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February 28, 2007:
Five Rockets Fired at Israeli Positions Palestinian Islamic Jihad operatives fire five rockets at Israeli positions. Islamic Jihad spokesman (Gaza Strip), Abu Ahmad: "Their blood will be the fuel of our holy battle." ("5 Kassams Fired From Gaza; No Wounded," Jerusalem Post, February 28, 2007). February 28, 2007:
Islamic Jihad Terrorists Killed in Jenin In a joint ISA, IDF and special Border Police force arrest operation earlier this morning in Jenin, two senior Palestinian Islamic Jihad terrorists and their assistant were killed. Security forces arrived to arrest the wanted men when one of them, Ashraf Saadi, opened fire at the forces, lightly injuring a Border Policeman. In the ensuing exchanges of fire the three wanted men were killed. Ashraf Mahmoud Nafaa Saadi, a 29-year old resident of the Jenin refugee camp, had been wanted by security forces for a significant period of time. Saadi was responsible for many shooting and bombing attacks in the region and cooperated with senior members of Islamic Jihad involved in the deadly suicide bombing attacks in Israel during 2005-2006. Muhammad Ibrahim Mahmoud Ahmad "Abu-Nassa", a 34-year old resident of the Jenin refugee camp, was one of the senior commanders of Islamic Jihad in the Jenin refugee camp. Abu-Nassa was involved in the transferring of funds to Islamic Jihad terror cells. In the past Abu-Nassa served as a close assistant to Husam Jaradat, who headed Islamic Jihad's activities in Jenin until his death in August 2006. Al'aa Rafik Da'ud Jabali, served as an assistant to the two. Last week this very infrastructure dispatched Ummar Abu Roub to carry out a suicide bombing in Tel Aviv, an attack which was thwarted by security forces. The infrastructure continues to operate via different channels to carry out attacks against Israeli civilians and security forces. ("Background Information: Islamic Jihad Terrorists Killed in Jenin," IDF Spokesperson's Office, February 28, 2007). February 28, 2007:
Hamas: All the land of Palestine [from the sea to the river] belongs to the Palestinians and Israel is the enemy." Hamas spokesman Fauzi Barhum: "Hamas has decided to show a political horizon, but our position is clear. All the land of Palestine [from the sea to the river] belongs to the Palestinians and Israel is the enemy. However, our political horizon offers a hudna for 15-20 years, in return for the establishment of a Palestinian state in the 1967 borders, the return of the refugees and the release of the prisoners." (Avi Issacharoff and Amiram Barkat, "Meshal in Russia: Putin Will Try to Lift PA Embargo," Ha'aretz, February 27, 2007). February 27, 2007:
Anti-Terror Operations in Nablus Continues The Israel Defense Forces are continuing in their efforts to foil the terrorist infrastructure which has beinfited from renewed momentum in Nablus. The operation, codenamed "Warm Winter," yielded the discovery of a warehouse used to manufacture explosive devices. IDF soldiers found gas tanks as well as significant quantities of spray chemicals inside the warehouse on Saturday morning. The next evening, two additional weapons laboratories were found. During the operation, Palestinian assailants hurled Molotov cocktails at the soldiers near the scene of the two laboratories. "In recent weeks, we received information about extensive terrorist activity in the city of Nablus," said the commander of the IDF Judea and Samaria Division, Brigadier-General Yaron Golan. "In just the last six months, nine explosive devices which were manufactured in this city were aimed at Israeli citizens. In 2006, 117 Palestinian youths were arrested after we had received information stating that they had intended to infiltrate Israeli territory and blow themselves up in our cities. This is a huge number, and it represents a majority of the 190 total detainees that were captured by the IDF over the course of last year." The youths who were apprehended in Nablus belong to various terrorist organizations, among them the Palestinian Islamic Jihad, the Tanzim, and the "Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestinian." "There's no doubt that as long as the operation continues, we will expose more weapons, bomb labs, and various parts of the terrorist infrastructure of the terrorist groups in the city, which will undoubtedly harm the terrorists' capability to execute attacks," Brigadier-General Golan said. The data which Brigadier-General Golan submitted along with intelligence that has been received recently compelled the authorities to initiate what is described as "a concentrated effort in the thwarting of the widespread terrorist infrastructure in the city." Brigadier-General Golan estimates the duration of the operation will be determined by periodic assessments of the situation, although it is anticipated to last a number of days. The IDF has imposed a curfew in the Kasbah region, near Nablus' Old City. The curfew, whose purpose is to prevent harming residents who live nearby, will remain in effect as long as IDF troops are operating in the area. ("Anti-Terror Operations in Nablus Continue," IDF Spokesperson's Office, February 27, 2007). February 26, 2007:
IDF Troops Uncover Third Explosives Factory in Nablus raid IDF forces raid an explosives laboratory in the West Bank city of Nablus. The laboratory contains two gas balloons (canisters), pipe bombs, explosives, computers and electrical equipment. (Avi Issacharoff, "IDF Troops Uncover Third Explosives Factory in Nablus Raid," Ha'aretz, February 26, 2007). February 26, 2007:
Israeli Civilian Found Murdered Near Hebron Israeli security forces find the body of an Israeli civilian near Beit Omar, north of the West Bank city of Hebron. The man, identified as 42-year-old Bat Ayin resident Erez Levanon, apparently died as a result of repeated stab wounds. Two Palestinian suspects are apprehended in connection with the murder. The Palestinian Islamic Jihad terrorist group claims responsibility for the attack. (Amos Harel and Avi Issacharoff, "Missing Israeli Man Found Murdered Near Hebron," Ha'aretz, February 24, 2007; Amos Harel and Avi Issacharoff, "Two Palestinians Arrested For Murder of Israeli in West Bank," Ha'aretz, February 26, 2007; "Islamic Jihad Claims Responsibility for Levanon," IsraelNationalNews, February 26, 2007). February 25, 2007:
Operation Hot Winter Continues Three IDF infantry battalions operate in Nablus. The city is sealed off as the soldiers go house-to-house in search of terror suspects. The Haruv Battalion, together with troops from the Golani and Nahal Brigades, enter the city in a convoy of 80 jeeps, armored vehicles and bulldozers. The operation is focusing on Nablus's Old City, or Casbah, a densely populated area of narrow alleyways, apartment buildings and markets. Approximately 50,000 people are placed under curfew. IDF forces take over local television and radio stations, broadcasting orders to remain indoors and warning the clampdown would remain in effect for several days, residents said. The army notes the road closures and curfew are necessary to prevent civilian casualties. Sporadic clashes erupt as troops raid two major bomb laboratories containing five pipe bombs, a LAW missile, a large roadside bomb and four packs of fertilizer used for manufacturing explosives. Earlier in the day, two soldiers were lightly wounded when a bomb was hurled at their position. (Amos Harel and Avi Issacharoff, "IDF Troops Uncover Second Explosives Lab in Nablus Raid," Ha'aretz, February 25, 2007; Yaakov Katz, "Hot Winter Continues in Nablus," Jerusalem Post, February 25, 2007; Eftay Weiss, "IDF Raids Explosives Lab in Nablus," YnetNews, February 25, 2007). February 24, 2007:
The IDF Nahal Brigade's elite Reconnaissance Battalion raids a Palestinian Islamic Jihad bomb-making laboratory in the West Bank city of Nablus. Troops discover five pipe bombs, two gas canisters, scrap metal used in bombs, and large quantities of explosives. Islamic Jihad has been responsible for the majority of recent terrorist attacks originating in northern Samaria. (Yaakov Katz, "IDF Raids Nablus, Clashes With Gunmen," Jerusalem Post, February 24, 2007). February 24, 2007:
Abu Ahmad, a senior Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) operative: "In all honesty, the (security) fence has a considerable effect on the Palestinian resistance, but not a total impact. The moves that have an even greater affect, especially in the West Bank, are the targeted killings and extensive arrests. When one of the leaders there (the West Bank) gains prominence he is liquidated or arrested, and this happens repeatedly as another leader emerges in his stead... [Islamic Jihad has rockets with a range of 22 km. that cover the entire city of Ashkelon.] "We do not use these rockets, except in special circumstances, because they can create a turning point in the conflict due to a possible strong retaliation by the Zionist enemy. This is what we reckon. Thus, we limit the use of these rockets to special circumstances and crimes the enemy may perpetrate...We have short range rockets with a range of 9-10 km. that strike Sderot daily... "The organization has 7,000 combatants in the Gaza strip. Our engineering units assemble rockets and weaponry via technical material and instructions on the internet. Islamic Jihad is trying to transfer the rocket technology to the West Bank. The relationship between the organization and the Palestinian security apparatuses suffers no problems." (Jonathan Dahoah Halevi, "Islamic Jihad Acknowledges: It is Possible to Defeat Terrorism Militarily," Shalom Toronto, February 22, 2007). February 23, 2007:
Biological Simulation Center to Be Established in Ramla The Center, which is set to begin its operations in April 2008, will simulate experiments with gases, as a precaution for a biological warfare attack. "Biological warfare is the most dangerous of weaponry as the fallout does not occur immediately, rather the symptoms only appear later," explained the Chief of the Nuclear Biological and Chemical Branch of the IDF Medical Corps, Colonel Tzvika Doshnitzky. A new Center for simulated experiments with gases will be established in April 2008, as a precaution for a biological terrorist attack, in the IDF Homefront Command Headquarters in Ramla. Biological terror constitutes one of the greatest dangers in the Western World. Biological warfare is of great concern worldwide, as it is able to lead to the deaths of hundreds of thousands or even millions of people. Unlike other categories of unconventional weaponry, such as chemical or nuclear weapons, biological weaponry doesn't cause immediate damage rather disseminates from person to person over a long period of time. The facility will be funded by the Ministry of Defense and will be used by the Homefront Command troops as a portion of defense training for civilians in emergency situations. This center will be an addition to the IDF's Simulated Urban Warfare Facilities located in the Specialized Ground Forces Training Facilities Center at the Tzehelim base in the Negev, which serves as the largest IDF infantry forces training base. "These facilities are responsible for overseeing the central development of the security fence, lengthening the Green Line and protecting educational institutions in the settlements bordering Gaza, thereby enforcing the defense of the civilians of this country in the best manner possible," said the Commander of the IDF Construction Center, Colonel Ofrah Rahav. The Center, known as the Unconventional Terror Center, will be constructed with ten million shekels in funds and will include a model shopping center, with a movie theater and parking garage to allow troops to train in a realistic setting for situations in which terrorists execute a biological warfare attack in public places. The building will contain no windows making it impermeable as to better assess the dissemination and spread of the gas. The trainings conducted by the Extrication and Rescue Battalions will not involve the use of toxic gases. "Biological warfare is the most dangerous of weaponry as the fallout does not occur immediately, rather the symptoms only appear later," explained the Chief of the Nuclear Biological and Chemical Branch of the IDF Medical Corps, Colonel Tzvika Doshnitzky. The Colonel also noted that the probability that this category of weaponry being used on civilians was slim. (Elad Shalev, "Biological Simulation Center to Be Established in Ramla," IDF Spokesperson's Office, February 19, 2007). February 23, 2007:
Egyptian authorities confiscate a ton of explosives in the Sinai desert slated to be smuggled into the Gaza Strip. Egyptian officials said the explosives, mostly TNT, were packed in 34 plastic sacks. Bedouin trackers led security forces to the underground cache in Nagaa Shabanah, a village a few kilometers south of the Rafah crossing between Egypt and Gaza. (Yaakov Katz, "IDF Raids Nablus, Clashes With Gunmen," Jerusalem Post, February 24, 2007). February 22, 2007:
Egyptian police capture three Palestinians armed with explosive belts who intended to attack vacation sites in Sinai frequented by Israelis. Officials identified the would-be suicide bombers as Medhat el-Shair, Abdel Majid Abbas and Eyad Said. They said the three had confessed to being members of Islamic Jihad. Shair, the ringleader, had apparently supervised the digging of a tunnel from Gaza to Egypt. The Egyptian authorities discovered the tunnel and arrested the three Palestinians just after they had used it to enter Egypt. (Yaakov Katz, "IDF Raids Nablus, Clashes With Gunmen," Jerusalem Post, February 24, 2007). February 22, 2007:
A new IDF brigade (SAGI) is slated to permanently deploy along the 170 kilometer Israel-Egypt border. The Sagi Brigade will act to thwart weapons smuggling and terrorist infiltration. Colonel Udi Ben Muha, Sagi commander: "Until now we used rotating brigades as an ad hoc solution. Now we will have a constant source of information...We will [be] much more effective..." ("New Brigade to Patrol Egyptian Border," IsraelNationalNews, February 22, 2007; Hanan Greenberg, "New Brigade to Stop Terror Activity Along Egypt Border," YnetNews, February 22, 2007). February 21, 2007:
Organizer of Yesterday's Attempted Bombing Killed This Morning In a joint IDF, ISA and special Border Police arrest operation this morning in the Jenin R.C., Mahmud Ibrahim Qassem Abid "Abu-Jahim", a senior wanted Islamic Jihad terrorist in northern Samaria, was shot and killed after firing his weapon near the force. "Abu-Jahim", born in 1986 and a resident of the Jenin R.C., has been wanted by security forces for a long time. In the past two years he has become a central target, following arrest operations of senior members of the Islamic Jihad infrastructure in the northern Samaria, in the Jenin and Tulkarm areas. "Abu-Jahim" is known as an engineer of the Islamic Jihad infrastructure and has recruited many suicide bombers for attacks in the Israeli home front. "Abu-Jahim" was responsible for the manufacture of high quality explosive devices and involved in dozens of explosive device attacks against Israeli soldiers in the Jenin area. Furthermore, "Abu-Jahim" was one of the commanders responsible for the execution of the attempted suicide bombing attack in Central Israel which was thwarted yesterday. Yesterday afternoon, a successful search was held for a Palestinian, resident of Jalbun, who left Jenin in the morning carrying a large explosive device in his bag. The explosive device handed over to the Israeli Police and the ISA near the city of Rishon Letsion. In an initial investigation the terrorist admitted he was recruited to the Islamic Jihad terrorist infrastructure by "Abu-Jahim", who also supplied him with a large explosive device meant for a suicide bombing attack in the Tel-Aviv new Central Bus Station. "Abu-Jahim" was one of the most senior wanted terrorists in Samaria. "Abu-Jahim's" ability and his experience in manufacturing explosive devices and recruiting suicide bombers made him one of the most important targets in one of the most dangerous terrorist infrastructures in Samaria, a lethal infrastructure that used different methods to strike at Israeli targets. ("Background Information: Organizer of Yesterday's Attempted Bombing Killed This Morning," IDF Spokesperson's Office, February 21, 2007). February 21, 2007:
The Israeli defense establishment expresses concern over the possibility that Hamas may have smuggled a number of Sagger anti-tank missiles from the Sinai into the Gaza Strip. Hamas and other Palestinian terrorist groups have recently increased their efforts to acquire more advanced anti-tank weaponry, including the Konkur and Kornet. The Sagger missiles will almost certainly affect future IDF operations in the Strip, as it poses as a serious danger to armored jeeps, armored personnel carriers (APC's) and tanks. The Sagger AT-3 is a Soviet-manufactured anti-tank missile. The missile can strike a target at distances between 500 meters and three kilometers, and is capable of penetrating 400mm of armor. It is a relatively slow missile, whose rate of flight does not exceed 120 meters per second, and it requires about 25 seconds from the time it is launched until its impact. During the Yom Kippur War, the IDF lost numerous tanks to Egyptian crews armed with Sagger missiles. Since then, the armored corps has developed tactical maneuvering to counter the threat, primarily based on the missile's relatively slow flight and the ability of crews to see the incoming missile. (Amos Harel, "IDF Worried Hamas May Have Advanced Missiles," Ha'aretz, February 21, 2007). February 20, 2007:
- A Palestinian terrorist releases three U.S. women an hour after abducting them in a West Bank village. - Israeli security forces raid a second-floor apartment in Bat Yam and apprehend a would-be Palestinian bomber. He later leads police to the location in Rishon Lezion where he had hidden an explosives-filled bag. The bombing was slated to be carried out at the central bus station in Tel Aviv. The thwarted attack was planned by the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ). - Israeli police lower a security alert in Tel Aviv-Jaffa, hours after raising it over suspicions of a plot to carry out a terrorist attack in the area. Security forces suspected that a suicide bomber had infiltrated in the region, and stationed roadblocks across the city, in particular in the south. Police deployed in large numbers to search vehicles and residential yards. The alert level was extended into the nearby city of Rishon Letzion. - An Israeli citizen is moderately wounded in a shooting attack in north Jerusalem next to the Qalandiya checkpoint. The victim, a technician who was working on a nearby section of the separation fence, was hit by a bullet in his upper body and was taken to a nearby hospital in moderate condition. (Amos Harel, "PA Source: Three U.S. Women Kidnapped in West Bank," Ha'aretz, February 20, 2007; "Security forces prevent terrorist bombing in Tel Aviv," Jerusalem Post, February 20, 2007; Amos Harel, "Police Thwart Large-Scale Terror Attack in Tel Aviv," Ha'aretz, February 20, 2007). February 19, 2007:
IDF Lt. Col. (res.) Jonathan D. Halevi: "The Mecca agreement between Hamas and Fatah does not presage a favorable diplomatic turn. It is merely a tactical political measure calculated to create a false impression regarding Hamas' political flexibility in order to whitewash the organization into being accepted as a legitimate player in the international arena without it having to meet the three preconditions of the Quartet... "Despite the desire of the EU countries to see a stable and democratic Palestinian government, past experience demonstrates that the billions of dollars poured into the Palestinian Authority since the Oslo process commenced have only served to strengthen the radical forces. If assistance is now extended to a Palestinian government where Hamas predominates, the West would be sawing off the limb of the tree which constitutes its Middle Eastern perch." (Lt. Col. [res.] Jonathan D. Halevi, "The International Implications of the Hamas-Fatah Mecca Agreement," JCPA, Vol. 6, No. 20 - February 15, 2007). February 18, 2007:
U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice states there is no evidence that the Palestinian Authority has renounced terrorism. Rice also remains unconvinced that the new Fatah-Hamas unity government will recognize Israel. ("Rice: No Evidence That PA Has Renounced Terrorism," IsraelNationalNews, February 17, 2007). February 18, 2007:
Palestinian terrorists fire five Qassam rockets at the western Negev. (YeshaNews [Translated from Hebrew], February 18, 2007). February 17, 2007:
- Palestinian terrorists fire at IDF forces in three separate incidents in Samaria (Ramallah, Nablus, Jenin sectors: northern West Bank). Two soldiers sustain light injuries. - An Israeli policeman is lightly injured in a Hebron firebombing. ("Terrorist Lightly Injure 2 Israeli Soldiers in Shooting," IsraelNationalNews, February 17, 2007). February 16, 2007:
IDF Lt. Col. (res.) Jonathan D. Halevi: "A close look at the Mecca agreement reveals that it does not hold any new diplomatic news for Israel or for regional peace. Recognition of the state of Israel is not mentioned in the agreement, and according to Hamas leader Khalid Mashaal (al-Hayat, 10/2/07) was never an issue during the discussions. The agreement is based on the national agreement document (i.e. the prisoner's document) and deals with outlining Palestinian strategy for stage one of the Palestinian struggle to liberate Palestine -- the liberation of the West Bank and establishing a Palestinian state in the 1967 territories, preceding the next stage, which is the implementation of the 'return demand' of millions of Palestinian refugees into the state of Israel. "In all honesty, one should note that Hamas never attempts to conceal its true intentions. Mashaal described it clearly as adopting 'a new diplomatic rhetoric...appropriate to the (current) stage, in conjunction with all Palestinian factions...and national necessities.' Hamas spokesman Ismail Raduan stated that the positions of Hamas are unchanging and known, and at core is the unwillingness to recognize the Zionist entity. Hamas is one thing and the national unity government another. "The national unity government is based on the national agreement document which does not recognize the Israeli entity. By establishing a national unity government the Palestinians are setting about to reap diplomatic benefits without making any fundamental changes to their basic positions. They seek to mobilize international support, on the assumption that the West will view the establishment of a stable government as taking precedence over meeting the demands of the international Quartet (recognition of Israel, acceptance of signed agreements, and rejection of terrorism)." (Jonathan Dahoah Halevi, "Palestinian Peace Assault," Shalom Toronto, February 15, 2007). February 15, 2007:
Palestinan terrorists hurl pipe-bombs and fire at IDF forces operating in Tulkarem. (YeshaNews, [Translated from Hebrew], February 15, 2007). February 15, 2007:
Palestinian terrorists fire two Qassam rockets at Israel. One impacts in an open area west of Kibbutz Alumim. The other lands nearby (Shaar Hangev). ("Qassam Impacts West of Kibbutz Alumim," YeshaNews [Translated from Hebrew], February 15, 2007; Shmulik Hadad, "Second Qassam Rocket Lands in Negev," YnetNews, February 15, 2007). February 14, 2007:
Congress freezes $86 million in aid slated for transfer to PA Chairman Mahmoud Abbas and his security forces. Democratic Congresswoman Nita Lowey (who also chairs the House of Representative's Subcommittee on Foreign Operations, Export Financing and Related Agencies), noted that the funds would not be transferred until the administration has elaborated on the designation of the aid. According to Lowey, Congress was not given sufficient information regarding where and why the funds were being transferred. (Shmuel Rosner, "U.S. Congress Freezes Transfer of $86 Million in Aid to Abbas," Ha'aretz, February 14, 2007). February 13, 2007:
Khaled Batch, a Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) official, threatens American civilians in response to the recent posting of a $5 million reward for the arrest of PIJ leader Ramadan Shalah. ("Islamic Jihad Respond to American Bounty," IsraelNationalNews, February 13, 2007). February 13, 2007:
Palestinian terrorists fire a Qassam rocket at an Israeli town north of the Gaza Strip. Several greenhouses sustain damage from the strike. ("Kassam Lands North of Gaza, Damages Buildings," Jerusalem Post, February 13, 2007). February 12, 2007:
Hamas spokesman Mushir Al-Masri reiterates that the new Hamas-led coalition government will neither recognize Israel nor stop terror. According to Al-Masri, Hamas interprets the Mecca agreement to mean that the Arab and Islamic worlds have accepted them as they are, and that "international legitimization" will follow. (Itamar Marcus and Barbara Crook, "Hamas: We Will Not Recognize Israel Or Stop Violence," Palestinian Media Watch, February 12, 2007). February 12, 2007:
- Palestinian terrorists in the Gaza Strip fire four Qassam rockets at the western Negev. - 61 rock-throwing incidents (involving Palestinians) - 28 targeting Israeli civilian vehicles, 27 involving IDF vehicles, and 6 involving work on the West Bank security fence - are registered between Thursday afternoon and Sunday morning. - The IDF records 28 incidents of Molotov cocktail attacks: two against civilian targets and 22 targeting IDF troops. - An Israeli woman sustains light injuries after she is hit by a rock in the village of Hawara, south of Nablus. - IDF sources said the hubs of the protests (against construction in the Old City) are the Kalandia checkpoint, the village of Beit Omar, and Hebron. (Yonatan Lis, "Four Qassam rockets fired at Israel from Gaza Strip," Ha'aretz, February 12, 2007). February 11, 2007:
The Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) has successfully manufactured the Quds-4 rocket. The 220mm Quds-4 (a modified Russian Grad rocket) is capable of achieving a range of 22 kilometers. ("Islamic Jihad: New Rocket Has 22 Km. Range," IsraelNationalNews, February 11, 2007). February 10, 2007:
A profile of the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) is now available on WeaponSurvey. February 10, 2007:
Ahmed Youssef, a political advisor to PA Prime Minister Ismail Haniyeh (HAMAS), announces that the new Palestinian unity government will not recognize Israel. "The issue of recognition was not addressed at all (in Mecca)...In the platform of the new government there will be no sign of recognition (of Israel), regardless of the pressures the United States and the Quartet would exert." (Avi Issacharoff, "Hamas Official: Unity Gov't Will Not Recognize Israel," Ha'aretz, February 10, 2007). February 10, 2007:
A Palestinian terrorist carrying two explosive devices is apprehended at the Hawara checkpoint, south of the West Bank city of Nablus. (Mijal Grinberg, "IDF Arrests Palestinian Carrying Explosives South of Nablus," Ha'aretz, February 10, 2007). February 9, 2007:
Palestinian terrorists fire four Qassam rockets at the western Negev. Two rockets impact near the Karni crossing. The other two land near the Gaza security fence. (Mijal Grinberg, "Four Qassams Strike Western Negev, No Damage Reported," Ha'aretz, February 9, 2007). February 9, 2007:
Israeli Public Security Minister Avi Dichter states that Egypt does not prevent weapons smuggling from the Sinai to Hamas terrorists in the Gaza Strip. "There is no doubt that Egypt is not doing enough....I am sure that if Egypt decides to block this flow of smuggling, they can do it, 100 percent." Dichter also notes that "tens of tons" of explosives are being smuggled. Egyptian Ambassador Nabil Fahmy rejects the accusations. ("Israel Tells U.S. Egypt Still Lets Arms Flow to Hamas," IsraelNationalNews, February 9, 2007). February 8, 2007:
Dorit Beinisch, the President of Israel's Supreme Court: "30 [school] children [in Qassam range] have 15 seconds to get to a fortified structure. This is not enough." Beinisch also notes that movement from a classroom to a separate fortified structure under severe time constraints will cause panic. (Aviram Zino, "Head Justice Worried About Fortifications in West Negev Schools," YnetNews, February 8, 2007). February 8, 2007:
- Palestinian terrorists fire a Qassam rocket at the Sha'ar Hanegev district. - Palestinian terrorists fire a Qassam rocket that impacts near Ashkelon. (Shmulik Hadad, "Qassam Rocket Hits Sha'ar Hanegev," YnetNews, February 8, 2007; "Kassam Lands Near Ashkelon, One Person in Shock," YnetNews, February 8, 2007). February 7, 2007:
The Al Aqsa Brigades (FATAH) threatens to target Israeli synagogues if Israel "continue[s] the Judaization of the holy city of Jerusalem and the demolition of the Al Aqsa Mosque." The Brigades emphasizes that all (Israeli) synagogues are potential targets. ("Al Aqsa Brigades Threaten to Target Jewish Synagogues in Retaliation for Israeli Assault on Al Aqsa Mosque," Ma'an News Agency, February 7, 2007). February 7, 2007:
Fatah continues to develop rockets in the West Bank. Fatah operatives, aided by Iran and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ), have accumulated material for the development of short-range missiles and rockets in the West Bank. According to Israeli security sources, Fatah has also consulted experts in the Gaza Strip. "Iran has been financing the development of rockets, but the effort has been slower than expected..." On Feb. 1, Israeli security forces captured a senior Fatah operative said to oversee the rocket production program in the West Bank. Amr Barakeh, 20, was arrested in the West Bank city of Tulkarem, considered the nexus of Fatah and Jihad rocket development. ("Fatah Continues to Try to Build Rockets in W. Bank," Middle East Newsline, February 7, 2007). February 6, 2007:
Palestinian terrorists fire five Qassam rockets at Israeli targets. One lands near a northern Negev kibbutz and another impacts along the fence of a strategic facility in Ashkelon's industrial zone. A facility employee: "We heard a very loud explosion and the siren at the factory was activated. The rocket hit the fence, very close to a sensitive location. I can say that a very big disaster had been prevented...Unfortunately, this is the reality around here. There are quite a few strategic facilities in the area, and rockets land here all the time. But it sometimes seems that no one cares..." (Shmulik Hadad, "Qassam Lands Near Strategic Site in Ashkelon," YnetNews, February 6, 2007; "Fifth Kassam Fired at Israel Tuesday Evening," IsraelNationalNews, February 6, 2007). February 6, 2007:
Wanted Tanzim Terrorists Arrested in Nablus In a joint IDF, ISA and Israeli police arrest operation in the city of Nablus this morning, February 6th 2006, an IDF force arrested three wanted terrorists from the Tanzim, an offshoot of Fatah. - Ahsan Azam Abed Al Gaber Haraz, a 21 year-old resident of Nablus, was involved in planning a suicide bombing and in directing a roadside bomb attack against IDF forces patrolling the area of the Israeli community of Alon Moreh. - Abed Al Gaber Rashid Abed Al Gaber Fukah, a 20 year-old resident of the Tulkarm area, was involved in an attempt to smuggle an explosive device out of Nablus. The device was captured by IDF forces at the Ein Bidan crossing, which was recently reopened to ease travel in the area. The intent was to plant the device on one of the roads in the area of Tulkarm. The two are a part of the Tanzim infrastructure in the area of Nablus. This infrastructure poses one of the highest terror threats in the West Bank today. Its members make constant attempts to carry out murderous attacks against Israeli civilians. ("Wanted Tanzim Terrorists Arrested in Nablus," IDF Spokesperson's Office, February 6, 2007). February 6, 2007:
- Hamas and Fatah operatives trade fire at Gaza's border with Egypt as PA Prime Minister Ismail Haniyeh passes through on his way to reconciliation talks between Hamas and Fatah in Saudi Arabia. - The Rafah Crossing between the Gaza Strip and Egypt is forced to close after the European observer mission withdraws due to chaos at the crossing. ("Rafah Crossing Closed Tuesday Noon as European Observers Withdraw," Ma'an News Agency, February 6, 2007; "Gunfire Erupts at Gaza-Egypt Crossing," Associated Press, February 6, 2006). February 6, 2007:
Hamas accelerates efforts to improve its military capability:
The combat tunnels closely resemble those dug by Hizballah operatives in southern Lebanon. However, the Gaza tunnels will allow Hamas and Islamic Jihad operatives to surface, fire missiles and quickly reappear elsewhere. The tunnels will also conceal IED's at strategic locations -- and can be used to infiltrate Israeli territory. Rockets The IDF and Shin Bet (GSS) assess that Hamas will soon be capable of firing rockets at Kiryat Gat and targets north of Ashkelon. Hamas (with the help of Hizballah and Iran) is attemtpting to increase the indigneously produced Katyusha rocket payload from 5-7 kilograms (found in the Qassam) to dozens of kilograms. Hamas has also attempted to obtain and manufacture stable explosives that will not undergo a process of chemical deterioration -- allowing the terrorist group to stockpile rockets for longer periods of time. Weapons Smuggling Hamas is also smuggling large quantities of anti-tank and anti-aircraft missiles via the Philadelphi route and Mediterranean. (Ron Ben-Yishai, "Hamas Digging Tunnels For Next Battle," YnetNews, February 5, 2007). February 6, 2007:
- Shin Bet (GSS) chief Yuval Diskin warns that Hamas is continuing to develop a massive tunnel infrastructure in Gaza, smuggling in an estimated 28 tons of standard-grade explosives into the Strip in 2006, compared with an estimated 6 tons in 2005. - Diskin: "Terror organizations are digging tunnels from Gaza towards Israel with the intention of carrying out attacks against IDF forces in the communities adjacent to the border...At the moment there are at least 10 tunnels being dug, in varying stages of progress." - 2006: Palestinian terrorists smuggled in 14,000 assault rifles (9,300 in 2005), some 5 million armament accessories (2 million in 2005), 150 RPG rockets, 65 grenade launchers, 10 upgraded anti-tank missiles and 10 anti-aircraft missiles. - 1,726 rockets impacted inside Israel in 2006, compared to 401 in 2005. - 279 potential suicide bombers were arrested in the West Bank over the course of 2006, an almost 80 percent increase from last year's 154 potential bombers. - Diskin also notes that Egyptian security forces are failing to stop the smuggling of weapons from the Sinai Desert to Palestinian terror groups inside the Gaza Strip. "If Egypt starts to thwart the transfer of weapons then that will slow down the terror buildup in Gaza and stave off a military operation there...They [the Egyptians] have a key in their hands and they know it." - According to Diskin, Cairo is using the claim that it needed more soldiers along the border as an excuse to open and make changes to the Camp David peace agreement. (Hanan Greenberg, "Shin Bet Chief: Hamas Using Calm to Build Up Strength," YnetNews, February 5, 2007; Yaakov Katz, "Diskin: Egypt Is Not Active Enough," Jerusalem Post, February 5, 2007). February 5, 2007:
Following a discussion with - inter alia - Defense Minister Amir Peretz, Minister Rafi Eitan and senior defense establishment officials, Prime Minister Ehud Olmert decided to approve Defense Minister Peretz's and the defense establishment's recommendation to develop the "Iron Dome" defense system against short- and intermediate-range missiles. The Prime Minister said that this was the most successful alternative in terms of the solutions it provides, the timetable for its development and costs. He added that it was clearly necessary to develop and deploy this system, which along with other long- and intermediate-range defensive systems, would provide residents of Israel with optimal protection against missiles. The Prime Minister instructed the defense establishment to consult with the Finance Ministry on the various possibilities for financing the development and acquisition of the system. ("PM Olmert Approves "Iron Dome" Missile Defense System," PMO's Office, February 4, 2007). February 4, 2007:
Four communities in the Eshkol Regional Council ask to be included among towns surrounding the Gaza Strip that are given tax benefits and building reinforcements to protect against Qassam rocket fire. Existing government policy stipulates that towns within 7 kilometers from the Gaza Strip border are eligible for these benefits. The four communities asking to be included are located 7.5 kilometers from the border, just 500 meters away from the designating lines. Eli Aharon, deputy head of the Eshkol Regional Council: "Just a month and a half ago a Qassam rocket landed across the school where the children from these communities study, and the school was still found to be outside of the seven kilometer range..." In June 2005, the Knesset approved granting tax benefits to communities near the Gaza Strip, known as "the Gaza envelope." According to the policy, 22 of the 29 communities in the regional council receive these benefits. The four communities requesting inclusion are Sadeh Nitzan, Ohad, Shohar and Talmei Yosef. (Mijal Grinberg, "Four Towns Want Tax Benefits Given To Those 500m Closer To Gaza," Ha'aretz, February 4, 2007). February 4, 2007:
Palestinian terrorists detonate an explosive device along the Gaza Strip perimeter fence, north of the Kerem Shalom crossing. (YeshaNews [Translated from Hebrew], February 4, 2007). February 4, 2007:
The U.S. is slated to expand assistance to PA President Mahmoud Abbas to include 8,500 members of his national security forces and possibly 1,000 Fatah fighters based in Jordan (BADR BRIGADE). According to unclassified documents, $76.4 million will fund "projects to transform and strengthen elements of the Palestinian Authority's security structure, specifically the National Security Forces and Presidential Guard in an effort to improve public order and fight terror in the West Bank and Gaza...These projects have been developed in coordination with the office of the PA president (Abbas), and the overall plan enjoys the support of the government of Israel..." $35.5 million will be used to provide non-lethal equipment, including riot gear and communications equipment, to about 8,500 members of Abbas's National Security Forces. Another $15 million in U.S. funds would provide at least one NSF unit, estimated to have 668 members, with an initial six months of training to counter "civil disorder," most likely at a facility in Jordan. The funds will be used "in support of NSF deployment throughout the West Bank and Gaza so that the NSF may establish a visible public presence, improve public order and help improve border security." (Adam Entous, "U.S. to Support Up to 10,000 Extra Abbas Troops," Reuters, February 3, 2007). February 4, 2007:
The IDF accelerates its planning of a possible extended military operation in Gaza. Top military sources note the escalation of internecine violence is likely to extend to anti-Israel violence. They said no operation was slated to take place immediately, but that IDF activity in Gaza - similar to the 2002 Operation Defensive Shield in the West Bank - may become necessary. The IDF and Shin Bet security service are particularly concerned by the possibility that Hamas will resume suicide bombings or other attacks on Israel, possibly due to accusations that Israel is supporting Fatah. Hamas is also accumulating large quantities of Qassam rockets, whose range, accuracy and strength have improved since Israel's withdrawal from Gaza in the summer of 2005. Hamas and Islamic Jihad are thought to have rockets with a range of 15 to 16 kilometers. (Avi Issacharoff and Amos Harel, "IDF Gearing Up For Large Military Operation in Gaza," Ha'aretz, February 4, 2007). February 3, 2007:
Israel Radio reports the kidnapping of Ashraf Dahlan, nephew of Fatah leader Mohammed Dahlan (FATAH). The nephew served as a driver in Dahlan's office. Gunmen apparently seized him at a roadblock. ("Gunmen Quit Gaza Streets as Latest Truce Takes Hold," Ha'aretz, February 4, 2007). February 3, 2007:
- A Fatah affiliated National Security Forces officer is killed in the center of Gaza City by Hamas gunmen. - The incident occured only a few hours after Palestinian Prime Minister Ismail Haniyeh of Hamas urged gunmen to withdraw from Gaza City's streets, as clashes between Fatah and Hamas militants resumed Saturday across the Gaza Strip in defiance of a truce deal. - Fatah gunmen kidnapped two Hamas militants in the West Bank city of Nablus, one of them the head of the Shari'a faculty at the city's A-Najah University. - Fatah sources announced that Hamas gunmen kidnapped six unarmed members of the Palestinian Authority's Preventative Security Service at roadblocks they had set up in the city. Fatah gunmen later kidnapped two Hamas operatives. - Fatah gunmen stormed the Agriculture Ministry, ransacking offices and stealing computers, servers and official documents. Gunmen also took position on the ministry's rooftop and began firing, al-Agha said. - Gunbattles also erupted around Fatah-dominated National Security headquarters and near the Islamic University, a Hamas stronghold that had been the site of fierce gunbattles on the previous two days. Hospital officials reported five civilians and one National Security officer wounded in the first few minutes of the battle. (Avi Issacharoff and Amos Harel, "Haniyeh Calls on Armed Men to leave Gaza Streets," Ha'aretz, February 3, 2007). February 2, 2007:
- At least 10 Palestinians are killed in clashes between Hamas and Fatah, bringing the total number of fatalities since a brief cease-fire collapsed Thursday to 17. Some 170 have been wounded in the fierce fighting. - Friday's fatalities included Abu Awed Salim, the commander of the Fatah-affiliated General Intelligence Services in the northern Gaza Strip. - Israel Radio reported the death of a woman who was killed when a bullet pierced her home. - Meanwhile, fire engulfed the Islamic University, a Hamas stronghold in Gaza City, on Friday. Hamas officials accused Fatah forces of trying to burn down the university and demolish it with bulldozers. Heavy smoke from the fires blanketed parts of Gaza City. - Hamas operatives blew up a pro-Fatah radio station in Gaza, ambulances were caught in the crossfire and gunmen exchanged heavy fire in deserted streets. - Fifty officers from Palestinian Authority Chairman Mahmoud Abbas' presidential guard surrounded the Hamas-controlled Interior Ministry on Friday morning and exchanged fire with Hamas gunmen guarding the building. Outside of Gaza City, Hamas militants launched mortar shells at a Fatah training base. - Overnight, rival gunmen fought in the streets with mortar shells, rocket-propelled grenades and heavy caliber machine guns. (Avi Issacharoff and Amos Harel, "Fatah and Hamas Agree in Principle to Revive Truce," Ha'aretz, February 2, 2007). February 2, 2007:
Palestinian Security Forces (FATAH) claim the arrest of seven Iranian weapons experts working under the auspices of Hamas during a raid at the Islamic University (Gaza City). One operative allegedly commits suicide during the raid. 1,400 firearms and missiles are seized. (Avi Issacharoff, "Fatah: 7 Iranian Weapons Experts Arrested in Gaza," Ha'aretz, February 2, 2007). February 2, 2007:
Israeli Defense Minister Amir Peretz selects the Rafael "Iron Dome" anti-missile defense system designed to intercept short-range missiles such as Katyusha and Qassam rockets. Rafael is also slated to cooperate with Raytheon in the development of a system dubbed "Magic Wand." The Magic Wand defends targets against mid-range missile strikes. The decision is later disputed by the PMO -- but eventually resolved. (Amos Harel, "Defense Minister Selects Rafael Anti-Missile Defense System," Ha'aretz, February 2, 2007; "Final Approval on Anti-Missile Defense System," IsraelNationalNews, February 4, 2007). February 2, 2007:
Wanted Tanzim terrorist arrested in Tulkarm In a joint IDF, ISA and Border Police arrest operation earlier today in Tulkarm, forces arrested Amer Barake, a senior operative in the Tanzim, an offshoot of the Fatah organization. Amer Mahmud Muhamad Barake, 20, a senior Tanzim operative, was involved in the development of a rocket launching infrastructure in the West Bank. Furthermore, a month ago Barake attempted to recruit a suicide bomber in order to carry out a bombing attack that was directed by operatives from the Gaza Strip. In addition, Barake was involved in manufacturing several explosive belts and explosive devices, and also was involved in several explosive device attacks and shooting attacks against IDF forces operating in Tulkarm. Barake's terror activity was directed by Hezbollah terrorists and by operatives from the Gaza Strip. Barake also served as a middleman between operatives from the Gaza Strip and operatives in Tulkarm. Gasser Abu Zarib, a Tanzim operative, was killed as he attempted to escape security forces along with Barake. Abu Zarib was a weapons dealer, had been involved in shooting attacks in the area of Tulkarm and assisted other wanted operatives. ("Wanted Tanzim Terrorist Arrested in Tulkarm," IDF Spokesperson's Office, February 2, 2007). February 2, 2007:
6 Palestinians are killed and at least 20 wounded (including two children) during renewed clashes in the central Gaza Strip between Hamas and Fatah. - Two presidential guard officers and two civilians were killed in the central Gaza refugee camp Bureij on Thursday afternoon, when Hamas gunmen ambushed what the Islamic group alleged was a convoy carrying weapons from Egypt into the Gaza Strip, intended for the presidential guard. One of the civilians killed was a child. - Hamas operatives fired mortar shells near Abbas' residence in Gaza City and nearby street battles sent residents fleeing in terror. Some left their cars idling while they sought shelter. Masked gunmen took up positions on rooftops, while others took cover in alleyways below. Abbas was not in Gaza at the time. - Separate gunbattles then broke out in Gaza City and in northern Gaza outside a military intelligence post. Security officials said Hamas operatives fired a rocket at the post and then sacked it, injuring five members of the security forces. At least two Hamas supporters were wounded. - A Fatah member was kidnapped in northern Gaza during the clashes, and one security officer was wounded, security officials said. - Ten Palestinians were wounded during a Hamas attempt to take over a military intelligence headquarters in the northern Gaza Strip. Hamas attacks Fatah convoy Fatah said the four-truck convoy, which set off from the Kerem Shalom crossing with Israel, was carrying medical equipment and tents, and accused Hamas of plunging a 3-day-old Palestinian ceasefire into "grave danger." A battle raged between Hamas gunmen and presidential guards accompanying the convoy, according to residents in the area. "A real war is taking place, gunmen are using the heaviest arms they have," a witness said. Sources in the governing Hamas movement said the trucks were carrying weapons for the 4,000-man presidential guard, a force loyal to Abbas and his Fatah faction. "Hamas's heroes have commandeered arms shipments that came through Kerem Shalom as part of the fight against the Palestinian people," a presenter on a Hamas radio station said. Fatah spokesman Tawfiq Abu Khoussa said the convoy was carrying generators, tents and medical equipment. "There are no weapons at all," Abu Khoussa told the Reuters news agency, adding the ambush "represented a grave danger to the continuation of the (ceasefire) agreement" ("Gaza Truce Near Collapse as Four Killed in Clashes," Associated Press, February 2, 2007). February 1, 2007:
IDF forces kill two Palestinian terrorists in Nablus. An IDF source: "A force identified two gunmen and fired at them during an operation in Nablus." According to local residents, the two belonged to the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Brigades (FATAH). (Amos Harel, "Palestinians: IDF Troops Kill 2 Militants in West Bank Raid," Ha'aretz, February 1, 2007). February 1, 2007:
A senior State Department official states that US does not expect a change in the position of the Quartet toward Hamas. The official was responding to reports of a Russian intention to raise current policy for debate in the Quartet meeting in Washington. (Shmuel Rosner, "U.S. Official: Quartet Will Not Change Its Policy Towards Hamas," Ha'aretz, February 1, 2007). [Archive]
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