23 may 2008
Soldiers and demonstrators in Beit Sahour
A group of Palestinian and international volunteers playing outdoor games at an abandoned Israeli military base were confronted by four Israeli settlers in the West Bank village of Beit Sahour, near Bethlehem, on Friday morning. Witnesses said one of the settlers was armed.
The settlers left the area, but were quickly replaced by 17 Israeli soldiers and border police in full combat gear, who arrived in six jeeps and a humvee. The Israeli troops briefly detained one Palestinian man, 33-year-old Auni Joubran, from Bethlehem.
The soldiers forced the volunteers to leave the area.
The volunteers are part of a group that organizes activities for youth groups to build communication and leadership skills. A park complete with a playground and climbing wall was recently built next to the abandoned military base.
Last Thursday 50 Israeli settlers converged on the base, announcing their intention to establish a new illegal settlement outpost on the land. The outpost has not yet been built, but settler movement websites indicated that the settlers would return.
The military base was abandoned by the Israeli army in 2006.
A group of Palestinian and international volunteers playing outdoor games at an abandoned Israeli military base were confronted by four Israeli settlers in the West Bank village of Beit Sahour, near Bethlehem, on Friday morning. Witnesses said one of the settlers was armed.
The settlers left the area, but were quickly replaced by 17 Israeli soldiers and border police in full combat gear, who arrived in six jeeps and a humvee. The Israeli troops briefly detained one Palestinian man, 33-year-old Auni Joubran, from Bethlehem.
The soldiers forced the volunteers to leave the area.
The volunteers are part of a group that organizes activities for youth groups to build communication and leadership skills. A park complete with a playground and climbing wall was recently built next to the abandoned military base.
Last Thursday 50 Israeli settlers converged on the base, announcing their intention to establish a new illegal settlement outpost on the land. The outpost has not yet been built, but settler movement websites indicated that the settlers would return.
The military base was abandoned by the Israeli army in 2006.
Palestinian shot by Israeli guard in Ar-Ramlah
A Palestinian civilian was severely wounded when an Israeli settlement guard opened fire on him, shooting him in the head in Ar-Ramla northern Israel, on Thursday evening
Israeli sources quoted the guard as saying that the Palestinian civilian was driving his car strangely at the entrance to the Duleiv settlement. The
guard claimed the man refused to stop. The sources added that a Palestinian and an Israeli Jew were also in the car.
According to Israeli investigations, a 16-year-old from Beni Borak was travelling in the car with the two Palestinians in the village of Kharabta towards the settlement of Duleiv.
As soon as the car arrived at the entrance of the settlement west of Ramallah on Thursday evening, the guard argued with the driver and opened fire on him. The Palestinian driver was shot in the head while the other Palestinian passenger fled.
The Israeli guard then claimed that the driver tried to deliberately run him over as he tried to storm the gate of the settlement. He said he initially opened fired on the car's tires.
A Palestinian civilian was severely wounded when an Israeli settlement guard opened fire on him, shooting him in the head in Ar-Ramla northern Israel, on Thursday evening
Israeli sources quoted the guard as saying that the Palestinian civilian was driving his car strangely at the entrance to the Duleiv settlement. The
guard claimed the man refused to stop. The sources added that a Palestinian and an Israeli Jew were also in the car.
According to Israeli investigations, a 16-year-old from Beni Borak was travelling in the car with the two Palestinians in the village of Kharabta towards the settlement of Duleiv.
As soon as the car arrived at the entrance of the settlement west of Ramallah on Thursday evening, the guard argued with the driver and opened fire on him. The Palestinian driver was shot in the head while the other Palestinian passenger fled.
The Israeli guard then claimed that the driver tried to deliberately run him over as he tried to storm the gate of the settlement. He said he initially opened fired on the car's tires.
The bodies of three of Hamas' Al-Qassam fighters were found near the Sufa crossing, east of Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip on Friday.
Medical sources confirmed the identities of the three dead as Ibrahim Maddi, Mohammad Abu Rizeq and Mohannad Abu Awwad.
The Al-Quds brigades, the military wing of Islamic Jihad, also found the bodies of two of their fighters east of Al-Bureij, after the Israeli withdrawal. They named the dead as Hussam Abu Abdo and Ra'ed An-Na'eq.
In addition, an Al-Quds brigades activist and a member of Fatah's military wing, the Al-Aqsa Brigades, were injured in armed clashes with the Israeli troops in the central Gaza Strip.
Dr. Mu'awiya Hassanein, the chief of ambulance and emergency services in the Palestinian health mnistry said that ambulances and Red Crescent members were prevented from reaching the wounded.
Palestinian sources told Ma'an that 15 civilians were detained as the army withdrew from Al-'Omour, east of Khan Younis, after razing vast areas of land and damaging in property.
Eyewitnesses told Ma'an that heavy clashes are taking place in Al-'Omour area between Israeli forces and Palestinian resistance fighters.
The Al-Quds brigades, the military wing of Islamic Jihad, said in a statement that one of their activists was injured in clashes with an Israeli special force east of Al-Bureij refugee camp in the central Gaza Strip.
Also on Friday, Hamas' military wing, the Al-Qassam brigades, claimed responsibility for firing two rocket propelled grenades (RPGs) at an Israeli tank and launching ten mortar shells at Israeli military vehicles in the area.
The An-Nasser brigades, the military wing of the Popular Resistance Committees (PRC), claimed responsibility for launching three mortar shells at an Israeli military post east of Jabalya early on Friday morning.
The Al-Quds brigades, the military wing of Islamic Jihad, claimed responsibility for launching four mortar shells at Kissufim military post east of Khan Yunis on Thursday evening.
Medical sources confirmed the identities of the three dead as Ibrahim Maddi, Mohammad Abu Rizeq and Mohannad Abu Awwad.
The Al-Quds brigades, the military wing of Islamic Jihad, also found the bodies of two of their fighters east of Al-Bureij, after the Israeli withdrawal. They named the dead as Hussam Abu Abdo and Ra'ed An-Na'eq.
In addition, an Al-Quds brigades activist and a member of Fatah's military wing, the Al-Aqsa Brigades, were injured in armed clashes with the Israeli troops in the central Gaza Strip.
Dr. Mu'awiya Hassanein, the chief of ambulance and emergency services in the Palestinian health mnistry said that ambulances and Red Crescent members were prevented from reaching the wounded.
Palestinian sources told Ma'an that 15 civilians were detained as the army withdrew from Al-'Omour, east of Khan Younis, after razing vast areas of land and damaging in property.
Eyewitnesses told Ma'an that heavy clashes are taking place in Al-'Omour area between Israeli forces and Palestinian resistance fighters.
The Al-Quds brigades, the military wing of Islamic Jihad, said in a statement that one of their activists was injured in clashes with an Israeli special force east of Al-Bureij refugee camp in the central Gaza Strip.
Also on Friday, Hamas' military wing, the Al-Qassam brigades, claimed responsibility for firing two rocket propelled grenades (RPGs) at an Israeli tank and launching ten mortar shells at Israeli military vehicles in the area.
The An-Nasser brigades, the military wing of the Popular Resistance Committees (PRC), claimed responsibility for launching three mortar shells at an Israeli military post east of Jabalya early on Friday morning.
The Al-Quds brigades, the military wing of Islamic Jihad, claimed responsibility for launching four mortar shells at Kissufim military post east of Khan Yunis on Thursday evening.
Abu Ali Mustafa brigades target Israeli bulldozer with RPG east of Khan Yunis
Abu Ar-Rish brigades shell Sufa military post
PFLP and Islamic Jihad claim joint attack on Israeli force
Abu 'Ammar brigades launch projectiles at the western Negev
Israeli soldier injured in military operation near Sufa crossing, Al-Qassam brigades claim responsibility
Abu Ar-Rish brigades shell Sufa military post
PFLP and Islamic Jihad claim joint attack on Israeli force
Abu 'Ammar brigades launch projectiles at the western Negev
Israeli soldier injured in military operation near Sufa crossing, Al-Qassam brigades claim responsibility
22 may 2008
Demonstrators carry an injured youth after Israeli troops opend fire
A Palestinian man was killed and 17 others were injured on Thursday as Israeli forces opened fire on a rally protesting against the crippling siege on the Gaza Strip, near the Karni crossing east of Gaza City.
Palestinian medics named the dead man as 22-year-old Abdul-Kareem Ramadan. Muawiyya Hassanain, the director of ambulance and emergency services in the Palestinian health ministry, said a number of people sustained serious injuries.
Eyewitnesses said the Israeli soldiers opened fire on rally, hitting a number of protestors directly. The injured were evacuated to Ash-Shifa hospital in Gaza City.
The rally started after the midday prayer and was organized by Hamas. Hundreds of Hamas loyalists took part.
A Palestinian man was killed and 17 others were injured on Thursday as Israeli forces opened fire on a rally protesting against the crippling siege on the Gaza Strip, near the Karni crossing east of Gaza City.
Palestinian medics named the dead man as 22-year-old Abdul-Kareem Ramadan. Muawiyya Hassanain, the director of ambulance and emergency services in the Palestinian health ministry, said a number of people sustained serious injuries.
Eyewitnesses said the Israeli soldiers opened fire on rally, hitting a number of protestors directly. The injured were evacuated to Ash-Shifa hospital in Gaza City.
The rally started after the midday prayer and was organized by Hamas. Hundreds of Hamas loyalists took part.
Hamas leaders said they would make announcement soon about the outcome of Egyptian-brokered ceasefire talks, after they returned to the Gaza Strip from a round of talks in Cairo on Thursday.
The Hamas officials plan to hold internal discussions about the talks before making any announcement.
Hamas spokesperson Isma'il Radwan said, "Even after the delegation returns to Gaza, we can not assume that the case is closed, so let's wait for their response."
Egypt has been attempting to broker a ceasefire between Israel and Palestinian fighters in Gaza. Egyptian mediator Umar Sulaiman traveled to Israel earlier in May to present Egypt's plan to open some of Gaza's borders and bring an end to hostilities.
Radwan added that Hamas has received the Israeli response to Egypt's proposal through the Egyptian mediators, and that Hamas commented to the Egyptians on the Israeli response. After internal consultations, we will update the Palestinian people on the latest developments on that track, he said.
"Our comments and inquiries given to the Egyptian mediators do not mean the ceasefire endeavors have come to an impasse," he added.
As for the issue of captive Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit, Radwan said, "Shalit has nothing to do with the ceasefire, and that is all we can tell the press about that file."
Israeli officials have demanded that Shalit be released as a part of any ceasefire deal.
The Hamas officials plan to hold internal discussions about the talks before making any announcement.
Hamas spokesperson Isma'il Radwan said, "Even after the delegation returns to Gaza, we can not assume that the case is closed, so let's wait for their response."
Egypt has been attempting to broker a ceasefire between Israel and Palestinian fighters in Gaza. Egyptian mediator Umar Sulaiman traveled to Israel earlier in May to present Egypt's plan to open some of Gaza's borders and bring an end to hostilities.
Radwan added that Hamas has received the Israeli response to Egypt's proposal through the Egyptian mediators, and that Hamas commented to the Egyptians on the Israeli response. After internal consultations, we will update the Palestinian people on the latest developments on that track, he said.
"Our comments and inquiries given to the Egyptian mediators do not mean the ceasefire endeavors have come to an impasse," he added.
As for the issue of captive Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit, Radwan said, "Shalit has nothing to do with the ceasefire, and that is all we can tell the press about that file."
Israeli officials have demanded that Shalit be released as a part of any ceasefire deal.
Palestinian teenager dies month after being shot by Israeli soldiers
Palestinian teenager Khalid Abdul-Hadi died on Wednesday evening of wounds he sustained last month when he was shot by Israeli troops in the central Gaza Strip.
Palestinian medical sources told Ma'an that Abdul-Hadi was hospitalized after he sustained critical wounds. He died on Wednesday at Ash-Shifa hospital in Gaza City.
Palestinian teenager Khalid Abdul-Hadi died on Wednesday evening of wounds he sustained last month when he was shot by Israeli troops in the central Gaza Strip.
Palestinian medical sources told Ma'an that Abdul-Hadi was hospitalized after he sustained critical wounds. He died on Wednesday at Ash-Shifa hospital in Gaza City.
A 62-year-old farmer, Salim Al-Bahaysa, was shot dead by Israeli forces which had invaded the area of Johr Ad-Deik in the central Gaza Strip on Thursday morning.
Eyewitnesses told Ma'an's reporter that Israeli military vehicles fired heavily at Palestinian farmers killing Al-Bahaysa. No other casualties have been reported.
Al-Bahaysa's son Ahmda was killed last Tuesday by Israeli artillery shells in the Zaytoun neighborhood of Gaza City.
Eyewitnesses told Ma'an's reporter that Israeli military vehicles fired heavily at Palestinian farmers killing Al-Bahaysa. No other casualties have been reported.
Al-Bahaysa's son Ahmda was killed last Tuesday by Israeli artillery shells in the Zaytoun neighborhood of Gaza City.
Al-Quds brigades claim targeted Israeli force east of Khan Yunis
Israeli authorities close Sufa crossing
Palestinian fighters ambush Israeli military patrol in central Gaza Strip
Fatah and Islamic Jihad's military groups claim responsibility for bombing at Erez crossing
Israeli authorities close Sufa crossing
Palestinian fighters ambush Israeli military patrol in central Gaza Strip
Fatah and Islamic Jihad's military groups claim responsibility for bombing at Erez crossing
21 may 2008
Two separate Israeli attacks left five children and a young man injured in the northern Gaza Strip on Wednesday.
Dr. Muawiya Hassanain, the director of ambulance and emergency services in the Palestinian Health Ministry, said that Israeli forces shelled a civilian car in Jabaliya refugee camp, wounding the five children, who were nearby.
Hassanain said that one of the injured is a 2-month-old child. He confirmed that the people inside the car survived the shelling.
Fourteen-year-old Abdul Wahab Mhanna, 12-year-old Mohammad Iyad Moharram, 5-year-old Huriyya Iyad Moharram, 8-year-old Nour Iyad Moharram the 2-month-old Lo'ay were all treated at a hospital
Earlier on Wednesday, Hassanain said that an Israeli air strike targeting Palestinain fighters in the town of Beit Lahiya left one Palestinian wounded, 19-year-old Wassim Abu Al-Jedyan.
Dr. Muawiya Hassanain, the director of ambulance and emergency services in the Palestinian Health Ministry, said that Israeli forces shelled a civilian car in Jabaliya refugee camp, wounding the five children, who were nearby.
Hassanain said that one of the injured is a 2-month-old child. He confirmed that the people inside the car survived the shelling.
Fourteen-year-old Abdul Wahab Mhanna, 12-year-old Mohammad Iyad Moharram, 5-year-old Huriyya Iyad Moharram, 8-year-old Nour Iyad Moharram the 2-month-old Lo'ay were all treated at a hospital
Earlier on Wednesday, Hassanain said that an Israeli air strike targeting Palestinain fighters in the town of Beit Lahiya left one Palestinian wounded, 19-year-old Wassim Abu Al-Jedyan.
Israeli forces detained seven Palestinians across the West Bank after raiding houses on Wednesday morning.
Israeli sources said that the army arrested seven so-called "wanted" Palestinians in the cities of Bethlehem and Nablus. The source confirmed that the detainees were transferred to interrogation centers.
Israeli sources said that the army arrested seven so-called "wanted" Palestinians in the cities of Bethlehem and Nablus. The source confirmed that the detainees were transferred to interrogation centers.
Israel intends to confiscate 12% of the West Bank, take security control over 20%
Resistance fighters claim launching projectile at Ashkelon
Resistance fighters claim launching projectile at Ashkelon
20 may 2008
Islamic Jihad expects that Israel will try to crush the resistance in the Gaza Strip before announcing its acceptance of a ceasefire, an Islamic Jihad leader said on Tuesday.
Khaled Al-Batsh said that the Israeli operation against the Gaza Strip is expected to be 'limited' and therefore the announcement of a ceasefire will be delayed until the operation is completed.
Al-Batsh told Ma'an that Islamic Jihad will respond to any Israeli violation of the ceasefire agreement and confirming their adherence to the conditions set down by the resistance groups, which includes a simultaneous and reciprocal ceasefire as well as the reopening of border crossings and an end to the siege on the coastal sector.
He said that they will continue to respect this agreement as long as the Israelis also do so. He also confirmed their right to respond to any Israeli violation.
Regarding the release of captured Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit, Al-Batsh said that it would only happen if Palestinian prisoners are also released.
Hamas will meet with the Egyptian Minister Umar Suleiman, the intelligence chief on Tuesday in Sharm Ash-Sheikh to discuss the ceasefire.
Khaled Al-Batsh said that the Israeli operation against the Gaza Strip is expected to be 'limited' and therefore the announcement of a ceasefire will be delayed until the operation is completed.
Al-Batsh told Ma'an that Islamic Jihad will respond to any Israeli violation of the ceasefire agreement and confirming their adherence to the conditions set down by the resistance groups, which includes a simultaneous and reciprocal ceasefire as well as the reopening of border crossings and an end to the siege on the coastal sector.
He said that they will continue to respect this agreement as long as the Israelis also do so. He also confirmed their right to respond to any Israeli violation.
Regarding the release of captured Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit, Al-Batsh said that it would only happen if Palestinian prisoners are also released.
Hamas will meet with the Egyptian Minister Umar Suleiman, the intelligence chief on Tuesday in Sharm Ash-Sheikh to discuss the ceasefire.
16-year-old Fahmi Dardouk Dardouk
The Palestinian teenager shot dead on Monday at Huwwara checkpoint south of Nablus in the northern West Bank was carrying explosives to attack Israeli soldiers at the checkpoint, a little known group calling themselves the "Struggle and Return Brigades" announced on Tuesday afternoon.
The group, who are affiliated to Fatah's Al-Aqsa Brigades, said in a statement that 16-year-old Fahmi Ad-Dardouk was in possession of three explosive devices.
Israeli military sources had said the young man refused to comply with soldiers at the checkpoint who ordered him to stop and raise his hands. They then opened fire on him, thinking he was wearing an explosive belt.
Eyewitnesses told Ma'an's Nablus correspondent that Israeli soldiers manning the checkpoint fired a volley of six shots at the young man, who appeared to be around 16 years of age, hitting him several times.
They then completely closed the checkpoint preventing anyone from passing through.
According to the eyewitnesses, the Israeli soldiers at the checkpoint had asked the young man to lift up his shirt and when he refused they immediately opened fire on him.
The Dardouk family said that Fahmi left home 24 hours before they identified his corpse in Rafedia Hospital. They said he used to work with his father in a bakery in the centre of Nablus. He left home in the morning and never returned.
Hospital director, Dr Khalid Salih, told Ma'an that Dardouk received three gunshots to the chest, abdomen and leg. When he was taken to hospital he was not carrying any identity papers, Dr Salih added.
Dardouk's family denied he was carrying explosives, saying the Israeli soldiers killed him in cold blood.
Ad-Dardouk's father said that his son was going to Ramallah to visit some relatives and his mobile phone was hanging on his belt connected to a set of headphones. He said he was in contact with his son to make sure he crossed the checkpoint safely. In his last call with his father, Fahmi told him that he had crossed the checkpoint.
He said he thought his son was in Ramallah with his relatives and that was why nobody identified the body until Tuesday morning.
His father said Fahmi was not affiliated to any faction and was a student at the Abdul Hamid As-Sa'eh School. He was the only brother amongst his seven sisters.
He called for an investigations into the case as well as calling on international humanitarian institutions to protect Palestinian children by forcing Israel to respect international humanitarian law.
Ad-Dardouk was buried in the western cemetery in Nablus.
The Palestinian teenager shot dead on Monday at Huwwara checkpoint south of Nablus in the northern West Bank was carrying explosives to attack Israeli soldiers at the checkpoint, a little known group calling themselves the "Struggle and Return Brigades" announced on Tuesday afternoon.
The group, who are affiliated to Fatah's Al-Aqsa Brigades, said in a statement that 16-year-old Fahmi Ad-Dardouk was in possession of three explosive devices.
Israeli military sources had said the young man refused to comply with soldiers at the checkpoint who ordered him to stop and raise his hands. They then opened fire on him, thinking he was wearing an explosive belt.
Eyewitnesses told Ma'an's Nablus correspondent that Israeli soldiers manning the checkpoint fired a volley of six shots at the young man, who appeared to be around 16 years of age, hitting him several times.
They then completely closed the checkpoint preventing anyone from passing through.
According to the eyewitnesses, the Israeli soldiers at the checkpoint had asked the young man to lift up his shirt and when he refused they immediately opened fire on him.
The Dardouk family said that Fahmi left home 24 hours before they identified his corpse in Rafedia Hospital. They said he used to work with his father in a bakery in the centre of Nablus. He left home in the morning and never returned.
Hospital director, Dr Khalid Salih, told Ma'an that Dardouk received three gunshots to the chest, abdomen and leg. When he was taken to hospital he was not carrying any identity papers, Dr Salih added.
Dardouk's family denied he was carrying explosives, saying the Israeli soldiers killed him in cold blood.
Ad-Dardouk's father said that his son was going to Ramallah to visit some relatives and his mobile phone was hanging on his belt connected to a set of headphones. He said he was in contact with his son to make sure he crossed the checkpoint safely. In his last call with his father, Fahmi told him that he had crossed the checkpoint.
He said he thought his son was in Ramallah with his relatives and that was why nobody identified the body until Tuesday morning.
His father said Fahmi was not affiliated to any faction and was a student at the Abdul Hamid As-Sa'eh School. He was the only brother amongst his seven sisters.
He called for an investigations into the case as well as calling on international humanitarian institutions to protect Palestinian children by forcing Israel to respect international humanitarian law.
Ad-Dardouk was buried in the western cemetery in Nablus.
An Israeli settler shot and injured 30-year-old Jawad Idkaidik on Monday night near the location of a roadblock that the Israeli military removed last week in the West Bank city of Hebron.
Idkaidik said that the settler shot him from a moving car which then sped away. He was treated at Al-Ahli Hospital in Hebron.
Idkaidik said that the settler shot him from a moving car which then sped away. He was treated at Al-Ahli Hospital in Hebron.
Israeli forces killed three Palestinians, including a farmer and a 13-year-old-girl, in the Gaza Strip on Tuesday.
Hamas' military wing, Al-Qassam Brigades and Palestinian medical sources said on Tuesday afternoon that a Hamas-affiliated fighters, 25-year-old Muhammad 'Udah, has been killed and three others injured in Israeli shelling in the Zaytoun neighborhood of Gaza City. That brings Tuesday's death toll to three.
Earlier, Israeli tanks killed a Palestinian farmer in the town of Beit Lahiya, in the northern Gaza Strip.
Palestinian medical sources identified the farmer as 32-year-old Ali Ad-Dahdouh. His son was critically injured by a gunshot hit him in the head.
Muawiya Hassanain, the director of ambulance and emergency services in the Palestinian Health Ministry said that medics evacuated the Dahdouh's burnt, ragged corpse to Ash-Shifa Hospital in Gaza City.
Another civilian was moderately injured as Israeli warplanes fired a missile at the area of Juhor Ad-Dik in the central Gaza Strip.
On Tuesday morning, a 13-year-old child was killed in an Israeli air strike in Beit Lahiya, One other person was injured in that attack.
Palestinian medical sources said that the corpse of the child, whose name has not yet been determined, was transferred to Kamal Udwan Hospital in northern Gaza.
Witnesses said that an Israeli aircraft fired a missile at a group of Palestinian civilians gathered in Beit Lahiya. The Israeli air force maintains that it fired at a group of fighters.
Separately, witnesses said that three Israeli tanks and a bulldozer invaded the eastern edge of Maghazi refugee camp, destroying land and shooting intensely.
Hamas' military wing, Al-Qassam Brigades and Palestinian medical sources said on Tuesday afternoon that a Hamas-affiliated fighters, 25-year-old Muhammad 'Udah, has been killed and three others injured in Israeli shelling in the Zaytoun neighborhood of Gaza City. That brings Tuesday's death toll to three.
Earlier, Israeli tanks killed a Palestinian farmer in the town of Beit Lahiya, in the northern Gaza Strip.
Palestinian medical sources identified the farmer as 32-year-old Ali Ad-Dahdouh. His son was critically injured by a gunshot hit him in the head.
Muawiya Hassanain, the director of ambulance and emergency services in the Palestinian Health Ministry said that medics evacuated the Dahdouh's burnt, ragged corpse to Ash-Shifa Hospital in Gaza City.
Another civilian was moderately injured as Israeli warplanes fired a missile at the area of Juhor Ad-Dik in the central Gaza Strip.
On Tuesday morning, a 13-year-old child was killed in an Israeli air strike in Beit Lahiya, One other person was injured in that attack.
Palestinian medical sources said that the corpse of the child, whose name has not yet been determined, was transferred to Kamal Udwan Hospital in northern Gaza.
Witnesses said that an Israeli aircraft fired a missile at a group of Palestinian civilians gathered in Beit Lahiya. The Israeli air force maintains that it fired at a group of fighters.
Separately, witnesses said that three Israeli tanks and a bulldozer invaded the eastern edge of Maghazi refugee camp, destroying land and shooting intensely.
Israel has agreed to enter a ceasefire with Hamas on the condition that the agreement includes captive Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit, a source with knowledge of the negotiations said on Monday.
The source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said that Israel told the Egyptian mediator, intelligence chief Umar Sulaiman, that Israel would embrace an agreement that includes releasing Shalit or at least speeding up negotiations towards his release.
Sulaiman has been meeting with Hamas leaders an Israeli officials in hopes of brokering a truce. Hamas leaders were in Cairo on Monday for another round of talks.
Nevertheless, the source said that the issue of Shalit's captivity would not be resolved for another six months because Israel has approved only 40 names out of a 450-name list of prisoners Hamas wanted to be freed in exchange for Shalit. Hamas has expressed its willingness to transfer Shalit to Egypt before the release of Palestinian prisoners.
Hamas officials have also said that the Shalit issue must be resolved separately from the ceasefire, because other armed groups, who have their own conditions, are involved in holding him prisoner.
The source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said that Israel told the Egyptian mediator, intelligence chief Umar Sulaiman, that Israel would embrace an agreement that includes releasing Shalit or at least speeding up negotiations towards his release.
Sulaiman has been meeting with Hamas leaders an Israeli officials in hopes of brokering a truce. Hamas leaders were in Cairo on Monday for another round of talks.
Nevertheless, the source said that the issue of Shalit's captivity would not be resolved for another six months because Israel has approved only 40 names out of a 450-name list of prisoners Hamas wanted to be freed in exchange for Shalit. Hamas has expressed its willingness to transfer Shalit to Egypt before the release of Palestinian prisoners.
Hamas officials have also said that the Shalit issue must be resolved separately from the ceasefire, because other armed groups, who have their own conditions, are involved in holding him prisoner.
Palestinian military groups fire projectiles at Israeli towns bordering Gaza Strip
Al-Qassam brigades target Israeli military vehicles
Al-Aqsa Brigades 'attack West Bank settler bus stop'
National resistance Brigades and An-Nasser Brigades claim attacks on Kissufim and Sderot
Al-Quds Brigades claim projectile attack on Sderot
Gazan fighters claim attacks on Israeli sites
Al-Qassam brigades target Israeli military vehicles
Al-Aqsa Brigades 'attack West Bank settler bus stop'
National resistance Brigades and An-Nasser Brigades claim attacks on Kissufim and Sderot
Al-Quds Brigades claim projectile attack on Sderot
Gazan fighters claim attacks on Israeli sites
19 may 2008
Israeli forces shot dead a young Palestinian man at the Hawwara checkpoint, south of Nablus on Monday evening.
Israeli military sources said the young man refused to comply with soldiers who ordered him to stop and raise his hands. They then opened fire on him, thinking he was wearing an explosive belt.
Eyewitnesses told Ma'an's Nablus correspondent that Israeli soldiers manning the checkpoint fired a volley of six shots at the young man, who appeared to be around 16 years of age, hitting him several times in the back.
They then completely closed the checkpoint preventing anyone from passing through.
According to the eyewitnesses, the Israeli soldiers at the checkpoint had asked the young man to lift up his shirt and when he refused they immediately opened fire on him.
Israeli military sources said the young man refused to comply with soldiers who ordered him to stop and raise his hands. They then opened fire on him, thinking he was wearing an explosive belt.
Eyewitnesses told Ma'an's Nablus correspondent that Israeli soldiers manning the checkpoint fired a volley of six shots at the young man, who appeared to be around 16 years of age, hitting him several times in the back.
They then completely closed the checkpoint preventing anyone from passing through.
According to the eyewitnesses, the Israeli soldiers at the checkpoint had asked the young man to lift up his shirt and when he refused they immediately opened fire on him.
Senior Hamas leaders are traveling to Egypt on Monday to resume talks with Egyptian mediators in hopes of hammering out the terms of a ceasefire with Israel.
The Hamas delegation in includes founder Mahmoud Zahhar, Jamal Abu Hashim, and Khalil Al-Hayyah, all of whom are based in the Gaza Strip. Exlied leaders Mousa Abu Marzouq, Muhammad Nasr and Imad Al-Alami will also join the meetings.
Egyptian intelligence chief Umar Sulaiman is leading efforts to mediate between Egypt and armed Palestinian groups in Gaza, including the dominant Hamas movement.
Hamas leader Ayman Taha said that his movement's delegation would hear, for the first time, the Israeli response to an Egyptian-proposed plan for a ceasefire. Upon hearing the Israeli reaction, Hamas will make a decision regarding the ceasefire.
Sulaiman presented the plan to Israeli officials a week ago. The proposal is reported to call for the opening of some of the Gaza Strip's border crossings, which Israel has kept sealed since Hamas took full control of Gaza last June.
Taha reiterated that Hamas refuses to include the issue of captive Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit in the ceasefire. "If Israel wants to include Shalit in the ceasefire deal, they have to adhere to the captors' demands," he said.
Taha also denied that 'Umar Sulaiman warned Hamas of a large-scale Israeli attack if Hamas refuses to include Shalit in the ceasefire deal.
The Hamas delegation in includes founder Mahmoud Zahhar, Jamal Abu Hashim, and Khalil Al-Hayyah, all of whom are based in the Gaza Strip. Exlied leaders Mousa Abu Marzouq, Muhammad Nasr and Imad Al-Alami will also join the meetings.
Egyptian intelligence chief Umar Sulaiman is leading efforts to mediate between Egypt and armed Palestinian groups in Gaza, including the dominant Hamas movement.
Hamas leader Ayman Taha said that his movement's delegation would hear, for the first time, the Israeli response to an Egyptian-proposed plan for a ceasefire. Upon hearing the Israeli reaction, Hamas will make a decision regarding the ceasefire.
Sulaiman presented the plan to Israeli officials a week ago. The proposal is reported to call for the opening of some of the Gaza Strip's border crossings, which Israel has kept sealed since Hamas took full control of Gaza last June.
Taha reiterated that Hamas refuses to include the issue of captive Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit in the ceasefire. "If Israel wants to include Shalit in the ceasefire deal, they have to adhere to the captors' demands," he said.
Taha also denied that 'Umar Sulaiman warned Hamas of a large-scale Israeli attack if Hamas refuses to include Shalit in the ceasefire deal.
Israeli forces seize five Palestinians in overnight raid near Nablus
Israeli forces seized five Palestinians early on Monday morning during a raid in the village of Al-Laban Ash-Sharqiya, south of the city West Bank city of Nablus.
Local Palestinian sources said that more than twenty separate groups of Israeli soldiers stormed the city at 1am, imposing a curfew and invading houses.
The sources added that the Israeli forces prevented civilians in the village from going to work and mosques in the morning.
Local sources said the arrestees are: 18-year-old Ahmed Moussa Samara, 18-year-old Bader Adnan Daraghmeh, 20-year-old Iyad Mohammed Jaber, 20-year-old Hatem Hassan Rashid, and 16-year-old Murad Hassan Ahmed.
Israeli forces seized five Palestinians early on Monday morning during a raid in the village of Al-Laban Ash-Sharqiya, south of the city West Bank city of Nablus.
Local Palestinian sources said that more than twenty separate groups of Israeli soldiers stormed the city at 1am, imposing a curfew and invading houses.
The sources added that the Israeli forces prevented civilians in the village from going to work and mosques in the morning.
Local sources said the arrestees are: 18-year-old Ahmed Moussa Samara, 18-year-old Bader Adnan Daraghmeh, 20-year-old Iyad Mohammed Jaber, 20-year-old Hatem Hassan Rashid, and 16-year-old Murad Hassan Ahmed.
Kamal Udwan Brigades target Israeli military post
Imam, resistance fighter arrested in Jenin refugee camp
Palestinian fighters launch projectile at Israeli position
Israeli forces arrest 19 Palestinians across the West Bank
Imam, resistance fighter arrested in Jenin refugee camp
Palestinian fighters launch projectile at Israeli position
Israeli forces arrest 19 Palestinians across the West Bank
18 may 2008
Israeli soldiers severely beat three men near Bethlehem
Israeli soldiers pulled several Palestinians from their car and beat them severely near the West Bank city of Bethlehem on Sunday.
Among those who were attacked on Sunday was Munqith Abu Rumi, the head of the information department at Asarna (Our Prisoners), a Jerusalem-based organization that advocates on behalf of Palestinian prisoners.
Asrana said that the Israeli soldiers forced Abu Rumi and two companions to get out of the car and remove their clothes. They were then beaten in front of passersby. The statement added that Abu Rumi was injured in the head.
The other two victims in the attack were Nassre Muhammad, from Al-'Izariyya, in East Jerusalem, and Ammar Al-Arameen, from Sa'ir, north of Hebron.
Israeli soldiers pulled several Palestinians from their car and beat them severely near the West Bank city of Bethlehem on Sunday.
Among those who were attacked on Sunday was Munqith Abu Rumi, the head of the information department at Asarna (Our Prisoners), a Jerusalem-based organization that advocates on behalf of Palestinian prisoners.
Asrana said that the Israeli soldiers forced Abu Rumi and two companions to get out of the car and remove their clothes. They were then beaten in front of passersby. The statement added that Abu Rumi was injured in the head.
The other two victims in the attack were Nassre Muhammad, from Al-'Izariyya, in East Jerusalem, and Ammar Al-Arameen, from Sa'ir, north of Hebron.
Olmert: situation in Gaza reaching a "turning point"
Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert sent an ominous warning to Palestinians in the Gaza Strip on Sunday, saying that relations with the Gaza Strip are reaching a "turning point," Israeli media reported.
"We are getting closer to our turning point in deciding over the Gaza matters. The current situation is intolerable. Our hope is that one day the residents of the south will lead a peaceful life," Olmert said at the opening of the Israeli cabinet meeting.
Israeli Foreign Minister Tzipi Livni Defense Minister Ehud Barak are scheduled to meet with Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak in the Egyptian resort town of Sharm Ash-Shiekh to discuss an Egyptian proposal for a ceasefire between Israel and armed Palestinian groups in Gaza.
Palestinian groups have already approved the Egyptian plan, which involves opening some of Gaza's blockaded border crossings and halting violent attacks by both Israel and the Palestinians.
Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert sent an ominous warning to Palestinians in the Gaza Strip on Sunday, saying that relations with the Gaza Strip are reaching a "turning point," Israeli media reported.
"We are getting closer to our turning point in deciding over the Gaza matters. The current situation is intolerable. Our hope is that one day the residents of the south will lead a peaceful life," Olmert said at the opening of the Israeli cabinet meeting.
Israeli Foreign Minister Tzipi Livni Defense Minister Ehud Barak are scheduled to meet with Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak in the Egyptian resort town of Sharm Ash-Shiekh to discuss an Egyptian proposal for a ceasefire between Israel and armed Palestinian groups in Gaza.
Palestinian groups have already approved the Egyptian plan, which involves opening some of Gaza's blockaded border crossings and halting violent attacks by both Israel and the Palestinians.
Rafah incursion devastated Gazan agriculture, Interior ministry said
Israeli military bulldozers destroyed ten poultry farms and vast areas of farmland in the Shoukah area east of the city of Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip, the Gaza-based Ministry of Agriculture said in a statement on Sunday.
The ministry said that orange groves, almonds and olive trees as well as greenhouses have been destroyed. The Ministry estimated losses totaled 1.5 million US dollars.
Israeli tanks and bulldozers operated in the Shoukah area for several hours on Saturday morning. Three Palestinians were abducted by Israeli forces in the same incursion.
The Ministry said Israel is destroying Gaza's farms in order to deprive the Palestinians in the Gaza of food, in an attempt to worsen the effects of the Israeli-led siege of Gaza.
Israeli military bulldozers destroyed ten poultry farms and vast areas of farmland in the Shoukah area east of the city of Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip, the Gaza-based Ministry of Agriculture said in a statement on Sunday.
The ministry said that orange groves, almonds and olive trees as well as greenhouses have been destroyed. The Ministry estimated losses totaled 1.5 million US dollars.
Israeli tanks and bulldozers operated in the Shoukah area for several hours on Saturday morning. Three Palestinians were abducted by Israeli forces in the same incursion.
The Ministry said Israel is destroying Gaza's farms in order to deprive the Palestinians in the Gaza of food, in an attempt to worsen the effects of the Israeli-led siege of Gaza.
Abbas shifts tone, expressing frustration with negotiations, Bush's role
Critical cooking gas shortage in Gaza
Israel delaying shipment of electronic equipment to Palestine
Critical cooking gas shortage in Gaza
Israel delaying shipment of electronic equipment to Palestine
17 may 2008
Homes ransacked in dawn incursion in Qabatiya
Israeli forces invaded the West Bank town of Qabatiya on Saturday morning at dawn in search of members of the armed wing of Islamic Jihad, the Al-Quds Brigades.
Sources in Islamic Jihad said that five Israeli armored vehicles entered the town. Israeli soldiers broke into two homes belonging to members of the Al-Quds Brigades. The troops ransacked the two houses, damaging furniture and interrogating the families of the Palestinian fighters.
Israeli forces invaded the West Bank town of Qabatiya on Saturday morning at dawn in search of members of the armed wing of Islamic Jihad, the Al-Quds Brigades.
Sources in Islamic Jihad said that five Israeli armored vehicles entered the town. Israeli soldiers broke into two homes belonging to members of the Al-Quds Brigades. The troops ransacked the two houses, damaging furniture and interrogating the families of the Palestinian fighters.
Palestinians beaten, sexually humiliated by Israeli captors, ex-prisoners say
Beatings and sexual humiliation are among the torments suffered by Palestinian detainees at an Israeli prison located near the West Bank city of Ramallah, new testimony from prisoners indicates.
Twenty-one-year-old Ramallah resident Sultan Abdullah Sulieman was recently released from the Ofer Prison, officially known as Incarceration Facility 386. In interviews with lawyers from the Palestinian Prisoners Society, he said that he spent forty days in solitary confinement in the facility.
Sulieman said that during one interrogation session, Israeli soldiers brought an "Iraqi girl" called "Nora" into the room. "Nora" danced "seductively" in front of Suleiman, moving close to him before moving away, he said.
Suleiman said that the Israeli soldiers beat him on his feet and legs, at one time making him unable to walk for two weeks.
During his forty days in solitary confinement, he was kept in a "cold, smelly, cell . like a tomb." He said the soldiers would push a plates of food towards him with their boots. At night, Suleiman was kept awake by the sounds of soldiers beating on the door of the cell, and the screams of other prisoners being tortured.
The Prisoners Society also spoke with 36-year-old Iyad Hamayel, also from Ramallah. He said Israeli soldiers arrested him for throwing stones, a charge he denies. One soldier picked up a stone and beat him in the head with it, striking him to the floor. Hamayel was forced to march for an hour, all the while enduring more beatings, his hands tied with plastic handcuffs.
Other prisoners, including 15-year-old Bashar Ahmad Sofan, from Nablus, and 18-year-old Amar Sulieman Hasan, from Jericho, said that they are now suffering health problems, after being denied proper healthcare while inside Ofer prison.
Beatings and sexual humiliation are among the torments suffered by Palestinian detainees at an Israeli prison located near the West Bank city of Ramallah, new testimony from prisoners indicates.
Twenty-one-year-old Ramallah resident Sultan Abdullah Sulieman was recently released from the Ofer Prison, officially known as Incarceration Facility 386. In interviews with lawyers from the Palestinian Prisoners Society, he said that he spent forty days in solitary confinement in the facility.
Sulieman said that during one interrogation session, Israeli soldiers brought an "Iraqi girl" called "Nora" into the room. "Nora" danced "seductively" in front of Suleiman, moving close to him before moving away, he said.
Suleiman said that the Israeli soldiers beat him on his feet and legs, at one time making him unable to walk for two weeks.
During his forty days in solitary confinement, he was kept in a "cold, smelly, cell . like a tomb." He said the soldiers would push a plates of food towards him with their boots. At night, Suleiman was kept awake by the sounds of soldiers beating on the door of the cell, and the screams of other prisoners being tortured.
The Prisoners Society also spoke with 36-year-old Iyad Hamayel, also from Ramallah. He said Israeli soldiers arrested him for throwing stones, a charge he denies. One soldier picked up a stone and beat him in the head with it, striking him to the floor. Hamayel was forced to march for an hour, all the while enduring more beatings, his hands tied with plastic handcuffs.
Other prisoners, including 15-year-old Bashar Ahmad Sofan, from Nablus, and 18-year-old Amar Sulieman Hasan, from Jericho, said that they are now suffering health problems, after being denied proper healthcare while inside Ofer prison.
Hamas leaders are heading to Cairo on Monday to resume talks with Egyptian officials on the issue of a ceasefire with Israel.
Hamas spokesperson Ayman Taha said Egyptian officials would deliver Israel's response to an Egyptian proposal for a ceasefire. Egyptian intelligence chief Umar Sulaiman was in Israel last week to present the plan.
The Hamas delegation was originally scheduled to travel to Cairo on Friday, but the trip was delayed without official explanation.
Taha reaffirmed Hamas' support for an Egyptian brokered ceasefire, saying, "we delivered our approval to the Egyptian side on the truce."
Taha voiced hope that Israeli Prime Minster Ehud Olmert will accept the Egyptian proposal, which includes a suspension of violence and the opening of some of the Gaza Strip's border crossings.
He also said that that the issue of captive Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit is totally separate from the truce negotiations: "we are not against releasing Shalit but this file has its requirements and conditions that all the factions holding him are sticking to."
Hamas spokesperson Ayman Taha said Egyptian officials would deliver Israel's response to an Egyptian proposal for a ceasefire. Egyptian intelligence chief Umar Sulaiman was in Israel last week to present the plan.
The Hamas delegation was originally scheduled to travel to Cairo on Friday, but the trip was delayed without official explanation.
Taha reaffirmed Hamas' support for an Egyptian brokered ceasefire, saying, "we delivered our approval to the Egyptian side on the truce."
Taha voiced hope that Israeli Prime Minster Ehud Olmert will accept the Egyptian proposal, which includes a suspension of violence and the opening of some of the Gaza Strip's border crossings.
He also said that that the issue of captive Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit is totally separate from the truce negotiations: "we are not against releasing Shalit but this file has its requirements and conditions that all the factions holding him are sticking to."
US President George W Bush flew to the Egyptian resort town of Sharm Ash-Shiekh on Saturday for a trilateral meeting with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak.
Palestinian sources said that Abbas will ask Bush to boost Palestinian-Israeli peace negotiations and put more pressure on Israel to make concessions.
Bush heads to Egypt amid mounting skepticism in the Arab world about his ability to be an honest broker in the Palestinian-Israeli conflict after he heaped praise on Israel during a visit there last week to mark the sixtieth anniversary of the Jewish state's independence.
In his speech to the Israeli Knesset, Bush hailed Israel as a "homeland for the chosen people," while barely mentioning the Palestinians.
Palestinians are also marking the sixtieth anniversary of 1948 this week, which for them was a Nakba, a catastrophe. More than 700,000 were expelled from their Palestinians from their homes in what became Israel in 1948.
The White House denied that Bush turned a blind eye to the suffering of the Palestinians, claiming that Bush would address their concerns at Saturday's meeting.
"What he will make clear is that the Palestinian people deserve a state," said White House spokesperson Gordon Johndroe.
Egypt's efforts to broker a ceasefire between Israel and Palestinian military factions in Gaza will also be on the agenda for Saturday's meeting.
Bethlehem delegation named separately, President Bush said that Robert M. Kimmitt, the Deputy US Secretary, of the Treasury, will lead a delegation of officials to this week's Palestine Investment Conference in Bethlehem.
John J. Sullivan, Deputy Secretary of Commerce, and Robert Mosbacher, Jr., President and CEO of the Overseas Private Investment Corporation will also join the six-member presidential delegation.
Palestinian sources said that Abbas will ask Bush to boost Palestinian-Israeli peace negotiations and put more pressure on Israel to make concessions.
Bush heads to Egypt amid mounting skepticism in the Arab world about his ability to be an honest broker in the Palestinian-Israeli conflict after he heaped praise on Israel during a visit there last week to mark the sixtieth anniversary of the Jewish state's independence.
In his speech to the Israeli Knesset, Bush hailed Israel as a "homeland for the chosen people," while barely mentioning the Palestinians.
Palestinians are also marking the sixtieth anniversary of 1948 this week, which for them was a Nakba, a catastrophe. More than 700,000 were expelled from their Palestinians from their homes in what became Israel in 1948.
The White House denied that Bush turned a blind eye to the suffering of the Palestinians, claiming that Bush would address their concerns at Saturday's meeting.
"What he will make clear is that the Palestinian people deserve a state," said White House spokesperson Gordon Johndroe.
Egypt's efforts to broker a ceasefire between Israel and Palestinian military factions in Gaza will also be on the agenda for Saturday's meeting.
Bethlehem delegation named separately, President Bush said that Robert M. Kimmitt, the Deputy US Secretary, of the Treasury, will lead a delegation of officials to this week's Palestine Investment Conference in Bethlehem.
John J. Sullivan, Deputy Secretary of Commerce, and Robert Mosbacher, Jr., President and CEO of the Overseas Private Investment Corporation will also join the six-member presidential delegation.
Israeli forces withdrew from the Al-Shoukah area east of the city of Rafah in the Gaza Strip on Saturday, bring to a close an incursion that began at dawn.
Witnesses said Israeli tanks left behind a swath of destroyed farmland and other property. Eight dunams (one dunam is 1000 square meters) of land belonging to farmer Yasser Jaber, and the largest chicken farm in the Rafah area were destroyed.
Israeli troops siezed three Palestinians in the attack. Five others were detained and released later in the day.
Palestinian sources said that Israeli forces drove 500 into the Gaza Strip and are combing the area between the Kerem Shalom crossing point and Sufa crossing point.
Muawiya Hassanain, the director of the ambulance and emergency department in the Palestinian Health Ministry, said that no injuries were reported in connection with the incursion.
The Al-Aqsa Brigades, the armed wing of the Fatah movement, claimed to have fired two homemade projectiles at an Israeli tank.
In a separate incident, Israeli naval forces fired on Palestinian fishing boats off the coast of the As-Sudaniyah of the northern Gaza.
Witnesses said Israeli tanks left behind a swath of destroyed farmland and other property. Eight dunams (one dunam is 1000 square meters) of land belonging to farmer Yasser Jaber, and the largest chicken farm in the Rafah area were destroyed.
Israeli troops siezed three Palestinians in the attack. Five others were detained and released later in the day.
Palestinian sources said that Israeli forces drove 500 into the Gaza Strip and are combing the area between the Kerem Shalom crossing point and Sufa crossing point.
Muawiya Hassanain, the director of the ambulance and emergency department in the Palestinian Health Ministry, said that no injuries were reported in connection with the incursion.
The Al-Aqsa Brigades, the armed wing of the Fatah movement, claimed to have fired two homemade projectiles at an Israeli tank.
In a separate incident, Israeli naval forces fired on Palestinian fishing boats off the coast of the As-Sudaniyah of the northern Gaza.
Palestinian fighters shell Sufa crossing
PRC spokesperson: major assault on Gaza would provoke attack in the "heart of Israel"
Armed Palestinian groups in Gaza prepared for large-scale Israeli attack
Abu Ali Mustafa Brigades, Al-Quds Brigades shell Sderot
PRC spokesperson: major assault on Gaza would provoke attack in the "heart of Israel"
Armed Palestinian groups in Gaza prepared for large-scale Israeli attack
Abu Ali Mustafa Brigades, Al-Quds Brigades shell Sderot
