Reports

Special Report | Gaza: The Living Memory When Israel began constructing what it called the “security barrier” in June 2002, Palestinians were not simply confronted with a temporary security measure. Instead, they found themselves facing one of the most extensive projects aimed at reshaping Palestinian geography and demographics since the occupation of 1967. More than two decades later, the Separation Wall has become a physical and political reality stretching across most of the occupied West Bank, encircling Jerusalem, and directly affecting the lives of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians. What began as a system of fences, trenches, military roads, and surveillance infrastructure evolved in many areas into a massive concrete wall reaching heights of up to eight meters. It separates cities from villages, neighborhoods from one another, farmers from their lands, students from their schools, and patients from medical services, while effectively redrawing realities on the ground in ways that reinforce Israel’s settlement project. How the Project Began At the height of the Second Palestinian Intifada, the Israeli government announced in 2002 the construction of the wall, arguing that it was necessary to prevent attacks originating from the West Bank. However, from the earliest stages, the route of the barrier generated significant controversy. Rather than following the Green Line—the 1949 Armistice Line widely recognized internationally as the basis for the boundary between Israel and the territories occupied in 1967—the wall penetrated deep into the West Bank, surrounding major Israeli settlement blocs and isolating extensive areas of Palestinian land. According to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), the planned route of the wall extends approximately **712 kilometers**, more than double the length of the Green Line itself. The Wall in Numbers General Route * Planned length: approximately **712 km** * Completed by 2026: more than **85%** * Height of concrete sections: between **8 and 9 meters** * Agricultural and military gates: dozens along the route * Military checkpoints and crossings connected to the wall: dozens Isolated Land United Nations estimates indicate that the route of the wall effectively isolates: * Approximately **9.4% of the West Bank** * More than **700,000 dunams** of Palestinian land * Tens of thousands of dunams planted with olive trees, almonds, and seasonal crops The wall has also affected hundreds of Palestinian communities to varying degrees. Jerusalem: The Primary Target Although the wall stretches across the West Bank, Jerusalem has always been at the heart of the project. From the outset, Israeli governments used the wall as a tool to establish new de facto boundaries for Jerusalem that differ from internationally recognized borders. The wall forms a near-continuous ring around the city from: * The north * The east * The south * The northwest Only limited areas remain connected through Israeli-controlled checkpoints and crossings. The “Greater Jerusalem” Project The route of the wall is closely linked to the Israeli concept of “Greater Jerusalem,” which aims to incorporate surrounding settlement blocs into the city and integrate them economically and geographically with West Jerusalem. Among the major settlement blocs benefiting from the wall are: * Ma’ale Adumim east of Jerusalem * Givat Ze’ev northwest of the city * Gush Etzion south of Jerusalem These settlement blocs contain dozens of settlements that have become physically connected to Jerusalem through a sophisticated network of roads and infrastructure. Palestinians Trapped Behind the Wall One of the most significant consequences of the wall has been the isolation of Palestinian Jerusalem ID holders from the city itself. Jerusalem institutions estimate that more than **140,000 Palestinians** officially residing within Jerusalem’s municipal boundaries now live on the opposite side of the wall. Among the most affected areas are: * Kafr Aqab * Shuafat Refugee Camp * Ras Khamis * Ras Shehadeh * Dahiyat al-Salam As a result, many residents continue to carry Jerusalem residency documents and pay municipal taxes while remaining physically disconnected from most municipal services and urban life. Severing Jerusalem from the West Bank Before the construction of the wall, Jerusalem served as the natural center of Palestinian life in the West Bank. It was home to: * Major hospitals * Universities * Religious institutions * Commercial markets The wall disrupted these historic links. Today, cities such as: * Ramallah * Bethlehem * Jericho are connected to Jerusalem only through Israeli military checkpoints and controlled crossings. The Agricultural Catastrophe Agriculture has been among the sectors hardest hit by the wall. Thousands of Palestinian farmers found themselves separated from their lands, which became trapped behind the barrier. To access their property, farmers often must: * Obtain Israeli permits * Pass through military-controlled gates * Adhere to limited opening hours In many cases, gates open only during specific agricultural seasons or for a few hours each day. Olive Trees Behind Barbed Wire Palestinian data indicate that tens of thousands of olive trees are now located beyond the wall. This has led to: * Reduced agricultural maintenance * Declining harvests * Major economic losses * The gradual abandonment of farmland The impact has been particularly severe in the governorates of Qalqilya, Salfit, Tulkarm, and Jenin. The Wall and the Settlement Enterprise Urban planning experts argue that the route of the wall cannot be separated from Israel’s settlement strategy. More than **80% of Israeli settlers living in the West Bank** are located either west of the wall or within areas directly connected to it. The wall has contributed to: * Protecting major settlement blocs * Facilitating settlement expansion * Strengthening Israeli control over surrounding lands * Fragmenting Palestinian territorial continuity Enclosed Villages Dozens of Palestinian villages have become trapped between the wall and the Green Line or between different sections of the barrier. Some communities can only be reached through military-controlled gates. This has affected: * Education * Healthcare * Trade * Social and family life In many cases, residents must cross checkpoints daily to reach schools, workplaces, and medical facilities. Impact on Health and Education The wall has significantly complicated access to Jerusalem’s main hospitals, including: * Al-Makassed Hospital * Al-Mutlaa (Augusta Victoria) Hospital * Augusta Victoria Medical Complex Thousands of students have also been affected, as access to schools and universities in Jerusalem became increasingly restricted. The International Court of Justice Ruling On July 9, 2004, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) issued a landmark advisory opinion declaring that the construction of the wall inside occupied Palestinian territory was contrary to international law. The Court concluded that: * The wall violates international law. * Construction should cease. * Sections built within occupied territory should be dismantled. * Palestinians affected by the project should receive compensation. Despite the ruling, construction and expansion continued. What Changed After October 7, 2023? Following the outbreak of the Gaza war, Israel further intensified its reliance on the wall and its associated checkpoint system. The West Bank experienced: * Unprecedented movement restrictions * Closure of numerous agricultural gates * Increased limitations on Palestinian workers * Expansion of military checkpoints The wall became part of a broader system of closures that further isolated Palestinian cities and communities. A Tool for Redrawing the Map Legal experts and urban planners argue that the wall’s most profound impact has not been its physical presence alone, but its role in reshaping Palestinian geography. The wall has: * Isolated nearly **10% of the West Bank** * Cut Jerusalem off from its Palestinian surroundings * Linked major settlement blocs to Israel * Restricted the movement of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians * Created new de facto boundaries on the ground More than twenty years after construction began, the Separation Wall has become one of the most visible and consequential features of the Israeli occupation. It is not merely a structure of concrete and barbed wire, but a comprehensive system that reshapes geography, demographics, mobility, and control over land. In Jerusalem, the wall has become a mechanism for isolating the city from its Palestinian hinterland while integrating surrounding settlements into the “Greater Jerusalem” framework. Across the West Bank, it has fragmented territorial continuity, disrupted social and economic life, and imposed lasting consequences on Palestinian communities. Today, the Separation Wall remains one of the most significant symbols of the conflict over land, identity, sovereignty, and the future of Palestine..

Special Report | Gaza: The Living Memory While the world's attention remained focused on the war in the Gaza Strip after October 7, 2023, another battle was unfolding quietly in occupied Jerusalem, largely beyond the spotlight of international media. In the neighborhoods of Sheikh Jarrah and Silwan—long regarded as symbols of the Palestinian struggle for existence in Jerusalem—Palestinians faced an escalation in eviction orders, home demolitions, arrests, and settler takeovers of residential properties. Residents and rights advocates describe this period as one of the most dangerous waves of displacement the city has witnessed in recent years. What is taking place is not merely a series of isolated property disputes or municipal measures. Rather, it is a struggle over the future of Jerusalem itself. As settler organizations seek to expand their presence inside Palestinian neighborhoods surrounding the Old City and Al-Aqsa Mosque, hundreds of Palestinian families face the possibility of losing homes they have inhabited for generations. East Jerusalem: The Core of the Settlement Project Since Israel occupied East Jerusalem in 1967 and later annexed it in a move not recognized by the international community, the city has remained at the center of Israeli settlement policies. Palestinian neighborhoods surrounding the Old City—particularly Sheikh Jarrah and Silwan—have become strategic targets for settler organizations due to their geographic, political, and religious significance. Sheikh Jarrah lies on the northern gateway to the Old City, while Silwan stretches directly south of Al-Aqsa Mosque. Control over these areas is widely viewed as a key component of efforts to reshape Jerusalem’s demographic and geographic reality. After October 7: Reduced International Scrutiny and Increased Pressure Jerusalem researchers and Palestinian institutions argue that the war in Gaza created conditions that enabled the acceleration of settlement-related measures in Jerusalem. As international attention shifted toward Gaza, global political pressure and media scrutiny surrounding eviction and demolition cases in Jerusalem significantly declined. This allowed legal and administrative procedures that had previously attracted widespread international criticism to move forward with fewer obstacles. Residents of Silwan interviewed by United Nations agencies reported that life became increasingly difficult after October 7, with growing fears of protesting or challenging Israeli measures. Sheikh Jarrah: The Battle That Never Ended Sheikh Jarrah became an international symbol of resistance against forced displacement in 2021, when attempts to evict Palestinian families sparked global solidarity campaigns and widespread protests. However, despite the decline in international media attention following the Gaza war, legal proceedings aimed at removing Palestinian families from their homes have continued. Throughout 2025, Israeli courts continued reviewing eviction cases linked to the settler organization Nahalat Shimon. Among the most prominent was the case involving the family of Saleh Diab, which faced eviction after unsuccessful appeals before Israeli courts. Human rights organizations emphasize that the struggle in Sheikh Jarrah extends beyond individual families or homes. It is part of a broader effort to strengthen settler presence inside Palestinian neighborhoods of East Jerusalem. Silwan: The Most Dangerous Frontline in Jerusalem If Sheikh Jarrah became a symbol of the struggle, Silwan has emerged as its primary battleground. Located immediately adjacent to Al-Aqsa Mosque, Silwan is home to tens of thousands of Palestinians and is considered one of the most heavily targeted areas for settlement expansion. Three neighborhoods within Silwan stand at the center of the conflict: Batn al-Hawa Al-Bustan Wadi Hilweh Settler organizations, most notably Ateret Cohanim and Elad, have pursued long-term campaigns aimed at gaining control over Palestinian properties throughout these areas. Batn al-Hawa: The Largest Collective Eviction Case Batn al-Hawa represents one of the largest ongoing forced-displacement cases in occupied Jerusalem. According to United Nations data, approximately 87 Palestinian families, comprising between 600 and 680 individuals, have faced eviction lawsuits filed by settler organizations claiming ownership of the land. Since October 7, 2023, the pace of evictions in the neighborhood has increased significantly. In March 2026, the United Nations reported that 28 Palestinian families, totaling around 160 people, had been forcibly displaced from Batn al-Hawa since the outbreak of the war. The pace of removals accelerated noticeably throughout 2025 and 2026. In March 2026 alone, 16 Palestinian families were removed from their homes within the span of a few days, marking one of the largest waves of displacement the neighborhood has experienced in years. Al-Bustan: The Threat of Mass Demolitions Only a short distance from the walls of Al-Aqsa Mosque lies the neighborhood of Al-Bustan. For years, Israeli authorities have pursued plans to demolish dozens of Palestinian homes in the area in order to advance tourism and settlement projects associated with what is known as the "City of David" archaeological and biblical park. Human rights estimates indicate that approximately 150 homes remain at risk of demolition or displacement, affecting nearly 1,500 Palestinians. Residents fear that projects delayed for years could now be implemented amid reduced international attention resulting from the war. Home Demolitions as a Demographic Tool The pressure on Palestinian residents has not been limited to eviction proceedings. Across East Jerusalem—and particularly in Silwan—Israeli authorities have continued demolishing Palestinian homes on the grounds that they lack building permits. Palestinians and human rights organizations argue that obtaining Israeli building permits in Jerusalem is extremely difficult, leaving many families with no option but to build without permits and subsequently face demolition orders. European and United Nations reports have concluded that these policies contribute to reducing the Palestinian presence in Jerusalem and, in some cases, force families to leave the city altogether. Arrests: Another Mechanism of Control The expansion of settlement activities has been accompanied by an increase in arrests, interrogations, and legal restrictions targeting Palestinians in Jerusalem. During the war period, Israeli forces carried out extensive arrest campaigns involving young Palestinians, activists, and residents who protested against demolition or eviction measures. Human rights organizations have also documented arrests during eviction operations in Silwan, as well as assaults on residents and restrictions imposed on journalists attempting to cover events. Legal advocates argue that these measures aim to weaken the ability of Jerusalem’s Palestinian community to organize public resistance or document violations. Settlements Inside Palestinian Neighborhoods Unlike traditional settlements built on the outskirts of Jerusalem, settlement activity in Sheikh Jarrah and Silwan operates from within Palestinian neighborhoods themselves. Following many eviction cases, properties are transferred to settler organizations, which then move Israeli settlers into the homes under police protection. Since 2004, settler groups have taken control of dozens of buildings in Silwan. This process has continued and accelerated during the period following the Gaza war. Researchers argue that the long-term objective is to establish a continuous ring of settler presence surrounding the Old City and Al-Aqsa Mosque, thereby altering Jerusalem’s demographic balance for generations to come. International Reactions Developments in Sheikh Jarrah and Silwan have prompted repeated criticism from the United Nations, the European Union, and international human rights organizations. In July 2024, the United Nations warned that more than 80 Palestinian families in Silwan faced the risk of forced displacement and described the legal framework used against Palestinians as discriminatory and inconsistent with international law. UN officials further stated that forced evictions in occupied territory may amount to serious violations of international humanitarian law. Despite repeated international condemnations, however, demolition orders, settlement expansion, and eviction proceedings have continued. Jerusalem Between Resilience and Displacement For Palestinians, Sheikh Jarrah and Silwan are far more than residential neighborhoods. They are viewed as the front line in the struggle to preserve the Palestinian presence in Jerusalem. Every demolished home, every displaced family, and every property transferred to settler organizations is seen as part of a broader contest over the city’s future identity. As Palestinian families continue legal battles and grassroots campaigns to defend their homes, concerns are growing that developments since October 7, 2023, could fundamentally reshape the demographic landscape of occupied Jerusalem. Conclusion Since the outbreak of the war on Gaza, Sheikh Jarrah and Silwan have witnessed an unprecedented escalation of pressure on Palestinian residents. Forced evictions have accelerated, demolition orders have continued, arrests have increased, and settler organizations have expanded their influence within Palestinian neighborhoods surrounding the Old City. While the United Nations and international organizations continue to warn of the dangers of mass displacement and demographic transformation, Sheikh Jarrah and Silwan remain symbols of a larger struggle over Jerusalem itself—its identity, its future, and its place at the center of one of the world's most enduring conflicts..

Special Report | Gaza: The Living Memory Since October 7, 2023, Al-Aqsa Mosque has entered an unprecedented phase of escalation, coinciding with Israel's war on the Gaza Strip and the broader military escalation across the occupied Palestinian territories. Over the course of more than two years, Israeli measures at Al-Aqsa evolved from temporary security restrictions into a sustained policy characterized by repeated closures, severe limitations on Muslim worshippers, large-scale settler incursions, and the increasing presence of Israeli ministers and officials inside the mosque compound, most notably Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir. Experts on Jerusalem affairs argue that the period following October 2023 represents one of the most dangerous phases for Al-Aqsa Mosque since Israel occupied East Jerusalem in 1967. The concern stems not only from the unprecedented number of settler incursions but also from growing efforts to normalize Jewish religious rituals inside the compound and expand restrictions on Muslim worshippers, particularly during the holy month of Ramadan. Al-Aqsa: Religious and Symbolic Significance Al-Aqsa Mosque occupies a unique position in Islam. It is the first qibla (direction of prayer), the third holiest site in Islam after Mecca and Medina, and the destination of the Prophet Muhammad’s Night Journey and Ascension (Isra and Mi'raj). The Al-Aqsa compound encompasses approximately 144 dunams (about 35 acres) within Jerusalem’s Old City, including Al-Qibli Mosque, the Dome of the Rock, prayer halls, courtyards, arcades, and historic structures. Jordan, through the Islamic Waqf, maintains custodianship over the holy site and regards the entire compound as an exclusively Muslim place of worship. Palestinian and Jordanian authorities have consistently rejected Israeli efforts to alter the historical and legal status quo governing the site. The First Days of the War: Near-Total Closure Immediately following the outbreak of war on October 7, 2023, Israeli authorities imposed unprecedented restrictions on Jerusalem and Al-Aqsa Mosque. Large numbers of Muslim worshippers were denied access to the mosque. Military checkpoints multiplied throughout the Old City, and most Palestinians from the occupied West Bank were prevented from entering Jerusalem. Even Palestinian residents of Jerusalem faced heightened restrictions and security checks. Jerusalem-based institutions described this period as one of the strictest closures imposed on Al-Aqsa in years, resulting in a dramatic decline in attendance compared to the pre-war period. A Surge in Settler Incursions While international attention focused primarily on Gaza, Al-Aqsa Mosque witnessed a sharp escalation in settler incursions. According to Palestinian monitoring organizations, the number of settlers entering the compound exceeded 124,000 between October 2023 and August 2025. The year 2024 alone recorded approximately 58,000 settlers, making it the highest annual figure since systematic documentation of incursions began. The first months of 2025 saw tens of thousands of additional incursions, further cementing the post-October 2023 period as the most intensive phase of settler activity in the modern history of Al-Aqsa Mosque. From Visits to Religious Rituals The incursions have not been limited to tours or visits. Palestinian institutions have documented a significant increase in the performance of Jewish religious rituals inside the mosque compound. These activities have included collective prayers, the recitation of religious texts, the raising of Israeli flags, and acts such as "epic prostration" performed by settler groups. The Islamic Waqf and Palestinian authorities view these practices as direct violations of the historical status quo governing the site. Researchers argue that the most significant shift is not merely the increase in the number of settlers entering the compound but the transformation of these incursions into attempts to establish a permanent Jewish religious presence within the sanctuary. Itamar Ben-Gvir: The Face of Al-Aqsa Incursions Since assuming office as Israel’s National Security Minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir has become the political figure most closely associated with incursions into Al-Aqsa Mosque. Since the outbreak of the war, Ben-Gvir has entered the compound at least 13 times, bringing his total number of visits since taking office in late 2022 to approximately 16 incursions. During several of these visits, Ben-Gvir was seen participating in Jewish prayers and religious rituals within the compound. His appearances sparked widespread condemnation from Palestinians, Jordan, Arab governments, and Islamic organizations. Palestinian officials view these visits as carrying political significance beyond their religious dimension, interpreting them as attempts to reinforce Israeli claims of sovereignty over the site. Jewish Holidays and Peak Incursion Seasons Jewish religious holidays have become periods of intensified activity at Al-Aqsa Mosque. During Passover, Sukkot, and commemorations associated with the destruction of the Jewish Temple, the compound has witnessed some of the largest settler gatherings in recent years. Israeli ministers, members of the Knesset, and prominent rabbis have participated in these events, which frequently include collective prayers, religious chants, and symbolic ceremonies inside the compound. Palestinians regard these occasions as flashpoints capable of triggering broader unrest in Jerusalem and beyond. Ramadan Under Restrictions Ramadan holds exceptional significance at Al-Aqsa Mosque. For decades, hundreds of thousands of Palestinians gathered at the site during Fridays, the last ten nights of Ramadan, and Laylat al-Qadr (the Night of Power). However, Ramadan during the war years unfolded under unprecedented restrictions. In both Ramadan 2024 and Ramadan 2025, Israeli authorities imposed severe limitations on access to Jerusalem for Palestinians from the West Bank. Entry was conditioned on age restrictions and special permits. During Ramadan 2025, only men above the age of 55 and women above the age of 50 were generally allowed entry under specific conditions, while all worshippers were subjected to extensive security checks. Military checkpoints surrounding Jerusalem and the Old City further restricted access for tens of thousands of Palestinians seeking to pray at Al-Aqsa. I'tikaf and Laylat al-Qadr I'tikaf—the practice of spiritual retreat during the final ten days of Ramadan—has long been one of the most important traditions associated with Al-Aqsa Mosque. During the war period, Jerusalem institutions documented repeated restrictions on worshippers seeking to observe I'tikaf. Security measures inside the compound intensified, while arrests and exclusion orders targeted worshippers, activists, guards, and employees of the Islamic Waqf. Despite these measures, large crowds continued to attend prayers during Ramadan, especially on Laylat al-Qadr, reflecting the profound religious and national significance of the mosque. Arrests and Exclusion Orders The escalation at Al-Aqsa was accompanied by an expansion of Israeli policies aimed at restricting Palestinian presence at the site. Dozens of exclusion orders were issued against mosque guards, Waqf employees, activists, and worshippers, preventing them from entering the compound for varying periods. Arrests at the gates of Al-Aqsa and throughout Jerusalem’s Old City also increased, often targeting Palestinians attempting to access the mosque. Human rights advocates argue that these policies are intended to weaken local Palestinian presence and limit documentation of Israeli actions at the site. Jordan: Al-Aqsa Belongs Exclusively to Muslims As custodian of Jerusalem’s Islamic and Christian holy sites, Jordan repeatedly condemned settler incursions and visits by Israeli officials. Jordan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs consistently reaffirmed that the entire 144-dunam compound constitutes an exclusively Muslim place of worship and warned that any attempt to alter its legal and historical status violates international law. Jordan also lodged repeated diplomatic protests against visits by Ben-Gvir and other Israeli officials. Palestinian, Arab, and Islamic Condemnations The Palestinian Authority, the Islamic Waqf, Palestinian political factions, the Arab League, and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation have all repeatedly condemned developments at Al-Aqsa. These institutions argue that continued incursions constitute a provocation to Muslims worldwide and a violation of international law and established agreements governing the site. They have warned that any change to the status quo at Al-Aqsa carries consequences extending far beyond Palestine and could destabilize the broader region. The United Nations and International Responses The United Nations, the European Union, and numerous governments have expressed concern regarding rising tensions at Al-Aqsa Mosque. International bodies have repeatedly warned that any attempt to alter the status quo in the Holy Sanctuary could trigger wider instability in Jerusalem, the occupied Palestinian territories, and the region as a whole. However, Palestinian institutions maintain that international condemnations have failed to halt incursions or ease restrictions imposed on Muslim worshippers. The Most Significant Transformation in Decades Experts on Jerusalem increasingly argue that the most consequential development since October 2023 is not any single measure but the convergence of multiple trends: Record-breaking numbers of settler incursions. Increased performance of Jewish religious rituals inside the compound. Repeated visits by senior Israeli ministers. Expanded restrictions on Muslim worshippers. Increased use of arrests and exclusion orders. Efforts to establish a new religious and political reality within the sanctuary. Taken together, these developments represent a qualitative shift compared to previous years. Conclusion Since October 7, 2023, Al-Aqsa Mosque has become one of the central arenas of conflict in occupied Jerusalem. Between repeated closures, restrictions on worshippers, settler incursions exceeding 124,000 individuals, and the recurring visits of Itamar Ben-Gvir and other Israeli officials, the mosque has entered what many Palestinians describe as its most dangerous period in decades. As Muslims continue to regard Al-Aqsa as a sacred religious, historical, and national symbol, concerns are growing that ongoing Israeli policies may fundamentally alter the historical status quo that has governed the site for generations. Such changes would carry profound religious, political, and regional implications extending far beyond Jerusalem and Palestine, resonating throughout the Muslim world..

Gaza: The Living Memory Since the outbreak of the war on October 7, 2023, developments have not been confined to the Gaza Strip. The occupied West Bank has witnessed one of the largest waves of settlement expansion in decades, accompanied by an unprecedented rise in settler violence, land confiscation, and the establishment of new settlement outposts. In response, international and regional actors issued a series of statements rejecting Israeli settlement activities. However, a significant gap has remained between political positions and concrete actions, raising questions about the international community’s ability to halt settlement expansion or mitigate its consequences. United Nations: Settlements Are Illegal and Undermine the Two-State Solution Since the beginning of the war, the United Nations has repeatedly reaffirmed its long-standing position that all Israeli settlements in the occupied Palestinian territory are illegal under international law. UN Secretary-General António Guterres has stated on multiple occasions that settlement expansion constitutes a violation of international law and represents a major obstacle to peace. The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights has also warned that the rapid growth of settlements and the establishment of new outposts are contributing to the displacement of Palestinians and undermining the viability of an independent and geographically contiguous Palestinian state. Successive UN reports have documented significant increases in settlement construction and settler violence across the West Bank since October 2023. International Court of Justice: Occupation and Settlements Violate International Law In July 2024, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) issued a landmark advisory opinion concluding that Israel’s continued occupation of Palestinian territory, including its settlement activities, is contrary to international law. The Court affirmed that Israeli settlements in the occupied Palestinian territory violate international legal obligations and called for an end to policies that alter the demographic composition and character of the occupied territory. Although the advisory opinion is not legally binding, it has become a significant legal reference point for subsequent international positions regarding Israeli settlement policies. European Union: A Consistent Rejection of Settlements The European Union has maintained its long-standing opposition to Israeli settlement activities. The EU has repeatedly emphasized that all settlements in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, are illegal under international law. European officials have consistently condemned Israeli decisions authorizing thousands of new settlement housing units, arguing that such measures directly threaten the viability of the two-state solution. Throughout 2024 and 2025, the European Union also discussed additional measures against settlers involved in violence against Palestinians and supported sanctions targeting individuals and entities linked to serious settler attacks. France: Settlement Expansion Threatens Peace France has adopted one of the clearest European positions regarding Israeli settlement activities. The French government has repeatedly declared that settlements are illegal under international law and constitute a major obstacle to peace. Paris has condemned Israeli decisions to expand settlements and legalize new outposts, arguing that these measures seriously undermine prospects for a just and lasting political solution. France has also called for an immediate halt to all settlement activities and urged greater protection for Palestinian civilians living in areas affected by settler violence. United Kingdom: Sanctions on Violent Settlers The United Kingdom took unprecedented practical steps during 2024 and 2025. In addition to condemning settlement expansion, London imposed sanctions on several Israeli settlers and organizations linked to violent attacks against Palestinians in the West Bank. These measures included asset freezes and travel bans, reflecting growing concern over the impact of settler violence on regional stability. The British government has repeatedly reaffirmed that settlements are illegal under international law and remain a major obstacle to peace. Spain: One of the Strongest Critics of Settlement Policies Spain emerged as one of the most vocal European critics of Israeli settlement expansion following the war. The Spanish government has consistently linked settlement growth to the deterioration of prospects for a negotiated political solution. Madrid has supported European sanctions against violent settlers and called for stronger international measures to prevent the confiscation of Palestinian land and the continued expansion of settlements. This position forms part of Spain’s broader policy of support for Palestinian rights during the post-war period. Germany: Support for the Two-State Solution and Diplomatic Pressure Despite its close relationship with Israel, Germany has repeatedly stated that settlement activities violate international law. Berlin has expressed concern regarding the sharp increase in settlement construction and condemned attacks carried out by settlers against Palestinian civilians. However, Germany has generally favored diplomatic engagement and political pressure rather than broad sanctions targeting settlement activities. United States: Growing Criticism and Limited Measures While maintaining strong political and military support for Israel, the United States adopted a more critical tone regarding settler violence after October 2023. The administration of President Joe Biden imposed sanctions on several Israeli settlers accused of involvement in attacks against Palestinians. Washington also criticized the expansion of settlements and the legalization of new outposts, arguing that such actions undermine the prospects for peace. However, the United States stopped short of imposing comprehensive sanctions on the settlement enterprise itself, leading critics to view the measures as limited in scope and impact. Arab League: Condemnation and Diplomatic Action The Arab League has consistently reaffirmed its rejection of Israeli settlement policies. Through a series of statements and resolutions, the organization described settlement expansion as a blatant violation of international law and United Nations resolutions. The League has repeatedly called on the international community to take concrete measures to halt settlement construction and hold Israel accountable for policies involving land confiscation and the displacement of Palestinians. Settlement expansion has remained a permanent item on the agenda of Arab ministerial meetings since the outbreak of the war. Organization of Islamic Cooperation: Warning Against Demographic Transformation The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has strongly condemned Israeli settlement activities, describing them as part of a broader effort to alter the geographic and demographic character of the occupied Palestinian territory. The organization has called upon the international community to provide protection for the Palestinian people and to ensure the immediate cessation of all settlement activities. Between International Positions and Reality on the Ground Despite broad international consensus regarding the illegality of Israeli settlements, settlement expansion has continued at an accelerated pace since October 2023. During this period, Israeli authorities approved tens of thousands of new settlement housing units, legalized and established numerous settlement outposts, and oversaw a period marked by unprecedented levels of settler violence. This reality suggests that most international responses have remained largely confined to political condemnation and limited diplomatic pressure, without producing substantial changes on the ground. From the United Nations and the European Union to France, the United Kingdom, Spain, the Arab League, and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, there is near-universal international agreement that Israeli settlements violate international law and threaten the prospects for peace. Yet the gap between diplomatic condemnation and developments on the ground continues to widen. While governments and international organizations issue statements of concern, settlement expansion proceeds, reshaping the geography of the occupied West Bank and raising fundamental questions about the effectiveness of the international response in one of the world's longest-running conflicts..

Special Report | Gaza: The Living Memory Since October 7, 2023, the repercussions of the war have extended far beyond the Gaza Strip. While international attention has focused on the military campaign and humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, the occupied West Bank has witnessed an unprecedented escalation in violence carried out by Israeli settlers. What was once described as sporadic settler attacks has evolved into a systematic and organized campaign targeting Palestinian communities, their lands, livelihoods, and property. According to data published by the Palestinian Wall and Settlement Resistance Commission, Israeli settlers carried out a total of 7,154 attacks against Palestinians and their property in the West Bank between October 7, 2023 and October 2025, marking the highest level of settler violence recorded during a comparable period. The Commission also documented more than 38,000 violations committed by Israeli occupation forces and settlers combined during the same period, reflecting the scale of escalation that has gripped the West Bank since the outbreak of the war. An Unprecedented Surge in Settler Attacks According to the Wall and Settlement Resistance Commission, settler attacks have taken multiple forms, including armed assaults on Palestinian villages, direct shootings at civilians, arson attacks against homes and vehicles, destruction of agricultural land, assaults on farmers and shepherds, and the establishment of new settlement outposts on privately owned Palestinian land. During the first half of 2025 alone, the Commission recorded 2,153 settler attacks, concentrated primarily in the governorates of Ramallah and Al-Bireh, Hebron, and Nablus, which have become focal points of daily settler violence. The Commission noted that many of these attacks are no longer carried out by isolated individuals. Instead, they increasingly involve organized groups operating collectively, often under the protection or direct presence of Israeli military forces. Settlement Outposts: A Tool for Control and Displacement One of the most significant developments since October 2023 has been the rapid expansion of agricultural and pastoral settlement outposts. Data from the Wall and Settlement Resistance Commission indicate that settlers established 114 new outposts between October 2023 and October 2025, an unprecedented figure in the history of Israel’s settlement enterprise. The distribution of these outposts was concentrated in the following areas: Ramallah and Al-Bireh: 30 outposts Hebron: 25 outposts Nablus: 18 outposts Bethlehem: 14 outposts Additional outposts across the Jordan Valley, Jerusalem, Qalqilya, and Salfit Pastoral outposts have emerged as one of the most effective mechanisms of territorial control. Through these outposts, settlers gradually seize extensive grazing lands and agricultural areas while preventing Palestinian owners from accessing their property. Forced Displacement of Palestinian Communities The escalation of settler violence has directly contributed to the forced displacement of Palestinian communities, particularly Bedouin and pastoral populations. According to the Wall and Settlement Resistance Commission, settler attacks and newly established outposts led to the displacement of 33 entire Palestinian communities, comprising 455 families and more than 2,853 individuals. United Nations documentation similarly indicates that more than 2,200 Palestinians were displaced from 33 communities that were completely emptied of their residents due to settler violence, land seizures, and restrictions on access to water and grazing resources. The most affected areas include the northern Jordan Valley, Masafer Yatta south of Hebron, eastern Ramallah, and large portions of Area C. Targeting Agricultural Land and Olive Trees Agricultural land has become a primary target in efforts to consolidate settler control over territory. Reports issued by the Wall and Settlement Resistance Commission indicate that settlers and Israeli occupation forces destroyed or damaged more than 12,000 Palestinian trees during the first half of 2025 alone, including over 6,100 olive trees. The governorates of Bethlehem, Ramallah, and Nablus experienced the highest levels of agricultural destruction. Documented violations include: Uprooting olive and fruit trees Burning agricultural fields Preventing farmers from reaching their land Damaging water networks and wells Releasing livestock into cultivated fields to destroy crops These actions have caused substantial economic losses for Palestinian families that depend on agriculture as a primary source of income. Killings and Injuries According to the Wall and Settlement Resistance Commission, settler attacks resulted in the killing of 33 Palestinians between October 2023 and October 2025. The victims were distributed across the following governorates: Nablus: 14 fatalities Ramallah and Al-Bireh: 12 fatalities Hebron: 3 fatalities Bethlehem: 1 fatality Qalqilya: 1 fatality Salfit: 1 fatality In addition, hundreds of Palestinians sustained injuries ranging from minor wounds to life-threatening conditions as a result of shootings, physical assaults, and large-scale attacks on Palestinian communities. International Documentation of Rising Violence International organizations have also documented a dramatic increase in settler violence following October 7, 2023. United Nations agencies recorded 1,732 settler-related incidents resulting in casualties, property damage, or both within a relatively short period. Human rights organizations likewise reported a significant rise in organized attacks targeting Palestinian civilians and infrastructure. A United Nations investigative body reported in 2026 that settler violence had increased by more than 130 percent compared to previous periods, while identifying patterns suggesting that settlers often received protection or support during attacks. From Individual Violence to a Policy of Creating Facts on the Ground Researchers and human rights organizations increasingly argue that the violence witnessed in the West Bank since October 2023 extends beyond isolated acts of extremism. Instead, it appears to form part of a broader strategy aimed at: Expanding control over Palestinian land Enlarging existing settlements Establishing new settlement outposts Forcing Palestinian communities out of targeted areas Creating new geographic realities that strengthen Israeli control over Area C Observers note that the connection between settler violence and settlement expansion has become increasingly evident, with violence functioning as a practical mechanism for territorial acquisition and demographic transformation. Since October 7, 2023, the occupied West Bank has entered a new phase of settler violence and territorial expansion. Settlers are no longer viewed merely as radical groups carrying out isolated attacks; they have become a central force in shaping realities on the ground. With more than 7,154 documented attacks, 114 new settlement outposts, 33 displaced Palestinian communities, and vast areas of agricultural land affected, a parallel conflict has unfolded away from the international spotlight. Its impact extends beyond immediate violence, contributing to a profound transformation of Palestinian geography and accelerating the consolidation of Israeli settlement control across the West Bank..

Special Report | Gaza: The Living Memory While the world's attention has largely focused on Israel's war on the Gaza Strip since October 7, 2023, the occupied West Bank has undergone profound and accelerating changes, marked by the largest wave of Israeli settlement expansion since its occupation in 1967. As international attention centered on the devastating humanitarian consequences of the war in Gaza, Israeli authorities moved rapidly to create new realities on the ground in the West Bank through accelerated settlement construction, the legalization of outposts, extensive land confiscation, and the expansion of settler influence. These developments have significantly altered the geographic and demographic landscape of the occupied territory. Nearly three years after the outbreak of the war, the West Bank faces a new reality defined by unprecedented settlement growth, a process many observers describe as the most significant phase of the Israeli settlement project in decades. Settlement Expansion After October 7: Unprecedented Numbers According to data published by Palestinian, Israeli, and international organizations monitoring settlement activity, Israeli authorities advanced plans for more than 68,000 new settlement housing units in the West Bank and occupied East Jerusalem between October 2023 and mid-2026. During the final months of 2023 alone, more than 12,000 housing units were approved, marking one of the highest annual figures recorded in recent years. In 2024, settlement activity intensified further, with approximately 28,872 new housing units approved, including nearly 19,000 units in occupied East Jerusalem alone. The upward trend continued throughout 2025, when Israeli authorities approved approximately 27,941 additional housing units, making it one of the most active years in the history of settlement expansion. By early 2026, thousands of additional housing units were being promoted across various parts of the West Bank, reflecting a sustained commitment to settlement growth. Legalizing Outposts: A Strategic Shift One of the most significant developments since October 7 has been the transition from expanding existing settlements to formally establishing and legalizing new ones. During this period, more than 120 settlement outposts were established or legalized throughout the West Bank. In 2025 alone, the Israeli government approved the legalization of 22 settlements in a single decision, a move widely described as the most extensive settlement authorization since the Oslo Accords of 1993. In 2026, settlement-monitoring organizations reported additional government plans aimed at creating dozens of new settlements, further strengthening Israeli control over Area C and connecting settlement blocs through new infrastructure. Area C: The Primary Target Most settlement projects have been concentrated in Area C, which constitutes approximately 61 percent of the West Bank. This area represents the strategic territorial reserve of a future Palestinian state and contains most of the region's agricultural land, natural resources, and groundwater reserves. Over the past three years, Area C has witnessed extensive settlement expansion, including the construction of bypass roads, the establishment of agricultural and pastoral settler farms, and the seizure of large areas of Palestinian-owned land. Human rights organizations estimate that settlements and regional settlement councils now exercise direct or indirect influence over vast portions of the West Bank. Jerusalem: The Centerpiece of Settlement Policy Occupied East Jerusalem has remained at the heart of Israeli settlement plans. The Israeli government has advanced major projects aimed at strengthening the settlement ring surrounding the city, expanding existing settlements, and creating new settlement neighborhoods. Experts argue that these projects are intended to prevent territorial continuity between the northern and southern West Bank, isolate Jerusalem from its Palestinian surroundings, and secure a permanent Israeli demographic majority within the city. Settler Violence as a Parallel Tool of Expansion Settlement growth has not been limited to construction activity. It has been accompanied by a sharp rise in violence carried out by Israeli settlers against Palestinian communities. Since October 2023, human rights organizations have documented thousands of attacks targeting Palestinian villages and communities. These incidents have included the burning of homes and vehicles, the uprooting of olive trees, assaults on farmers and shepherds, road blockages, and restrictions preventing Palestinians from accessing their agricultural lands. As a result, numerous Bedouin and rural communities, particularly in the Jordan Valley, Masafer Yatta, and areas surrounding Ramallah and Nablus, have been forced to leave their homes. The Silent Displacement of Palestinians Human rights experts regard forced displacement as one of the most serious consequences of settlement expansion during this period. Under the combined pressure of settler violence, land confiscation, military restrictions, and economic hardship, many Palestinian families have been compelled to abandon areas where they have lived for generations. United Nations reports indicate that tens of thousands of Palestinians have been directly affected by settlement-related policies and violence since the outbreak of the Gaza war. The De Facto Annexation of the West Bank A growing number of analysts and researchers argue that developments in the West Bank since October 7 represent more than conventional settlement expansion. Instead, they view them as part of a gradual process of de facto annexation. This process is reflected in: * The establishment and legalization of new settlements. * The expansion of powers granted to settlement councils. * The construction of permanent roads and infrastructure serving settlers. * The integration of settlements into Israeli governmental systems. * The reduction of Palestinian presence in targeted areas. Observers warn that these measures make the prospect of a geographically contiguous Palestinian state increasingly difficult to achieve. Historical Conclusion The years following October 7, 2023, represent one of the most critical periods in the history of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict. While the Gaza Strip endured a devastating war, the West Bank experienced a parallel transformation characterized by extensive settlement expansion and territorial fragmentation. Through the approval of tens of thousands of settlement units, the establishment and legalization of numerous settlements and outposts, and the escalation of displacement and settler violence, the landscape of the West Bank has changed dramatically. For many researchers and historians, this period will be remembered as a turning point in the history of the Israeli settlement enterprise and as one of the most significant efforts to reshape Palestinian geography since the occupation of 1967..

Medical sources in the Gaza Strip announced on Tuesday that the death toll from the ongoing Israeli aggression on the Strip has risen to 72,988 martyrs, with 173,205 others injured since the start of the aggression on October 7, 2023. The sources reported that hospitals in the Gaza Strip received 8 martyrs and 34 injuries over the past 24 hours. They further noted that the total number of martyrs since the ceasefire took effect on October 11 last year has risen to 978, and injuries to 3,097, while 782 bodies have been recovered. The sources emphasized that a number of victims still remain under the rubble and on the streets, as ambulance and rescue crews continue to be unable to reach them up to this moment..

Occupied Jerusalem – May 2026 witnessed a significant escalation of Israeli measures across Jerusalem, affecting holy sites, residential neighborhoods, Palestinian land, and religious and media institutions. Israeli authorities continued implementing policies of demolition, settlement expansion, forced displacement, arrests, and restrictions, reflecting ongoing efforts to reshape realities on the ground and consolidate control over the occupied city. Record Numbers of Incursions into Al-Aqsa Mosque According to documented figures, 7,244 Israeli settlers entered the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound during May, in addition to 2,690 visitors who entered under the designation of "tourism." The month recorded one of the highest levels of incursions witnessed in recent years. These incursions coincided with events marking the so-called "Jerusalem Day" and the Jewish holiday of Shavuot, during which groups performed Talmudic rituals, raised religious-nationalist slogans, and conducted what is known as "epic prostration" inside the compound under the protection of Israeli security forces. Similar activities were also documented during the Islamic Day of Arafah. Simultaneously, Israeli authorities continued issuing exclusion orders barring Palestinian activists, worshippers, journalists, and employees of the Islamic Waqf from entering Al-Aqsa Mosque for periods ranging from one week to six months. Three Palestinians Killed During May, three Palestinians were killed by Israeli forces in Jerusalem Governorate. Among them was Ayman Al-Hashlamoun, who was shot near Qalandia Refugee Camp, and Zakaria Qdeis, a Palestinian worker who was killed near the Separation Wall in Al-Ram while attempting to reach his workplace. Israeli authorities also continued withholding the bodies of some Palestinians killed during security incidents. Several additional injuries were recorded throughout the month due to live ammunition, rubber-coated bullets, and physical assaults by Israeli forces and settlers in areas including Al-Ram, Qalandia, Hizma, Beit Iksa, and Silwan. Escalating Settler Violence Jerusalem witnessed a series of attacks carried out by Israeli settlers against Palestinian residents and religious sites. Among the documented incidents was an attack on St. James Cathedral in the Armenian Quarter, restrictions imposed on farmers attempting to access their lands in Beit Iksa, and assaults against residents in the Old City, Sheikh Jarrah, and rural communities northwest of Jerusalem. One particularly severe attack targeted Palestinian driver Imad Al-Khatib in Tel Aviv, resulting in multiple fractures and loss of consciousness. 84 Demolitions and Land-Leveling Operations in a Single Month The report documented 84 demolition and land-leveling operations during May, including: 21 self-demolitions carried out by Palestinian owners under municipal pressure. 56 demolitions directly executed by Israeli authorities. 7 land-leveling operations. The demolished structures included homes, commercial establishments, agricultural facilities, and industrial properties across Silwan, Al-Ram, Al-Sawahra, Sur Baher, Qalandia, Al-Eizariya, and other communities. One of the most significant incidents occurred in the Al-Mashtal area of Al-Eizariya, where approximately 40 industrial and commercial facilities were demolished in what observers described as one of the largest collective demolition campaigns in recent years. By the end of the month, several families in Qalandia were forced to demolish their own homes, while other residences housing dozens of Palestinians were destroyed, highlighting growing concerns regarding forced displacement policies. Eviction Orders and Land Confiscation Israeli authorities issued 20 notices and administrative orders during the month, including demolition notices, eviction orders, and land confiscation decisions. Among the most notable measures was the confiscation of 109.79 dunams of land belonging to the villages of Nabi Samuel and Beit Iksa under the pretext of "public interest" and archaeological development projects. Human rights observers warned that such measures threaten Palestinian presence in strategically important areas surrounding the historic Nabi Samuel Mosque. Targeting Institutions and Religious Sites May also witnessed increased pressure on educational, media, and religious institutions. Incidents included attacks on journalists, arrests of media workers and Islamic Waqf employees, restrictions on public events, and confiscation of equipment. Israeli authorities additionally approved plans to transform a former UNRWA facility in Sheikh Jarrah into a military museum, recruitment center, and security complex. Continued Settlement Expansion The report recorded 15 settlement-related projects and plans during May. Israeli planning authorities approved projects involving 547 new settlement housing units, including a major development of 528 units in Gilo settlement. Additional settlement projects were reported in Ramot, Atarot, French Hill, Neve Yaakov, and Ma’ale Adumim, alongside initiatives affecting Mamilla Cemetery, the surroundings of Al-Aqsa Mosque, Bab Al-Silsila, and lands near Nabi Samuel. Palestinian Prisoners from Jerusalem The report documented deteriorating conditions among Palestinian prisoners, including the continued spread of scabies in Ofer Prison and complaints regarding inadequate medical care. The month also witnessed the release of Jerusalemite parliamentarian Mohammad Abu Teir following six months of administrative detention, while journalist Bayan Al-Jaaba continued to face prosecution, with Israeli authorities seeking a prison sentence of 24 months. According to the documented figures, the number of Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli prisons exceeded 9,400 detainees by early May 2026, including: 87 women prisoners 360 child detainees 3,376 administrative detainees 1,283 detainees classified as “unlawful combatants”.

Since October 7, 2023, the consequences of the war in the Gaza Strip have extended far beyond the battlefield and the humanitarian catastrophe. They have also reached the arena of international justice, transforming Gaza into the focus of one of the most significant and closely watched investigations in the history of the International Criminal Court (ICC). Over the months that followed, the legal file witnessed a series of major developments, beginning with the reaffirmation of the Court’s jurisdiction over the Palestinian territories, continuing through evidence-gathering and witness testimonies, and culminating in arrest warrant requests and judicial decisions that placed prominent political and military figures under international scrutiny. This report aims to document the key legal milestones related to Gaza before the International Criminal Court, considering them an integral part of the historical record of the war and its consequences. Legal Background The International Criminal Court’s jurisdiction over the Palestinian territories is based on the State of Palestine’s accession to the Rome Statute in 2015. In 2021, the Court announced the opening of a formal investigation into alleged crimes committed in the Palestinian territories. This investigation later became the legal framework through which the Court examined developments following October 7, 2023. October 7: The Beginning of a New Phase The events of October 7 marked a turning point in the trajectory of international investigations. As the war escalated and resulted in large numbers of civilian casualties, hostage-taking, mass displacement, and widespread destruction, calls intensified for comprehensive investigations into all alleged violations committed during the conflict. The Prosecutor’s Engagement During the early months of the war, ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan reiterated that the Court’s investigation concerning Palestine remained active and ongoing. He emphasized that international humanitarian law applies equally to all parties involved in the conflict. Statements from the Office of the Prosecutor stressed that attacks against civilians, hostage-taking, obstruction of humanitarian assistance, and disproportionate attacks against civilian populations could fall within the Court’s jurisdiction if the legal elements of such crimes were established. Requests for Arrest Warrants In May 2024, the case entered an unprecedented stage when the Prosecutor submitted applications for arrest warrants against Israeli officials and Hamas leaders, alleging responsibility for crimes that may constitute war crimes and crimes against humanity under the Rome Statute. The move represented one of the most consequential and controversial legal actions undertaken by the Court in recent years, given the political sensitivity of the parties involved and the international attention surrounding the conflict. Arrest Warrants Issued In November 2024, the Court issued arrest warrants for Benjamin Netanyahu and Yoav Gallant in connection with allegations involving war crimes and crimes against humanity. Although arrest warrants do not constitute convictions, the decision marked a significant legal and political milestone in the history of the Gaza war and in the broader development of international criminal justice. The Prisoners and Detainees File The issue of Palestinian prisoners and detainees emerged as one of the most prominent human rights concerns associated with the conflict, particularly regarding detainees from the Gaza Strip, their conditions of detention, and whether aspects of their treatment may fall within the Court’s investigative mandate. Human rights organizations have repeatedly called for transparency regarding detainees’ whereabouts and treatment, as well as guarantees of their legal rights in accordance with international humanitarian law and the Geneva Conventions. Historical Significance The legal developments related to Gaza represent a major shift in the trajectory of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict. Certain aspects of the war have moved beyond the realms of political debate and media coverage into the domain of international legal accountability. Regardless of the eventual outcomes of judicial proceedings, the documents, decisions, testimonies, and investigations generated by the International Criminal Court since October 7, 2023, have become part of the historical record of the war and an enduring component of Gaza’s legal and political memory. Timeline October 7, 2023: Outbreak of the war. October–December 2023: Initial documentation efforts and evidence collection. 2024: Intensification of ICC investigations. May 2024: Requests for arrest warrants submitted by the Prosecutor. November 2024: Arrest warrants issued for Benjamin Netanyahu and Yoav Gallant. 2025–2026: Continued investigations and monitoring of war-related cases..

Ramallah – The latest data released by Palestinian prisoners' institutions indicate that at least 1,251 Palestinians from the Gaza Strip remain in Israeli custody under the classification of “Unlawful Combatants,” while human rights organizations maintain that the actual number of Gazan detainees could be significantly higher due to the absence of comprehensive official data on all individuals held in Israeli military detention facilities. These figures come amid the ongoing war in the Gaza Strip and the large-scale arrest campaigns that have affected thousands of Palestinians since October 2023. The issue of detainees from Gaza has emerged as one of the most complex and least transparent files in the Palestinian context. According to the available data, the figure of 1,251 represents only those detainees who are officially classified under the “Unlawful Combatant” category. This legal designation allows authorities to detain individuals for extended periods without filing conventional criminal charges or conducting ordinary judicial proceedings. However, Palestinian prisoners' institutions emphasize that this figure does not represent the total number of Gazans currently in Israeli custody. The published statistics do not include all Palestinians held in military camps and detention facilities operated by the Israeli army, making it extremely difficult to determine a final and accurate figure at this stage. Experts on prisoners' affairs note that confusion between the publicly announced figure and the total number of Gazan detainees is among the most common misconceptions in media coverage of the issue. While some assume that the total number of Gaza prisoners is limited to 1,251, the reality is that this figure reflects only a portion of the overall picture, while additional detainees remain outside publicly available statistics due to the nature of their detention locations and restrictions on access to information. Human rights organizations warn that the continued lack of transparency regarding the number and conditions of Gazan detainees raises growing concerns about the fate of hundreds of Palestinians who were arrested during military operations in the Strip, particularly given the limited access to legal representation and independent monitoring during extended periods of the conflict. Rights advocates and international organizations have called for the disclosure of the actual number of Gazan detainees, clarification of their places of detention, and the provision of legal safeguards consistent with international law and conventions governing the treatment of detainees during armed conflicts. While the total number of Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli prisons exceeds 9,600, the file of Gaza detainees remains one of the most complicated from both statistical and human rights perspectives, with persistent questions surrounding the true number of detainees who have not been included in publicly available official figures. Key Figures 1,251 Gazans are officially classified as “Unlawful Combatants.” More than 9,600 Palestinian prisoners are currently held in Israeli prisons. The published figure does not include all Gazans held in Israeli military detention facilities. There is currently no verified final figure for the total number of Gazans in Israeli custody. Human rights organizations continue to call for transparency regarding detainee numbers, detention locations, and legal protections..