Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (04­ 10 February 2016)

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

(04 – 10 February 2016)

Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (04­ 10 February 2016)

Israeli forces continued to use excessive force in the oPt 2 children were killed in the southern West Bank. 17 Palestinian civilians, including 8 children, were wounded in the West Bank and Gaza Strip.

Israeli forces conducted 94 incursions into Palestinian communities in the West Bank and a limited one in the southern Gaza Strip. 78 Palestinian civilians, including 13 children, were arrested. Twenty­one of them, including 7 children, were arrested in occupied Jerusalem.

Jewish majority efforts continued in occupied East Jerusalem. The Israeli government issued a decision to close and seize houses of 4 Palestinian prisoners from Sour Baher village.

Settlement activities continued in the West Bank. 2 agricultural rooms, a water tank and water and electricity networks in Bil’in village, west of Ramallah, were demolished. 11 dwellings, 6 livestock tents and 6 barns in the northern and southern Jordan Valley were demolished. 3 residential tents in Sousya village, south of Yatta, were confiscated. 12 residential tents, 6 barns and 6 fodder storehouses in Kherbet Tana, east of Nablus. 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. 3 Palestinian civilians, including a child, were arrested at military checkpoints.

Summary

Israeli violations of international law and international humanitarian law in the oPt continued during the reporting period (04 – 10 February 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 2 Palestinian children in Halhoul and al­Aroub refugee camp, south of the West Bank, and wounded 17 others, including 8 children. Fifteen of them, including 7 children, were wounded in the West Bank while the 2 others, including a child, were wounded in the Gaza Strip. Concerning the nature of injuries, 11 Palestinians were hit with live bullets and their shrapnel, 5 others were hit with rubber­coated metal bullets and a child was wounded as an Israeli military jeep deliberately ran over him.

In the West Bank, Israeli forces killed 2 Palestinian children, north of Hebron, and wounded 15 others, including 7 children. Nine of them were hit with live bullets and their shrapnel, 5 others were hit with rubber­coated metal bullets and one was run over by a military jeep.

On 05 February 2016, in excessive use of lethal force, Israeli forces killed Haitham Sa’da (15) and arrested anther, both are from Halhoul, north of Hebron. Israeli forces claimed that both of them intended to throw a Molotov cocktail at an Israeli military vehicle on Bypass Road (60). An eyewitness said that the area was clam and there were no clashes when the gunfire was heard.

On 10 February 2016, Israeli forces killed Omer Madi (16), from al­Aroub refugee camp, north of Hebron, when Israeli soldiers stationed at a military watchtower on Bypass road (60), opened fire at a number of school boys that threw stones at the soldiers. One of the school boys was killed as a result.

Concerning the circumstances during which Palestinian civilians were wounded, 6 civilians, including 2 children, were wounded during peaceful protests organized against the cordon imposed on Qabatya village, southeast of Jenin. Moreover, a child was wounded during an Israeli incursion into Salfit and 2 brothers were wounded in Taqou’ village, southeast of Bethlehem. In addition, 4 children were wounded during protests organized in al­Naqqar neighbourhood, near the annexation wall, west of Qalqilya; in the vicinity of “Etamar” settlement, east of Nablus; and at the southern entrance to al­Jalazoun refugee camp, north of Ramallah. Two other children were wounded during Kufor Qaddoum weekly protest, northeast of Qalqilya.

In the Gaza Strip, Israeli forces wounded 2 Palestinian civilians, including a child, during a protest organized near the border fence between the Gaza Strip and Israel, east of al­Bureij refugee camp, while another was wounded during a protest organized in the east of Jabalia, north of the Gaza Strip.

Incursions: During the reporting period, Israeli forces conducted at least 94 military incursions into Palestinian communities in the West Bank and 9 ones in occupied East Jerusalem and its suburbs. During these incursions, Israeli forces arrested at least 78 Palestinian civilians, including 13 children. Twenty­one of them, including 7 children, were arrested in East Jerusalem.

During the reporting period, after 3 civilians from Qabatya village, southeast of Jenin, carried out an armed attack in occupied Jerusalem, on 03 February 2016, the Israeli Knesset decided to carry out a military operation in the said village. In view of this decision, the Israeli forces cordoned the village for 3 consecutive days, raided houses and arrested a number of civilians. Moreover, they withdrew permits to enter Israel from the village workers and traders.

In the Gaza Strip, on 04 February 2016, Israeli forces moved about 100 meters into al­Shouka village, southeast of Rafah. They levelled and combed lands in the area and withdrew later.

Efforts to Create Jewish Majority

In the context of collective punishment measures, on 07 February 2016, the Home Frond Command in the Israeli government issued decisions to close and seize houses of 4 Palestinian prisoners from East Jerusalem, whom were accused of killing a settler in September 2015 by throwing stones at his vehicle.

Concerning house demolitions and demolition notices, on 08 February 2016, Israeli forces accompanied by municipality vehicles moved into al­Eisawiya village, northeast of occupied Jerusalem. They municipality officers randomly distributed administrative demolition notices to dozens of houses. It should be noted that those houses were built 5­20 years ago and obtained building permits from the Israeli municipality.

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:

On 04 February 2016, Israeli forces moved into Abu Lemon Nature Reserve, west of Bil’in village, west of Ramallah. Two bulldozers demolished 2 agricultural rooms, a water tank, water and electricity networks and public toilets that were built 4 years ago. It should be noted that this land was returned by Israeli forces to its owners following a decision from the Israeli Supreme Court 5 years ago.

On the same day, Israeli forces moved into Thera’a Awad in the northern Jordan Valley. Two bulldozers immediately demolished dwellings and livestock barns belonging to 2 families residing in that area. Moreover, the bulldozers demolished 4 residential tents, 7 livestock tents, 4 livestock barns, 2 kitchens, 2 rest rooms, 2 water tanks and steel partitions.

Also on the same day, Israeli forces moved into Sousya village, south of Yatta, southeast of Hebron. They demolished and confiscated 3 residential tents belonging to Nasser Ishraiteh under the pretext of non­licensing. It should be noted that the Israeli authorities demolished 2 residential tents belonging to the same person in the same area on 02 January 2016.

On 08 February 2016, Israeli forces handed notices over to the owners of 4 houses in Deir Ballout village, west of Salfit, and owners of 10 residential rooms in Kherbet al­Markaz, southeast of Yatta, southwest of Hebron, to halt construction works under the pretext they are located in area (C) according to Oslo Accords.

On 09 February 2016, Israeli forces moved into Kherbet Tana, east of Beit Foreek, east of Nablus. They demolished 12 residential tents, 6 livestock barns and 6 fodder storehouses and confiscated a vehicle belonging to a Palestinian civilian. It should be noted that this is the 4th time these facilities have been demolished between 2014 and 2016 to dismiss its occupants.

On 10 February 2016, Israeli forces demolished 3 residential barracks, water and electricity networks and 2 livestock barns, west of al­Jiftlek village, north of Jericho.

On the same day, Israeli forces demolished 4 residential tents in the northern Jordan Valley belonging to Kayed al­Salameen. It should be noted that this is the second time these tents were demolished in less than a week and without prior notice.

Details

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

Thursday, 04 February 2016

At approximately 01:30, Israeli forces moved into Balatah refugee camp, east of Nablus. They raided and searched many houses. They arrested Khalid ‘Ataa al­‘Adawi (30) and withdrew later. At approximately 03:00, Israeli forces moved into Jericho and made their way into the city streets, south of Jericho. They then moved into ‘Aqabat Jaber refugee camp and raided and searched a house belonging to Ahmed Khalil Ali al­Shiekh Ibrahim (26). They arrested him and withdrew later taking him to an unknown destination. At approximately 06:00, Israeli forces, accompanied by military vehicles and bulldozers, moved into al­Shawka village, 100 meters away from the Gaza International Airport, southeast of Rafah. At approximately 16:00, Israeli bulldozers levelled the area before their redeployment along the border fence.

At approximately 20:55, Israeli forces moved into Askaka village, east of Salfit. They raided the village council and confiscated the recording device of the surveillance cameras. In the meantime, Israeli forces raided and searched a house belonging to Ramzi Harb, from which they arrested his son, Essam (22), former prisoner.

Note: During the aforementioned day, Israeli forces carried out 9 incursions in the following areas without reporting any arrests: Jaljaliya village, north of Ramallah; Kherbitha Bani Harith, northwest of Ramallah; Tarqumiya village; al­Dahirya village; Ethna village; Tafouh village; Emrish village; Abu al­‘Asja village; and Kharsa village in Hebron.

Friday, 05 February 2016

At approximately 01:30, Israeli forces moved into Beit ‘Umrah village, west of Yatta, south of Hebron. They raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Murad Bader Abdullah Ed’ais (16), who was arrested on 20 January 2016. Murad was accused of killing a female settler in her house in “Otniel” settlement on 17 January 2016. They delivered an administrative demolition notice for the family and gave them a period to challenge the decision until 09 February 2016.

At approximately 02:00, Israeli forces moved into Nablus. They raided and searched many houses. They handed the family of the two prisoners Amjad ‘Aliwy and Zaid ‘Amir notices to vacate their houses. It should be mentioned that Israeli forces accused the aforementioned civilians of opening fire at an Israeli vehicle on the road between “Itamar” settlement and Beit Foreek checkpoint, east of Nablus, on 01 October 2015. As a result, an Israeli settler and his wife were killed. Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into al­Masaken area, northeast of Nablus. They raided and searched many houses from which they arrested 3 civilians and withdrew later. The arrested persons were identified as Hassan Mohyee al­Deen Ardania (20), student at al­Najah University; Mohammed Mahmoud Samaro (22); and Shaker Hasan al­Tarter (21).

Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Kherbatha al­Mosbah village, southwest of Ramallah. They raided and searched a house belonging to Saleh Mohammed Ibrahim al­Habal (52), and arrested him.

Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Beit ‘Our al­Foqa village, southwest of Ramallah. They raided and searched a house belonging to Mohammed Ahmed Rayan (50), and arrested him. At approximately 03:00, Israeli forces moved into Koupar village, northwest of Ramallah. They raided and searched a house belonging to Anas Ahmed Yousef al­Barghuti (26), and arrested him.

In the dawn, Israeli forces moved into Rumana village, northwest of Jenin. They raided two houses belonging to Anas Ahmed Ali al­‘Amour (20); and Abed al­Kareem Mohammed al­‘Amour (21). They handed them summonses to refer to the Israeli Intelligence services in Salem camp, northwest of Jenin. In excessive use of lethal force, Israeli forces killed a Palestinian child and arrested another; both of them are from Halhoul village, north of Hebron. Israeli forces claimed that the 2 aforementioned children intended to throw a Molotov cocktail at an Israeli vehicle stationed on Bypass Road (60) adjacent to Halhoul village. An eyewitness said that the area was completely quiet and there were no clashes when the gunfire was heard. According to PCHR’s investigations and the eyewitness statement, at approximately 14:45, the abovementioned children Hitham Esma’il Mohammed Sa’da (15); and Wajdi Mousa Mohammed Sa’da (17), were coming from the eastern entrance of Halhoul village “al­Nabi Yunis”, where there were retaining walls established on the sides of the road. In the meantime, one of the Israeli soldiers deployed in the woodland opened fire at the children from a distance less than 10 meters. As a result, Hitham was wounded and fell to the ground, while his friend attempted to flee, but the soldiers arrested him. In the meanwhile, many military vehicles, including an ambulance, arrived at the area. The soldiers prevented a PRCS’s ambulance from helping the wounded child, while the Israeli soldiers did not offer him even any medical assistance. The Israeli soldiers put the child in a black plastic bag. A military ambulance delivered the killed boy to a PRCS ambulance, which took him to al­Ahli Hospital. Medical sources in the hospital stated that the aforementioned child was hit with a live bullet to the shoulder from the back, and was hit with another live bullet to the upper back, which penetrated the right lung and exited the neck. A number of eyewitnesses stated that 3 Israeli soldiers set up ambushes in the agricultural fields adjacent to Halhoul village, and at the time of gunfire the area was completely quiet and there were no clashes. In the evening, Israeli force moved into ‘Aneen village, northwest of Jenin. They raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Rdi Yehia Hasan al­Khadour (42), turned the house into a military barrack. They withdrew later and no arrests were reported.

Note: During the aforementioned day, Israeli forces carried out 5 incursions in the following areas without reporting any arrests: al­‘Oja and al­Jaftlik villages, north of Jericho; Beit Kahel village; Ethna village; and Samou’a village in Hebron.

Saturday, 06 February 2016

At approximately 02:00, Israeli forces moved intoBeit Foreek, east of Nablus. They raided and searched many houses from which they arrested Mahmoud Basaam Haj Mohammed (20) and Qusai Yunis Hanani (27).

In the dawn, Israeli forces moved into Ya’bod village, southwest of Jenin. They raided and searched a house belonging to Mo’taz Mohammed Khalid Qabha (33) and arrested him. At approximately 11:50, Israeli forces moved into Salfit. They raided al­Huda Petrol Station, confiscated the recording device of the surveillance cameras and arrested the staff. They questioned a number of persons about opening fire at al­Askaka village’s bridge, east of Salfit. Moreover, Israeli forces arrested 2 civilians but released them later. The arrested persons were identified as Kareem Ibrahim Ishteeh; and Na’eem Jihad Hassan. In the meantime, Israeli forces fired rubber­ coated metal bullets at a number of young men, who gathered in the area and threw stones at the soldiers. As a result, a 16­ year­old male was hit with a rubber­coated metal bullet to the left leg. At approximately 20:55, Israeli forces moved into Askaka village, east of Salfit. They raided the village council and confiscated the recording device of the surveillance cameras. In the meantime, they raided and searched a house belonging to Ramzi Harb and arrested his son Essam (22), a former prisoner, taking him to an unknown destination.

Note: During the aforementioned day, Israeli forces carried out 11 incursions in the following areas without reporting any arrests: Betin village, north of Ramallah; ‘Ain Ayoub area, west of Ras Karkar village, northwest of Jericho; Marj Na’jah village, north of the city; Bruqeen village, west of Salfit; Yasouf village, east of the city; Beit Ummer village; al­Moreq village; al­Koum village; Deir Samet village; and al­Hadb village in Hebron.

Sunday, 07 February 2016

At approximately 01:00, Israeli forces moved into many neighbourhoods in Hebron. They raided and searched many houses from which they arrested 3 civilians. The arrested persons were identified as Islam Yaseen al­Karki (18); Mo’az Abed al­Majeed Shabana (22); and Amjad Ali al­Hamouri (44). They handed Shadi Ghalma a summons to refer to the Israeli Intelligence service in in “Gosh ‘Etzion” settlement complex, south of Bethlehem. At approximately 02:00, Israeli forces moved into Koobar village, northwest of Ramallah. They raided and searched a house belonging to Jawdat Ahmed al­Barghouti (26) and arrested him. At approximately 02:30, Israeli forces moved into Sa’ier village, east of Hebron and stationed in Ras al­‘Aroud area. They raided and searched a house belonging to the family of Nimer al­Faroukh (44), and arrested 3 of his sons. The arrested persons were identified as Mojahed (16); Qusai (16); and Sa’d (11). In the morning, Israeli forces arrested Sa’ied Hashim Sa’ied Natour (21), from Jenin, while he was present in office of the Israeli Intelligence service, northwest of Jenin, upon a summons handed to him on 03 February 2016. At approximately 21:30, Israeli forces moved into al­Nazla village, north of Tulkarm. They raided and searched a house belonging to Mohammed Abed al­Kareem Yousef Katana (20), and handed him a summons to refer to the Israeli Intelligence service in the south west of the city.

Note: During the aforementioned day, Israeli forces carried out 5 incursions in the following areas without reporting any arrests: Tarqumiya village; Beit Ola village; al­‘Aroub refugee camp; Halhoul village; and al­Sorah village in Hebron.

Monday, 08 February 2016

At approximately 02:00, Israeli forces moved into Hawarah village, south of Nablus. They raided and searched many houses from which they arrested Ezzedine Mohammed Abu Shehadeh (19) and Mohammed Mowafaq ‘Oda (20). Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Kufor al­Deek village, west of Salfit. They raided and searched houses belonging to Saleh Ali al­Shanar; Emad Abdullah al­ Deek and Yousef ‘Essam Qa’oud; all of them are members of Hamas Movement. They withdrew later and no arrests were reported.

At approximately 02:30, Israeli forces moved into Deir Balout village, west of Salfit. They raided and searched a house belonging to Naser Abed al­Jawad, member of the Palestinian Legislative Council (PLC) representing the Change and Reform Bloc of Hamas movement. They withdrew later and no arrests were reported. Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Tulkarm refugee camp adjacent to Tulkarm. They raided and searched many houses from which they arrested 3 civilians. The arrested persons were identified as Wael Khalil Abed al­Latif Habali (25); Isma’il Yousef Mahmoud Othman (22) and Abed al­Rahman Mohammed Abu ‘Asba (29).

At approximately 04:00, Israeli forces moved into ‘Aida refugee camp, north of Bethlehem. They raided and searched 2 houses belonging to the families of Mohammed Fayiz Talal al­Dibs (16) and Jamil Riyad Malash (15). They arrested them and withdrew later taking them to an unknown destination. Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Qabatia village, south of Jenin and stationed in al­Damoni Mount area. They raided and searched 2 houses belonging to Mohammed Rashid Kamil (20) and Mohammed Ziyad Abu al­Rub (20). Both of them were arrested. At approximately 06:00, Israeli forces moved into al­Khadir village, southwest of Bethlehem. They raided and searched many houses from which they arrested 3 civilians. The arrested persons were identified as Shihada Mohammed Salah (25); Mohammed Rizeq Marzouq Salah (20) and Mojahid Yaseen Da’dou’ (18).

Note: During the aforementioned day, Israeli forces carried out 9 incursions in the following areas without reporting any arrests: Halhoul village; Yatta village; al­Majd village; al­Burj village; Deir Samet village in Hebron; Jaljilya village; Kherbitha Bani Harith village; Betin village; and Ras Karkar village in Ramallah and al­Bireh.

Tuesday, 09 February 2016

At approximately 01:25, Israeli forces moved into Qalqilya. They raided and searched 2 houses belonging to ‘Adil Abu Maghaseeb al­Ghazawi (31) and Fares Abed al­Raheem Mohammed Abu Zebin (35). At approximately 03:40, they confiscated 2 PC sets and cell phones, after which, they arrested the abovementioned civilians. At approximately 01:30, Israeli forces moved into many neighbourhoods in the centre of Hebron, and then stationed in al­Numra neighborhood. They raided and searched 2 houses belonging to Mohammed ‘Azam al­Hadad (22) and Anas Nimer Mujahed (21). They arrested them and then withdrew taking them to an unknown destination.

At approximately 02:00, Israeli forces moved into Bil’in village, west of Ramallah. They raided and searched 2 houses belonging to Shara Hasan Dawoud Mansour (32) and Mohammed Adeeb Abu Rahma (23). They arrested them and then withdrew taking them to an unknown destination. At approximately 02:30, Israeli forces moved into Beit ‘Ummer village, north of Hebron, and stationed in Ras al­‘Ain neighbourhood. They raided and searched a house belonging to Nasri Sabarna and arrested 3 of his sons. The arrested persons were identified as Rasheed (31); Yousef (29); and Rushdi (25).

At approximately 03:00, Israeli forces moved into Tamoun village, southeast of Toubas. They raided and searched a house belonging to Mohammed Hussain Basharat (27) and arrested him.

Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Tulkarm. They raided and searched a house belonging to Mostafa Abed al­Rahman Mohammed Abed al­Qadir (41), a Civil Defence officer, and arrested him. Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into ‘Arora village, northwest of Ramallah. They raided and searched 3 houses from which they arrested 3 civilians. The arrested persons were identified as Hamada Saleh ‘Arori (29); Saleh Sabri ‘Arori (23) and Abdullah Taiseer ‘Arori (29). Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Beit Fajjar village, south of Bethlehem. They raided and searched many houses from which they arrested 2 civilians. The arrested persons were identified as ‘Ayid Mohammed Taqatqa (16) and Fadi Fayiz Taqatqa (21). At approximately 03:30, Israeli forces moved into Sayda village, north of Tulkarm. They raided and searched a house belonging to Shadoun Ameen Mostafa Ashqar (19) and arrested him.

At approximately 07:00, Israeli forces opened fire at two brothers while they were over the roof of their house in Taqou’ village, southeast of Bethlehem. As a result, the two brothers were hit with live bullets to the thighs and were then taken to Beit Jala Hospital to receive medical treatment.

Note: During the aforementioned day, Israeli forces carried out 5 incursions in the following areas without reporting any arrests: Salfit; Ethna village; Bani Na’iem village; al­Moreq village; and al­Fawar refugee camp in Hebron.

Wednesday, 10 February 2016

At approximately 01:30, Israeli forces moved into Jenin and al­Fawar refugee camp adjacent to the city. They raided and searched a house belonging to Abed al­Salam Mohammed Abu al­Haijaa (40) and arrested him.

At approximately 02:00, Israeli forces moved into Bethlehem and stationed in al­Saf street. They raided a house belonging to Qasim al­Masri, and handed his son Salem (24) a summons to refer to the Israeli Intelligence service in “Gosh ‘Etzion” settlement complex, south of Bethlehem.

Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into al­Salam neighbourhood in Hebron. They raided and searched a house belonging to Dawoud Salah Abu Halawa (25) and arrested him.

At approximately 03:00, Israeli forces moved into Nahaleen village, west of Bethlehem. They raided and searched many houses from which they arrested 3 civilian. The arrested persons were identified as Mahmoud Mohammed Najajrah (50) and his son Nazim (27); and Ahmed Jawdat Najajrah (22).

At approximately 04:00, Israeli forces moved into al­Dahisha refugee camp, south of Bethlehem. They raided and searched many houses from which they arrested 3 civilians. The arrested persons were identified as Mohammed Ibrahim Zawahra (25); Ali Abed al­ Hameed al­Tous (19) and Mahmoud Ya’qoub al­Souti (24).

At approximately 11:30, a number of school students from al­‘Aroub refugee camp, north of Hebron, gathered near the western entrance of the camp, to which the stone­throwers daily go. An Israeli soldier stationed in a military watchtower established on the road, fired 2 live bullets at the students from around 200 meter. As a result, Omar Yusuf Isma’il Madi (16) was wounded and fell to the ground. A number of civilians then took him by a private car to a medical centre in the camp, after which, the wounded was taken by a PRCS ambulance to al­Mizan Hospital in Hebron, where he was pronounced dead later. Medical sources stated that the abovementioned male was hit with a live bullet to the upper right side of his chest. The bullet entered the heart causing arterial laceration and then exited the left side causing internal bleeding.

Note: During the aforementioned day, Israeli forces carried out 5 incursions in the following areas without reporting any arrests: Sa’ier village; Beit Kahel village; Beit Ola village; Beit ‘Awaa village in Hebron; Tulkarm; ‘Alara village; north of Tullarm; and Kufor Ra’i village, southwest of Jenin.

Collective Punishment Measures in Qabatia village

On 03 February 2016, three civilians from Qabatia village, southeast of Jenin, carried out an armed attack in occupied Jerusalem. As a result, an Israeli female soldier was killed, and another was wounded, while the Palestinian civilians, who carried out the attack, were killed. Moreover, Israeli Knesset decided carrying out an armed operation in the aforementioned village.

At approximately 04:00 on Thursday, 04 February 2016, Israeli forces moved into Qabatia village, after the closure of all the village entrances with sand barriers and preventing civilians from entering and exiting the village. They raided dozens of houses, including the victims’ houses. Additionally, they arrested 7 civilians, who were identified as:

1. Mo’tasim Mahmoud Suliman Kamil (18), 2. Ahmed Bilal Abed al­‘Afou Nazal (17), 3. Mo’min Nasri Mohammed Abu al­Rub (19), 4. Tareq Ahmed Mohammed Kamil (17), 5. Sari Mohammed Ahmed Abu Ghrab (26), 6. Mohammed Ahned Helmi Kamil (20), and 7. Ahmed Rashid Kamil (47).

In the morning, Israeli forces stationed at the village entrances, while the village was still cordoned. The village market (al­Hesbah) and other shops established at the western entrance of the village were closed due the intense Israeli military presence. In the meantime, dozens of young men gathered and threw stones and empty bottles at the soldiers stationed in al­Hesbah area. Israeli soldiers fired tear gas canisters, sound bombs, and live bullets at the stone­ throwers. As a result, 3 civilians, including a child, sustained shrapnel wounds. Furthermore, a 16­year­old male was run over by an Israeli military vehicle, due to which, he was wounded in the head and suffered from bruises throughout his body. After which, he was taken to al­Razi Hospital in Jenin, where his injuries were classified as serious.

On Friday, 05 February 2016, the Israeli armed operation has continued for the second day against Qabatia village. Israeli forces raided and searched many houses from which they arrested 5 civilians. The arrested persons were identified as:

1. Rami As’ad Kamil (21), 2. Jasir ‘Amaar Hasan ‘Awidat (21), and his brother Mahmoud (19), 3. Ramiz As’ad Henti (20), and 4. Anas Kamil (20).

The cordon imposed on the village has remained, whereas the only outlet of this village, Qabatia­American University road, was closed with sand barriers as well. Furthermore, they surrounded a 4­storey building belonging to Taza’za family. The abovementioned building is inhabited by 8 families that were prevented from entering and exiting the building. Anyone who was attempting to access the building, were exposed to tear gas canisters and sound bombs. It should be mentioned that Taza’za family was kept indoors until the next day evening. The Palestinian Military Liaison ccoordinated with the Israeli side to allow a vehicle belonging to Qabatia Municipality to access the building and offer basic needs to the residents. In the evening, clashes erupted between Israeli forces stationed at the main entrance of the village, and Palestinian civilians. As a result, 3 civilians from Jenin were arrested and were identifies as Hamza Sayel Sabri Jarar (30), who was hit with a live bullet to the side; Mo’tasim Mohammed Sabri Barbour (20) and Ramiz Naser Saleem al­Asmar (24).

On Saturday, 06 February 2016, the cordon imposed on the village has continued, and the clashes between the soldiers and civilians have continued as well. In the afternoon, a demonstration started from Jenin in protest at the cordon imposed on Qabatia village. When the protesters arrived at the entrance of the village, Israeli forces fired tear gas canisters, sound bombs and rubber­coated metal bullets at the protesters. As a result, Jamal Shati Yousef al­Hindi, PLC member, was hit with a rubber­coated metal bullet to the abdomen. Moreover, Israeli forces arrested Sa’eb Ahmed Mohammed Abu Jomhour (19) and Ahmed Shaher Mostafa ‘Alawna (19), both of them are from Jenin. In the evening, Israeli forces declared the end of the armed operation against Qabatia and withdrew later. In the context of the Israeli collective punishment measures against Qabatia village, on Sunday, 07 February 2016, Israeli forces withdrew the workers’ permits at al­Jalama crossing, between Jenin and Israel, northeast of the city. According to PCHR’s investigations, in the morning, Israeli forces stationed at the abovementioned checkpoint withdrew the workers’ and traders’ permits. This came one day after the 3­day cordon was ended.

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

West Bank:

At approximately 17:00, on Thursday, 04 February 2016, dozens of young men gathered in al­Naqar neighborhood near the annexation wall, west of Qalqilya. The protesters threw stones at the soldiers, who fired live bullets, rubber­coated metal bullets, tear gas canisters and sound bomb at them in response. As a result, 16­year­old male was hit with a rubber­coated metal bullet to the right thigh. Following the Friday prayer, on 05 February 2016, a peaceful demonstration started from the center of Beit Foreek village, east of Nablus, and headed to a military site established on al­Qa’da Mount near “Itamar” settlement, east of Beit Foreek village. The protesters threw stones and empty bottles at the site, due to which, the soldiers fired live bullets and rubber­coated metal bullets at the protesters and chased them into the fields. As a result, 13­year­old male was hit with 2 live bullets to the legs and was then taken to Rafidia Hospital to receive medical treatment. On Friday, 05 February 2016, dozens of Palestinian young men gathered at the southern entrance to al­Jalazoun refugee camp, north of Ramallah, near an UNRWA school for boys, 300 meters away from the fence of “Beit Eil” 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 ammunition, rubber­coated metal bullets, sound bombs and tear gas canisters at the protesters and then chased them into the camp. As a result, 2 children were wounded, the first one (16), was hit with a rubber­coated metal bullet, while the second (17), was hit with a rubber­coated metal bullet to the head as well.

Following the Friday prayer, dozens of Palestinian young men organized a peaceful demonstration in solidarity with Mohammed al­Qeeq, the detained journalist hunger striking in the Israeli jails, on the road between Selwad and Yabroud villages, northeast of Ramallah; and in the vicinity of Ofer prison, southwest of the city. Israeli forces fired live bullets, rubber­coated metal bullets, tear gas canisters and sound bombs at the protester. As a result, many civilians suffered tear gas inhalation.

Gaza Strip:

At approximately 14:00 on Friday, 05 February 2016, dozens of Palestinian young men headed to the border area between the Gaza Strip and Israel, east of al­Burij refugee camp, in the centre of the Gaza Strip. The protesters threw stones at the soldiers stationed along the border fence. The soldiers stationed behind sand barriers opened fire at them in response. As a result, Iyad Ihab Hafiz Abu Hijayer (13), was hit with a live bullet to the pelvis. He was then taken to al­Aqsa Hospital in Deir al­Balah, where his injuries were classified as serious. At approximately 02:30 on Friday, Israeli forces stationed along the border fence between the Gaza Strip and Israel, fired live bullets, rubber­coated metal bullets and tear gas canisters at dozens of young men gathered near the fence, east of al­Shuhad cemetery, east of Jabalia, north of the Gaza Strip. The protesters threw stones at the soldiers in protest at the Israeli attacks against the Palestinian civilians in the Gaza Strip and West Bank. As a result of the clashes that continued until 18:00, Shadi Abed al­Hadi Abed al­Kareem Kharwat (19), from Beit Hanoun, was hit with a live bullet to the left leg and was then taken by a PRCS ambulance to the Indonesian Hospital, where his injuries were classified as moderate.

Demonstrations against the annexation wall and settlement activities

At approximately 13:30 on Friday, 05 February 2016, Palestinian civilians and Israeli and international human rights activists organized a protest in the center 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, sound bombs and tear gas canisters at the protesters. As a result, 2 civilians were wounded, the first one (29), was hit with a live bullet to the right thigh, while the second (26), was hit with a live bullet to the right thigh as well. Following the Friday prayer, dozens of Palestinian civilians and Israeli and international human rights activists 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 and chased them into agricultural fields. As a result, many civilians suffered tear gas inhalation and others sustained bruises as Israeli soldiers beat them up.

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 4,623 Humanitarian aid 19,661 Cooking gas 222,710 Benzene 301,000 Diesel 856,000 02 February Diesel for UNRWA 38.000

Industrial fuel 306,008 Construction aggregates 15,320 Cement 3,360 Construction steel 90 Various goods 4,038.92 Humanitarian aid 20,905 Cooking gas 242,550 Benzene 375,976 03 February Diesel 921,998

Diesel for UNRWA 67,000

Industrial fuel 486,006 Construction aggregates 6,680 Cement 4,200 Construction steel 570 Various goods 4,971.28 Humanitarian aid 20,433 Cooking gas 223,740 Benzene 225,000 Diesel 715,990 04 February Diesel for UNRWA 38,000

Industrial fuel 192,013 Construction aggregates 14,600 Cement 4,400 Construction steel 300 Various goods 3,481.32 Humanitarian aid 21,130 Cooking gas 143,800 Benzene 222,000

Benzene for UNRWA 38,000 07 February Diesel 785,996

Diesel for UNRWA 38,000

Industrial fuel 452,704 Construction aggregate 15,880 Cement 3,960 Construction steel 660 Various goods 2,732.5 Humanitarian aid 18,386 Cooking gas 245,710 Benzene 295,990 08 February Diesel 895,006

Diesel for UNRWA 76,000

Industrial fuel 624,410 Construction aggregates 14,760 Cement 2,160 Construction steel 330

Exports:

On Tuesday, 02 February 2016, Israeli forces allowed the exportation of 5 tons of strawberries; 31,480 tons of tomatoes; 45.360 tons of cucumbers; 11.360 tons of peppers, 6.4 tons of eggplants; 1.200 tons of cabbages; 1.120 tons of Rutab dates; 6.16 tons of zucchinis and 3.64 tons of sweet potatoes. On Wednesday, 03 February 2016, Israeli forces allowed the exportation of 0.45 tons of garlic; 0.300 tons of mints; 0.100 tons of tarragon and 44 tons of lemon. On Thursday, 04 February 2016, Israeli forces allowed the exportation of 8 tons of strawberries; 45 tons of tomatoes; 30 tons of cucumbers; 15 tons of peppers; 4 tons of eggplants; 1 tons of cabbages; 5 tons of Rutab dates; 3 tons of zucchinis and 7 tons of clothes. On Sunday, 07 February 2016, Israeli forces allowed the exportation of 3 truckloads of strawberries and 28 truckloads of vegetables. On Monday, 08 February 2016, Israeli forces allowed the exportation of 1 tons of fish and 16 tons of lemons.

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

Movement at Beit Hanoun (“Erez”) crossing

03 – 08 February 2016

03 04 06 07 08 Category 05 February February February February February February Patients 56 53 3 – 77 74 Companions 52 44 3 – 72 70 Personal needs 105 108 33 – 44 66 Families – – – – – 26 of prisoners

Arabs from 4 4 4 – – 4 Israel

Diplomats – – – – – – International – – – – – – journalists International 34 56 9 – 3 12 workers Travelers abroad – 24 – – 18 2

Business 314 371 5 – 353 399 people Business – – – – – – meetings Security 22 20 – – 15 14 interviews VIPs – 3 – – 1 – Ambulances 3 3 1 – 3 4 to Israel

Patients’ 3 3 1 – 3 4 Companions

Notes:

On Friday, 05 February 2016, Israeli authorities allowed 164 Palestinians to travel via Beit Hanoun crossing to perform prayers in al­Aqsa Mosque. On Wednesday, 03 February 2016, Israeli authorities allowed ones person to renew his permit, while on Monday, 08 February 2016, allowed another to pass for the same reason. On Wednesday, 03 February 2016, Israeli authorities allowed one person working in the Civil Affairs Department to attend a meeting at the crossing. On Sunday, 07 February 2016, another person working in the Civil Affairs Department was allowed to attend a meeting at the crossing

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 24 checkpoints all over the city. On Thursday, 04 February 2016, Israeli forces established 5 checkpoints the northern entrance to Hahoul, southern entrance to Hebron connected with Bypass Road (60), northern entrance to Yata and the entrances to Sa’ir and Beit Ummar villages.

On Friday, 05 February 2016, Israeli forces established 3 checkpoints at the entrances to al­ Fawwar refugee camp, the entrances to al­Samou’a and Beit Kahel villages, south and northwest of the city.

On Saturday, 06 February 2016, Israeli forces established 3 checkpoints at the northern entrance to Yata and the entrances to Taramah and Kharas villages. On Sunday, 08 February 2016, Israeli forces established 3 checkpoints on the road to Hasakah village, south of Halhoul, Beit al­Roush village and the entrance to al­Burj village

On Monday, 08 February 2016, Israeli forces established 3 checkpoints at the southern entrance to Hebron and entrances to Beit ‘Awwa and Deir Razeh villages.

On Tuesday, 09 February 2016, Israeli forces established 3 checkpoints at the entrance to al­‘Aroub refugee camp and entrances to Bani Na’im and al­Thaheriyah villages.

On Wednesday, 10 February 2016, Israeli forces established 4 checkpoints on Abu Rishah Valley Road, west of Ethna village, and in the villages of Tafouh, al­Karmel and Sa’ir.

Ramallah and al­Bireh: Israeli forces established 9 checkpoints all over the city. On Monday, 08 February 2016, Israeli forces established 3 checkpoints at the northern entrance to ‘Ein Sinia village, the entrance to Senjel village and under the bridge of Yabruud village, northeast of the city.

On Tuesday, 09 February 2016, Israeli forces established 4 checkpoints at the entrance to al­ Nabi Saleh village, northwest of Ramallah, and near the intersection of Beit Ur al­Foqa village, southwest of Ramallah, under the bridge of Kherbetha al­Mesbah village and ‘Atarah bridge at the northern entrance to Birzeit, north of the city.

On Wednesday, 10 February 2016, Israeli forces established 2 checkpoints the intersection of Beit Ur al­Foqa village and under the bridge of Kherbetha al­Mesbah village, southwest of Ramallah.

Jenin: At approximately 16:30 on Sunday, 07 February 2016, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the entrance to Kafr Qoud village, west of Jenin. At approximately 16:00 on Monday, 08 February 2016, Israeli forces established another checkpoint at the entrance to Kfeiret village, southwest of the city as well. Qalqilya: Israeli forces established 13 checkpoints all over the city. On Thursday, 04 February 2016, Israeli forces established 2 checkpoints at the eastern entrance to Qalqilya and at the southern entrance to the city. On Friday, 05 February 2016, two similar checkpoints were established at the eastern entrance to Qalqilya in different times.

On Sunday, 07 February 2016, Israeli forces established 3 checkpoints at the entyrance to ‘Azoun ‘Etmah, south of Qalqilya; the eastern entrance to Qalqilya and southern entrance to the city. On Monday, 08 February 2016, 5 checkpoints were established at the entrances to ‘Azoun and ‘Azoun ‘Etmah villages, under the bridge of ‘Azoun village, at the entrance to Jeet village and at the intersection of ‘Ezbet al­Tabib, east of the city. At approximately 17:00 on Tuesday, 09 February 2016, Israeli forces established an iron gate and cement cubes at the entrance to Kafr Laqef village, east of Qalqilya and obstructed the traffic.

Tulkarm: at approximately 14:00 on Sunday, 07 February 2016, Israeli forces stationed at ‘Inab 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 the aforementioned checkpoint. The tightening recurred at approximately 09:30 on Monday, 08 February 2016.

At approximately 19:30 on Monday, 01 February 2016, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the entrance to the Western Nazlah village, north of Tulkarm. At approximately 19:00 on Monday, 08 Feburary 2016, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the entrance to Qofein village while another checkpoint was established at the entrance to the Western Nazlah village, north of Tulkarm at approximately 20:30.

Arrests at checkpoints

On Thursday morning, 04 February 2016, Israeli forces arrested Hisham As’ad Mohammed Na’alwah (14), who was near the annexation wall established on the lands of Shwikah village, north of Tulkarm. Hisham’s mother said that her son left the house at approximately 07:00 heading to school. However, she was surprised in the afternoon when she received a call from someone introducing himself as an Israeli officer. He told her that her son was arrested by Israeli force in “Ariel” settlement, north of Salfit. On the same day, the Israeli police arrested Hisham’s father, As’ad (47) and his son Haitham (23) from their workplaces in Israel.

On the same day, Israeli police stationed at the entrance to Bani Na’im village, east of Hebron arrested Mohammed Ahmed Rashid al­Fakhouri (22) after detaining him while riding a motorbike. He was then taken to an unknown destination.

At approximately 23:00 on Sunday, 08 February 2016, Israeli forces arrested Rami Ibrahim Abu Hammad (23) from al­Nis Valley village, south of Bethlehem, when he was near the intersection of “Gosh ‘Etzion” settlement, south of the city. He was 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:

House Demolitions on Grounds of Collective Punishment

On Sunday, 07 February 2016, the Commander of Internal Front in the Israeli Government issued decisions to close and confiscate the houses of four Jerusalemite prisoners under the pretext of killing a settler last September after throwing stones at his vehicle, which deviated from the main street and rolled over. The prisoners are: Mohammad Salah Abu Kaf (18), Mohammad Jihad Tawil (17), Walid Firas Atrash (19) and Abed Mahmoud Dwayyat (20). They are residents of the village of Sur Baher and were arrested last September and were accused of killing and causing the murder of a settler “after throwing stones at his vehicle.

According to decisions of the closure and confiscation: “Under my authority as a military commander and according to Regulation 191 of the 1945Emergency (Defence) Regulations, a decision was issued to close and confiscate the houses of the four young men in order to deter others from carrying out similar attacks.”

The father of prisoner Mohammad Salah Abu Kaf explained that his 120­square­meter apartment is on the second floor of a 4­storey building where his 8 family members live including 6 children and his sick wife. He added, “This apartment is our only shelter and the Israeli authorities have been stalking us since the arrest of our son last September.” The father of Walid Firas Al­Atrash explained that his 100­square­meter house has been established since the British Mandate. Seven family members, including 3 children, live in the house.

The mother of Mohammad Tawil explained that the family rented their house comprised of two rooms, kitchen, bathroom and living room. The house shelters 5 family members, including two children.

Tarek Dwayyat, brother of prisoner Abed Dwayyat, explained that the family received a closure and confiscation order regarding their house, which is located in the first floor of a residential building established before the occupation of Jerusalem. The house is 200 square meters and shelters 3 family members.

It should be mentioned that the Israeli Minister of Interior had ordered to withdraw the IDs of Mohammad Salah Abu Kaf (18), Mohammad Jihad Tawil (17), Walid Firas Atrash (19) two weeks ago.

Incursions and arrests

At approximately 22:00 on Thursday, 04 February 2016, Israeli forces moved into “‘Ein al­Lawzah” neighbourhood in Silwan village, south of East Jerusalem, under the pretext of searching for stone­throwers. They raided and searched a number of houses amidst Israeli firing of rubber­coated metal bullets and tear gas canisters at the residents and passers­by. They arrested Sami Medhat al­Ghazali (25) and ‘Ali Qasem al­‘Abbasi (23) and later withdrew taking them to an unknown destination.

At approximately 01:00 on Friday, 05 February 2016, Israeli forces moved into Bedou village, northwest of occupied East Jerusalem. They raided and searched a number of houses. They arrested Jihad Mousa Hmeidan and Tariq Hmeidan (27) and later withdrew taking them to an unknown destination.

At approximately 04:00 on Friday, large force of Israeli soldiers moved into Qalendia refugee camp, north of East Jerusalem. They deployed between the alleys of the camp and then raided and searched two houses belonging the families of ‘Omer ‘Assaf and ‘Anan Abu Habsah and handed them notices to demolish their houses. It should be mentioned that ‘Assaf and Abu Habsah were killed on 23 December 2015 near Hebron Gate in occupied Jerusalem after Israel forces shot them dead under the pretext of carrying out an attack against Israeli soldiers.

At approximately 02:00 on Saturday, 06 February 2016, Israeli forces raided and searched a house belonging to Jihad al­Za’atari in Ras al­‘Amoud neighbourhood, east of Jerusalem’s Old City. They arrested his son Mohammed (19) and later withdrew taking him to an unknown destination.

At approximately 14:00 on Sunday, 08 February 2016, Israeli forces arrested Mahdi Abu ‘Asab (9) and took him to an unknown destination when he was near his house in al­ Qerami neighbourhood in East Jerusalem’s Old City

At approximately 10:00 on Tuesday, 09 February 2016, Israeli forces moved into a house belonging to Khalil al­Za’atari in Ras al­‘Amoud neighbourhood, east of Jerusalem’s Old City. They arrested his son Fahmi (17) and later withdrew taking him to an unknown destination.

At approximately 12:00, Israeli forces arrested Marcel al­Salaymah (42) when she was walking on al­Wad Street in East Jerusalem’s Old City. They took her to “Al­Silsileh Gate” police station for interrogation as the Israeli police accused her of having a knife.

At approximately 01:00 on Wednesday, 10 February 2016, Israeli forces moved into al­‘Issawiyah village, northeast of occupied Jerusalem. They raided and searched a number of houses. They arrested Ahmed Abu Roumi (16); Ahmed Mohammed Abu ‘Eweis (14); ‘Oday ‘Azmi Mustafa (14) and Adam Khaled Abu Shammalah (15) and later withdrew taking them to an unknown destination.

At approximately 02:00, Israeli forces moved into Sour Baher, southeast of Jerusalem. They raided and searched a number of houses. They then arrested Loqman Ahmed ‘Atoun (21); Mos’ab ‘Alian (23) and Basel Faisal Tarshan (21) and later withdrew taking them to an unknown destination.

At approximately 04:00, Israeli forces moved into Abu Dis village, east of Jerusalem. They raided and searched a number of houses. They arrested Mohammed Hasan Wheish (18); Bahaa’ Bassah and Mohammed Hammad (19) and later withdrew taking them to an unknown destination. At approximately 05:00, Israeli forces moved into Qalendia refugee camp, north of Jerusalem. They raided and searched a number of houses. They arrested Mohammed ‘Azmi Muttair (24); Rajab No’aman Mutair (25) and ‘Atef Mutair (21) after severely beating them. Israeli forces later withdrew taking them to an unknown destination.

House demolitions and demolition notices:

At approximately 11:00 on Monday, 08 February 2016, a joint force of Israeli police and Special Forces accompanied with staffs from the municipality moved into al­‘Issawiyah village, northeast of Jerusalem. The municipality staffs randomly distributed administrative demolition notices to dozens of houses.

Mohammad Abu al­Hummus, Member of the Follow­up Committee in the village of al­ Issaweyeh, explained that the Israeli forces moved into the village from its north­eastern side and deployed in the streets. They took photos of several facilities and then fixed administrative demolition notices to 20 houses. Most of the notices did not have the name of the owner of the facility as the crews fixed the orders to the outside gates. Abu al­Hummus added that most of the houses were established 5 to 20 years ago and are licensed by the Israeli municipality. He confirmed that the staffs randomly distributed the demolition notices in the north­eastern side of the village.

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.

Israeli forces’ attacks

At approximately 02:30 on Thursday, 04 February 2016, Israeli forces accompanied with a vehicle belonging to the Israeli Construction and Organization Department in the Civil Administration and two bulldozers moved into Abu Laymoun Nature Reserve, west of Bil’in village, west of Ramallah. They imposed a military cordon on the area and prevented civilians from entering it. The two bulldozers immediately levelled two agricultural rooms, a water tank, water and electricity networks and public restrooms that were built 4 years ago. It should be mentioned that that area is part of the lands, which Israeli forces returned to their owners following a decision issued by the Israeli Supreme Court 5 years ago. Those lands are located near the annexation wall. The Israeli forces levelled the following:

1. A 24­square­meter agricultural room built of steel, wood and shade cloth and a 1­ square­meter bathroom belonging to ‘Othman Mansour ‘Ali Mansour. 2. A 12­square­meter tin­roofed agricultural room belonging to Ahmed Mohammed Hasan Hamad. 3. 5­square­meter public restrooms belonging to Bi’lin Local Council.

At approximately 09:00 on Thursday, Israeli forces accompanied with 4 vehicles belonging to the Israeli Construction and Organization Department in the Civil Administration and 2 bulldozers moved into Thera’a ‘Awwad area in the Northern Jordan Valley and only 1 kilometre away from al­Hamra checkpoint. The two bulldozers immediately levelled dwellings and livestock barns belonging to two families living in the area. They levelled the following:

1. Two 60­square­meter residential tents; two 60­square­meter tents used for livestock; a 100­square­meter livestock barn; 40­square­meter kitchen; mobile restroom; a 1.5­cubic­ meter water tank; a 200­square­meter unroofed livestock barn and 10 steel partitions. All of those structures belong to ‘Adel ‘Abdel Mahdi Ghayyad Salameen, whose family members are 9, including 7 children. 2. Two 60­square­meter residential tents; four 60­square­meter tents used for livestock; a 100­square­meter tin barrack used as a livestock barn; 40­square­meter kitchen; mobile restroom; 1.5­cubic­meter water tank; a 200­square­meter unroofed livestock barn and 10 steel partitions. All of those structures belong to Kayed Ghayyad Salameen, whose family members are 10, including 5 children.

At approximately 10:00 on the same Thursday, Israeli forces accompanied with two vehicles belonging to the Israeli Construction and Organization Department in the Civil Administration moved into Sousya village, south of Yata, southeast of Hebron. Under the pretext of building without a permit, the Civil Administration officers demolished and confiscated 3 residential tents belonging to Naser Ahmed Mahmoud Shreiteh (40); each of which is 40 square meters and were donated by ACF. The Israeli forces handed the aforementioned civilian documents to refer to the concerned authorities. It should be mentioned that the Israeli authorities demolished two residential tents belonging to the aforementioned civilian on 02 January 2016 under the pretext of building without a permit in the same area. The aforementioned civilian supports his 9 family members, including 6 children.

At approximately 07:30 on Monday, 08 February 2016, Israeli forces accompanied with a vehicle belonging to the Israeli Construction and Organization Department in the Civil Administration moved into Deir Ballut village, west of Salfit. They raided and searched 4 houses belonging to Idris Jubarah Abdullah, Noah Mershed ‘Abdullah; ‘Abdul Khaliq Rushdi ‘Abdullah; Mohammed Mershed ‘Abdullah and Ibrahim ‘Abdullah ‘Abdullah. Israeli forces handed them notices to stop construction works in their houses, which are located in Area (C) that is under the Israeli control according to 1993 Oslo Accords. No further incidents were reported.

At approximately 09:00 on Monday, Israeli forces accompanied with a vehicle belonging to the Israeli Construction and Organization Department in the Civil Administration moved into the agricultural lands adjacent to the entrance to the Beit Ummar village, north of Hebron. The Construction and Organization officer took photos of a 600­cubic­meter water well belonging to Ahmed Mohammed Saber Abu ‘Ayyash from the village. They fixed a demolition notice to the well under the pretext of being located in Area C according to Oslo Accords. At approximately 10:00 on Monday, Israeli forces accompanied with a vehicle from the Israeli Construction and Organization Department in the Civil Administration moved into Kherbet al­Markaz, southeast of Yata, southwest of Hebron. They deployed between the dwellings while the civil administration officer took photos of a number of rooms and other civil facilities donated by ACF. They handed the owners notices to stop construction works or demolition notices under the pretext of building without a permit. They levelled the following:

1. A 50­square­meter residential room built of bricks and tin belongs to Mahmoud ‘Ali Khalil Abu ‘Aram (42), who received a notice to stop construction work. 2. A 35­square­meter residential room built of bricks and tin belongs to Mohammed ‘Issa Abu ‘Aram (61), who received a notice to stop construction work. 3. A 50­square­meter residential room built of bricks and tin belongs to Mahmoud Mousa Shehadah Abu ‘Aram (42), who received a notice to stop construction work. 4. A 50­square­meter residential room built of bricks and tin belongs to Salem Mousa Shehadah Abu ‘Aram (45), who received a notice to stop construction work. 5. A 50­square­meter residential room built of bricks and tin and a 100­square­meter tin barrack used for livestock belong to Khaled Hussein al­‘Oar (58), who received a demolition notice. 6. Four 35­square­meter residential rooms belong to Ahmed (24), Saber (27), Khader (33) and Mohammed Hasan al­‘Omor (35), who received a demolition notice. 7. A 40­square­meter residential tent and 100­square­meter ten used for livestock built belong to Taleb Mohammed Ahmed No’aman.

At approximately 07:30 on Tuesday, 09 February 2016, Israeli forces accompanied with a vehicle from the Israeli Construction and Organization Department in the Civil Administration moved into Kherbet Tana, east of Beit Foriq village, east of Nablus. It should be mentioned that this is the fourth time Israeli forces level and uproot these establishments from 2014 to 2016 to displace the residents from the area. Israeli forces levelled the following:

1. Two residential tents, an 80­square­meter livestock barn and fodder store belonging to Ibrahim ‘Abdel Qader Hanani; 2. Two residential tents, an 80­square­meter livestock barn and fodder store belonging to Rowan Qassem Khatatbah; 3. Two residential tents, an 80­square­meter livestock barn and fodder store belonging to Wasef Abu al­So’oud Hanani; 4. Two residential tents, a 80­square­meter livestock barn and fodder store belonging to Ra’ed ‘Afif ‘Aref Hanani; 5. Two residential tents, a 80­square­meter livestock barn and fodder store belonging to Mohammed As’ad Hanani; 6. Two residential tents, a 80­square­meter livestock barn and fodder store belonging to Yousif Fayez Yousif Hanani; and

Israeli force also confiscated a Nisan Tender belonging to ‘Awad Mohammed Saleh Hanani while planting trees in al­Kherbah.

On Wednesday early morning, 10 February 2016, Israeli forces accompanied with a force from the Israeli Construction and Organization Department in the Civil Administration, bulldozers and a digger levelled residential barracks roofed with tin plates and destroyed electricity and water networks and livestock and poultry barns in the areas of al­Mosafeh and Kherbet al­Shonah, west of al­Jeftalak village, north of Jericho. They also levelled 3 dwellings and two barns.

According to information obtained by PCHR from al­Jeftalak Local Council, at approximately 06:00 on the aforementioned day, Israeli forces levelled the following:

1. A 70­square­meter residential barrack built of wood, plastic and tin that belongs to ‘Ali Tawfiq ‘Ali Bani ‘Odah and shelters his 9­family member; 2. A 100­square­meter residential barrack built of wood, plastic and tin that belongs to Rashid Salamah Hreizat and shelters his 13­member family; 3. A 60­square­meter barrack used as barn belongs to Salah Salamah Khalil Ka’abnah; 4. A 70­square­meter barrack used as barn built of tin and concrete belongs to ‘Awad ‘Ali Mas’oud Badrat and 5. A 120­square­meter residential barrack built of wood, plastic and tin that belongs to ‘Abdullah Mohammed ‘Abdullah Bernawi and shelters his 9­member family.

At approximately 08:30 on the same Wednesday, Israeli forces accompanied with vehicles belonging to the Israeli Construction and Organization Department in the Civil Administration and a bulldozer moved into Thera’a ‘Awwad in the Northern Jordan Valley. The Israeli bulldozer uprooted 4 residential tents belonging to Kayed Ghayyad Sallamin. Those tents were donated by the International Committee of Red Cross (ICRC), the Ministry of Local Government and Palestine Tomorrow Association. This is the second time Israeli forces uproot tents belonging to the same family within only 1 week without any prior warning.

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;

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Public Document

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