03 Jul 2020 | 08:58 PM UTC
Israel/Palestinian Terr.: Clashes reported between Israeli security forces and protesters on July 3
Clashes reported throughout the West Bank between Israeli security forces and protesters on July 3; further protests likely in the near term
Event
On Friday, July 3, clashes were reported throughout the West Bank between Israeli security forces and Palestinian protesters. Media reports indicate that the clashes left at least 15 protesters injured in Kafr Qaddum, east of Qalqilya, and six injured in Asira ash-Shamaliya, north of Nablus, as Israeli security forces used rubber-coated bullets and teargas to disperse the crowds. The demonstrations were being held against Israel's planned annexation of parts of the West Bank, expected to take place before the end of July. Further clashes were reported in Abu Dis on Friday evening, with 23 Palestinians injured, including one by live ammunition. The cause for the clashes in Abu Dis remains unclear.
Further protests are to be expected in the West Bank and throughout Israel in the near to medium-term.
Context
US President Donald Trump revealed his peace plan for Israel and Palestine in January 2020, which effectively gave Israel the green light to annex Jewish settlements and the Jordan Valley. The newly elected Israeli government has promised to capitalize on the plan and annex parts of the West Bank in the near future, with a limited initial annexation having initially been expected to take place by July 1. While the annexation has been postponed, it is expected to go-ahead by the end of July. Palestinians and members of the international community have criticized the annexation plans and even the US has warned Israel to slow down on its annexation plans. Frequent protests have been held across Palestine since the plan was unveiled, and attacks against Israeli targets have frequently occurred.
Advice
Individuals in Israel and the Palestinian Territories are advised to monitor developments to the situation and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities and their home governments.
Some Western governments advise their citizens against all travel to the West Bank, the Gaza Strip, and areas near the Israeli-Lebanese, Israeli-Syrian, and Israeli-Egyptian borders.
