Israel/Palestinian Territories: Several injured as Palestinians commemorate Nakba Day May 15 /update 1

Event

Israeli security forces responded as Palestinians in Bethlehem held a march to commemorate Nakba Day ("Day of Catastrophe") on May 15 marking the creation of the state of Israel 69 years ago and subsequent wars, which led to the displacement of millions of Palestinians. At least three people were hospitalized as Israeli forces attempted to disperse the Nakba march in Bethlehem by firing tear gas at protesters. In Beit El near Ramallah, at least seven demonstrators were reported to have been injured from tear gas or rubber bullets fired by Israeli forces, when demonstrators clashed with Israeli soldiers, throwing stones at a military checkpoint.

Further clashes are very likely across the territory, especially in Ramallah and Beit El.

Context

Numerous events including protests and commemorative marches are planned on May 15 as Israelis celebrate Independence Day and Palestinians commemorate Nakba Day. The tense situation between Israelis and Palestinians increases the chance of clashes between protesters and security forces.  

Longstanding political and social tensions between Israelis and Palestinians contribute to frequent security incidents of varying severity. Israel claims that these incidents are largely the result of the Palestinian Authority (PA) fueling social unrest with calls to protest, whereas Palestinians criticize what they describe as an illegal occupation by the Israeli population. Tensions have been mounting since a December UNSC resolution condemned Israeli settlements in the Occupied Territories as illegal; meanwhile, Israel continues to regularly demolish homes owned by Palestinians.

Advice

Individuals in Israel and the Palestinian Territories should avoid all forms of demonstrations, protests, and gatherings due to the risk of violence.

On a separate note, due to the prevailing threat of terrorism, individuals throughout Israel should report any suspicious objects or behavior to the authorities and always be on guard when visiting sites deemed particularly vulnerable to an attack (public transportation, train stations, ports, airports, public or government buildings, embassies or consulates, international organizations, schools and universities, religious sites, markets, hotels and restaurants frequented by foreigners/Westerners, festivals, etc.).