Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (14– 20 April 2016)

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

(14– 20 April 2016)

Beit Jala: Israeli Forces Continues to Build the Annexation Wall.

Israeli forces continued to use excessive force in the oPt A Palestinian civilian was killed at the entrance to al­‘Aroub refugee camp, north of Hebron. Eleven Palestinian civilians were wounded in the West Bank and Gaza Strip. A woman was wounded in al­Shuja’iyah neighbourhood due to the explosion of a suspicious object of the Israeli military remnants.

Israeli forces conducted 61 incursions into Palestinian communities in the West Bank and 13 others in occupied Jerusalem and its suburbs. 79 103 civilians, including 24 children and 3 young women, were arrested. 59 of them, including 24 children and a young woman, were arrested in occupied Jerusalem. Al­‘Ajouli Company for Exchange was raided and burnt in addition to other shops in the centre of Ramallah and al­Bireh.

Israeli forces continued to target Palestinian fishermen in the Gaza Strip Sea. A fisherman was wounded, five others were arrested, a fishing boat was confiscated and another was sunk.

Israeli forces continued their efforts to create Jewish majority in occupied East Jerusalem. A house in Qalendia refugee camp, north of the city, was demolished on grounds of collective punishments. The Israeli municipality distributed dozens of house demolotion decisions in Silwan village. A handicrafts Exhibition to be held in “al­Hakawati” Palestinian National Theatre was prevented upon an order from the Israeli Minister of Internal Security.

Settlement activities continued in the West Bank. Two commercial facilities were demolished in East Barta’ah village, west of Jenin, and a well in al­‘Aroub refugee camp, north of Hebron Settlers attacked a Palestinian elderly.

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 others were re­ established to obstruct the movement of Palestinian civilians. 5 Palestinian civilians, including a university student, were arrested at military checkpoints. Israeli forces arrested a Palestinian Patient from Rafah at a checkpoint established in Jenin. Israeli forces arrested a Palestinian Patient at Beit Hanoun (Erez) crossing.

Summary

Israeli violations of international law and international humanitarian law in the oPt continued during the reporting period (14 – 20 April 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. During the reporting period, Israeli forces killed a Palestinian civilian from al­‘Aroub refugee camp, north of Hebron and wounded 12 Palestinian civilians; one of whom was wounded in the West Bank, 8 were wounded in the West Bank and the 3 others were wounded in the Gaza Strip. Moreover, a Palestinian woman was wounded due to the explosion of a suspicious object of the Israeli military remnants.

In the West Bank, in a new crime of excessive use of force, on 14 April 2016, Israeli forces killed Ibrahim Abu ‘Ayyash (54) from al­‘Aroub refugee camp, north of Hebron. Israeli forces claimed that Abu ‘Ayyash was carrying a sharp tool and heading towards the Israeli soldiers stationed at the camp entrance. His corpse was taken by an Israeli Magen David Adom (MDA) to an unknown destination after the Palestinian medical crews were denied access to him. On the following day afternoon, the corpse was handed to the Palestinian military liaison, and his funeral procession was held in the camp.

On 14 April 2016, a Palestinian boy was wounded when Israeli forces moved into East Barta’ah village, west of Jenin. They surrounded two different facilities in a prelude to demolish them. Dozens of Palestinian civilians gathered to prevent them from demolishing the facilities and threw stones at the soldiers. The Israeli soldiers in response fired ter gas canisters and sound bombs at the stone­throwers to disperse them. As a result one of them was directly hit with a gas canister.

On 20 April 2016, 8 Palestinian civilians were wounded in Qalednia refugee camp, north of occupied Jerusalem when the Israeli forces moved into the camp to demolish the house of Hussein Abu Ghosh. Three of them sustained live bullet wounds and were transferred to Palestine Medical Complex in Ramallah while the five others sustained metal bullet wounds and received medical treatment.

In the Gaza Strip, Israeli forces wounded 3 Palestinian civilians, including a fisherman and two protestors. Meanwhile a woman was wounded due to the explosion of a suspicious object of the Israeli military remnants.

As part of Israeli attacks on fishermen in the Gaza Strip Sea, On 19 April 2016, Israeli gunboats stationed off Rafah shore, south of the Gaza Strip, opened fire and fired metal bullets at a number of Palestinian fishing boats sailing within 8 nautical miles off the shore. As a result, one of the fishermen was hit with metal bullets throughtpuit his bodies while 5 others were arrested by Israeli forces. Moreover, Israeli forces confiscated a fishing boat and sank another.

As part of the use of force against Palestinian civilians participating in the protest s against Israeli forces in the vicinity of the border fence between the Gaza Strip and Israel, on 14 April 2016, two Palestinian civilians were wounded; one of whom sustained a live bullet wound to the left leg, east of al­Shuja’iyah, east of Gaza City while the other one sustained a live bullet wound to the abdomen, east of al­Bureij in the central Gaza Strip.

On 18 April 2016, Ilham Abu ‘Aser (32) from al­Shuja’iyah neighbourhood, east of Gaza City sustained shrapnel wounds to the left foot due to the explosion of a suspicious object believed to be from the Israeli military remnants in al­Nazzaz Street in the aforementioned neighbourhood.

Incursions:

During the reporting period, Israeli forces conducted at least 61 military incursions into Palestinian communities in the West Bank and 13 ones in occupied East Jerusalem and its suburbs. During these incursions, Israeli forces arrested at least 103 Palestinian civilians, including 24 children and 3 young women. Fifty­nine of them, including 21 children and a young woman, were arrested in occupied Jerusalem.

During the reporting period, on 13 April 2016, Israeli forces raided al­‘Ajouli Exchange Company in Souq al­Khodar building belonging to al­Bireh municipality. The Israeli soldiers forced the company’s owners to open the main door and raided and searched it. They also confiscated computers and documents before planting explosive materials in an attempt to open the big safe, which contains a lot of money and other documents related to their work. As a result, the safe was burnt and the office caught fire as well in adiition to nearby shops in the area and in the same building.

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.

Jewish Majority

In the context of house demolitions, on 20 April 2016, Israeli moved into Qaelndia refugee camp, north of occupied Jerusalem. They raided and searched a house belonging to Hussein Abu Ghosh and destroyed the internal walls by a bulldozer. It should be mentioned that Abu Ghosh (17) was killed by Israeli forces on 25 January 2016 after he and Ibrahim ‘Allan (22) carried a stabbing attack in “Beit Horon” settlement, west of Ramallah. As a result, a settler was killed and another was wounded.

In the context of house demolitions and demolition notices, on 15 April 2016, Israeli forces accompanied with Israeli municipality staffs moved into a number of neighbourhoods uin Silwan village, south of East Jerusalem. The staff members distributed administrative demolition orders in the village after taking photos of some of its neighbourhoods and entrances in addition to houses and facilities. On 16 April 2016, joint crews from the Israeli municipality and Israeli forces moved into Silwan village again and distributed 18 administrative demolition notices in al­Bustan neighbourhood in the village in addition to taking photos of its neighbourhoods and streets.

As part of targeting the NGOs in the city, on 13 April 2016, Israeli forces raided al­Hakawati Palestinian National Theatre and handed its administration a decision signed by the Israeli Minister of Intenral Security, Gilad Ardan, to close it for one day under the pretext of holding an event sponsored by the Palestinian Authority. It should be mentioned that the final ceremony for the project of “An apprenticeship for the graduates of vocational and technical training in Jerusalem – project of employing the youth” was supposed to be held at Al­Hakawati. Moreover, handicraft items made by Jerusalemite females were supposed to be exhibited in Al­ Hakawati hall.

Settlement activities:

On 14 April 2016, Israeli forces demolished two civil facilities in East Barta’ah, which isolated from its surrounding due to the annexation wall, west of Jenin. The first facility belongs to Basem ‘Aamrnah (34) while the second belongs to Mustafa Qabha (47).

On the same day, Israeli bulldozers levelled an 80­cubic­meter wall belonging to Saleh Nemer (34) in Abu Sawadah area, east of al­Arrouub refugee camp, north of Hebron.

On 14 April 2016, a group of Israeli settlers severely beat Zuhair Abu Khdeir (64) while being at work in West Jerusalem. His son said that his father sustained fractures in his nose, bruises in the head and face and his eyes were swollen. As a result, he was taken to the hospital and the wound in his nose required stitches.

Details

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

Thursday, 14 April 2016

At approximately 01:00, Israeli forces moved into Qabatiya village, south of Jenin. They raided and searched a house belonging to Wesam Ahmed Khalil Abu al­Rub (20) and then arrested Wesam. Later, they raided a house belonging to Tamer Maher Sadeq Abu al­Rub (21) and arrested him as well.

Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Burqin village, west of Jenin. They raided and searched a house belonging to Ahmed Mo’en Mohammed Suboh (20) and arrested him.

Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Jenin refugee camp, west of Jenin. They raided a house belonging to Jamal Fares Mohammed Mur’eb (50). They also raided and searched a house belonging to a leader in the Islamic Jehad Movement, Bassam Ragheb Abdul Karem al­Sa’di (56) and the house of his brother Ghassan (52). Following that, Israeli forces raided and searched a house belonging to Ahmed Faisal Ersan Qareni (19) and arrested him.

Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Kafr Dan village, northwest of Jenin. They raided and searched a house belonging to Amer Naser Saoud Abu Zaid (27) and arrested him. They then raided and searched a house belonging to Arqam Tayser Mahmoud al­Jamal (28) and then arrested him too.

Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Yabud village, southwest of Jenin. They raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Tawfeq Abdullah Maslamani (59) and arrested his sons Ahmed (26) and Sohaib (23). However, Israeli forces released them later.

Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into al­Hijrah village, east of Dora, southwest of Hebron. They raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Ahmed Ishaq Abu Hashhash (19). They then arrested Abu Hashhash (19) and took him to an unknown destination.

At approximately 01:30, Israeli forces moved into Erq al­Tout area, east of Beit Ommar village, north of Hebron. They raided and searched two shops and broke the main doors using special equipment. They also confiscated 2 recording devices of the surveillance cameras belonging to Mohammed Hasan al­Khateb and Eyad Mohammed Yasen al­ Laham form Surif village.

At approximately 02:00, Israeli forces moved into Ein Beit al­Maa’ refugee camp, northwest of Nablus. They raided and searched 2 houses form which they arrested Anas Hani Hamdi (27) and Ahmed Ali Haj Ali (22).

Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Nablus. They raided and searched a house belonging to Ahmed Ennab (25) and then arrested him.

Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Ein Senia village, north of Ramallah. They raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Othman Asa’ad Thaher (23) and then arrested him.

Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Kharsa village, south of Dora, southwest of Hebron, and stationed in al­Namous area, west of the village. They raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Mustafa Ismael Safi (37) and then arrested him. At approximately 03:00, Israeli forces moved into Haninah area in the city. They raided and searched a house belonging to Jamal Husain al­Awawrah (38) and then arrested him. Israeli forces withdrew later to “Adorim” camp, east of Dora, and informed the families of the two arrested civilians that they are in “Kfar Etzion” detention centre, south of Bethlehem.

At approximately 02:30, Israeli forces accompanied with military jeeps and the police moved into Ramallah and al­Birah and stationed in the vicinity of al­Manarah square. They brought one of the owners of al­Ajouli Exchange Company, Ghazi al­Ajouli (63) who was arrested on the previous day and taken to “Benjamin” police station, southeast of Ramallah. They ordered him to call his son Moayad (32) to bring the company’s keys and arrested him when he came. They then raided and searched the company’s head office and confiscated some PC sets and files. They also put explosives to open a large safe inside of which there were money, files and documents related to their business causing fire inside the safe. After that, the Palestinian civil defence vehicles arrived, but the Israeli forces hindered their way. At approximately 04:30, after Israeli forces withdrew, the civil defence crews began to put out fire that was set to al­Ajouli Exchange Company and number of shops in the upper floor of the building where the company is located.

At approximately 03:30, Israeli forces moved into Tubas. They raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Adham Atef Abu Siaj (23) and then arrested him.

In excessive use of lethal force, Israeli forces killed a Palestinian civilian (54) claiming that he was holding a sharp tool and moving towards Israeli soldiers stationed at the entrance of al­Aroub refugee camp, north of Hebron.

According to PCHR’s investigations, at approximately 15:00, Israeli forces stationed at the entrance of al­Aroub refugee camp, north of Hebron, shot Ibrahim Mohammed Saber Abu Ayash (54) form the camp. As a result, Ibrahim suffered wounds throughout his body and immediately died. Israeli Magen David Adom’s (MDA) ambulance took Ibrahim’s corpse to an unknown destination and prevented the Palestinian ambulance crew from approaching. On Friday evening, 15 April 2016, Ibrahim’s corpse was delivered to the Palestinian liaison office. It should be noted that the funeral procession took place in the refugee camp. The Israeli forces claimed that Ibrahim was holding a sharp tool and moving towards the Israeli soldiers stationed at the entrance of al­Aroub refugee camp.

Note: During the aforementioned day, Israeli forces conducted (4) incursions in the following areas and no arrests were reported: Ethna, Nubah, Emirsh villages and al­ Fawar refugee camp in Hebron.

Friday, 15 April 2016

At approximately 03:00, Israeli forces moved into Duma village, south of Nablus. They raided and searched several houses from which they arrested Mohammed Akram Hasan Darawshah (22) and Mahmoud Abdul Fatah Mohammed Salawdah (24).

Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Qaryuot village, southeast of Nablus. They raided and searched several houses from which they arrested Thaer Mostafa al­ Mardawi (22), who is a student in al­Rawdah college in Nablus, and Asem Mahmoud al­ Mardawi (22).

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

Saturday, 16 April 2016

Note: During the aforementioned day, Israeli forces conducted (4) incursions in the following areas and no arrests were reported: Ethna, Nuba, Emrish villages and al­Fawar refugee camp in Hebron.

Sunday, 17 April 2016

At approximately 01:30, Israeli forces moved into several neighbourhoods in Hebron. They raided and searched several houses from which they arrested Atah Yaqin al­Atrash (22), Mo’en Mohammed Siyaj (20), Amjad Ahmed Fathallah Salhab (20) and Jebril Abdul Rahman Abu Sunainah (30).

At approximately 02:00, Israeli forces moved into Beit Our al­Tahtah village, southwest of Ramallah. They raided and searched a house belonging to Montaser Ahmed Sulaiman (16) and then arrested him.

Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Marah Rabah village, south of Bethlehem. They raided and searched a house belonging to the family of the former prisoner Ahmed Qasem al­Shaikh (56) and then arrested him.

At approximately 02:30, Israeli forces moved into Beit Ommar village, northwest of Hebron, and stationed in al­Biyadah neighbourhood. They raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Rashed Yusuf Bader Awad (17) and then arrested him. In the meanwhile, another Israeli force raided and searched a house belonging to Ali Ayad Awad (45) and handed a summons to his son Hamzah (20) to refer to the Israeli intelligence service in “Gosh Etzion” settlement complex, south of Bethlehem.

At approximately 04:00, Israeli forces moved into Selwad village, northeast of Ramallah. They raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Abdul Hamid Mahmoud Hamed (22) and locked the family in one of the house rooms. Moreover, an Israeli soldier attacked Abdul Hamid’s mother, pushed her and prevented her from approaching Abdul Hamid. They then arrested him. It should be mentioned that the arrested civilian is a third year student in Al­Quds Open University.

Note: During the aforementioned day, Israeli forces conducted (4) incursions in the following areas and no arrests were reported: Dora, Bani Naim, Sa’ir, Tafouh and al­Majd villages in Hebron.

Monday, 18 April 2016

At approximately 12:00, Israeli forces moved into al­Khader village, south of Bethlehem. They raided and searched 2 houses belonging to Zain Sayel Essa (21) and Qasem Yasen Essa (20) and handed them summonses to refer to the Israeli intelligence service in “Gosh Etzion” settlement complex, south of the city.

Note: During the aforementioned day, Israeli forces conducted (5) incursions in the following areas and no arrests were reported: Birzeit, Sangal, Kharbatha al­Mesbah and Betellu villages in Ramallah and al­Birah and Fasayil village, north of Jericho.

Tuesday, 19 April 2016

At approximately 01:00, Israeli forces moved into Deir Abu Mesha’al village, northwest of Ramallah. They raided and searched a house belonging to Ahmed Abdullah Darwesh and then arrested his daughter Nour (22). They also confiscated 2 iPads and 2 cell phones form Nour and her brother. Israeli forces took her to “Maskubyya” investigation centre in occupied Jerusalem without allowing her to change her clothes. It should be mentioned that Nour is a physiotherapy student in al­Quds (Abu Dees) University.

At approximately 01:30, Israeli forces moved into several neighbourhoods in Hebron. They raided and searched three houses and forced their owners to leave them. They also arrested 3 civilians, including a child, and took them to an unknown destination. The arrested civilians were identified as Eyad Jamil Abu Sunainah (23), Ibrahim Sa’ed Abu Romuz (16) and Motaz Ali al­Mohtaseb (26).

At approximately 02:00, Israeli forces moved into al­Kader village, south of Bethlehem. They raided and searched a house belonging to Yusuf Atwan and then arrested his wife Majd (22).

At approximately 02:30, Israeli forces moved into Kafr Qadoum village, northeast of Qalqilya. They raided and searched a house belonging to Osamah Fadel Obaid (22) and handed him a summons to refer to the Israeli intelligence service. They also raided and searched several houses from which they arrested Ayman Abdul Karem Burham (40) and Ahmed Dawoud Aqel (20) but they were not able to arrest Mohammed Majed Abdul Mo’men Jom’ah (20). Moreover, they handed Jom’ah’s family a summons to refer to the Israeli intelligence service. At approximately 09:00 on the same day, Jom’ah went to the Israeli intelligence service where he was arrested.

At approximately 03:00, Israeli forces moved into Beit Fajjar village, south of Bethlehem. They raided and searched 2 houses from which they arrested Morad Mohammed Taqatqah (23) and Walid Essa Taqatqah (21).

Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Beit Awah village, southwest of Hebron. They raided and searched a house belonging to Abdul Rahim Mahmoud Awad (20) and then arrested him.

At approximately 03:30, Israeli gunboats stationed off Rafah shore, south of the Gaza Strip, opened fire at a group of Palestinian fishing boats that were sailing about 8 nautical miles off the fishing port. As a result, a fisherman was hit with metal bullets throughout his body. Medical sources classified his injury as moderate. Moreover, Israeli gunboats chased two of the fishing boats and arrested 5 fishermen that were on board. The arrested fishermen were identified as Mostafa Mohammed Khalil al­Najar (29), Odai Hasan Khalil al­Najar (20) and Ahmed Kamal Oudah Abu Muhsen (20) and the two brothers Mohammed Jehad Reziq Musleh (26) and Bilal (21). Mohammed Jehad Mesleh said that at approximately 19:00, he and the 4 others were released via Beit Hanoun crossing but his boat remained in custody. However, the boat of al­Najjar family was drowned in the sea as it was hit with live bullets to the bow when Israeli gunboats chased the fishermen.

Note: During the aforementioned day, Israeli forces conducted (11) incursions in the following areas and no arrests were reported: Shuwaikah Suburb, north of Tulkarm; al­Jafatlak and al­ Dyouk villages, north of Jericho; Jeet village, northeast of Qalqiliyah; Bani Naim, Sa’ir, Hadab al­Fawar, Sekat al­Burj and Deir al­Asal villages in Hebron.

Wednesday, 20 April 2016

At approximately 01:30, Israeli forces moved into Faroun village, south of Tulkarm. They raided and searched a house belonging to Moneer Naim Mahmoud Edwan (40) and then arrested him.

At approximately 02:00, Israeli forces moved into Shaqbah village, west of Ramallah. They raided and searched a house belonging to Adnan Ahmed Awad Shalash (38) and then arrested him.

At approximately 03:30, Israeli forces moved into al­Zubaidat village, north of Jericho. They raided and searched 2 houses from which they arrested Eyad Mohammed Abed Zubaidat and Mohammed Omar Mohammed Zubaidat (24).

A Woman from al­Shujaiyah neighbourhood was wounded due to the explosion of a suspicious object

At approximately 09:30 on Monday, 18 April 2016, Elham Mohammed Essa Abu Aser (32), form al­Shujaiyah neighbourhood, east of Gaza city, was transferred to al­Shifa’ Hospital suffering from shrapnel wounds in the left leg.

According to the statement of her husband, Diyab Rebhi Abu Aser, Elham went out of their house located in al­Nazaz Street in al­Shujaiyah neighbourhood. She was walking in Hittin dust road when Diyab heard an explosion and then saw her left leg bleeding. Passers­by transported her to the hospital where she underwent a surgery to remove the shrapnel. It was found out that she stepped on a suspicious object of the Israeli military remnants, due to which that object exploded.

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

West Bank:

Following the Friday prayer, on 15 April 2016, dozens of Palestinian civilians organized protests against the Israeli policies in the oPt at the western entrance to Silwad village, northeast of Ramallah, and in the vicinity of “Ofer” prison, southwest of the city. Israeli forces used force to disperse the protestors by firing live bullets, rubber­coated metal bullets, tear gas canisters and sound bombs. As a result, many civilians suffered tear gas inhalation and others sustained bruises as Israeli soldiers beat them up.

Gaza Strip:

At approximately 14:30, on Friday, 15 April 2016, dozens of Palestinian young men headed to the border fence between the Gaza Strip and Israel, east of al­Shuja’iyah neighbourhood, east of the Gaza Strip. They threw stones at Israeli soldiers stationed along the fence. The Israeli soldiers stationed behind sand barriers opened fire at the protesters. As a result, Ra’ed Abdul ‘Aziz ‘Abed Rabbo al­Dahdouh (27) was hit with a live bullet to the left leg and then taken to al­Shifa Hospital, where doctors classified his wound as moderate.

Around the same time, dozens of Palestinian young men headed to the border fence between the Gaza Strip and Israel, east of al­Bureij refugee camp in the central Gaza Strip. The protesters threw stones at Israeli soldiers stationed along the fence, due to which, the soldiers opened fire at them. As a result, Mohammed Yousef Abu Thurayah (34) was hit with a live bullet to the abdomen and then taken to al­Aqsa Hospital in Deir al­Balah, where his wound was classified as moderate.

Demonstrations against the annexation wall and settlement activities

Following the Friday prayers, on 15 April 2016, dozens of Palestinians and Israeli and international human rights defenders organised protests against the annexation wall and settlement activities in Bil’in and Nil’in villages, west of Ramallah; al­Nabi Saleh village, northwest of city; and Kufor Qadoum village, northeast of Qalqiliya. Israeli forces used force to disperse the protesters by firing live bullets, metal bullets, tear gas canisters and sound bombs and chased the protesters into the olive fields and between houses. As a result, many civilians suffered tear gas inhalation and others sustained bruises as Israeli soldiers beat them up.

At approximately 13:30, on Friday, Palestinians civilians, national forces, and international human rights defenders organised a demonstration from the centre of Dirastiya village, northwest of Salfit, and then headed to Abu Naser valley Bypass Road, west of the city. The protesters organized the demonstration in protest against establishing iron barriers in the abovementioned road and isolating 12,000 dunums of agricultural lands. Israeli forces fired sound bombs and tear gas canisters at the protesters and sprayed pepper spray at them. As a result, dozens of civilians suffered tear gas inhalation and received medial treamtment on the spot. Whereas 3 other civilians were taken to Yaser ‘Arafat Hospital in Salfit due to being sprayed with pepper sprays by Israeli settlers.

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

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, is designated for the movement of goods

Imports Date Amount Category Tons Number Liters Various goods 4499.5 Humanitarian aid 2017 Cooking gas 235,920 Benzene 259,970 Diesel 12 April 442,995 Diesel for UNRWA 76.000

Cement 560 Construction steel 780 Various goods 5361.25 Humanitarian aid 2865 Cooking gas 276,520 13 April Benzene 186,986 Diesel 779,987

Diesel for UNRWA 189,998

Cement 800 Construction steel 1110 Various goods 4521.6 Humanitarian aid 1309 Cooking gas 254,040 Benzene 111,000 14 April 331,010 Diesel

Industrial fuel 306,000 Construction steel 600 Various goods 2685 Humanitarian aid 2089 Cooking gas 277,150 17 April Benzene 186,000 Diesel 455,996

Diesel for UNRWA 76.000

Industrial fuel 114.000 cement 800 Construction steel 450 Various goods 3833 Humanitarian aid 1892 Cooking gas 257,090 Benzene 235,700 18 April Diesel 476,011

Diesel for UNRWA 38.010

Industrial Fuel 266.001 Cement 560 Construction steel 630

Exports

On Tuesday, 12 April 2016, Israeli forces allowed the exportation of 88.76 tons of tomatoes; 9.60 tons of Valencia orange; 23.60 tons of eggplants; 14.72 tons of peppers; 12.80 tons of lemons; and 0.80 tons of sweet peppers. On Wednesday, 13 April 2016, Israeli forces allowed the exportation of 11.25 tons of lemons and 9.75 tons of oranges. On Thursday, 14 April 2016, Israeli forces allowed the exportation of 106.24 tons of tomatoes; 9.60 tons of Valencia orange; 11.60 tons of eggplants; 4.48 tons of peppers; 10.80 tons of lemons; 2.88 tons of sweet peppers; 2.24 tons of cucumbers; 0.10 tons of parsley; 0.50 tons of mints; and 0.14 tons of garlic. On Sunday, 14 April 2016, Israeli forces allowed the exportation of 140 tons of tomatoes; 35 tons of Valencia orange; 19 tons of eggplants; 2.50 tons of sweet peppers; 30 tons of lemons; 20 tons of cucumbers; and 19 tons of furniture. On Monday, 18 April 2016, Israeli forces allowed the exportation of 36 tons of lemons; and 21 tons of stationery.

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.

Note: The date relevant to Beit Hanoun crossing is not available this week because it was not prepared by the crossing’s administration

Israeli forces arrest Palestinian Patient at Beit Hanoun “Erez” crossing while returning to the Gaza Strip

At approximately 09:00, on Monday, 18 April 2016, Israeli forces stationed in Beit Hanoun “Erez” crossing, north of the Gaza Strip, arrested a Palestinian patient, Mahmoud Sa’id al­‘Abed Abu Foul (19), from Jabalia refugee camp, after he was summoned for a security interview at the abovementioned crossing. It should be mentioned that Abu Foul was wounded during clashes erupted with Israeli forces on 09 October 2015, east of al­Shuja’iya neighborhood, east of Gaza City in protest at the Israeli violations against Palestinian civilians in the West Bank and Jeursalem. At that time, Abu Foul was hit with a live bullet to the left leg, cutting his tendons and arteries. He completed all the needed procedures for treatment abroad. On 15 October 2016, Abu Foul obtained a medical referral to al­Najah University Hospital in Nablus, where he underwent a surgery and then returned to the Gaza Strip. Mahmoud’s family recently noticed changes in the operated leg as its natural color turned into red and then to black. As a result, his family immediately completed all the procedures needed to refer him again to al­Najah Hospital. On 18 April 2016, Mahmoud obtained a new appointment. However, on Sunday, 17 April 2016, the Medical Coordination Officers informed the family that their request was rejected. On the same day evening, the family received another call from an unknown number telling them that Mahmoud has a security interview at the crossing on Monday, 18 April 2016. Mohamed then headed to Beit Hanoun crossing and did not return back.

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 (17) checkpoints all over the city.

On Thursday, 14 April 2016, Israeli forces established four checkpoints at the entrance to al­‘Aroub refugee camp; the southern entrance to Halhoul village; the southern entrance to Hebron (al­Fahes); and the northern entrance to Yatta village.

On Friday, 15 April 2016, Israeli forces established three checkpoints at the entrance to Tarama village; the western entrance to Hebron (Farsh al­Hawa) and the eastern entrance to Dura village.

On Saturday, 16 April 2016, Israeli forces established four checkpoints at the entrance to al­‘Aroyb refugee camp; the southern entrance to Halhoul village; the southern entrance to Hebron (al­Fahes); and the northern entrance to Yatta village.

On Sunday, 17 April 2016, Israeli forces established three checkpoints at the entrances to Beit ‘Awaa and al­Fawar refugee camp, and the northern entrance to Yatta village.

On Tuesday, 19 April 2016, Israeli forces established three checkpoints at the entrances to Ethna, Sa’ir and al­Karmel villages.

Ramallah and al­Bireh: Israeli forces established (6) checkpoints all over the village. On Thursday, 14 April 2016, Israeli forces established two checkpoints at the northern entrance to ‘Ain Sina village, north of Ramallah, and under the bridge of Yabroud village, northeast of the city.

On Friday, 15 April 2016, Israeli forces established three checkpoints at the entrance to al­Nabi Saleh village, northwest of Ramallah; at the intersection of Beit ‘Ur al­Foqa village; and under the bridge of Kherbitha al­Mosbah, southwest of the city.

At approximately 18:00, on Saturday, 16 April 2016, Israeli forces established similar checkpoint at the intersection of Beit ‘Ur al­Foqa village, southwest of the city.

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

On Friday, 15 April 2016, Israeli forces established three checkpoints between Hejah and al­ Fondoq villages; at the entrance to ‘Azoun village, and under the bridge of ‘Azoun village, east of Qalqilyia.

On Sunday, 17 April 2016, Israeli forces established three checkpoints near al­Nabi Iyaas village; and at the entrance to ‘Ezbit al­Tabeeb village, east of Qalqilyia, and it was established again on the same day.

Tulkarm: At approximately 14:00, on Thursday, 14 April 2016, Israeli forces established a checkpoint on the main road between Tulkarm and other villages located in the north of Tulkarm known as (al­Sha’rawiya) near the entrance to al­Jaroshiya village, north of Tulkarm.

At approximately 19:30, on Friday, 16 April 2016, Israeli forces established a checkpoint on the main road between Tulkarm and other villages located in the north of Tulkarm known as (al­ Sha’rawiya) near the entrance to Qufeen village, north of Tulkarm.

At approximately 20:00, on Saturday, 17 April 2016, Israeli forces established a checkpoint on the main road between ‘Ezabet Shofah and Shofah villages, southeast of Tulkarm.

At approximately 09:00, on Monday, 18 April 2016, Israeli forces stationed at ‘Inab checkpoint, which was established on the main road between Tulkarm and Nablus, east of Tulkarm, tightened their arbitrary measures against Palestinian civilians and obstructed their movement. At approximately 16:00, on the same day, Israeli forces repeated their arbitrary measures.

At approximately 18:30, Israeli forces established a checkpoint on the main road between Tulkarm and other villages located in the north of Tulkarm known as (al­Sha’rawyia) near the intersection of ‘Alar and ‘Ateel villages, north of Tulkarm.

Jenin: At approximately 18:00, on Thursday, 14 April 2016, Israeli forces established a checkpoint on the main road between Bier al­Basha and al­Shuhada villages, south of Jenin. Israeli forces deployed in the road sides and stopped and searched the vehicles travelling in both directions. They withdrew later and no events were reported.

At approximately 10:30, on Friday, 16 April 2016, Israeli forces established a checkpoint on the main road between Jenin and Nablus, near the intersection of ‘Oraba village, south of Jenin. At approximately 14:30, on Saturday, 17 April 2016, and at approximately 17:30, on Monday, 18 April 2016, Israeli forces re­established the same checkpoint at the abovementioned intersection.

At approximately 15:00, on Saturday, 17 April 2016, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the intersection of al­Yamoun village, north of Jenin.

Arrests at military checkpoints

At approximately 16:00, on Thursday, 14 April 2016, Israeli forces stationed at ‘Inab checkpoint established on the main road between Tulkarm and Nablus, east of Tulkarm, tightened their arbitrary measures against Palestinian civilians and obstructed their movement. The Israeli soldiers stationed behind cement cubes placed at the checkpoint stopped the vehicles travelling from and into Tulkarm, and checked the passengers’ IDs. While ‘Izz al­Deen Yousef Zuhdi Frihat (22), from al­Yamoun village, north of Jenin, was crossing the checkpoint coming back from his university, Israeli forces arrested him.

At approximately 18:00 on the same day, Israeli forces stationed at Za’tara checkpoint, south of Nablus, arrested Tareq Hassan al­Kouni (24), from Nablus while he was crossing the checkpoint in his private car along with his friends. Israeli soldiers stopped al­Kouni’s car, arrested him, but released his friends.

At approximately 10:00, on Monday, 18 April 2016, Israeli forces arrested Khalid Mohammed Salah (38), from Bethlehem, while he was working in Abu al­Humus Valley in Soubaher village, southeast of occupied Jerusalem, under the pretext of having no permit.

At approximately 17:00, on Tuesday, 19 April 2016, Israeli forces patrolling in the vicinity of the annexation wall established on paelstinian lands, west of Zaboubah village, northwest of Jenin, raided a house belonging to Ahmed Mahmoud Mobdi Maqaldah (23). They arrested the aforementioned civilian and later withdrew taking him to an unknown destination. The aforementioned civilian was arrested in his family agricultural land adjacent to the annexation wall.

At approximately 07:30, on Wednesday, 20 April 2016, Israeli forces established a checkpoint on the main road between Tulkarm and Nablus near the intersection of Bazariya village, east of Tulkarm. Israeli forces stopped vehicles travelling in both directions and checked the passengers’ IDs. They then arrested Majd ‘Ataa Mohammed Ali (21), from Safareen village, east of Tulkarm, while crossing the checkpoint heading to his university in Jenin.

Israeli forces arrest Palestinian Patient from Rafah at a checkpoint in Jenin

At approximately 13:30, on Thursday, 14 April 2016, Israeli forces arrested a Palestinian patient namely Yousef Younis Mohammed Yunis (19), from Tal al­Sultan neighborhood in Rafah at a checkpoint at the intersection of ‘Arabah village, south of Jenin. Yousef’s father said to a PCHR’s fieldworker that his son has suffered from Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP) for two years and underwent a surgery after obtaining a medical referral to al­Najah Hospital in Nablus on 14 April 2016. The abovementioned patient along with his mother, Basemah Ahmed Ibrahim Younis, headed to the hospital and since day one he arrived he underwent many tests and checkups by the doctors there. At approximately 13:30 on the aforementioned Thursday, when Yousef returned from the hospital to his residence place, Israeli forces stopped the car traveling Yousef and his mother and immediately arrested him. Yousef’s father said that his wife contacted a lawyer in the Ministry of Detainees and Ex­Detainees Affairs, and he told her that her son, Yousef is in the Ashkelon prison.

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:

Collective Punishment

On Friday morning, 20 April 2016, thousands of Israeli soldiers accompanied with 40 military jeeps, an armoured vehicle and a bulldozer moved into Qalandiya refugee camp, north of occupied East Jerusalem, from all entrances. They patrolled in the streets and stationed in al­Jabal area and the vicinity of Omer mosque. They then raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Husain Abu Ghush and demolished the house walls. In the meantime, dozens of Palestinians gathered around the house and threw stones and Molotov cocktails at Israeli soldiers who immediately fired live bullets and rubber­coated metal bullets in response. As a result, 3 civilians were hit with live bullets and then transferred to Palestine Medical Complex while 5 others were hit with metal bullets and received treatment on the scene. Moreover, Israeli forces arrested Hasan Sajediyah (19) and harshly beaten him though he was hit with a metal bullet to his leg.

Moreover, Israeli forces killed Abu Gosh’s son aged 17 after he and Ibrahim Ellan (22) carried out a stabbing in “Beit Horon” settlement, west of Ramallah. The attack resulted then in the death of the Israeli settler Shlomit Kreczman and the injury of another settler. It should be noted that Abu Gosh house is located on the third floor of a 4­storey building. The house consists of 4 rooms where Husain and his 6 brothers used to live.

Arrests and Incursions

At approximately 00:00 on Thursday, 14 April 2016, Israeli forces moved into Salwan village, south of the Old City in occupied East Jerusalem. They deployed in Bir Ayoub and Ein al­Lawzah neighbourhoods and raided several houses during which they excessively fired sound bombs. They then arrested Diaa’ Baidoun (23) and Ibrahim Siam (23), beaten them and took them to an unknown destination.

At approximately 02:00, Israeli forces moved into Silwan village, south of the Old City in occupied Jerusalem. They raided and searched several houses from which they arrested 6 elderly people and took them to “al­Qishla” police station in West Jerusalem. The arrested civilians were identified as Eid Awad Samarin (70), Methqal Fayez al­Qaq (70), Omar Abed Samarin (59) Taher Salah Arafah (63), Mousa al­Joulani (63) and Tawfeq Ghaith (60).

At approximately 03:00, on the same day, Israeli forces raided and searched several neighbourhoods in Jerusalem’s Old City. They raided and searched several houses from which they arrested 7 civilians and took them to “al­Qishla” police station in West Jerusalem. The arrested civilians were identified as Atiyah Naem Syouri (60), Mostafa Mohammed al­Salfeti (67), Omar Hasan (45), Rebhi Ghushah (63), Anwar al­Rajbi (62), Sofian Jadallah (50) and Akram al­Shurafa (45).

At approximately 04:00, Israeli forces moved into Beit Hanenah neighbourhood, north of Jerusalem. They raided and searched several houses from which they arrested 3 elderly people and took them to “al­Qishla” police station in West Jerusalem. The arrested civilians were identified as Nabel al­Sharif (70), Adel Abu Ermelah (68) and Omar ‘Ebedo (60).

On Thursday morning, Israeli forces raided the Palestinian National Theatre (al­ Hakawati) and handed its administration a decision to close it for one day under the pretext of organizing an event sponsored by the Palestinian Authority (PA) without permission. The decision signed by the Israeli Internal Security Minister Gilad Arden stated that “any event to be held in the Palestinian Theatre sponsored by the PA should be organized upon permission or a letter according to Article 3 (A) of the Oslo Accords concerning the West Bank and the Gaza Strip (Law of identifying activities) 1994.” Arden also gave an order to prevent holding the activity in any other place of the city. It should be noted that a concluding ceremony of the project “Apprenticeship for the graduates of vocational and technical training in Jerusalem – Youth Employment Services (YES)” was supposed to be held at Al­Hakawati. Moreover, handicraft items made by Jerusalemite females were supposed to be exhibited in Al­Hakawati hall.

At approximately 04:00 on Friday, 15 April 2016, Israeli forces moved into Bab Hittah neighbourhood, which is one of the Old city neighbourhoods in occupied East Jerusalem. They raided and searched several houses from which they arrested Ghaith Ayman Abu Haidar (23) and Mohammed Anwar Sharifah (22).

At approximately 08:00 on Friday, Nour Abu Hadwan (16) and Saif al­Tawel (16) turned themselves in to al­Ramlah prison upon an Israeli court ruling after they served their 9­ month house arrest sentence for each. It should be mentioned that on Thursday, 14 April 2016, the Israeli District court held a hearing for the 2 children in which the judge ordered them to turn themselves in to al­Ramlah prison in order to bring them to trial. Abu Hadwan and al­Tawel are among 10 Jerusalemite children from Beit Hanenah neighbourhood, north of the city, who were arrested in June 2015 and were released after two weeks of investigation on condition that they spend their house arrest period. During the past months, the children were denied access to school and their rights to the freedom of movement and medical treatment. Moreover, their families were exposed to daily house raids by the Israeli intelligence service to make sure the 2 children were serving their house arrest. It should be mentioned that on 10 April 2016, 4 of the 10 children turned themselves in to al­Ramlah prison to spend their sentences.

At approximately 19:00 on the same Friday, Israeli forces moved into al­‘Esawiyah village, northwest of occupied Jerusalem, from the eastern entrance. They stationed in Hosh Obaid while firing rubber­coated metal bullets and tear gas canisters. As a result, an old woman suffered tear gas inhalation while at home. They then arrested Shadi Samir Obaid (23).

At approximately 01:00 on Saturday, 16 April 2016, Israeli forces moved into Wadi al­ Jawouz neighbourhood, west of the Old City of occupied East Jerusalem. They deployed in al­Maqdesi street and then moved into Shams Eiden al­Asyouti street. They raided a number of houses nearby and then arrested Jehad Sa’edah, Fahed al­Shalabi and Aren al­Za’anin.

At approximately 21:00 on Monday, 18 April 2016, Israeli forces moved into Shu’fat neighbourhood, north of the Old City in occupied East Jerusalem. They raided and searched several houses looking for stone throwers. Israeli soldiers then arrested Naser Abu Khdair (14), Bader Abu Khdair (15) and Yazan Abu Khdair (14).

At approximately 23:00 on the same Monday, Israeli forces moved into Qalandiya refugee camp, north of East Jerusalem. They raided and searched a house belonging to Nabhan Mostafa Nabhan (22) and then arrested him.

At approximately 01:00 on Tuesday, 19 April 2016, Israeli forces moved into Ras al­ Amoud neighbourhood, east of the Old in occupied East Jerusalem. They raided and searched a house belonging to Mohammed Yahia Sahms Eiden Baitar. They then arrested his wife Halah (19) and confiscated some of their belongings.

At approximately 02:00, Israeli forces moved into al­Sa’diyah neighbourhood, one of the Old city neighbourhoods in occupied East Jerusalem. They raided and searched several houses from which they arrested Mahmoud Awsha’ Mona (20) and his cousin Ahmed Talal Mona (19).

At approximately 23:00 on Thursday, 19 April 2016, Israeli forces moved into al­‘Esawiyah village, northeast of occupied Jerusalem, from all entrances and closed the village. They prevented the residents from entering or exiting the village without reason, in the meantime a Helicopter and a thermal balloon provided with cameras flied over the village. After midnight, Israeli forces moved into all neighbourhoods and raided several houses while continued to close the village until next day morning. They also maltreated the inhabitants during the house raids, damaged the houses’ contents and used verbally insulted children. Moreover, they handed summonses to dozens of civilians for interrogation.

Lawyer Mohammed Mahmoud stated that Israeli forces arrested 25 civilians from al­‘Esawiyah village, including 16 children, and transported them to al­Moscobiya and Salah Eiden police stations to interrogate them. The arrested civilians were identified as Mohammed Abed Atiyah (15), Ali Amjad Atiyah (15), Ahmed Yusuf Obaid (15), Husain Abed Darwish (15), Yazan Khaled Na’aji (15), Odai Ali Durbas (14), Mohammed Tha’er Suliaman (15), Feras Mahmoud (17), Ahmed Jamjoum (13), Mhamoud Hijazi (14) Mohammed Khaled Mhamoud (12), Ahmed Atiyah (19), Bashar Mahmoud (17), Ahmed Mahmoud (13), Yasen Suboh (21), Dawoud Atiyah (17) Ahmed Abu Khalaf (13) Montaser Jaber (17), Amir Mohammed Dari (32), Mousa Darwesh (21) Khaled Mahmoud (27), Mahmoud Derbas (21), Mo’tasem Abu Riyalah (23), Wadi’ Abu al­ Hums (23) and Mahmoud Fayez Mahmoud (21).

Mohammed al­Hummus, member of the Follow­up Committee in al­‘Esawiyah village, said that Israeli forces handed more than 20 youngsters summonses to investigate them in the Israeli police stations. He also mentioned that they confiscated 2 vehicles. They also fixed posters to shops and walls warning against the so­called “incitement wave led by Hamas Movement and anti­discipline acts”.

House demolitions and demolition notices:

On Friday morning, 15 April 2016, Israeli forces accompanied with the occupation municipality crews moved into several neighbourhoods in Selwan village, south of occupied East Jerusalem. They distributed administrative demolition orders in the village, after they took photos of some neighbourhoods and entrances in addition to houses and facilities.

An eyewitness said that the Israeli municipality crews fixed a demolition order on a house in al­ Bustan neighbourhood in the village. The house residents said that the demolition order was issued against an unknown woman which reflects the random decisions and demolition orders issued by the Israeli authorities.

They also handed Abdul Karem Shauokhi a demolition order to his commercial facility which is a car wash. Shauokhi said, “The municipality crews raided the facility and fixed a demolition order and took photos of the facility, workers and vehicles. They also checked IDs of the workers. It should be noted that 3 families make out their living from this commercial facility.

On Saturday morning, 16 April 2016, Israeli forces accompanied with municipality crews moved into Silwan village, south of the Old City in occupied East Jerusalem. They distributed 18 demolition notices in al­Bustan neighbourhood in the village and took photos of a number of other neighbourhoods and streets.

Fakhri Abu Diab, a member of the Defence Committee of Salwan lands, said that Israeli forces raided the village for the second consecutive time and handed a number of families administrative demolition notices. It should be noted that the notified houses were years ago and their owners have been paying construction fines to the municipality.

Yassin al­Rajabi said that Israeli forces handed him a demolition order for his house that was built 20 years ago and is inhabited by 8 members. It should be mentioned al­Rajabi house consists of 4 rooms. Moreover, Israeli forces ordered him to remove the poster of his son, who is a former prisoner, and threatened to arrest him. Mohammed Halesi stated that Israeli forces handed him an administrative demolition notice for his 110­square­meter house that consists of 3 rooms was built in November 2014.

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

Israeli forces’ attacks:

At approximately 06:30, on Thursday, 14 April 2016, Israeli forces accompanied with a military jeep from the Israeli Construction and Organization Department in the Israeli Civil Administration, and bulldozer moved into East Barta’a village, west of Jenin. They surrounded two different facilities belonging to Basem Fathi Wajeeh ‘Amarna (34) and Mostafa Khadir Fares Qabha (47). In the meantime, dozens of civilians gathered in the area to prevent the Israeli forces from demolishing the facilities and threw stones at them. Israeli force fortified in their vehicles directly fired tear gas canisters and sound bombs at the stone­throwers to disperse them. As a result, one of protesters was directly hit with a tear gas canister (PCHR keeps his name) and then taken to Khalil Suleiman Hospital in Jenin to receive medical treatment. Israeli forces also arrested Hasan ‘Adnan Mustafa Qabha (23) and demolished the two facilities.

At approximately 08:00, on the same day, Israeli forces accompanied with a military jeep from the Construction and Organization Department in the Israeli Civil Administration,, and a GCB bulldozer moved into Abu Sawadah area, east of al­‘Aroub refugee camp, north of Hebron. The bulldozer demolished an 80­cubic­meter water well allegedly for having no permit.

Recommendations to the International Community

PCHR emphasizes the international community’s position that the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, are still under Israeli occupation, in spite of Israeli military redeployment outside the Gaza Strip in 2005. PCHR further confirms that Israeli forces continued to impose collective punishment measures on the Gaza Strip, which have escalated since the 2006 Palestinian parliamentary elections, in which Hamas won the majority of seats of the Palestinian Legislative Council. PCHR stresses that there is international recognition of Israel’s obligation to respect international human rights instruments and the international humanitarian law, especially the Hague Regulations concerning the Laws and Customs of War on Land and the Geneva Conventions. Israel is bound to apply the international human rights law and the law of war sometime reciprocally and other times in parallel in a way that achieves the best protection for civilians and remedy for victims.

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 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; 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 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;

…………………………………………………………

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.