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Israel/Palestine
| 1 May 2013
Territories Political uncertainty in West Bank after Palestinian PM Fayyad 13 April resigned following months of tensions with PA President Abbas. Khaled Meshal re-elected as Hamas political bureau chief 2 April. Visiting U.S. Sec State Kerry 8 April pledged to come up with proposal to revive peace process. Jordan and Palestine 31 March signed agreement on Holy Sites in Jerusalem, reaffirming Jordan’s responsibility for administering them; followed Qatar’s announcement of $1bn fund for East Jerusalem. U.S. and Russia 23 April negotiated compromise between Israel and Palestinians in UNESCO, allowing cultural agency to renew involvement in Jerusalem’s Old City in exchange for postponement of 5 resolutions critical of Israel. Israeli airstrike in Gaza 30 April killed Haitham Mishal, militant allegedly involved in 17 April rocket attack on Eilat. Continued clashes between Palestinian protesters and Israeli soldiers over Israeli treatment of detainees; 2 Palestinian prisoners ended hunger strike after Israel agreed to release them early. Israeli Defence Minister 22 April confirmed Israel’s Jan airstrike in Syria targeted weapons convoy allegedly headed to Lebanon. Israeli army 25 April shot down drone off coast of Haifa, suspects Hizbollah; Hizbollah denied. Israel and Turkey 22 April discussed compensation deal for families of 2010 flotilla victims (see Turkey). PM Netanyahu denounced nuclear talks with Iran as delaying tactic on part of Tehran.
Israel/Palestine
| 1 Apr 2013
New Israeli govt sworn in 18 March after 5-party coalition deal agreed 15 March; new coalition includes PM Netanyahu’s Likud-Beitenu right-wing alliance, new centrist Yesh Atid party, peace-process focused Hatnua party and national religious Jewish Home party; excludes ultra-Orthodox parties. U.S. President Obama 20-22 March visited Israel and WB, discussed nuclear Iran, Syria and Palestinian diplomatic process; WB youth activists protested visit, criticized “Zionist” keynote speech. Demonstrations in solidarity with Palestinian prisoners continued in WB into beginning March, leading to several clashes with Israeli forces; military raids, incursions, settler-related violence continued throughout month. Israel 25 March announced resumption of regular tax transfers suspended last year after Palestinians gained UN non-member observer status. Netanyahu 22 March apologized to Turkey for 2010 Gaza flotilla deaths (see Turkey).
Israel/Palestine
| 1 Mar 2013
Widespread demonstrations in OPT supporting hunger-striking Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails escalated significantly following 23 Feb death of prisoner in unclear circumstances; hundreds injured in clashes with security forces, 2 teenagers critically injured by live fire. PA minister 24 Feb said autopsy revealed prisoner’s death caused by torture; UN called for investigation into death. Rocket fired at southern Israel 26 Feb broke 3-month ceasefire, no injuries: Fatah-affiliated Al-Aqsa Martyrs Brigades claimed responsibility. Military raids, clashes, settler-related violence, demolitions in WB continued. Likud-Beiteinu faction 19 Feb made first official coalition agreement with centrist Hatnua party; Hatnua leader Tzipi Livni to be justice minister and negotiator in any future peace talks with Palestinians under PM Netanyahu’s supervision. Palestinian factions 9-10 Feb held reconciliation talks in Cairo, committed to consultations on formation of interim govt; Hamas 24 Feb asked to delay next reconciliation meeting. Central Elections Commission 11 Feb began long-delayed updating of voter rolls in Gaza Strip.
Israel/Palestine
| 1 Feb 2013
22 Jan Knesset elections saw Netanyahu-Lieberman’s right-wing Likud-Beiteinu alliance win with 31 seats; new centrist party Yesh Atid, led by TV personality Yair Lapid, came second with 19; coalition talks to form new govt underway. Israel 29 Jan became first nation ever to skip UNHRC periodic review of its human rights record. UNHRC report 31 Jan urged Israel to halt settlement construction unconditionally, remove all Israeli settlers in OPT. Fatah-Hamas reconciliation continued: Fatah 4 Jan staged first permitted mass rally in Gaza Strip since 2007; Fatah and Hamas leaders 9 Jan held first face-to-face meeting in over a year, pledged to implement stalled May 2011 reconciliation accord. PA FM Malki 23 Jan said Palestine would appeal to ICC if Israel settlement plans in occupied WB proceed. Month saw continued settler-related violence and Israeli military raids, arrests, clashes and shootings in WB. EU, UN 30 Jan expressed concern about Israel’s use of lethal force against Palestinians following rise in fatal shootings with several killed in Jan in WB and Gaza Strip. Several incidents of Israeli naval forces firing at Palestinian fishing boats within new 6 nautical mile limit. Surge in Israeli demolitions, including over 100 Palestinian-owned structures in Area C, displacing around 180. PA budget crisis continued: partially paid, late WB public sector salaries prompted more strikes, sit-ins. Israeli airstrike 30 Jan in Syria (see Syria). Israel 2 Jan completed main segment of border fence with Egypt.
Israel/Palestine
| 30 Dec 2012
Several countries including EU states protested Israel’s 30 Nov announcement of intention to increase settlements in occupied territories; UNGA resolution 18 Dec condemned settlement activity. Khaled Meshal, Hamas leader-in-exile, 6 Dec entered Gaza for first time for Hamas celebrations of anniversary of movement and first intifada. Thousands, including Fatah officials, 13 Dec participated in Hamas anniversary rally in Nablus, first such rally in WB since 2007; rallies also held in several WB cities. Raids, arrests, clashes in occupied territories continued: Israeli soldier 12 Dec shot dead Hebron teenager sparking clashes 12-13 Dec between residents and Israeli soldiers; Israeli soldiers 11 Dec raided offices of 3 civil society organisations in Ramallah; 2 Israelis 24 Nov assaulted Palestinian teenager in East Jerusalem. Several arrests of Palestinian fishermen in waters off Gaza by Israeli naval forces; Israel claimed men breached new 6-nautical-mile limit. Israel withheld PA tax revenues in reaction to Nov PA UN bid, said would use to offset PA debts; West Bank PA employee strikes over salary payments resumed. PA President Abbas 27 Dec threatened to disband PA if Israel doesn’t make moves to renew peace talks following its 22 Jan elections.
Israel/Palestine
| 1 Dec 2012
Israel-Hamas cross-border violence early month escalated to outright conflict; Israel 14 Nov launched Operation Pillar of Defence with assassination of Hamas militant leader in Gaza Ahmed al-Jaabari, and airstrikes on Gaza. Hamas retaliated with frequent rocket fire from Gaza toward Israel, reaching near Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. 5 Israeli civilians, 1 soldier killed; total number of Palestinians killed, including militants, exceeded 150; 219 Israelis and 1,200 Palestinians injured, vast majority civilians; Gaza infrastructure significantly damaged. Egypt-negotiated, U.S.-backed ceasefire agreed 21 Nov. Conflict provoked several protests and clashes with Israeli army across West Bank; 2 protestors killed, dozens injured. Bus bombing 21 Nov in Tel Aviv injured 21. Following ceasefire several incidents reported of Israeli forces shooting at Palestinians in Gaza border area including 1 killed, over a dozen injured 23 Nov. In majority vote UNGA 29 Nov granted Palestine non-member observer status. Israel 30 Nov announced 3,000 new settlements in occupied WB, E Jerusalem; move widely interpreted as retaliation to UNGA vote; U.S. condemned move. Gestures toward rapprochement between Hamas and Fatah: Hamas 25 Nov announced release of Fatah-affiliated political prisoners, Fatah reciprocated; Hamas 26 Nov announced support for PA UNGA bid.
Israel/Palestine
| 1 Nov 2012
Emir of Qatar visited 23 Oct, breaking Hamas’s isolation; promised $400 mn aid, called for Hamas-Fatah unity. Long-delayed PA municipal elections held 20 Oct in WB in 93 of 353 municipalities; Hamas boycotted polls which saw low turnout. Fatah 21 Oct announced victory but failed to secure majorities in key cities including Ramallah. Several Palestinians killed in escalating exchanges between Israel and Gazan militants, including Hamas; Egypt 24 Oct mediated ceasefire, but violence resumed. Israeli PM Netanyahu 9 Oct called early elections following coalition’s failure to agree budget; elections set for Jan 2013. Govt 18 Oct approved expansion of Gilo settlement in occupied East Jerusalem, drawing international protests. Israel 20 Oct intercepted Gaza-bound ship carrying 30 activists, including 5 European MPs.
Israel/Palestine
| 1 Oct 2012
First half of Sept saw widespread demonstrations, strikes, rioting in West Bank triggered by rising prices; protesters called for resignation of PM Fayyad, PA President Abbas, end to Oslo Accords. PA 11 Sept revoked recent tax increases. Thousands 14 Sept protested in Palestinian territories against anti-Islam film; hundreds protested, clashed with Israeli security forces in Jerusalem. Abbas 27 Sept announced he will seek UNGA vote on Palestine non-state membership. Jihadi group Ansar Bayt al-Maqdis claimed responsibility for 21 Sept attack at Har Harif on Egyptian border that killed 3 militants and 1 Israeli soldier, said attack reaction to anti-Islam film, revenge for 26 Aug assassination of senior leader Ibrahim Aweida. Israeli PM Netanyahu 3 Sept asked U.S. President Obama to set “clear red line” for Tehran, 16 Sept claimed Iran only months away from nuclear bomb.
Israel/Palestine
| 1 Sep 2012
Month saw increased rhetoric over Iranian nuclear program: PM Netanyahu 1 Aug said time running out for peaceful resolution; outgoing Israeli Home Front Defence Minister Vilnai 15 Aug said Israel “prepared as never before”. Militants 5 Aug attempted to cross into Israel from Sinai after attacking Egyptian border-post (see Egypt). Defence Minister Barak 1 Aug ordered army to prepare for ultra-orthodox conscription following expiration of Tal Law allowing deferral of military service. 3 Jewish attacks mid-month left 8 Palestinians wounded in WB, Jerusalem. Palestinian FM al-Malki 4 Aug announced plans to seek Palestinian recognition at Sept UNGA meeting. In formal letter to EU High Rep Ashton released 22 Aug, FM Lieberman called for new elections to oust PA President Abbas. UN special rapporteur Falk 30 Aug condemned Israeli court’s rejection of army responsibility for U.S. activist Rachel Corrie’s death.
Israel/Palestine
| 1 Aug 2012
Suicide bomber 19 July targeted bus carrying Israeli tourists in Bulgaria, killing 6; PM Netanyahu accused Iran, Hizbollah of involvement. Kadima 17 July quit coalition govt over law on military conscription of ultra-orthodox Jews. Israel released from administrative detention Palestinian footballer al-Sarsak 10 July, Palestinian Legislative Council (PLC) Speaker Dweik 19 July. Israeli authorities mid-month ordered demolition of 8 Palestinian W-B villages in South Hebron Hills to create IDF training zone. Israeli officials 17 July upgraded college in W-B Ariel settlement to university. Egyptian President Mursi held talks 18 July with President Abbas, 19 July with Hamas leader Meshaal, 25 July with Hamas PM Haniyeh. Al Jazeera documentary aired early-month reported evidence of possible poisoning of former PA President Arafat; PA announced plans for post-mortem.
Israel/Palestine
| 1 Jul 2012
Palestinian militant, Israeli soldier killed 1 June during gunfight on Gaza border. Militants 18 June launched cross-border attack from Egypt into southern Israel, Israeli civilian, 3 militants killed; Israel retaliated with airstrikes against Gaza killing at least 10 Palestinians; Palestinian militant groups, including Hamas, launched rockets into Israel, several Israelis injured; 2nd Egypt-brokered truce holding. Hamas operative assassinated 28 June in Damascus. Israeli PM Netanyahu 6 June ordered 851 new West Bank settlement homes built including 300 in Beit El settlement as part of deal with settlers to evacuate 5 buildings on private Palestinian land. Palestinian President Abbas 8 June expressed willingness to accept “non-member state” status at UN. Israeli State Comptroller 13 June criticised PM Netanyahu over 2010 Mavi Marmara raid. Former Palestinian footballer al-Sarsak 19 June ended 90-day hunger strike in exchange for early release from Israeli administrative detention; Palestinian prisoner Hassan Safadi 21 June restarted hunger strike after Israel renewed administrative detention; rights groups claim violation of May prisoner agreement. UK-govt backed report found Israeli treatment of detained Palestinian children in breach of Geneva Convention, UN convention on child rights. Russian President Putin 25 June began visit to Israel, West Bank.
Israel/Palestine
| 1 Jun 2012
Israeli PM Netanyahu 8 May announced opposition Kadima party to join govt, pushing back elections to Nov 2013. Netanyahu 12 May replied to April letter from Abbas, called for return to negotiations without preconditions. Israeli Defence Minister Ehud Barak 30 May said Israel may consider “unilateral move” if negotiations with Palestinians fail. Some 1,600 Palestinian prisoners in Israel 14 May ended hunger strike following reported agreement to improve conditions, review administrative detention of 322 prisoners. EU FMs 14 May published report denouncing Israeli settlements, settler violence, house demolitions in W-B. Israel 31 May returned bodies of 91 dead militants to Palestinian authorities. Roughly 1,000 protested 23 May against African migrants in Tel Aviv, attacked Africans. Hamas, Fatah 28 May resumed talks to form unity govt; announced Central Election Commission to register Gaza voters, prepare elections. Turkish court 28 May indicted 4 former Israeli commanders, including former Chief of Staff Ashkenazi, over alleged involvement in 2010 Mavi Marmara raid.
Israel/Palestine
| 1 May 2012
Israel 23 April decided to legalise 3 West Bank outposts, if implemented first new de-jure West Bank settlements in 15 years. Palestinian chief negotiator Erekat 17 April delivered letter from PA President Abbas to Israeli PM Netanyahu detailing Palestinian demands for return to negotiations. Former Shin Bet chief Diskin 27 April said current govt not interested in peace with Palestinians, misleading public on Iran. Mideast Quartet 11 April expressed concern over Israeli settler violence, pressed both sides for confidence-building measures. 1,500 Palestinian prisoners in Israel 17 April began hunger strike to protest conditions of imprisonment, ‘administrative detention’ policy. Gaza PM Ismail Haniyeh 24 April reportedly won secret April elections for leadership of Gaza Hamas political bureau. Fatah, Hamas 2 April reached deal allowing fuel transfers through Israel into Gaza Strip. Egypt 22 April cancelled gas delivery contract to Israel (see Egypt).
Israel/Palestine
| 1 Apr 2012
Violence escalated in Gaza following 9 March killing of Popular Resistance Committees leader Zuhair al-Qaissi by Israel; militants, primarily from Islamic Jihad, fired roughly 200 rockets into Israel in response, most intercepted by Iron Dome missile defense; IDF responded with airstrikes, killing 24. Egypt-brokered ceasefire agreed on 13 March, significantly reduced rocket fire. Israel 7 March cautiously welcomed planned resumption of P5+1 nuclear talks with Iran, PM Netanyahu 9 March warned possible strike on Iranian nuclear facilities within months (see Iran). Former Defense Minister Mofaz 28 March elected Kadima head. Supreme Court 25 March rejected deal between govt, settlers to relocate Migron settlement, postponed eviction to late August. Hundreds of Beitar Jerusalem football fans 19 March assaulted Palestinian workers in Jerusalem shopping centre, 16 arrests. Israel 26 March cut-ties with UN HRC in protest at UN probe into West Bank settlements. 1 Palestinian killed, dozens arrested 30 March in W-B, Gaza, E. Jerusalem clashes marking Land Day.
Israel/Palestine
| 1 Mar 2012
Month saw rising tensions between Israel, Iran: U.S. presidential security adviser Donilon 18-20 Feb visited Israel reportedly to deter Israeli strike against Iranian nuclear facilities (see Iran); Israel accused Iran of “terrorist campaign” following 13 Feb attempted attack on Israeli diplomat in Georgia and bombing of Israeli embassy in India leaving 4 wounded, 14 Feb blasts in Thailand; Iran rejected accusations. Hamas, Fatah 6 Feb announced agreement to form single Palestinian govt under Abbas, hold general elections in coming months; Hamas leaders in Gaza opposed deal. UNSG Ban 1 Feb urged Israel, Palestinians to return to negotiations, 3 Feb said only talks will lead to independent Palestinian state; Abbas 12 Feb insisted on settlement freeze as pre-condition. Israel 21 Feb agreed to release Islamic Jihad activist Khader Adnan following 2-month hunger strike. 1 Palestinian killed 24 Feb during West Bank protest following Temple Mount clashes; IDF 26 Feb bombed targets in Gaza in response to rocket fire.
Israel/Palestine
| 1 Feb 2012
PA threatened strong diplomatic response if Israel failed to demonstrate serious commitment to talks by 26 Jan following lack of progress in Jan meetings; Palestinian president Abbas 28 Jan said Israel foiled talks, failed to present “clear vision” of borders, security; Israeli PM Netanyahu 29 Jan expressed hope for continuation of talks. EU-Israeli tension increased by 3 reports critical of Israeli policy on settlements, East Jerusalem; British Deputy PM Clegg 16 Jan called settlements “deliberate vandalism”. UNSG Ban 13 Jan said Israeli incursions into Lebanese airspace violate state sovereignty, discredit UNIFIL; 15 Jan said settlement building hinders two-state solution. PLC speaker Aziz Dweik arrested 19 Jan; PA 22 Jan demanded release of Palestinian legislators. Hamas 21 Jan announced leader Meshal to step down after 16 years. 2 Palestinians killed 18 Jan by IDF; 5 extremist settlers charged 7 Jan with organising 13 Dec attack on West Bank army base.
Israel/Palestine
| 2 Jan 2012
During series of meetings 18-22 Dec in Cairo on Palestinian reconciliation, Hamas leader Meshal and PA President Abbas announced plans for Hamas and Islamic Jihad to join PLO; for formation of unity govt 26-31 Jan; and for Palestinian legislative, presidential, PLO elections in 2012. Israeli PM Netanyahu 25 Dec said Israel will not negotiate with PA if Hamas joins Palestinian govt. Israel 18 Dec completed second and final phase of mid-Oct Gilad Shalit prisoner exchange deal, releasing remaining 550 of 1,027 Palestinian security prisoners. 3 days of extremist Jewish violence 12-14 Dec including attack on army base in West Bank and torching of mosques. EU members of UNSC 22 Dec condemned Israeli settlement building and growing settler violence; Israel accused them of interfering in its domestic affairs. Sporadic violence across Gaza border including 4 Palestinians killed 8-9 Dec after barrage of rockets fired into Israel, chief of al-Qaeda-linked Army of Islam killed 30 Dec.
Israel/Palestine
| 1 Dec 2011
PA President Abbas and Hamas politburo head Meshal met 24 Nov in Cairo for first time since 4 May reconciliation agreement, reportedly agreed to hold elections 4 May but failed to resolve differences over interim unity govt. In protest at Palestine’s 31 Oct admission to UNESCO Israel froze transfers of tax and customs revenues to PA for 4 weeks, pushing PA to brink of financial collapse according to PA PM Fayyad. Israeli govt 1 Nov announced it would accelerate construction of 2,000 housing units in contested areas of E Jerusalem and 2 West Bank settlements. UNSC Membership Committee 11 Nov report showed no majority on Palestinian full membership. Quartet representatives 14 Nov met separately with Israel and PLO counterparts; no progress. Israeli Defence Minister Barak 20 Nov warned Iran less than 1 year away from producing nuclear weapon (see Iran). Intermittent violence along Gaza border including 2 Palestinians killed 3 Nov by IDF following sniper attack; Israeli airstrike killed Islamic Jihad militant 5 Nov; Palestinian police officer killed 14 Nov in air strike following rocket attack. Rockets fired 28 Nov from southern Lebanon struck N Israel, first since 2009, IDF responded with artillery fire.
Israel/Palestine
| 1 Nov 2011
Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit, seized by Hamas in 2006, released 18 Oct in exchange for release of 1,207 Palestinians - 450 immediately, rest in 2 months. Flare-up in violence 27-31 Oct: barrage of rockets fired by Islamic Jihad group from Gaza killed 1 Israeli civilian in Ashkelon; dozen Palestinians killed in IDF airstrikes. 25 Egyptians in Israeli custody swapped 27 Oct for U.S.-Israeli citizen arrested in Egypt in June on suspicion of espionage. Quartet official 26 Oct said Israel, Palestinians agreed to offer peace proposals on issues of territory, security within 3 months. UNSG Ban 14 Oct criticised reported Israeli plans to build 2,600 housing units in E Jerusalem as “unacceptable”. Defence Minister Barak 12 Oct formally apologised to Egypt for Sept killing of 6 Egyptian soldiers by IDF. Turkish PM Erdoğan 5 Oct called Israel regional threat for assumed possession of nuclear weapons. Palestine 31 Oct granted full membership to UNESCO; U.S. immediately cut funding to organisation.
Israel/Palestine
| 1 Oct 2011
PA President Abbas 23 Sept submitted Palestinian application for full UN membership to UNSG Ban; Hamas rejected UN move as “begging” for statehood. Israeli PM Netanyahu said peace can be achieved only through direct talks. Sporadic clashes 23 Sept between Palestinian protesters and Israeli military in E Jerusalem and West Bank. Quartet urged return to peace talks with aim of deal by end-2012; Abbas 26 Sept repeated refusal to talk without Israeli settlement freeze. UNSC president 28 Sept referred Palestine’s application to special committee that deals with admission of new members. EU, U.S. 28 Sept condemned Israeli plans for construction of 1,100 new housing units in occupied E Jerusalem as counterproductive to negotiations on peace talks. UN report into May 2010 deadly raid on Gaza-bound protest flotilla published 2 Sept, found Israel used excessive force but blockade of Gaza legal (see Turkey). Rioters 9 Sept ransacked Israeli embassy in Egypt, forced evacuation of staff (see Egypt).
Israel/Palestine
| 1 Sep 2011
Militants 18 Aug killed 8 Israelis including 6 civilians in S Israel close to Egyptian border; 5 Egyptian police killed in IDF operation responding to attack, as Israeli officials claimed gunmen infiltrated from Gaza Strip via Egypt; 3 attackers identified as Egyptian. Cairo threatened to recall envoy to Tel Aviv; IDF expressed regret. IDF 18 Aug began series of airstrikes on Gaza in retaliation: at least 19 Palestinians killed including Popular Resistance Committees, Islamic Jihad leaders. Strikes and rocket launchings continued despite 23 Aug ceasefire agreement between Hamas, Israel. Israel 17 Aug refused to endorse U.S.-supported “package of understanding” with Turkey for May 2010 deadly raid on Gaza-bound protest flotilla, opting instead for continuation of UN inquiry. Govt approved more than 2,700 new settler homes in East Jerusalem, West Bank. Knesset 16 Aug broke recess to debate 4-week protest by tens of thousands over living costs; PM Netanyahu formed panel to recommend possible reforms. PA President Abbas 16 Aug confirmed plans to apply for full UN membership at UNSC in Sept. Leaders from Fatah, Hamas same day held reconciliation talks in Cairo, agreed to meet again early Sept.
Israel/Palestine
| 1 Aug 2011
Undeclared Gaza-Israel ceasefire since 18 April ended with sharp escalation in projectiles fired from Gaza late June-July, increased Israeli attacks on smuggling tunnels, Qassam Brigades targets. UN 6 July report on 15 May deadly Nakba day protests along Lebanese border criticised IDF excessive force and protesters’ provocative, violent behaviour. Vice PM Ya’alon 21 July said Turkish insistence on Israeli apology for last year’s commando raid on Gaza-bound flotilla makes reconciliation impossible (see Turkey); planned “Freedom Flotilla 2” failed to arrive in Gaza as several boats damaged, all but one prevented from sailing from Greece. PA President Abbas 27 July called for peaceful “popular resistance” throughout West Bank in support of bid for UN recognition of Palestinian state. PA 27 July reportedly decided Oct Palestinian municipal elections will be held only in West Bank; election commission reports Hamas hampering preparations in Gaza. PA paid West Bank state employees only half monthly salaries July, PM Fayyad said PA facing “worst financial crisis”. 2 weeks of protests in Israel over high living costs peaked 30 July with up to 150,000 demonstrating in 12 cities.
Israel/Palestine
| 1 Jul 2011
At least 10 killed 5 June in clashes between IDF and Palestinian-Syrian protesters along border with Israeli-held Golan Heights; Israel, U.S. accused Syrian govt of using protests as provocation to draw attention from its violent crackdown on anti-regime demonstrators. Israeli parliament 16 June sent letter to Turkish PM Erdoğan congratulating him on election victory, offered to “bury grudges of recent past”. Turkish Humanitarian Relief Foundation (IHH) 17 June announced Mavi Mamara – vessel upon which 9 Turks killed last year by Israeli forces – will not join Gaza flotilla expected to sail early July; Netanyahu 26 June warned Israel will not allow ships to breach naval blockade. Talks on formation of Palestinian unity govt postponed 19 June; talks reportedly stalled over issue of head of new transitional govt. PA 26 June formally voted to seek UN recognition of Palestinian state in Sept; Israeli FM Lieberman 17 June warned past agreements with Israel void if Palestinians press ahead with unilateral recognition plans. UN report 8 June said West Bank economy not flourishing, cited accelerating unemployment, lower real wages, deteriorating labour market conditions.
Israel/Palestine
| 1 Jun 2011
Some 15 killed, over 400 wounded 15 May by IDF gunfire as tens of thousands of pro-Palestinian protesters marked Nakba along Israeli borders with Gaza, Syria and Lebanon (See Syria and Lebanon). Fatah, Hamas 4 May signed Egypt-mediated reconciliation deal; agreed to form unity govt, hold presidential, legislative elections within 1 year. Israeli PM Netanyahu called unity pact “tremendous blow to peace”. PA President Abbas 17 May postponed municipal elections 3 months until Oct so vote can be held in both West Bank and Gaza. U.S. President Obama 19 May in major Middle East speech proposed Palestinian state based on pre-1967 borders with mutually agreed land-swaps as peace talks guideline; Netanyahu immediately rejected withdrawal to “indefensible” borders. Abbas 25 May said without progress will seek UN recognition of Palestinian statehood in Sept; Arab League 28 May backed UN move. Egypt 28 May opened Rafah crossing permanently for certain groups for first time in 4 years.
- Comment by Robert Malley (Crisis Group), “The Arab Spring Is Driving the Hamas-Fatah Unity Deal”, Washington Post, 4 May 2011.
- Comment by Nathan Thrall (Crisis Group), “Hurting Moderates, Helping Militants” , New York Times , 4 May 2011.
-
“You can’t make everyone happy” , Economist, 26 May 2011.
- For latest report, see Crisis Group Middle East Report N°104, Radical Islam in Gaza, 29 March 2011.
Israel/Palestine
| 1 May 2011
Fatah, Hamas 27 Apr reached tentative reconciliation agreement; under Egypt-brokered deal interim unity govt to be formed, with presidential, legislative elections within 1 year. Israel rejected any govt including Hamas, said PA could not have peace with both Israel and Hamas. Flare-up in cross-border violence 7-10 Apr after Israeli school bus hit by rocket from Gaza; 1 teenager later died from wounds. 140 rockets fired by Gazan militants, 19 Palestinians killed in Israeli retaliation before UN- and Egypt-mediated informal ceasefire agreed 10 Apr. Italian activist killed 14 Apr in Gaza after being kidnapped by Salafi-Jihadist group demanding release of a Salafi leader; 2 suspects killed, 1 injured in 19 Apr raid by Hamas security forces. Ahead of 12 Apr donor’s conference UN, IMF and World Bank said PA is ready to run independent state. 2 Palestinian youths arrested early Apr for 11 March murder of Israeli settler family near Nablus.
Israel/Palestine
| 1 Apr 2011
Surge in cross-border violence between Israel and Gaza. Israel killed 2 Hamas fighters 16 March in response to earlier attack by unidentified group; Hamas and others responded 19 March with barrage from Gaza, heaviest since 2009. Israeli response killed at least 11 in following days. Militant groups 26 March signalled readiness to stop rocket fire if Israel halted strikes: Israeli PM Netanyahu 27 March said Israel has no desire to escalate situation; exchange of fire continued. Bomb blast 23 March killed 1, wounded dozens in Jerusalem; first in city since 2008. Jewish family of 5 murdered 11 March in Itamar settlement near Nablus; Israeli govt reacted by authorising construction of 550 residential units in settlement. Israel 15 March intercepted ship reportedly carrying surface-to-sea missiles from Iran to be smuggled into Gaza from Egypt; Iran denied report. Hamas cracked down on pro-unity protests during month; in West Bank 15 March demonstrations attracted only a few thousand. Netanyahu 28 March criticised Palestinian efforts for national unity, said “can not have peace with both Israel and Hamas”.
Israel/Palestine
| 1 Mar 2011
PA 1 Feb set local elections for 9 June, 12 Feb declared Sept parliamentary and presidential elections; Hamas rejected calls, said national reunification must precede elections. PA’s cabinet dissolved 14 Feb; Salam Fayyad retained as PM. U.S. 18 Feb vetoed UNSC resolution condemning Israel’s settlement policy, all 14 other members backed measure; Obama administration said veto not support for further settlement construction. Saeb Erekat, PLO’s chief negotiator, 12 Feb resigned taking responsibility for Palestinian Papers leaked from his office. Israeli PM Netanyahu 12 Feb welcomed declaration by Egypt’s new military rulers that they would honour peace treaty; but 16 Feb said Israel had to “prepare for the worst” (see Egypt). Increased clashes along Gaza border late month, including 23 Feb rocket attack on southern city of Beersheba, first attack on city since 2009 Gaza war; Israeli PM Netanyahu 24 Feb warned Hamas not to test Israel’s resolve. Netanyahu 19 Feb accused Iran of exploiting Mideast unrest to increase its influence by sending 2 naval ships to Syria through Suez Canal (see Iran).
Israel/Palestine
| 1 Feb 2011
Al Jazeera 23 Jan published leaked internal Palestinian documents related to peace process. PM Netanyahu 31 Jan said he feared Egypt could end up with radical Islamic regime like Iran; agreed for Egyptian soldiers to move into Sinai peninsula for first time since 1979 peace treaty (see Egypt). In Gaza, war of attrition between Israel and Hamas heightened. Number of rockets fired into Israel increased slightly; many now aimed directly at military positions, densely populated areas. IDF increased military activity in Gaza, including 6 Jan shooting of 2 Palestinian men near border and 11 Jan missile strike that killed Islamic Jihad militant. Hamas 13 Jan ordered security forces to ensure other groups in Gaza observe truce on firing rockets at Israel; day earlier factions agreed to “national understanding” on not provoking strong reaction from Israel. Defence Minister Ehud Barak and 4 other Labor party MKs 17 Jan withdrew from party, established centrist faction “Independence”; new faction remains part of coalition, Barak retained defence portfolio.
Israel/Palestine
| 3 Jan 2011
U.S. formally abandoned efforts to persuade Israeli PM Netanyahu to extend partial settlement freeze as basis for peace talks; Sec State Clinton 11 Dec announced Washington instead would pursue proximity talks dealing with core issues towards a Framework Agreement. Fatah-PFLP joint statement 22 Dec said they would not hold talks with Israel, in any format, without complete halt to settlement activity and defined terms of reference. Brazil, Argentina, Ecuador and Bolivia recognised independent Palestinian state “on the 1967 lines”. Other Latin American countries expected to follow; Israel 7 Dec warned unilateral recognition only hurts peace process. Israeli Security Cabinet 8 Dec decided to ease ban on exports from Gaza but not to Israel. Surge in cross-border violence during month; dozens of mortars fired from Gaza, in response IDF launched series of air raids including 18 Dec strike that killed 6 Palestinians in Central Gaza. Hamas senior leader Mahmoud Al-Zahar 24 Dec said group committed to ceasefire if Israel abided by it, though smaller groups continue to launch attacks.
Israel/Palestine
| 1 Dec 2010
U.S. offered incentive package toIsrael in return for limited90-day construction moratorium in hope of reviving Mideast peace talks; details stillbeing discussed. Israeli govt 8 Nov announced plan to build nearly 1,300apartments in E Jerusalem; U.S.official said construction “counter-productive”. Israel17 Nov agreed to troop pullout from northern half of disputed border village inGolan Heightsfulfilling part of 2006 truce agreement. Israeli parliament 22 Nov approved lawrequiring two-thirds Knesset majority or national referendum for withdrawalfrom E Jerusalem or Golan Heights. Palestinian militant killed 3 Novin targeted Israeli airstrike in Gaza City.In response to rocket fire 19 Nov Israeli warplanes struck 4 targets in Gaza,injuring at least 4. Israel22 Nov began work on 140km border fence with Egypt to stop Islamic militants andAfrican migrants. UNRWA director in Gaza 11 Nov said “no materialchange” for people of Gazasince Israeleased blockade. Hamas and Fatah discussed reconciliation in Damascus 10 Nov but talks deadlocked onsecurity issues; sides agreed to meet again.
Israel/Palestine
| 1 Nov 2010
PA President Abbas, supported by Arab League, 9 Oct announced U.S. had 1 month to persuade Israel to halt settlement building or recently restarted direct peace talks would collapse. Israeli PM Netanyahu 11 Oct made offer to revive deadlocked talks, freeze settlement building if Palestinians recognise Israel as the nation-state of the Jewish people; Palestinians immediately rejected declaration. Settlers 27 Oct accused govt of imposing “silent freeze” by delaying approval of some 4,300 West Bank apartments. Israeli cabinet 10 Oct approved bill requiring new non-Jewish citizens to pledge loyalty oath to “Jewish” state; PM Netanyahu 19 Oct ordered bill to include all new citizens. 3 militants killed, 6 injured by airstrikes in West Bank responding to mortars fired toward Israel. 2 Hamas commanders, suspected of 31 Aug murder of 4 Israeli civilians, killed 8 Oct in IDF raid in West Bank town Hebron. Netanyahu 17 Oct announced renewal of negotiations through German mediator on release of captured IDF soldier Gilad Shalit; Hamas leaders argued renewed contact insignificant and unlikely to yield deal. Clashes 27 Oct between police and Arab Israeli protestors in town of Umm el-Fahm following march by Jewish extremists against Islamic Movement. Prominent Arab Israeli activist Amir Makhoul who admitted to spying for Hizbollah sentenced 27 Oct to 10 years.
Israel/Palestine
| 1 Oct 2010
12-month U.S.-mediated direct peace talks launched 2-3 Sept in Washington; sides agreed to meet every 2 weeks beginning 14-15 Sept in Egypt. Future of talks in balance after Israeli PM Netanyahu 26 Sept declined to extend 10-month moratorium on settlement construction despite international pressure, urged PA President Abbas to continue talks; Abbas 27 Sept delayed decision on continuation of talks until 4 Oct Arab League meeting. Leaders of Hamas and 12 other armed groups 2 Sept threatened new wave of attacks against Israel. Increased rocket and mortar fire from Gaza into Israel. 8 rockets, 1 mortar fired 15 Sept, highest daily total in over 1 year; at least 9 Palestinians killed in Israeli military responses. PA security forces arrested hundreds of Hamas-linked operatives in West Bank early Sept following 31 Aug Hamas killing of 4 Israeli civilians, 1 Sept wounding of 2 civilians. UNHRC 22 Sept accused Israel of violating international law in 31 May raid on Turkish-owned aid flotilla; Israel denounced accusations.
Israel/Palestine
| 1 Sep 2010
Israel PM Netanyahu and PA President Abbas agreed 20 Aug to restart direct peace talks beginning 2 Sept with 2 day peace summit in Washington, first direct negotiations in 20 months. Egyptian President Mubarak and Jordan’s King Abdullah also invited; however, Palestinian chief negotiator Erekat warned Palestinians would withdraw if settlement construction resumed after scheduled 26 Sept end to 10 month limited moratorium on building. Hamas’ military wing claimed responsibility for killing of 4 Israelis 31 Aug near Hebron, West Bank; U.S. condemned attack, warned “enemies of peace” would attempt to disrupt peace talks. Senior Israeli officer, at least 2 Lebanese soldiers, 1 journalist killed in 3 Aug border clash between IDF and Lebanon army; UNIFIL 25 Aug report reiterated 4 Aug conclusion that IDF soldiers were on Israeli side of UN-defined border. Israel 2 Aug announced decision to cooperate with UN investigation into 31 May deadly raid on Turkish-owned aid flotilla; Deputy PM Meridor 3 Aug said choice was made “primarily” to improve Israeli-Turkish relations. 2 IDF soldiers injured 17 Aug by mortars fired from Gaza; in response Israeli Air Force 18 Aug bombed suspected weapons manufacturing site and 3 smuggling tunnels.
Israel/Palestine
| 1 Aug 2010
PA president Abbas 29 July refused to move to direct negotiations until Israel agrees “in principle” to a framework for negotiations including “third party” taking on a security role; decision endorsed 29 July by Arab League. In largest attack since 2008/09 Operation Cast Lead in Gaza, Israel 30 July hit 5 targets in Gaza killing Hamas senior military commander Issa Batran, injuring 11; strike in response to 30 July rocket attack on Ashkelon. Israel 5 July published “blacklist” of goods not allowed into Gaza, mainly weapons and dual-use materials; UN Special Coordinator Serry welcomed measure as “important steps in the right direction”. Israeli military investigation into 30 May deadly assault on Gaza-bound aid flotilla concluded 12 July there were “no failures, but mistakes were made”; UNHRC 24 July appointed 3-member independent flotilla inquiry panel, report due Sept. New Israeli report submitted to UN 19 July on Operation Cast Lead said IDF is “taking steps” to reduce civilian casualties, will restrict use of white phosphorous in future. Israel 13 July razed inhabited Palestinian home in East Jerusalem, ending unofficial 8 month demolition freeze. IDF 22 July killed Palestinian man entering Jewish settlement in central West Bank; 1 Islamic Jihad militant killed, 7 people injured 21 July by IDF in Gaza border zone; 1 woman killed, 5 injured 13 July by IDF shell in Gaza.
Israel/Palestine
| 1 Jul 2010
Israel faced widespread international criticism following 31 May death of 9 Turkish activists during Israeli raid on aid shipment to Gaza; tenth died later. Turkish President Gul 17 June threatened to freeze relations, impose sanctions. Turkey 27 June barred Israeli military flight from Turkish airspace, future military flights to be considered on case-by-case basis. Israeli cabinet 14 June approved commission for inquiry into raid, including 2 foreign observers; UNSG Ban 18 June criticised panel as lacking international credibility. PM Netanyahu 20 June announced easing of Gaza blockade to let in “civilian goods” but requiring monitoring for dual-use materials; described by U.S. as “welcome step”. Palestinian gunmen 14 June killed 1 police officer, wounded 2 near Hebron, W Bank. Israeli Navy 7 June killed 6 members of al-Aqsa Martyrs Brigade off Gazan coast. 3 Hamas supporters killed in airstrike 1 June in Beit Lahiya, suspected of firing 2 rockets into Ashkelon area. 17 July W Bank elections postponed 19 June because of Fatah failure to agree on election lists. U.S. envoy Mitchell conducted 2 rounds of proximity talks during month with Israel, PLO.
- Comment by Crisis Group President Louise Arbour, “Good May Yet Come of This Tragedy for Gaza”, Independent, 2 June 2010.
- Comment by Robert Malley (Crisis Group), “Raid Shines Light on Failed Gaza Policy”, CNN, 2 June 2010.
- Comment by Hugh Pope (Crisis Group), “Gaza Flotilla: Turkey’s Stance is a Lesson to the West”, Guardian, 4 June 2010.
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“Israeli easing of blockade of Gaza draws praise of U.S.”, New York Times, 20 June 2010.
- For latest report, see Crisis Group Middle East Report N°95, Tipping Point? Palestinians and the Search for a New Strategy, 26 April 2010.
Israel/Palestine
| 1 Jun 2010
At least 9 people reported killed 31 May by Israeli soldiers boarding flotilla carrying activists, aid to Gaza; full details not yet clear. UNSC 1 June condemned “those acts which resulted in the loss of at least ten civilians” and called for “credible and transparent investigation”. Israeli PM Netanyahu cancelled Washington visit, gave full backing to action of Israeli troops. Israel said soldiers acted in self-defence, accused convoy of “premeditated” provocation, campaigners denied accusations. Palestinian Authority (PA) President Abbas condemned incident as “massacre”. Turkey withdrew ambassador, called Israeli actions “murder by a state”. Followed 9 May start of U.S.-mediated indirect talks between Israel, PA after 17-month halt in negotiations. Netanyahu 21 May spoke of possible goodwill gestures towards Palestinians. Announcement of talks followed by rocket attacks on southern Israel from Gaza 8 May, Israeli bombing of targets in response. At least 12 injured in 25 May airstrikes in Gaza in response to 24 May rocket and mortar attacks. IDF troops 21 May killed 2 Islamic Jihad militants near Kissufim crossing; 14 May shot dead Palestinian civilian near border fence; 2 suspected militants killed by IDF 1 June after entering Israel from Gaza. Palestinian youth killed by Israeli settler in West Bank 14 May.
Israel/Palestine
| 1 May 2010
U.S. Sec State Clinton 30 Apr announced U.S.-mediated indirect talks between Israel, Palestinian Authority (PA) would begin early May. Israeli PM Netanyahu reportedly agreed to partially meet U.S. requests in order to revive process; PA President Abbas also said ready for return to talks following U.S. envoy Mitchell’s 22-25 Apr visit to region. Rights groups criticised 13 Apr military order enabling deportation from West Bank of Palestinians without correct Israel-issued ID. Extremist settlers 21 Apr clashed with Israeli soldiers blocking them from entering Palestinian village near Nablus. 70 far-right Jewish activists held march through Silwan, East Jerusalem, 25 Apr. Hamas militant killed by Israeli troops in 26 Apr operation near Hebron. Israeli airstrikes hit Gaza Strip 2 Apr after rockets from Strip hit S Israel. Israeli troops 13 Apr killed at least 2 Islamic Jihad members near Gaza border fence; 16 Apr shot dead alleged militant, 28 Apr killed protester near fence. Hamas authorities ordered closure of smuggling tunnels to Egypt 13 Apr after Israel warned of threat from Gaza to kidnap citizens in Sinai.
Israel/Palestine
| 1 Apr 2010
Tension in U.S.-Israel relations emerged after plan to build 1600 homes in E Jerusalem announced during 9-10 March visit by U.S. VP Biden. Biden, Sec State Clinton, senior Obama aide strongly condemned announcement; Palestinian Authority said no longer willing to participate in U.S.-brokered indirect talks previously approved by PLO, Arab League. Talks between Israeli PM Netanyahu and President Obama in Washington 23-24 March failed to resolve disagreement. Middle East Quartet at 19 March Moscow meeting called for Israel to freeze settlement activity, negotiations to achieve two-state solution within two years. Palestinians clashed with Israeli forces in E Jerusalem and W Bank, including widespread riots in Jerusalem 16 March; 4 youths killed by Israeli soldiers in 2 incidents near Nablus 20, 21 March. Israel imposed closure on W Bank 12-17 March. Rockets fired into Israel from Gaza 18 March killed migrant worker; several Israeli airstrikes hit strip 19-24 March. 2 Israeli soldiers, at least 1 militant killed in 26 March clash between troops, gunmen inside Gaza border near Khan Yunis; Israeli tanks subsequently entered strip. Israeli troops fired on Palestinian Land Day demonstrators near southern Gaza border fence 30 March. EU foreign policy chief Ashton, UNSG Ban visited Gaza 18, 21 March; Ban called for Israel to end blockade of strip.
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Comment by Robert Malley and Peter Harling (Crisis Group), “Shifting Allegiances in the Middle East Mean Opportunities for President Obama”, Washington Post, 6 March 2010.
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Israel/Palestine
| 1 Mar 2010
Near-daily clashes between Palestinian protestors and IDF in Hebron after Israeli PM Netanyahu 21 Feb added Tomb of Patriarchs/Ibrahimi Mosque and Rachel’s Tomb near Bethlehem to national heritage list. Israeli police, Palestinian protestors clashed at Jerusalem Temple Mount/Noble Sanctuary 28 Feb. PA President Abbas early month sought clarification from U.S. about nature of “proximity” talks with Israel proposed by U.S. in Jan; 15 Feb said he would discuss proposal with Arab League amid reports he is seeking broader Arab backing for any return to talks. UK, Ireland, France Germany and Australia summoned respective Israeli ambassadors during month after Dubai police said 26 suspected Mossad agents allegedly involved in Jan assassination of Hamas commander travelled on fake European and Australian passports. Palestinian allegedly preparing to attack Gaza Karni border crossing killed by Israeli airstrike 11 Feb. Hundreds attended 5-year anniversary of weekly protests against W Bank barrier at Bilin 19 Feb; Israel 12 Feb began implementing 2-year old Supreme Court order to reroute part of barrier.
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Israel/Palestine
| 1 Feb 2010
Efforts to restart Israeli-Palestinian peace talks produced no breakthrough despite U.S. envoy Mitchell’s 21 Jan visit; Mitchell urged Palestinians to resume talks, presenting new plan, reportedly accepted by Israel, giving PA greater control of W Bank, facilitating entry of materials into Gaza. Fatah Central Committee, PLO Executive Committee mid-month backed PA President Abbas’s refusal to restart negotiations in absence of complete settlement freeze. Netanyahu 10 Jan told coalition members settlement construction would resume at end of current 10-month partial freeze; 24 Jan insisted several settlement blocs to remain part of Israel “for eternity”. 24 Jan expiration of Palestinian parliament’s term sparked renewed Fatah-Hamas tension. In 29 Jan written response to Goldstone report, Israel denied violating international law during Gaza war, ignored report’s call for independent investigation. UN 22 Jan said Israel had paid $10.5m for damage to UN property in Gaza war. 9 Palestinians killed 5-10 Jan in Israeli airstrikes on Gaza Strip amidst increased rocket fire into S Israel during month.
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Israel/Palestine
| 4 Jan 2010
Israeli settlers confronted security forces, building inspectors enforcing partial settlement freeze announced late Nov by Israeli PM Netanyahu; about 10,000 settlers, supporters rallied in Jerusalem 10 Dec, pledged to defy temporary building ban. 11 Dec arson attack on mosque in Yasuf, W Bank, by Jewish extremists. Israeli soldiers 26 Dec shot dead 3 Palestinian militants in Nablus suspected of killing Jewish settler 2 days earlier. Palestinians, U.S. officials 28 Dec criticised Israel’s plan to build 700 new housing units in E Jerusalem. EU FMs 8 Dec called for Jerusalem to be capital of both Israel and future Palestinian state, said would only recognise changes to 1967 borders agreed by both parties. PLO 16 Dec indefinitely extended terms of Palestinian Authority President Abbas and paralysed PA legislative council, despite Hamas criticism. 4 Palestinians reported killed by IDF in separate incidents at Gaza border 12, 26 Dec. Hundreds of Palestinian, foreign activists protested against Israeli Gaza blockade at Erez border crossing 31 Dec.
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Israel/Palestine
| 1 Dec 2009
Citing stalled U.S. peace initiative, Palestinian Authority President Abbas said early month he would not run for re-election; 20 Nov said elections scheduled for Jan 2010 would be postponed because Hamas refused to participate. Palestinian chief negotiator Erekat 15 Nov announced plan to unilaterally seek UNSC endorsement of Palestinian state, but backtracked after U.S., EU called move premature; Israeli PM Netanyahu said Israel would respond with own unilateral steps, called for talks. Palestinians rejected 10-month freeze on new settlement construction announced by Netanyahu 25 Nov; decision excludes E Jerusalem and 3,000 housing units already under construction or approved. U.S. envoy Mitchell said move “falls short” of complete freeze but could advance peace efforts. U.S. President Obama condemned 17 Nov Israeli approval of 900 new homes in E Jerusalem Gilo settlement. UNGA 5 Nov passed resolution drafted by Arab states endorsing Goldstone report accusing Israel, Hamas of war crimes and possible crimes against humanity in Dec-Jan Gaza war. Israel 20 Nov arrested 5 members of Palestinian security forces in W Bank. Israeli army killed 1 Palestinian at Gaza border 13 Nov; 13 injured, 1 reported killed in 18, 22, 27 Nov Israeli airstrikes on Gaza smuggling tunnels, alleged weapons factories following rockets fired into S Israel. Late month reports that Israel, Hamas nearing deal to trade captured Israeli soldier Shalit for some 1,000 Palestinian prisoners.
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Israel/Palestine
| 1 Nov 2009
UN Human Rights Council 16 Oct endorsed Sept Goldstone report accusing Israel, Hamas of war crimes and possible crimes against humanity in Dec-Jan Gaza war, passed resolution critical of Israel, without reference to Hamas. Israel 26 Oct said would consider reviewing its internal investigation into the war but would not bring soldiers, officers before an independent commission. Palestinian PM Abbas 7 Oct backed UNSC debate on report after facing Palestinian, Arab criticism for earlier pushing for postponement under Israeli, U.S. pressure. Late Sept clashes between Palestinians and Israeli police continued early month in E Jerusalem, Old City; 150-200 Palestinians holed up in mosque at Temple Mount/Al-Aqsa compound until 11 Oct; clashes resumed 25 Oct. In ongoing U.S. efforts to revive talks, Sec State Clinton 31 Oct met separately with Abbas, Israeli PM Netanyahu, said Israel was making “unprecedented” concessions on settlements; Palestinians continued to insist on full settlement freeze before talks resume. After Fatah 14 Oct signed Egyptian-sponsored reconciliation document, Abbas 23 Oct announced Palestinian elections in W Bank, Gaza to take place 24 Jan; Hamas said elections would not take place in Gaza in absence of Hamas-Fatah reconciliation, insisted on further discussions. Authorities 27 Oct demolished 5 Palestinian houses in E Jerusalem. Israeli airstrikes on Gaza City, S Gaza 22 Oct following rocket fired into S Israel.
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Israel/Palestine
| 1 Oct 2009
U.S. push to revive Israeli-Palestinian peace talks produced no breakthrough despite 22 Sept New York meeting between President Obama, Israeli PM Netanyahu, Palestinian PM Abbas; meeting came after leaders’ talks with U.S. envoy Mitchell during 13-18 Sept trip to region. Israeli govt announced plans to continue construction in E Jerusalem, W Bank including 455 new units 7 Sept despite U.S., Palestinian calls for settlement freeze; Netanyahu 14 Sept said construction to be “scaled down” but not frozen. 15 Sept Goldstone report to UN Human Rights Council on Dec-Jan Gaza offensive accused Israeli army of violations of international law including intentional targeting of civilians, called for full investigation; report also called for investigation of possible war crimes by Hamas. Fatah central committee 14 Sept announced acceptance of Egyptian reconciliation proposal, including delaying Palestinian elections planned for Jan; Hamas leader Meshal 28 Sept said Hamas ready to sign final draft with minor adjustments in Oct. Hamas, Israel 30 Sept agreed release of 20 Palestinian women detainees in exchange for video tape showing captured Israeli soldier Shalit is alive. 2 gunmen killed 19 Sept by Israeli shell in N Gaza following rocket fire into Israel; Israeli airstrike 25 Sept killed 3 militants east of Gaza city. Palestinian rioters 27 Sept clashed with security forces at Jerusalem’s Temple Mount/Haram al-Sharif.
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Israel/Palestine
| 1 Sep 2009
Fatah movement 4-11 Aug held first congress since 1989; Mahmoud Abbas endorsed as leader, several prominent leaders from younger generation elected to central committee including Barghouthi, Dahlan. Some 2,000 delegates travelled to Bethlehem for congress; around 300 blocked by Hamas from leaving Gaza. Heavy clashes in Rafah, southern Gaza, between Hamas forces and members of hardline Islamist group Jund Ansar Allah 14-15 Aug after group declared “Islamic emirate”; at least 22 killed including group leader, 6 Hamas police, civilians. Egypt opened Rafah border crossing to Gazans 3-8 Aug. Israeli aircraft bombed Rafah tunnels 10, 30 Aug following mortar fire into Israel at northern Gaza crossing 9, 29 Aug. Israeli soldiers 31 Aug shot dead Palestinian youth, one of group reportedly throwing firebombs at guard post near Beit El settlement. Israeli authorities 2 Aug evicted over 50 Palestinians from East Jerusalem houses, drawing U.S., EU, UN criticism. Israeli govt 18 Aug said would not issue new West Bank settlement housing construction tenders until 2010. Palestinian Authority PM Fayyad 25 Aug revealed plan for unilateral creation of “de facto state” infrastructure within 2 years. Attorney-General 30 Aug filed indictment against former PM Olmert on 3 counts of corruption.
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Comment by Hussein Agha and Robert Malley (Crisis Group), “The two-state solution doesn’t solve anything”, New York Times, 11 Aug. 2009.
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Israel/Palestine
| 1 Aug 2009
U.S.-Israeli tension over settlement-building continued as Israel approved new construction in East Jerusalem, refused to freeze settlement in West Bank. U.S. Mideast envoy Mitchell, Defense Sec Gates, other senior U.S. officials visited Israel for talks 26-29 July aimed at restarting stalled Israeli-Palestinian negotiations. Seventh round of Egypt-hosted Fatah-Hamas reconciliation talks, scheduled for 25 July, postponed 19 July to late Aug. Fatah chairman Kaddoumi 12 July accused PA president Abbas of role in 2004 death of Arafat. PA forces injured 2 in arrest of Hamas member near Ramallah 19 July. Settlers burnt olive trees, attacked Palestinian cars near Nablus after Israeli army removed outpost 20 July. Palestinian killed by Israeli troops after approaching Gaza border fence 19 July. Israel 29 July authorised first shipment of building materials into Gaza since Jan military offensive.
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For background, see Crisis Group Middle East Report N°89, Israel’s Religious Right and the Question of Settlements, 20 July 2009.
Israel/Palestine
| 1 Jul 2009
PM Netanyahu accepted prospect of Palestinian state for first time in 14 June speech, conditioning acceptance on demilitarisation, recognition of Israel as Jewish state; insisted on “natural growth” for West Bank settlements, Jerusalem to remain undivided Israeli capital, rejection of return for Palestinian refugees. U.S. hailed as “step forward”, but continued to call for settlement freeze; Palestinian Authority (PA) officials rejected Netanyahu’s conditions. U.S. envoy Mitchell held talks with Israeli, Palestinian leaders 9-10 June. Policeman, 2 Hamas gunmen killed 4 June in PA arrest operation in Qalqilya. Fatah, Hamas leaders began 6th round of Cairo reconciliation talks 28 June, amid tension over continuing reciprocal arrest campaigns in Gaza, West Bank. Israel released Hamas speaker of PA parliament Abd al-Aziz Dweik 23 June. Israeli troops killed 1 at protest against West Bank barrier near Ramallah 1 June. 4 Palestinian gunmen killed in 8 June clash with Israeli troops, northern Gaza border. Several Israeli checkpoints near West Bank cities lifted during month; Israeli military 24 June stated plan to “limit” incursions in Bethlehem, Ramallah, Jericho, Qalqilya. Egypt opened Rafah border with Gaza to students, medical cases 27 June.
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Israel/Palestine
| 1 Jun 2009
PM Netanyahu in Washington for first meeting with U.S. President Obama 18 May. Obama reiterated call for Palestinian statehood, need for Israel to curb West Bank settlements; Netanyahu avoided reference to two states, emphasising need for Palestinian concessions, threat posed by Iran. Netanyahu 24 May defended expansion of settlements for “natural growth”; firm U.S. opposition to any settlement expansion reiterated by Sec State Clinton 27 May, Obama 28 May. 5th round of Hamas-Fatah reconciliation talks in Cairo ended 18 May without agreement. New Palestinian Authority (PA) govt under PM Fayyad sworn in 19 May. New govt includes several Fatah members despite criticism from Fatah factions; denounced by Hamas as illegal and undermining Palestinian dialogue. 6 killed in gun battle 31 May after PA security forces attempted arrest of Hamas militants in Qalqilya. Israeli settlers clashed with Palestinians near Bethlehem 3 May. Israeli soldier killed in Bir Zeit 7 May. Civilian, Hamas commander killed by Israeli army in Hebron, 7, 28 May. Israeli airstrikes hit Gaza tunnels 2, 19 May following mortar, rocket fire into Israel; 2 killed 2 May. 2 militants killed on Gaza border 22 May.
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Comment by Robert Malley (Crisis Group) and Hussein Agha, “Obama and the Middle East”, New York Review of Books, 15 May 2009.
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For background, see Crisis Group Middle East/North Africa Report N°85, Gaza’s Unfinished Business, 23 Apr. 2009.
Israel/Palestine
| 1 May 2009
U.S. commitment to Palestinian state alongside Israel reiterated by envoy Mitchell on mid-Apr visit, by President Obama 21 Apr. PM Netanyahu told Mitchell Palestinian recognition of Israel as “Jewish state” needed for peace; later clarified not precondition for talks. FM Lieberman stated opposition to final status negotiations early month. New round of Cairo talks between Fatah and Hamas ended 28 Apr without agreement on unity govt; further talks for May. Palestinian demonstrator killed 17 Apr at protest against West Bank (WB) barrier. 2 Palestinians killed by Israeli settlers 2, 17 Apr after reportedly attacking southern WB settlements, killing teenage settler 2 Apr. Palestinians 7 Apr clashed with Israeli police in East Jerusalem over demolition of house of June 2008 attacker; Palestinian driver killed by police after car hit nearby roadblock. Armed Bedouin girl attacked police station southern Israel 4 Apr, killed by police. Fishing boat exploded off Gaza coast in suspected attempt to attack Israeli navy patrol 13 Apr. 2 gunmen killed by army at northern Gaza border 4 Apr.
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Israel/Palestine
| 1 Apr 2009
Likud leader Netanyahu sworn in as PM 31 March at head of coalition govt with Labour, far right Yisrael Beiteinu, orthodox Jewish Shas parties; controversial right-winger Avigdor Lieberman appointed FM. Netanyahu pledged to negotiate with Palestinians, but avoided commitment to 2 states. U.S. Sec State Clinton 3-4 March met Israeli, Palestinian leaders, emphasised support for 2-state solution. Cairo talks on Palestinian national unity govt began 10 March; adjourned 19 March amid disagreements on commitment to PLO agreements with Israel, composition of govt. Hamas-Israel talks in Cairo on captured soldier Gilad Shalit ended 19 March without deal. Israel arrested 10 Hamas leaders including MPs in W Bank 19 March. Sporadic rocket fire from Gaza throughout month drew retaliatory strikes from Israel, killing 4 Islamic Jihad members 4-5 March; Hamas criticised rocket fire in 12 March statement. 2 militants killed in airstrike near Gaza-Israel border 31 March. Palestinian shot dead in Jerusalem 5 March after driving bulldozer into police car. 2 Israeli police killed 15 March near W Bank settlement. Car bomb defused in Haifa 21 March, claimed by previously unknown group. Far right Jewish march in Israeli Arab town Umm al-Fahm sparked clashes between heavy police presence and protesting locals.
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