April 30, 2007:
Palestinian terrorists fire an anti-tank missile at an IDF position south of the Kissufim Crossing (Gaza Strip border).
(YeshaNews [Translated from Hebrew], April 30, 2007).
Palestinian terrorists fire an anti-tank missile at an IDF position south of the Kissufim Crossing (Gaza Strip border).
(YeshaNews [Translated from Hebrew], April 30, 2007).
April 30, 2007:
"A large-scale IAF training exercise is taking place across the country. The exercise will finish on Tuesday, May 1st 2007. During the exercise, IAF aircraft will be seen flying low, aircraft noise and warning sirens will be heard and large numbers of rescue vehicles will be seen on the roads near IDF bases."
("Large Scale Air Force Exercise - Low Flying Planes, Aircraft Noise and Warning Sirens," IDF Spokesperson's Office, April 30, 2007).
"A large-scale IAF training exercise is taking place across the country. The exercise will finish on Tuesday, May 1st 2007. During the exercise, IAF aircraft will be seen flying low, aircraft noise and warning sirens will be heard and large numbers of rescue vehicles will be seen on the roads near IDF bases."
("Large Scale Air Force Exercise - Low Flying Planes, Aircraft Noise and Warning Sirens," IDF Spokesperson's Office, April 30, 2007).
April 30, 2007:
- IDF sappers detonate an IED found during a security patrol in the West Bank city of Nablus.
- IDF forces arrest 17 wanted Palestinian throughout the West Bank.
("Fatah Militants Launch 'Summer Storm' Campaign and Urge All Factions to Prepare Martyrs," Ma'an News, April 29, 2007).
- IDF sappers detonate an IED found during a security patrol in the West Bank city of Nablus.
- IDF forces arrest 17 wanted Palestinian throughout the West Bank.
("Fatah Militants Launch 'Summer Storm' Campaign and Urge All Factions to Prepare Martyrs," Ma'an News, April 29, 2007).
April 30, 2007:
The group of the Martyr Ayman Jouda (FATAH) launches "Operation Summer Storm" in the West Bank and Gaza Strip.
The operation is slated to include guerrilla attacks and rocket strikes against Israeli cities.
"The new slogan for our battle with the Israeli enemy at this stage will be the campaign of the Summer Storm; to confront Israeli arrogance, assassinations and violations, and to protect our people. We urge the other factions to prepare the martyrs to confront the expected attack on the Strip by the Zionist enemy...To hit the Zionist enemy, intensify martyrdom operations and burn [the Israeli towns of] Ashkelon and Sderot."
("Fatah Militants Launch 'Summer Storm' Campaign and Urge All Factions to Prepare Martyrs," Ma'an News, April 29, 2007).
The group of the Martyr Ayman Jouda (FATAH) launches "Operation Summer Storm" in the West Bank and Gaza Strip.
The operation is slated to include guerrilla attacks and rocket strikes against Israeli cities.
"The new slogan for our battle with the Israeli enemy at this stage will be the campaign of the Summer Storm; to confront Israeli arrogance, assassinations and violations, and to protect our people. We urge the other factions to prepare the martyrs to confront the expected attack on the Strip by the Zionist enemy...To hit the Zionist enemy, intensify martyrdom operations and burn [the Israeli towns of] Ashkelon and Sderot."
("Fatah Militants Launch 'Summer Storm' Campaign and Urge All Factions to Prepare Martyrs," Ma'an News, April 29, 2007).
April 30, 2007:
A 100-day PA security plan has failed, as security commanders refuse to move against crime families and kidnappers.
"Some of the security commanders are Mafia bosses who don't want to see an end to the anarchy..."
The PA Presidential Guard has also failed to secure the Egypt-Gaza border.
"PG commanders are very hesitant in stopping Palestinians, particularly those from the Fatah faction...They often look the other way."
("PA Security Plan Said to Have Failed," Middle East Newsline, April 29, 2007; "Abbas Forces Fail to Secure Egypt-Gaza Border," Middle East Newsline, April 30, 2007).
A 100-day PA security plan has failed, as security commanders refuse to move against crime families and kidnappers.
"Some of the security commanders are Mafia bosses who don't want to see an end to the anarchy..."
The PA Presidential Guard has also failed to secure the Egypt-Gaza border.
"PG commanders are very hesitant in stopping Palestinians, particularly those from the Fatah faction...They often look the other way."
("PA Security Plan Said to Have Failed," Middle East Newsline, April 29, 2007; "Abbas Forces Fail to Secure Egypt-Gaza Border," Middle East Newsline, April 30, 2007).
April 29, 2007:
IDF Chief of Staff Gabi Ashkenazi warns that Israel will have to "take action" and notes that a major ground operation in the Gaza Strip would be necessary to effectively halt rocket attacks. According to Ashkenazi, artillery and helicopter fire can reduce the attacks -- but cannot stop it completely.
("IDF Chief: Ground Offensive Only Way to Halt Qassam Rocket Fire," Ha'aretz, April 29, 2007; "IDF Chief: Gaza Incursion Inevitable," Jerusalem Post, April 29, 2007).
IDF Chief of Staff Gabi Ashkenazi warns that Israel will have to "take action" and notes that a major ground operation in the Gaza Strip would be necessary to effectively halt rocket attacks. According to Ashkenazi, artillery and helicopter fire can reduce the attacks -- but cannot stop it completely.
("IDF Chief: Ground Offensive Only Way to Halt Qassam Rocket Fire," Ha'aretz, April 29, 2007; "IDF Chief: Gaza Incursion Inevitable," Jerusalem Post, April 29, 2007).
April 29, 2007:
Palestinian terrorists fire a Qassam rocket that impacts near a beach in Ashkelon.
(Shmulik Hadad, "Qassam Lands in Mediterranean Next to Ashkelon Beach," YnetNews, April 29, 2007).
Palestinian terrorists fire a Qassam rocket that impacts near a beach in Ashkelon.
(Shmulik Hadad, "Qassam Lands in Mediterranean Next to Ashkelon Beach," YnetNews, April 29, 2007).
April 29, 2007:
PRC Spokesperson Abu Abir: "We are waiting to meet the enemy in Gaza so that we can kidnap more soldiers. If the enemy comes into Gaza, he should be afraid, his Merkava tanks will turn to rubble."
("Hamas Welcomes Gaza op. as Chance to Nab More Troops," Jerusalem Post, April 29, 2007).
PRC Spokesperson Abu Abir: "We are waiting to meet the enemy in Gaza so that we can kidnap more soldiers. If the enemy comes into Gaza, he should be afraid, his Merkava tanks will turn to rubble."
("Hamas Welcomes Gaza op. as Chance to Nab More Troops," Jerusalem Post, April 29, 2007).
April 28, 2007:
- IDF forces (Golani Battlion, Rotem Brigade) kill three Palestinian terrorists attempting to place an IED along the Gaza Strip security fence.
- A Popular Resistance Committees (PRC) terrorist dies when an explosive device is detonated in Gaza.
(Avi Issacharoff and Amos Harel, "IDF Kills 3 Palestinians Trying to Place Explosives Near Gaza Fence," Ha'aretz, April 28, 2007).
- IDF forces (Golani Battlion, Rotem Brigade) kill three Palestinian terrorists attempting to place an IED along the Gaza Strip security fence.
- A Popular Resistance Committees (PRC) terrorist dies when an explosive device is detonated in Gaza.
(Avi Issacharoff and Amos Harel, "IDF Kills 3 Palestinians Trying to Place Explosives Near Gaza Fence," Ha'aretz, April 28, 2007).
April 27, 2007:
A Palestinian security officer is killed during an exchange of fire between Palestinian Presidential Guard (FATAH) officers and Gaza residents at the Rafah border crossing between the Gaza Strip and Egypt.
Three others, including a civilian, are wounded in the incident.
(Avi Issacharoff, "Palestinian Security Officer Killed in Rafah Border Crossing Clash," Ha'aretz, April 27, 2007).
A Palestinian security officer is killed during an exchange of fire between Palestinian Presidential Guard (FATAH) officers and Gaza residents at the Rafah border crossing between the Gaza Strip and Egypt.
Three others, including a civilian, are wounded in the incident.
(Avi Issacharoff, "Palestinian Security Officer Killed in Rafah Border Crossing Clash," Ha'aretz, April 27, 2007).
April 27, 2007:
Khalil Abu Lailah, a senior Hamas official in the Gaza Strip:
"Hamas's decision to kidnap Israeli soldiers is not just a threat...For us, this is a strategic issue aimed at securing the release of all our prisoners from Israeli jails. Hamas has made it very clear that it will continue to kidnap Israeli soldiers until our prisoners are freed. By keeping our people in Israeli jails, Israel will lose more soldiers."
(Khaled Abu Toameh, "Hamas Plans to Kidnap More Soldiers," Jerusalem Post, April 26, 2007).
Khalil Abu Lailah, a senior Hamas official in the Gaza Strip:
"Hamas's decision to kidnap Israeli soldiers is not just a threat...For us, this is a strategic issue aimed at securing the release of all our prisoners from Israeli jails. Hamas has made it very clear that it will continue to kidnap Israeli soldiers until our prisoners are freed. By keeping our people in Israeli jails, Israel will lose more soldiers."
(Khaled Abu Toameh, "Hamas Plans to Kidnap More Soldiers," Jerusalem Post, April 26, 2007).
April 26, 2007:
EU Aid Commissioner Louis Michel tells reporters that aid will bypass the PA unity government until it recognizes Israel, renounces violence and abides by interim peace deals.
"As long as these criteria are not fulfilled, there will not be a change in the system, the manner, the process of aid support from the European Union."
("EU Official: Aid to Palestinians Will Bypass Unity Government," Reuters, April 26, 2007).
EU Aid Commissioner Louis Michel tells reporters that aid will bypass the PA unity government until it recognizes Israel, renounces violence and abides by interim peace deals.
"As long as these criteria are not fulfilled, there will not be a change in the system, the manner, the process of aid support from the European Union."
("EU Official: Aid to Palestinians Will Bypass Unity Government," Reuters, April 26, 2007).
April 26, 2007:
Ezzedeen Al-Qassam Brigades spokesperson Abu Obiada notes that Hamas is capable of firing 100 rockets per hour.
"The attack on Gaza Strip will not be a picnic but the forces will pay the bill of attacking the Strip...The Zionist Enemy decision to attack parts of the Gaza Strip will be a repeated mistake and it will definitely a failure to Zionist scale in the Strip."
("Abu Obiada: Al-Qassam Can Fire 100 Rockets in One Hour and the OF Will Repeat its Mistake when Attacking the Gaza Strip," Ezzedeen Al-Qassam Brigades (Hamas) Website, April 26, 2007).
Ezzedeen Al-Qassam Brigades spokesperson Abu Obiada notes that Hamas is capable of firing 100 rockets per hour.
"The attack on Gaza Strip will not be a picnic but the forces will pay the bill of attacking the Strip...The Zionist Enemy decision to attack parts of the Gaza Strip will be a repeated mistake and it will definitely a failure to Zionist scale in the Strip."
("Abu Obiada: Al-Qassam Can Fire 100 Rockets in One Hour and the OF Will Repeat its Mistake when Attacking the Gaza Strip," Ezzedeen Al-Qassam Brigades (Hamas) Website, April 26, 2007).
April 26, 2007:
A spokesman for the Ezzedeen Al-Qassam Brigades (HAMAS): "The Zionist enemy should understand that any thought of raiding the Gaza Strip will open the gates of hell and hundreds of rockets will be launched against [the southern Israeli towns] Sderot and Ashkelon and beyond."
The spokesman also threatens to down IAF planes and helicopters flying over the Gaza Strip.
("Palestinians: We'll Fire Rockets if IDF Continues West Bank Raids," Ha'aretz, April 26, 2007).
A spokesman for the Ezzedeen Al-Qassam Brigades (HAMAS): "The Zionist enemy should understand that any thought of raiding the Gaza Strip will open the gates of hell and hundreds of rockets will be launched against [the southern Israeli towns] Sderot and Ashkelon and beyond."
The spokesman also threatens to down IAF planes and helicopters flying over the Gaza Strip.
("Palestinians: We'll Fire Rockets if IDF Continues West Bank Raids," Ha'aretz, April 26, 2007).
April 26, 2007:
- Palestinian terrorists fire a Qassam rocket that impacts near Ashkelon.
- IDF sappers detonate a Palestinian IED in a controlled explosion (Nablus).
- IDF sappers in Jenin detonate a Palestinian IED in a controlled explosion.
("Kassam Attack Near Ashkelon," IsraelNationalNews, April 26, 2007; "Qassam Fired from Gaza Despite Truce Declaration," Reuters, April 26, 2007; YeshaNews [Translated from Hebrew], April 26, 2007).
- Palestinian terrorists fire a Qassam rocket that impacts near Ashkelon.
- IDF sappers detonate a Palestinian IED in a controlled explosion (Nablus).
- IDF sappers in Jenin detonate a Palestinian IED in a controlled explosion.
("Kassam Attack Near Ashkelon," IsraelNationalNews, April 26, 2007; "Qassam Fired from Gaza Despite Truce Declaration," Reuters, April 26, 2007; YeshaNews [Translated from Hebrew], April 26, 2007).
April 25, 2007:
- Palestinian terrorists hurl an explosive device at IDF forces operating in Nablus. Two soldiers are lightly wounded.
- IDF forces arrest four Tanzim terrorists (FATAH) driving in the West Bank. Two pistols and two improvised rifles are seized.
(YeshaNews [Translated from Hebrew], April 25, 2007).
- Palestinian terrorists hurl an explosive device at IDF forces operating in Nablus. Two soldiers are lightly wounded.
- IDF forces arrest four Tanzim terrorists (FATAH) driving in the West Bank. Two pistols and two improvised rifles are seized.
(YeshaNews [Translated from Hebrew], April 25, 2007).
April 25, 2007:
- Continuation of static Palestinian LIC, minor fluctuations (Probability: High)
- Gaza: Military prep, increased fortification, mine laying (High)
- Gaza & West Bank: Increased smuggling (High)
- Indigenous missiles, IEDs, EFPs: Increased accuracy & yield (High)
- Kidnapping threat level (High)
- Continued erosion of Israeli deterence (High)
- Terrorist confidence level (High)
- Counterweight: US/Israel - Fatah, training & armaments (High)
- Counterweight: Iran, Syria - Hamas, training & armaments (High)
- Fatah-Hamas (+ clan) confrontation, moderate-heavy, Gaza Strip (High)
- Fatah-Hamas confrontation, light-moderate, West Bank (High)
- Balance of Power: Military supremacy, static: West Bank - Fatah (High)
- Balance of Power: Military supremacy, static: Gaza - Hamas (High)
- Shiite (Iranian) thrust - continued Saudi (Sunni) unease (High)
- West Bank: IDF "pinpoint" arrest operations, security sweeps (High)
- Northern border, light (High)
- Al Qaeda, global Jihad infiltration (High)
- Syrian provocation, long term (Moderate)
- European Union: Continued strategic reassessment (Moderate)
- Northern border, heavy (Moderate)
- Gaza: IDF offensive, heavy: [multiple-casualty event] reactionary (Moderate)
- Gaza: IDF offensive, heavy: pre-emptive (Low)
- West Bank: IDF offensive, heavy: pre-emptive (Low)
- Overt Egyptian military offensive, heavy (Low)
April 25, 2007:
The erosion of Israeli deterrence was illustrated by the brazen shelling of multiple communities on Independence Day.
Hamas correctly anticipated that any military response would be limited in both scope and time. According to IDF Lt. Col. (res.) Jonathan D. Halevi, the terrorist organization perceives the Jewish state as strategically weak due to the second Lebanon War and the current leadership crisis.
(Jonathan D. Halevi, "Independence Day & the Qassam," JCPA Strategic Blog [Translated from Hebrew], April 24, 2007).
The erosion of Israeli deterrence was illustrated by the brazen shelling of multiple communities on Independence Day.
Hamas correctly anticipated that any military response would be limited in both scope and time. According to IDF Lt. Col. (res.) Jonathan D. Halevi, the terrorist organization perceives the Jewish state as strategically weak due to the second Lebanon War and the current leadership crisis.
(Jonathan D. Halevi, "Independence Day & the Qassam," JCPA Strategic Blog [Translated from Hebrew], April 24, 2007).
April 24, 2007:
Hamas terrorists fire a barrage of Qassam rockets and mortars (28 rockets and 61 mortars) at Israel from the northern Gaza Strip.
The IAF deploys helicopters to destroy enemy rocket-launching pads in Gaza.
IDF Spokesperson's Office Statement:
"A large number of Qassam rockets and mortar shells were launched from all along the Gaza Strip into Israel since dawn today.
According to security assessments, the Hamas terrorist organization attempted to execute yet another terrorist attack by means of a large-scale operation. IDF forces operated in an immediate and determined manner, thus thwarting the planned terrorist attack.
The IDF will continue to operate in the area, monitor the developments and provide a security response to every threat.
Hamas has continued to plan terrorist attacks against the citizens of Israel, cynically using the cease fire."
(Ali Waked, "Hamas Fires Rockets at Israel," YnetNews, April 24, 2007; "Attempted Hamas Terrorist Attack Thwarted in the Gaza Strip," IDF Spokesperson's Office, April 24, 2007).
Hamas terrorists fire a barrage of Qassam rockets and mortars (28 rockets and 61 mortars) at Israel from the northern Gaza Strip.
The IAF deploys helicopters to destroy enemy rocket-launching pads in Gaza.
IDF Spokesperson's Office Statement:
"A large number of Qassam rockets and mortar shells were launched from all along the Gaza Strip into Israel since dawn today.
According to security assessments, the Hamas terrorist organization attempted to execute yet another terrorist attack by means of a large-scale operation. IDF forces operated in an immediate and determined manner, thus thwarting the planned terrorist attack.
The IDF will continue to operate in the area, monitor the developments and provide a security response to every threat.
Hamas has continued to plan terrorist attacks against the citizens of Israel, cynically using the cease fire."
(Ali Waked, "Hamas Fires Rockets at Israel," YnetNews, April 24, 2007; "Attempted Hamas Terrorist Attack Thwarted in the Gaza Strip," IDF Spokesperson's Office, April 24, 2007).
April 24, 2007:
- IDF sappers detonate a 20kg IED found during a patrol in the Palestinian village of Batzrah, west of Nablus.
- Palestinian terrorists fire at IDF forces in Kabatyah, south of Jenin.
- Palestinian terrorists in El Birah fire at an IDF position east of Ramallah.
(YeshaNews [Translated from Hebrew], April 24, 2007).
- IDF sappers detonate a 20kg IED found during a patrol in the Palestinian village of Batzrah, west of Nablus.
- Palestinian terrorists fire at IDF forces in Kabatyah, south of Jenin.
- Palestinian terrorists in El Birah fire at an IDF position east of Ramallah.
(YeshaNews [Translated from Hebrew], April 24, 2007).
April 24, 2007:
- A 12-year-old Palestinian boy is caught in a crossfire between two feuding clans (northern Gaza Strip).
- Terrorists shoot a pharmacist and his son in central Gaza.
- Two Palestinians are injured during fighting that erupts after a soccer match in Gaza City.
- Three Palestinians are wounded in an explosion at the home of a Hamas terrorist (near Gaza beach). The incident was apparently triggered by the handling of explosives inside the residence.
- Dozens of Palestinians storm the Palestinian Legislative Council (PLC) building in Gaza City, carrying the corpse of a Palestinian youth (Hasan Abu Sharikh) killed by unidentified gunmen after being abducted in the northern Gaza Strip.
- The 'Army of Islam' claims responsibility for the killing of Hasan Abu Sharikh in Jabalia refugee camp and notes that it was an accident.
"The man was not meant to be killed. It was an error and we pledge before God and the family of Abu Sharikh that we will bear complete responsibility and repercussions."
("12-Year-Old Killed After Caught in Crossfire of Gaza Family Feud," Ha'aretz, April 24, 2007; "Family of Murdered Boy Breaks into PLC Buildings Armed and Shooting," Ma'an News, April 24, 2007).
- A 12-year-old Palestinian boy is caught in a crossfire between two feuding clans (northern Gaza Strip).
- Terrorists shoot a pharmacist and his son in central Gaza.
- Two Palestinians are injured during fighting that erupts after a soccer match in Gaza City.
- Three Palestinians are wounded in an explosion at the home of a Hamas terrorist (near Gaza beach). The incident was apparently triggered by the handling of explosives inside the residence.
- Dozens of Palestinians storm the Palestinian Legislative Council (PLC) building in Gaza City, carrying the corpse of a Palestinian youth (Hasan Abu Sharikh) killed by unidentified gunmen after being abducted in the northern Gaza Strip.
- The 'Army of Islam' claims responsibility for the killing of Hasan Abu Sharikh in Jabalia refugee camp and notes that it was an accident.
"The man was not meant to be killed. It was an error and we pledge before God and the family of Abu Sharikh that we will bear complete responsibility and repercussions."
("12-Year-Old Killed After Caught in Crossfire of Gaza Family Feud," Ha'aretz, April 24, 2007; "Family of Murdered Boy Breaks into PLC Buildings Armed and Shooting," Ma'an News, April 24, 2007).
April 23, 2007:
Palestinian security sources inform Maan News that IDF armored vehicles are patrolling the northern Gaza Strip border, near the city of Beit Hanoun.
("Israeli Forces Patrol Northern Gaza and Threaten Invasion Within 48 Hours," Maan News, April 23, 2007; Ariel Shmaideberg, "Palestinians: IDF Preparing to Invade Gaza Strip," NFC, [Translated from Hebrew], April 23, 2007).
Palestinian security sources inform Maan News that IDF armored vehicles are patrolling the northern Gaza Strip border, near the city of Beit Hanoun.
("Israeli Forces Patrol Northern Gaza and Threaten Invasion Within 48 Hours," Maan News, April 23, 2007; Ariel Shmaideberg, "Palestinians: IDF Preparing to Invade Gaza Strip," NFC, [Translated from Hebrew], April 23, 2007).
April 22, 2007:
During an IDF arrest operation overnight in Nablus, Tanzim terrorist Amin Mahmoud Amin Lubadeh and Islamic Jihad terrorist Fahdel Muhammad Mahmoud Nur were killed in exchanges of fire with IDF forces during an attempt to arrest them.
-Wanted Tanzim terrorist Amin Lubadeh was the leading manufacturer of bombs and explosive belts in the Samaria region and was involved in numerous attacks and attempted attacks against Israelis inside Israel and in the Nablus area. Lubadeh's activity was funded by Iran through Hezbollah and by terror operatives in the Gaza Strip.
+ In June 2006, Lubadeh was involved in sending out a suicide bomber for an attack in Tel Aviv. The bomber was arrested on the eve of the intended attack.
+ In the same month, an arrested terrorist told investigators that Lubadeh had instructed him to abduct Israelis in the area of the Tapuah junction in order to negotiate the release of Palestinian prisoners.
+ In August 2006, a suicide bomber captured en route to a bombing in the Israeli community if Alon Moreh named Lubadeh as one of his dispatchers.
+ Also in August 2006, an arrested terror operative told Israeli investigators that Lubadeh was in possession of an explosive belt, bombs and large amounts of chemicals used in bomb construction.
+ In September 2006, an arrested terror operative told Israeli investigators that Lubadeh and others had instructed him to recruit a suicide bomber for an attack. He also stated that Lubadeh possessed an explosives laboratory in the old city of Nablus.
+ In November 2006, an arrested operative told investigators that he had on several occasions received bombs from Lubadeh in order to carry out attacks against IDF forces in the region, and assisted Lubadeh in constructing bombs in his lab.
+ In January 2007, two terrorists arrested with explosive belts by Israeli security forces told investigators that they had received the belts from Lubadeh in order to carry out suicide bombings.
The Tanzim terror infrastructure in the old city of Nablus has in the past few years been responsible for a number of murderous attacks. Recently, Lubadeh has continued to be involved in plans for bombings against civilians and for attacks against Israeli forces operating against terrorists in the Nablus area.
- Fahdel Nur, a wanted Islamic Jihad terrorist, was the assistant to Islamic Jihad commander Hani Awijan. Nur was considered to be Awijan's successor following his death in July 2006. He was involved in planning suicide bombings and recruiting bombers for attacks inside Israel. In the past few months Nur was closely involved with Amin Lubadeh in bomb construction efforts and other attack plans.
("Background Information: Leading Bomb Manufacturer and Additional Terrorist Killed in Nablus," IDF Spokesperson's Office, April 22, 2007).
During an IDF arrest operation overnight in Nablus, Tanzim terrorist Amin Mahmoud Amin Lubadeh and Islamic Jihad terrorist Fahdel Muhammad Mahmoud Nur were killed in exchanges of fire with IDF forces during an attempt to arrest them.
-Wanted Tanzim terrorist Amin Lubadeh was the leading manufacturer of bombs and explosive belts in the Samaria region and was involved in numerous attacks and attempted attacks against Israelis inside Israel and in the Nablus area. Lubadeh's activity was funded by Iran through Hezbollah and by terror operatives in the Gaza Strip.
+ In June 2006, Lubadeh was involved in sending out a suicide bomber for an attack in Tel Aviv. The bomber was arrested on the eve of the intended attack.
+ In the same month, an arrested terrorist told investigators that Lubadeh had instructed him to abduct Israelis in the area of the Tapuah junction in order to negotiate the release of Palestinian prisoners.
+ In August 2006, a suicide bomber captured en route to a bombing in the Israeli community if Alon Moreh named Lubadeh as one of his dispatchers.
+ Also in August 2006, an arrested terror operative told Israeli investigators that Lubadeh was in possession of an explosive belt, bombs and large amounts of chemicals used in bomb construction.
+ In September 2006, an arrested terror operative told Israeli investigators that Lubadeh and others had instructed him to recruit a suicide bomber for an attack. He also stated that Lubadeh possessed an explosives laboratory in the old city of Nablus.
+ In November 2006, an arrested operative told investigators that he had on several occasions received bombs from Lubadeh in order to carry out attacks against IDF forces in the region, and assisted Lubadeh in constructing bombs in his lab.
+ In January 2007, two terrorists arrested with explosive belts by Israeli security forces told investigators that they had received the belts from Lubadeh in order to carry out suicide bombings.
The Tanzim terror infrastructure in the old city of Nablus has in the past few years been responsible for a number of murderous attacks. Recently, Lubadeh has continued to be involved in plans for bombings against civilians and for attacks against Israeli forces operating against terrorists in the Nablus area.
- Fahdel Nur, a wanted Islamic Jihad terrorist, was the assistant to Islamic Jihad commander Hani Awijan. Nur was considered to be Awijan's successor following his death in July 2006. He was involved in planning suicide bombings and recruiting bombers for attacks inside Israel. In the past few months Nur was closely involved with Amin Lubadeh in bomb construction efforts and other attack plans.
("Background Information: Leading Bomb Manufacturer and Additional Terrorist Killed in Nablus," IDF Spokesperson's Office, April 22, 2007).
April 22, 2007:
An Israeli motorist is shot by a Palestinian terrorist at the Hizme Junction (northern Jerusalem).
(Efrat Weiss, "Man Injured by Shooting Near Jerusalem," YnetNews, April 22, 2007).
An Israeli motorist is shot by a Palestinian terrorist at the Hizme Junction (northern Jerusalem).
(Efrat Weiss, "Man Injured by Shooting Near Jerusalem," YnetNews, April 22, 2007).
April 21, 2007:
Palestinian terrorists fire four Qassam rockets at Israel. One of the rockets scores a direct hit on a house in Sderot, causing extensive damage.
Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ), the Popular Resistance Committees (PRC) and the Al Aksa Martyrs Brigades (FATAH) claims responsibility for the barrage.
("Palestinian Killed as IAF Fires Missile at Car in Northern Gaza," Jerusalem Post, April 21, 2007).
Palestinian terrorists fire four Qassam rockets at Israel. One of the rockets scores a direct hit on a house in Sderot, causing extensive damage.
Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ), the Popular Resistance Committees (PRC) and the Al Aksa Martyrs Brigades (FATAH) claims responsibility for the barrage.
("Palestinian Killed as IAF Fires Missile at Car in Northern Gaza," Jerusalem Post, April 21, 2007).
April 21, 2007:
Palestinian terrorists detonate three explosives at an international school in northern Gaza, damaging the building but causing no casualties.
Rebhi Salem, Director: "A large number of masked gunmen attacked the school at dawn. They poured petrol all around and blew up several explosive devices and destroyed some of the premises..."
According to Salem, the terrorists identified themselves as an Al Qaeda organization operating in Gaza.
("Gunmen Blow Up Part of American School in Northern Gaza Strip," Ha'aretz, April 21, 2007).
Palestinian terrorists detonate three explosives at an international school in northern Gaza, damaging the building but causing no casualties.
Rebhi Salem, Director: "A large number of masked gunmen attacked the school at dawn. They poured petrol all around and blew up several explosive devices and destroyed some of the premises..."
According to Salem, the terrorists identified themselves as an Al Qaeda organization operating in Gaza.
("Gunmen Blow Up Part of American School in Northern Gaza Strip," Ha'aretz, April 21, 2007).
April 21, 2007:
Undercover Border Police officers kill three Palestinian terrorists in Jenin.
The dead terrorists included two members of the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Brigades (FATAH) and an Islamic Jihad operative.
The IDF said a special unit operating in Jenin came under fire from the car. It said the troops returned fire, hitting the vehicle.
IDF Spokesperson's Office:
"Three Palestinian armed gunmen opened fire today at a special Border Police force, in the Jenin R.C.. The force returned fire, hitting and killing the three gunmen.
The three armed gunmen who were killed in the incident are:
Muhamad Hassin Sarhan, 20, a senior wanted Islamic Jihad terrorist, resident of the Jenin RC. Sarhan was involved in terrorist activity including shooting and bombing attacks against IDF soldiers.
Muhamad Damage, 20, Islamic Jihad wanted terror-operative, resident of the Jenin R.C., was in contact with senior Ilamic Jihad wanted terror-operatives in the city.
Ahmad Mahmud Issa, 24, a wanted Tanzim terror-operative, resident of the village of Sanur, south of Jenin."
(Zvika Gottlieb, Avi Issacharoff and Amos Harel, "Palestinians: IDF Kills 6 in Territories, Including Teenage Girl," Ha'aretz, April 21, 2007; "BACKGROUND INFORMATION: "3 Palestinian Gunmen Killed in Jenin," IDF Spokesperson's Office, April 21, 2007).
Undercover Border Police officers kill three Palestinian terrorists in Jenin.
The dead terrorists included two members of the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Brigades (FATAH) and an Islamic Jihad operative.
The IDF said a special unit operating in Jenin came under fire from the car. It said the troops returned fire, hitting the vehicle.
IDF Spokesperson's Office:
"Three Palestinian armed gunmen opened fire today at a special Border Police force, in the Jenin R.C.. The force returned fire, hitting and killing the three gunmen.
The three armed gunmen who were killed in the incident are:
Muhamad Hassin Sarhan, 20, a senior wanted Islamic Jihad terrorist, resident of the Jenin RC. Sarhan was involved in terrorist activity including shooting and bombing attacks against IDF soldiers.
Muhamad Damage, 20, Islamic Jihad wanted terror-operative, resident of the Jenin R.C., was in contact with senior Ilamic Jihad wanted terror-operatives in the city.
Ahmad Mahmud Issa, 24, a wanted Tanzim terror-operative, resident of the village of Sanur, south of Jenin."
(Zvika Gottlieb, Avi Issacharoff and Amos Harel, "Palestinians: IDF Kills 6 in Territories, Including Teenage Girl," Ha'aretz, April 21, 2007; "BACKGROUND INFORMATION: "3 Palestinian Gunmen Killed in Jenin," IDF Spokesperson's Office, April 21, 2007).
April 20, 2007:
Former PA (Hamas) foreign minister Mahmoud A-Zahar states that recognition of Israel contradicts the Koran. A-Zahar also notes that Hamas has not given up on the principle that all of Palestine is Muslim (Wakf) land.
In addition, A-Zahar claims that Fatah is building a new army and training operatives in various Arab countries.
("Zahar: Koran Forbids Recognizing Israel," Jerusalem Post, April 20, 2007).
Former PA (Hamas) foreign minister Mahmoud A-Zahar states that recognition of Israel contradicts the Koran. A-Zahar also notes that Hamas has not given up on the principle that all of Palestine is Muslim (Wakf) land.
In addition, A-Zahar claims that Fatah is building a new army and training operatives in various Arab countries.
("Zahar: Koran Forbids Recognizing Israel," Jerusalem Post, April 20, 2007).
April 20, 2007:
IDF Major General Yoav Galant, Head of the IDF Southern Command (PADAM), writes that "no one can detect a tunnel 20 meters under the ground."
However, Sean Osborne of The Northeast Intelligence Network notes that "EM Gradiometers can detect tunnels to a depth of 150 feet (45.72 meters)."
The EM Gradiometer concept was developed for the US Army Fort Belvoir Research, Development, and Engineering (RD&E) activities in support of the Korean DMZ tunnel detection campaign in the late 1980s.
* More on EM Gradiometers here.
* More on Palestinian weapons smuggling tunnels here.
IDF Major General Yoav Galant, Head of the IDF Southern Command (PADAM), writes that "no one can detect a tunnel 20 meters under the ground."
However, Sean Osborne of The Northeast Intelligence Network notes that "EM Gradiometers can detect tunnels to a depth of 150 feet (45.72 meters)."
The EM Gradiometer concept was developed for the US Army Fort Belvoir Research, Development, and Engineering (RD&E) activities in support of the Korean DMZ tunnel detection campaign in the late 1980s.
* More on EM Gradiometers here.
* More on Palestinian weapons smuggling tunnels here.
April 20, 2007:
NATO will fund an interdisciplinary research project by the Technion (Israel Institute of Technology) on protecting water supplies against biological and chemical terrorism.
The research will integrate mathematical models for the positioning of monitoring stations and technological innovations for identifying and neutralizing chemical and biological contaminants. The project, due to be completed by the end of 2008, has a budget of €300,000.
Prof. Israel Schechter of the Faculty of Chemistry: "After Al Qaeda documents and plans were discovered in Afghanistan, the FBI warned that the organization was planning to attack water sources. It turns out that water dispersal systems in the US, Israel, and other developed countries in the world are completely exposed. They are outdoors, with no guards. The systems are large and numerous, and guards cannot be placed at all of them. An expert panel examined the issue and gave its recommendations to Congress, which allocated $608 million to solve the problem...
"A huge quantity of poison is needed to poison the water supply...I tried to think like a terrorist and discovered a way to place a handful of a certain poison into water sources that could kill large numbers of people, despite the dilution factor. That’s why I started to develop a device that can detect chemical poisons in water and neutralize them."
Prof. Yechezkel Kashi of the Faculty of Biotechnology Food Engineering: "We’ve basically established an ID card for specific bacteria. We’re now developing a scanner that will be able to quickly and accurately detect specific bacteria. We’re collaborating with Prof. David Walt of Tufts University on this project."
(Amnon Barzilai, "NATO to Finance Technion Water Terrorism Research," Globes, April 19, 2007).
NATO will fund an interdisciplinary research project by the Technion (Israel Institute of Technology) on protecting water supplies against biological and chemical terrorism.
The research will integrate mathematical models for the positioning of monitoring stations and technological innovations for identifying and neutralizing chemical and biological contaminants. The project, due to be completed by the end of 2008, has a budget of €300,000.
Prof. Israel Schechter of the Faculty of Chemistry: "After Al Qaeda documents and plans were discovered in Afghanistan, the FBI warned that the organization was planning to attack water sources. It turns out that water dispersal systems in the US, Israel, and other developed countries in the world are completely exposed. They are outdoors, with no guards. The systems are large and numerous, and guards cannot be placed at all of them. An expert panel examined the issue and gave its recommendations to Congress, which allocated $608 million to solve the problem...
"A huge quantity of poison is needed to poison the water supply...I tried to think like a terrorist and discovered a way to place a handful of a certain poison into water sources that could kill large numbers of people, despite the dilution factor. That’s why I started to develop a device that can detect chemical poisons in water and neutralize them."
Prof. Yechezkel Kashi of the Faculty of Biotechnology Food Engineering: "We’ve basically established an ID card for specific bacteria. We’re now developing a scanner that will be able to quickly and accurately detect specific bacteria. We’re collaborating with Prof. David Walt of Tufts University on this project."
(Amnon Barzilai, "NATO to Finance Technion Water Terrorism Research," Globes, April 19, 2007).
April 19, 2007:
IDF forces stationed at a checkpoint near Gush Etzion (West Bank) intercept a shipment of 150 knives concealed underneath a crate of toys.
("Sharp-Eyed Border Guards Find 150 Knives Under Toys," IsraelNationalNews, April 19, 2007).
IDF forces stationed at a checkpoint near Gush Etzion (West Bank) intercept a shipment of 150 knives concealed underneath a crate of toys.
("Sharp-Eyed Border Guards Find 150 Knives Under Toys," IsraelNationalNews, April 19, 2007).
April 19, 2007:
IDF Brig. Gen. Daniel Miloh tells a Tel Aviv University conference that Qassam rockets are produced by welding irrigation pipes.
"When there is one (such rocket) it's not terrible. When there are 10,000 they become a strategic threat."
Experts at the conference note that developing interceptors, even for "flying pipes," would be an expensive venture. In addition, the price of each interceptor would significantly exceed the cost of a Qassam rocket.
(Joshua Brilliant, "Analysis: U.S. and Israel Probe Alliance," United Press International, April 18, 2007).
IDF Brig. Gen. Daniel Miloh tells a Tel Aviv University conference that Qassam rockets are produced by welding irrigation pipes.
"When there is one (such rocket) it's not terrible. When there are 10,000 they become a strategic threat."
Experts at the conference note that developing interceptors, even for "flying pipes," would be an expensive venture. In addition, the price of each interceptor would significantly exceed the cost of a Qassam rocket.
(Joshua Brilliant, "Analysis: U.S. and Israel Probe Alliance," United Press International, April 18, 2007).
April 19, 2007:
- Two IDF soldiers are lightly wounded in a shooting attack west of Ramallah. The soldiers were riding in a jeep near the Ofer military base when their vehicle was fired upon by Palestinian gunmen who then fled the area.
- Palestinian terrorists fire at IDF forces in Nablus.
- Palestinian terrorists hurl an explosive device at IDF foces patrolling the Jenin area.
(Amos Harel, "2 IDF Soldiers Lightly Hurt When Vehicle Fired on Near Ramallah," Ha'aretz, April 19, 2007).
- Two IDF soldiers are lightly wounded in a shooting attack west of Ramallah. The soldiers were riding in a jeep near the Ofer military base when their vehicle was fired upon by Palestinian gunmen who then fled the area.
- Palestinian terrorists fire at IDF forces in Nablus.
- Palestinian terrorists hurl an explosive device at IDF foces patrolling the Jenin area.
(Amos Harel, "2 IDF Soldiers Lightly Hurt When Vehicle Fired on Near Ramallah," Ha'aretz, April 19, 2007).
April 19, 2007:
- IDF sappers detonate two IEDs in a controlled explosion. The IEDs were discovered along the Gaza Strip perimeter fence, near the Kissufim Crossing.
- Palestinian terrorists fire at workers near Kibbutz Nir Am (along the Gaza Strip border).
(YeshaNews [Translated from Hebrew], April 18, 2007).
- IDF sappers detonate two IEDs in a controlled explosion. The IEDs were discovered along the Gaza Strip perimeter fence, near the Kissufim Crossing.
- Palestinian terrorists fire at workers near Kibbutz Nir Am (along the Gaza Strip border).
(YeshaNews [Translated from Hebrew], April 18, 2007).
April 19, 2007:
"Hamas condemned [the] 'Dayton plan' which depended on supporting the Presidential guards with funds and weapons warning that this plan aimed to stirring up disorder in the Palestinian street.
Ismael Ridwan, the Hamas spokesman, confirmed that the American support to a Palestinian side aimed to renewing clashes between Palestinians and stirring up the Palestinian street and that will serve the Zionist interests in the area.
Ridwan affirmed on refusing any American interference in the Palestinian affair which purposed to back the disorder in the area. Ridwan calls for refusing any funds in order to support the Zionist security."
("Hamas Warned of Any Coordination With the Occupation Forces to Target Resistance," Izzedeen Al-Qassam Brigades (Hamas) Website, April 18, 2007).
"Hamas condemned [the] 'Dayton plan' which depended on supporting the Presidential guards with funds and weapons warning that this plan aimed to stirring up disorder in the Palestinian street.
Ismael Ridwan, the Hamas spokesman, confirmed that the American support to a Palestinian side aimed to renewing clashes between Palestinians and stirring up the Palestinian street and that will serve the Zionist interests in the area.
Ridwan affirmed on refusing any American interference in the Palestinian affair which purposed to back the disorder in the area. Ridwan calls for refusing any funds in order to support the Zionist security."
("Hamas Warned of Any Coordination With the Occupation Forces to Target Resistance," Izzedeen Al-Qassam Brigades (Hamas) Website, April 18, 2007).
April 18, 2007:
Israeli paratroopers arrest 19-year-old Najwa Hashash in Balata (Nablus). Hashash, unhappily married to an ailing husband, was planning to carry out a suicide bombing in Israel.
(Ali Waked, "Bride Recruited for Suicide Bombing Arrested," YnetNews, April 18, 2007).
Israeli paratroopers arrest 19-year-old Najwa Hashash in Balata (Nablus). Hashash, unhappily married to an ailing husband, was planning to carry out a suicide bombing in Israel.
(Ali Waked, "Bride Recruited for Suicide Bombing Arrested," YnetNews, April 18, 2007).
April 18, 2007:
A Palestinian woman is detained by Egyptian security forces while attempting to smuggle more than 100 spare weapon parts from the Sinai into Gaza.
Capt. Mohammed Badr of the North Sinai Peninsula police unit said the detained woman confessed to obtaining spare parts from Bedouin weapon dealers in Egypt with the intention of smuggling them into Gaza via the Rafah border crossing.
("Gaza: Woman Caught Smuggling Arms," Associated Press, April 18, 2007).
A Palestinian woman is detained by Egyptian security forces while attempting to smuggle more than 100 spare weapon parts from the Sinai into Gaza.
Capt. Mohammed Badr of the North Sinai Peninsula police unit said the detained woman confessed to obtaining spare parts from Bedouin weapon dealers in Egypt with the intention of smuggling them into Gaza via the Rafah border crossing.
("Gaza: Woman Caught Smuggling Arms," Associated Press, April 18, 2007).
April 18, 2007:
Abu Omar al-Baghdadi, head of the Islamic State of Iraq (an Al Qaeda linked group), announces the indigenous production of Al-Quds rockets.
The projectiles have "moved into the phase of military production with an advanced degree of range and accuracy."
* Wired Danger Room coverage here.
* Click here to access data on the Palestinian Quds variant.
(Maamoun Youssef and Bassem Mroue, "Iraq Group: We Make Own Rockets," Associated Press, April 17, 2007).
Abu Omar al-Baghdadi, head of the Islamic State of Iraq (an Al Qaeda linked group), announces the indigenous production of Al-Quds rockets.
The projectiles have "moved into the phase of military production with an advanced degree of range and accuracy."
* Wired Danger Room coverage here.
* Click here to access data on the Palestinian Quds variant.
(Maamoun Youssef and Bassem Mroue, "Iraq Group: We Make Own Rockets," Associated Press, April 17, 2007).
April 17, 2007:
The Hamas (JIHAD) army is currently comprised of 15,000 combatants and remains the dominant military force in the Gaza Strip.
Dozens of Hamas training camps were established in the Strip after Israel withdrew from the area. New recruits are instructed in the following basic military skills:
Hamas Military Units
Combat
The Morabitan (fighters who defend Muslim land and prepare for jihad against the enemy) is the largest unit in the Gaza Strip. It is comprised of the following brigades:
The Hamas arsenal includes thousands of:
The Hamas (JIHAD) army is currently comprised of 15,000 combatants and remains the dominant military force in the Gaza Strip.
Dozens of Hamas training camps were established in the Strip after Israel withdrew from the area. New recruits are instructed in the following basic military skills:
- Target practice
- Launching rockets (RPG, anti-tank & Qassam)
- Infiltrating barbed wire (fenced) perimeters
- Gaining control of enemy structures
Hamas Military Units
Combat
- Artillery (missiles & rockets)
- Explosives (IEDs, EFPs)
- Explosives (raw material)
- Armor
- Suicide (squads)
- Special Forces
- Intelligence
- Logistics
- Information (propaganda)
The Morabitan (fighters who defend Muslim land and prepare for jihad against the enemy) is the largest unit in the Gaza Strip. It is comprised of the following brigades:
- Northern
- Central
- Gaza (City)
- Khan Yhounis
The Hamas arsenal includes thousands of:
- Imported RPGs
- Indigenously produced Yassin RPGs
- Qassam rockets
- Rifles (various)
April 17, 2007:
- IDF undercover forces kill wanted Fatah terrorist Ahmed Hanaishe. Hamaishe was mortally wounded when he attempted to pull a firearm during his arrest.
- Four Israelis are shot and wounded near the community of Naaleh, north of Modi'in.
(Amos Harel, "IDF Kills Palestinian Militant; Four Israelis Wounded in West Bank," Ha'aretz, April 17, 2007).
- IDF undercover forces kill wanted Fatah terrorist Ahmed Hanaishe. Hamaishe was mortally wounded when he attempted to pull a firearm during his arrest.
- Four Israelis are shot and wounded near the community of Naaleh, north of Modi'in.
(Amos Harel, "IDF Kills Palestinian Militant; Four Israelis Wounded in West Bank," Ha'aretz, April 17, 2007).
April 16, 2007:
* Two members of an Al Qaeda cell were recently arrested in northern Lebanon. Credit cards and explosive materials belonging to the terrorists were also seized.
* A number of Palestinian youths in the Gaza Strip are finding ideological alternatives in groups identified with Al Qaeda, including: "Swords of Justice," "Swords of Islam" and "Army of Islamic Mujahidin."
(Ariel Shmaideberg, "Al Qaeda Cell Exposed in Northern Lebanon," NFC [Translated from Hebrew], April 15, 2007; Ali Waked, "Al-Qaeda Gaining in Strength in Gaza," YnetNews, April 15, 2007).
* Two members of an Al Qaeda cell were recently arrested in northern Lebanon. Credit cards and explosive materials belonging to the terrorists were also seized.
* A number of Palestinian youths in the Gaza Strip are finding ideological alternatives in groups identified with Al Qaeda, including: "Swords of Justice," "Swords of Islam" and "Army of Islamic Mujahidin."
(Ariel Shmaideberg, "Al Qaeda Cell Exposed in Northern Lebanon," NFC [Translated from Hebrew], April 15, 2007; Ali Waked, "Al-Qaeda Gaining in Strength in Gaza," YnetNews, April 15, 2007).
April 15, 2007:
"The Military Mobile VACIS inspection system is a compact, rugged mobile gamma ray inspection system combining non-intrusive inspection technology with all-terrain capability. The system consists of a detector array typically mounted on a rugged vehicle platform (commercial HUMMER H1 or equivalent), and a gamma ray source mounted on a small remote-controlled electric source cart. This rugged system brings VACIS inspection capabilities to hazardous locations while helping to protect operators during scanning operations. The Military Mobile VACIS inspection system can also be supplied with additional physical protection for inspection personnel during scanning operations and while relocating the system in theater.
The Military Mobile VACIS inspection system supports diverse inspection scenarios, including force protection, border interdiction, contraband screening and cargo evaluation."
* View product brochure
"The Military Mobile VACIS inspection system is a compact, rugged mobile gamma ray inspection system combining non-intrusive inspection technology with all-terrain capability. The system consists of a detector array typically mounted on a rugged vehicle platform (commercial HUMMER H1 or equivalent), and a gamma ray source mounted on a small remote-controlled electric source cart. This rugged system brings VACIS inspection capabilities to hazardous locations while helping to protect operators during scanning operations. The Military Mobile VACIS inspection system can also be supplied with additional physical protection for inspection personnel during scanning operations and while relocating the system in theater.
The Military Mobile VACIS inspection system supports diverse inspection scenarios, including force protection, border interdiction, contraband screening and cargo evaluation."
* View product brochure
April 15, 2007:
PA Chairman Abbas proposes the deployment of Palestinian presidential guards (FATAH) along certain sectors of the Egyptian-PA border to prevent weapons smuggling.
(Ronny Sofer, "Palestinian Security Forces to Patrol Philadelphi," YnetNews, April 15, 2007).
PA Chairman Abbas proposes the deployment of Palestinian presidential guards (FATAH) along certain sectors of the Egyptian-PA border to prevent weapons smuggling.
(Ronny Sofer, "Palestinian Security Forces to Patrol Philadelphi," YnetNews, April 15, 2007).
April 15, 2007:
Three explosions rock Gaza City, damaging two Internet cafes and a Christian bookstore funded by American Protestants (Bible Society).
Approximately three dozen Internet cafes and shops selling pop music have recently been attacked in the Gaza Strip.
("Bombs Hit Christian Bookstore, Two Internet Cafes in Gaza," Associated Press, April 15, 2007).
Three explosions rock Gaza City, damaging two Internet cafes and a Christian bookstore funded by American Protestants (Bible Society).
Approximately three dozen Internet cafes and shops selling pop music have recently been attacked in the Gaza Strip.
("Bombs Hit Christian Bookstore, Two Internet Cafes in Gaza," Associated Press, April 15, 2007).
April 14, 2007:
- Palestinian terrorists hurl explosive devices and fire at IDF forces operating in Jenin.
- Terrorists fire at IDF forces in Nablus.
("Summary of Events Over the Weekend," YeshaNews [Translated from Hebrew], April 14, 2007).
- Palestinian terrorists hurl explosive devices and fire at IDF forces operating in Jenin.
- Terrorists fire at IDF forces in Nablus.
("Summary of Events Over the Weekend," YeshaNews [Translated from Hebrew], April 14, 2007).
April 13, 2007:
Israeli security sources reveal that Hamas is arming Islamic Jihad with Qassam rockets and Russian-made Grad rockets (16km range) which were used to target Ashkelon on June 18, 2006.
(Ze'ev Schiff and Avi Issacharoff, "Sources: Hamas Arming Islamic Jihad with Rockets," Ha'aretz, April 13, 2007).
Israeli security sources reveal that Hamas is arming Islamic Jihad with Qassam rockets and Russian-made Grad rockets (16km range) which were used to target Ashkelon on June 18, 2006.
(Ze'ev Schiff and Avi Issacharoff, "Sources: Hamas Arming Islamic Jihad with Rockets," Ha'aretz, April 13, 2007).
April 12, 2007:
Israeli defense company Spectronix has won a $1.1 million contract to supply 90 flame and gas detections systems for US Marine Corp vehicles. The company expects a similar order from the US Army for installation in vehicles armored against mines and improved explosive devices.
(Michal Yoshay, "Spectronix Reports $4.7m Military Orders," Globes, April 11, 2007).
Israeli defense company Spectronix has won a $1.1 million contract to supply 90 flame and gas detections systems for US Marine Corp vehicles. The company expects a similar order from the US Army for installation in vehicles armored against mines and improved explosive devices.
(Michal Yoshay, "Spectronix Reports $4.7m Military Orders," Globes, April 11, 2007).
April 12, 2007:
Israelis driving past Tekoa report hearing gunfire. Two cars are damaged; however, it is unclear if the damage was caused by bullets or rocks.
("Drivers Report Gunfire Near Tekoa," IsraelNationalNews, April 12, 2007).
Israelis driving past Tekoa report hearing gunfire. Two cars are damaged; however, it is unclear if the damage was caused by bullets or rocks.
("Drivers Report Gunfire Near Tekoa," IsraelNationalNews, April 12, 2007).
April 12, 2007:
"EDO Corporation will provide the Department of Defense with 1,100 'CREW 2.1' systems and associated logistics and support equipment. CREW is an acronym for an electronic warfare system that counters radio-controlled improvised explosive devices.
This is an $88 million contract awarded by the Naval Sea Systems Command and the Program Executive Office for Littoral and Mine Warfare. It will help meet Department of Defense requirements in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom."
James M. Smith, EDO’s Chief Executive Officer: "These vehicle-mounted systems are going to counter one of the biggest threats harming our troops in the field...EDO will work diligently to make sure the equipment is delivered as quickly as possible. We will continue to invest our financial and engineering resources to improve on technology in the area of electronic force protection."
* Access full press release here.
"EDO Corporation will provide the Department of Defense with 1,100 'CREW 2.1' systems and associated logistics and support equipment. CREW is an acronym for an electronic warfare system that counters radio-controlled improvised explosive devices.
This is an $88 million contract awarded by the Naval Sea Systems Command and the Program Executive Office for Littoral and Mine Warfare. It will help meet Department of Defense requirements in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom."
James M. Smith, EDO’s Chief Executive Officer: "These vehicle-mounted systems are going to counter one of the biggest threats harming our troops in the field...EDO will work diligently to make sure the equipment is delivered as quickly as possible. We will continue to invest our financial and engineering resources to improve on technology in the area of electronic force protection."
* Access full press release here.
April 12, 2007:
- IDF forces surround the house of wanted Fatah terrorist Abed Al-Kadar A-Zakut in the village of Kalil, south of Nablus.
- Palestinian terrorists fire at IDF armored vehicles along the Gaza Strip security fence, near the Karni Crossing.
(Hilla Rappaport, "Report: IDF Forces Destroy House of Wanted Al Aksa Terrorist," NFC, [Translated from Hebrew], April 11, 2007; YeshaNews, [Translated from Hebrew], April 11, 2007).
- IDF forces surround the house of wanted Fatah terrorist Abed Al-Kadar A-Zakut in the village of Kalil, south of Nablus.
- Palestinian terrorists fire at IDF armored vehicles along the Gaza Strip security fence, near the Karni Crossing.
(Hilla Rappaport, "Report: IDF Forces Destroy House of Wanted Al Aksa Terrorist," NFC, [Translated from Hebrew], April 11, 2007; YeshaNews, [Translated from Hebrew], April 11, 2007).
April 11, 2007:
"The Mini-Nose is a portable, highly-sensitive and reliable device capable of trace and particle detection. Utilizing the company's HF-QCM technology, the Mini-NoseTM is SDT's hand-held solution for the Aviation and Homeland Security marketplace.
As specifically requested by security agencies and other customers, the Mini-NoseTM is a two-piece hand-held explosives detector consisting of a sampling unit and an analyzer.
SDT has developed its technology in accordance with US and Israeli government security agencies, adhering to their requirements and specifications for explosives detection. These agencies include: the Israeli Ministry of Defense (IMOD), the Israeli Security Agency (ISA) the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and the American Technical Support Working Group - The Pentagon (TSWG). SDT's 'sniffer' technology is multi-disciplinary, integrating: crystal science, chemistry, electro-chemistry, coating technology, adsorption, mechanics, electronics, embedded low power computing, software, and digital data processing."
* Access the full product brochure here.
"The Mini-Nose is a portable, highly-sensitive and reliable device capable of trace and particle detection. Utilizing the company's HF-QCM technology, the Mini-NoseTM is SDT's hand-held solution for the Aviation and Homeland Security marketplace.
As specifically requested by security agencies and other customers, the Mini-NoseTM is a two-piece hand-held explosives detector consisting of a sampling unit and an analyzer.
SDT has developed its technology in accordance with US and Israeli government security agencies, adhering to their requirements and specifications for explosives detection. These agencies include: the Israeli Ministry of Defense (IMOD), the Israeli Security Agency (ISA) the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and the American Technical Support Working Group - The Pentagon (TSWG). SDT's 'sniffer' technology is multi-disciplinary, integrating: crystal science, chemistry, electro-chemistry, coating technology, adsorption, mechanics, electronics, embedded low power computing, software, and digital data processing."
* Access the full product brochure here.
April 11, 2007:
Israeli security officials criticize the IDF's management of checkpoints leading in and out of the West Bank and note that new procedures and technologies are needed at the crossings.
The checkpoints lack explosives-identification technology -- but are equipped with other technological systems, including advanced cameras and sensors.
An Israeli security official: "We need additional scanners and biometric systems...This is the only way to prevent terror infiltrations..."
(Yaakov Katz, "Officials Urge Changes at Checkpoints," Jerusalem Post, April 11, 2006).
Israeli security officials criticize the IDF's management of checkpoints leading in and out of the West Bank and note that new procedures and technologies are needed at the crossings.
The checkpoints lack explosives-identification technology -- but are equipped with other technological systems, including advanced cameras and sensors.
An Israeli security official: "We need additional scanners and biometric systems...This is the only way to prevent terror infiltrations..."
(Yaakov Katz, "Officials Urge Changes at Checkpoints," Jerusalem Post, April 11, 2006).
April 11, 2007:
An Israeli civilian is moderately wounded in a terrorist shooting attack west of Kedumim, close to the West Bank city of Nablus.
(Amos Harel and Avi Issacharoff, "Israeli Moderately Hurt in W. Bank Drive-By Shooting," Ha'aretz, April 11, 2006).
An Israeli civilian is moderately wounded in a terrorist shooting attack west of Kedumim, close to the West Bank city of Nablus.
(Amos Harel and Avi Issacharoff, "Israeli Moderately Hurt in W. Bank Drive-By Shooting," Ha'aretz, April 11, 2006).
April 11, 2007:
The sum includes $43.4 million in non-lethal training and equipment for Abbas's presidential guard and $16 million to upgrade the Karni Crossing (Gaza Strip).
State Department Spokesman Sean McCormack: "No senator or representative put a hold on the money, and therefore, we can proceed with that program..."
("$60m in US Aid Freed for Palestinians," Associated Press, April 11, 2006).
The sum includes $43.4 million in non-lethal training and equipment for Abbas's presidential guard and $16 million to upgrade the Karni Crossing (Gaza Strip).
State Department Spokesman Sean McCormack: "No senator or representative put a hold on the money, and therefore, we can proceed with that program..."
("$60m in US Aid Freed for Palestinians," Associated Press, April 11, 2006).
April 10, 2007:
The Shin Bet (SHABAK/GSS) announces that it dismantled a Qalqilyah Hamas cell (in late March) that had planned to detonate a car bomb in Tel Aviv during the first night of Passover.
According to the details released by the security service, the driver, a suicide bomber, had managed to cross into Israel in a vehicle loaded with approximately 100 kilograms of explosives. However, once he reached Tel Aviv, and for reasons that are still unclear, he changed his mind and returned to Qalqilyah.
Nineteen members in the cell have been arrested by Israeli security forces.
GSS Official Announcement:
"The picture that emerges in interrogations of the members of the cell clearly signals that the Hamas organization in Qalqilyah has shifted from the stage of 'force building' to the operational stage and the carrying out of attacks, including suicide attacks inside Israel. According to information, they continue to work on planning and execution of significant attacks, including ones in the immediate future."
(Amos Harel, "Shin Bet: Hamas Planned T.A. Passover Bombing," Ha'aretz, April 10, 2006).
The Shin Bet (SHABAK/GSS) announces that it dismantled a Qalqilyah Hamas cell (in late March) that had planned to detonate a car bomb in Tel Aviv during the first night of Passover.
According to the details released by the security service, the driver, a suicide bomber, had managed to cross into Israel in a vehicle loaded with approximately 100 kilograms of explosives. However, once he reached Tel Aviv, and for reasons that are still unclear, he changed his mind and returned to Qalqilyah.
Nineteen members in the cell have been arrested by Israeli security forces.
GSS Official Announcement:
"The picture that emerges in interrogations of the members of the cell clearly signals that the Hamas organization in Qalqilyah has shifted from the stage of 'force building' to the operational stage and the carrying out of attacks, including suicide attacks inside Israel. According to information, they continue to work on planning and execution of significant attacks, including ones in the immediate future."
(Amos Harel, "Shin Bet: Hamas Planned T.A. Passover Bombing," Ha'aretz, April 10, 2006).
April 10, 2007:
Hamas refuses to merge its new 6,000 member Executive Force (EF) with other agencies in the Palestinian Authority.
The Hamas leadership is insisting that the 6,000-member EF, formally part of the Interior Ministry, will remain intact. They note that Hamas has rejected a demand by PA Chairman Mahmoud Abbas to merge the force with other security agencies as part of the new national unity government.
Former Interior Minister Said Siyam: "The Executive Force confirmed its success in the field by maintaining security and order and preventing the huge armed clans from violating the law...And this is what the other forces couldn't do."
("Hamas Will Not Merge Force with PA," Middle East Newsline, April 8, 2006).
Hamas refuses to merge its new 6,000 member Executive Force (EF) with other agencies in the Palestinian Authority.
The Hamas leadership is insisting that the 6,000-member EF, formally part of the Interior Ministry, will remain intact. They note that Hamas has rejected a demand by PA Chairman Mahmoud Abbas to merge the force with other security agencies as part of the new national unity government.
Former Interior Minister Said Siyam: "The Executive Force confirmed its success in the field by maintaining security and order and preventing the huge armed clans from violating the law...And this is what the other forces couldn't do."
("Hamas Will Not Merge Force with PA," Middle East Newsline, April 8, 2006).
April 9, 2007:
The SAIC (Science Applications International Corporation) IED Defeat Systems Management Office stands as a single point of contact for the Joint IED Defeat Organization (JIEDDO) – which leads DoD efforts to defeat IEDs as weapons of strategic influence – for coordination, management, and data flow relative to potential SAIC IED solutions. Formerly a joint task force, the JIEDDO became a permanent organization this year [2006] with a $3 billion budget to help defeat IEDs. The JIEDDO has a three-pronged approach to tackling the problem in Iraq and Afghanistan:
The key components of SAIC's vision, according to Quast, enable an integrated system framework - which includes persistent surveillance, forensics, and interdiction technology. The framework also includes biometrics, robotics, and knowledge- and risk-management tools.
("SAIC Steps up to Help Defeat IEDs," SAIC Magazine, Fall 2006).
The SAIC (Science Applications International Corporation) IED Defeat Systems Management Office stands as a single point of contact for the Joint IED Defeat Organization (JIEDDO) – which leads DoD efforts to defeat IEDs as weapons of strategic influence – for coordination, management, and data flow relative to potential SAIC IED solutions. Formerly a joint task force, the JIEDDO became a permanent organization this year [2006] with a $3 billion budget to help defeat IEDs. The JIEDDO has a three-pronged approach to tackling the problem in Iraq and Afghanistan:
- Defeat the network or the system providing the bombs
- Defeat the devices themselves
- Train ground forces to detect and avoid falling victim
The key components of SAIC's vision, according to Quast, enable an integrated system framework - which includes persistent surveillance, forensics, and interdiction technology. The framework also includes biometrics, robotics, and knowledge- and risk-management tools.
("SAIC Steps up to Help Defeat IEDs," SAIC Magazine, Fall 2006).
April 9, 2007:
- IDF forces stationed at the Kalandia Checkpoint intercept a Palestinian carrying two knives. The 23-year-old woman was previously arrested for an attempted stabbing attack against IDF soldiers.
- Palestinian terrorists fire at IDF forces in El Hashima, west of Jenin.
- PA security officers and (FATAH) terrorists exchange heavy fire in the West Bank city of Nablus, injuring three people and paralyzing the downtown area. At least one of the casualties is a bystander.
("A Summary of Events Over the Holiday," YeshaNews, [Translated from Hebrew], April 9, 2007; "Heavy Exchanges of Fire During West Bank Infighting," Associated Press, March 9, 2007).
- IDF forces stationed at the Kalandia Checkpoint intercept a Palestinian carrying two knives. The 23-year-old woman was previously arrested for an attempted stabbing attack against IDF soldiers.
- Palestinian terrorists fire at IDF forces in El Hashima, west of Jenin.
- PA security officers and (FATAH) terrorists exchange heavy fire in the West Bank city of Nablus, injuring three people and paralyzing the downtown area. At least one of the casualties is a bystander.
("A Summary of Events Over the Holiday," YeshaNews, [Translated from Hebrew], April 9, 2007; "Heavy Exchanges of Fire During West Bank Infighting," Associated Press, March 9, 2007).
April 8, 2007:
Colonel David Eshel: EFPs Explained
Photo: Intelligence and Terrorism Information Center at the Center for Special Studies (C.S.S)
Colonel David Eshel: EFPs Explained
Photo: Intelligence and Terrorism Information Center at the Center for Special Studies (C.S.S)
"An (EFP) has an outside liner in the shape of a shallow dish. On detonating the explosive, the liner is transformed into a compact, aerodynamically shaped body of metal, normally remaining intact and is therefore able to penetrate armor at long range. This high energy projectile easily punches through the outer protection of light- to medium-armored vehicles, delivering a devastating spray of fragments from liner material and vehicle armor backspall...
EFP charges are generally cylindrical, fabricated from commonly available water or oil pipe, with the forward end closed by a concave copper or steel disk-shaped liner to create a shaped charge...The average velocity is typically over 1,500 m/s depending on the design and type of explosive used. Through its kinetic energy on the order of 1 MJ, the projectile is capable of penetrating more than 100 mm of armor plate. A new type of more sophisticated IED consists of [an] oversized 'shaped charge,' located under the road surface to explode under the hull of a passing armored vehicle."
* Full Defense Update article here.
* Access WeaponSurvey data on Palestinian IEDs and EFPs here.
(Colonel David Eshel, "The EFP Killer Strikes Again in Basra," Defense Update, April 7, 2007).
April 8, 2007:
Egyptian authorities arrest a Palestinian in the Sinai Peninsula who allegedly crossed from Gaza to Egypt in one of two recently dug underground tunnels.
The two tunnels were uncovered in the Egyptian border city of Rafah. The first tunnel was found by border guards and police in the area, who earlier arrested a Palestinian as he tried to cross the border in the freshly dug tunnel.
Capt. Mohammed Badr of the North Sinai Peninsula police said after searching the tunnel, police also found water and food inside of it.
Another tunnel was discovered inside a residential area in the city of Rafah, Badr said.
("Egypt Uncovers Two Tunnels on Gaza Border, Arrests Palestinian," Associated Press, April 9, 2007).
Egyptian authorities arrest a Palestinian in the Sinai Peninsula who allegedly crossed from Gaza to Egypt in one of two recently dug underground tunnels.
The two tunnels were uncovered in the Egyptian border city of Rafah. The first tunnel was found by border guards and police in the area, who earlier arrested a Palestinian as he tried to cross the border in the freshly dug tunnel.
Capt. Mohammed Badr of the North Sinai Peninsula police said after searching the tunnel, police also found water and food inside of it.
Another tunnel was discovered inside a residential area in the city of Rafah, Badr said.
("Egypt Uncovers Two Tunnels on Gaza Border, Arrests Palestinian," Associated Press, April 9, 2007).
April 8, 2007:
IDF Border Police shoot and wound a Palestinian terrorist after he stabs two policemen near the Cave of the Patriarchs in the West Bank city of Hebron.
An IDF Spokesperson: "Two Israeli Border Policemen were stabbed. One sustained moderate wounds and the other was lightly injured...The attacker was shot in the leg. He is alive."
(Amos Harel, "Palestinian Man Shot After Stabbing 2 Israeli Troops in Hebron," Ha'aretz, April 8, 2007).
IDF Border Police shoot and wound a Palestinian terrorist after he stabs two policemen near the Cave of the Patriarchs in the West Bank city of Hebron.
An IDF Spokesperson: "Two Israeli Border Policemen were stabbed. One sustained moderate wounds and the other was lightly injured...The attacker was shot in the leg. He is alive."
(Amos Harel, "Palestinian Man Shot After Stabbing 2 Israeli Troops in Hebron," Ha'aretz, April 8, 2007).
April 8, 2007:
The Committee for Recruiting and Guiding seizes two cars belonging to the PA Intelligence apparatus in the central Gaza Strip.
("New Palestinian Military Group Seizes Two Palestinian Intelligence Vehicles," Maan News, April 7, 2007).
The Committee for Recruiting and Guiding seizes two cars belonging to the PA Intelligence apparatus in the central Gaza Strip.
("New Palestinian Military Group Seizes Two Palestinian Intelligence Vehicles," Maan News, April 7, 2007).
April 7, 2007:
- Palestinian terrorists in northern Gaza fire a rocket at a Sderot factory.
- Senior Fatah terrorist Zakariya Zubeydi is wounded during an exchange of fire with IDF forces in Jenin.
(Tova Dadon, "Qassam Hits Sderot Factory; No Injuries," YnetNews, April 7, 2007; "PA Chairman Tells Forces to Help Stop Gaza Qassam Rocket Fire," Ha'aretz, April 7, 2007).
- Palestinian terrorists in northern Gaza fire a rocket at a Sderot factory.
- Senior Fatah terrorist Zakariya Zubeydi is wounded during an exchange of fire with IDF forces in Jenin.
(Tova Dadon, "Qassam Hits Sderot Factory; No Injuries," YnetNews, April 7, 2007; "PA Chairman Tells Forces to Help Stop Gaza Qassam Rocket Fire," Ha'aretz, April 7, 2007).
April 7, 2007:
IAF helicopters fire at least three missiles at Islamic Jihad terrorists near the Jabalya refugee camp (Gaza Strip).
("IDF Fire at Northern Gaza After Noting 'Suspicious Movements'," Ha'aretz, April 7, 2007).
IAF helicopters fire at least three missiles at Islamic Jihad terrorists near the Jabalya refugee camp (Gaza Strip).
("IDF Fire at Northern Gaza After Noting 'Suspicious Movements'," Ha'aretz, April 7, 2007).
April 7, 2007:
Palestinian terrorists ambush Ghassem Bayrie, a top (FATAH) union leader in the Gaza Strip.
Union spokesman Rezek Bayrie: "This is a crime and the authorities and the government must act to end this...We are not accusing anyone except the enemy of our people."
("Palestinian Gunmen Wound Fatah Official," Associated Press, April 7, 2007).
Palestinian terrorists ambush Ghassem Bayrie, a top (FATAH) union leader in the Gaza Strip.
Union spokesman Rezek Bayrie: "This is a crime and the authorities and the government must act to end this...We are not accusing anyone except the enemy of our people."
("Palestinian Gunmen Wound Fatah Official," Associated Press, April 7, 2007).
April 6, 2007:
An IDF NCO is indicted for stealing weapons and selling them to Palestinian terrorist organizations.
Arkaan Bashir was indicted at Nazareth Magistrates Court, along with four accomplices from the villages of Illut and Kafr Kana.
(Ezra HaLevi, "Arab IDF NCO Indicted For Stealing Weapons, Selling to PA," IsraelNationalNews, April 6, 2007).
An IDF NCO is indicted for stealing weapons and selling them to Palestinian terrorist organizations.
Arkaan Bashir was indicted at Nazareth Magistrates Court, along with four accomplices from the villages of Illut and Kafr Kana.
(Ezra HaLevi, "Arab IDF NCO Indicted For Stealing Weapons, Selling to PA," IsraelNationalNews, April 6, 2007).
April 6, 2007:
PA officials express fear that the United Nations may formally declare the Gaza Strip a dangerous zone - a move that would result in the evacuation of the remaining foreign nationals from the area and drastically hamper international humanitarian aid to the Palestinians.
Yasser Abed Rabbo, member of the PLO executive committee and a close aide to PA Chairman Mahmoud Abbas: "The Gaza Strip is full of thugs and gangsters who are responsible for the ongoing anarchy. Soon the Gaza Strip may be declared a dangerous zone, which means that all international organizations would have to leave."
A prominent human rights activist in the Gaza Strip: "The Gaza Strip has become worse than Somalia...Thousands of gunmen continue to roam the streets and the new government hasn't done anything to restore law and order. Every day you hear horror stories about people who are killed and wounded. The situation is really intolerable."
(Khaled Abu Toameh, "PA Fears UN May Order All Aid Workers Out Of Lawless Gaza," Jerusalem Post, April 3, 2007).
PA officials express fear that the United Nations may formally declare the Gaza Strip a dangerous zone - a move that would result in the evacuation of the remaining foreign nationals from the area and drastically hamper international humanitarian aid to the Palestinians.
Yasser Abed Rabbo, member of the PLO executive committee and a close aide to PA Chairman Mahmoud Abbas: "The Gaza Strip is full of thugs and gangsters who are responsible for the ongoing anarchy. Soon the Gaza Strip may be declared a dangerous zone, which means that all international organizations would have to leave."
A prominent human rights activist in the Gaza Strip: "The Gaza Strip has become worse than Somalia...Thousands of gunmen continue to roam the streets and the new government hasn't done anything to restore law and order. Every day you hear horror stories about people who are killed and wounded. The situation is really intolerable."
(Khaled Abu Toameh, "PA Fears UN May Order All Aid Workers Out Of Lawless Gaza," Jerusalem Post, April 3, 2007).
April 5, 2007:
- 3,000 M-16 rifles. Transferred from Jordan via the Sheikh Hussein Crossing.
- 2,500 AK-47 rifles. Transferred from Egypt via the Rafah Crossing.
- 3 million bullets. Transferred from Egypt and Jordan.
- Heavy machine guns (Force 17). Transfer method and location unknown.
April 5, 2007:
Unknown terrorists recently detonated an explosive device at the entrance to the Salsabeel Internet Café (Rafah, Canada Corner). The explosion caused extensive damage to the café and destroyed the windows of nearby houses. The explosion also damaged electricity and telephone networks in the area.
The El-Kas Internet Café in the Jabalia refugee camp suffered a similar attack in March.
("Field Update: 2 Internet Cafés Attacked in Rafah & Jabalia," PCHR, April 3, 2007).
Unknown terrorists recently detonated an explosive device at the entrance to the Salsabeel Internet Café (Rafah, Canada Corner). The explosion caused extensive damage to the café and destroyed the windows of nearby houses. The explosion also damaged electricity and telephone networks in the area.
The El-Kas Internet Café in the Jabalia refugee camp suffered a similar attack in March.
("Field Update: 2 Internet Cafés Attacked in Rafah & Jabalia," PCHR, April 3, 2007).
April 4, 2007:
IDF forces pursue and kill an Islamic Jihad terrorist in the Gaza Strip. The chase ensued after IDF forces observed Palestinian terrorists planting explosive devices along the Gaza Strip security fence.
Two explosives were detonated during the incident.
(Amos Harel, "IDF Troops Enter North Gaza to Pursue Jihad Men, Killing One," Ha'aretz, April 4, 2007).
IDF forces pursue and kill an Islamic Jihad terrorist in the Gaza Strip. The chase ensued after IDF forces observed Palestinian terrorists planting explosive devices along the Gaza Strip security fence.
Two explosives were detonated during the incident.
(Amos Harel, "IDF Troops Enter North Gaza to Pursue Jihad Men, Killing One," Ha'aretz, April 4, 2007).
April 4, 2007:
- Palestinian terrorists fire at and moderately wound an IDF soldier in Jenin.
- Palestinian terrorists fire at IDF forces (GOLANI) in Nablus. No injuries are reported.
(YeshaNews [Translated from Hebrew], April 4, 2007).
- Palestinian terrorists fire at and moderately wound an IDF soldier in Jenin.
- Palestinian terrorists fire at IDF forces (GOLANI) in Nablus. No injuries are reported.
(YeshaNews [Translated from Hebrew], April 4, 2007).
April 3, 2007:
Palestinian terrorists fire a rocket from the northern Gaza Strip towards Israel.
An Israeli security source: "Everyone says that we must not let the situation in southern Lebanon repeat itself. In the end we will have to stand behind our words."
("Qassam rocket lands in western Negev," YnetNews, April 3, 2007).
Palestinian terrorists fire a rocket from the northern Gaza Strip towards Israel.
An Israeli security source: "Everyone says that we must not let the situation in southern Lebanon repeat itself. In the end we will have to stand behind our words."
("Qassam rocket lands in western Negev," YnetNews, April 3, 2007).
April 3, 2007:
IDF forces (GOLANI Brigade) wound Ahmed Sanakra, a Fatah terrorist during an exchange of fire in the West Bank city of Nablus.
Sanakra was involved in planning numerous bombing and shooting attacks against the IDF in the Nablus sector.
(Amos Harel, "Senior Fatah Militant Seriously Hurt by IDF Troops in West Bank," Ha'aretz, April 3, 2007).
IDF forces (GOLANI Brigade) wound Ahmed Sanakra, a Fatah terrorist during an exchange of fire in the West Bank city of Nablus.
Sanakra was involved in planning numerous bombing and shooting attacks against the IDF in the Nablus sector.
(Amos Harel, "Senior Fatah Militant Seriously Hurt by IDF Troops in West Bank," Ha'aretz, April 3, 2007).
April 2, 2007:
IDF and ISA forces arrest Hamid Maged Muhamad Dragma, a wanted Jenin based Islamic Jihad terror-operative.
Dragma, 25, resident of the village of Tubas, northeast of Nablus, received 80,000 NIS to his personal bank account, to be used by the Islamic Jihad.
After receiving legal approval and the approval of the management of the bank, IDF forces entered the bank with Dragma, who withdrew the 80,000 NIS intended for terrorist use, from his account.
The Islamic Jihad infrastructure in northern Samaria, the intended recipient of these funds, is responsible for many deadly suicide bombings in recent years, and continues to plan attacks against Israeli civilians.
Recently, terror organizations are increasingly making use of the bank accounts of supposed innocents in order to transfer large sums of money from the Islamic Jihad command in Syria to terrorist operatives.
("Islamic Jihad Terror-Operative Arrested at the Ein-Bidan Crossing," IDF Spokesperson's Office, April 3, 2007).
IDF and ISA forces arrest Hamid Maged Muhamad Dragma, a wanted Jenin based Islamic Jihad terror-operative.
Dragma, 25, resident of the village of Tubas, northeast of Nablus, received 80,000 NIS to his personal bank account, to be used by the Islamic Jihad.
After receiving legal approval and the approval of the management of the bank, IDF forces entered the bank with Dragma, who withdrew the 80,000 NIS intended for terrorist use, from his account.
The Islamic Jihad infrastructure in northern Samaria, the intended recipient of these funds, is responsible for many deadly suicide bombings in recent years, and continues to plan attacks against Israeli civilians.
Recently, terror organizations are increasingly making use of the bank accounts of supposed innocents in order to transfer large sums of money from the Islamic Jihad command in Syria to terrorist operatives.
("Islamic Jihad Terror-Operative Arrested at the Ein-Bidan Crossing," IDF Spokesperson's Office, April 3, 2007).
April 2, 2007:
The IDF receives authorization to operate in a small area on the Palestinian side of the security fence surrounding the Gaza Strip.
Counter-terrorist operations will focus on thwarting the planting of explosive devices and the excavation of weapons smuggling and infiltration tunnels.
Defense Minister Amir Peretz: "Hamas is taking advantage of the calm to strengthen itself. Detailed estimates have been given to the IDF on plans to turn [the fence] into a chain of explosives....There is also both open and covert activity against the threat of tunnels..."
(Amos Harel, "IDF to Resume Operations in Area Beyond Gaza Security Fence," Ha'aretz, April 1, 2007).
The IDF receives authorization to operate in a small area on the Palestinian side of the security fence surrounding the Gaza Strip.
Counter-terrorist operations will focus on thwarting the planting of explosive devices and the excavation of weapons smuggling and infiltration tunnels.
Defense Minister Amir Peretz: "Hamas is taking advantage of the calm to strengthen itself. Detailed estimates have been given to the IDF on plans to turn [the fence] into a chain of explosives....There is also both open and covert activity against the threat of tunnels..."
(Amos Harel, "IDF to Resume Operations in Area Beyond Gaza Security Fence," Ha'aretz, April 1, 2007).
April 2, 2007:
"The Israeli Cabinet [decides] to allocate NIS 135.15 million for the reinforcement of educational institutions in Sderot and other communities in the area of the Gaza Strip, as per its 25.3.07 decision. Half of the amount will be transferred in 2007 and half in 2008. Most school and kindergarten reinforcement projects will be completed by the opening of the next academic year. The remainder will be completed by the end of the fall holidays."
("Cabinet Communique," PMO's Office, April 1, 2007).
"The Israeli Cabinet [decides] to allocate NIS 135.15 million for the reinforcement of educational institutions in Sderot and other communities in the area of the Gaza Strip, as per its 25.3.07 decision. Half of the amount will be transferred in 2007 and half in 2008. Most school and kindergarten reinforcement projects will be completed by the opening of the next academic year. The remainder will be completed by the end of the fall holidays."
("Cabinet Communique," PMO's Office, April 1, 2007).
April 1, 2007:
The IDF and IAF complete preparations for a possible major operation in the Gaza Strip, including special training for the majority of units that might be involved and an exercise at the Southern Command Headquarters (PADAM) level. Infantry, armored units, artillery and intelligence units underwent training, primarily at the southern Tzeelim base.
The scenario for launching the Gaza operation was large-scale rocket attacks against western\northern Negev communities and the abduction of soldiers.
(Amos Harel, "IDF Completes Preparations for Possible Major Gaza Incursion," Ha'aretz, April 1, 2007).
The IDF and IAF complete preparations for a possible major operation in the Gaza Strip, including special training for the majority of units that might be involved and an exercise at the Southern Command Headquarters (PADAM) level. Infantry, armored units, artillery and intelligence units underwent training, primarily at the southern Tzeelim base.
The scenario for launching the Gaza operation was large-scale rocket attacks against western\northern Negev communities and the abduction of soldiers.
(Amos Harel, "IDF Completes Preparations for Possible Major Gaza Incursion," Ha'aretz, April 1, 2007).
April 1, 2007:
Hamas military spokesman, Abu Ubaida:
"We have nothing to lose, but this invasion will not be a walk in the park for the enemy. We will turn the Strip into a graveyard for soldiers of the occupation...We will use weapons the occupation has never known before...The Palestinian resistance is ready to deal with this aggression...We will teach the enemy a lesson and send him home disappointed, just like many times before."
(Ali Waked, "Hamas Threatens Israel," YnetNews, April 1, 2007).
Hamas military spokesman, Abu Ubaida:
"We have nothing to lose, but this invasion will not be a walk in the park for the enemy. We will turn the Strip into a graveyard for soldiers of the occupation...We will use weapons the occupation has never known before...The Palestinian resistance is ready to deal with this aggression...We will teach the enemy a lesson and send him home disappointed, just like many times before."
(Ali Waked, "Hamas Threatens Israel," YnetNews, April 1, 2007).
April 1, 2007:
Fatah establishes a new security apparatus (Special Force) in the Gaza Strip and recruits thousands of operatives in preparation for clashes with Hamas. The Special Force has thus far recruited 1,400 combatants -- a thousand of which have undergone military training.
Fatah intends to recruit an addition of at least 1,000 men to the organization, loyal to PA Chairman Mahmoud Abbas. The unit is led by the infamous terrorist, Sami Abu Samhadana.
(Avi Issacharoff, "Fatah Training New Force in Egypt for Renewed Infighting," Ha'aretz, April 1, 2007).
Fatah establishes a new security apparatus (Special Force) in the Gaza Strip and recruits thousands of operatives in preparation for clashes with Hamas. The Special Force has thus far recruited 1,400 combatants -- a thousand of which have undergone military training.
Fatah intends to recruit an addition of at least 1,000 men to the organization, loyal to PA Chairman Mahmoud Abbas. The unit is led by the infamous terrorist, Sami Abu Samhadana.
(Avi Issacharoff, "Fatah Training New Force in Egypt for Renewed Infighting," Ha'aretz, April 1, 2007).
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