1/21/2016 Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (14­ 20 January 2016) | Palestinian Center for Human Rights Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (14­ 20 January 2016)

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

(14 – 20 January 2016)

Israeli forces continued to use excessive force in the oPt 5 Palestinian civilians were killed in the West Bank and Gaza Strip. A Palestinian civilian was killed and his brother was wounded in a deliberate run­over attack by settlers in the West Bank. 23 Palestinian civilians, including 7 children and a female journalist, were wounded in the West Bank and Gaza Strip.

Israeli forces continued to open fire at border areas along the Gaza Strip border area and a Palestinian civilian was wounded in the east of al­Shuja’iya neighbourhood.

Israeli forces conducted 127 incursions into Palestinian communities in the West Bank and 3 limited ones in the southern Gaza Strip. 77 Palestinian civilians, including 4 children, were arrested. 6 of them were arrested in occupied Jerusalem. Israeli forces continued to target Palestinian fishermen in the Gaza Strip sea. 2 fishermen were arrested and their fishing boat was confiscated.

Jewish majority efforts continued in occupied East Jerusalem. Israeli forces demolished a house in Beit Hanina and obliged a civilian to demolish a livestock barrack on his own. Settlers wrote racist slogans on the walls of a church.

Settlement activities continued in the West Bank. 7 houses and 9 livestock and poultry barracks were demolished, and 47 fruitful trees were cut off. Israeli forces turned the West Bank into cantons and continued to impose the illegal closure on the Gaza Strip for the 9th Dozens of temporary checkpoints were established in the West Bank and other were re­ established to obstruct the movement of Palestinian civilians. 4 Palestinian civilians were arrested at military checkpoints. An elderly woman from the Gaza Strip was detained and prevented from praying in al­Aqsa Mosque.

http://pchrgaza.org/en/?p=7757 1/35 1/21/2016 Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (14­ 20 January 2016) | Palestinian Center for Human Rights

Summary

Israeli violations of international law and international humanitarian law in the oPt continued during the reporting period (14 – 20 January 2016).

Shooting:

Israeli forces have continued to commit crimes, inflicting civilian casualties. They have also continued to use excessive force against Palestinian civilians participating in peaceful protests in the West Bank and Gaza Strip, the majority of whom were youngsters. Occupied East Jerusalem witnessed similar attacks. During the reporting period, Israeli forces killed five Palestinian civilians in the West Bank and Gaza Strip; three of them were in the West Bank and the two others were in the Gaza Strip. Moreover, a Palestinian civilian was killed and his little brother was wounded in a deliberate run­over attack by a settler. Israeli forces also wounded 24 Palestinian civilians, including seven children and a female journalist. 11 of them, including three children, were in the Gaza Strip and the reminaing others were in the West Bank. Concerning the nature of injuries, 11 civilians were hit with live bullets and their shrapnel, 11 others were hit with rubber­coated metal bullets and two were hit with tear gas canisters.

In the West Bank, Israeli forces killed three Palestinian civilians and wounded 13 others, including four children and a female journalist.

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

In their employment of excessive force, Israeli forces killed on 14 January 2016 two Palestinian civilians, north and south of the West Bank. They opened fire at them under the pretext of alleged stabbings against Israeli soldiers.

According to PCHR’s investigations relevant to the first crime, at approximately 08:30, on the abovementioned day, Israeli soldiers stationed at the eastern entrance to Beit Aynoun village, which was closed with an iron gate, shot dead Mo’yed Jabareen (19), from Sa’ir village, east of Hebron.

Concerning the other crime, at approximately 13:15, two military jeeps were coming from Ebal camp, north of Nablus, and heading towards the bypass road leading to “Shavei Shomron” settlement, northwest of the city. When they reached the road linking northern Asirah village and Nablus, Haitham Yassin (34), from the said village, threw a stone towards the two jeeps, pulled a knife and ran towards them. An Israeli soldier immediately shot him dead with 10 bullets.

http://pchrgaza.org/en/?p=7757 2/35 1/21/2016 Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (14­ 20 January 2016) | Palestinian Center for Human Rights In a similar crime, on 16 January 2016, Israeli forces stationed at the southern entrance to Nablus, killed Wesam Qasarwah (21), from Masliya village, southeast of Jenin. According to PCHR’s investigations, Qasarwah stepped out of a taxi after crossing a checkpoint, as he was heading to Ramallah. He then returned towards the checkpoint and threw a knife at the Israeli soldiers from a far distance, but it did not hit anybody. As a result, Israeli soldiers stationed in the watchtower established at the checkpoint shot him dead with 10 bullets.

On 18 January 2016, a settler from “Ariel” settlement run over two brothers, one of whom is a child, from Mas’ha village, west of Salfit, while going back by bicycle from their work in Kufor Qassem village. The settler deliberately hit the bicycle ridden by Khalil (19) and his brother Oday (17). As a result, the bicycle rolled over, its driver was immediately killed and his brother Oday sustained serious wounds. Oday was then taken to “Beilinson” Hospital in Israel to receive the necessary medical treatment.

In the Gaza Strip, Israeli forces killed two Palestinian civilians and wounded 11 others, including three children. 10 of them were wounded during peaceful protests near the border fence between the Gaza Strip and Israel.

On 15 January 2016, dozens of Palestinian youngsters headed towards the border fence between the Gaza Strip and Israel, east of al­Bureij refugee camp, in the central Gaza Strip. They threw stones at Israeli soldiers stationed at the said fence. As a result, Israeli soldiers stationed behind the sand barriers opened fire at them. As a result, two of the protestors were killed and a third was wounded to the left thigh. The killed persons were identified as Mohammed Abu Zayed (18) and Mohammed Qita (26), from Khan Yunis.

In the context of Israeli attacks against Palestinian fishermen in the Gaza Strip Sea, on 14 January 2016, Israeli gunboats opened fire at Palestinian fishing boats, northwest of Beit Lahia, north of the Gaza Strip. A gunboat approached a fishing boat manned by the fishermen Mohammed Ibrahim Na’im al­Najjar (27), from al­Shati’ refugee camp, west of Gaza, and Hosam Mo’een Abu Reyala (18), from Shaikh Redwan neighbourhood in Gaza City. Israeli naval officers arrested the two aforementioned fishermen and confiscated their boat. They were detained until they were released at approximately 20:00, on the same day. However, Israeli forces kept the fishing boat under their custody. Shooting recurred in the same area on 16 January 2016, but neither casualties nor arrests were reported.

On 16 January 2016, Israeli gunboats opened fire heavily around Palestinian fishing boats sailing within three nautical miles off Khan Yunis shore, south of the Gaza Strip. This attack coincided with the fishermen sailing to bring the fishing nets from the sea. A similar shooting attack occurred in the same area on 17 January 2016, but neither casualties nor arrests were reported.

As part of Israeli attacks against Palestinian civilians in the border area, on 16 January 2016, Israeli stationed at the border fence between the Gaza Strip and Israel, east of al­Bureij refugee http://pchrgaza.org/en/?p=7757 3/35 1/21/2016 Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (14­ 20 January 2016) | Palestinian Center for Human Rights camp; and east of al­Salqa valley, east of Deir al­Balah, in the central Gaza Strip, opened fire at farmers who were present in the eastern area. However, neither casualties nor material damage were reported.

Incursions:

During the reporting period, Israeli forces conducted at least 127 military incursions into Palestinian communities in the West Bank and 5 ones in occupied East Jerusalem. During these incursions, Israeli forces arrested at least 77 Palestinian civilians, four children. Six of these civilians were arrested in East Jerusalem. Among the arrested was Nasser al­Nawaj’a, a fieldworker at B’Tselem (The Israeli Information Centre for Human Rights in the Occupied Territories), who was arrested from a residential tent belonging to him in Sousya village, south of Hebron.

In the Gaza Strip, on 19 January 2016, Israeli forces moved about 200 meters to the east of al­ Na’ayma Street, east of Beit Hanoun village, north of the Gaza Strip. They levelled land that were already levelled while opening fire sporadically, but no casualties were reported.

Efforts to create Jewish Majority

In the context of house demolitions and demolition notices issued on grounds of non­ licensing construction works, on 17 January 2016, Mahmoud al­Abasi demolished a barrack belonging to him on his own, in implementation of the Israeli municipality’s decision and to avoid paying a fine of NIS 40,000 and a two­month imprisonment.

On 20 January 2016, Israeli forces accompanied by municipality bulldozers moved into Beit Hanina neighbourhood, north of occupied Jerusalem. The bulldozers demolished a house that was recently built by Heba Abu Asab. Heba intended to move in the house consisting of two rooms, a bathroom and kitchen at the beginning of the next week along with her four children between 14 and eight years old.

As part of restrictions imposed on NGOs in the city, on Thursday, 14 January 2016, Israeli forces raided the Commodore Hotel in occupied East Jerusalem and prevented the press conference “Our Humanity is Stronger than your Ban” from being held there. It should be noted that the Campaign against Banning the Islamic Movement and Freedoms’ Committee emanating from the NGOs’ follow­up committee that was banned by Israeli government called for holding this conference. The Israeli police officers banned the conference and beat up and pushed some of the participants. Moreover, Israeli officers fired tear gas canisters to disperse them. http://pchrgaza.org/en/?p=7757 4/35 1/21/2016 Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (14­ 20 January 2016) | Palestinian Center for Human Rights

On 17 January 2016, Israeli forces raided the Palestinian National Theatre in Shaikh Jarrah area, north of the Old city in East Jerusalem. They banned a cultural meeting on the Jerusalemite cultural reality and perspectives to develop it in light of attempts to distort the original Arab identity of Jerusalem. The meeting was scheduled to be held in cooperation with the Palestinian Minister of Culture, Dr. Ehab Bseiso. The ban was issued by the Minister of Public Security, Gilad Erdan, under the pretext that the meeting was organized under the supervision of the Palestinian National Authority.

In the context of settler attacks against Palestinian civilians and their property, 17 January 2016, settlers wrote racist and inciting slogans on the gates of Dormition Abbey of the Virgin Mary on Mount Zion in occupied East Jerusalem. The Bishops Council adviser in the Holy Lands, Wadi’ Abu Nassar, said in a statement that the slogans included “Slaughtering and killing Christians to send them to hell… pagans to be slaughtered …. Israelis revenge to come”.

Restrictions on movement:

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

The illegal closure of the Gaza Strip, which has been steadily tightened since June 2007 has had a disastrous impact on the humanitarian and economic situation in the Gaza Strip. The Israeli authorities impose measures to undermine the freedom of trade, including the basic needs for the Gaza Strip population and the agricultural and industrial products to be exported. For 9 consecutive years, Israel has tightened the land and naval closure to isolate the Gaza Strip from the West Bank, including occupied Jerusalem, and other countries around the world. This resulted in grave violations of the economic, social and cultural rights and a deterioration of living conditions for 1.8 million people. The Israeli authorities have established Karm Abu Salem (Kerem Shaloum) as the sole crossing for imports and exports in order to exercise its control over the Gaza Strip’s economy. They also aim at imposing a complete ban on the Gaza Strip’s exports. The Israeli closure raised the rate of poverty to 38.8%, 21.1% of which suffer from extreme poverty. Moreover, the rate of unemployment increased up to 44%, which reflects the unprecedented economic deterioration in the Gaza Strip.

Settlement activities:

http://pchrgaza.org/en/?p=7757 5/35 1/21/2016 Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (14­ 20 January 2016) | Palestinian Center for Human Rights On Thursday, 14 January 2016, Israeli forces demolished two residential tents and four agricultural barracks belonging to four Palestinian families. Moreover, they demolished a water tank established and funded by the World Council of Churches in 2013 to provide potable water for Kherbet Yerza.

On the same day, Israeli forces demolished a 140­square­meter under­construction house belonging to the family of Ibrahim Abdul Fattah Abu Maria, from Beit Ommer village, north of Hebron. After demolishing the house, they demolished 100­meter­long cement walls surrounding a 600­square­meter plot belonging to Saleh Mahmoud Ali Nemer Jawabrah, from al­Aroub refugee camp. In addition, the digger cut off 47 trees.

Israeli forces moved into the area overlooking Beit al­Baraka house that was seized by the Israeli authorities and settlers in 2015, east of al­Aroub refugee camp. They demolished a 600­square­ meter barrack belonging to Khaled Samaheen and another 100­square­meter barrack belonging to Farouq Abu Ayash.

On 18 January 2016, Israeli forces demolished two facilities and an abandoned room in al­ Mothallath area at the entrance to Kherbatha al­Mesbah village, southwest of Ramallah and al­ Bireh.

On the same day, Israeli forces demolished a 170­square­meter house, a cement wall and a well belonging to Rashad Abu Ayesh, from al­Luqia village in Israel.

On 15 January 2016, Israeli settlers covered a large rock with black plastic bags and then put it at the intersection of Wadi Qana near the entrance to “Immanuel” settlement, northwest of Salfit. This resulted in a car accident, as Mohammed Ihssan al­Khateib (21), from Dirasitya village, northwest of Salfit, was driving his car when he was surprised to find the rock at the abovementioned intersection. As a result, the car hit the rock, due to which the car broke down.

Details

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

Thursday, 14 January 2016

http://pchrgaza.org/en/?p=7757 6/35 1/21/2016 Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (14­ 20 January 2016) | Palestinian Center for Human Rights

At approximately 01:30, Israeli forces moved into Beit Ummar village, north of Hebron. They stationed in ‘Asidah neighbourhood. They raided and searched a house belonging to Mershed Mohammed Mershed Za’aqiq. They arrested his son Mohammed (19) and later withdrew taking him to an unknown destination.

At approximately 02:00, Israeli forces moved into al­Yamoun village, northwest of Jenin. They raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Basel Faisal Salim Abu al­ Hayjaa’ (22) and handed him a summons to refer to the Israeli Intelligence in Salem Camp, northwest of the city. They also raided and searched a house belonging to Fadi Faisal Mohammed Samoudi (27) and arrested him. Moreover, They raided and searched Mohammed Ahmed Fahmi Freihat (24) and arrested him as well.

Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Qalqilya. They raided and searched a number of houses. They arrested Jihad Lo’ay Mohammed Qar’an (25) and Ihab ‘Abdel Karim Mousa Abu Hamed (26). At approximately 03:50, Israeli forces withdrew taking them to an unknown destination.

At approximately 03:30, Israeli forces moved into Sa’ir village, east of Hebron. They stationed in the eastern area of it and then raided and searched two houses. They arrested Yasser Mustafa Shaladah (24) and Hakam Yasser Shaladah (23) and later withdrew taking them to an unknown destination.

At approximately 04:30, Israeli forces moved into Abu Sneinah neighbourhood in Hebron. They raided and searched a number of houses. They arrested 4 civilians and later withdrew taking them to an unknown destination. The arrested persons were identified as Faris Kamal al­Rajabi (25); ‘Emad Naji al­Atrash (25); Husam Hasan Abu Hussein (23) and Ibrahim Hisham al­Qasrawi (24).

At approximately 07:30, Israeli gunboats stationed off al­Wahah shore, northwest of Beit Lahia in the northern Gaza Strip, opened fire at Palestinian fishing boats. An Israeli gunboat surrounded a fishing boat belonging to Zaki Ibrhaim Na’im al­Najjar from al­Shati’ refugee camp, west of the city, and manned by his brother Mohammed (27) Hussam Mo’in Mohammed Abu Riyalah (18) from al­Sheikh Redwan neighbourhood in Gaza City. The Israeli forces arrested both fishermen and confiscated the boat. They were taken to Ashdod Seaport, where they were detained. At approximately 20:00 on the same day, they were released while their boat was kept in custody.

In new excessive use of forces, Israeli forces killed a Palestinian civilian from Sa’ir village, http://pchrgaza.org/en/?p=7757 7/35 1/21/2016 Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (14­ 20 January 2016) | Palestinian Center for Human Rights east of Hebron. They opened fire at him under the pretext of attempting to stab an Israeli soldier.

According to PCHR’s investigations, at approximately 08:30, Israeli forces stationed at the entrance to the eastern road of Beit ‘Aynoun village shot dead Mo’ayad ‘Awni Mohammed Jabbarin (19) from Sa’ir village, east of Hebron. The aforementioned road is closed with an iron gate and at which Israeli forces established a checkpoint. Israeli forces claimed that the aforementioned civilian attempted to attack an Israeli soldier. The Israeli soldiers kept Jabarin’s corpse on the ground and denied a PRCS ambulance access. An hour later, an Israeli military ambulance transferred the corpse to an unknown destination. In the afternoon, the corpse was handed to the Palestinian Military Liaison.

In another crime of excessive use of force, in the afternoon Israeli forces killed a Palestinian civilian from Northern ‘Asirah village, north of Nablus, for the alleged reason.

According to PCHR’s investigations at approximately 13:15, two Israeli military jeeps were on their way from ‘Eibal camp established on ‘Eibal Mountain, north of Nablus, to the bypass road leading to “Shafi Shamron” settlement, northwest of the city. When the two jeeps were travelling on the road between the northern ‘Asirah village and Nablus, Haitham Mahmoud ‘Abdel Jalil Yasin (34) from the aforementioned village threw a stone at the two jeeps, pulled his knife out and headed towards them. The Israeli soldiers immediately shot dead Haitham hitting him with 10 bullets to the chest, back, abdomen and legs. The Israeli soldiers closed the street for around two hours and informed the Palestinian Military Liaison and the Civil Affairs Deprtment about their intention to hand the corpse. In the afternoon, the corpse was handed at Checkpoint (17), north of Nablus, and taken by a Palestinian ambulance to Rafidia Hospital.

At approximately 13:30, Israeli forces moved into Kafr al­Deek village, west of Salfit. They raided and searched a number of houses. They arrested Majd Fayez Demrah (17) and at approximately 15:00 took him to an unknown destination.

Note: During the aforementioned day, Israeli forces carried out 9 incursions in the following areas without reporting any arrests: Far’on village, south of Tulkarm; Jenin; villages of Beit Kahel, Beit Oula, al­Burj, al­Majd and Tawous in Hebron; ‘Azoun village, east of Qalqilya and Deiristiya village, north of Salfit.

Friday, 15 January 2016

At approximately 03:00, Israeli forces moved into Taqou’a village, southeast of Bethlehem. They raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Mahmoud al­‘Amour and hand his son ‘Atallah (21) a summons to refer to the Israeli Intelligence in “Gosh ‘Etzion” settlement complex, south of the city.

http://pchrgaza.org/en/?p=7757 8/35 1/21/2016 Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (14­ 20 January 2016) | Palestinian Center for Human Rights At approximately 23:00, Israeli forces moved into al­Khader village, south of Bethlehem amidst Israeli heavy firing of live bullets, rubber­coated metal bullets, tear gas canisters and flare bombs. They deployed in the streets of the village and then stationed in al­Hadadin neighbourhood. Meanwhile, dozens of Palestinian young men gathered to throw stones at the Israeli soldiers, who in response opened fire at them. As a result, a 28­year­old civilian sustained a shrapnel wound to the head and was taken to a hospital in Bethlehem to receive medical treatment.

Note: During the aforementioned day, Israeli forces carried out 11 incursions in the following areas without reporting any arrests: Dura; villages of al­Thaeriyah, Ethna, al­ Shyoukh, Deir al­‘Asal, Hadab al­‘Alqah and al­Sorah; Ya’bod village, southwest of Jenin; Jalboun village, east of the city; Tulkarm and ‘Anbta village, east of the city.

Saturday, 16 January 2016

At approximately 01:00, Israeli forces moved into the southern area of Hebron and the surrounding neighborhoods. They raided and searched a number of houses and took their residents out. They arrested 3 civilians for a couple of hours and then released them. The arrested civilians were identified as Mohammed Sa’id Abu Romouz; Wissam Ramadan Abu Romouz and Joudi Mohammed Abu Hadid.

At approximately 02:00, Israeli forces moved into Marah Rabah village, south of Bethlehem. They raided and searched a house belonging to Ahmed al­Sheikh and handed his son Yasser (22) a summons to refer to the Israeli Intelligence in “Gosh ‘Etzion” settlement complex, south of the city.

At approximately 02:30, Israeli forces moved into Za’atarah village, east of Bethlehem. They raided and searched a house belonging to Mousa Thoweib and handed his son Saleh (24) a summons to refer to the Israeli Intelligence in “Gosh ‘Etzion” settlement complex, south of the city.

At approximately 03:00, Israeli forces moved into Bethlehem and stationed on al­Saf Street. They raided and searched a house belonging Mohammed Ibrahim Hassan (34). (24). They handed him a summons to refer to the Israeli Intelligence in Gosh ‘Etzion settlement complex, south of the city.

At approximately 03:30, Israeli forces moved into ‘Aydah refugee camp, north of Bethlehem. They raided and searched a house belonging to Mohammed Ibrahim Joudah (36) and http://pchrgaza.org/en/?p=7757 9/35 1/21/2016 Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (14­ 20 January 2016) | Palestinian Center for Human Rights handed him a summons to refer to the Israeli Intelligence in Gosh ‘Etzion settlement complex, south of the city.

At approximately 07:00, Israeli gunboats stationed off Khan Younis shore in the southern Gaza Strip opened fire in the vicinity of Palestinian fishing boats sailing within 3 nautical miles. The fishermen were pulling out their nets, which were previously thrown in the sea. The shooting continued for an hour and a half. Neither casualties nor arrests were reported.

At approximately 08:00, Israeli gunboats stationed off al­Wahah shore, northwest of Beit Lahia in the northern Gaza Strip, heavily opened fire and fired shells in the vicinity of Palestinian fishing boats and chased them. The boats were sailing within 3 nautical miles and the shooting continued for 30 minutes. As a result, fishermen were terrified and forced to flee to shore. However, neither casualties nor damages were reported.

In another crime of excessive use of force, Israeli forces stationed at Howwarah checkpoint at the southern entrance to Nablus killed a Palestinian civilian. However, they could have used less lethal force and arrested him.

According to PCHR’s investigations at approximately 13:30 on the same day, a Palestinian civilian stepped out of a cab at the intersection, which is around 50 meters away to the south of Howarrah checkpoint, south of Nablus, after crossing the checkpoint to Ramallah. The aforementioned came back to the checkpoint and threw a knife he had towards the Israeli soldiers stationed at the checkpoint from a distance. However, none was wounded. The Israeli soldiers stationed in the military tower at the checkpoint immediately shot him dead. The Israeli soldiers then closed the checkpoint for around half an hour until his corpse was taken by an Israeli ambulance to an unknown destination. At approximately 16:45, his corpse arrived at Rafidia Hospital in Nablus after the Palestinian side received it. The killed civilian was later identified as Wissam Merwan Mohammed Qasarwah (21) from Masliyah village, southeast of Jenin. Following the first medical examination, it was found out that ten bullets hit his neck, face, abdomen, chest, pelvis and right thigh.

At approximately 16:20, Israeli forces stationed along the border fence between the Gaza strip and Israel, east of al­Bureij and east of al­Salqa Valley village, east of Deir al­Balah in the central Gaza Strip opened fire at the farmers in the eastern areas. As a result, the farmers were forced to leave the area out of fear for their lives. However, neither casualties nor damages to the property were reported.

Note: During the aforementioned day, Israeli forces carried out 13 incursions in the following areas without reporting any arrests: Yata; villages of al­Samou’a, Bani Na’im, Sa’ir, Kharas, Sorif and Bani Zaid, northwest of Ramallah; Beit Sira village, southwest of the city; Fasayel village, north of Hebron; Tulkarm; ‘Anbta, east of the city; Kafr Sour village, south of the city and Jalboun village, east of Jenin. http://pchrgaza.org/en/?p=7757 10/35 1/21/2016 Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (14­ 20 January 2016) | Palestinian Center for Human Rights

Sunday, 17 January 2016

At approximately 02:30, Israeli forces moved into the southern area in Hebron and then stationed in Abu Sneinah neighbourhood. They raided and searched a house belonging to Shadi Talal Abu Sneinah (25). They arrested the aforementioned civilian and later withdrew taking him to an unknown destination.

At approximately 04:00, Israeli forces moved into al­Dheishah refugee camp, southwest of Bethlehem. They raided and searched 3 houses and handed 3 former prisoners summonses to refer to the Israeli Intelligence in “Gosh ‘Etzion” settlement complex, south of the city. The summoned persons were identified as Nedal Abu al­‘Akar (47); Ghassan Ibrahim Zawahrah (34) and ‘Adnan Mohammed al­Afandi (39).

At approximately 08:30, Israeli gunboats stationed off Khan Younis shore in the southern Gaza Strip opened fire in the vicinity of Palestinian fishing boats sailing within 3 nautical miles. The fishermen were pulling out their nets, which were previously thrown in the sea. The shooting continued for an hour and a half. Neither casualties nor arrests were reported. At approximately 17:00, Israeli forces backed by military vehicles and fortified armoured personnel carriers moved into Karmah village, east of Dura, southwest of Hebron after it was declared that a female settler was killed in her house in “‘Otniel ” settlement, north east of the village, and the attacker fled away. The Israeli vehicles closed the entrance to the village and prevented people from entering or leaving the village. Israeli forces declared it as a closed military zone after closing all the dirt roads between Karmah and Yata. They started raiding and searching every and each house in the village and even searching some of them for more than twice. The searching continued till at approximately 03:00 on Monday, 18 January 2016. Israeli forces detained all male civilians between 14 and 35 years old, except for residents of the houses in the vicinity of the aforementioned settlement as they were all arrested regardless of their ages. They were all gathered in a yard in the west of the village for around 7 hours and questioned by intelligence officers. At approximately 03:00, all of them were released, but Hazem Na’im Abu Sheikah (29) and his brother Naser (39); Isma’il Yousif al­‘Awawdah (65) and Mohammed Kahlil Abu Sheikah (48) were taken to be questioned inside the aforementioned settlement. They were then released after handing them summonses to refer to the Israeli Intelligence in “Gosh ‘Etzion” settlement complex, south of Bethelhem. On Monday morning, the Israeli soldiers prevented more than 50 workers from leaving the village to their workplaces in Israel. Moreover, around 55 university students and employees were denied access to their universities and workplaces. The Israeli soldiers were still in the village until at approximately 19:00 on Monday. However, the village residents, who are over 1800 civilians, were prevented from leaving or entering into the village as the Israeli forces established a checkpoint after opening the main entrance to the village.

http://pchrgaza.org/en/?p=7757 11/35 1/21/2016 Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (14­ 20 January 2016) | Palestinian Center for Human Rights Note: During the aforementioned day, Israeli forces carried out 13 incursions in the following areas without reporting any arrests: ‘Anbta, east of Tulkarm; Bitounia and Kherbtha al­Mesbah villages, west of Ramallah; al­Jaftalak and Marj Na’ajah villages, north of Jericho; and Yata, Dura and villages of Beit ‘Aynoun, ‘Awa, Taramah and al­Fawwar refugee camp in Hebron

Monday, 18 January 2016

At approximately 01:30, Israeli forces moved into Bal’aa village, northeast Tulkarm. They raided and searched a house belonging to Sate’a Shafe’a Diab Qa’aqourah “I’amir “(25) and arrested.

Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Karf al­Deek village, west of Salfit. They raided and searched a number of houses. They arrested Tariq Amjad ‘Adnan Hmeidan (17) and later withdrew taking him to an unknown destination.

At approximately 02:00, Israeli forces moved into Selwan village, northeast of Ramallah. They raided and searched a number of houses. They arrested 14 civilians and at approximately 05:00 withdrew taking them to an unknown destination. Two vehicles were also confiscated. The arrested persons were identified as Ahmed Mohammed al­Sarraj (20); No’aman Saleh Hamed (19); Ibrahim al­Salhi (20); Majd ‘Abdel Rahman Saleh Hamed (19); Ibrahim Ahmed Hamed (19); ‘Abdel ‘Aziz Mousa Hamed (22); Zakariah Adib Hammad (19); Anwar Menwer Mohammed Sheikiyah (19); Majd Khalaf ‘Ayyad (20); and his brother Haitham (18); Hussein ‘Odah Hamed (22); As’ad Nemer Hamed (20); ‘Abdel Qader Yehia Hammad (19) and Ibrahim al­Natour (20).

Around the same time, Israeli forces moved Yata, south of Hebron. They raided and searched 2 houses belonging to Khaled Mohammed Rashed al­Jondi (38) and Ziad ‘Eqab al­Nawaj’ah (40) and arrested them. A number of the city neighbourhoods witnessed heavy presence of Israeli patrols under the pretext of searching for someone who killed a female settler in “‘Otniel ” settlement established on Palestinian lands confiscated from the southern area of Hebron.

At approximately 02:30, Israeli forces moved into al­Heryah Valley neighbourhood in Hebron. They raided and searched a house belonging to Mo’men ‘abdel Fattah al­Atrash (23). They arrested the aforementioned civilian and later withdrew taking him to an unknown destination.

At approximately 03:30, Israeli forces moved into Sa’ir village, east of Hebron and then http://pchrgaza.org/en/?p=7757 12/35 1/21/2016 Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (14­ 20 January 2016) | Palestinian Center for Human Rights stationed in Hamzah neighbourhood. They raided and searched a house belonging to Mohammed ‘Issa Wadi. It should be mentioned that Mohammed’s sons Khalil (16) was killed by Israeli forces near Beit ‘Aynoun village entrance, east of Hebron on 07 January 2016 under the pretext of attempting to carry out a stab attack against Israeli soldiers while Mahmoud (18) was killed by Israeli forces at the entrance to the western entrance to Sa’ir village while throwing stones at the Israeli soldiers in clashes erupted on 12 November 2015. Israeli forces surveyed the house and took photos of it from the outside. Israeli Intelligence officers threatened the family of demolishing their house. Meanwhile, other Israeli soldiers raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Hamzah ‘Abdullah Jaradat in al­‘Adisah neighbourhood, but no arrests were reported.

At approximately 04:00, Israeli forces moved into al­Samou’a village, south of Hebron, and then stationed in al­Simiya neighbourhood. They raided and searched a house belonging to Islam ‘Ezz al­Deen Mahariq (26). The Israeli soldiers arrested the aforementioned civilian and later withdrew taking him to an unknown destination.

At approximately 10:50, the guards of “Taqou’a” settlement, southeast of Bethlehem, opened fire at ‘Othnman Mohammed Sha’alan (19) under the pretext of stabbing a pregnant Israeli settler. As a result, ‘Othman was hit with several bullets and taken by an Israeli military ambulance to “Hadassah­ ‘Ein Karem” Hospital in West Jerusalem. The Israeli forces imposed a curfew on Taqou’a village. The spokesperson of the Israeli Forces said, “The settler was stabbed in a building in the Industrial Area in Taqou’a village and then taken to the hospital, where her condition was described moderate. The Israeli soldiers opened fire at the attacker and killed him immediately. After this, the soldiers started searching the area.” In a later statement, the spokesperson declared that the attacker did not die but wounded and was taken by an Israeli military ambulance to a hospital. Around an hour later, Israeli forces raided the attacker’s family house in Hendazah village, east of Bethlehem. They arrested his son and took him to an unknown destination.

At approximately 03:00, Israeli forces moved into Marah Rabah village, south of Bethlehem. They raided and searched a house belonging to Mahmoud al­Sheikh and arrested his son Mo’az (23). The arrested person was then taken to an unknown destination.

Note: During the aforementioned day, Israeli forces carried out 23 incursions in the following areas without reporting any arrests: Halhoul, Dura, villages of Kharsa, al­Sora, Raboud, Abu al­‘Asja, Amrish, Karza, Deir Razeh, al­Shajnah Valley, al­Simiya, Beit ‘Amrah, al­Hadab, Beit Na’im and al­Samou’a, and northern neighbourhoods of Yata and Zeif area in Hebron; Salfir; Haris village, north of the city; Bitounia village, west of Ramallah; and Cooper village, northwest of the city.

Tuesday, 19 January 2016 http://pchrgaza.org/en/?p=7757 13/35 1/21/2016 Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (14­ 20 January 2016) | Palestinian Center for Human Rights

At approximately 01:00, Israeli forces moved into Nablus. They raided and searched a number of houses. They arrested ‘anan Wadi’a Abu Zahrah (25) and later withdrew taking him to an unknown destination.

At approximately 02:00, Israeli forces moved into ‘Aqbet Jaber refugee camp, south of Jericho. They raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Ayoub ‘Asi Demrah (35). They arrested the aforementioned civilian and later withdrew taking him to an unknown destination.

Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into ‘Askar refugee camp, northeast of Nablus. They raided and searched a number of houses. They arrested Ahmed ‘Ata Warrad (22) and later withdrew taking him to an unknown destination.

Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Beit ‘Amrah village, southwest of Hebron. They raided and searched a house belonging to Bader ‘Abdullah D’eis (16). They arrested his son Mohammed (16) and later withdrew taking him to an unknown destination. Israeli authorities accused the aforementioned child of carrying out the stab attack against an Israeli female in “‘Otniel” settlement, south of Hebron on 18 January 2016.

At approximately 02:00, Israeli forces moved into ‘Alar village, northeast of Bethlehem. They raided and searched a house belonging to the family of ‘Omer Samir Shalash (24) and arrested him.

Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Beit Ummar village, north of Hebron. They raided and searched two houses. They arrested Arwad Mohammed ‘Awad Badran (18) and Amir Mohammed ‘Abdel Jawad Akhlil (19) and alter withdrew.

Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Ya’bod village, southwest of Jenin. They raided and searched a house belonging to Hatem Soliman Ibrahim ‘Amarnah (72) and the houses of his sons; prisoner Muhanned (28), Feras (37) and Mohammed (41). They also raided and searched a house belonging to Nizar Mahmoud Mohammed ‘Atatrah (53) and the houses of his two sons Majed (24) and Rani (26). They raided and searched a house and factory belonging to Amjad Mahmoud Mohammed ‘Atatrah (35) and the houses of his brothers Eyad (38) and Walid (50). While raiding and searching the houses, Israeli forces distributed a warning statement threatening the village young men of throwing stones and village residents of losing their permits. The Israeli forces arrested Khaled Walid Mahmoud ‘Atatrah (24); ‘Abdullah Ahmed Kamel Herzallah (23); Saif Allah ‘Adnan Ismai’l “Zaid al­ Kilani” and Kamel Mohammed Herzallah (26) and later withdrew taking them to an unknown http://pchrgaza.org/en/?p=7757 14/35 1/21/2016 Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (14­ 20 January 2016) | Palestinian Center for Human Rights destination.

At approximately 02:30, Israeli forces moved into Howarrah village, south of Nablus. They raided and searched a number of houses. They arrested Eyad Nayef Mahmoud ‘Odah (23) and later withdrew taking him to an unknown destination.

At approximately 03:00, Israeli forces moved into Northern ‘Asirah village, north of Nablus. They raided and searched a number of houses. They arrested Mohammed ‘Ali Hussein Yasin (25) and later withdrew taking him to an unknown destination.

Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Bita village, southeast of Nablus. They raided and searched a number of houses. They arrested Ihab Jihad Shaltaf (21) and later withdrew taking him to an unknown destination.

At approximately 07:00, Israeli forces moved 150 meters into al­Qararah village to the east of Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip. They levelled lands until the afternoon and fired smoke grenades. They later redeployed along the border fence.

At approximately 16:30, Israeli forces backed by 6 tanks, two bulldozers and two jeeps moved 200 meters into al­Ahmar area, east of al­Na’aymah Street, east of Beit Hanoun in the northern Gaza Strip. They levelled vacant lands that were previously levelled amidst sporadic shooting. They redeployed along the border fence at approximately 18:00 on the same day, and neither damages nor casualties were reported.

At approximately 18:15, Shifa Medical Complex received Khaled Saleh Ibrahim Lubad (31) from Jabalia in the northern Gaza Strip as he was hit with bullets to both legs by Israeli forces near the border fence between Israel and the Gaza Strip near “al­Mentar”, east of al­ Sheja’ayah, east of Gaza City. Following medical tests and x­rays, it was found out that Lubad sustained fractures in the left leg and his wounds were moderate. He was then transferred to the Indonesian Hospital in Jabalia, where he received medical treatment and his leg was splined. The doctors said that he needs surgery in his fractured leg. It should be mentioned that Lubad suffers mental disorders, and he is missing from time to time.

Note: During the aforementioned day, Israeli forces carried out 8 incursions in the following areas without reporting any arrests: Qalqilya; Jayous village, northeast of the city; Beit Rima village, northwest of Ramallah; Yata; and villages of Ethna, Beit Kahel, al­Hadab and al­‘Aroub refugee camp in Hebron.

http://pchrgaza.org/en/?p=7757 15/35 1/21/2016 Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (14­ 20 January 2016) | Palestinian Center for Human Rights

Wednesday, 20 January 2016

At approximately 00:30, Israeli forces moved into Zenabah Suburb, east of Tulkarm. They patrolled the suburb streets when members of Palestinian armed groups opened fire at them. Therefore, clashes broke out between the Palestinian armed members and Israeli soldiers, who called for backups from Jbarah checkpoint, south of Tulkarm and the area of “Sana’ouz” gate, west of the city. Israeli forces later declared Thanabah area as a closed military zone and informed the Paelstinian side about their intention to conduct a military operation until the morning. Meanwhile, Israeli military vehicles deployed throughout the suburb and started calling through loudspeakers “none is allowed to leave their house”. They started raiding and searching all over the suburb, especially in the old area. Israeli forces arrested 8 civilians and later withdrew taking them to an unknown destination. The arrested persons were identified as Thaer Mahmoud Salim ‘Assaf (27); Kamel Kamal Kamel Ahmed (30), who are both officers in the National Security Services; Feras Mohammed Mahmoud Melhem (38); Mo’atsem Kamal Kamel Ahmed (22); Mo’men Ahmed Hussein ‘Abdullah Rmeilat (24); Amjad Naser Mahmoud Khreishah (33); ‘Oday Taysir Husni ‘Abdullah Rmeilat (25) and Ahmed Jamal Qandil (30)

At approximately 01:00, Israeli forces moved into al­Fawar refugee camp, south fo Hebron. They stationed near the UNRWA Distribution Centre. They raided and searched a house belonging Qosay Ayman al­Titi (22). They arrested the aforementioned civilian and later withdrew taking him to an unknown destination.

Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Sorif village, northwest of Hebron. They raided and searched a house belonging to ‘Ali Mohammed al­Qadi. They arrested the aforementioned civilian and later withdrew taking him to an unknown destination.

At approximately 01:30, Israeli forces moved into Kafr al­Deek, west of Salfit. They raided and searched a number of houses. They arrested Saleh Khader Saleh Hmeidan (22) and later withdrew taking him to an unknown destination.

Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Tarousah, southwest of Dura, southwest of Hebron. They raided and searched a house belonging to Ra’ed Mahmoud Jbrahah Masalmah (37), who was arrested by the Israeli authorities after stabbing an Israeli settler on 19 November 2015. They took photos and measures of the house from the inside. The Israeli soldiers handed the family a written notice to demolish the house and gave them until 24 January 2016 to challenge the decision.

http://pchrgaza.org/en/?p=7757 16/35 1/21/2016 Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (14­ 20 January 2016) | Palestinian Center for Human Rights At approximately 02:00, Israeli forces moved into Sa’ir village, east of Hebron. They raided and searched two houses. They arrested Mohammed Shehdah Jabrin (16) and Majd Sultan Jabarin (18) and later withdrew taking them to an unknown destination.

At approximately 03:00, Israeli forces moved into Sousia village, south of Yata, south of Hebron. They raided and searched a residential tent belonging to Naser Mohammed al­ Nawaj’ah (35), a fieldworker at “B’tselem”­ The Israeli Information Centre for Human Rights. They arrested him and took him to an unknown destination.

At approximately 07:30, Israeli forces moved 150 meters into the east of al­Qararah village to the east of Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip. They continued to level and dig the lands they started levelling the day before. Israeli forces later replayed along the border fence.

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

West Bank:

On Friday, 15 January 2016, dozens of Palestinian young men gathered at the southern entrance of al­Jalazoun refugee camp, north of Ramallah, near an UNRWA school for boys, 300 meters away from the fence of “Beit­Eil” settlement, to organize a peaceful demonstration in protest against the Israeli attacks in the oPt. The demonstrators threw stones at the settlement fence; due to which, Israeli forces stationed in the area fired live bullets, rubber­coated metal bullets, sound bombs and tear gas canisters at the protesters and then chased them into the camp. As a result, three children were wounded; two of whom were hit with live bullets while the third one was hit with a rubber­coated metal bullet to the back.

On Friday afternoon, dozens of young men gathered in the vicinity of Ofer Prison, west of Ramallah, to organize a demonstration against the Israeli policies and settler attacks. After the protesters then made their way to the prison gate, so the Israeli forces closed the gate and deployed in the area. The protesters set fire to rubber tires and threw stones and empty bottles at the Israeli soldiers, who immediately fired live bullets, rubber­coated metal bullets, sound bombs and tear gas canisters at the protesters. As a result, a 34­year­old civilian was hit with a rubber­coated metal bullet to the back.

http://pchrgaza.org/en/?p=7757 17/35 1/21/2016 Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (14­ 20 January 2016) | Palestinian Center for Human Rights Following the Friday prayer, dozens of young men gathered near al­Moftah area in ‘Ayda refugee camp, north of Bethlehem, and then headed to Bilal Bin Rabah mosque. The protesters threw stones and Molotov Cocktail at a military watchtower established in the area. Due to this, Israeli soldiers immediately fired live bullets, rubber­coated metal bullets and tear gas canisters at the protesters. As a result, 3 civilians were hit with rubber­coated metal bullets, while a female journalist, Safiya Omar (27), was hit with a Two­Two bullet. At approximately 14:00 on Friday, dozens of Palestinian young men gathered in al­Khader village, south of Bethlehem, and threw stones at Israeli vehicles stationed in the area. After that, Israeli soldiers fired rubber­coated metal bullets at the protesters and a PRCS ambulance. As a result, the ambulance windshield was broken, while the paramedics sustained shrapnel wounds. Director of Emergency Department at the PRCS, Mohammed ‘Awad, said to a PCHR fieldworker that Israeli forces fired rubber­coated metal bullets at the windshield of the ambulance stationed at al­Khader area to offer medical treatment for the wounded persons. Due to this, the ambulance windshield was broken, while the paramedics sustained shrapnel wounds. The abovementioned wounded paramedics were identified as Loay al­Shareef and Fadi Ja’afrah, both of whom were wounded to the face. ‘Awad added that medical staffs offered first aid to the wounded and then took them to Beit Jala Hospital to receive medical treatment.

Gaza Strip:

At approximately 13:30 on Friday, 08 January 2016, dozens of young men headed to the border fence between the Gaza Strip and Israel, east of al­Shuja’iyah, east of Gaza. A number of protesters approached the fence, set fire to rubber tires and threw stones at the Israeli forces stationed along the fence. Due to this, Israeli forces sporadically fired live bullets and tear gas canisters at the protesters. As a result, 3 civilians, including a child, were wounded. Two of them were hit with live bullets, while the child was sustained a bullet shrapnel wound to the head.

At approximately 14:00 on Friday, dozens of Palestinian young men headed to the border fence between the Gaza Strip and Israel, east of al­Bureij refugee camp in the centre of the Gaza Strip. The protesters threw stones at the soldiers stationed behind the sand barriers along the fence, due to which, the Israeli soldiers opened fire at them. As a result, three protesters were wounded; one of whom was hit with a live bullet to the right thigh. The abovementioned wounded were identified as:

Mohammed ‘Adel Mohammed Abu Zayed (18), from al­Bureij, who was hit with a live bullet to the neck and immediately died.

Mohammed Majdi ‘Azmi Qitah (26), from Khan Yunis, who was hit with a live bullet to the abdomen and underwent a surgery in al­Aqsa Hospital in Deir al­Balah. It should be mentioned that doctors’ efforts to save his life failed and medical sources declared his death an hour later.

Around the same time, Israeli forces stationed at Beit Hanoun (Erez) crossing, northwest of http://pchrgaza.org/en/?p=7757 18/35 1/21/2016 Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (14­ 20 January 2016) | Palestinian Center for Human Rights Beit Hanoun, north of the Gaza Strip, fired live bullets, rubber­coated metal bullets and tear gas canisters at dozens of young men, who were on the road between the Palestinian and Israeli sides of the crossing. The protesters threw stones at the soldiers in protest at the Israeli attacks against the Palestinian civilians in Jerusalem and the West Bank. As a result of the clashes which continued until 17:30, six civilians, including two children, were wounded. Four of them were hit with rubber­coated metal bullets, while the two others were directly hit with tear gas canisters throughout their bodies.

Demonstrations against the annexation wall and settlement activities

Following the Friday prayer on 08 January 2015, in spite of the bad weather, dozens of Palestinian civilians and Israeli and international human rights defenders organized a demonstration in protest at the Israeli settlement activities in Bil’in and Ni’lin villages, west of Ramallah. The Israeli forces used force to disperse the protesters by firing live bullets, rubber­coated metal bullets, tear gas canisters and sound bombs at the protesters and chased them into agricultural fields. As a result, many civilians suffered tear gas inhalation, one of whom was identified as Manal Abed al­Hafiz Tamimi (42). Manal was then taken to Yasir ‘Arafat Hospital in Salfit to receive medical treatment.

At approximately 15:30 on Friday, Palestinian civilians and Israeli and international human rights defenders organized a protest in the centre of Kufor Qaddoum village, northeast of Qalqilia, and made their way 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, Israeli forces fired live bullets, rubber­coated metal bullets, tear gas canisters and sound bombs at the protesters in response. As a result, a 17­year­old civilian was hit with a live bullet to the right leg.

Note: PCHR keeps the names of the injured persons in the aforementioned demonstrations.

Rubber­coated metal bullets are lethally if they hit the head of victim from a close range.

3. Continued closure of the oPt

http://pchrgaza.org/en/?p=7757 19/35 1/21/2016 Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (14­ 20 January 2016) | Palestinian Center for Human Rights 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.

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

Imports http://pchrgaza.org/en/?p=7757 20/35 1/21/2016 Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (14­ 20 January 2016) | Palestinian Center for Human Rights Date Category Amount Tons Number Liters Various goods 3196.3 Humanitarian aid 20930 Cooking gas 222,720 Benzene 187,011

12 January Diesel 467,999

Industrial fuel 303,000

Construction aggregates 16120 Cement 2920 Construction steel 330 Various goods 3421 Humanitarian aid 21096 Cooking gas 248,920 Benzene 187,000 475,990 13 January Diesel 306,019 Industrial fuel

Construction aggregates 15840 Cement 3600 Construction steel 30 Various goods 2811.8 14 January Humanitarian aid 17933 Cooking gas 224,300

Benzene 257,007 Diesel 366,009 Industrial fuel 472,615

Construction aggregates 13760 Cement 3533 Various goods 4559 Humanitarian aid 22818 Cooking gas 133,810 Benzene 186,990 Diesel 578,997

Diesel of UNRWA 76,000 http://pchrgaza.org/en/?p=7757 21/35 1/21/2016 Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (14­ 20 January 2016) | Palestinian Center for Human Rights 17 January Industrial fuel 490,972 Construction aggregates 16160 Cement 4579 Construction steel 690 Various goods 3281.5 Humanitarian aid 24170 Cooking gas 187,930 Benzene 149,000 598,008 Diesel 38,000 18 January Diesel of UNRWA 297,000 Industrial fuel

Construction aggregates 16640 Cement 5360 Construction steel 480

Exports:

On Tuesday, 12 January 2016, Israeli forces allowed the exportation of 19 tons of eggplants; 21.5 tons of cucumbers; 8.5 tons of palms; 4 tons of peppers; 19 tons of cabbages; 10 tons of sweet peppers; 5.536 tons of strawberries; 112.8 tons of tomatoes; 5 tons of squash; 2 tons of cherry tomatoes; 7.7 tons of sweet potatoes and 2 tons of fish. On Wednesday, 13 January 2016, Israeli forces allowed the exportation of 160 tons of scrap. On Thursday, 14 January 2016, Israeli forces allowed the exportation of 14 tons of eggplants; 23 tons of cucumbers; 5 tons of palms; 8 tons of peppers; 17 tons of cabbages; 7 tons of sweet peppers; 224 tons of tomatoes and 2 tons of squash. On Sunday, 17 January 2016, Israeli forces allowed the exportation of 3 truckloads of strawberries and 31 truckloads of vegetables. On Monday, 18 January 2016, Israeli forces allowed the exportation of 16 tons of furniture; 160 tons of scrap and a ton of fish.

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 BeitHanoun (Erez) crossing

http://pchrgaza.org/en/?p=7757 22/35 1/21/2016 Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (14­ 20 January 2016) | Palestinian Center for Human Rights 13­19 January 2016

13 14 15 16 17 18 19 Category January January January January January January January Patients 58 42 7 – 95 70 71 Companions 51 38 8 – 94 66 67 Personal 63 147 53 – 208 105 80 needs Families – – – – – 77 – of prisoners

Arabs from 9 3 7 – 4 1 9 Israel

Diplomats 4 5 – – – – – International – – – – – – – journalists International 38 59 6 – 8 20 26 workers Travelers 27 35 1 – 28 13 24 abroad

Business 419 474 2 – 507 344 288 people Business – – – – – – – meetings Security 15 13 – – 13 10 16 interviews VIPs – 1 1 – 2 – – Ambulances 2 4 – – 4 2 2 to Israel

Patients’ 1 4 – – 4 2 2 Companions

Notes:

On Friday, 15 January 2016, Israeli authorities allowed 199 civilians from the Gaza Strip to perform prayers in al­Aqsa Mosque in Occupied Jerusalem. On 14 January 2016, Israeli authorities allowed 6 persons to renew his permit. http://pchrgaza.org/en/?p=7757 23/35 1/21/2016 Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (14­ 20 January 2016) | Palestinian Center for Human Rights On Sunday, 17 January 2016, Israeli authorities allowed 3 persons to renew his permit. On Tuesday, 19January 2016, Israeli authorities allowed 1 person to renew his permit. On Monday, 18 January 2016, Israeli authorities allowed 3 persons, who work in the Civil Affairs Department to attend a meeting in Israel. On 13 January 2016, Israeli authorities allowed 13 Christians to travel to Bethlehem to celebrate the Christmas. On Thursday, 14 January 2016, Israeli authorities allowed 36 Christians to travel to Bethlehem to celebrate the Christmas. On Friday, 15 January 2016, Israeli authorities allowed 24 Christians to travel to Bethlehem to celebrate the Christmas. On Sunday, 17 January 2016, Israeli authorities allowed 75 Christians to travel to Bethlehem to celebrate the Christmas. On Monday, 18 January 2016, Israeli authorities allowed 27 Christians to travel to Bethlehem to celebrate the Christmas. On Tuesday, 18 January 2016, Israeli authorities allowed 26 Christians to travel to Bethlehem to celebrate the Christmas. On Tuesday, 19 January 2016, Israeli authorities allowed 16 students, who were trapped in the Gaza Strip, to travel abroad to complete their studying in the foreign and Arab Universities.

Israeli forces arrest an elderly woman in East Jerusalem and prevent her from performing prayers in al­Aqsa Mosque

At approximately 09:00 on Friday, 15 January 2016, Israeli police officers detained an elderly woman, Mazyonah Mohammed ‘Awaad al­Sha’er (64) from al­Salam neighborhood, south of Rafah, in front of al­‘Amood Gate in occupied East Jerusalem. Mazyona went with persons from the Gaza Strip to perform prayer in al­Aqsa Mosque after obtaining permits from the Israeli authorities. According to Mazyona’s husband, Ramadan Salman ‘Awaad al­ Sha’ir, the Israeli police detained his wife until 17:00 in a police station near al­Aqsa Mosque, and she was subjected to naked search. Moreover, the Israeli soldiers confiscated NIS 1800 and $100 from her and only left NIS 200 with her. They then questioned her about intending to give this money to “al­Morabetoun and al­Morabetat” in al­Aqsa Mosque and asked her about where her sons work.

West Bank

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

Hebron: Israeli forces established 49 checkpoints all over the city. On Thursday, 14 http://pchrgaza.org/en/?p=7757 24/35 1/21/2016 Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (14­ 20 January 2016) | Palestinian Center for Human Rights January 2016, Israeli forces established six checkpoints at the entrances to Bani Na’im village; Sa’ir village; Beit ‘Aynoun village; and al­Fawar and al­‘Aroub refugee camps, north and south of Hebron and the southern entrance to Hebron.

On Friday, 15 January 2016, Israeli forces established seven checkpoints at the entrances to Bani Na’eim village; Beit ‘Aynoun village; Sa’ir village; Beit Ummar village; al­Fawar and al­‘Aroub refugee camps, north and south of Hebron and the southern entrance to Hebron.

On Saturday, 16 January 2016, Israeli forces established five checkpoints at the entrances to Bani Na’eim village; Beit ‘Aynoun village; Sa’ir village; al­‘Aroub refugee camp, north of Hebron and the southern entrance to Hebron.

On Sunday, 17 January 2016, Israeli forces established five checkpoints at the entrances to Sa’ir village; al­Fawar and al­‘Aroub refugee camps, north and south of Hebron and the northern and southern entrances to Hebron.

On Monday, 18 January 2016, Israeli forces established 12 checkpoints at the entrances to Karma village; ‘Abdo village; Tarama village; Amrish village; al­Dahirya village; Samou’a village; al­Fawar and al­‘Aroub refugee camps, north and south of Hebron; the southern entrance to Hebron (Harayeq); the southern entrance to Hebron (al­Fahes); the northern entrance to Yatta and the eastern entrance to Dura.

On Tuesday, 19 January 2016, Israeli forces established seven checkpoints at the entrances to Beit Ummer village; al­Fawar and al­‘Aroub refugee camps, north and south of Hebron; the southern entrance to Hebron (Haraiq); the southern entrance to Hebron (al­Fahes); and the intersection of Karma and ‘Abdo villages.

On Wednesday, 20 January 2016, Israeli forces established seven checkpoints at the entrances to al­Dahirya village; al­Fawar and al­‘Aroub refugee camps, north and south of Hebron; the southern entrance to Hebron (al­Harayeq); the southern entrance to Hebron (al­Fahes); and the intersection of Dir Samit and al­Moreq villages.

Ramallah and al­Bireh: Israeli forces established 8 checkpoints all over the city. On Thursday, 14 January 2016, Israeli forces established 3 checkpoints at the entrances to ‘Ain Sinaa village; Senjil village, north of Ramallah; and under the bridge of Yabroud village, northeast of Ramallah.

On Friday, 15 January 2016, Israeli forces established 3 checkpoints at the entrances to al­Nabi Saleh village, northwest of Ramallah; Senjil village, north of Ramallah; and under the bridge of Yabroud village, northeast of Ramallah.

On Saturday, 16 January 2016, Israeli forces established two checkpoints at the intersection of Beit ‘Our al­Foqa village, southwest of Ramallah; and at the eastern entrance to al­Taiba village, northeast of Ramallah.

Jericho: At approximately 09:30 on Thursday, 14 January 2016, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the entrance to al­Jeftalik village, north of Jericho. http://pchrgaza.org/en/?p=7757 25/35 1/21/2016 Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (14­ 20 January 2016) | Palestinian Center for Human Rights

Qalqilia: On Thursday, 14 January 2016, Israeli forces established four checkpoints at the entrances to ‘Azoun village, east of Qalqilia; ‘Ezbit al­Tabib village; between ‘Azoun and Jayous villages, northeast of Qalqilia; and at the eastern entrance to Qalqilia.

On Monday, 18 January 2016, Israeli forces established 3 checkpoints at the entrance to ‘Azoun village, east of Qalqilia; the eastern entrance to Qalqilia; and the intersection of Jeet village, northeast of Qalqilia.

Tulkarm: At approximately 08:30 on Thursday, 14 January 2016, Israeli forces stationed at ‘Enab checkpoint established on the main road between Tulkarm and Nablus, east of Tulkarm, tightened their arbitrary restrictions against Palestinian civilians and obstructed their movement.

At approximately 09:30, Israeli forces established a checkpoint on the main road between Tulkarm and Nablus, near the intersection of Beit Lid village, east of Tulkarm.

At approximately 11:00 on Saturday, Israeli forces retightened their restrictions.

At approximately 15:30 on Friday, 14 January 2016, Israeli forces established a checkpoint on the main road between Tulkarm and Nablus near the intersection of Bazaria village, east of Tulkarm. At approximately 15:00 on Saturday, 16 January 2016, Israeli forces established the same checkpoint at the entrance of Qufin village, north of Tulkarm.

Jenin: At approximately 19:00 on Saturday, 16 January 2016, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the entrance of Deir Abu Da’ief village, southeast of Jenin.

Note: all the above­mentioned checkpoints were removed later and no arrests were reported.

Arrests at military checkpoints:

At approximately 15:00 on Thursday, Israeli forces stationed at Beit ‘Aynoun checkpoint, east of Hebron, which is the sole outlet to Sa’ir village, arrested Mos’ab Salah Shalalda (20) after stopping him at the checkpoint. At approximately 20:00 on Thursday, Israeli forces stationed at the entrance of Bani Na’eim village, east of Hebron, arrested Kamel Mohammed al­Jondi (25) from Yatta village, south of Hebron, after opening fire at his private car. The Israeli forces claimed that Kamal did not obey the soldiers’ orders, so they chased him and stopped his car and. He was then taken to an unknown destination. http://pchrgaza.org/en/?p=7757 26/35 1/21/2016 Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (14­ 20 January 2016) | Palestinian Center for Human Rights At approximately 10:00 on Friday, 15 January 2016, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the eastern entrance of Ya’bud village, southwest of Jenin. The soldiers stopped the vehicles, which enter and leave the village, and checked the passengers’ IDs. While Feras Hatem Suliman ‘Amarna (37) was crossing the checkpoint, the Israeli soldiers arrested him and then took him to an unknown destination. At approximately 16:30 on Monday, 18 January 2016, Israeli forces stationed at the south­ western entrance to Bitta village, branching from Ramallah­ Nablus street, arrested Zakaria Maher Abed al­Hamied Hamiyel (19) from Bitta village, southeast of Nablus. The Israeli forces claimed that Zakaria had a knife and attempted to carry out a stabbing attack against the soldiers. Thus, Zakaria was arrested and taken to an unknown destination.

4. 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:

Incursions and arrests

At approximately 09:30 on Thursday, 14 January 2016, Israeli forces raided the Commodore Hotel in occupied East Jerusalem and prevented the press conference “Our Humanity is Stronger than your Ban” from being held there. It should be noted that the Campaign against Banning the Islamic Movement and Freedoms’ Committee emanating from the NGOs’ follow­up committee that was banned by Israeli government called for holding this conference. The Israeli police officers banned the conference and beat up and pushed some of the participants. Moreover, Israeli officers fired tear gas canisters to disperse them. The conference was scheduled to be held at 10:00 in regards to NGOs lately banned by the Israeli government. The conference was held in cooperation with Mohammed Baraka, Chairman of the follow­up committee, lawyer Omer Khamaysi, Director of Mezan Institution for Human Rights, and directors of other banned NGOs. However, Israeli forces raided the abovementioned hotel, attacked journalists and the participants to disperse them and then arrested Khair Baker al­Shimi (64).

At approximately 19:00, on the same day, Israeli forces moved into Ein al­Louza neighbourhood in Silwan village, south of the Old City in East Jerusalem, under the pretext of pursuing stone throwers. They raided a house belonging to the family of Wasim Ahmed al­Abasi twice, damaged its contents and beat up its owner. They then raided a house belonging to the family of Mousa Abu Tayeh and threatened him that his commercial store would be demolished if stones continued to be thrown from around his house. After that, Israeli forces raided a house belonging to the family of Mohammed Ayman Elayan (23) in al­ Abasiya neighbourhood. They arrested him and took him to an unknown destination.

http://pchrgaza.org/en/?p=7757 27/35 1/21/2016 Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (14­ 20 January 2016) | Palestinian Center for Human Rights At approximately 21:00 on Friday, 17 January 2016, Israeli forces moved into Abu Dees village, east of occupied Jerusalem. They stationed near al­Jabal intersection in the village and then raided a number of houses belonging to Bader family. Moreover, they searched the houses, attacked two members from the said family and arrested two others. Nader Yunis said to PCHR’s fieldworker that Israeli forces surrounded his family house on Friday afternoon. They then fired sound bombs at the door and asked everyone to go out. After that, they raided the house and damaged its contents. It should be noted that Israeli forces at the same time raided an abandoned house belonging to the same family. They damaged a well’s cover and started digging the yard using metal detectors and sniffer dogs. He added that Israeli forces eventually arrested his brother Wa’el (22). This attack coincided also with another raid on a house belonging to the family of Nabeel Bader. The same scenario was repeated, after which Abdul Rahman Nabeel Bader (25).

On Sunday, 17 January 2016, Israeli forces raided the Palestinian National Theatre in Shaikh Jarrah area, north of the Old city in East Jerusalem. They banned a cultural meeting on the Jerusalemite cultural reality and perspectives to develop it in light of attempts to distort the original Arab identity of Jerusalem. The meeting was scheduled to be held in cooperation with the Palestinian Minister of Culture, Dr. Ehab Bseiso. The ban was issued by the Minister of Public Security, Gilad Erdan, under the pretext that the meeting was organized under the supervision of the Palestinian National Authority. Gilad’s order reads the following, “According to article 3 (A) of the 1994 Interim Agreement on the West Bank and the Gaza Strip’s Law (cessation of activity), the meeting was banned in Jerusalem or elsewhere in the city”.

At approximately 01:00, on Monday, 18 January 2016, Israeli forces raided a house belonging to the family of Nasser Malhas, in Hetta Gate neighbourhood, in the Old City in East Jerusalem. They searched the house and then arrested his son Hamza (23).

At approximately 18:00, on the same day, Israeli forces arrested Taha Omran Abu Khdair (18), from in front of his house in Shu’fat village, north of occupied Jerusalem, under the pretext of having a knife with him. Abu Khdair was attacked, detained and questioned for hours, after which, it was found out that he was holding a bread knife and heading to the family’s divan where his grandmother morning house was established.

House demolitions and demolition notices

At approximately 16:00 on Sunday, 17 January 2016, Mahmoud al­Abasi demolished a barrack belonging to him on his own, in implementation of the Israeli municipality’s decision and to avoid paying a fine of NIS 40,000 and a two­month imprisonment. Yusef al­Abasi said that his brother was obliged to demolish a barrack used for livestock upon a decision from the Israeli municipality that gave him a period until the end of the month otherwise; he would pay a fine and be imprisoned. He added that the 30­square­meter barrack was http://pchrgaza.org/en/?p=7757 28/35 1/21/2016 Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (14­ 20 January 2016) | Palestinian Center for Human Rights established 6 months ago.

In the early morning on Wednesday, 20 January 2016, Israeli forces accompanied by municipality bulldozers moved into Beit Hanina neighbourhood, north of occupied Jerusalem. The bulldozers demolished a house that was recently built by Heba Abu Asab. Heba intended to move in the house consisting of two rooms, a bathroom and kitchen at the beginning of the next week along with her four children between 14 and eight years old. It should be noted that the Israeli municipality court obliged Abu Asab by the end of 2014 to demolish her house on her own and imposed on her NIS 20,000 as a fine that she has been paying so far under the pretext of building without a construction license.

Settler attacks

On Sunday early morning, 17 January 2016, settlers wrote racist and inciting slogans on the gates of Dormition Abbey of the Virgin Mary on Mount Zion in occupied East Jerusalem. The Bishops Council adviser in the Holy Lands, Wadi’ Abu Nassar, said in a statement that the monks in the abbey heard some noise outside at approximately 02:00. In the morning, they saw racist and inciting slogans on the gates of the church. He added that the slogans, including “Slaughtering and killing Christians to send them to hell… pagans to be slaughtered …. Israelis revenge to come”.

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

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

At approximately 06:00 on Thursday, 14 January 2016, Israeli forces accompanied by a Civil Administration vehicle and two bulldozers moved into Kherbet Aynoun in the northern Jordan Valley, east of Tubas. The bulldozers demolished two residential tents and four agricultural barracks belonging to four Palestinian families. Moreover, they demolished a water tank established and funded by the World Council of Churches in 2013 to provide potable water for Kherbet Yerza. The demolition was as follows:

1. A 300­square­meter residential tent and a 300­square­meter barrack belonging to Mousa Khaled Mahmoud Daraghma; 2. A 200­square­meter barrack used for livestock belonging to Adnan Mostafa Daraghma; 3. A 300­square­meter barrack used as fodders’ storehouse belonging to Mahmoud Adeeb Mahmoud Maslamani; 4. A 400­square­meter barrack used for livestock belonging to Mohammed Mahmoud Ibrahim Daraghma; and 5. A 200­cubic­meter water tank funded by the World Council of Churches. http://pchrgaza.org/en/?p=7757 29/35 1/21/2016 Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (14­ 20 January 2016) | Palestinian Center for Human Rights

At approximately 09:30, on the same day, Israeli forces accompanied by a Civil Administration vehicle and a digger moved into the area overlooking al­Aroub refugee camp, north of Hebron. They deployed in the area, while the digger started demolishing a 140­ square­meter under­construction house belonging to the family of Ibrahim Abdul Fattah Abu Maria, from Beit Ommer village, north of Hebron. Abu Maria started building the house in the beginning of 2015 and it cost him about NIS 80,000. The demolition order was issued under the pretext that Abu Maria was notified previously by the Civil Administration for building without a license in area (C) according to Oslo Accords. After demolishing the house, the digger demolished 100­meter­long cement walls surrounding a 600­square­ meter plot belonging to Saleh Mahmoud Ali Nemer Jawabrah, from al­Aroub refugee camp. In addition, the digger cut off 47 trees, including 24 olive trees, 10 grape trees, three fig trees and 10 almond trees. The digger also made a hole in a well inside that plot. It should be noted that the Israeli authorities had delivered a confiscation order over to the landlord in 2013 to vacate the land.

At approximately 11:00, Israeli forces moved into the area overlooking Beit al­Baraka house that was seized by the Israeli authorities and settlers in 2015, east of al­Aroub refugee camp. They stationed on the side of the bypass road (60), while the digger demolished the following:

1. A 600­square­meter barrack belonging to Khaled Mohammed Sulaiman Samaheen. It was used for livestock and contained a 100­square­meter room for labourers. It cost about NIS 250. The Israeli authorities issued a demolition notice against this barrack in 2005; and 2. A 100­square­meter barrack belonging to Farouq Hassan Abu Ayyash, from Beit Ommer village. It cost him about NIS 120. It was used for livestock as well. The Israeli authorities issued a demolition notice against this barrack in 2005;

At approximately 10:00, on Sunday, 17 January 2016, Israeli forces accompanied by two Civil Administration vehicles and a truck mounted crane moved into She’b Qanous area, east of Beit Ommer village, north of Hebron. They stationed around two under­construction houses belonging to the brothers Essa and Anwar Mahmoud Hassan al­Alami. It should be noted that the two houses were previously notified to halt construction works. The Israeli soldiers confiscated a container in which construction tools and a small concrete mixer were inside under the pretext that it was present in an area where construction is banned. The Civil Administration officers left a sheet showing the confiscated items for referring to the competent authorities at “Gosh Etzion” settlement, south of Bethlehem.

At approximately 01:30 on Monday, 18 January 2016, Israeli forces demolished two facilities and an abandoned room in al­Mothallath area at the entrance to Kherbatha al­Mesbah village, southwest of Ramallah and al­Bireh. According to information gained by PCHR’s fieldworker, Israeli forces declared the area as a military zone, where two bulldozers started demolition works. They then withdrew at approximately 03:30. It should be noted that Israeli forces had distributed two weeks ago demolition notices under the pretext of building in area http://pchrgaza.org/en/?p=7757 30/35 1/21/2016 Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (14­ 20 January 2016) | Palestinian Center for Human Rights (C) according to Oslo Accords. The demolition works were as follows:

1. A 10­square­meter tin­roofed room and wall belonging to Hamdi Dar Mousa; 2. A 10­square­meter barrack and a bus used as storehouse belonging to Ahmed Helal Hussein Rashid; and 3. A 200­square­meter garage used as a truck workshop belonging to Jamal Ahmed Ali Darraj.

At approximately 06:00, on the same day, Israeli forces accompanied by a bulldozer and Civil Administration officers moved into Jinsafout village, east of Qalqilya. They demolished a livestock barrack belonging to Abdul Fattah Rashid Bashir (61). They then delivered an order over to Sa’d Abdul Fattah Bashir (40) to demolish his 2­storey house. After Sa’d protested against what Israeli forces were doing, Israeli soldiers opened fire and pepper­ sprayed Bahir family. As a result, Sa’d sustained three bullet wounds to the legs and his brother Rahid (33) was hit with a bullet to the left hand and then to the belly. Israeli forces also arrested their brother Mershed (27) and took him to an unknown destination.

At approximately 10:00, on Monday, Israeli forces accompanied by a bulldozer and Civil Administration officers moved into Salfit. They raided a playground belonging to Salfit municipality. The Civil Administration officer informed the labourers to stop construction works in the playground because the plot on which the playground was being built was sold to the Israeli forces. Moreover, Israeli forces closed the road leading to the playground and no further incidents were reported.

At approximately 06:30 on Wednesday, 20 January 2016, Israeli forces demolished two residential barracks and two bathrooms in the east of Jericho. According to information obtained by PCHR’s fieldworker, at approximately 06:30, Israeli forces demolished the following:

1. A 50­square­meter residential barrack and a bathroom belonging to Jamal Mohammed Hassan Jahaleen (38). The barrack was sheltering 8 family members; and 2. A 50­square residential barrack and a bathroom belonging to the same person. The barrack was sheltering 6 family members.

At approximately 09:00, on the same day, Israeli forces accompanied by Civil Administration vehicle and a digger moved into Beit al­Roush al­Tahta village, west of Doura, southwest of Hebron. They stationed in al­Moqleq, while the digger demolished a 170­square­meter house, a cement wall and a well belonging to Rashad Abu Ayesh, from al­Luqia village in Israel.

Settler attacks against Palestinian civilians and their property

http://pchrgaza.org/en/?p=7757 31/35 1/21/2016 Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (14­ 20 January 2016) | Palestinian Center for Human Rights At approximately 21:00 on Friday, 15 January 2016, Israeli settlers covered a large rock with black plastic bags and then put it at the intersection of Wadi Qana near the entrance to “Immanuel” settlement, northwest of Salfit. This resulted in a car accident, as Mohammed Ihssan al­Khateib (21), from Dirasitya village, northwest of Salfit, was driving his car when he was surprised to find the rock at the abovementioned intersection. As a result, the car hit the rock, due to which the car broke down. Mohammed al­Khateib said to PCHR’s fieldworker:

“At approximately 21:00 on Friday, 15 January 2016, I was driving my taxi on Wadi Qana road heading to Deiristya village with two passengers with me. When I approached Wadi Qana intersection near the entrance to “Immanuel” settlement, I was surprised that my car had crashed into a black object. After I got out of my car, I found a large rock covered with black plastic bags; the rock was placed at the intersection in an invisible place.”

At approximately 16:30 on Monday, 18 January 2016, an Israeli settler from “Ariel” settlement ran over two brothers, one of whom was a child, from Mas’ha village, west of Salfit, while they were returning by bicycle from their work in Kufor Qassem village. The settler intentionally deviated from the main street, although it was empty, and drove towards the bicycle that was rode by Khalil Mousa Zuhair ‘Amir (19), and his brother ‘Odai (17). As a result, the bicycle rolled over and the driver was immediately killed, while ‘Odai sustained serious wounds, after which, ‘Odai was transported to Beilinsion Hospital in Israel to receive medical treatment.

According to the uncle of the two abovementioned brothers, Bilal Zuhair Ahmed ‘Amir (38):

“At approximately 16:30 on Monday, 18 January 2016, while we were on foot going back from our work in Kufor Qassem village, which was near our house. Khalil and his brother ‘Odai were coming back with us by their bicycle. Additionally, they leave their bicycle near the wall of Kufor Qassem entrance and return daily by it. Khalil and ‘Odai work with their father in Kufor Qassem village. Furthermore, while we were walking on the side of the road, suddenly, an Israeli civilian car deviated towards the two brothers and ran over them, although the street was empty and wide enough. We saw how the settler intentionally deviated by his car towards them. Some photos of this settler were later published on social media websites showing who he was. The settler’s father then came to the incident place shouting at his son asking, ‘Why did you do that?!’ Afterwards, Israeli forces arrived and attempted to tell the people that it was an accident, but we saw with our own eyes how the settler intentionally deviated towards the brothers and how he did not attempt to use the brakes to stop the car.”

On Monday, six Israeli settlers, from “Bracha” settlement, south of Nablus, set an ambush for Palestinian civilian vehicles behind their parking station, south of Hawara checkpoint, south of Nablus. The settlers were waiting the arrival of Palestinian vehicles coming from Hawara checkpoint, and they suddenly appear in front of their vehicles, so the Palestinian drivers were forced to drive slowly to avoid the Israeli claims about carrying out a run­over attack or opening fire at them. When Palestinian vehicles approached the settlers, the latter were throwing stones towards the vehicles under the Israeli soldiers’ protection, before the driver could even escape. As a result, two Palestinian vehicles were damaged. The first one belonging to Harees Abu ‘Awad, from Balatah refugee camp, east of Nablus, sustained http://pchrgaza.org/en/?p=7757 32/35 1/21/2016 Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (14­ 20 January 2016) | Palestinian Center for Human Rights damage in the left windows; and the second one belonging to Wadah Nabeel Abed al­Jaleel Ahmed ‘Amir (27), from Kufor Qalil village, east of Nablus, sustained damage in the windshield.

Recommendations to the International Community

PCHR emphasizes the international community’s position that the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, are still under Israeli occupation, in spite of Israeli military redeployment outside the Gaza Strip in 2005. PCHR further confirms that Israeli forces continued to impose collective punishment measures on the Gaza Strip, which have escalated since the 2006 Palestinian parliamentary elections, in which Hamas won the majority of seats of the Palestinian Legislative Council. PCHR stresses that there is international recognition of Israel’s obligation to respect international human rights instruments and the international humanitarian law, especially the Hague Regulations concerning the Laws and Customs of War on Land and the Geneva Conventions. Israel is bound to apply the international human rights law and the law of war http://pchrgaza.org/en/?p=7757 33/35 1/21/2016 Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (14­ 20 January 2016) | Palestinian Center for Human Rights 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 State of Palestine; 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 obligation to ensure the application of the Conventions, including extending the scope of their jurisdiction in order to prosecute suspected war criminals, regardless of the nationality of the perpetrator and the place of a crime, to pave the way for prosecuting suspected Israeli war criminals and end the longstanding impunity they have enjoyed; 6. PCHR calls on States that apply the principle of universal jurisdiction not to surrender to Israeli pressure to limit universal jurisdiction to perpetuate the impunity enjoyed by suspected Israeli war criminals; 7. PCHR calls upon the international community to act in order to stop all Israeli settlement expansion activities in the oPt through imposing sanctions on Israeli settlements and criminalizing trading with them; 8. PCHR calls upon the UN General Assembly to transfer the Goldstone Report to the UN Security Council in order to refer it to the International Criminal Court in accordance with Article 13(b) of the Rome Statute; 9. PCHR calls upon the United Nations to confirm that holding war criminals in the Palestinian­ Israeli conflict is a precondition to achieve stability and peace in the regions, and that peace cannot be built on the expense of human rights; 10. PCHR calls upon the UN General Assembly and Human Rights Council to explicitly declare that the Israeli closure policy in Gaza and the annexation wall in the West Bank are illegal, and accordingly refer the two issues to the UN Security Council to impose sanctions on Israel to compel it to remove them; 11. PCHR calls upon the international community, in light of its failure to the stop the aggression http://pchrgaza.org/en/?p=7757 34/35 1/21/2016 Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (14­ 20 January 2016) | Palestinian Center for Human Rights on the Palestinian people, to at least fulfil its obligation to reconstruct the Gaza Strip after the series of hostilities launched by Israel which directly targeted the civilian infrastructure; 12. PCHR calls upon the United Nations and the European Union to express a clear position towards the annexation wall following the international recognition of the State of Palestine on the 1967 borders, as the annexation wall seizes large parts of the State of Palestine; 13. PCHR calls upon the European Union to activate Article 2 of the 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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