2/16/2017 Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (09 – 15 February 2017) | Palestinian Center for Human Rights Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (09 – 15 February 2017)

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

(09 – 15 February 2016)

A Palestinian Civilian succumbed to his wounds in the Four Palestinian civilians were wounded, including 2 journalists, in the West Bank.

Israeli forces continued to target Palestinian fishermen in the Gaza Sea.

Israeli forces continued to target the border areas, but no casualties were reported.

Israeli forces conducted 60 incursions into Palestinian communities in the West Bank, and one limited incursion in the northern Gaza Strip. 51 civilians, including 4 children, were arrested in the West Bank. 9 of them were arrested in occupied Jerusalem.

Israeli forces continued their efforts to create Jewish majority in occupied . Settlers took over a room, store and yard in Silwan village. 3 houses and sheep barn were destroyed in al­‘Issawiya village, while a civilian was forced to self­ demolish a store in Silwan. Two under­construction houses, part of an inhabited house and shop were levelled in Hezma village, northeast of occupied Jerusalem.

Israeli forces turned the West Bank into cantons and continued to impose the illegal closure on the Gaza Strip for the 10th Dozens of temporary checkpoints were established in the West Bank and others were re­ established to obstruct the movement of Palestinian civilians. 9 Palestinian civilians, including a child and a girl, were arrested at military checkpoints. Israeli forces arrested Director of Tika Agency at “Erez” crossing in the northern Gaza Strip.

Summary

Israeli violations of international law and international humanitarian law in the oPt continued during the reporting period (09 – 15 February 2017).

Shooting:

During the reporting period, A Palestinian civilian succumbed to his wounded while Israeli forces wounded 4 others, including 2 journalists, in the West Bank. In the Gaza Strip, Israeli forces also http://pchrgaza.org/en/?p=8791 1/21 2/16/2017 Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (09 – 15 February 2017) | Palestinian Center for Human Rights continued to chase Palestinian fishermen in the Gaza Sea and open fire at farmers in the border areas.

In the West Bank, On 10 February 2017, the family of Mohammed ‘Amer Jallad (23) from received the news of his death in Belinison Hospital in Petah Tikva in after succumbing to his wounds. According to PCHR’s investigations, on 09 November 2016, Israeli soldiers who were patrolling in the streets of Howarah village, south of , opened fire at the aforementioned civilian. As a result, he was hit with a bullet to the back and another to the right hand. The Israeli forces claimed that Jallad attempted to stab an Israeli soldier before being shot. After Jallad was wounded and arrested, he stayed in Belinison Hospital in Petah Tikva until he died.

On the same day noon, Nidal Ishtaya (48), a photojournalist in the Xinhua – China News Agency, and Ayman al­Nobani (32), a reporter in the Palestinian News Agency (WAFA), were both wounded while covering the weekly protest in Kafr Qodoum, northeast of .

On the same day afternoon, Israeli forces wounded two Palestinian civilians from Madma village, south of Nablus when a number of civilians hurried to rescue volunteer journalist in B’Tselem Center, Ahmed Ziyadah (26). The latter was arrested and beaten up by the Israeli soldiers when he was taking photos of the lands seized and planted with grapes.by settlers, south of his village.

In the Gaza Strip, in the context of targeting Palestinian fishermen in the Gaza Sea, on 12 February 2017, Israeli gunboats stationed offshore, northwest of in the northern Gaza Strip, heavily opened fire at Palestinian fishing boats and chased them. The shooting recurred on 14 February 2017, but neither causalities nor damages were reported.

On the same day, the Israeli gunboats opened fire at the fishing boats sailing off shore, south of the Gaza Strip. Neither casualties nor damages were reported.

In the context of targeting border areas, on 15 February 2017, Israeli forces sporadically opened fire at the border area, north of Beit Hanoun village in the northern Gaza Strip. Neither casualties nor damages were reported.

Incursions:

During the reporting period, Israeli forces conducted at least 60 military incursions into Palestinian communities in the West Bank. During these incursions, Israeli forces arrested at least 51 Palestinian civilians, including 4 children. Nine of them were arrested in occupied Jerusalem.

In the Gaza Strip, Israeli forces carried out a limited incursion into the northern side of the Agricultural School, north of Beit Hanoun in the northern Gaza Strip, and levelled lands. http://pchrgaza.org/en/?p=8791 2/21 2/16/2017 Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (09 – 15 February 2017) | Palestinian Center for Human Rights

Efforts to create Jewish majority

In the context of house demolitions and notices, On 12 February 2017, the family of ‘Amamr Qara’in self­demolish their store in Silwan village, south of occupied Jerusalem’s Old City, implementing the Israeli Municipality’s decision and avoiding to pay financial fines. The 12­square­meter store was built of bricks and cardboard sheets two years ago

On 14 February 2017, the Israeli authorities demolished a house in al­‘Issawiyah village, northeast of occupied Jerusalem, belonging to the family of Saleh Turk. The house used to shelter a family of 11 members, including 6 children.

On the Same say, the Israeli authorities demolished an under­construction house comprised of two apartments in al­‘Issawiyah village as well belonging to Hasan Yasin Mustafa in addition to a sheep barn in the same area. The demolition was under the pretext of building without a license.

On 15 February 2017, Israeli forces accompanied with Israeli Municipality crews and bulldozers moved into the area adjacent to the annexation wall, which separates Hezma village from Jerusalem. The Israeli bulldozers immediately demolished two under­construction houses, part of an inhabited house and a shop under the pretext of building without a license.

In the same context, the Israeli municipality handed 17 families in Silwan village, south of Jerusalem’s Old City, administrative and judicial house demolition notices and orders. Those houses are located in the neighbourhoods of al­Bustan, ‘Ein al­Lozah and Wadi Helweh. Those families were identified as al­ Roweidi, al­Qadi, al­Shaloudi, al­‘Abasi, Hamdan and Qara’in, and their members are around 120, most of whom were children and women.

In the context of settlers’ attacks against Palestinian civilians and their property, on 10 February 2017, Israeli settlers seized an uninhabited estate in Wadi Helweh neighbourhood in Silwan village. The estate is comprised of a residential room, store and yard.

Restrictions on movement:

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

The illegal closure of the Gaza Strip, which has been steadily tightened since June 2007 has had a disastrous impact on the humanitarian and economic situation in the Gaza Strip. The Israeli authorities impose measures to undermine the freedom of trade, including the basic needs for the Gaza Strip population and the agricultural and industrial products to be exported. For 9 consecutive years, Israel has tightened the land and naval closure to isolate the Gaza Strip from the West Bank, including http://pchrgaza.org/en/?p=8791 3/21 2/16/2017 Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (09 – 15 February 2017) | Palestinian Center for Human Rights occupied Jerusalem, and other countries around the world. This resulted in grave violations of the economic, social and cultural rights and a deterioration of living conditions for 2 million people. The Israeli authorities have established Karm Abu Salem (Kerem Shaloum) as the sole crossing for imports and exports in order to exercise its control over the Gaza Strip’s economy. They also aim at imposing a complete ban on the Gaza Strip’s exports. The Israeli closure raised the rate of poverty to 65%. Moreover, the rate of unemployment increased up to 47% and youth constitutes 65% of the unemployed persons. Moreover, 80% of the Gaza Strip population depends on international aid to secure their minimum daily needs. These rates indicate the unprecedented economic deterioration in the Gaza Strip.

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

Details

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

Thursday, 09 February 2017

At approximately 01:30, Israeli forces moved into Deir al­‘Asal village, west of Dura, southwest of . They raided and searched a house belonging to Nafeth Rasmi al­Shawamrah (34) and then arrested him.

At approximately 02:30, Israeli forces moved into Kharsa village, south of Dura, southwest of Hebron. They raided and searched a house belonging to Mohammed Kamel Eqtil and then arrested his son Jaser (26). Following that, the Israeli soldiers raided and searched a house belonging to Montaser Abdul Majid Shadeed (27) and arrested him.

At approximately 04:30, Israeli forces moved into Mazare’i al­Nubani village, north of . They raided and searched 2 houses belonging to ‘Odah Ahmed ‘Odah al­Qadi (50) and Mustafa ‘Oudah Ahmed al­Qadi (16) and then arrested them.

At approximately 20:30, Israeli forces moved into Beta village, south of Nablus. They raided and searched a house belonging to Sadeq Nasser ‘Ouaidah (19), who carried out a stab attack in Petah Tikva, and questioned the family members, but no arrests were reported. The Israeli forces http://pchrgaza.org/en/?p=8791 4/21 2/16/2017 Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (09 – 15 February 2017) | Palestinian Center for Human Rights also raided and searched 2 houses belonging to Hamzah Abdul Raouf al­Jaghoub (19) and Adham Lutfi Ghazi (19), Sadeq’s friends, and then arrested them.

Note: During the aforementioned day, Israeli forces conducted (3) incursions in the following areas and no arrests were reported: Ethna, al­Samou’a and al­Koum villages in Hebron.

Friday, 10 February 2017

At approximately 01:00, Israeli forces moved into Oasrin village, southeast of Nablus. They raided and searched a house belonging to Samer Rawhi ‘Adili (28), confiscated his car and then arrested him. They claimed that Samer transferred Sadeq ‘Ouaidah, who carried out a stab attack in Petah Tikva, by his car to ‘Azzoun Etmah village, southeast of Qalqiliyah. It should be noted that Palestinian workers, who did not obtaine work permits in Israel, usually cross the abovementioned village to their work places in Israel.

At approximately 01:30, Israeli forces moved into ‘Asker refugee camp, northeast of Nablus. They raided and searched a house belonging to Saleem Suleiman Mohammed al­‘Akah (24) and then arrested him.

Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into N’ilin village, west of Ramallah. They raided and searched a house belonging to former prisoner Morad Reda Mohammed Hamdiah (33) and then arrested him.

At approximately 03:15, Israeli forces moved into ‘Azzoun Etmah village, southeast of Qalqiliyah. They raided and searched a number of houses and then arrested 8 civilians (PCHR keeps the names of the arrested civilians). The Israeli forces claimed that the arrested civilians transfer by their own cars the Palestinian workers, who did not obtain work permits in Israel. They were arrested after a Palestinian young man carried out a stab attack in Petah Tikva a day before.

At approximately 14:00, the family of Mohammed ‘Amer Thabet Ibrahim Jallad (23) from Tulkarm were informed of his death in Belinison Hospital in Petah Tikva in Israel. Mohammed was arrested after being wounded by Israeli soldiers.

According to PCHR’s investigations, at approximately 08:15 on Wednesday, 09 November 2016, one of the Israeli soldiers, who were patrolling the main street in Howrah village, south of Nablus, opened fire at Mohammed Jallad. As a result, he was hit with a bullet to the back, causing laceration, and another to the waist as his intestines came out of his waist. He was also hit with a bullet to the right hand, cutting the main hand artery according to the PRCS officer, who offered him first aid before a Magen David Adom’s (MDA) ambulance arrived and took him to an unknown destination. The Israeli forces claimed that Jallad attempted to stab an Israeli soldier before the latter shoot him. It was later found out that the http://pchrgaza.org/en/?p=8791 5/21 2/16/2017 Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (09 – 15 February 2017) | Palestinian Center for Human Rights abovementioned civilian had a sebaceous cyst in the lymph glands and was receiving medical treatment in the Hospital of al­Najah National University in Nablus. He was on his way to the abovementioned hospital to complete his medical treatment. After Jallad was wounded and arrested, he stayed in Belinison Hospital in Petah Tikva until he was announced dead.

At approximately 14:30, Israeli forces moved into Fahmah village, south of . They raided and searched several houses and then arrested Moneer Khamis al­Batran (30). At approximately 15:30, they withdrew taking him to an unknown destination.

In the evening, Israeli forces injured 2 Palestinian civilians from Madama, south of Nablus. According to PCHR’s investigations, at approximately 17:00, journalist Ahmed Abdul Ghani Salim Ziyadah (26) from Madama, south of Nablus, was taking photos of the lands seized and planted with vineyards by Israeli settlers, south of his village. The Israeli soldiers from “Yitzhar” settlement moved into the area and stopped him as three soldiers heavily beat and kicked his head though Ahmed showed them his press card in addition to his volunteer card in the Israeli Information Center for Human Rights in the Occupied Territories B’Tselem. They then arrested him and handcuffed him while he was lying on the ground. Ahmed’s brothers and residents of the village heard the news, so they rushed to the place to save him. His brother Mahmoud (25) was the first to arrive, and when he attempted to approach him, the soldiers drove him out. When he was moving back, a soldier fired a metal bullet directly to his left foot, wounding his knee. A civilian car took him to nearby Burin village, from which he was transferred via a PRCS ambulance to Rafidia Hospital in Nablus. Following that, the Israeli soldiers fired tear gas canisters at the crowd to force them to leave the area. As a result, Mohammed Na’im Mohammed Nassar (35) was hit with a tear gas canister to the head after which he was as well transferred to Rafidia Hospital. The Israeli forces then arrested the abovementioned journalist and took him to an unknown destination.

Note: During the aforementioned day, Israeli forces conducted (3) incursions in the following areas and no arrests were reported: Yatta and Sa’ir villages in Hebron; Dura al­Qare’i village, north of Ramallah.

Saturday, 11 February 2017

Note: During the aforementioned day, Israeli forces conducted (8) incursions in the following areas and no arrests were reported: Dura, Bani Na’im, Deir al­‘asal and Deir Samet villages in Hebron; Sebastia village, northwest of Nablus; Jeet village, northeast of Qalqiliyah; Kafel Hares village, north of and Kuber village, north of Ramallah.

Sunday, 12 February 2017

At approximately 01:30, Israeli forces moved into Yatta, south of Hebron, and stationed in al­ Karmel neighbourhood. They raided and searched a house belonging to Haitham Jamil ‘Awad (30)

http://pchrgaza.org/en/?p=8791 6/21 2/16/2017 Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (09 – 15 February 2017) | Palestinian Center for Human Rights and then handed him a summons to refer to the Israeli Intelligence Service in “Gush Etzion” settlement complex, south of .

At approximately 02:30, Israeli forces moved into Beit Ummer village, north of Hebron. They raided and searched a house belonging to Qusai Mohammed Kamel Abu Maria (14) and then arrested him. At the meantime, anther Israeli force raided and searched a house belonging to ‘Arafat ‘Essa al­Za’aqiq, whose son ‘Arafat was killed on 27 November 2015 by the Israeli forces in Abu al­Tawq area, east of the village. They claimed that ‘Arafat carried out a run­over attack against the Israeli soldiers. The soldiers took the family members outside the house to search it. They also raided a house belonging to the ‘Arafat’s uncles: Mohammed, Ghazi and Bashar and took the names of their family members and phone numbers in addition to taking photos of them. However, no arrests were reported.

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

At approximately 09:10, Israeli forces moved into ‘Azzoun village, east of Qalqiliyah. They raided and searched a number of houses after which they arrested 3 civilians namely Omer Ahmed Abdullah Saleem (20), Osama Ahmed Abdullah Saleem (19) and Laith Rabi Ahmed Rabi (20).

At approximately 23:00, Israeli gunboats opened fire at a Palestinian fishing boats sailing off Rafah shore in the southern Gaza Strip. As a result, the fishermen were forced to flee for fear of their lives, but neither casualties nor damages were reported.

Note: During the aforementioned day, Israeli forces conducted (4) incursions in the following areas and no arrests were reported: ‘Ourta village, southeast of Nablus; Betunia village, west of Ramallah and Beit Awa and al­Mawreq villages in Hebron.

Monday, 13 February 2017

At approximately 01:30, Israeli forces moved into Qalqiliyah. They raided and searched 2 houses belonging to Khalid ‘Ali Mustafa Suwailem (23) and his cousin ‘Esam ‘Ali Salah Suwailem (21) and then arrested them.

At approximately 02:00, Israeli forces moved into the southern area in Hebron. They raided and searched 2 houses belonging to Emad Hamdi Abu Khalaf (25), Yusuf Khairi Abu Suneinah (23) and then arrested them. http://pchrgaza.org/en/?p=8791 7/21 2/16/2017 Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (09 – 15 February 2017) | Palestinian Center for Human Rights

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

At approximately 11:30, Israeli forces moved into al­Jaftalak village, north of . They raided and searched a house belonging to Mohammed Mustafa Bani ‘Oudah (37) and then arrested him.

Note: During the aforementioned day, Israeli forces conducted (3) incursions in the following areas and no arrests were reported: Sa’ir and Yatta villages in Hebron and Howarah village in Nablus.

Tuesday, 14 February 2017

At approximately 01:00, Israeli forces moved into al­Shayoukh village, north of Hebron. They raided and searched a house belonging to Abdul Rahim Abdul Jawad Halaiqah (55) and then arrested him.

Note: During the aforementioned day, Israeli forces conducted (3) incursions in the following areas and no arrests were reported: Beit Ummer and al­Thaheriyah villages and al­‘Aroub refugee camps in Hebron.

Wednesday, 15 February 2017

At approximately 01:00, Israeli forces moved into al­Shajenah Valley village, east of Dura, southwest of Hebron. They raided and searched a house belonging to Noor Ahmed al­Bastanji (22) and then arrested him.

At approximately 01:30, Israeli forces moved into ‘Azzoun village, east of Qalqiliyah. They patrolled in the streets and deployed in the area. They then raided and searched 4 houses belonging to Feras Mahmoud Shehadah (20), Zaid ‘Ali abdul Hafez Edwan (22), Nedal Safwan Mansour Saleem (15) and Hamed Jamal Abu Haniah (19).

At approximately 02:00, Israeli forces moved into Beit Ummer village, north of Hebron. They raided and searched a number of houses after which they arrested 3 civilians, including a child. The http://pchrgaza.org/en/?p=8791 8/21 2/16/2017 Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (09 – 15 February 2017) | Palestinian Center for Human Rights arrested civilians were identified as Raed Mohammed Mahmoud Ekhleil (4), who was injured by the Israeli forces to the pelvis two months ago and is not able to move; Mohammed Ghazi Essa Za’aqiq (20) and Mohammed Mahmoud Abdullah ‘Awad (16).

Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Bil’in village, west of Ramallah. They raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Waqqas Hasan Mansour (14) and then arrested him. They also raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Malek Radi Yaseen (19) and then handed his family a summons to refer to the Israeli Intelligence Service.

At approximately 02:30, Israeli forces moved into Emrish village, south of Dura, southwest of Hebron. They raided and searched a house belonging to Yusuf Ibrahim Shaheen (22) and then arrested him.

At approximately 03:00, Israeli forces moved into Faqou’ah village, south of Jenin. They raided and searched several houses and then arrested teacher Abdullah ‘Ali Enkhaili (28).

At approximately 04:30, Israeli forces moved into Kafer ‘Ein village, northwest of Ramallah. They raided and searched a house belonging to former prisoner Rami Rebhi al­Barghuthi (35) and then arrested him.

At approximately 10:50, Israeli forces stationed in the military watchtowers, north of al­Zera’ah School, north of Beit Hanoun village in the northern Gaza Strip, opened fire at the border area. As a result, the farmers and shepherds were panicked, so they left the area for fear of their lives.

Note: During the aforementioned day, Israeli forces conducted (3) incursions in the following areas and no arrests were reported: Kafer Ne’mah and N’ilin villages, west of Ramallah ; Beta village, southeast of Nablus.

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

West Bank:

Following the Friday prayer on 10 February 2017, dozens of Palestinian civilians and Israeli and international human rights defenders organized a peaceful protest in the eastern Mosque in Kafer Qadoum village, northeast of Qalqiliyah, and then headed to the eastern entrance of the village in protest against closing that entrance since the beginning of al­Aqsa Intifada with an iron gate. When the protesters approached the entrance, the Israeli forces fired live and metal bullets, tear http://pchrgaza.org/en/?p=8791 9/21 2/16/2017 Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (09 – 15 February 2017) | Palestinian Center for Human Rights gas canisters and sound bombs at them. As a result, Nedal Shafiq Taher Ehstiyah (48), journalist at Xinhua Chinese News Agency, sustained a metal bullet wound to the left foot as he was directly shot while covering the protest along with a group of journalists. He was transferred to Rafidia Hospital in Nablus. Moreover, Ayman Amin al­Nubani (32), a reporter at Wafa News Agency, was hit with a metal bullet to the right shoulder and received medical treatment at the spot.

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

2. Continued closure of the oPt

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

Gaza Strip

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

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

Israeli forces have continued to impose a total ban on the delivery of raw materials to the Gaza Strip, except for very limited items and quantities. The limited quantities of raw materials allowed into Gaza do not meet the minimal needs of the civilian population of the Gaza Strip.

Israeli forces also continued to impose an almost total ban on the Gaza Strip exports, including agricultural and industrial products, except for light­weighted products such as flowers, strawberries, and spices. However, they lately allowed the exportation of some vegetables such as cucumber and tomatoes, furniture and fish.

http://pchrgaza.org/en/?p=8791 10/21 2/16/2017 Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (09 – 15 February 2017) | Palestinian Center for Human Rights Israel has continued to close the Beit Hanoun (Erez) crossing for the majority of Palestinian citizens from the Gaza Strip. Israel only allows the movement of a limited number of groups, with many hours of waiting in the majority of cases. Israel has continued to adopt a policy aimed at reducing the number of Palestinian patients allowed to move via the Beit Hanoun crossing to receive medical treatment in hospitals in Israel or in the West Bank and East Jerusalem. Israel also continued applying the policy of making certain civilian traveling via the crossing interviewed by the Israeli intelligence service to be questioned, blackmailed or arrested.

Movement at Karm Abu Salem (Kerem Shalom) crossing, southeast of Rafah, is designated for the movement of goods

(06 – 13 February 2017)

Imports Date Amount Category Tons Number Liters Various goods 4581 Humanitarian aid 4510 Cooking gas 252,450 Benzene 265,998 Diesel 815,838 06 February Diesel for UNRWA 76,000

Industrial fuel 595,418 Cement 3536 Construction steel 53 Various goods 4727 Humanitarian aid 4452 Cooking gas 206,690 Benzene 292,078 07 February Diesel 707,527

Diesel for UNRWA 38,000

Industrial fuel 605,172 Cement 4000 Construction steel 323 08 February Various goods 4134 Humanitarian aid 5776

Cooking gas 171,480 Benzene 292,078 Diesel 652,975

Diesel for UNRWA 75,951 http://pchrgaza.org/en/?p=8791 11/21 2/16/2017 Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (09 – 15 February 2017) | Palestinian Center for Human Rights Industrial fuel 601,166 Cement 4092 Construction steel 376 Cooking gas 128,760 Industrial fuel 531,275 Various goods 3709 Humanitarian aid 8575 Cooking gas 245,600 Benzene 224,016 Diesel 446,532 09 February Diesel for UNRWA 76,000

Industrial fuel 601,242 Cement 3886 Construction steel 376 Various goods 4362 Humanitarian aid 10727 Cooking gas 245,850 Benzene 307,995 10 February Diesel 661,910

Diesel for UNRWA 38,000

Industrial fuel 597,519 Construction aggregate 5740 Cement 3800 Construction steel 977

Note:

On Monday, 06 February 2017, the Israeli authorities allowed the exportation of 40 tons of tomatoes; 60 tons of cucumbers; 20 tons of eggplants and 92 tons of aluminum scrap.

On Wednesday, 08 February 2017, the Israeli authorities allowed the exportation of 52.8 tons of tomatoes; 30 tons of cucumbers; 20.8 tons of eggplants; 9.6 tons of sweet peppers; 10.8 tons of squash; 30.9 tons of strawberries; 6 tons of furniture; 1.96 tons of hot pepper; 10 tons of aluminum scrap and 0.64 tons of cabbages.

On Thursday, 09 February 2017, the Israeli authorities allowed the exportation of 60.1 tons of tomatoes; 38.4 tons of cucumbers; 20.4 tons of eggplants; 12.4 tons of sweet peppers; 12.8 tons of squash; 2.5 tons of strawberries; 1.5 tons of cabbage; 4 tons of clothes; 3.2 tons of hot pepper and 13 tons furniture.

On Sunday, 12 February 2017, the Israeli authorities allowed the exportation of 17 truckloads of vegetables; one truckload of fish and 6 truckloads of strawberries.

On Monday, 13 February 2017, the Israeli authorities allowed the exportation of 11 truckloads of vegetables. http://pchrgaza.org/en/?p=8791 12/21 2/16/2017 Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (09 – 15 February 2017) | Palestinian Center for Human Rights

Beit Hanoun (“Erez”) crossing, in the north of the Gaza Strip, is designated for the movement of individuals, and links the Gaza Strip with the West Bank.

Movement at Beit Hanoun (“Erez”) crossing

(15 – 21 February 2017)

15 16 17 18 19 20 21 Category February February February February February February February Patients 52 34 1 – 89 59 73 Companions 47 33 1 – 85 60 73 Personal 33 42 5 – 38 28 45 needs Families 1 – – – – 67 – of prisoners

Arabs from 3 9 16 – 24 8 4 Israel

Diplomats 6 15 6 – – 7 12 International – – – – – – – journalists International 20 82 9 – 19 11 24 workers Travelers – – 1 – 1 1 63 Abroad

Business 183 162 1 – 191 162 124 people Business – – – – – – – meetings Security 6 3 – – 5 4 10 interviews VIPs – – 1 – – 2 – Ambulances 2 3 – – 3 3 1 to Israel

Patients’ 2 3 – – 3 1 1 Companions

http://pchrgaza.org/en/?p=8791 13/21 2/16/2017 Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (09 – 15 February 2017) | Palestinian Center for Human Rights

Israeli Forces Arrest Director of TIKA Agency at Beit Hanoun “Erez” Crossing

At approximately 11:00 on Monday, 13 February 2017, Israeli forces stationed at Beit Hanoun “Erez” crossing, arrested Mohamed Farouq Sha’ban Murtaja (37), from al­Fayrouz towers in al­Nasir neighborhood, north of . Mohamed, Director of Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency “TIKA” in Gaza, was heading to to travel to Turkey via Jordan. Mohamed’s father said to PCHR’s fieldworker that at approximately 10:00, his son headed to the Erez crossing to travel to Turkey as his colleague the Director of TIKA Agency in the West Bank was waiting for him on the other side to travel together to Turkey. However, his son did not get out of the crossing. At approximately 09:00 on Tuesday, 14 February 2017, Mohamed’s father received a call from al­Majdal police station informing him that his son is under investigation. When Mohamed’s father asked the caller about how long the investigations would take, he answered it is none of his business.

Israel has imposed a tightened closure on the West Bank. During the reporting period, Israeli forces imposed additional restrictions on the movement of Palestinian civilians:

Hebron: Israeli forces established (15) checkpoints all over the city.

On Thursday, 09 February 2017, Israeli forces closed the entrance to al­Fawar feugee camp, south of Hebron, with an iron gate and prevented Palestinian civilians from entering and exiting the village. Around the same time, Israeli forces established 3 checkpoints at the entrances to Beit Ummer, Tarqumiya and Beit Olaa villages.

On Friday, 10 February 2017, Israeli forces established 2 checkpoints at the entrances to al­Fawar refugee camp and Samou’a village.

On Saturday, 11 February 2017, 2 similar checkpoints were established at the northern entrance to Hebron and at the entrance to Samou’a village.

On Monday, 13 February 2017, Israeli forces established 2 checkpoints at the entrances to Sa’ir and Beit Kahel villages.

On Monday, 13 February 2017, Israeli forces established 2 similar checkpoints at the entrances to al Fawar refugee camp and Samou’a village.

On Tuesday, 14 February 2017, Israeli forces established 2 checkpoints at the entrances to al­Fawar refugee camp and Samou’a village.

Ramallah and al­Bireh: Israeli forces established (6) checkpoints all over the city.

At approximately 18:00 on Thursday, 09 February 2017, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the intersection of al­Taiba village ( al­Mo’arajat road between Ramallah and Jericho).

On Saturday, 11 February 2017, Israeli forces established 5 checkpoints at the intersection of al­Taiba village; at ‘Atara bridge; and at the entrances to Um Safa, Safa and Kherbitha cl­Mosbah villages. http://pchrgaza.org/en/?p=8791 14/21 2/16/2017 Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (09 – 15 February 2017) | Palestinian Center for Human Rights

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

On Saturday, 11 February 2017, Israeli forces established 3 checkpoints at the entrances to ‘Azoun ‘Itmah village, southeast of Qalqilyia; and at the entrances to ‘Azoun and ‘Izbit al­Tabeeb villages, east of the city.

At approximately 06:00 on Sunday, 12 February 2017, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the entrance to ‘Azoun ‘Itmah village, southeast of Qalqiliya. They searched Palestinian vehicles and checked their IDs. They also detained Isma’il Faieq Hasan Ahmed and Ghareeb Ibrahim Hasan Ahmed and then released them later. After that, the checkpoint was removed and no arrests were reported.

At approximately 14:30 on Monday, 13 February 2017, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the entrance to ‘Izbit al­Tabeeb village, east of Qalqilyia.

At approximately 07:40 on Tuesday, 14 February 2017, they established a similar checkpoint at the entrance to ‘Azoun ‘Itmah village, southeast of the city.

Nablus:

At approximately 16:00 on Friday, 10 February 2017, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the entrance to Bita al­Rayyes village, south of Nablus.

At approximately 18:00 on Saturday, 11 February 2017, Israeli forces stationed at Hawar and Za’tara checpoints, south of Nablus, closed the checkpoint and prevented Palestinian civilians from passing in both sides.

At approximately 16:00 on Sunday, 12 February 2017, Israeli forces established 2 checkpoints on Nablus­Tulkarm street, west of Deir Sharaf village; and at the intersection of Surra village, branching from Nablus­ Qalqilyia street.

Jericho:

At approximately 10:00 on Tuesday, 14 February 2017, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the northern entrance to Jericho. At approximately 10:30, they established a similar checkpoint at the southern entrance to the city.

Arrests at military checkpoints:

At approximately 17:00 on Friday, 10 February 2017, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the intersection of Deir Sharaf village, west of Nablus. They stopped Palestinian civilians and checked http://pchrgaza.org/en/?p=8791 15/21 2/16/2017 Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (09 – 15 February 2017) | Palestinian Center for Human Rights their IDs. They also arrested Mohamed Isma’il Jum’a Qatawi (25), from Balata refugee camp, east of the city, while returning from Tulkarm.

At approximately 10:00 on Saturday, 11 February 2017, Israeli forces stationed at the entrance to al­Ibrahimi mosque, in the center of Hebron, arrested Israa Jaber (18). They claimed that Israa attempted to carry out a stabbing attack and she was then taken to the police station in “Kiryat Arba” settlement, east of the city for investigation.

Around the same time, Israeli forces stationed at al­Karama crossing arrested Jaber Jamal Jaber ‘Oda (23), from Hawara village, south of Nablus, while returning from Turkey.

At approximately 13:00 on Saturday, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the eastern entrance to Qalqilyia. They searched Palestinian civilians’ vehicles and checked their IDs. They also arrested Rafat Basam Abu Zowaied (55), from Qalqiliya.

At approximately 23:30, Israeli forces established a checkpoint near al­Jalazoun refugee camp, north of Ramallah. They checked Palestinian IDs and arrested Yousef Moahmed al­Ghaliz (16).

At approximately 17:00 on Sunday, 13 February 2017, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the intersection of al­Naqoura village, northwest of Nablus. They checked Palestinian IDs and arrested Raslan Hasan Dahileh (24), from al­Showikah suburb, north of Tulkarm.

At approximately 22:00 on the same day, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the intersection of “Eli” settlement, north of Ramallah, and checked Palestinian IDs. At approximately 23:30, the Israeli forces arrested 3 palestinian civilains while returning to Tulkarm. The arrested persons were identified as Ahmed Mohamed Mahmoud Abu ‘Abed (35), Husni Hasan Ahmed Abu Zughaib (42) and Haiel Sa’ied al­Khouli (34).

Efforts to Create Jewish majority

Israeli forces escalated their attacks on Palestinian civilians and their property. They have also continued their raids on al­Aqsa Mosque and denied the Palestinians access to it:

Arrests and Incursions: http://pchrgaza.org/en/?p=8791 16/21 2/16/2017 Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (09 – 15 February 2017) | Palestinian Center for Human Rights

At approximately 01:00 on Monday, 13 February 2017, Israeli forces moved into al­Mukaber Mount village, southeast of occupied Jerusalem. They raided and searched a house belonging to Majd Ali Abu Sakran and arrested him.

At approximately 01:30 on Monday, Israeli forces moved into many neighbourhoods in occupied Jerusalem’s Old City. They raided and searched 2 houses belonging to ‘Alaa Monther Najeeb and Mohamed Murad Najeeb, and arrested both of them.

At approximately 02:00 on Monday, Israeli forces moved into al­‘Issawiya village, northeast of occupied Jerusalem. They raided and searched houses from which 6 Palestinian civilians were arrested. The arrested civilians were identified as Baraa Mahmoud, Mahmoud Derbas, Mohamed ‘Obaid, Ameer Derbas, Bashar Mahmoud and Ashraf ‘Obaid.

House demolitions and demolition notices:

On Friday, 10 February 2017, Israeli forces accompanied with Israeli municipality crews moved into Silwan village, south of occupied Jerusalem’s Old City. They raided and searched houses in al­Bustan, ‘Ain al­Louza and Wady al­Helwa neighbourhoods, where they handed 17 families administrative and judicial demolition notices. The abovementioned families were identified as al­ Rowaidy, al­Qadi, al­Shaloduy, al­‘Abasi, Hamdan and Qara’een. Those families are comprised of 120 members; most of them are women and children.

Fakhri Abu Diab, Member of the Defense Committee of Silwan lands, said that the Israeli municipality crews gave 7 days to the residents to refer to the municipality regarding the demolition notices in order to obtain licenses. He added the families who were handed the demolition notices live in the al­Bustan neighbourhood’s facilities, which are threatened with demolition in favour of the Israeli municipality project “King Park”. He also said that many schemes were submitted to licence the houses during the past years, but in vain. The latest decision of the Israeli municipality provides that, “freezing the demolition orders regarding al­Bustan neighbourhood’s facilities ends on 28 February 2017.”

On Sunday, 12 February 2017, ‘Amar Qara’een family self­demolished their store in Silwan village, south of occupied Jerusalem’s Old City, to implement the Israeli municipality’s decision and to avoid paying fines. The family stated that they demolished the store after the Israeli municipality crews raided it on the abovementioned day. The Israeli forces took photos of the store and handed a demolition notice to the family. It should be noted that the 12­square­meter store was built with bricks and tin plates 2 years ago.

On Tuesday, 14 February 2017, the Israeli Municipality demolished a house belonging to Saleh Turk, in al­‘Issawiya village, northeast of occupied Jerusalem, under the pretext of non­licensing. Al­Turk said that a large focre of Israeli soldiers along with special forces and municipality crews raided his house after surrounding it and forcing its residents to get out of it. They prevented them http://pchrgaza.org/en/?p=8791 17/21 2/16/2017 Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (09 – 15 February 2017) | Palestinian Center for Human Rights from evacuating the house contents. After that, the Israeli municipality vehicles completely demolished the house without warning the family. It should be noted that the Israeli Municipality Court delayed the demolition decision for a year, ending on 08 February 2017. They also imposed a fine of NIS 25,000 on the family, who should pay before the aforementioned date. The house is comprised of one floor and built on an area of 100 square meters. Around 11 persons, including 6 children, used to live in the house.

On Tuesday, the Israeli authorities demolished 2 under­construction apartments belonging to Hasan Yaseen Ali Mostafa in al­‘Issawiyia village, northeast of occupied Jerusalem, under the pretext of non­licensing.

Mohammed Abu al­Hummus, Member of the Follow­up Committee in al­‘Issawiyia village, said that Israeli municipality crews accompanied with a large force of Israeli soldiers and special forces moved into al­Kharouba area. They surrounded a residential building comprised of 2 apartments and then demolished it. The building’s owner said that the building was built on an area of 270 square meters 4 months ago. The Israeli forces also demolished a livestock barn belonging to ‘Alaa Saleh and leveled trees and plantings near the livestock barn.

On Wednesday, 15 February 2017, Israeli forces accompanied with Israeli municipality crews and bulldozers moved into the area located near the annexation wall, which separates Hizmah village from occupied Jerusalem. The Israeli bulldozers demolished 2 under­construction houses; part of another house and a shop, under the pretext of non­licensing. The first house built on an area of 70 square meters belongs to Jaber ‘Akrama a­Khatib, while the second house built on an area of 130 square meters belongs to ‘Esam Abed al­‘Aziz al­Khatib. Meanwhile, the shop built on an area of 130 square meters belongs to Helmi Siyouri. Moroever, they demolished a 40­square­meter room attached to a house belonging to Abdullah al­Khatib. It should be noted that the abovementioned civilian, who is married with 2 children, partially self­demolished the room a day before for fear that the Israeli municipality would impose a fine on him if the room was demolished by the municipality. However, in the next day, the Israeli municipality completely demolished the room.

It should be noted that the area, where the demolition happened, is considered by the Israeli Municipality within its controlled areas while the residents hold the identity card of Western National Authority. In 2006, the Israeli authorities built the annexation wall adjacent to the civilian houses in the village and so separated these houses from Jerusalem. Moreover, they isolated the Palestinian civilians in Hizmah village from their lands, which became in the other side of the annexation wall, clearing the way for expanding the “Pisgat Zeev” settlement.

Settlement activities and attacks by settlers against Palestinian civilians and property

On Friday, 10 February 2017, an Israeli settler seized an uninhabited facility in Wady Helweh neighborhood in Silwan village, south of occupied Jerusalem’s Old City. The facility is comprised of a residential room, store and yard. Eyewitnesses said that a group of Israeli settlers accompanied with Israeli forces moved into Hosh Qara’een area in Wady Helweh using searchlights and completely surrounded the the area. They then seized a residential room, yard and stores used for grazing livestock. After that, the Israeli settlers changed the facility’s locks after seizing and surrounding it with metal fence. It should be noted that the residential room was built on an area of http://pchrgaza.org/en/?p=8791 18/21 2/16/2017 Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (09 – 15 February 2017) | Palestinian Center for Human Rights 30 square meters, and the yard was built on an area of 50 square meters, while the store, which was used for grazing livestock, was built on an area of 200 square meters. The abovementioned facility belongs to ‘Ezat Salah (76).

At approximately 12:30 on Saturday, 11 February 2017, a security officer of “Ro’iya” settlement, Moshe Sevan, stopped a car belonging to Nasir Mohamed Abed Bani ‘Oda, from Tamoun village, southeast of Tubasto in al­Hadidiya area in the Northern Jordan Valley. The car was on its way out of al­Hadidiya area, where the abovementioned officer stopped it and then called an Israeli patrol to come. The Israeli patrol then arrived at the area and obliged the vehicle’s owner to return to al­ Hadidiya area, load 4 rolls of plastic water pipes and then come back. After that, the Israeli patrol took the vehicle to “Ro’iya” settlement, where they detained it and released its owner without giving him any documents proving the confiscation of his vehicle.

Maltreatment of Palestinian Civilians:

At approximately 22:00 on Monday, 13 February 2017, Palestinian civilians in Abu Marzouq neighbourhoods in al­Hariah Valley area, south of Hebron, found Mohammed Mahmoud Amr (70), from the abovementioned neighbourhood with his head and face covered in blood after Israeli soldiers attacked him. A PRCS ambulance transferred him to the Governmental Hospital in the neighbourhood. He underwent medical tests and later transferred to al­Ahli Hospital in the city where he was admitted to the intensive care unit due to bleeding in the brain. Ma’moun, Mohammed’s son, said to PCHR’s fieldworker that his father suffers from memory loss after he had suffered several strokes. He added that his father was lost in the evening and the family was informed that Mohammed was seen near al­Karantina area where there were Israeli soldiers. When Ma’moun headed to the area, he saw a speeding military jeep leaving the area after which Mohammed’s family knew he is staying in the abovementioned hospital.

Bilal Abu Salimiyah (22) said to PCHR’s fieldworker that:

“While I was on my back home at approximately 22:00, I saw an Israeli military jeep stopping about 15 meters away from the western side of my house. When I approached the jeep, an Israeli soldier ordered me to leave the area, so I returned home and went up to the second floor of the house. I looked through the window to see what was going on. Two soldiers moved something out of the jeep and then left. After that, I quickly went to the area and saw a white­bearded old man wearing light clothes and trembling from the cold as his forehead was covered with blood. Another man and I arrived at the area and tried to speak to the old man, but he did not respond. I then called an ambulance that later arrived and transferred to the hospital. I later knew that the old man’s name was Mohammed Amr and suffers from memory loss.”

Recommendations to the International Community

http://pchrgaza.org/en/?p=8791 19/21 2/16/2017 Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (09 – 15 February 2017) | Palestinian Center for Human Rights 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 won the majority of seats of the Palestinian Legislative Council. PCHR stresses that there is international recognition of Israel’s obligation to respect international human rights instruments and the international humanitarian law, especially the Hague Regulations concerning the Laws and Customs of War on Land and the Geneva Conventions. Israel is bound to apply the international human rights law and the law of war sometime reciprocally and other times in parallel in a way that achieves the best protection for civilians and remedy for victims.

In light of continued arbitrary measures, land confiscation and settlement activities in the West Bank, and the latest 51­day offensive against civilians in the Gaza Strip, PCHR calls upon the international community, especially the United Nations, the High Contracting Parties to the Geneva Convention and the European Union – in the context of their natural obligation to respect and enforce the international law – to cooperate and act according to the following recommendations:

1. PCHR calls upon the international community and the United Nations to use all available means to allow the Palestinian people to enjoy their right to self­determination, through the establishment of the Palestinian State, which was recognized by the UN General Assembly with a vast majority, using all international legal mechanisms, including sanctions to end the occupation of the ; 2. PCHR calls upon the United Nations to provide international protection to Palestinians in the oPt, and to ensure the non­recurrence of aggression against the oPt, especially the Gaza Strip; 3. PCHR calls upon the High Contracting Parties to the Geneva Conventions to compel Israel, as a High Contracting Party to the Conventions, to apply the Conventions in the oPt; 4. PCHR calls upon the Parties to international human rights instruments, especially the Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, to pressurize Israel to comply with their provisions in the oPt, and to compel it to incorporate the human rights situation in the oPt in its reports submitted to the concerned committees; 5. PCHR calls upon the High Contracting Parties to the Geneva Conventions to fulfil their obligations to ensure the application of the Conventions, including extending the scope of their jurisdiction in order to prosecute suspected war criminals, regardless of the nationality of the perpetrator and the place of a crime, to pave the way for prosecuting suspected Israeli war criminals and end the longstanding impunity they have enjoyed; 6. PCHR calls upon States that apply the principle of universal jurisdiction not to surrender to Israeli pressure to limit universal jurisdiction to perpetuate the impunity enjoyed by suspected Israeli war criminals; 7. PCHR calls upon the international community to act in order to stop all Israeli settlement expansion activities in the oPt through imposing sanctions on Israeli settlements and criminalizing trading with them; 8. PCHR calls upon the United Nations to confirm that holding war criminals accountable in the Palestinian­Israeli conflict is a precondition to achieve stability and peace in the regions, and that peace cannot be built on the expense of human rights; 9. PCHR calls upon the UN General Assembly and Human Rights Council to explicitly declare that the Israeli closure policy in Gaza and the annexation wall in the West Bank are illegal, and accordingly refer the two issues to the UN Security Council to impose sanctions on Israel to compel it to remove them; 10. PCHR calls upon the international community, particularly the UN, in light of its failure to the stop the aggression on the Palestinian people, to at least fulfil its obligation to reconstruct the Gaza http://pchrgaza.org/en/?p=8791 20/21 2/16/2017 Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (09 – 15 February 2017) | Palestinian Center for Human Rights Strip after the series of hostilities launched by Israel which directly targeted the civilian infrastructure; 11. PCHR calls upon the United Nations and the European Union to express a clear position towards the annexation wall following the international recognition of the State of Palestine on the 1967 borders, as the annexation wall seizes large parts of the State of Palestine; 12. PCHR calls upon the European Union to activate Article 2 of the EU­Israel Association Agreement, which provides that both sides must respect human rights as a precondition for economic cooperation between the EU states and Israel, and the EU must not ignore Israeli violations and crimes against Palestinian civilians;

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Public Document

For further information please visit our website www.pchrgaza.org or contact PCHR’s office in Gaza City, Gaza Strip by email [email protected] or telephone +972 08 282 4776 – 282 5893.

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