abu Shehab (25) from Qalqilya and withdrew later taking the aforementioned to an unknown destination.
At approximately 18:00 on Friday, 27 March 2015, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the entrance of 'Azoun village, east of Qalqilya. They arrested Khaled Isma'il Saleh Sweidan (18) from the aforementioned village and withdrew later taking him to an unknown destination.
At approximately 01:30 on Sunday, 29 March 2015, Israeli forces stationed at Movedetan checkpoint established on the main road between Jenin and the northern villages of Tulkarm near the entrance of "Mavi Dutan" settlement established on Palestinian lands, southwest of Jenin tightened their arbitrary restrictions against Palestinian civilians and obstructed their movement. When Saber Khaled Saber Masarwah (26) from Jenin, was passing through the checkpoint, he was stopped and questioned on the spot. Israeli soldiers then arrested the aforementioned civilian and took him to an unknown destination.
At approximately 05:00 the same day, Israeli forces arrested four workers from Hosan village, west of Bethlehem, when they were trying to go to their work in Occupied Jerusalem on the pretext of not obtaining permits. The workers were arrested when they were near "Tsour Hadasa" settlement adjacent to Foqin Valley village, west of Bethlehem. They were identified as Mahmoud 'Abdel 'Aziz Shoushah (42); Mohammed Ismai'l Hamamrah (35); Tariq Isma'il Hamarah (28); and Ahmed Najeh al-'Ezzah (19).
At approximately 10:00 on Monday, 30 March 2015, Israeli forces stationed at the entrance of "Gosh 'Etzion" settlement, south of Bethlehem, arrested Qosay Ra'ed Abu Hashem (15) from Beit Ummar village, north of Hebron. They arrested the aforementioned child after heading for an interview with the Israeli intelligence. He was taken to an unknown destination.
At approximately 14:00 on the same Monday, Israeli forces stationed at the checkpoint of Jab'ah village, west of Bethlehem, arrested Fadi Hani 'Aadi (23) and his brother Mohammed (22) while passing by the area. They were taken to an unknown destination.
At approximately 19:00 on Tuesday, 31 March 2015, Israeli forces arrested Ahmed Sarhan Sabatin (16) while passing through a checkpoint established by the Israeli soldiers in al-Mtaynah area in Housan village, west of Bethlehem. He was then taken to an unknown destination.
Israeli forces arrest two traders from Rafah at Beit Hanoun " Erez" Crossing in Northern Gaza Strip
At approximately 11:00 on Monday, 30 March 2015, Israeli forces arrested two traders while trying to travel through Beit Hanoun "Erez" Crossing in the northern Gaza Strip. The detained persons were identified as Sa'id 'Ayesh 'Abed Abu Tohlah (55) and his brother 'Aadel (39).
According to information obtained by PCHR, the two brothers went to Beit Hanoun Crossing to travel to Ramallah in the West Bank. When they arrived at the crossing, Israeli forces arrested them. The son of Sa'id received a call later informing him that his father and uncle were arrested by the Israeli forces.
Efforts to create Jewish demographic majority in occupied East Jerusalem
House demolitions and demolition notices
At approximately 11:00 on Sunday, 29 March 2015, Kefah Da'na demolished parts of his house in Bab al-Selsela neighbourhood in the old city of East Jerusalem, to avoid paying fines to the Israeli municipality.
Da'na said to a PCHR fieldworker that 15 years ago, he built a kitchen and a bathroom in his house, but six years ago he received a demolition notice from the Israeli municipality on the pretext they were not licensed. Da'na added that he could delay the demolition of the kitchen and bathroom throughout the past years and paid over NIS 60,000 for that. Now he was obliged to demolish them by his own to avoid paying the municipality's fine. Da'na said that he obtained a permit to repair his house because of problems in the infrastructure and the walls dampness, but the so-called Antiquities Authority imposed many restrictions for the house reparations.
At approximately 09:00 on Tuesday, 31 March 2015, Israeli municipality bulldozers demolished a number of residential facilities and horse barns in Wad al-Jouz neighbourhood, east of the old city of East Jerusalem, without prior warning.
An eyewitness said that Israeli forces accompanied by the municipality bulldozers moved into Wad al-Jouz neighbourhood and closed all entrances leading to that neighbourhood, few meters away from al-Asbat Gate of al-Aqsa Mosque. He added that they demolished facilities belonging to the Amr family and horses facilities belonging to Toutah family without prior warning.
Dr Jamal Amr said to a PCHR fieldworker that Israeli forces surrounded his house and kept all his family members in a room to demolish parts of the house. They demolished a room, a balcony, astore and fences. He said that Israeli soldiers harshly pushed his two brothers: Nour al-Din and Sharif. He also pointed that the demolished facilities were built before the Israeli occupation of Jerusalem in 1967.
Hani Toutah said to the PCHR fieldworker that Israeli bulldozers demolished five rooms belonging to him; four of which were used as horse stables and the fifth one was used for his kids to play in. he added that the municipality started demolishing without prior warning or demolition notice although the room were licensed by the municipality 25 years ago.
In the same context, at approximately 12:00, Israeli bulldozers demolished foundations of 3 houses belonging to al-Abbasi family in al-Mukaber Mount neighbourhood under the pretext they were not licensed. Sa'id al-Abbasi said to PCHR's fieldworker that his family started laying the foundation of the house four months ago because two of his sons and his brother (about 20 persons) moved in that place. He explained that the family learnt about the demolition order that was pinned on the foundations three days earlier. The family tried to defer the order, but bulldozers demolished the foundations before any legal measure was taken.
Shooting incidents
At approximately 16:00 on Monday, 30 March 2015, dozens of Palestinians organized a protest on the Land Day in the old city of East Jerusalem. They headed from al-Bab Amoud area to Sultan Suleiman Street then Saladin Street. They chanted slogans against Israeli occupation and settlement activities. In the meanwhile, Israeli soldiers chased the protestors and fired sound bombs and tear gas canisters at them. As a result, journalist Marwa Ebeid (24) sustained sound bomb shrapnel wound to the leg. Israeli forces also arrested Noha al-Qotob, Mohammed Jaber (23) and Fathi Nasser (21).
Incursions and arrests
At approximately 05:00 on Thursday, 26 March 2015, Israeli forces moved into a number of neighbourhoods in the old city of East Jerusalem. They raided a number of houses from which they arrested three civilians, including two children: Saleh Sandouqa (17), Khaled Malhas (16) and Mohammed Bouja (19).
At approximately 08:00 on the same day, Israeli forces raided a house belonging to Ali Sharabati in Wad al-Jouz neighbourhood, east of the old city in East Jerusalem. They searched the house and arrested his son Ahmed (14).
At approximately 05:00 on Sunday, 29 March 2015, Israeli forces raided and searched a house belonging to Khalil al-Abassi in Ein al-Louza neighbourhood in Silwan village, south of East Jerusalem. They photographed the house and arrested his sons Abdul Rahim (30) and Ayed (25).
At approximately 04:00, on Monday, 30 March 2015, Israeli forces moved into Ras al-Amoud neighbourhood, east of East Jerusalem. They raided a number of houses from which they arrested four civilians: Jihad Taha (30), Amr Abu Arafa (28), Mohammed Rokon (22) and Jihad Aweida (40).
At approximately 04:30, Israeli forces moved into Shu'fat neighbourhood, north of East Jerusalem. They raided a number of houses from which they arrested Abdul Nasser Essa (15) and Omer Mazen Abu Asab (15).
At approximately 05:00, Israeli forces moved into a number of neighbourhoods in the old city of East Jerusalem. They raided a number of houses from which they arrested three civilians: Ehab al-Jallad (39); Mohammed Mona (20); and Mohammed Bseiso (20).
At approximately 12:00, Israeli forces arrested two Palestinians while being in al-Wad neighbourhood in the old city of East Jerusalem: Naji Akram Zgheer (20) and Sofyan Lo'ai Jadallah (19).
At approximately 13:00, Israeli forces arrested two Palestinian women who were near al-Ghawanma Gate of al-Aqsa Mosque in East Jerusalem: Ayda Ahmed al-Seidawi (58) and Alaa al-Joulani (46).
At approximately 13:30, Israeli forces arrested Mahdi al-Abassi (26) while going to a court hearing for his cousins (Abdul Rahim and Ayed) in the district court in East Jerusalem.
At approximately 16:00, Israeli forces arrested Tareq Mohammed al-Shweiki (14) when he was in al-Aqsa Mosque yards in East Jerusalem. He was taken to al-Qashala police station.
At approximately 19:00, Israeli forces harshly beat and arrested Ahmed Mansour al-Resheq (13) when he was present around his family's house in Ein al-Louza neighbourhood in Silwan village, south of the old city in East Jerusalem. They took him to Saladin police station to be questioned.
At approximately 11:00 on Tuesday, 31 March 2015, Israeli forces moved into some neighbourhoods in the old city of East Jerusalem. They raided and searched a number of houses from which they arrested six civilians, including two children: Hejazi Abu Sbaih (21); Yasser Ahmed Najib (23); Wesam Nasser Seder (22); Adli Nasser al-Din (19); Feras Yusif Dandis (13); and Mohammed Sa'id Iskafi (15).
At approximately 21:00, on the same day, Israeli forces arrested three Palestinian youngsters from al-Mukaber Mount neighbourhood while crossing via al-Nafaq checkpoint, south of East Jerusalem. The arrested were: Murad Tawfiq Abu Sarhan (23); Aziz Mahmoud Abu Sarhan (24); and Ali Hassan Ebeidiya (24).
At approximately 22:00, Israeli forces raided and searched a house belonging to Ahmed Abu Shousha in Wad al-Jouz neighbourhood, east of the old city of East Jerusalem. They arrested his son Yusef and took him to an unknown destination.
At approximately 23:00, Israeli forces moved into some neighbourhoods in the old city of East Jerusalem. They raided and searched a number of houses from which they arrested three civilians: Omer Mo'taz Wazwaz (21); Hazem Nour al-Din al-Dajani (19); and Malek Ahmed Shweiki (19).
At approximately 01:00 on Wednesday, 01 April 2015, Israeli forces raided a house belonging to paramedic Fo'ad Ebeid (23) in al-Eisawiya village, north of East Jerusalem. They arrested the aforementioned person and took him to an unknown destination.
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.
At approximately 10:30 on Thursday, 26 March 2015, Israeli forces moved into Deir Mousa area, west of Sorif village, west of Hebron. They stationed in the vicinity of the houses, and the civil officer who accompanied the Israeli soldiers distributed three notices to stop construction work in three houses on the pretext of the lack of construction licences.
The notices were about the following:
1. A 150-square-meter under-construction house belonging to Zaher Soliman Younis Safi (30);
2. A 150-square-meter inhabited house belonging to Maha 'Issa Mousa Ghneimat (53); and
3. A 150-square-meter under-finishing house belonging to Mousa Soliman Mousa Ghneimat (47)
On Thursday, 26 March 2015, Israeli settlers from "Asfar" settlement and "Bani Kadim" settlement outpost established on Palestinian lands confiscated from the eastern side of al-Shyoukh and Sa'ir villages, northeast of Hebron, uprooted and destroyed 1,200 olive and almond seedlings, which were planted only one month ago. The seedlings were donated by the Palestinian Ministry of Agriculture and YMCA. The attacked land belong to the al-'Ayaydah family and is located in al-Waslah area, east of al-Shyoukh village.
At approximately 10:00 on Sunday, 29 March 2015, an Israeli settler deliberately ran down a herd of sheep belonging to Sa'ed 'Abdel Fattah Rashid Bashir (38) from Jeensafout village, east of Qalqilya, while passing the main road (Qana Valley Street). As a result, two sheep had fractures while 27 others were hurt. Israeli forces also handcuffed the aforementioned civilian following the attack and took him to "Karni Shomron " police station and held him for hours before releasing him.
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.
Full, detailed document
A total of 1,268 Israelis stormed occupied East Jerusalem's Al Aqsa Mosque Compound during March alone, according to a Palestinian non-governmental organization.
According to WAFA, Al Aqsa Institute for Waqf and Heritage reported that a total of 1,268 stormed the mosque’s compound during March, including 1,114 settlers, 115 intelligence officers, 39 soldiers. The number of settlers ranged between a minimum of 23 and a maximum of 140 every day.
Israelis stormed the mosque 23 times during March from Sunday through Thursday.
Those raiding the compound attempted to ascend the Dome of the Rock’s courtyard, performed Talmudic rituals and prayers across the compound and danced in a provocative manner upon their exit, provoking Palestinian Muslim worshippers.
According to the Institute, hundreds of Palestinians maintained their daily presence inside the compound in an attempt to defend it from any Israeli violations and desecration.
According to the Institute’s statistics, 40 Muslim worshippers, including 27 women and five children, were detained by Israeli police. Following detention and interrogation, 30 Muslim worshippers, mostly women, were banned entry into the compound for a period ranging between 15 days to 90 days.
In fact, 10 women were banned entry for 15 days, four others for 60 days and another one for 90 days. They were banned from entry following an Israeli military order or court ruling.
The Institute noted that each banned worshipper had been forced to sign papers or fined, detained while inside the compound or upon exit, interrogated and issued a military order banning them from entry or summoning them to appear before a military court. The upshot of all of this was receiving a ban court ruling.
According to WAFA, Al Aqsa Institute for Waqf and Heritage reported that a total of 1,268 stormed the mosque’s compound during March, including 1,114 settlers, 115 intelligence officers, 39 soldiers. The number of settlers ranged between a minimum of 23 and a maximum of 140 every day.
Israelis stormed the mosque 23 times during March from Sunday through Thursday.
Those raiding the compound attempted to ascend the Dome of the Rock’s courtyard, performed Talmudic rituals and prayers across the compound and danced in a provocative manner upon their exit, provoking Palestinian Muslim worshippers.
According to the Institute, hundreds of Palestinians maintained their daily presence inside the compound in an attempt to defend it from any Israeli violations and desecration.
According to the Institute’s statistics, 40 Muslim worshippers, including 27 women and five children, were detained by Israeli police. Following detention and interrogation, 30 Muslim worshippers, mostly women, were banned entry into the compound for a period ranging between 15 days to 90 days.
In fact, 10 women were banned entry for 15 days, four others for 60 days and another one for 90 days. They were banned from entry following an Israeli military order or court ruling.
The Institute noted that each banned worshipper had been forced to sign papers or fined, detained while inside the compound or upon exit, interrogated and issued a military order banning them from entry or summoning them to appear before a military court. The upshot of all of this was receiving a ban court ruling.
2 apr 2015
The Ahrar Center for Detainees Studies and Human Rights has reported that Israeli soldiers killed two Palestinians in March, while a third died of earlier wounds, and that the soldiers kidnapped 525 Palestinians, including 42 women and 78 children.
Ahrar said that Gaza fisher Tawfiq Abu Ryala, 34, was shot and seriously injured while fishing in Gaza waters, on March 7, and died from his wounds in a local hospital, a few hours after his injury.
Resident ‘Omar Sobeh, 45, from the al-Far’a refugee camp in the northern West Bank city of Nablus, died, on March 11, of serious wounds suffered in 2008.
Resident ‘Ali Mahmoud Safi, 20, from the al-Jalazoun refugee camp in Ramallah, died on March 25 of wounds suffered a week earlier.
Ahrar said that the soldiers kidnapped 525 Palestinians in different parts of the West Bank, Jerusalem, and the Gaza Strip, including 42 women, mainly kidnapped in occupied East Jerusalem; most of the kidnapped women have been released.
In addition, Ahrar added that the soldiers kidnapped 78 children, mainly in Jerusalem and in Hebron, and interrogated them for several hours without legal representation, or the presence of a family member, and release many of them.
Soldiers also kidnapped, and detained, ten Palestinian journalists, in addition to five lawyers.
According to Ahrar data, Jerusalem witnessed 185 arrests, followed by Hebron with 105 arrests and Ramallah with 96 arrests, Nablus 35, Jenin 30, Bethlehem, 21, Qalqilia, 9, and Salfit, 3 Palestinians.
In the besieged Gaza Strip, soldiers kidnapped 27 Palestinians, many of them after crossing the border fence, searching for work, three merchants on the Eretz Terminal, and six fishers in Gaza waters.
Head of the Ahrar Center Fuad al-Khuffash said there are alarming levels in the abduction of children, especially in occupied Jerusalem, and that the detained children face harsh treatment in addition to being denied basic rights.
He added that Israel’s assaults and violations, including the repeated targeting of Gaza fishers, are serious Israeli escalations to the ceasefire deal of last summer, and every previous ceasefire agreement.
The official said Israel is holding captive around 5600 Palestinians in various prisons, detention camps and interrogation facilities, and that the army carried out more than 70 assaults against the detainees since the beginning of this year.
Ahrar said that Gaza fisher Tawfiq Abu Ryala, 34, was shot and seriously injured while fishing in Gaza waters, on March 7, and died from his wounds in a local hospital, a few hours after his injury.
Resident ‘Omar Sobeh, 45, from the al-Far’a refugee camp in the northern West Bank city of Nablus, died, on March 11, of serious wounds suffered in 2008.
Resident ‘Ali Mahmoud Safi, 20, from the al-Jalazoun refugee camp in Ramallah, died on March 25 of wounds suffered a week earlier.
Ahrar said that the soldiers kidnapped 525 Palestinians in different parts of the West Bank, Jerusalem, and the Gaza Strip, including 42 women, mainly kidnapped in occupied East Jerusalem; most of the kidnapped women have been released.
In addition, Ahrar added that the soldiers kidnapped 78 children, mainly in Jerusalem and in Hebron, and interrogated them for several hours without legal representation, or the presence of a family member, and release many of them.
Soldiers also kidnapped, and detained, ten Palestinian journalists, in addition to five lawyers.
According to Ahrar data, Jerusalem witnessed 185 arrests, followed by Hebron with 105 arrests and Ramallah with 96 arrests, Nablus 35, Jenin 30, Bethlehem, 21, Qalqilia, 9, and Salfit, 3 Palestinians.
In the besieged Gaza Strip, soldiers kidnapped 27 Palestinians, many of them after crossing the border fence, searching for work, three merchants on the Eretz Terminal, and six fishers in Gaza waters.
Head of the Ahrar Center Fuad al-Khuffash said there are alarming levels in the abduction of children, especially in occupied Jerusalem, and that the detained children face harsh treatment in addition to being denied basic rights.
He added that Israel’s assaults and violations, including the repeated targeting of Gaza fishers, are serious Israeli escalations to the ceasefire deal of last summer, and every previous ceasefire agreement.
The official said Israel is holding captive around 5600 Palestinians in various prisons, detention camps and interrogation facilities, and that the army carried out more than 70 assaults against the detainees since the beginning of this year.
Israeli settlers have uprooted last month approximately 1350 olive trees in the southern West Bank city of al-Khalil, a Palestinian official report revealed.
The Palestinian Ministry of Information has issued a new report stating that Israeli settlers’ attacks against Palestinian and their properties in al-Khalil have sharply intensified.
The report pointed out that 90 Palestinians were also arrested during March in al-Khalil.
It also documented dozens of Israeli night raids into Palestinian homes under the pretext of summoning minors for investigation, most of the reported summonses were mainly delivered in Aroub and Fawar refugee camps.
During March, hundreds of local residents suffered breathing problems after inhaling tear gas fired by Israeli soldiers, while seven people suffered different injuries and bruises during setters’ attacks.
Israeli Foreign Minister Avigdor Lieberman had stormed last month the Ibrahimi Mosque under heavy military protection, the report pointed out.
Israeli authorities have also issued during the reported period 13 demolition orders against local homes and buildings under construction.
The Palestinian Ministry of Information has issued a new report stating that Israeli settlers’ attacks against Palestinian and their properties in al-Khalil have sharply intensified.
The report pointed out that 90 Palestinians were also arrested during March in al-Khalil.
It also documented dozens of Israeli night raids into Palestinian homes under the pretext of summoning minors for investigation, most of the reported summonses were mainly delivered in Aroub and Fawar refugee camps.
During March, hundreds of local residents suffered breathing problems after inhaling tear gas fired by Israeli soldiers, while seven people suffered different injuries and bruises during setters’ attacks.
Israeli Foreign Minister Avigdor Lieberman had stormed last month the Ibrahimi Mosque under heavy military protection, the report pointed out.
Israeli authorities have also issued during the reported period 13 demolition orders against local homes and buildings under construction.
30 mar 2015
The annual mission report, written by heads of the diplomatic missions of EU member states in the Palestinian Authority, is strongly worded and very critical of Israel’s policies in and around Jerusalem.
The EU report on Jerusalem warns that the city has reached a dangerous boiling point of “polarisation and violence” not seen since the end of the second intifada in 2005.
The report describes the emergence of a “vicious cycle of violence …increasingly threatening the viability of the two-state solution”, which it says has been stoked by the continuation of “systematic” settlement building by Israel in “sensitive areas” of Jerusalem.
In addition, the report blames tension over the status of the Haram al-Sharif/Temple Mount complex as well as heavy-handed policing and punitive measures – including evictions and home demolitions by Israeli forces – for the escalating confrontation.
The report list 40 recommendations suggested by the heads of diplomatic missions in Jerusalem and Ramallah that recommend several steps which include preserving the viability of Jerusalem as the capital of two states, strengthening the religious and cultural identity of Jerusalem, ending East Jerusalem’s socioeconomic isolation, and strengthening the role of the EU.
The 2014 report suggests a series of potential punitive measures targeting extremist settlers and settlement products. Among the recommendations in the report are:
Potential new restrictions against “known violent settlers and those calling for acts of violence as regards immigration regulations in EU member states”.
Further coordinated steps to ensure consumers in the EU are able to exercise their right to informed choice in respect of settlement products in line with existing EU rules.
New efforts to raise awareness among European businesses about the risks of working with settlements, and the advancement of voluntary guidelines for tourism operators to prevent support for settlement business.
Read the report here. [PDF]
The European Coordination of Committees and Associations for Palestine (ECCP) - founded in 1986 is a network of 52 European committees, organizations, NGOs, unions and international solidarity movements from 22 European countries, dedicated to the struggle of the Palestinian people for freedom, justice and equality
The EU report on Jerusalem warns that the city has reached a dangerous boiling point of “polarisation and violence” not seen since the end of the second intifada in 2005.
The report describes the emergence of a “vicious cycle of violence …increasingly threatening the viability of the two-state solution”, which it says has been stoked by the continuation of “systematic” settlement building by Israel in “sensitive areas” of Jerusalem.
In addition, the report blames tension over the status of the Haram al-Sharif/Temple Mount complex as well as heavy-handed policing and punitive measures – including evictions and home demolitions by Israeli forces – for the escalating confrontation.
The report list 40 recommendations suggested by the heads of diplomatic missions in Jerusalem and Ramallah that recommend several steps which include preserving the viability of Jerusalem as the capital of two states, strengthening the religious and cultural identity of Jerusalem, ending East Jerusalem’s socioeconomic isolation, and strengthening the role of the EU.
The 2014 report suggests a series of potential punitive measures targeting extremist settlers and settlement products. Among the recommendations in the report are:
Potential new restrictions against “known violent settlers and those calling for acts of violence as regards immigration regulations in EU member states”.
Further coordinated steps to ensure consumers in the EU are able to exercise their right to informed choice in respect of settlement products in line with existing EU rules.
New efforts to raise awareness among European businesses about the risks of working with settlements, and the advancement of voluntary guidelines for tourism operators to prevent support for settlement business.
Read the report here. [PDF]
The European Coordination of Committees and Associations for Palestine (ECCP) - founded in 1986 is a network of 52 European committees, organizations, NGOs, unions and international solidarity movements from 22 European countries, dedicated to the struggle of the Palestinian people for freedom, justice and equality
An opinion poll has showed that 74 percent of the Palestinians support the approach pursued by the Hamas Movement in its resistance to the Israeli occupation.
The survey, which was conducted between 19 and 21 March by the Palestinian Center for Policy and Survey Research, also said that 56 percent of the participants in the poll supported the transfer of Hamas's resistance approach to the West Bank, while 68 percent were in favor of attacking Israel with rockets if it did not end its blockade on Gaza.
Among the people polled, 82 percent said they favored the Palestinian official efforts to join international organizations, while 68 percent were with the peaceful popular resistance approach.
Another 48 percent were with a renewed armed uprising against the occupation and 43 percent with the dissolution of the Palestinian Authority.
The survey, which was conducted between 19 and 21 March by the Palestinian Center for Policy and Survey Research, also said that 56 percent of the participants in the poll supported the transfer of Hamas's resistance approach to the West Bank, while 68 percent were in favor of attacking Israel with rockets if it did not end its blockade on Gaza.
Among the people polled, 82 percent said they favored the Palestinian official efforts to join international organizations, while 68 percent were with the peaceful popular resistance approach.
Another 48 percent were with a renewed armed uprising against the occupation and 43 percent with the dissolution of the Palestinian Authority.
A new report by the Israeli newspaper 'Jerusalem Post', based on unnamed sources within the Palestinian Authority, claims that the PA has agreed to pursue no formal charges against Israel in the International Criminal Court (ICC), in exchange for the release of tax money that had been illegally seized by Israeli authorities.
The report came after an announcement on Friday by the Israeli government that they would return to the Palestinian Authority some of the $500 million that they had illegally seized since January, but would not return the entire amount - instead subtracting from the total an arbitrary charge for electric, water and hospital bills.
This amount will also not include the tax monies from the month of March, just January and February. So far the Israeli government has not made any statement on whether or when it will release the March tax funds. These are taxes collected by Israel on goods imported into the Palestinian Territories - since the PA does not control any borders, Israel has complete control over all imports and exports. Despite the fact that these taxes are supposed to be directly transferred to the PA, Israeli authorities regularly withhold and seize these funds.
The Palestinian Authority (PA) decided in December to join the International Criminal Court. According to the Jerusalem Post, the PA had requested a prosecutor at the ICC to investigate Israeli war crimes in Gaza during the invasion last summer in which, according to UN OCHA, 2,220 Palestinians were killed, of whom 1,492 were civilians (551 children, 299 women).
But the Jerusalem Post report claims that their unnamed source has said that because the tax money was released, the investigation will go no further than that, and no charges will be issued against Israel for war crimes in Gaza or illegal settlement expansion in the West Bank.
Even if the Palestinian Authority did at some point move forward with formal charges against Israel, its unclear how much hold these charges would have, since Israel is not a signatory to the International Criminal Court, and does not recognize the court's authority.
The report came after an announcement on Friday by the Israeli government that they would return to the Palestinian Authority some of the $500 million that they had illegally seized since January, but would not return the entire amount - instead subtracting from the total an arbitrary charge for electric, water and hospital bills.
This amount will also not include the tax monies from the month of March, just January and February. So far the Israeli government has not made any statement on whether or when it will release the March tax funds. These are taxes collected by Israel on goods imported into the Palestinian Territories - since the PA does not control any borders, Israel has complete control over all imports and exports. Despite the fact that these taxes are supposed to be directly transferred to the PA, Israeli authorities regularly withhold and seize these funds.
The Palestinian Authority (PA) decided in December to join the International Criminal Court. According to the Jerusalem Post, the PA had requested a prosecutor at the ICC to investigate Israeli war crimes in Gaza during the invasion last summer in which, according to UN OCHA, 2,220 Palestinians were killed, of whom 1,492 were civilians (551 children, 299 women).
But the Jerusalem Post report claims that their unnamed source has said that because the tax money was released, the investigation will go no further than that, and no charges will be issued against Israel for war crimes in Gaza or illegal settlement expansion in the West Bank.
Even if the Palestinian Authority did at some point move forward with formal charges against Israel, its unclear how much hold these charges would have, since Israel is not a signatory to the International Criminal Court, and does not recognize the court's authority.
