PT, Israel: Palestinian groups call for protests in Gaza, Aug. 25; security heightened along shared border

Event

Palestinian factions in Gaza have called for protests along the shared Israeli border near Khan Yunis from 17:00 Aug. 25. The protest has likely been called in response to violence at a similar protest held along the shared border on Aug. 21. Additional, unannounced protests could materialize at other locations and times along Gaza's shared border with Israel.

Israeli security forces have reportedly bolstered security along the shared border in anticipation of unrest. Confrontations between Israeli border security forces and protesters along the shared border are likely. Any casualties or significant escalation could prompt a cycle of violence, including Palestinian rocket fire into southern Israel and Israeli military response, as well as possible solidarity protests in Jerusalem, particularly near the Old City, in areas of Israel with large Arab populations, and in the West Bank.

Disruptions to ground movement are likely near all protest areas and security force concentrations.

Context

Tensions along the shared border between Gaza and Israel remain heightened. On Aug. 21, protests and subsequent clashes resulted in the death of one protester and the wounding of over 40 others. An Israeli soldier was also critically injured by gunfire, which prompted retaliatory Israeli airstrikes against Hamas weapons storage and manufacturing sites.

Advice

Avoid all protests and concentrations of security personnel. Liaise with trusted contacts and monitor developments closely. Consider deferring nonessential travel near the shared Israel Gaza border.