August 31, 2007:
- Hundreds of Fatah supporters finish prayers in Gaza City and pelt Hamas-controlled buildings with stones and pipe bombs. Some shout insults at Hamas officials, including Shiites, in reference to the group's links to Iran.
- Hamas men beat and arrest protestors. Some fire into the air to disperse the crowd.
- A similar protest in Rafah is broken up when Hamas men fire in the air. Stun grenades land amongst the protestsors, injuring two children.
("Teenager Killed in Hamas Protest at Rafah Crossing," Ha'aretz, September 1, 2007).
- Hundreds of Fatah supporters finish prayers in Gaza City and pelt Hamas-controlled buildings with stones and pipe bombs. Some shout insults at Hamas officials, including Shiites, in reference to the group's links to Iran.
- Hamas men beat and arrest protestors. Some fire into the air to disperse the crowd.
- A similar protest in Rafah is broken up when Hamas men fire in the air. Stun grenades land amongst the protestsors, injuring two children.
("Teenager Killed in Hamas Protest at Rafah Crossing," Ha'aretz, September 1, 2007).
August 31, 2007:
"The American policy began to face fail in many areas in the middle east. Taliban declared that it condensed its operations in Afghanistan. The American administration tried to hide its casualties, but the casualties still in rise. The slow military loss, which faced the American soldiers in Iraq, is also a result of martyrdom attacks by Islamic resistance men.
And it caused great concern to the American command in Iraq and also to Washington. Also the Iranian nuclear program, which is causing a dilemma for the Americans, Zionists and some Arab 'moderates.' This project may be achieve a balance in the region in light of the Zionist military superiority to all countries of the Middle East and some Asian countries, which will not be acceptable by the Americans in any way."
("Head of Resistance is the Main Aim in Autumn," Ezzedeen Al-Qassam Brigades [Hamas] Website, August 31, 2007).
"The American policy began to face fail in many areas in the middle east. Taliban declared that it condensed its operations in Afghanistan. The American administration tried to hide its casualties, but the casualties still in rise. The slow military loss, which faced the American soldiers in Iraq, is also a result of martyrdom attacks by Islamic resistance men.
And it caused great concern to the American command in Iraq and also to Washington. Also the Iranian nuclear program, which is causing a dilemma for the Americans, Zionists and some Arab 'moderates.' This project may be achieve a balance in the region in light of the Zionist military superiority to all countries of the Middle East and some Asian countries, which will not be acceptable by the Americans in any way."
("Head of Resistance is the Main Aim in Autumn," Ezzedeen Al-Qassam Brigades [Hamas] Website, August 31, 2007).
August 31, 2007:
Royal Dutch Shell and Dow Chemical are in talks with the Iraqi government to rehabilitate and expand a chemical plant in southern Iraq at a cost of up to $ 2.1 billion.
Fawzi Hariri, the Iraq Industry Minister: "We are looking to upgrade this, and evaluate what type of products and facilities we need for the local market and beyond..."
("Shell, Dow in Talks For $ 2.1b Iraq Plant," Reuters, August 31, 2007).
Royal Dutch Shell and Dow Chemical are in talks with the Iraqi government to rehabilitate and expand a chemical plant in southern Iraq at a cost of up to $ 2.1 billion.
Fawzi Hariri, the Iraq Industry Minister: "We are looking to upgrade this, and evaluate what type of products and facilities we need for the local market and beyond..."
("Shell, Dow in Talks For $ 2.1b Iraq Plant," Reuters, August 31, 2007).
August 31, 2007:
Hossein Kamalian, Iran's Ambassador to Yemen, expresses Tehran's readiness to expand relations with Sana.
"Iran and Yemen enjoy great potentials for bolstering ties in all fields thanks to the will of their officials...Promotion of relations will be in favor of nations of the both Muslim countries.
("Iran Ready to Boost Ties with Yemen," IRNA, August 30, 2007).
Hossein Kamalian, Iran's Ambassador to Yemen, expresses Tehran's readiness to expand relations with Sana.
"Iran and Yemen enjoy great potentials for bolstering ties in all fields thanks to the will of their officials...Promotion of relations will be in favor of nations of the both Muslim countries.
("Iran Ready to Boost Ties with Yemen," IRNA, August 30, 2007).
August 31, 2007:
Khaled Jabari (FATAH) warns Sderot residents who live close to government buildings to evacuate their homes. Jabari urges them to keep away from police stations, municipal government centers and 25 government offices or else run the risk of being killed by rockets.
("Al Aqsa Brigades Warn Israelis Living Near Government Buildings in Sderot to Leave Their Homes," Ma'an News, August 30, 2007).
Khaled Jabari (FATAH) warns Sderot residents who live close to government buildings to evacuate their homes. Jabari urges them to keep away from police stations, municipal government centers and 25 government offices or else run the risk of being killed by rockets.
("Al Aqsa Brigades Warn Israelis Living Near Government Buildings in Sderot to Leave Their Homes," Ma'an News, August 30, 2007).
August 30, 2007:
- Golani Brigade soldiers apprehend a 15-year-old Palestinian in the northern Gaza Strip with two IEDs strapped to his body. Military sources believe the teen intended to carry out an attack.
- Two women are lightly wounded after a rocket fired by Palestinian terrorists from the Gaza Strip hits an empty house in Sderot. One woman is treated for shock and the other for a light leg injury.
(Mijal Grinberg and Amos Harel, "Two women Lightly Hurt After Qassam Hits House in Sderot," Ha'aretz, August 30, 2007).
- Golani Brigade soldiers apprehend a 15-year-old Palestinian in the northern Gaza Strip with two IEDs strapped to his body. Military sources believe the teen intended to carry out an attack.
- Two women are lightly wounded after a rocket fired by Palestinian terrorists from the Gaza Strip hits an empty house in Sderot. One woman is treated for shock and the other for a light leg injury.
(Mijal Grinberg and Amos Harel, "Two women Lightly Hurt After Qassam Hits House in Sderot," Ha'aretz, August 30, 2007).
August 30, 2007:
TeraPro (an Israeli company) is in the process of installing sophisticated blast protection equipment at Kabul's new airport.
"The engineering and planning teams of the new terminal were in direct contact with us through electronic means...We had to make sure that the walls meet the standards of the US Army."
TeraPro is also working on various projects with the US Army in Iraq.
(Ofer Petersburg, "Israeli Company Wins Tender to Secure Kabul Airport," YnetNews, August 29, 2007).
TeraPro (an Israeli company) is in the process of installing sophisticated blast protection equipment at Kabul's new airport.
"The engineering and planning teams of the new terminal were in direct contact with us through electronic means...We had to make sure that the walls meet the standards of the US Army."
TeraPro is also working on various projects with the US Army in Iraq.
(Ofer Petersburg, "Israeli Company Wins Tender to Secure Kabul Airport," YnetNews, August 29, 2007).
August 30, 2007:
Bandar Abbas Refinery
Managing Director of National Oil Refining and Distribution Company, Mohammad Reza Nematzadeh announces that new activities for developing oil industry and implementing major projects in southern Iran will be launched in the near future. Nematzadeh also notes that two additional refineries with a daily (total) capacity of 660,000 barrels are to be constructed in Bandar Abbas.
"The crude oil treatment capacity of Bandar Abbas refinery will increase from 232,000 to 300,000 barrels per day and an oil dock is being designed to be constructed in the near future...The plan will be implemented through investing rls 2,000 billion to develop existing pump stations and will play a major role in transfer and distribution of various types of oil products."
Neka-Jask-Pipeline
"One million barrels per day of crude oil will be transferred from Caspian Sea to the Gulf of Oman once the Neka-Jask pipeline is operational. Caretaker of Ministry of Petroleum Gholam-Hossein Nozari told reporters that this is an strategic decision for the country, which will increase the capacity for oil swap from the current figure of 150,000 to one million barrels per day.
Nozari stated that Neka -Jask cross-country pipeline will allow littoral countries of Caspian Sea to take their oil at a lower cost to free seas. Asked about the plan to increase the capacity of Bandar Abbas-Isfahan pipeline, he noted that the plan will change transfer system of oil and oil products from trucks to pipeline, both less costly and safer."
("Oil Industry in South Iran to be Developed Soon: Official," IRNA, August 28, 2007; "1m BPD of Caspian Crude to be Transferred to Gulf of Oman: Nozari," IRNA, August 28, 2007).
Bandar Abbas Refinery
Managing Director of National Oil Refining and Distribution Company, Mohammad Reza Nematzadeh announces that new activities for developing oil industry and implementing major projects in southern Iran will be launched in the near future. Nematzadeh also notes that two additional refineries with a daily (total) capacity of 660,000 barrels are to be constructed in Bandar Abbas.
"The crude oil treatment capacity of Bandar Abbas refinery will increase from 232,000 to 300,000 barrels per day and an oil dock is being designed to be constructed in the near future...The plan will be implemented through investing rls 2,000 billion to develop existing pump stations and will play a major role in transfer and distribution of various types of oil products."
Neka-Jask-Pipeline
"One million barrels per day of crude oil will be transferred from Caspian Sea to the Gulf of Oman once the Neka-Jask pipeline is operational. Caretaker of Ministry of Petroleum Gholam-Hossein Nozari told reporters that this is an strategic decision for the country, which will increase the capacity for oil swap from the current figure of 150,000 to one million barrels per day.
Nozari stated that Neka -Jask cross-country pipeline will allow littoral countries of Caspian Sea to take their oil at a lower cost to free seas. Asked about the plan to increase the capacity of Bandar Abbas-Isfahan pipeline, he noted that the plan will change transfer system of oil and oil products from trucks to pipeline, both less costly and safer."
("Oil Industry in South Iran to be Developed Soon: Official," IRNA, August 28, 2007; "1m BPD of Caspian Crude to be Transferred to Gulf of Oman: Nozari," IRNA, August 28, 2007).
August 30, 2007:
Prime Minister Ehud Olmert convenes the Security Cabinet to discuss home front preparations for emergencies.
Sderot
"GOC Home front Maj.-Gen. Yitzhak Gershon briefed ministers on preparations for the start of the academic year in the area around the Gaza Strip. Regarding reinforcing educational institutions, he said that it would be possible to open the school year in Sderot and in other communities near the Gaza Strip without any problems.
The state has invested considerable sums in reinforcing 135 out of 173 kindergartens. The reinforcement of an additional ten kindergartens is due to be completed by the beginning of September and another 16 by the end of the year.
With the start of the school year next week IDF Home Front Command soldiers will escort the children of Sderot and the communities around the Gaza Strip to their schools, will offer assistance in the schools themselves and will escort the children home at the end of the school day. Deputy Defense Minister Matan Vilnai announced that school bus stops in Sderot and the communities around the Gaza Strip will soon be reinforced."
Northern Israel
"The Prime Minister's Office, via the Defense Ministry, has started a process in which approximately 3,300 public bomb shelters, from the Amiad-Acre line in the west to the city of Tiberias and the Golan Heights in the east, will be renovated. The goal is to make these shelters inhabitable for extended periods in reasonable conditions. The work is scheduled to be completed by February 2008; 52 shelters have already renovated. Additionally, the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews is involved with the renovation of over 2,500 bomb shelters located in apartment buildings. Renovations are due to be completed circa July 2008."
("PM Olmert Convenes Security Cabinet to Discuss Home Front Emergency Preparations," Israeli PMO's Office, August 29, 2007).
Prime Minister Ehud Olmert convenes the Security Cabinet to discuss home front preparations for emergencies.
Sderot
"GOC Home front Maj.-Gen. Yitzhak Gershon briefed ministers on preparations for the start of the academic year in the area around the Gaza Strip. Regarding reinforcing educational institutions, he said that it would be possible to open the school year in Sderot and in other communities near the Gaza Strip without any problems.
The state has invested considerable sums in reinforcing 135 out of 173 kindergartens. The reinforcement of an additional ten kindergartens is due to be completed by the beginning of September and another 16 by the end of the year.
With the start of the school year next week IDF Home Front Command soldiers will escort the children of Sderot and the communities around the Gaza Strip to their schools, will offer assistance in the schools themselves and will escort the children home at the end of the school day. Deputy Defense Minister Matan Vilnai announced that school bus stops in Sderot and the communities around the Gaza Strip will soon be reinforced."
Northern Israel
"The Prime Minister's Office, via the Defense Ministry, has started a process in which approximately 3,300 public bomb shelters, from the Amiad-Acre line in the west to the city of Tiberias and the Golan Heights in the east, will be renovated. The goal is to make these shelters inhabitable for extended periods in reasonable conditions. The work is scheduled to be completed by February 2008; 52 shelters have already renovated. Additionally, the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews is involved with the renovation of over 2,500 bomb shelters located in apartment buildings. Renovations are due to be completed circa July 2008."
("PM Olmert Convenes Security Cabinet to Discuss Home Front Emergency Preparations," Israeli PMO's Office, August 29, 2007).
August 30, 2007:
- PA Prime Minister Salam Fayyad announces that 103 associations in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip have been ordered to close. According to Fayyad, the charities and local associations affected had "committed legal, financial and administrative violations."
- Hamas orders the shutdown of private Gaza clinics run by Fata loyalists.
WeaponSurvey Scenario Projection:
- PA Prime Minister Salam Fayyad announces that 103 associations in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip have been ordered to close. According to Fayyad, the charities and local associations affected had "committed legal, financial and administrative violations."
- Hamas orders the shutdown of private Gaza clinics run by Fata loyalists.
WeaponSurvey Scenario Projection:
- Balance of Power: Military supremacy, static: Gaza - Hamas (High)
- Balance of Power: Military supremacy, static: West Bank - Fatah (High)
- Counterweight: US/Israel - Fatah, training & armaments (High)
- Counterweight: Iran/Syria - Hamas, training & armaments (High)
- European Union: Continued support for Fatah (High)
- European Union: Dialogue with Hamas, other rejectionist groups (High)
August 29, 2007:
Deputy Combined Force Commander Royal Navy Commodore Keith Winstanley: "Since November of last year we have maintained a permanent two-ship presence rather like the US Navy in their permanent presence...We will be improving and uplifting that presence next year, so you can expect to see more mine counter-measure vessels in the area...There is nothing melodramatic or sinister in the uplift."
("UK to Raise Gulf Naval Presence," Gulf Times, August 29, 2007).
Deputy Combined Force Commander Royal Navy Commodore Keith Winstanley: "Since November of last year we have maintained a permanent two-ship presence rather like the US Navy in their permanent presence...We will be improving and uplifting that presence next year, so you can expect to see more mine counter-measure vessels in the area...There is nothing melodramatic or sinister in the uplift."
("UK to Raise Gulf Naval Presence," Gulf Times, August 29, 2007).
August 29, 2007:
Senior Israeli defense officials note that the IDF has not reduced its level of forces in the Golan Heights.
Defense Minister Ehud Barak: "[Syria is] showing preliminary signs of easing tensions with Israel...Israel does not have an interest in escalating tensions with Syria, and I think the Syrians don't have an interest in escalating tensions with us..."
(Yaakov Katz, "IDF Denies Reducing Level of Forces in the Golan," Jerusalem Post, August 29, 2007).
Senior Israeli defense officials note that the IDF has not reduced its level of forces in the Golan Heights.
Defense Minister Ehud Barak: "[Syria is] showing preliminary signs of easing tensions with Israel...Israel does not have an interest in escalating tensions with Syria, and I think the Syrians don't have an interest in escalating tensions with us..."
(Yaakov Katz, "IDF Denies Reducing Level of Forces in the Golan," Jerusalem Post, August 29, 2007).
August 29, 2007:
ITL Optronics Ltd. is slated to supply the IDF with infantry night-vision equipment and laser detection systems in the framework of a NIS 29 million contract. Deliveries will be made through 2010.
ITL CEO Eli Venezia: "We’re working so that every infantryman will soon have advanced personal night-vision equipment and laser detection equipment..."
("IDF Upgrades Infantry Equipment," Globes, August 29, 2007).
ITL Optronics Ltd. is slated to supply the IDF with infantry night-vision equipment and laser detection systems in the framework of a NIS 29 million contract. Deliveries will be made through 2010.
ITL CEO Eli Venezia: "We’re working so that every infantryman will soon have advanced personal night-vision equipment and laser detection equipment..."
("IDF Upgrades Infantry Equipment," Globes, August 29, 2007).
August 29, 2007:
Germany grants 34 million euros ($46.48 million) in financial aid to Syria. The package, divided between a soft loan and grants for infrastructure and development projects, is the first such German aid to Syria since the 2005 assassination of former Lebanese Prime Minister Rafik al-Hariri in Beirut.
German Development Minister Heidemarie Wieczorek-Zeul: "Syria needs to progress on the political, civil society and rule of law fronts, but our work is based on cooperation, not confrontation."
WeaponSurvey Analysis: Berlin's policy towards Damascus (and its Lebanese proxy) is now at odds with the US. It is doubtful that the above-mentioned German aid will help improve Syria's abysmal human rights record, or encourage a (genuine) re-evaluation of relations with Iran and Hizballah.
("Germany Gives 34 Million Euros Aid to Syria," Reuters, August 28, 2007).
Germany grants 34 million euros ($46.48 million) in financial aid to Syria. The package, divided between a soft loan and grants for infrastructure and development projects, is the first such German aid to Syria since the 2005 assassination of former Lebanese Prime Minister Rafik al-Hariri in Beirut.
German Development Minister Heidemarie Wieczorek-Zeul: "Syria needs to progress on the political, civil society and rule of law fronts, but our work is based on cooperation, not confrontation."
WeaponSurvey Analysis: Berlin's policy towards Damascus (and its Lebanese proxy) is now at odds with the US. It is doubtful that the above-mentioned German aid will help improve Syria's abysmal human rights record, or encourage a (genuine) re-evaluation of relations with Iran and Hizballah.
("Germany Gives 34 Million Euros Aid to Syria," Reuters, August 28, 2007).
August 28, 2007:
A rocket scores a direct hit on a home in Sderot. One Israeli sustains moderate shrapnel wounds to his eye and leg and several bystanders are treated for shock.
Eli Sabag: "I had just sat down to drink a cup of coffee when I heard the warning siren...My wife, my son and I went into the bomb shelter and waited for the Qassam to hit. When we opened the door, we saw a smoke mushroom, and we realized that it had fallen on our house."
Fatah claims responsibility for the attack, noting the projectile was an Aksa-3, an improved Qassam model.
(Yaakov Katz, "Sderot: Man Moderately Hurt by Kassam Rocket," Jerusalem Post, August 28, 2007).
A rocket scores a direct hit on a home in Sderot. One Israeli sustains moderate shrapnel wounds to his eye and leg and several bystanders are treated for shock.
Eli Sabag: "I had just sat down to drink a cup of coffee when I heard the warning siren...My wife, my son and I went into the bomb shelter and waited for the Qassam to hit. When we opened the door, we saw a smoke mushroom, and we realized that it had fallen on our house."
Fatah claims responsibility for the attack, noting the projectile was an Aksa-3, an improved Qassam model.
(Yaakov Katz, "Sderot: Man Moderately Hurt by Kassam Rocket," Jerusalem Post, August 28, 2007).
August 28, 2007:
Unidentified Palestinians detonate two bombs in Gaza City at separate locations belonging to Hamas forces, causing damage but no casualties.
("Gaza Officials: Palestinians Bomb Two Hamas Buildings in Gaza City," Reuters, August 28, 2007).
Unidentified Palestinians detonate two bombs in Gaza City at separate locations belonging to Hamas forces, causing damage but no casualties.
("Gaza Officials: Palestinians Bomb Two Hamas Buildings in Gaza City," Reuters, August 28, 2007).
August 28, 2007:
BVR Systems announces a contract valued at $10.1 million for the provision of an air defense simulator for an international customer.
The air defense simulator is comprised of a high-end graphical display system projected over dual 14m diameter domes. Each simulator enables the mounting of various SHORAD weapons.
During a simulation, trainees operate realistic mockups of the SHORAD weapon systems within a simulated training environment as their actions are monitored and reviewed by the instructors.
BVR Systems' CEO, Ilan Gillies: "This is an important element within the BVR product line and an additional significant milestone in BVR's strategy of focusing on the networking and interoperability among training systems...The customer’s decision and the encouraging increase in new orders achieved by BVR in the recent year reflect the market's faith in BVR’s unique capabilities and innovative solutions."
("BVR Systems Wins Air Defense Simulator Contract," Globes, August 28, 2007).
BVR Systems announces a contract valued at $10.1 million for the provision of an air defense simulator for an international customer.
The air defense simulator is comprised of a high-end graphical display system projected over dual 14m diameter domes. Each simulator enables the mounting of various SHORAD weapons.
During a simulation, trainees operate realistic mockups of the SHORAD weapon systems within a simulated training environment as their actions are monitored and reviewed by the instructors.
BVR Systems' CEO, Ilan Gillies: "This is an important element within the BVR product line and an additional significant milestone in BVR's strategy of focusing on the networking and interoperability among training systems...The customer’s decision and the encouraging increase in new orders achieved by BVR in the recent year reflect the market's faith in BVR’s unique capabilities and innovative solutions."
("BVR Systems Wins Air Defense Simulator Contract," Globes, August 28, 2007).
August 28, 2007:
The Hamas website credits Nidal Fat’hi Farahat with contributing to the development of the Qassam 1 and 2 rockets.
In addition, "Nidal embarked on another ambitious venture: the development of the first unmanned air vehicle for [the Hamas] Al-Qassam Brigades. He worked to assemble a remote-controlled unmanned air vehicle capable of carrying up to 20 kg. of explosives to bombard [Gaza] settlements and military outposts."
Nidal was killed in February 2003.
("Nidal Fat’hi Farahat," Ezzedeen Al-Qassam Brigades [Hamas] Website, August 28, 2007).
The Hamas website credits Nidal Fat’hi Farahat with contributing to the development of the Qassam 1 and 2 rockets.
In addition, "Nidal embarked on another ambitious venture: the development of the first unmanned air vehicle for [the Hamas] Al-Qassam Brigades. He worked to assemble a remote-controlled unmanned air vehicle capable of carrying up to 20 kg. of explosives to bombard [Gaza] settlements and military outposts."
Nidal was killed in February 2003.
("Nidal Fat’hi Farahat," Ezzedeen Al-Qassam Brigades [Hamas] Website, August 28, 2007).
August 28, 2007:
The recent delivery of an advanced Russian-made anti-ship missile to Iran leads to Israeli concern that it may be transferred to Syria and Hizballah.
The SSN-X-26 Yakhont is a supersonic cruise missile that can be launched from the coast and strike sea-borne targets up to 300 kilometers away. The missile carries a 200-kilogram warhead and flies a meter-and-a-half above sea level, making it extremely difficult to intercept. The Yakhont utilizes an advanced radar guidance system (resistant to electronic jamming) to home in on its target.
The Yakhont is an operational and tactical missile and can be used against both a medium-sized destroyer and an aircraft carrier.
An Israeli Defense official: "This is certainly a threat to the Navy...There is a real fear that if this missile is in Iran it will also be in Syria and Lebanon."
(Yaakov Katz, "Israel Worries Iran May Give Russian Anti-Ship Missile to Syria, Hizbullah," Jerusalem Post, August 28, 2007).
The recent delivery of an advanced Russian-made anti-ship missile to Iran leads to Israeli concern that it may be transferred to Syria and Hizballah.
The SSN-X-26 Yakhont is a supersonic cruise missile that can be launched from the coast and strike sea-borne targets up to 300 kilometers away. The missile carries a 200-kilogram warhead and flies a meter-and-a-half above sea level, making it extremely difficult to intercept. The Yakhont utilizes an advanced radar guidance system (resistant to electronic jamming) to home in on its target.
The Yakhont is an operational and tactical missile and can be used against both a medium-sized destroyer and an aircraft carrier.
An Israeli Defense official: "This is certainly a threat to the Navy...There is a real fear that if this missile is in Iran it will also be in Syria and Lebanon."
(Yaakov Katz, "Israel Worries Iran May Give Russian Anti-Ship Missile to Syria, Hizbullah," Jerusalem Post, August 28, 2007).
August 27, 2007:
AMRAM
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency notifies Congress of a possible Foreign Military Sale to Israel of AMRAAM missiles as well as associated equipment and services. The total value, if all options are exercised, could be as high as $171 million.
The Government of Israel has requested a possible sale of 200 AIM-120C-7 Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air (AMRAAM) missiles, containers, components, spare/repair parts, publications, documentation, personnel training, training equipment, contractor technical and logistics personnel services, and other related support elements. The estimated cost is $171 million. The principal contractor will be: Raytheon Missile Systems Corporation, Tucson, AZ.
Harpoon/Sidewinder
The total value, if all options are exercised, could be as high as $163 million.
The Government of Israel has requested a possible sale of 30 RGM-84L BLOCK II HARPOON Anti-Ship missiles with containers and 500 AIM-9M SIDEWINDER Short Range Air-to-Air Infrared Guided missiles, spares and repair parts for support equipment, training, publications and technical documents, U.S. Government and contractor technical assistance, and other related elements of logistics and program support. The estimated cost is $163 million.
The principal contractors will be: The Boeing Company in St. Louis, Missouri and Raytheon systems Corporation in Tucson, Arizona.
("Israel - Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air (AMRAAM) Missiles," US Defense Security Cooperation Agency, August 24, 2007, as cited on IMRA, August 27, 2007; "Israel - Harpoon and Sidewinder Missiles," August 24, 2007, as cited on IMRA, August 27, 2007).
AMRAM
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency notifies Congress of a possible Foreign Military Sale to Israel of AMRAAM missiles as well as associated equipment and services. The total value, if all options are exercised, could be as high as $171 million.
The Government of Israel has requested a possible sale of 200 AIM-120C-7 Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air (AMRAAM) missiles, containers, components, spare/repair parts, publications, documentation, personnel training, training equipment, contractor technical and logistics personnel services, and other related support elements. The estimated cost is $171 million. The principal contractor will be: Raytheon Missile Systems Corporation, Tucson, AZ.
Harpoon/Sidewinder
The total value, if all options are exercised, could be as high as $163 million.
The Government of Israel has requested a possible sale of 30 RGM-84L BLOCK II HARPOON Anti-Ship missiles with containers and 500 AIM-9M SIDEWINDER Short Range Air-to-Air Infrared Guided missiles, spares and repair parts for support equipment, training, publications and technical documents, U.S. Government and contractor technical assistance, and other related elements of logistics and program support. The estimated cost is $163 million.
The principal contractors will be: The Boeing Company in St. Louis, Missouri and Raytheon systems Corporation in Tucson, Arizona.
("Israel - Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air (AMRAAM) Missiles," US Defense Security Cooperation Agency, August 24, 2007, as cited on IMRA, August 27, 2007; "Israel - Harpoon and Sidewinder Missiles," August 24, 2007, as cited on IMRA, August 27, 2007).
August 27, 2007:
Public Security Minister Avi Dichter nots that Egypt's failure to prevent arms smuggling implies that Cairo wants Hamas to prosper.
Dichter: "Any right thinking person who witnesses the Egyptians' failure to act against arms smuggling can all but infer that strengthening Hamas is their interest...Egypt is capable of acting decisively against Hamas, but hasn't done that for more than seven years...Their intelligence is as good as ours.
"I am not convinced that we, here in Israel, are able to fully understand the Egyptians motives, as they see things...We are analyzing their motives through Israeli eyes, and I fear that we are a little wrong. I think Egypt wants Hamas to be strong. Maybe not too strong, but the Egyptians don't have a full grip on the spigot."
("Public Security Minister Dichter: Egypt Wants Hamas to Prosper," Ha'aretz, August 27, 2007).
Public Security Minister Avi Dichter nots that Egypt's failure to prevent arms smuggling implies that Cairo wants Hamas to prosper.
Dichter: "Any right thinking person who witnesses the Egyptians' failure to act against arms smuggling can all but infer that strengthening Hamas is their interest...Egypt is capable of acting decisively against Hamas, but hasn't done that for more than seven years...Their intelligence is as good as ours.
"I am not convinced that we, here in Israel, are able to fully understand the Egyptians motives, as they see things...We are analyzing their motives through Israeli eyes, and I fear that we are a little wrong. I think Egypt wants Hamas to be strong. Maybe not too strong, but the Egyptians don't have a full grip on the spigot."
("Public Security Minister Dichter: Egypt Wants Hamas to Prosper," Ha'aretz, August 27, 2007).
August 27, 2007:
A number of explosions rip through a chemical storage depot at Jebel Ali port in the United Arab Emirates.
There were no casualties and the fire did not disrupt shipping.
Rashid Al Matrooshi, head of administration at the Dubai Civil Defence Department: "There were explosions, sending debris up to 300 metres in the air."
Matrooshi also notes that the depot stores about 25,000 barrels of combustible material and bags of chemical powder.
Lieutenant John Gay, of the US Navy’s Fifth Fleet (Bahrain): "According to our schedule, there are no US aircraft carriers (in Jebel Ali)."
("Fire at Jebel Ali Port’s Chemical Depot Triggers Blasts," Reuters, August 27, 2007).
A number of explosions rip through a chemical storage depot at Jebel Ali port in the United Arab Emirates.
There were no casualties and the fire did not disrupt shipping.
Rashid Al Matrooshi, head of administration at the Dubai Civil Defence Department: "There were explosions, sending debris up to 300 metres in the air."
Matrooshi also notes that the depot stores about 25,000 barrels of combustible material and bags of chemical powder.
Lieutenant John Gay, of the US Navy’s Fifth Fleet (Bahrain): "According to our schedule, there are no US aircraft carriers (in Jebel Ali)."
("Fire at Jebel Ali Port’s Chemical Depot Triggers Blasts," Reuters, August 27, 2007).
August 27, 2007:
DM Ehud Barak tells the Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee that Hizballah currently has more rockets than it did prior to the Second Lebanon War. Barak was apparently referring to both long-range and short-range rockets, situated north of the Litani River, but within striking range of the Jewish State.
(Shahar Ilan, "Barak: Hezbollah Rocket Arsenal Bigger Now Than Before The War," Ha'aretz, August 27, 2007).
DM Ehud Barak tells the Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee that Hizballah currently has more rockets than it did prior to the Second Lebanon War. Barak was apparently referring to both long-range and short-range rockets, situated north of the Litani River, but within striking range of the Jewish State.
(Shahar Ilan, "Barak: Hezbollah Rocket Arsenal Bigger Now Than Before The War," Ha'aretz, August 27, 2007).
August 26, 2007:
Deputy Shin Bet Chief "Y" notes that arms smuggling in the Gaza Strip has increased. Since June 2007, 40 tons of weapons have been smuggled into the Strip – approximately one half of the total amount of armaments smuggled into the area since Israel's July 2005 disengagement.
Since August, the defense establishment has recorded five major incidents of arms smuggling through Egypt, during which 13 tons of explosives and 150 RPG launchers were imported.
(Rony Sofer, "'Hamas Planning Mega-Terror Attack in Israel'," YnetNews, August 26, 2007).
Deputy Shin Bet Chief "Y" notes that arms smuggling in the Gaza Strip has increased. Since June 2007, 40 tons of weapons have been smuggled into the Strip – approximately one half of the total amount of armaments smuggled into the area since Israel's July 2005 disengagement.
Since August, the defense establishment has recorded five major incidents of arms smuggling through Egypt, during which 13 tons of explosives and 150 RPG launchers were imported.
(Rony Sofer, "'Hamas Planning Mega-Terror Attack in Israel'," YnetNews, August 26, 2007).
August 26, 2007:
"Production line of 2,000-pound smart bombs, Qased (harbinger), and four-part production line of low-caliber piercing bullets, Saqeb (meteor) are commissioned at Tehran defense industries.
Minister of Defense and Logistics of the Armed Forces Mostafa Mohammad Najjar said in the inaugural ceremony that Iranian defense doctrine has focused on multi-lateral defense and the principle of deterrence.
'Production of the smart bomb indicated that Iranian defense capability has made an eye-catching progress in light of the designing and manufacturing expertise.'"
("Production Line of 2,000-Pound Smart Bombs Commissioned," IRNA, August 26, 2007).
"Production line of 2,000-pound smart bombs, Qased (harbinger), and four-part production line of low-caliber piercing bullets, Saqeb (meteor) are commissioned at Tehran defense industries.
Minister of Defense and Logistics of the Armed Forces Mostafa Mohammad Najjar said in the inaugural ceremony that Iranian defense doctrine has focused on multi-lateral defense and the principle of deterrence.
'Production of the smart bomb indicated that Iranian defense capability has made an eye-catching progress in light of the designing and manufacturing expertise.'"
("Production Line of 2,000-Pound Smart Bombs Commissioned," IRNA, August 26, 2007).
August 26, 2007:
Deputy Shin Bet Chief "Y" warns that Hamas may carry out a mega-terror attack.
"There were clear orders from the Hamas headquarters abroad to Hamas here to carry out a mass casualty attack in Israel..."
However, "Y" notes that the Hamas leadership in Gaza is experiencing "deep strategic complications" and is frustrated by its lack of success in gaining legitimacy in the international arena, particularly in Europe.
(Rony Sofer, "'Hamas Planning Mega-Terror Attack in Israel'," YnetNews, August 26, 2007).
Deputy Shin Bet Chief "Y" warns that Hamas may carry out a mega-terror attack.
"There were clear orders from the Hamas headquarters abroad to Hamas here to carry out a mass casualty attack in Israel..."
However, "Y" notes that the Hamas leadership in Gaza is experiencing "deep strategic complications" and is frustrated by its lack of success in gaining legitimacy in the international arena, particularly in Europe.
(Rony Sofer, "'Hamas Planning Mega-Terror Attack in Israel'," YnetNews, August 26, 2007).
August 26, 2007:
Some 700 out of 4,100 Sderot students decide not to attend school in protest of continued rocket attacks and the government's failure to fortify educational facilities. According to the town's data, only 3,400 students will be attending local schools this year compared with 4,100 in 2006, and only 750 children have registered for kindergarten compared to 900 in 2006.
(Matan Tzuri, "Students Fleeing Sderot Schools," YnetNews, August 26, 2007).
Some 700 out of 4,100 Sderot students decide not to attend school in protest of continued rocket attacks and the government's failure to fortify educational facilities. According to the town's data, only 3,400 students will be attending local schools this year compared with 4,100 in 2006, and only 750 children have registered for kindergarten compared to 900 in 2006.
(Matan Tzuri, "Students Fleeing Sderot Schools," YnetNews, August 26, 2007).
August 26, 2007:
Jamal Nazzal, Fatah West Bank spokesperson accuses Hamas of plotting to destroy the Palestinian Authority and preventing its territorial expansion.
"Hamas used to take long security breaks, and wake up only when there was a political opening regarding the possibility of an Israeli withdrawal from Palestinian territories...Then Hamas would hurry to carry out bombing operations, aiming to frustrate the peace efforts and allure the Israeli forces to bombard the headquarters of the PA...These bombing operations were conducted in coordination with Israeli intelligence services, both had the shared interest of preventing the progress of the peace process."
("Nazzal Accuses Hamas of Plotting to Destroy PA," Ma'an News, August 25, 2007).
Jamal Nazzal, Fatah West Bank spokesperson accuses Hamas of plotting to destroy the Palestinian Authority and preventing its territorial expansion.
"Hamas used to take long security breaks, and wake up only when there was a political opening regarding the possibility of an Israeli withdrawal from Palestinian territories...Then Hamas would hurry to carry out bombing operations, aiming to frustrate the peace efforts and allure the Israeli forces to bombard the headquarters of the PA...These bombing operations were conducted in coordination with Israeli intelligence services, both had the shared interest of preventing the progress of the peace process."
("Nazzal Accuses Hamas of Plotting to Destroy PA," Ma'an News, August 25, 2007).
August 25, 2007:
"During the early morning, approximately at 7 AM, two armed terrorists wearing uniforms, concealed by heavy fog, infiltrated into Israeli territory. The terrorists opened fire and hurled grenades at the Coordination and Communication Directorate in Gaza, situated near the Erez crossing. The soldier manning the crossing was lightly wounded, and returned fire in the direction of the terrorists, who were advancing towards Yad Mordechai and Kibbutz Erez. A Golani Brigade force was immediately mobilized and, upon arrival, killed the two terrorists. This took place a mere hundred meters away from the site of the original incident. The forces uncovered weapons on the bodies of the terrorists, including; explosives, grenades, and Kalashnikov assault rifles. During the firefight, an IDF soldier was lightly wounded, and later evacuated to a hospital for medical treatment.
'The instant we realized that an infiltration had taken place, we mobilized the military, the police, and security forces which were located in communities in the area,' said Colonel Moni Katz, the commander of Northern Brigade in the Gaza Division, after the incident. 'We successfully neutralized the region. One of the forces prevented the advancement of the terrorists and engaged them. We immediately surrounded them, attacked them, and the event concluded with the deaths of both terrorists.'
Colonel Katz also added: 'From our current knowledge, these terrorists belong to the Popular Resistance Committees and to the Fatah organizations. They were fully prepared with uniforms, vests, weapons, grenades, and explosives, which they intended to use against the forces pursuing them. I think that this was a very successfully operation, carried out successfully by all forces in the area within a short time span. The operation succeeded in isolating the terrorists and ending the incident with the best possible outcome.'"
("IDF Force Kills Terrorists who Infiltrated Israeli Territory," IDF Spokesperson's Office, August 25, 2007).
"During the early morning, approximately at 7 AM, two armed terrorists wearing uniforms, concealed by heavy fog, infiltrated into Israeli territory. The terrorists opened fire and hurled grenades at the Coordination and Communication Directorate in Gaza, situated near the Erez crossing. The soldier manning the crossing was lightly wounded, and returned fire in the direction of the terrorists, who were advancing towards Yad Mordechai and Kibbutz Erez. A Golani Brigade force was immediately mobilized and, upon arrival, killed the two terrorists. This took place a mere hundred meters away from the site of the original incident. The forces uncovered weapons on the bodies of the terrorists, including; explosives, grenades, and Kalashnikov assault rifles. During the firefight, an IDF soldier was lightly wounded, and later evacuated to a hospital for medical treatment.
'The instant we realized that an infiltration had taken place, we mobilized the military, the police, and security forces which were located in communities in the area,' said Colonel Moni Katz, the commander of Northern Brigade in the Gaza Division, after the incident. 'We successfully neutralized the region. One of the forces prevented the advancement of the terrorists and engaged them. We immediately surrounded them, attacked them, and the event concluded with the deaths of both terrorists.'
Colonel Katz also added: 'From our current knowledge, these terrorists belong to the Popular Resistance Committees and to the Fatah organizations. They were fully prepared with uniforms, vests, weapons, grenades, and explosives, which they intended to use against the forces pursuing them. I think that this was a very successfully operation, carried out successfully by all forces in the area within a short time span. The operation succeeded in isolating the terrorists and ending the incident with the best possible outcome.'"
("IDF Force Kills Terrorists who Infiltrated Israeli Territory," IDF Spokesperson's Office, August 25, 2007).
August 25, 2007:
The Middle East Economic Survey reports that US defense company Lockheed Martin is training thousands of recruits for a special force designed to protect Saudi Arabia's oil facilities from attack.
Saudi authorities have recruited approximately 5,000 members of the Facilities Security Force and plan to raise the number to 8,000-10,000 over the next two years as an interim target.
("US Helps Saudis Train Oil Security Force," Agence France-Presse, August 25, 2007).
The Middle East Economic Survey reports that US defense company Lockheed Martin is training thousands of recruits for a special force designed to protect Saudi Arabia's oil facilities from attack.
Saudi authorities have recruited approximately 5,000 members of the Facilities Security Force and plan to raise the number to 8,000-10,000 over the next two years as an interim target.
("US Helps Saudis Train Oil Security Force," Agence France-Presse, August 25, 2007).
August 25, 2007:
"Rafael Armament Development Authority Ltd. announces the release of the M-TAPS – Multi-Threat Armor Protection System – a new generation add-on armor technology for combat vehicles.
The recently developed M-TAPS is the newest generation hybrid (reactive / passive) add-on armor designed to defeat a variety of modern threats in the combat arena. The M-TAPS is a modular system that can be easily fitted onto any wheeled or tracked vehicle or MBT.
The system, when installed on a combat vehicle, is able to defeat Rocket Propelled Grenades (RPG), Improvised Explosive Devices (IED), Explosively Formed Projectiles (EFP), high speed fragments from artillery bombs (simulated by FSPs) and Armor Piercing (AP) projectiles from heavy machine guns.
The M-TAPS technology is an upgrade of Rafael's combat proven, Insensitive Reactive Armor system that has been successfully applied to the US Bradleys, IDF vehicles and a variety of NATO APCs.
The system has been intensively tested at Rafael's facilities and by the IDF and has demonstrated its ability to defeat powerful EFPs and RPGs, as well as other threats.
'We anticipate the successful integration of M-TAPS in the MRAP II and MPV programs as it is the ideal solution against RPGs and EFPs, which make up the majority of threats to troop vehicles in Iraq, Afghanistan and in other current conflicts' says Mr. Nehemia Shachar, Head of the Protection Systems Sector of the Ordnance and Protection Division at Rafael."
("M-TAPS - New Armor for Combat Vehicles," Rafael Press Release, August 22, 2007).
"Rafael Armament Development Authority Ltd. announces the release of the M-TAPS – Multi-Threat Armor Protection System – a new generation add-on armor technology for combat vehicles.
The recently developed M-TAPS is the newest generation hybrid (reactive / passive) add-on armor designed to defeat a variety of modern threats in the combat arena. The M-TAPS is a modular system that can be easily fitted onto any wheeled or tracked vehicle or MBT.
The system, when installed on a combat vehicle, is able to defeat Rocket Propelled Grenades (RPG), Improvised Explosive Devices (IED), Explosively Formed Projectiles (EFP), high speed fragments from artillery bombs (simulated by FSPs) and Armor Piercing (AP) projectiles from heavy machine guns.
The M-TAPS technology is an upgrade of Rafael's combat proven, Insensitive Reactive Armor system that has been successfully applied to the US Bradleys, IDF vehicles and a variety of NATO APCs.
The system has been intensively tested at Rafael's facilities and by the IDF and has demonstrated its ability to defeat powerful EFPs and RPGs, as well as other threats.
'We anticipate the successful integration of M-TAPS in the MRAP II and MPV programs as it is the ideal solution against RPGs and EFPs, which make up the majority of threats to troop vehicles in Iraq, Afghanistan and in other current conflicts' says Mr. Nehemia Shachar, Head of the Protection Systems Sector of the Ordnance and Protection Division at Rafael."
("M-TAPS - New Armor for Combat Vehicles," Rafael Press Release, August 22, 2007).
August 25, 2007:
"In a joint IDF, Border Police and ISA arrest operation in the village of Seida, the forces arrested two Islamic Jihad terror operatives and killed a third operative. The three Palestinians were members of a cell which was involved in attempts to carry out suicide bombing attacks against Israeli civilians and IDF forces.
During the operation, Zadik Uda, a senior Islamic Jihad terror operative, who cooperated together with other senior operatives, opened fire at the soldiers. He was injured during the exchange of fire and was later on arrested. In addition, Zfut Uda, a 27 year old Islamic Jihad terror operative, and the assistant of Zadik Uda, was also arrested.
During the operation, forces killed Tarek Melahem, a 23 year old resident of the village of Rai and a senior Islamic Jihad terror-operative. He was involved in activity against IDF forces and in the recruiting of additional terror operatives.
A Border Policeman was wounded during exchanges of fire.
The forces uncovered two AK-47 assault rifles and several ammunition clips that were in the possession of the gunmen. In a subsequent search, forces uncovered two army style vests containing nine explosive devices that were detonated in a controlled environment."
("Background Information: 1 Policeman Wounded, 2 Opertives Arrested, 1 Killed Northeast of Tulkarm," IDF Spokesperson's Office, August 25, 2007).
"In a joint IDF, Border Police and ISA arrest operation in the village of Seida, the forces arrested two Islamic Jihad terror operatives and killed a third operative. The three Palestinians were members of a cell which was involved in attempts to carry out suicide bombing attacks against Israeli civilians and IDF forces.
During the operation, Zadik Uda, a senior Islamic Jihad terror operative, who cooperated together with other senior operatives, opened fire at the soldiers. He was injured during the exchange of fire and was later on arrested. In addition, Zfut Uda, a 27 year old Islamic Jihad terror operative, and the assistant of Zadik Uda, was also arrested.
During the operation, forces killed Tarek Melahem, a 23 year old resident of the village of Rai and a senior Islamic Jihad terror-operative. He was involved in activity against IDF forces and in the recruiting of additional terror operatives.
A Border Policeman was wounded during exchanges of fire.
The forces uncovered two AK-47 assault rifles and several ammunition clips that were in the possession of the gunmen. In a subsequent search, forces uncovered two army style vests containing nine explosive devices that were detonated in a controlled environment."
("Background Information: 1 Policeman Wounded, 2 Opertives Arrested, 1 Killed Northeast of Tulkarm," IDF Spokesperson's Office, August 25, 2007).
August 25, 2007:
- The IDF kills four Palestinians in two separate incidents in the Gaza Strip and West Bank.
- IDF forces pursue and kill two armed terrorists after they were identified scaling the security fence near the Erez crossing. According to the IDF Spokesperson's Office, the terrorists fired at IDF forces, lightly wounding one soldier. Israel Radio notes the Palestinian terrorists were wearing army uniforms.
- A Gaza PRC spokesman confirms thar one of its operatives, along with another from the DFLP were killed in a "martyrdom operation against the Zionist entity" targeting the Israeli community of Nativ Ha'asara (Gaza border).
- IDF and Border Police forces kill senior Islamic Jihad terrorist Ala Abu al-Said in Jenin.
(Amos Harel, Yuval Azoulay, Avi Issacharoff and Yoav Stern, "IDF Kills 4 Palestinians in W. Bank, Gaza Gunfights," Ha'aretz, August 22, 2007).
- The IDF kills four Palestinians in two separate incidents in the Gaza Strip and West Bank.
- IDF forces pursue and kill two armed terrorists after they were identified scaling the security fence near the Erez crossing. According to the IDF Spokesperson's Office, the terrorists fired at IDF forces, lightly wounding one soldier. Israel Radio notes the Palestinian terrorists were wearing army uniforms.
- A Gaza PRC spokesman confirms thar one of its operatives, along with another from the DFLP were killed in a "martyrdom operation against the Zionist entity" targeting the Israeli community of Nativ Ha'asara (Gaza border).
- IDF and Border Police forces kill senior Islamic Jihad terrorist Ala Abu al-Said in Jenin.
(Amos Harel, Yuval Azoulay, Avi Issacharoff and Yoav Stern, "IDF Kills 4 Palestinians in W. Bank, Gaza Gunfights," Ha'aretz, August 22, 2007).
August 24, 2007:
Hamas security forces fire in the air and detain four journalists at a Gaza Strip protest.
Hamas gunmen fire over the heads of hundreds of demonstrators who gather at a rally organized by Fatah. The protesters chant pro-Fatah slogans, hurl stones and empty bottles and wave yellow Fatah flags.
Hamas Executive Force spokesman Islam Shahwan: "We allowed them to gather freely but they started to chant curses and attacked the security compound with stones..."
WeaponSurvey Analysis: It is doubtful that the above-mentioned protest, organized by Fatah, reflects the feeling of the "Palestinian street" in the Strip.
Indeed, Hamas:
Hamas security forces fire in the air and detain four journalists at a Gaza Strip protest.
Hamas gunmen fire over the heads of hundreds of demonstrators who gather at a rally organized by Fatah. The protesters chant pro-Fatah slogans, hurl stones and empty bottles and wave yellow Fatah flags.
Hamas Executive Force spokesman Islam Shahwan: "We allowed them to gather freely but they started to chant curses and attacked the security compound with stones..."
WeaponSurvey Analysis: It is doubtful that the above-mentioned protest, organized by Fatah, reflects the feeling of the "Palestinian street" in the Strip.
Indeed, Hamas:
- Offers the glory of martyrdom (privilege of dying as a Shaheed).
- Promises to restore Islamic dignity via the Caliphate (dismantled by the Turks).
- Proudly promotes unrealistic nationalist fantasies, including the right of return and the restoration of all Palestine.
- Provides a structured way of life, governed by religion and participation as part of a greater Muslim whole (Umma).
- Successfully promotes the image of an indigenous movement in-sync with the (Palestinian) Islamic street.
- Has successfully overcome difficult geo-political conditions.
August 24, 2007:
Iranian Defense Minister Mostafa Mohammad-Najjar: "Foreign forces should leave the Persian Gulf. Security of this waterway should be established jointly in cooperation with its littoral countries...Armed forces of Iran have currently the highest level of air, ground and sea strength and readiness. They wisely watch moves by foreign forces...Iran carries the message of peace and friendship for neighboring states in the Persian Gulf. We are interested in peaceful coexistence with Muslim neighbors."
WeaponSurvey Analysis: Iran maintains a high-level of alert as Hizballah and Syria prepare for a massive confrontation with Israel. As noted below, the Jewish state has recently altered its deployment of the Arrow anti-missile system. In the case of a war, Iran will likely deploy IRGC (Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corp) units in Lebanon and Syria. In addition, the Iranian Air Force could potentially attempt to deliver massive airlifts of weapons to Hizballah and the Syrian army.
It should also be noted that IRGC Commander-in-Chief Yahya Rahim Safavi recently announced that his forces possessed missiles capable of penetrating the armor plating fitted to Israel's Merkava tanks and US Abrams tanks.
("Minister Urges Persian Gulf States to Improve Security," Jerusalem Post, August 23, 2007).
Iranian Defense Minister Mostafa Mohammad-Najjar: "Foreign forces should leave the Persian Gulf. Security of this waterway should be established jointly in cooperation with its littoral countries...Armed forces of Iran have currently the highest level of air, ground and sea strength and readiness. They wisely watch moves by foreign forces...Iran carries the message of peace and friendship for neighboring states in the Persian Gulf. We are interested in peaceful coexistence with Muslim neighbors."
WeaponSurvey Analysis: Iran maintains a high-level of alert as Hizballah and Syria prepare for a massive confrontation with Israel. As noted below, the Jewish state has recently altered its deployment of the Arrow anti-missile system. In the case of a war, Iran will likely deploy IRGC (Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corp) units in Lebanon and Syria. In addition, the Iranian Air Force could potentially attempt to deliver massive airlifts of weapons to Hizballah and the Syrian army.
It should also be noted that IRGC Commander-in-Chief Yahya Rahim Safavi recently announced that his forces possessed missiles capable of penetrating the armor plating fitted to Israel's Merkava tanks and US Abrams tanks.
("Minister Urges Persian Gulf States to Improve Security," Jerusalem Post, August 23, 2007).
August 23, 2007:
The IDF modifies its missile defense doctrine and alters its deployment of the Arrow anti-missile system in northern Israel.
A high-ranking officer: "Our assumption is that the next war will be characterized by missile onslaughts, and lots of them...We can tell from the way our 'neighbors' are training that this is what they are planning and that we can expect a repeat of what happened during the Second Lebanon War...Our objective is to create the infrastructure and ensure that the Arrow will be interoperable with other systems."
(Yaakov Katz, "Fearing Syrian Missile Onslaught, IDF Boosts Arrow Defenses in North," Jerusalem Post, August 23, 2007).
The IDF modifies its missile defense doctrine and alters its deployment of the Arrow anti-missile system in northern Israel.
A high-ranking officer: "Our assumption is that the next war will be characterized by missile onslaughts, and lots of them...We can tell from the way our 'neighbors' are training that this is what they are planning and that we can expect a repeat of what happened during the Second Lebanon War...Our objective is to create the infrastructure and ensure that the Arrow will be interoperable with other systems."
(Yaakov Katz, "Fearing Syrian Missile Onslaught, IDF Boosts Arrow Defenses in North," Jerusalem Post, August 23, 2007).
August 23, 2007:
"As Iran emerges as a mutual threat to both Israel and the Sunni Arab states, it becomes difficult for Arab leaders to argue against U.S.-Israel cooperation that might also serve their security interests as well. For example, Lebanese Hizbullah has been active in Iraq training Shiite militias that attack both coalition forces and Iraqi Sunnis."
Full Article Here.
(Dore Gold, "Understanding the U.S.-Israel Alliance: An Israeli Response to the Walt-Mearsheimer Claim," JCPA, August 22, 2007).
"As Iran emerges as a mutual threat to both Israel and the Sunni Arab states, it becomes difficult for Arab leaders to argue against U.S.-Israel cooperation that might also serve their security interests as well. For example, Lebanese Hizbullah has been active in Iraq training Shiite militias that attack both coalition forces and Iraqi Sunnis."
Full Article Here.
(Dore Gold, "Understanding the U.S.-Israel Alliance: An Israeli Response to the Walt-Mearsheimer Claim," JCPA, August 22, 2007).
August 23, 2007:
The Executive Force (EF) and the police force in the Gaza Strip will be combined.
Tahir An-Nounou: "They will be in charge of the prevention of drug smuggling and will be watching the shore in addition to protecting picnickers and the Palestinian public..."
("Executive Force and Police Force in the Gaza Strip to be Combined," Ma'an News, August 23, 2007).
The Executive Force (EF) and the police force in the Gaza Strip will be combined.
Tahir An-Nounou: "They will be in charge of the prevention of drug smuggling and will be watching the shore in addition to protecting picnickers and the Palestinian public..."
("Executive Force and Police Force in the Gaza Strip to be Combined," Ma'an News, August 23, 2007).
August 23, 2007:
- Three IDF soldiers are lightly wounded during an operation in the Nablus Ein Beit Ilma refugee camp.
- Palestinian terrorists hurl IEDs and grenades at IDF forces.
- IDF forces detain seven wanted terrorists across the West Bank.
- Three Hamas terrorists are wounded in an IAF strike as they approach Israeli forces in the southern Gaza Strip.
- A gunbattle erupts between IDF troops and Hamas terrorists near the Israel-Gaza border.
- A Qassam rocket strikes a house in the western Negev town of Sderot, damaging a home but causing no injuries.
- A total of seven Qassam rockets were fired from the Gaza Strip towards Israel on Thursday.
("Three IDF Soldiers Hurt in Operation in West Bank Refugee Camp," Ha'aretz, August 23, 2007; "Qassam Rocket Hits Sderot House; Family Treated for Shock," Ha'aretz, August 23, 2007).
- Three IDF soldiers are lightly wounded during an operation in the Nablus Ein Beit Ilma refugee camp.
- Palestinian terrorists hurl IEDs and grenades at IDF forces.
- IDF forces detain seven wanted terrorists across the West Bank.
- Three Hamas terrorists are wounded in an IAF strike as they approach Israeli forces in the southern Gaza Strip.
- A gunbattle erupts between IDF troops and Hamas terrorists near the Israel-Gaza border.
- A Qassam rocket strikes a house in the western Negev town of Sderot, damaging a home but causing no injuries.
- A total of seven Qassam rockets were fired from the Gaza Strip towards Israel on Thursday.
("Three IDF Soldiers Hurt in Operation in West Bank Refugee Camp," Ha'aretz, August 23, 2007; "Qassam Rocket Hits Sderot House; Family Treated for Shock," Ha'aretz, August 23, 2007).
August 23, 2007:
"Iran's guided intelligent bomb named `Ghased' (Messenger) will be operational during Government Week (August 24-30). Defense Ministry's Defense Propagation Department said the bomb, developed by the Ministry's technicians and experts, is one of the most powerful, modern and intelligent bombs of the world, whose construction has thus far been under monopoly of a few states.
The bomb can be fired from F4 and F5 planes."
("'Ghased' Bomb to be Operational in Gov't Week," IRNA, August 22, 2007).
"Iran's guided intelligent bomb named `Ghased' (Messenger) will be operational during Government Week (August 24-30). Defense Ministry's Defense Propagation Department said the bomb, developed by the Ministry's technicians and experts, is one of the most powerful, modern and intelligent bombs of the world, whose construction has thus far been under monopoly of a few states.
The bomb can be fired from F4 and F5 planes."
("'Ghased' Bomb to be Operational in Gov't Week," IRNA, August 22, 2007).
August 22, 2007:
State Comptroller Micha Lindenstrauss: "We are worried about the fortification problem. The central government must do its job in a more significant manner. More should be done to spare human lives...It's no secret that over the past two years the state control has expressed its stance on many issues in a very clear and blunt manner, some may even say too blunt.
We are concerned that if we do not give our opinion on matters of integrity we will find ourselves a Third World country. We are working according to the law for the efficiency of the government and in order to prevent waste."
(Shmulik Hadad, "State Must Do More to Protect Gaza Vicinity, Says Comptroller," YnetNews, August 22, 2007).
State Comptroller Micha Lindenstrauss: "We are worried about the fortification problem. The central government must do its job in a more significant manner. More should be done to spare human lives...It's no secret that over the past two years the state control has expressed its stance on many issues in a very clear and blunt manner, some may even say too blunt.
We are concerned that if we do not give our opinion on matters of integrity we will find ourselves a Third World country. We are working according to the law for the efficiency of the government and in order to prevent waste."
(Shmulik Hadad, "State Must Do More to Protect Gaza Vicinity, Says Comptroller," YnetNews, August 22, 2007).
August 22, 2007:
Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyed Ali Khamenei: "The Iranian diplomacy has rejected the oppression in the international relations and advocates international peace and prosperity for all nations. That's why there is a challenge between Iran and the global arrogance...The Iranian nation came up victoriously from the eight-year imposed war despite the fact that both the Eastern and Western powers backed the Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein. Iran has made progress in science and technology and has become stronger in economic, political and social fields which heralds victory in the challenge with the hegemonic powers."
("Supreme Leader Recalls 30-year Campaign Against US Dominance," IRNA, August 21, 2007).
Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyed Ali Khamenei: "The Iranian diplomacy has rejected the oppression in the international relations and advocates international peace and prosperity for all nations. That's why there is a challenge between Iran and the global arrogance...The Iranian nation came up victoriously from the eight-year imposed war despite the fact that both the Eastern and Western powers backed the Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein. Iran has made progress in science and technology and has become stronger in economic, political and social fields which heralds victory in the challenge with the hegemonic powers."
("Supreme Leader Recalls 30-year Campaign Against US Dominance," IRNA, August 21, 2007).
August 22, 2007:
An IAF strike kills at least one Hamas terrorist in the Gaza Strip near the border fence with Israel.
An IDF spokesman: "We fired on them and reported hitting them."
Hamas identifies the casualty as Yehia Habib, a senior field commander in Gaza City.
(Yuval Azoulay, Yoav Stern and Mijal Grinberg, "IAF Airstrike Kills Hamas Militant in Gaza Strip," Ha'aretz, August 22, 2007).
An IAF strike kills at least one Hamas terrorist in the Gaza Strip near the border fence with Israel.
An IDF spokesman: "We fired on them and reported hitting them."
Hamas identifies the casualty as Yehia Habib, a senior field commander in Gaza City.
(Yuval Azoulay, Yoav Stern and Mijal Grinberg, "IAF Airstrike Kills Hamas Militant in Gaza Strip," Ha'aretz, August 22, 2007).
August 22, 2007:
The Aksa Martyrs Brigades (FATAH) announces it will no longer honor understandings reached with Israel.
"We call on all our members who handed over their weapons to the Palestinian security forces to report to their commanders so that they can be issued new weapons...We call on all our members to display caution and not to be deceived by the so-called amnesty from Israel...We will no longer honor the agreements that were reached with Israel over the issue of the wanted men. We won't hand over our guns. This is a lie designed to split the Palestinian resistance."
(Khaled Abu Toameh, "Aksa Martyrs Brigades: We'll no Longer Honor Agreements with Israel," Jerusalem Post, August 21, 2007).
The Aksa Martyrs Brigades (FATAH) announces it will no longer honor understandings reached with Israel.
"We call on all our members who handed over their weapons to the Palestinian security forces to report to their commanders so that they can be issued new weapons...We call on all our members to display caution and not to be deceived by the so-called amnesty from Israel...We will no longer honor the agreements that were reached with Israel over the issue of the wanted men. We won't hand over our guns. This is a lie designed to split the Palestinian resistance."
(Khaled Abu Toameh, "Aksa Martyrs Brigades: We'll no Longer Honor Agreements with Israel," Jerusalem Post, August 21, 2007).
August 21, 2007:
Russian President Vladimir Putin announces plans to expand Russia's military power.
"Russia has a very important goal which is to retain leadership in the production of military equipment...As a state that has acquired new economic capabilities, will continue to attach special importance to high technology and development."
WeaponSurvey Analysis: Moscow (along with Beijing) will work to undermine US policy in the Middle East by maintaining close ties with Hamas and thwarting (serious) sanctions against Iran within the UNSC.
(Luke Harding, "Putin Flexes his Military Muscles," Guardian, August 21, 2007).
Russian President Vladimir Putin announces plans to expand Russia's military power.
"Russia has a very important goal which is to retain leadership in the production of military equipment...As a state that has acquired new economic capabilities, will continue to attach special importance to high technology and development."
WeaponSurvey Analysis: Moscow (along with Beijing) will work to undermine US policy in the Middle East by maintaining close ties with Hamas and thwarting (serious) sanctions against Iran within the UNSC.
(Luke Harding, "Putin Flexes his Military Muscles," Guardian, August 21, 2007).
August 21, 2007:
- IDF forces kill Nasser Mabrouh (PFLP) during a firefight in the West Bank city of Nablus. In addition, IDF sappers defuse an IED.
- The IAF targets Palestinian terrorists in the southern Gaza Strip approaching the perimeter fence, killing three.
- Palestinian terrorists fire at IDF forces in the West Bank town of Jenin.
- IDF forces detain 20 Palestinian terror suspects throughout the WB, inlcuding the Islamic Jihad commander in Kabatiya.
("IDF Troops Kill PFLP Member in Nablus," Associated Press, August 21, 2007; "Three Dead in IAF Air Strike in Gaza," Jerusalem Post, August 21, 2007).
- IDF forces kill Nasser Mabrouh (PFLP) during a firefight in the West Bank city of Nablus. In addition, IDF sappers defuse an IED.
- The IAF targets Palestinian terrorists in the southern Gaza Strip approaching the perimeter fence, killing three.
- Palestinian terrorists fire at IDF forces in the West Bank town of Jenin.
- IDF forces detain 20 Palestinian terror suspects throughout the WB, inlcuding the Islamic Jihad commander in Kabatiya.
("IDF Troops Kill PFLP Member in Nablus," Associated Press, August 21, 2007; "Three Dead in IAF Air Strike in Gaza," Jerusalem Post, August 21, 2007).
August 21, 2007:
Iran will export 35 billion cubic meters of gas to Europe (annually) once a pipeline is laid to Europe via Turkish territory.
Caretaker of Oil Ministry Gholam-Hossein Nozari: "The project for development of three phases of South Pars gas field will be implemented on buy-back basis by the Turkish entrepreneurs."
("Iran to Export 35bn CM/Y Gas to Europe Via Turkeys," IRNA, August 20, 2007).
Iran will export 35 billion cubic meters of gas to Europe (annually) once a pipeline is laid to Europe via Turkish territory.
Caretaker of Oil Ministry Gholam-Hossein Nozari: "The project for development of three phases of South Pars gas field will be implemented on buy-back basis by the Turkish entrepreneurs."
("Iran to Export 35bn CM/Y Gas to Europe Via Turkeys," IRNA, August 20, 2007).
August 21, 2007:
Media reports indicate that IAI will provide a radar system for a new Indian fighter plane. The deal is potentially worth hundreds of millions of dollars.
(Aryeh Egozy, "IAI Lands Multi-Million Dollar Deal in India," YnetNews, August 20, 2007).
Media reports indicate that IAI will provide a radar system for a new Indian fighter plane. The deal is potentially worth hundreds of millions of dollars.
(Aryeh Egozy, "IAI Lands Multi-Million Dollar Deal in India," YnetNews, August 20, 2007).
August 20-21, 2007:
The EU halts financing for the energy company that supplies fuel to the Gaza Strip electricity company, following the Hamas ousting of its executives.
Palestinian Minister of Information, Dr Riyad Al Maliki: "The EU will not back down on its decision before Hamas backs down on its control over the power company..."
EU Spokeswoman Alix de Mauny: "Following security concerns during the last few days, we've taken the opportunity to assess the situation to make sure all elements for a high level of accountability are in place...We hope on the back of that we would be able to resume our supply of delivery of fuel to Gaza."
The EU announces the resumption of vital fuel aid to the Gaza Strip's electric company, noting that payments would commence on a provisional basis. ("EU Stopped Financing Gaza Electric Company After Hamas Take-Over, Palestinian Information Minister Says," Ma'an New, August 20, 2007; "EU Says Will Resume Fuel Aid for Gaza Strip's Electric Company," Ha'aretz, August 21, 2007).
The EU halts financing for the energy company that supplies fuel to the Gaza Strip electricity company, following the Hamas ousting of its executives.
Palestinian Minister of Information, Dr Riyad Al Maliki: "The EU will not back down on its decision before Hamas backs down on its control over the power company..."
EU Spokeswoman Alix de Mauny: "Following security concerns during the last few days, we've taken the opportunity to assess the situation to make sure all elements for a high level of accountability are in place...We hope on the back of that we would be able to resume our supply of delivery of fuel to Gaza."
The EU announces the resumption of vital fuel aid to the Gaza Strip's electric company, noting that payments would commence on a provisional basis. ("EU Stopped Financing Gaza Electric Company After Hamas Take-Over, Palestinian Information Minister Says," Ma'an New, August 20, 2007; "EU Says Will Resume Fuel Aid for Gaza Strip's Electric Company," Ha'aretz, August 21, 2007).
August 20, 2007:
- The IDF targets 6 Hamas terrorists traveling in a car along a central Gaza Strip road.
- The IDF confirms the strike, noting that ground forces fired at a car carrying Hamas terrorists involved in firing mortar shells at Israeli targets near the Gaza Strip perimeter fence.
- The IAF targets an Islamic Jihad rocket cell near Beit Hanoun.
- Palestinian terrorists fire four Qassam rockets at the western Negev.
- Hamas spokesman Abu Ubaida: "The Zionist enemy [Israel] is playing with fire and they will have to shoulder the responsibility for the consequences of this crime...If the Zionist enemy fears the possibility of a response with rockets then they should know that we have even more dangerous weapons."
(Yuval Azoulay, "Six Hamas Militants Killed in IDF Strike on Gaza Car," Ha'aretz, August 20, 2007).
- The IDF targets 6 Hamas terrorists traveling in a car along a central Gaza Strip road.
- The IDF confirms the strike, noting that ground forces fired at a car carrying Hamas terrorists involved in firing mortar shells at Israeli targets near the Gaza Strip perimeter fence.
- The IAF targets an Islamic Jihad rocket cell near Beit Hanoun.
- Palestinian terrorists fire four Qassam rockets at the western Negev.
- Hamas spokesman Abu Ubaida: "The Zionist enemy [Israel] is playing with fire and they will have to shoulder the responsibility for the consequences of this crime...If the Zionist enemy fears the possibility of a response with rockets then they should know that we have even more dangerous weapons."
(Yuval Azoulay, "Six Hamas Militants Killed in IDF Strike on Gaza Car," Ha'aretz, August 20, 2007).
August 20, 2007:
The IDF considers purchasing the PAC-3, an improved model of the US-made Patriot missile defense system. Lockheed Martin apparently offered the system to the IDF for a relatively low price of under $50 million.
Israel's current missile defense systems is comprised of the Arrow, which is designed to intercept long-range ballistic missiles such as the Iranian Shihab, and the PAC-2, which is utilized as a second level of defense if the Arrow fails.
The PAC-3 includes an interceptor missile that utilizes a hit-to-kill system rather than an exploding warhead used by the PAC-2. In addition, PAC-3 missile launchers are capable of firing 16, rather than four interceptors.
(Yaakov Katz, "IDF Might Buy Latest Patriot Missile," Jerusalem Post, August 19, 2007).
The IDF considers purchasing the PAC-3, an improved model of the US-made Patriot missile defense system. Lockheed Martin apparently offered the system to the IDF for a relatively low price of under $50 million.
Israel's current missile defense systems is comprised of the Arrow, which is designed to intercept long-range ballistic missiles such as the Iranian Shihab, and the PAC-2, which is utilized as a second level of defense if the Arrow fails.
The PAC-3 includes an interceptor missile that utilizes a hit-to-kill system rather than an exploding warhead used by the PAC-2. In addition, PAC-3 missile launchers are capable of firing 16, rather than four interceptors.
(Yaakov Katz, "IDF Might Buy Latest Patriot Missile," Jerusalem Post, August 19, 2007).
August 19, 2007:
Hamas Unveils New Al Qassam Banner
Hamas Unveils New Al Qassam Banner
August 19, 2007:
Egyptian security forces seize 500 kilograms of TNT explosives hidden in sacks near the country's border with the Gaza Strip. The cache was discovered in the northern Sinai after security officals received a tip from local Bedouins.
("Egypt Police Find Explosives Cache Near Gaza Border," Associated Press, August 19, 2007).
Egyptian security forces seize 500 kilograms of TNT explosives hidden in sacks near the country's border with the Gaza Strip. The cache was discovered in the northern Sinai after security officals received a tip from local Bedouins.
("Egypt Police Find Explosives Cache Near Gaza Border," Associated Press, August 19, 2007).
August 18, 2007:
IDF forces fire at three Palestinians identified near the Gaza security fence, south of the Karni Crossing. One Palestinian is killed and the two others wounded. The army notes that the soldiers opened fire when the Palestinians appeared to plant an explosive device along the border fence.
A senior Southern Command (PADAM) officer: "Every time someone approaches the fence we categorize it as a potential terror attack...Our mission is to stop anyone who comes close to the fence."
An additional five Palestinians are caught after they had infiltrated into Israel near Kibbutz Be'eri.
A military source: "This is a complicated mission since sometimes they are terrorists and sometimes they are civilians sent by terrorists to test us and to collect intelligence...We view each incident as a potential terror attack and cannot afford to take any chances."
("IDF Kills Palestinian Planting Bomb," Jerusalem Post, August 18, 2007).
IDF forces fire at three Palestinians identified near the Gaza security fence, south of the Karni Crossing. One Palestinian is killed and the two others wounded. The army notes that the soldiers opened fire when the Palestinians appeared to plant an explosive device along the border fence.
A senior Southern Command (PADAM) officer: "Every time someone approaches the fence we categorize it as a potential terror attack...Our mission is to stop anyone who comes close to the fence."
An additional five Palestinians are caught after they had infiltrated into Israel near Kibbutz Be'eri.
A military source: "This is a complicated mission since sometimes they are terrorists and sometimes they are civilians sent by terrorists to test us and to collect intelligence...We view each incident as a potential terror attack and cannot afford to take any chances."
("IDF Kills Palestinian Planting Bomb," Jerusalem Post, August 18, 2007).
August 18, 2007:
Hamas Lists Friday Attacks
Hamas Lists Friday Attacks
August 18, 2007:
Commander of Islamic Republic Guard Corps (IRGC), Brigadier General Yahya Rahim-Safavi: "Revising this force's strategy, training methods, organizational flowchart, facilities, management, staff management and control, is a bare necessity today, due to the presence of ultra-regional forces in the region, and the probability of confrontation with them."
Rahim-Savi also notes that the IRGC is taking advantage of ballistic missiles with over a 2,000 kilometer range, as well as a very capable anti-aircraft defense network. Currently, the IRGC maintains barracks at the most sensitive, vital, and strategic locations of the country, including the oil rich province of Khuzestan, the northwest, Hormoz Strait, the Persian Gulf, and Iran's three Islands. In addition, IRGC's land, air and naval forces, as well as the IRGC's Basij mobilization voluntary force, and the Qods Corps, are positioned alongside Iran's borders.
("Strategy Revision was a Necessity at IRGC - Commander," IRNA, August 17, 2007).
Commander of Islamic Republic Guard Corps (IRGC), Brigadier General Yahya Rahim-Safavi: "Revising this force's strategy, training methods, organizational flowchart, facilities, management, staff management and control, is a bare necessity today, due to the presence of ultra-regional forces in the region, and the probability of confrontation with them."
Rahim-Savi also notes that the IRGC is taking advantage of ballistic missiles with over a 2,000 kilometer range, as well as a very capable anti-aircraft defense network. Currently, the IRGC maintains barracks at the most sensitive, vital, and strategic locations of the country, including the oil rich province of Khuzestan, the northwest, Hormoz Strait, the Persian Gulf, and Iran's three Islands. In addition, IRGC's land, air and naval forces, as well as the IRGC's Basij mobilization voluntary force, and the Qods Corps, are positioned alongside Iran's borders.
("Strategy Revision was a Necessity at IRGC - Commander," IRNA, August 17, 2007).
August 18, 2007:
- Two Palestinians are killed (one an Islamic Jihad operative) during an exchange of fire between IDF forces and Palestinian terrorists in the village of Kafr Dan.
- Palestinians fire at an IDF jeep in Kabatiya.
- An explosive device is hurled at soldiers manning a checkpoint south of Nablus.
- The IAF fires two missiles at Palestinian rocket launchers in the northern Gaza Strip.
("Gunfight Between IDF and Islamic Jihad Leaves Two Dead," Jerusalem Post, August 17, 2007).
- Two Palestinians are killed (one an Islamic Jihad operative) during an exchange of fire between IDF forces and Palestinian terrorists in the village of Kafr Dan.
- Palestinians fire at an IDF jeep in Kabatiya.
- An explosive device is hurled at soldiers manning a checkpoint south of Nablus.
- The IAF fires two missiles at Palestinian rocket launchers in the northern Gaza Strip.
("Gunfight Between IDF and Islamic Jihad Leaves Two Dead," Jerusalem Post, August 17, 2007).
August 18, 2007:
The Russian and Chinese militaries conduct their first joint maneuvers on Russian soil. The war games in the southern Ural Mountains involve approximately 6,000 troops from Russia and China, as well as a small number of soldiers from four ex-Soviet Central Asian nations that are part of the regional Shanghai Cooperation Organization (dominated by Moscow and Beijing).
In parallel, the Russian Air Force launches dozens of strategic bombers that fly over the Atlantic, Pacific and Arctic oceans.
(Ivan Sekretarev, "Russia, China Hold Joint War Games," Associated Press, August 17, 2007).
The Russian and Chinese militaries conduct their first joint maneuvers on Russian soil. The war games in the southern Ural Mountains involve approximately 6,000 troops from Russia and China, as well as a small number of soldiers from four ex-Soviet Central Asian nations that are part of the regional Shanghai Cooperation Organization (dominated by Moscow and Beijing).
In parallel, the Russian Air Force launches dozens of strategic bombers that fly over the Atlantic, Pacific and Arctic oceans.
(Ivan Sekretarev, "Russia, China Hold Joint War Games," Associated Press, August 17, 2007).
August 17, 2007:
Palestinian terrorists in the northern Gaza Strip fire three rockets and 12 mortar shells towards southern Israel. Islamic Jihad claims responsibility.
Media reports indicate that a shortage of fertilizer utilized by Palestinian terrorist groups to fuel indigenous rockets have caused a decrease in the number of launches. It should be noted that the price of a kilo of fertilizer has risen from $20 to $50 in the Strip.
"In addition to the smugglings, our people are producing a similar substitute. But the shortages also apply to materials we use to produce fertilizers and substitutes to it and therefore there is a crisis and the situation is difficult..."
(Ali Waked, "Rocket, Mortar Barrages Hit Negev," YnetNews, August 17, 2007).
Palestinian terrorists in the northern Gaza Strip fire three rockets and 12 mortar shells towards southern Israel. Islamic Jihad claims responsibility.
Media reports indicate that a shortage of fertilizer utilized by Palestinian terrorist groups to fuel indigenous rockets have caused a decrease in the number of launches. It should be noted that the price of a kilo of fertilizer has risen from $20 to $50 in the Strip.
"In addition to the smugglings, our people are producing a similar substitute. But the shortages also apply to materials we use to produce fertilizers and substitutes to it and therefore there is a crisis and the situation is difficult..."
(Ali Waked, "Rocket, Mortar Barrages Hit Negev," YnetNews, August 17, 2007).
August 17, 2007:
General Seyed Yahya Rahim Safavi, Commander of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corp (IRGC): "Western powers have got to know that Iran has turned to a regional power and establishment of the security in the region without observing Iran's rights is not possible."
("West has to Accept Iran's Influence, Power and Rights in Mideast, Safavi," IRNA, August 16, 2007).
General Seyed Yahya Rahim Safavi, Commander of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corp (IRGC): "Western powers have got to know that Iran has turned to a regional power and establishment of the security in the region without observing Iran's rights is not possible."
("West has to Accept Iran's Influence, Power and Rights in Mideast, Safavi," IRNA, August 16, 2007).
August 17, 2007:
The leader of the (Hamas) Executive Force in the southern Gaza Strip, Mahmoud Kheil, announces that the weapons of the Dughmosh family are being handed over to the EF at the Preventive Security Service HQ in Tel Al-Hawa.
Kheil explained that the agreement with the Dugmush family was reached after the Executive Force besieged the powerful clan family for three consecutive days.
("Dughmosh Clan Surrender Weapons to Hamas' Executive Force," Ma'an News, August 16, 2007).
The leader of the (Hamas) Executive Force in the southern Gaza Strip, Mahmoud Kheil, announces that the weapons of the Dughmosh family are being handed over to the EF at the Preventive Security Service HQ in Tel Al-Hawa.
Kheil explained that the agreement with the Dugmush family was reached after the Executive Force besieged the powerful clan family for three consecutive days.
("Dughmosh Clan Surrender Weapons to Hamas' Executive Force," Ma'an News, August 16, 2007).
August 17, 2007:
Defense industry officials tell Ha'aretz that Lack of a consistent funding plan may leave the home front vulnerable to rocket and missile threats.
A senior defense industry official notes that the (Rafael) Iron Dome project "is advancing at a very slow pace, which contradicts the cabinet's resolutions on quickly setting up active defenses for towns and cities near the Gaza Strip and the border with Lebanon that have in past years come under repeated rocket attacks...The system should be declared a national project, with the multi-annual budgetary plan that comes with such a move."
(Yuval Azoulay, "Funding Problems Delay Missile Defense Plan," Ha'aretz, August 17, 2007).
Defense industry officials tell Ha'aretz that Lack of a consistent funding plan may leave the home front vulnerable to rocket and missile threats.
A senior defense industry official notes that the (Rafael) Iron Dome project "is advancing at a very slow pace, which contradicts the cabinet's resolutions on quickly setting up active defenses for towns and cities near the Gaza Strip and the border with Lebanon that have in past years come under repeated rocket attacks...The system should be declared a national project, with the multi-annual budgetary plan that comes with such a move."
(Yuval Azoulay, "Funding Problems Delay Missile Defense Plan," Ha'aretz, August 17, 2007).
August 17, 2007:
The IDF completes its first phase of a planned upgrade of the reserve emergency supplies warehouses. Emergency supplies and equipment were (partially) procured for the Armor, Engineers and Intelligence Corps, Infantry Brigades and elite units.
The new equipment includes helmets, conical headwear, specs, light bullet-proof vests, ceramic vests and more. The IDF is also upgrading thousands of M16 rifles by removing their forward assist feature.
A senior IDF officer: "The soldiers have equipment specific to their specialty in the field ready and waiting for them...After the full completion of the reserve forces' supplies upgrade, we'll start working on emergency supplies for Home Front Command and the rest of the military."
(Hanan Greenberg, "IDF Completes First Stage of Reservists' Equipment Upgrade," YnetNews, August 16, 2007).
The IDF completes its first phase of a planned upgrade of the reserve emergency supplies warehouses. Emergency supplies and equipment were (partially) procured for the Armor, Engineers and Intelligence Corps, Infantry Brigades and elite units.
The new equipment includes helmets, conical headwear, specs, light bullet-proof vests, ceramic vests and more. The IDF is also upgrading thousands of M16 rifles by removing their forward assist feature.
A senior IDF officer: "The soldiers have equipment specific to their specialty in the field ready and waiting for them...After the full completion of the reserve forces' supplies upgrade, we'll start working on emergency supplies for Home Front Command and the rest of the military."
(Hanan Greenberg, "IDF Completes First Stage of Reservists' Equipment Upgrade," YnetNews, August 16, 2007).
August 16, 2007:
In response to the Zionist aggression against the Palestinian people in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip, Al-Qassam Brigades declared the following:
- Type of operation: 5 mortars
- Target: Kesufim cross
- Day: Thursday, August 16th, 2007, 11:20
("Al Qassam Brigades Fired 5 Mortars at Kesufim Cross," Ezzedeen Al-Qassam Brigades [Hamas] Website, August 16, 2007).
In response to the Zionist aggression against the Palestinian people in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip, Al-Qassam Brigades declared the following:
- Type of operation: 5 mortars
- Target: Kesufim cross
- Day: Thursday, August 16th, 2007, 11:20
("Al Qassam Brigades Fired 5 Mortars at Kesufim Cross," Ezzedeen Al-Qassam Brigades [Hamas] Website, August 16, 2007).
August 16, 2007:
Israel and the United States sign a Memorandum of Understanding. Under the new aid agreement, the US will transfer $30 billion to Israel over 10 years, compared with $24 billion over the past decade. The new aid deal represents a 25% increase in US military aid to Israel. Israel is slated to receive the first payment in October 2008, amounting to $2.55 billion. That sum will grow each year by $150 million, until it reaches $3.1 billion in 2011.
US Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs R. Nicholas Burns: "There is an axis of cooperation between Iran, Syria, Hezbollah, Islamic Jihad and Hamas that is responsible for the violence in the region...A strong and secure Israel is an American interest."
(Barak Ravid, "Israel, U.S. Formally Sign New Defense Agreement," Ha'aretz, August 16, 2007).
Israel and the United States sign a Memorandum of Understanding. Under the new aid agreement, the US will transfer $30 billion to Israel over 10 years, compared with $24 billion over the past decade. The new aid deal represents a 25% increase in US military aid to Israel. Israel is slated to receive the first payment in October 2008, amounting to $2.55 billion. That sum will grow each year by $150 million, until it reaches $3.1 billion in 2011.
US Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs R. Nicholas Burns: "There is an axis of cooperation between Iran, Syria, Hezbollah, Islamic Jihad and Hamas that is responsible for the violence in the region...A strong and secure Israel is an American interest."
(Barak Ravid, "Israel, U.S. Formally Sign New Defense Agreement," Ha'aretz, August 16, 2007).
August 16, 2007:
IRGC (Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corp) Commander-in-Chief Yahya Rahim Safavi announces that his forces possess missiles capable of penetrating the armor plating fitted to Israel's Merkava tanks and US Abrams tanks.
Safavi also notes that Iranian missiles with a a range of 2,000 km are fitted with equipment that enables them to be remote controlled - an apparent reference to the Shahab-3 missile, which has the range to hit Israel - and that Iranian missiles can hit warships operating anywhere in the Gulf and Oman Sea.
"Our coast-to-sea missile systems can now reach the breadth and length of the Persian Gulf and Oman Sea and no warships can pass in the Persian Gulf without being in range of our coast-to-sea missiles..."
("Revolutionary Guards: Iran Can Penetrate Israel's Merkava Tanks," Reuters, August 15, 2007).
IRGC (Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corp) Commander-in-Chief Yahya Rahim Safavi announces that his forces possess missiles capable of penetrating the armor plating fitted to Israel's Merkava tanks and US Abrams tanks.
Safavi also notes that Iranian missiles with a a range of 2,000 km are fitted with equipment that enables them to be remote controlled - an apparent reference to the Shahab-3 missile, which has the range to hit Israel - and that Iranian missiles can hit warships operating anywhere in the Gulf and Oman Sea.
"Our coast-to-sea missile systems can now reach the breadth and length of the Persian Gulf and Oman Sea and no warships can pass in the Persian Gulf without being in range of our coast-to-sea missiles..."
("Revolutionary Guards: Iran Can Penetrate Israel's Merkava Tanks," Reuters, August 15, 2007).
August 16, 2007:
"Zionist sources reported, which competent in statistical terms, that there is increasing in the Zionist migration from living in the Zionist entity in recent years. The statistic Center said that in 2005, the abandonment of Zionist entity reached to 21500 and they did not return. The sources said that, despite the government's attempt to hide these 'difficult' figures, Statistics Center finally admitted this fact and deal with it by saying: The fact that more than 20 thousand Zionist LEFT the Zionist entity and did not return.
Zionist officials described what was happening as a growing of migration from the Zionist entity, which is a term used by officials to describe the migration of Zionists. Sources reported that most immigrants outside of the Zionist entity are category of young people and young people who have difficulties to acclimate with the Zionist society after having received advanced degrees."
("More than 20 Thousands Zionists Migrate from the Zionist Entity," Ezzedeen Al-Qassam Brigades [Hamas] Website, August 15, 2007).
"Zionist sources reported, which competent in statistical terms, that there is increasing in the Zionist migration from living in the Zionist entity in recent years. The statistic Center said that in 2005, the abandonment of Zionist entity reached to 21500 and they did not return. The sources said that, despite the government's attempt to hide these 'difficult' figures, Statistics Center finally admitted this fact and deal with it by saying: The fact that more than 20 thousand Zionist LEFT the Zionist entity and did not return.
Zionist officials described what was happening as a growing of migration from the Zionist entity, which is a term used by officials to describe the migration of Zionists. Sources reported that most immigrants outside of the Zionist entity are category of young people and young people who have difficulties to acclimate with the Zionist society after having received advanced degrees."
("More than 20 Thousands Zionists Migrate from the Zionist Entity," Ezzedeen Al-Qassam Brigades [Hamas] Website, August 15, 2007).
August 15, 2007:
Two Israelis are lightly wounded when Palestinian terrorists in Gaza fire a barrage of mortar shells towards the District Coordination Offices (DCO) at the Erez Crossing. Hamas claims responsibility for the attack.
("Two Wounded in Erez Mortar Barrage," Jerusalem Post, August 15, 2007).
Two Israelis are lightly wounded when Palestinian terrorists in Gaza fire a barrage of mortar shells towards the District Coordination Offices (DCO) at the Erez Crossing. Hamas claims responsibility for the attack.
("Two Wounded in Erez Mortar Barrage," Jerusalem Post, August 15, 2007).
August 15, 2007:
The IDF identifies a tunnel leading from the Gaza Strip towards Israel. The tunnel shaft was connected to a Gaza greenhouse situated 700 meters from the perimeter fence.
IDF sources note that terrorists planned to use the tunnel in order to plant and detonate an IED under an Israeli military target.
"It is possible such tunnels are already ready and that terror activists are waiting to receive an order to use them. We must not forget that (IDF soldiers) Gilad Shalit was kidnapped by terrorists who entered Israel through a tunnel...The uncovering of the tunnel in the northern Strip illustrates just how important the military activity near the fence in recent months is and how significant it is in thwarting terror attacks."
Click Here for Video.
(Hanan Greenberg, "IDF Uncovers Tunnel in Gaza," YnetNews, August 15, 2007).
The IDF identifies a tunnel leading from the Gaza Strip towards Israel. The tunnel shaft was connected to a Gaza greenhouse situated 700 meters from the perimeter fence.
IDF sources note that terrorists planned to use the tunnel in order to plant and detonate an IED under an Israeli military target.
"It is possible such tunnels are already ready and that terror activists are waiting to receive an order to use them. We must not forget that (IDF soldiers) Gilad Shalit was kidnapped by terrorists who entered Israel through a tunnel...The uncovering of the tunnel in the northern Strip illustrates just how important the military activity near the fence in recent months is and how significant it is in thwarting terror attacks."
Click Here for Video.
(Hanan Greenberg, "IDF Uncovers Tunnel in Gaza," YnetNews, August 15, 2007).
August 15, 2007:
Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad: "There is no truth on earth but monotheism and following tenets of Islam and there is no way for salvation of mankind but rule of Islam over mankind...All of us have the duty to resist the enemy by closing our ranks."
("President: Rule of Islam Only Way for Salvation of Mankind," IRNA, August 14, 2007).
Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad: "There is no truth on earth but monotheism and following tenets of Islam and there is no way for salvation of mankind but rule of Islam over mankind...All of us have the duty to resist the enemy by closing our ranks."
("President: Rule of Islam Only Way for Salvation of Mankind," IRNA, August 14, 2007).
August 15, 2007:
Two Hamas security men are killed during heavy clashes with members of the Dugmush clan in Gaza. More than 20 others sustain injuries as firefights rage around a Dugmush clan residence, west of Gaza City.
(Ali Waked, "Hamas Clashes with Shalit Abductors, 2 Gunmen Dead," YnetNews, August 14, 2007).
Two Hamas security men are killed during heavy clashes with members of the Dugmush clan in Gaza. More than 20 others sustain injuries as firefights rage around a Dugmush clan residence, west of Gaza City.
(Ali Waked, "Hamas Clashes with Shalit Abductors, 2 Gunmen Dead," YnetNews, August 14, 2007).
August 15, 2007:
Media reports indicate that Israeli security forces have apprehended Hamas operatives and weapons dealers in the Jabal al Mukabbir neighborhood of East Jerusalem. The operatives were apparently linked to two Hamas terrorists, responsible for an attack against Israeli Border Policemen in Al Sheikh Sa'id (May 2007).
("Israeli Forces Arrest Weapons Dealers in E. Jerusalem, Suspected of Connection to Al Sheikh Sa'id Operation," Ma'an News, August 13, 2007).
Media reports indicate that Israeli security forces have apprehended Hamas operatives and weapons dealers in the Jabal al Mukabbir neighborhood of East Jerusalem. The operatives were apparently linked to two Hamas terrorists, responsible for an attack against Israeli Border Policemen in Al Sheikh Sa'id (May 2007).
("Israeli Forces Arrest Weapons Dealers in E. Jerusalem, Suspected of Connection to Al Sheikh Sa'id Operation," Ma'an News, August 13, 2007).
August 14, 2007:
"Ezzedeen AL Qassam Brigades announced its responsibility for shelling 9 RPGs, Yassin rocket and 9 mortars in Khan Younis and Biet Lahia. Also the Nasser Brigades of the Popular Resistance Committees announced that they pursued an Zionist soldier and launched a rocket-propelled grenade at an Zionist military bulldozer and Zionist troops in the Abasan area...
The victims of the Zionist bombardment have been named as Qassam Brigades activist Omar Al Qarra, his mother Sabha Al Qarra, 70-year-old Ibrahim Al Sami, and Muhammad Abu Msamih, aged 24, also a member of Hamas' Qassam Brigades."
("Two Qassam Members were Martyred in Addition to Two Civilians," Ezzedeen Al-Qassam Brigades [Hamas] Website, August 14, 2007).
"Ezzedeen AL Qassam Brigades announced its responsibility for shelling 9 RPGs, Yassin rocket and 9 mortars in Khan Younis and Biet Lahia. Also the Nasser Brigades of the Popular Resistance Committees announced that they pursued an Zionist soldier and launched a rocket-propelled grenade at an Zionist military bulldozer and Zionist troops in the Abasan area...
The victims of the Zionist bombardment have been named as Qassam Brigades activist Omar Al Qarra, his mother Sabha Al Qarra, 70-year-old Ibrahim Al Sami, and Muhammad Abu Msamih, aged 24, also a member of Hamas' Qassam Brigades."
("Two Qassam Members were Martyred in Addition to Two Civilians," Ezzedeen Al-Qassam Brigades [Hamas] Website, August 14, 2007).
August 14, 2007:
As part of the IDF's continuing effort to prevent terrorist activity in the Gaza Strip, infantry, armor, engineering and air forces have been operating since this morning in the Gaza Strip with the assistance of intelligence sources forces.
During the activity, IDF forces identified approximately ten armed Palestinian gunmen who were involved in shooting attacks and in attempts to carry out various attacks against IDF soldiers in the region. The forces fired at, and identified hitting the gunmen.
During the activity, forces discovered various weapons, including a suicide explosive belt and an explosive device. Approximately 100 suspected Palestinians were questioned by security forces, some of whom taken to Israel for questioning.
In addition, Palestinians opened fire at the forces lightly wounding an IDF soldier. The soldier received medical treatment on the scene and was evacuated to an Israeli hospital for further treatment
("Summary of Today's Activity in Gaza Strip," IDF Spokesperson's Office, August 14, 2007).
As part of the IDF's continuing effort to prevent terrorist activity in the Gaza Strip, infantry, armor, engineering and air forces have been operating since this morning in the Gaza Strip with the assistance of intelligence sources forces.
During the activity, IDF forces identified approximately ten armed Palestinian gunmen who were involved in shooting attacks and in attempts to carry out various attacks against IDF soldiers in the region. The forces fired at, and identified hitting the gunmen.
During the activity, forces discovered various weapons, including a suicide explosive belt and an explosive device. Approximately 100 suspected Palestinians were questioned by security forces, some of whom taken to Israel for questioning.
In addition, Palestinians opened fire at the forces lightly wounding an IDF soldier. The soldier received medical treatment on the scene and was evacuated to an Israeli hospital for further treatment
("Summary of Today's Activity in Gaza Strip," IDF Spokesperson's Office, August 14, 2007).
August 14, 2007:
Reliant Mermaid VIII, which is a live, joint Search and Rescue exercise, will be conducted by the participant elements of Israeli, Turkish and United States Naval and Air Forces between August 20th and August 24th 2007. Turkey is the host country of the event and the exercise will take place in the international waters of the Eastern Mediterranean Sea south of the Turkish coast.
The objective of this exercise is to practice coordinated emergency search and rescue procedures and measures for safety of life at sea. By enhancing their interoperability, cooperation, and coordination level during the exercise, elements of the three naval and air forces will be able to respond more efficiently and rapidly to the potential maritime emergencies as well as to the humanitarian assistances in the future.
The exercise will be conducted by 10 ships, 4 helicopters and 4 search and rescue aircraft of all three countries.
("Joint Israeli, US & Turkish Military Exercise," IDF Spokesperson's Office, August 13, 2007).
Reliant Mermaid VIII, which is a live, joint Search and Rescue exercise, will be conducted by the participant elements of Israeli, Turkish and United States Naval and Air Forces between August 20th and August 24th 2007. Turkey is the host country of the event and the exercise will take place in the international waters of the Eastern Mediterranean Sea south of the Turkish coast.
The objective of this exercise is to practice coordinated emergency search and rescue procedures and measures for safety of life at sea. By enhancing their interoperability, cooperation, and coordination level during the exercise, elements of the three naval and air forces will be able to respond more efficiently and rapidly to the potential maritime emergencies as well as to the humanitarian assistances in the future.
The exercise will be conducted by 10 ships, 4 helicopters and 4 search and rescue aircraft of all three countries.
("Joint Israeli, US & Turkish Military Exercise," IDF Spokesperson's Office, August 13, 2007).
August 14, 2007:
Pakistani President General Pervez Musharraf announces that his country will proceeed with the Iran-Pakistan-India gas pipeline project. Musharraf also announces his recognition of the Hamas government.
("Musharraf Says Iran Gas Pipeline is in Pakistan's Interest," IRNA, August 13, 2007).
Pakistani President General Pervez Musharraf announces that his country will proceeed with the Iran-Pakistan-India gas pipeline project. Musharraf also announces his recognition of the Hamas government.
("Musharraf Says Iran Gas Pipeline is in Pakistan's Interest," IRNA, August 13, 2007).
August 14, 2007:
"The Executive Force announced the formation of its new coast guard unit as the 'Marine Police.' Saber Khalifa, a spokesman for the Executive Force, said the new body will consist of 150 members and soon will begin its operations on the coast of the Gaza Strip.
He said the new force's main functions will include preventing the smuggling of drugs into Gaza, protecting Gaza's fishermen, maintaining security for Gaza residents on the beach and preventing the traitors to meet and deliver information in the sea.
Hamas took steps to establish the security and restore law and order in the coastal strip. Hamas has already introduced a new traffic police unit and will soon open a new internal security agency."
("The Interior Ministry Announced Formation of New Naval Guard Unit," Ezzedeen Al-Qassam Brigades [Hamas] Website, August 13, 2007).
"The Executive Force announced the formation of its new coast guard unit as the 'Marine Police.' Saber Khalifa, a spokesman for the Executive Force, said the new body will consist of 150 members and soon will begin its operations on the coast of the Gaza Strip.
He said the new force's main functions will include preventing the smuggling of drugs into Gaza, protecting Gaza's fishermen, maintaining security for Gaza residents on the beach and preventing the traitors to meet and deliver information in the sea.
Hamas took steps to establish the security and restore law and order in the coastal strip. Hamas has already introduced a new traffic police unit and will soon open a new internal security agency."
("The Interior Ministry Announced Formation of New Naval Guard Unit," Ezzedeen Al-Qassam Brigades [Hamas] Website, August 13, 2007).
August 14, 2007:
- One Hamas operative is killed and seven others wounded by IDF forces in the southern Gaza Strip.
- Islamic Jihad and Hamas confirms clashing with troops operating near the town of Khan Younis when they were targeted by the IAF.
- The IDF confirms it carried out a first strike against an Islamic Jihad operative. However, the IDF clarifies that the second shooting was a result of infantry forces operating in the area.
("General Motors Set to Open R&D Center in Israel," Globes, August 13, 2007).
- One Hamas operative is killed and seven others wounded by IDF forces in the southern Gaza Strip.
- Islamic Jihad and Hamas confirms clashing with troops operating near the town of Khan Younis when they were targeted by the IAF.
- The IDF confirms it carried out a first strike against an Islamic Jihad operative. However, the IDF clarifies that the second shooting was a result of infantry forces operating in the area.
("General Motors Set to Open R&D Center in Israel," Globes, August 13, 2007).
August 13, 2007:
Globes reports that General Motors Corporation is in advanced negotiations to establish an R&D center in Israel with an initial investment of tens of millions of dollars. The center is slated to employ hundreds of engineers and researchers in various fields related to GM’s activities worldwide, including the development of alternative driving systems, vehicle electronics and communications systems, robotics, advanced materials, imaging systems, and safety.
("General Motors Set to Open R&D Center in Israel," Globes, August 13, 2007).
Globes reports that General Motors Corporation is in advanced negotiations to establish an R&D center in Israel with an initial investment of tens of millions of dollars. The center is slated to employ hundreds of engineers and researchers in various fields related to GM’s activities worldwide, including the development of alternative driving systems, vehicle electronics and communications systems, robotics, advanced materials, imaging systems, and safety.
("General Motors Set to Open R&D Center in Israel," Globes, August 13, 2007).
August 13, 2007:
The PA police resumes its law-enforcement activities in Area B of the West Bank, where the IDF is responsible for security.
The renewed police patrols, carried out in coordination with Israeli security elements, are currently focused on countering criminal activity.
(Avi Issacharoff and Amos Harel, "PA Forces Resume Police Control over Area B in the West Bank," Ha'aretz, August 13, 2007).
The PA police resumes its law-enforcement activities in Area B of the West Bank, where the IDF is responsible for security.
The renewed police patrols, carried out in coordination with Israeli security elements, are currently focused on countering criminal activity.
(Avi Issacharoff and Amos Harel, "PA Forces Resume Police Control over Area B in the West Bank," Ha'aretz, August 13, 2007).
August 13, 2007:
Israeli military sources note that Syria is nearing the end of an accelerated deployment of a large rocket arsenal of Katyusha and Scud missiles, including Scud D and other improved missiles supplied by Iran, that can deliver 500-kilogram payloads to Tel Aviv with a destructive force large enough to damage entire blocks of buildings.
(Herb Keinon and Josh Brannon, "IDF Assessment: Syria Thinks Olmert Wants to Launch War," Jerusalem Post, August 13, 2007).
Israeli military sources note that Syria is nearing the end of an accelerated deployment of a large rocket arsenal of Katyusha and Scud missiles, including Scud D and other improved missiles supplied by Iran, that can deliver 500-kilogram payloads to Tel Aviv with a destructive force large enough to damage entire blocks of buildings.
(Herb Keinon and Josh Brannon, "IDF Assessment: Syria Thinks Olmert Wants to Launch War," Jerusalem Post, August 13, 2007).
August 12, 2007:
Supreme Leader of the (Iranian) Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei: "Nowadays, the most corrupt people are hoisting the flag of reforming the world and the satanic and arrogant power of the US which intends to impose its despotic rule on all human societies, accuses Islam of terrorism and reactionism while it, itself, is the root cause of oppression to Muslim nations and terrorism, corruption, wars and bloodshed...Today, the Muslim world is injured and corrupt people who are the enemies of all Muslims are trying to cause disunity in the Islamic world by intensifying ethnic difference and separating people under names such as Shia and Sunni, Arabs and non Arabs."
("Supreme Leader Felicitates World Muslims on Mab'ath Occasion," IRNA, August 12, 2007).
Supreme Leader of the (Iranian) Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei: "Nowadays, the most corrupt people are hoisting the flag of reforming the world and the satanic and arrogant power of the US which intends to impose its despotic rule on all human societies, accuses Islam of terrorism and reactionism while it, itself, is the root cause of oppression to Muslim nations and terrorism, corruption, wars and bloodshed...Today, the Muslim world is injured and corrupt people who are the enemies of all Muslims are trying to cause disunity in the Islamic world by intensifying ethnic difference and separating people under names such as Shia and Sunni, Arabs and non Arabs."
("Supreme Leader Felicitates World Muslims on Mab'ath Occasion," IRNA, August 12, 2007).
August 12, 2007:
The Sunday Telegraph reports that Hizballah is buying up large tracts of land owned by Christians and other non-Shias in southern Lebanon as the group rebuilds its defenses in preparation for a new war with Israel.
Hizballah has been free to press forward without harassment from the 13,000 United Nations peacekeepers and 20,000 Lebanese army troops who were deployed south of the Litani as part of the ceasefire agreement that ended the conflict.
Druze leader Walid Jumblatt: "It is part of Hizballah's plan to create a state within a state..."
(Charles Levinson, "Hizbollah Buys Frontier Land to Attack Israel," Sunday Telegraph, August 11, 2007).
The Sunday Telegraph reports that Hizballah is buying up large tracts of land owned by Christians and other non-Shias in southern Lebanon as the group rebuilds its defenses in preparation for a new war with Israel.
Hizballah has been free to press forward without harassment from the 13,000 United Nations peacekeepers and 20,000 Lebanese army troops who were deployed south of the Litani as part of the ceasefire agreement that ended the conflict.
Druze leader Walid Jumblatt: "It is part of Hizballah's plan to create a state within a state..."
(Charles Levinson, "Hizbollah Buys Frontier Land to Attack Israel," Sunday Telegraph, August 11, 2007).
August 11, 2007:
Pan-Islamic, Sunni party, Hizb Ut Tahrir (Party of Liberation), holds an inauguration conference for the Palestinian section of the movement in Ramallah. Tens of thousands participate in the conference entitled 'Caliphate: The Incoming Force'.
The conference delegates emphasize the importance of supporting Islam and the creation of a caliphate state; an Islamic form of government representing political unity and leadership in the Muslim world.
The proposal for the composition of the caliphate includes thirteen departments, such as a military, a judiciary, media and foreign affairs.
("Thousands Participate in 'Caliphate: The Incoming Force' Conference in Ramallah," Ma'an News, August 11, 2007).
Pan-Islamic, Sunni party, Hizb Ut Tahrir (Party of Liberation), holds an inauguration conference for the Palestinian section of the movement in Ramallah. Tens of thousands participate in the conference entitled 'Caliphate: The Incoming Force'.
The conference delegates emphasize the importance of supporting Islam and the creation of a caliphate state; an Islamic form of government representing political unity and leadership in the Muslim world.
The proposal for the composition of the caliphate includes thirteen departments, such as a military, a judiciary, media and foreign affairs.
("Thousands Participate in 'Caliphate: The Incoming Force' Conference in Ramallah," Ma'an News, August 11, 2007).
August 11, 2007:
"Strong pillars supported the U.S.-Turkish bilateral relationship during the Cold War and throughout the 1990s, as the Soviet Union collapsed and Turkey sought its place in Eurasia. During the Cold War, Turkey's pro-Western secular elites championed unpopular causes: Turkey supported U.S. operations during the 1991 Gulf War and provided operational and intelligence support over the next ten years during Operation Northern Watch in Iraq's Kurdistan. Turkey also played vital roles in Bosnia, Kosovo, Somalia, and Afghanistan.
Likewise, the U.S. supported Turkey by cracking down on the Kurdish terrorist organization PKK, culminating in the 1999 capture of its leader, Abdullah Ocalan. Successive U.S. administrations supported Turkey's European Union membership and opposed a slew of Armenian genocide resolutions in Congress. These relations produced goodwill and major projects, such as the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan pipeline. Turkey's military cooperation with Israel thrived."
Full Article Here.
(Ariel Cohen, "The Turkish Strategic Challenge After the July Elections," JCPA, August 10, 2007).
"Strong pillars supported the U.S.-Turkish bilateral relationship during the Cold War and throughout the 1990s, as the Soviet Union collapsed and Turkey sought its place in Eurasia. During the Cold War, Turkey's pro-Western secular elites championed unpopular causes: Turkey supported U.S. operations during the 1991 Gulf War and provided operational and intelligence support over the next ten years during Operation Northern Watch in Iraq's Kurdistan. Turkey also played vital roles in Bosnia, Kosovo, Somalia, and Afghanistan.
Likewise, the U.S. supported Turkey by cracking down on the Kurdish terrorist organization PKK, culminating in the 1999 capture of its leader, Abdullah Ocalan. Successive U.S. administrations supported Turkey's European Union membership and opposed a slew of Armenian genocide resolutions in Congress. These relations produced goodwill and major projects, such as the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan pipeline. Turkey's military cooperation with Israel thrived."
Full Article Here.
(Ariel Cohen, "The Turkish Strategic Challenge After the July Elections," JCPA, August 10, 2007).
August 11, 2007:
Colombia's Defense Minister confirms that ex Israeli military personnel are helping his government combat guerilla organizations. In addition, the Colombian guerilla group FARC has stated that Israeli commandos, along with American and British forces, are operating in the jungles against drug lords and guerilla fighters
The Colombian weekly Semana: "A group of former Israeli military officials is counseling the military's top brass on intelligence issues."
(Beatrice Overlander, "Report: Israelis Fighting Guerillas in Colombia," YnetNews, August 10, 2007).
Colombia's Defense Minister confirms that ex Israeli military personnel are helping his government combat guerilla organizations. In addition, the Colombian guerilla group FARC has stated that Israeli commandos, along with American and British forces, are operating in the jungles against drug lords and guerilla fighters
The Colombian weekly Semana: "A group of former Israeli military officials is counseling the military's top brass on intelligence issues."
(Beatrice Overlander, "Report: Israelis Fighting Guerillas in Colombia," YnetNews, August 10, 2007).
August 10, 2007:
US Consul General Jacob Walles and USAID acting Director for the West Bank and Gaza Strip, David Harden, joins Abu Dis mayor, Ibrahim Jaffal and local dignitaries in highlighting infra-structure improvements to the Old City of Abu Dis (east of Jerusalem).
The improvements are part of city-wide rehabilitation efforts made possible by approximately $144,000 provided to the municipal council by USAID’s Office of Transition Initiatives (OTI). OTI’s assistance facilitated the stone tiling of the Old City’s unpaved alleys, installation of stone benches and trash receptacles and painting. City-wide improvements included the repair of sidewalks, mounting of 100 street signs, painting of crosswalks, placement of street reflectors, and new bus shelters near Al-Quds university in the city.
US Consul General Walles: "The new infra-structure not only beautifies the city, but also makes an important contribution to public safety. The community spirit that made these improvements possible, is the same kind of civic involvement that will prove instrumental in building the institutions necessary to create a viable Palestinian state."
("U.S. Officials Join Abu Dees Community in Celebrating US-Funded Infra-Structure Improvements," Ma'an News, August 10, 2007).
US Consul General Jacob Walles and USAID acting Director for the West Bank and Gaza Strip, David Harden, joins Abu Dis mayor, Ibrahim Jaffal and local dignitaries in highlighting infra-structure improvements to the Old City of Abu Dis (east of Jerusalem).
The improvements are part of city-wide rehabilitation efforts made possible by approximately $144,000 provided to the municipal council by USAID’s Office of Transition Initiatives (OTI). OTI’s assistance facilitated the stone tiling of the Old City’s unpaved alleys, installation of stone benches and trash receptacles and painting. City-wide improvements included the repair of sidewalks, mounting of 100 street signs, painting of crosswalks, placement of street reflectors, and new bus shelters near Al-Quds university in the city.
US Consul General Walles: "The new infra-structure not only beautifies the city, but also makes an important contribution to public safety. The community spirit that made these improvements possible, is the same kind of civic involvement that will prove instrumental in building the institutions necessary to create a viable Palestinian state."
("U.S. Officials Join Abu Dees Community in Celebrating US-Funded Infra-Structure Improvements," Ma'an News, August 10, 2007).
August 10, 2007:
More than 20 Palestinians in the Gaza Strip are wounded in violence sparked when Hamas forces arrest approximately 20 Fatah members and supporters. Spokesmen for both Fatah and Hamas confirm that at least four senior Fatah members were detained in the northern Gaza town of Beit Hanun.
("20 Wounded in Gaza Clashes After Top Fatah Officials Arrested," Ha'aretz, August 10, 2007).
More than 20 Palestinians in the Gaza Strip are wounded in violence sparked when Hamas forces arrest approximately 20 Fatah members and supporters. Spokesmen for both Fatah and Hamas confirm that at least four senior Fatah members were detained in the northern Gaza town of Beit Hanun.
("20 Wounded in Gaza Clashes After Top Fatah Officials Arrested," Ha'aretz, August 10, 2007).
August 10, 2007:
A Palestinian terrorist attepting to carry out an attack in Jerusalem's Old City is killed after he stole a weapon from a security guard, sparking an incident that wounded ten people - three moderately and seven seriously.
The incident took place in the Old City's Ateret Cohanim yeshiva (Christian Quarter).
(Jonathan Lis, "Ten Wounded in Attempted Attack in Old City of Jerusalem," Ha'aretz, August 10, 2007).
A Palestinian terrorist attepting to carry out an attack in Jerusalem's Old City is killed after he stole a weapon from a security guard, sparking an incident that wounded ten people - three moderately and seven seriously.
The incident took place in the Old City's Ateret Cohanim yeshiva (Christian Quarter).
(Jonathan Lis, "Ten Wounded in Attempted Attack in Old City of Jerusalem," Ha'aretz, August 10, 2007).
August 9, 2007:
Hamas officials establish a naval force to patrol the Gaza coastline. The nascent Hamas Navy, led by Jamil Al Dahashan, is armed with heavy machine guns and mortars deployed along the beaches.
A senior Hamas official: "I think they [Israel] know that Hamas fighters and the new naval force have in their possession some of the security forces' heavy artillery, seized during the takeover of the Gaza Strip."
("Hamas Forms 'Naval' Force to Protect the Gaza Strip's Shores," Ma'an News, August 9, 2007).
Hamas officials establish a naval force to patrol the Gaza coastline. The nascent Hamas Navy, led by Jamil Al Dahashan, is armed with heavy machine guns and mortars deployed along the beaches.
A senior Hamas official: "I think they [Israel] know that Hamas fighters and the new naval force have in their possession some of the security forces' heavy artillery, seized during the takeover of the Gaza Strip."
("Hamas Forms 'Naval' Force to Protect the Gaza Strip's Shores," Ma'an News, August 9, 2007).
August 9, 2007:
A Palestinian source confirms that the PA Finance Ministry mistakenly transferred an annual salary to 3,500 members of the Hamas Executive Force in the Gaza Strip.
"It was a mistake in the computer, as the Fatah employees were surprised that their salaries were not transferred to the banks in Gaza, but the salaries of the EF were."
Sabir Khalifa, Spokesperson of the Executive Force: "This is an official recognition from [Palestinian President] Abbas and Fayyad that the force is legitimate and legal."
("Fayyad's Government Mistakenly pays One-Year's Salary to Hamas' EF Members," Ma'an News, August 8, 2007).
A Palestinian source confirms that the PA Finance Ministry mistakenly transferred an annual salary to 3,500 members of the Hamas Executive Force in the Gaza Strip.
"It was a mistake in the computer, as the Fatah employees were surprised that their salaries were not transferred to the banks in Gaza, but the salaries of the EF were."
Sabir Khalifa, Spokesperson of the Executive Force: "This is an official recognition from [Palestinian President] Abbas and Fayyad that the force is legitimate and legal."
("Fayyad's Government Mistakenly pays One-Year's Salary to Hamas' EF Members," Ma'an News, August 8, 2007).
August 9, 2007:
Iranian Foreign Minister, Manouchehr Mottaki: [The US] "invaded Islamic countries after the 9/11 terrorist attacks claiming in a propaganda fuss that it was leading an organized war against terrorism...Has the US slogan on bringing stability to Afghanistan become materialized now? The US is fighting those who were originally raised by the US itself."
("FM Criticizes US Contradictory Approach After 9/11," IRNA, August 8, 2007).
Iranian Foreign Minister, Manouchehr Mottaki: [The US] "invaded Islamic countries after the 9/11 terrorist attacks claiming in a propaganda fuss that it was leading an organized war against terrorism...Has the US slogan on bringing stability to Afghanistan become materialized now? The US is fighting those who were originally raised by the US itself."
("FM Criticizes US Contradictory Approach After 9/11," IRNA, August 8, 2007).
August 9, 2007:
The ministerial committee charged with implementing the Winograd Commission's recommendations agrees to establish a national crisis center. The center, slated to be run by the NSC, will assume responsibility for staffing a (crisis) situation room and advising the PM. The center will also assist senior officials in disseminating communiqués to media outlets in Israel and abroad.
("Ministers Approve Establishment of National Crisis Center," YnetNews, August 8, 2007).
The ministerial committee charged with implementing the Winograd Commission's recommendations agrees to establish a national crisis center. The center, slated to be run by the NSC, will assume responsibility for staffing a (crisis) situation room and advising the PM. The center will also assist senior officials in disseminating communiqués to media outlets in Israel and abroad.
("Ministers Approve Establishment of National Crisis Center," YnetNews, August 8, 2007).
August 8-9, 2007:
Ha'aretz reports that DM Barak attributes great importance to speeding up the development of technological defenses against rocket fire aimed at the home front. Barak apparently considers the deployment of an effective anti-missile system a precondition for any significant withdrawal from the West Bank.
Barak envisions a multi-layered system capable of intercepting anything from Iran's long-range Shihab-3 missile to the short-range Qassam. Such a system could include an improved version of the Arrow anti-missile system, which is designed to intercept long-range missiles; the "Iron Dome" system designed by Rafael, (short-range missiles), and a laser-based platform.
According to Rafael, Israel's short-range rocket-based missile interception system (Iron Dome) will become operational in 18 months.
The Iron Dome system will utilize the IDF's early warning radar system to identify short-range missiles and rockets in flight. After a launch is confirmed, the system locates an incoming rocket via a dedicated radar (developed by IAI - Elta Systems). The system acquires the rocket as a target and launches a rocket to intercept the hostile missile mid-flight. It should be noted that the Iron Dome intercept rocket is designed to travel at a faster speed than a Qassam's 300 meters per second. Additionally, Iron Dome is designed to intercept the hostile rocket at the highest altitude possible, out of concern that it might carry a chemical or biological warhead.
A single Iron Dome launch costs between $30,000-$40,000.
(Amos Harel, "Barak: Missile Defense is Precondition for Pullout," Ha'aretz, August 8, 2007; Yuval Azoulay, "Missile Interception System to be Operational in 18 Months," Ha'aretz, August 9, 2007).
Ha'aretz reports that DM Barak attributes great importance to speeding up the development of technological defenses against rocket fire aimed at the home front. Barak apparently considers the deployment of an effective anti-missile system a precondition for any significant withdrawal from the West Bank.
Barak envisions a multi-layered system capable of intercepting anything from Iran's long-range Shihab-3 missile to the short-range Qassam. Such a system could include an improved version of the Arrow anti-missile system, which is designed to intercept long-range missiles; the "Iron Dome" system designed by Rafael, (short-range missiles), and a laser-based platform.
According to Rafael, Israel's short-range rocket-based missile interception system (Iron Dome) will become operational in 18 months.
The Iron Dome system will utilize the IDF's early warning radar system to identify short-range missiles and rockets in flight. After a launch is confirmed, the system locates an incoming rocket via a dedicated radar (developed by IAI - Elta Systems). The system acquires the rocket as a target and launches a rocket to intercept the hostile missile mid-flight. It should be noted that the Iron Dome intercept rocket is designed to travel at a faster speed than a Qassam's 300 meters per second. Additionally, Iron Dome is designed to intercept the hostile rocket at the highest altitude possible, out of concern that it might carry a chemical or biological warhead.
A single Iron Dome launch costs between $30,000-$40,000.
(Amos Harel, "Barak: Missile Defense is Precondition for Pullout," Ha'aretz, August 8, 2007; Yuval Azoulay, "Missile Interception System to be Operational in 18 Months," Ha'aretz, August 9, 2007).
August 8, 2007:
Norwegian Foreign Minister Jonas Gahr Store tells the Jerusalem Post that Norway intends to maintain contact with Hamas at the envoy level, but its ministers do not plan to meet with the Gaza government's representatives.
"Norway for 30 years has maintained a policy of keeping a broad network of contacts in this region...If my [envoys] come across representatives from different groups [including Hamas], they are still allowed to make contact. I think it is wrong not to maintain contact to get the full picture of the situation...My position on the charter of Hamas is very clear...It is very far away from the key principles that I associate with a modern political movement that tries to bring progress to its people."
(Tovah Lazaroff and Herb Keinon, "Norway's FM to 'Post': Our Envoys May Talk with Hamas," Jerusalem Post, August 8, 2007).
Norwegian Foreign Minister Jonas Gahr Store tells the Jerusalem Post that Norway intends to maintain contact with Hamas at the envoy level, but its ministers do not plan to meet with the Gaza government's representatives.
"Norway for 30 years has maintained a policy of keeping a broad network of contacts in this region...If my [envoys] come across representatives from different groups [including Hamas], they are still allowed to make contact. I think it is wrong not to maintain contact to get the full picture of the situation...My position on the charter of Hamas is very clear...It is very far away from the key principles that I associate with a modern political movement that tries to bring progress to its people."
(Tovah Lazaroff and Herb Keinon, "Norway's FM to 'Post': Our Envoys May Talk with Hamas," Jerusalem Post, August 8, 2007).
August 8, 2007:
- IDF forces (Golani Brigade) kill two Palestinian terrorists near the northern Gaza Strip border fence.
- IDF forces fire at two armed Palestinians approaching the fence near the Erez border crossing north of Karni, hitting one.
- An IDF soldier is lightly wounded in Nablus, as two explosive devices and gunshots were directed at IDF forces operating in the city.
- Palestinian terrorists hurl an explosive device and two Molotov cocktails near the village of Beit Omar (south of Bethlehem).
- The IDF detains 13 wanted Palestinians in the West Bank. Six are arrested in the Nablus area, and one in Jenin. Two gunmen are apprehended in the Ramallah sector and four in Bethlehem.
(Hanan Greenberg, "IDF Kills 2 Gunmen in Gaza," YnetNews, August 8, 2007; "IDF Kills 3 Palestinian Gunmen in Two Separate Gaza Incidents," Associated Press & Ha'aretz, August 8, 2007).
- IDF forces (Golani Brigade) kill two Palestinian terrorists near the northern Gaza Strip border fence.
- IDF forces fire at two armed Palestinians approaching the fence near the Erez border crossing north of Karni, hitting one.
- An IDF soldier is lightly wounded in Nablus, as two explosive devices and gunshots were directed at IDF forces operating in the city.
- Palestinian terrorists hurl an explosive device and two Molotov cocktails near the village of Beit Omar (south of Bethlehem).
- The IDF detains 13 wanted Palestinians in the West Bank. Six are arrested in the Nablus area, and one in Jenin. Two gunmen are apprehended in the Ramallah sector and four in Bethlehem.
(Hanan Greenberg, "IDF Kills 2 Gunmen in Gaza," YnetNews, August 8, 2007; "IDF Kills 3 Palestinian Gunmen in Two Separate Gaza Incidents," Associated Press & Ha'aretz, August 8, 2007).
August 8, 2007:
"The declared policy of Hamas to provide sanctuary to any jihadi fighter invites additional terrorist groups associated with al-Qaeda to plant themselves in the Gaza Strip. In July, a video clip appeared on websites identifying with al-Qaeda that documented military exercises by a new group, Jaish al-Umma (the Army of the Nation), which was presented as yet another al-Qaeda branch. In the video clip at least twenty-one operatives can be identified, dressed in black with their faces covered. They are exercising in sandy Gaza terrain, apparently in the area of the Israeli settlements that were withdrawn in August 2005 in the context of the Gaza disengagement.
The maneuvers included marching in formation, crawling under barbed wire, jumping through flames, sniper fire, and use of rocket-propelled grenades (RPG). The area where this transpired appeared to be a regular training facility and the performance of the al-Qaeda recruits was high. The exercises were conducted in broad daylight and it does not seem that there was any effort to hide these activities from Hamas. The leader of the group, whose face was covered, wore civilian clothing and a hat resembling the head covering of the late leader of al-Qaeda in Iraq, Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, which has become a symbol in Gaza for identifying with al-Qaeda."
(Lt. Col. (res.) Jonathan Dahoah-Halevi, "The Army of the Nation - Another Al-Qaeda Affiliate in the Gaza Strip," JCPA, August 7, 2007).
"The declared policy of Hamas to provide sanctuary to any jihadi fighter invites additional terrorist groups associated with al-Qaeda to plant themselves in the Gaza Strip. In July, a video clip appeared on websites identifying with al-Qaeda that documented military exercises by a new group, Jaish al-Umma (the Army of the Nation), which was presented as yet another al-Qaeda branch. In the video clip at least twenty-one operatives can be identified, dressed in black with their faces covered. They are exercising in sandy Gaza terrain, apparently in the area of the Israeli settlements that were withdrawn in August 2005 in the context of the Gaza disengagement.
The maneuvers included marching in formation, crawling under barbed wire, jumping through flames, sniper fire, and use of rocket-propelled grenades (RPG). The area where this transpired appeared to be a regular training facility and the performance of the al-Qaeda recruits was high. The exercises were conducted in broad daylight and it does not seem that there was any effort to hide these activities from Hamas. The leader of the group, whose face was covered, wore civilian clothing and a hat resembling the head covering of the late leader of al-Qaeda in Iraq, Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, which has become a symbol in Gaza for identifying with al-Qaeda."
(Lt. Col. (res.) Jonathan Dahoah-Halevi, "The Army of the Nation - Another Al-Qaeda Affiliate in the Gaza Strip," JCPA, August 7, 2007).
August 8, 2007:
"A senior Iranian nuclear official said on Tuesday that Iran would never accept any demand for suspension which would mean a temporary halt to its nuclear activities.
'We have announced clearly that we will never accept suspension meaning temporary halt to our nuclear activities. And we will never back down from our position in that respect,' said Acting Secretary of Supreme National Security Council Abdol-Reza Rahmani Fazli.
Fazli went on to say, 'We have repeatedly announced that while continuing our legal activities and cooperation with the IAEA we are ready to reach agreement in the talks.'
He said here has been no diversion in Iran's activities: 'Iran's cooperation with the IAEA is fully legal. As an NPT signatory and IAEA member, we have had any kind of cooperation. The IAEA inspections and the IAEA Chief's reports indicate no diversion in Iran's legal activities.'"
("Official: Iran Not to Accept Demand for Suspension," IRNA, August 7, 2007).
"A senior Iranian nuclear official said on Tuesday that Iran would never accept any demand for suspension which would mean a temporary halt to its nuclear activities.
'We have announced clearly that we will never accept suspension meaning temporary halt to our nuclear activities. And we will never back down from our position in that respect,' said Acting Secretary of Supreme National Security Council Abdol-Reza Rahmani Fazli.
Fazli went on to say, 'We have repeatedly announced that while continuing our legal activities and cooperation with the IAEA we are ready to reach agreement in the talks.'
He said here has been no diversion in Iran's activities: 'Iran's cooperation with the IAEA is fully legal. As an NPT signatory and IAEA member, we have had any kind of cooperation. The IAEA inspections and the IAEA Chief's reports indicate no diversion in Iran's legal activities.'"
("Official: Iran Not to Accept Demand for Suspension," IRNA, August 7, 2007).
August 7, 2007:
- The An Nasser Salah Ad Din Brigades (PRC) claims responsibility for launching a homemade projectile at the Israeli town of Sderot. The Brigades also claim joint responsibility with the Al Aqsa Brigades (Fatah) for the shelling (three 80mm mortar shells) of an IDF military post at the Karni Crossing, along the Gaza Strip border.
- Islamic Jihad claims responsibility for sniping at four Israeli soldiers, two of whom were at Kisufim Crossing, one at the military base in Kisufim and another at Al Farahin military base, all along eastern border of the Gaza Strip. In addition, the terrorist group fired two mortars at an IDF post near Kisufim.
("Islamic Jihad Combatants Shell Israeli targets and snipers shoot four soldiers," Ma'an News, August 7, 2007; "Palestinian Brigades Shell Israeli Targets," Ma'an News).
- The An Nasser Salah Ad Din Brigades (PRC) claims responsibility for launching a homemade projectile at the Israeli town of Sderot. The Brigades also claim joint responsibility with the Al Aqsa Brigades (Fatah) for the shelling (three 80mm mortar shells) of an IDF military post at the Karni Crossing, along the Gaza Strip border.
- Islamic Jihad claims responsibility for sniping at four Israeli soldiers, two of whom were at Kisufim Crossing, one at the military base in Kisufim and another at Al Farahin military base, all along eastern border of the Gaza Strip. In addition, the terrorist group fired two mortars at an IDF post near Kisufim.
("Islamic Jihad Combatants Shell Israeli targets and snipers shoot four soldiers," Ma'an News, August 7, 2007; "Palestinian Brigades Shell Israeli Targets," Ma'an News).
August 7, 2007:
"Israel Military Industries (IMI) has completed the development of the Urban Fighter - an upgraded, up-armoured M113 armoured personnel carrier (APC) designed for urban warfare and low-intensity conflict scenarios. The IDF received a first prototype for evaluation in June and will examine its suitability to replace less-protected vehicles for operations in the West Bank and Gaza."
Full Story Here.
("Israel Finishes Urban Fighter Development," Jane's, August 6, 2007).
"Israel Military Industries (IMI) has completed the development of the Urban Fighter - an upgraded, up-armoured M113 armoured personnel carrier (APC) designed for urban warfare and low-intensity conflict scenarios. The IDF received a first prototype for evaluation in June and will examine its suitability to replace less-protected vehicles for operations in the West Bank and Gaza."
Full Story Here.
("Israel Finishes Urban Fighter Development," Jane's, August 6, 2007).
August 7, 2007:
Elbit Systems Ltd. wins three contracts worth an aggregate $163 million for the supply of tank and artillery systems upgrades for customers in three Asian countries.
The company is slated to upgrade fire control, command and control systems for tanks and artillery systems.
Elbit Systems president and CEO Joseph Ackerman: "Recent land systems orders announced by the company, including the sale of turrets to Romania and Slovenia, position Elbit Systems as one of the leading companies in the field of land systems. I believe the new orders will serve as a springboard for additional orders from these customers and other customers worldwide."
(Adi Ben-Israel, "Elbit Systems Wins 3 Asian Contracts," Globes, August 7, 2007).
Elbit Systems Ltd. wins three contracts worth an aggregate $163 million for the supply of tank and artillery systems upgrades for customers in three Asian countries.
The company is slated to upgrade fire control, command and control systems for tanks and artillery systems.
Elbit Systems president and CEO Joseph Ackerman: "Recent land systems orders announced by the company, including the sale of turrets to Romania and Slovenia, position Elbit Systems as one of the leading companies in the field of land systems. I believe the new orders will serve as a springboard for additional orders from these customers and other customers worldwide."
(Adi Ben-Israel, "Elbit Systems Wins 3 Asian Contracts," Globes, August 7, 2007).
August 7, 2007:
A rocket fired by Palestinian terrorists impacts in the northern Gaza Strip village of Beit Lahiya, killing an eight-year-old boy, his six-year-old sister, and injuring five other children.
Palestinian Centre for Human Rights: "PCHR regrets the death of these two children, and calls upon the Palestinian National Authority to immediately investigate the circumstances that led to their death. The Centre reiterates the call to the Attorney-General and the civilian police to resume their work in the Gaza Strip in order to uphold people's rights."
(Avi Issacharoff, "Qassam Rocket Fired at Israel Kills Two Children in Gaza Strip," Ha'aretz, August 7, 2007; "2 Children Killed in an Explosion in Beit Hanoun," PCHR, August 7, 2007).
A rocket fired by Palestinian terrorists impacts in the northern Gaza Strip village of Beit Lahiya, killing an eight-year-old boy, his six-year-old sister, and injuring five other children.
Palestinian Centre for Human Rights: "PCHR regrets the death of these two children, and calls upon the Palestinian National Authority to immediately investigate the circumstances that led to their death. The Centre reiterates the call to the Attorney-General and the civilian police to resume their work in the Gaza Strip in order to uphold people's rights."
(Avi Issacharoff, "Qassam Rocket Fired at Israel Kills Two Children in Gaza Strip," Ha'aretz, August 7, 2007; "2 Children Killed in an Explosion in Beit Hanoun," PCHR, August 7, 2007).
August 7, 2007:
Israeli security officials warn citizens traveling in Egypt, Jordan and other Muslim countries to leave immediately due to a "concrete and severe" threat of terror attacks.
("Israel Warns Against Travel in Mideast," Associated Press, August 7, 2007).
Israeli security officials warn citizens traveling in Egypt, Jordan and other Muslim countries to leave immediately due to a "concrete and severe" threat of terror attacks.
("Israel Warns Against Travel in Mideast," Associated Press, August 7, 2007).
August 7, 2007:
The US has lost track of approximately 190,000 weapons issued to Iraqi security forces since 2003, some of which will have ended up in the hands of terrorists, including AK-47 rifles, pistols, body armour and helmets.
- 110,000 AK-47s
- 80,000 pistols
- 135,000 bits of armour
Note: In August 2005, WeaponSurvey reported that US officials were unable to account for thousands of M-16 rifles given to the Palestinian Authority during the 1990s.
(Ewen MacAskill, "The US Arsenal Lost in Iraq," The Guardian, August 6, 2007; "U.S. Can't Account for its Weapons in Gaza," GeoStrategyDirect, August 6, 2005).
The US has lost track of approximately 190,000 weapons issued to Iraqi security forces since 2003, some of which will have ended up in the hands of terrorists, including AK-47 rifles, pistols, body armour and helmets.
- 110,000 AK-47s
- 80,000 pistols
- 135,000 bits of armour
Note: In August 2005, WeaponSurvey reported that US officials were unable to account for thousands of M-16 rifles given to the Palestinian Authority during the 1990s.
(Ewen MacAskill, "The US Arsenal Lost in Iraq," The Guardian, August 6, 2007; "U.S. Can't Account for its Weapons in Gaza," GeoStrategyDirect, August 6, 2005).
August 6, 2007:
"The international oil companies have made dlrs 10 billion in investment in Iranian oil and gas sectors in the past several years, member of Majlis Presiding Board Ahmad Nejabat said on Monday.
'Despite the US pressure, European oil companies have been involved in developing Iranian oil industry.'
He said that Total of France, Royal Dutch/Shell and other international oil companies have made large investment in developing the twelfth and 13th stages of South Pars gas field."
("Oil Majors Have Made Dlrs 10 Billion Investment in Iran," IRNA, August 6, 2007).
"The international oil companies have made dlrs 10 billion in investment in Iranian oil and gas sectors in the past several years, member of Majlis Presiding Board Ahmad Nejabat said on Monday.
'Despite the US pressure, European oil companies have been involved in developing Iranian oil industry.'
He said that Total of France, Royal Dutch/Shell and other international oil companies have made large investment in developing the twelfth and 13th stages of South Pars gas field."
("Oil Majors Have Made Dlrs 10 Billion Investment in Iran," IRNA, August 6, 2007).
August 6, 2007:
Palestinian terrrorists in northern Gaza fire a rocket at a Sderot kindergarten.
The Al-Quds Brigades (Islamic Jihad) claims responsibility for the attack, which damaged nearby buildings, including two other kindergartens and a public elementary school.
Michael Amsalem, a Regional Council member and neighborhood resident: "We heard the Color Red warning system and, luckily, managed to get into our protected room in time. The impact was very loud. All the buildings in the area shook...The rocket fell in a schoolyard and just as easily could have landed on one of the porches of the homes across the street. It's simply a miracle it landed where it did."
(Shmulik Hadad, "Qassam Lands in Sderot Kindergarten," YnetNews, August 6, 2007).
Palestinian terrrorists in northern Gaza fire a rocket at a Sderot kindergarten.
The Al-Quds Brigades (Islamic Jihad) claims responsibility for the attack, which damaged nearby buildings, including two other kindergartens and a public elementary school.
Michael Amsalem, a Regional Council member and neighborhood resident: "We heard the Color Red warning system and, luckily, managed to get into our protected room in time. The impact was very loud. All the buildings in the area shook...The rocket fell in a schoolyard and just as easily could have landed on one of the porches of the homes across the street. It's simply a miracle it landed where it did."
(Shmulik Hadad, "Qassam Lands in Sderot Kindergarten," YnetNews, August 6, 2007).
August 6, 2007:
- Norwegian Foreign Minister Jonas Gar Store notes that his country has severed all ties with Hamas established during the Palestinian Authority unity government. According to Store, the Norwegian government now deals exclusively with PA Chairman Mahmoud Abbas of Fatah and the PA Prime Minister Salam Fayad.
- Russian Foreign Minsiter Sergei Lavrov confirms Moscow is holding talks with Hamas.
"It's important to hold such talks and countries that do not do so are wrong..."
(Avi Issacharoff, "Russia Confirms Hamas Officials Invited to Moscow for Talks," Ha'aretz, August 6, 2007; Barak Ravid, "Norway FM to Peres: Our Contact With Hamas Has Been Severed," Ha'aretz, August 6, 2007).
- Norwegian Foreign Minister Jonas Gar Store notes that his country has severed all ties with Hamas established during the Palestinian Authority unity government. According to Store, the Norwegian government now deals exclusively with PA Chairman Mahmoud Abbas of Fatah and the PA Prime Minister Salam Fayad.
- Russian Foreign Minsiter Sergei Lavrov confirms Moscow is holding talks with Hamas.
"It's important to hold such talks and countries that do not do so are wrong..."
(Avi Issacharoff, "Russia Confirms Hamas Officials Invited to Moscow for Talks," Ha'aretz, August 6, 2007; Barak Ravid, "Norway FM to Peres: Our Contact With Hamas Has Been Severed," Ha'aretz, August 6, 2007).
August 6, 2007:
Russia plans to utilize the Syrian Tartus and Latakia ports as permanent bases for the Russian Navy in the Mediterranean basin.
Russian Navy commander, Admiral Vladimir Masorin: "Being present in the Mediterranean is very important for our Navy in the Black Sea..."
Israeli officials assess that a Russian base in Syria would help Moscow observe new weapon systems and the flow of information through channels used by the army and the defense establishment.
(Aryeh Egozi, Alex Fishman, "Russian Navy to Operate from Syria," YnetNews, August 6, 2007).
Russia plans to utilize the Syrian Tartus and Latakia ports as permanent bases for the Russian Navy in the Mediterranean basin.
Russian Navy commander, Admiral Vladimir Masorin: "Being present in the Mediterranean is very important for our Navy in the Black Sea..."
Israeli officials assess that a Russian base in Syria would help Moscow observe new weapon systems and the flow of information through channels used by the army and the defense establishment.
(Aryeh Egozi, Alex Fishman, "Russian Navy to Operate from Syria," YnetNews, August 6, 2007).
August 6, 2007:
"Hamas Movement held PA chief Mahmoud Abbas fully responsible for 810 attacks against the Movement since mid June till today and urged him to check the rampant security, political and educational chaos in the West Bank."
("Hamas Asks Abbas to Halt his War Against It," Ezzedeen Al-Qassam Brigades [Hamas] Website, August 6, 2007).
"Hamas Movement held PA chief Mahmoud Abbas fully responsible for 810 attacks against the Movement since mid June till today and urged him to check the rampant security, political and educational chaos in the West Bank."
("Hamas Asks Abbas to Halt his War Against It," Ezzedeen Al-Qassam Brigades [Hamas] Website, August 6, 2007).
August 6, 2007:
- The head of the Research Division at IDF Military Intelligence, Brig.-Gen. Yossi Baidatz, assesses that the West Bank will soon become an "area of violent clashes" between Hamas and Fatah.
- PA Prime Minister Salam Fayad claims that the Palestinian Authority's security organizations are unable "to impose law and order in the West Bank at this time."
("'Fatah-Hamas clashes likely in W. Bank,'" Jerusalem Post, August 5, 2007; Avi Issacharoff and Barak Ravid, "Fayad: PA Not Ready to Assume Control of Security in West Bank," Ha'aretz, August 6, 2006).
- The head of the Research Division at IDF Military Intelligence, Brig.-Gen. Yossi Baidatz, assesses that the West Bank will soon become an "area of violent clashes" between Hamas and Fatah.
- PA Prime Minister Salam Fayad claims that the Palestinian Authority's security organizations are unable "to impose law and order in the West Bank at this time."
("'Fatah-Hamas clashes likely in W. Bank,'" Jerusalem Post, August 5, 2007; Avi Issacharoff and Barak Ravid, "Fayad: PA Not Ready to Assume Control of Security in West Bank," Ha'aretz, August 6, 2006).
August 5, 2007:
Egyptian police seize 500 kilograms (1,102 pounds) of explosives buried near a central desert village in the Sinai Peninsula.
According to Capt. Mohammed Badr of the northern Sinai police force, a tip from local Bedouins regarding alleged drug smuggling instead led officials to discover the explosives packed in 10 plastic sacks near the Gifgafa village, 80 kilometers (50 miles) south of El-Arish.
("Egypt Seizes Large Cache of Explosives in Central Sinai," Associated Press, August 5, 2007).
Egyptian police seize 500 kilograms (1,102 pounds) of explosives buried near a central desert village in the Sinai Peninsula.
According to Capt. Mohammed Badr of the northern Sinai police force, a tip from local Bedouins regarding alleged drug smuggling instead led officials to discover the explosives packed in 10 plastic sacks near the Gifgafa village, 80 kilometers (50 miles) south of El-Arish.
("Egypt Seizes Large Cache of Explosives in Central Sinai," Associated Press, August 5, 2007).
August 5, 2007:
The IAF thwarts a massive terror attack by targeting two vehicles near the southern Gaza Strip's border with Egypt. The strike kills two Palestinians, including an Islamic Jihad operative.
According to the army, one of the vehicles was filled with explosive devices, including suicide bomb belts. The group was apparently en route to carry out a huge terror attack against Israelis.
("IDF: Gaza Air Strike Foiled Massive Terrorist Attack," Jerusalem Post, August 5, 2007).
The IAF thwarts a massive terror attack by targeting two vehicles near the southern Gaza Strip's border with Egypt. The strike kills two Palestinians, including an Islamic Jihad operative.
According to the army, one of the vehicles was filled with explosive devices, including suicide bomb belts. The group was apparently en route to carry out a huge terror attack against Israelis.
("IDF: Gaza Air Strike Foiled Massive Terrorist Attack," Jerusalem Post, August 5, 2007).
August 4, 2007:
"Foreign Minister Manouchehr Mottaki said Iran has no limitation on developing ties and economic cooperation with Kyrgyzstan.
According to Foreign Ministry Media Department report on Saturday, Mottaki, in a ceremony in which he was presented a copy of credentials of Kyrgyz new Ambassador to Tehran M.Khan Sherim Kulev, said 'In the field of trade we should double our efforts to execute large and small plans and joint investment between the two countries.'
Concerning Shanghai Summit meeting in Bishkek, the foreign minister said, 'Member states of the organization have enough potentials to assist each other in the fields of economic, political and security cooperation.'
The new Kyrgyz ambassador to Tehran, by expressing pleasure with his mission in Iran added, 'Kyrgyzstan is interested to expand ties with Iran in all fields.'"
("Mottaki: No Limitation on Economic Cooperation with Kyrgyzstan," IRNA, August 4, 2007).
"Foreign Minister Manouchehr Mottaki said Iran has no limitation on developing ties and economic cooperation with Kyrgyzstan.
According to Foreign Ministry Media Department report on Saturday, Mottaki, in a ceremony in which he was presented a copy of credentials of Kyrgyz new Ambassador to Tehran M.Khan Sherim Kulev, said 'In the field of trade we should double our efforts to execute large and small plans and joint investment between the two countries.'
Concerning Shanghai Summit meeting in Bishkek, the foreign minister said, 'Member states of the organization have enough potentials to assist each other in the fields of economic, political and security cooperation.'
The new Kyrgyz ambassador to Tehran, by expressing pleasure with his mission in Iran added, 'Kyrgyzstan is interested to expand ties with Iran in all fields.'"
("Mottaki: No Limitation on Economic Cooperation with Kyrgyzstan," IRNA, August 4, 2007).
August 4, 2007:
- At least one Islamic Jihad terrorist is killed and several other Palestinians wounded in two separate IAF strikes in the Gaza Strip. An IDF spokeswoman in Tel Aviv confirms a strike in the southern Gaza Strip.
- Palestinian terrorists fire two rockets at Sderot.
(Avi Issacharoff, "At Least One Jihad Militant Dead in IAF Gaza Strike," Ha'aretz, August 4, 2007).
- At least one Islamic Jihad terrorist is killed and several other Palestinians wounded in two separate IAF strikes in the Gaza Strip. An IDF spokeswoman in Tel Aviv confirms a strike in the southern Gaza Strip.
- Palestinian terrorists fire two rockets at Sderot.
(Avi Issacharoff, "At Least One Jihad Militant Dead in IAF Gaza Strike," Ha'aretz, August 4, 2007).
August 3, 2007:
The Israeli MoD will help finance the construction of bomb shelters at the Ziv Medical Center in Safed.
Ziv Medical Center Friends Association Chairman: "Deputy Defense Minister Matan Vilna'i, who was put in charge of the handling of the home front, noted that he would focus on the construction of bomb shelters and reinforced areas for the Galilee's residents...Today only the new emergency room is fortified. The other departments, like the delivery rooms, the intensive care unit, and the pediatric unit, are exposed to fire and deadly hits like the ones we experienced during the last war."
(Hagai Einav, "'Defense Ministry to Fortify Safed Hospital'," YnetNews, August 3, 2007).
The Israeli MoD will help finance the construction of bomb shelters at the Ziv Medical Center in Safed.
Ziv Medical Center Friends Association Chairman: "Deputy Defense Minister Matan Vilna'i, who was put in charge of the handling of the home front, noted that he would focus on the construction of bomb shelters and reinforced areas for the Galilee's residents...Today only the new emergency room is fortified. The other departments, like the delivery rooms, the intensive care unit, and the pediatric unit, are exposed to fire and deadly hits like the ones we experienced during the last war."
(Hagai Einav, "'Defense Ministry to Fortify Safed Hospital'," YnetNews, August 3, 2007).
August 3, 2007:
Israeli security forces detain two Palestinians who had infiltrated into Israel.
The Palestinians are arrested in Tira and two other (Palestinians) suspected of aiding their infiltration are apprehended in Bat Yam. A high alert level raised by police is lifted shortly after their arrests.
("Security Forces Nab Two Palestinian Infiltrators," Jerusalem Post, August 3, 2007).
Israeli security forces detain two Palestinians who had infiltrated into Israel.
The Palestinians are arrested in Tira and two other (Palestinians) suspected of aiding their infiltration are apprehended in Bat Yam. A high alert level raised by police is lifted shortly after their arrests.
("Security Forces Nab Two Palestinian Infiltrators," Jerusalem Post, August 3, 2007).
August 3, 2007:
Two Sderot residents are lightly wounded by rockets fired from the Gaza Strip.
A total of three rockets are fired into the western Negev. Two impact in Sderot, where one damages a number of homes. The other lands on a kibbutz.
("Two Sderot Residents Lightly Wounded in Qassam Attack," Associated Press & Ha'aretz, August 3, 2007).
Two Sderot residents are lightly wounded by rockets fired from the Gaza Strip.
A total of three rockets are fired into the western Negev. Two impact in Sderot, where one damages a number of homes. The other lands on a kibbutz.
("Two Sderot Residents Lightly Wounded in Qassam Attack," Associated Press & Ha'aretz, August 3, 2007).
August 3, 2007:
"Iran's Ambassador to Athens Mehdi Mohtashami conferred with Greek Minister of Development Dimitrios Sioufas on expansion of cooperation between the two countries. At the meeting, the Greek minister voiced willingness for expansion of ties with Iran, adding that the Greek people and government consider themselves as supporter of the Iranian people in Europe.
'There are deeply rooted cultural, political and historical ties between Iran and Greece which is a source of pride for us.'
He [also] expressed the hope that construction of Iran's gas pipeline vi[a] Gree[ce] would accelerate transfer of Iranian gas to Europe."
("Iran, Greece Set to Broaden Mutual Ties in Energy Sector," IRNA, August 3, 2007).
"Iran's Ambassador to Athens Mehdi Mohtashami conferred with Greek Minister of Development Dimitrios Sioufas on expansion of cooperation between the two countries. At the meeting, the Greek minister voiced willingness for expansion of ties with Iran, adding that the Greek people and government consider themselves as supporter of the Iranian people in Europe.
'There are deeply rooted cultural, political and historical ties between Iran and Greece which is a source of pride for us.'
He [also] expressed the hope that construction of Iran's gas pipeline vi[a] Gree[ce] would accelerate transfer of Iranian gas to Europe."
("Iran, Greece Set to Broaden Mutual Ties in Energy Sector," IRNA, August 3, 2007).
August 3, 2007:
IDF forces shoot and kill Read Abu Ads, the Islamic Jihad commander in Nablus.
An IDF Spokesperson tells The Associated Press that soldiers surrounded a house and demanded that the militant surrender. Instead, he tried to escape, at which point soldiers shot him.
IDF Spokesperson's Office:
Overnight, August 2nd 2007, during a joint IDF and ISA activity in the old-city of Nablus, the head of the Islamic Jihad terror organization in the Balata R.C., Ra'ed Ades, was killed. The armed terrorist was shot while attempting to escape the arresting IDF forces.
His assistant, Ezzedine Bassem Azett Hallawa, a 24 year old operative of the organization from the old-city, was arrested. The two have been operating to execute suicide bombings into Israel. During the operation different weapons were found in the structure where the wanted operatives were staying: 15 pipe-bombs inside a bag, an M-16 rifle and a handgun.
Ra'ed Ali Hassan Ades, 28, was operating under the direction of the Islamic Jihad headquarters in Syria. In March of this year, Sharif Nazer confessed during his investigation, after being arrested, that he was sent by Ades to carry out a suicide bombing in Israel.
His arrest prevented the deadly attack from taking place.
("IDF Soldiers Kill Islamic Jihad Commander in West Bank," Associated Press, August 3, 2007; "Background Information: Senior Islamic Jihad Terrorist in Nablus Killed Overnight," IDF Spokesperson's Office, August 3, 2007).
IDF forces shoot and kill Read Abu Ads, the Islamic Jihad commander in Nablus.
An IDF Spokesperson tells The Associated Press that soldiers surrounded a house and demanded that the militant surrender. Instead, he tried to escape, at which point soldiers shot him.
IDF Spokesperson's Office:
Overnight, August 2nd 2007, during a joint IDF and ISA activity in the old-city of Nablus, the head of the Islamic Jihad terror organization in the Balata R.C., Ra'ed Ades, was killed. The armed terrorist was shot while attempting to escape the arresting IDF forces.
His assistant, Ezzedine Bassem Azett Hallawa, a 24 year old operative of the organization from the old-city, was arrested. The two have been operating to execute suicide bombings into Israel. During the operation different weapons were found in the structure where the wanted operatives were staying: 15 pipe-bombs inside a bag, an M-16 rifle and a handgun.
Ra'ed Ali Hassan Ades, 28, was operating under the direction of the Islamic Jihad headquarters in Syria. In March of this year, Sharif Nazer confessed during his investigation, after being arrested, that he was sent by Ades to carry out a suicide bombing in Israel.
His arrest prevented the deadly attack from taking place.
("IDF Soldiers Kill Islamic Jihad Commander in West Bank," Associated Press, August 3, 2007; "Background Information: Senior Islamic Jihad Terrorist in Nablus Killed Overnight," IDF Spokesperson's Office, August 3, 2007).
August 3, 2007:
A Golani reconnaissance regiment enters Beit Lahiya in the northern Gaza Strip and takes over several houses. Two Hamas operatives are killed during an exchange of fire with the troops. Several hours after the soldiers leave the structures (on Wednesday), an explosion destroys a floor of the house they had previously controlled.
Ham
A Golani reconnaissance regiment enters Beit Lahiya in the northern Gaza Strip and takes over several houses. Two Hamas operatives are killed during an exchange of fire with the troops. Several hours after the soldiers leave the structures (on Wednesday), an explosion destroys a floor of the house they had previously controlled.
Ham