June 30, 2006:
- Three Palestinian terrorist groups that captured an IDF soldier six days ago demand Israel free 1,000 Arab prisoners and end its current Gaza operation.
- The IAF targets several sites in the Gaza Strip, including a terrorist training facility, a building used by Hamas terrorists, and a former Israeli community currently occupied by the Palestinian terrorist group known as the Abu Rush Brigades.
- The IAF targets an Islamic Jihad Qassam rocket-launching cell.
- Palestinian terrorists snipe at IDF positions in Dahaniya airport (southern Gaza).
- Palestinian terrorists fire several rounds of anti-tank rockets at Israel tanks and APCs.
(Amos Harel, "Israel Air Force hits Hamas, Fatah targets in Gaza Strip," Ha'aretz, July 1, 2006; DebkaFile, June 30, 2006).
- Three Palestinian terrorist groups that captured an IDF soldier six days ago demand Israel free 1,000 Arab prisoners and end its current Gaza operation.
- The IAF targets several sites in the Gaza Strip, including a terrorist training facility, a building used by Hamas terrorists, and a former Israeli community currently occupied by the Palestinian terrorist group known as the Abu Rush Brigades.
- The IAF targets an Islamic Jihad Qassam rocket-launching cell.
- Palestinian terrorists snipe at IDF positions in Dahaniya airport (southern Gaza).
- Palestinian terrorists fire several rounds of anti-tank rockets at Israel tanks and APCs.
(Amos Harel, "Israel Air Force hits Hamas, Fatah targets in Gaza Strip," Ha'aretz, July 1, 2006; DebkaFile, June 30, 2006).
June 30, 2006:
- IDF artillery targets a power plant in northern Gaza.
- The IAF strikes more than a dozen times in Gaza, targeting the Palestinian Interior Ministry and a Fatah office in Gaza city, as well as a Hamas training camp in the city's outskirts.
- The IDF confirms its planes hit the office of Interior Minister Said Siyam, which it noting that building served as "a meeting place to plan and direct terror activity."
- The IAF strikes a factory in the northern Gaza Strip used by the Al-Aksa Martyrs Brigades terrorist organization for the manufacture of rockets and other weapons.
- IAF aircraft target a Palestinian terrorists preparing to launch an anti-tank missile at IDF infantry forces.
- Palestinian terrorists fire a Qassam rocket towards Ashkelon. The rocket impacts hundreds of meters away from the residential are of the city.
Police confirm the rocket is an improved version of the Qassam. No injuries are reported in the incident.
("Gaza Power Station Hit by Artillery, Not IAF," IsraelNationalNews, June 30, 2006; Avi Issacharoff and Amos Harel, "Interior Ministry Building in Gaza Hit in IAF Strike," Ha'aretz, June 30, 2006; "Fatah Weapons Factory Hit By IDF," IsraelNationalNews, June 30, 2006; "Air Force Strikes in North and South Gaza Warfare," IsraelNationalNews, June 30, 2006; Amos Harel, "Israel Air Force hits Hamas, Fatah targets in Gaza Strip," Ha'aretz, July 1, 2006).
- IDF artillery targets a power plant in northern Gaza.
- The IAF strikes more than a dozen times in Gaza, targeting the Palestinian Interior Ministry and a Fatah office in Gaza city, as well as a Hamas training camp in the city's outskirts.
- The IDF confirms its planes hit the office of Interior Minister Said Siyam, which it noting that building served as "a meeting place to plan and direct terror activity."
- The IAF strikes a factory in the northern Gaza Strip used by the Al-Aksa Martyrs Brigades terrorist organization for the manufacture of rockets and other weapons.
- IAF aircraft target a Palestinian terrorists preparing to launch an anti-tank missile at IDF infantry forces.
- Palestinian terrorists fire a Qassam rocket towards Ashkelon. The rocket impacts hundreds of meters away from the residential are of the city.
Police confirm the rocket is an improved version of the Qassam. No injuries are reported in the incident.
("Gaza Power Station Hit by Artillery, Not IAF," IsraelNationalNews, June 30, 2006; Avi Issacharoff and Amos Harel, "Interior Ministry Building in Gaza Hit in IAF Strike," Ha'aretz, June 30, 2006; "Fatah Weapons Factory Hit By IDF," IsraelNationalNews, June 30, 2006; "Air Force Strikes in North and South Gaza Warfare," IsraelNationalNews, June 30, 2006; Amos Harel, "Israel Air Force hits Hamas, Fatah targets in Gaza Strip," Ha'aretz, July 1, 2006).
June 30, 2006:
- Palestinian terrorists fire six Qassam rockets at Sderot and other areas in the western Negev.
- IDF forces fire 400 artillery shells at northern and southern Gaza.
- Palestinian terrorists detonate a land mine along the Gaza-Egypt border fence. PA police attempt to seal off the opening by forming a human barrier. Egyptian soldiers line up on their side of the border to prevent Palestinians from crossing into Egypt by climbing a border wall less than 100 meters away from the scene of the blast.
(Shmulik Hadad, "Qassam Lands Near Gymnasium in Sderot," YnetNews, June 29, 2006; "Hundreds of Shells Fired At Gaza," IsraelNationalNews, June 29, 2006; "PA Arabs Blast Hole in Border Fence to Egypt," IsraelNationalNews, June 29, 2006).
- Palestinian terrorists fire six Qassam rockets at Sderot and other areas in the western Negev.
- IDF forces fire 400 artillery shells at northern and southern Gaza.
- Palestinian terrorists detonate a land mine along the Gaza-Egypt border fence. PA police attempt to seal off the opening by forming a human barrier. Egyptian soldiers line up on their side of the border to prevent Palestinians from crossing into Egypt by climbing a border wall less than 100 meters away from the scene of the blast.
(Shmulik Hadad, "Qassam Lands Near Gymnasium in Sderot," YnetNews, June 29, 2006; "Hundreds of Shells Fired At Gaza," IsraelNationalNews, June 29, 2006; "PA Arabs Blast Hole in Border Fence to Egypt," IsraelNationalNews, June 29, 2006).
June 29, 2006:
- Phase two of Operation Summer Rains is imminent. IDF forces are poised to enter northern Gaza and capture strategic positions as residents of Beit Lahiyeh and Beit Hanoun are told to leave their homes and "stay safe."
- IDF forces arrest top officials of the Hamas government. More than 30 are arrested in Ramallah, Qalqilyah, Hebron, Jenin and Jerusalem.
- The IAF targets two Hamas training camps and a missile factory.
- The IAF targets a Fatah weapons storage facility in Gaza.
- Israeli naval forces shell Qassam rocket launching sites in the northern Gaza Strip.
(Hana Levi Julian, "IDF Ready for Operation Summer Rains, Phase II," IsraelNationalNews, June 29, 2006; "Israel Nabs Deputy PM; Israeli Executed," Associated Press, April 28, 2006; Avi Issacharoff and Amos Harel, "More than 30 Hamas Men Arrested, Palestinians Say," Ha'aretz, April 29, 2006; Yaakov Katz, "IAF; Navy Shelling Targets in N. Gaza," Jerusalem Post, June 29, 2006; "IAF, Navy Strikes Hamas, Fatah Facilities," IsraelNationalNews, June 29, 2006).
- Phase two of Operation Summer Rains is imminent. IDF forces are poised to enter northern Gaza and capture strategic positions as residents of Beit Lahiyeh and Beit Hanoun are told to leave their homes and "stay safe."
- IDF forces arrest top officials of the Hamas government. More than 30 are arrested in Ramallah, Qalqilyah, Hebron, Jenin and Jerusalem.
- The IAF targets two Hamas training camps and a missile factory.
- The IAF targets a Fatah weapons storage facility in Gaza.
- Israeli naval forces shell Qassam rocket launching sites in the northern Gaza Strip.
(Hana Levi Julian, "IDF Ready for Operation Summer Rains, Phase II," IsraelNationalNews, June 29, 2006; "Israel Nabs Deputy PM; Israeli Executed," Associated Press, April 28, 2006; Avi Issacharoff and Amos Harel, "More than 30 Hamas Men Arrested, Palestinians Say," Ha'aretz, April 29, 2006; Yaakov Katz, "IAF; Navy Shelling Targets in N. Gaza," Jerusalem Post, June 29, 2006; "IAF, Navy Strikes Hamas, Fatah Facilities," IsraelNationalNews, June 29, 2006).
June 29, 2006:
The Popular Resistance Committees states that it executed 18-year-old Eliyahu Asheri, an Israeli civilian kidnapped by Palestinian terrorists earlier in the week. Israeli security forces find the body buried in a field, and determine that he was shot in the head soon after he was kidnapped on Sunday.
(Yoav Appel and Yaakov Katz, "PRC Statement from Gaza Claims Eliyahu Asheri Dead," Jerusalem Post, June 29, 2006; ""Israel Nabs Deputy PM; Israeli Executed," Associated Press, April 28, 2006; Amos Harel, Avi Issacharof, Jonathan Lis and Yuval Azoulay, "Missing Teen Found Dead, Buried in Ramallah Field," Ha'aretz, April 29, 2006).
The Popular Resistance Committees states that it executed 18-year-old Eliyahu Asheri, an Israeli civilian kidnapped by Palestinian terrorists earlier in the week. Israeli security forces find the body buried in a field, and determine that he was shot in the head soon after he was kidnapped on Sunday.
(Yoav Appel and Yaakov Katz, "PRC Statement from Gaza Claims Eliyahu Asheri Dead," Jerusalem Post, June 29, 2006; ""Israel Nabs Deputy PM; Israeli Executed," Associated Press, April 28, 2006; Amos Harel, Avi Issacharof, Jonathan Lis and Yuval Azoulay, "Missing Teen Found Dead, Buried in Ramallah Field," Ha'aretz, April 29, 2006).
June 28, 2006:
Palestinian terrorists fire Qassam rockets at Sderot.
(Hana Levi Julian, "IDF Ready for Operation Summer Rains, Phase II," IsraelNationalNews, June 29, 2006).
Palestinian terrorists fire Qassam rockets at Sderot.
(Hana Levi Julian, "IDF Ready for Operation Summer Rains, Phase II," IsraelNationalNews, June 29, 2006).
June 28, 2006:
- The IDF continues Operation Summer Rains in the Gaza Strip.
- Palestinian terrorists fire four Qassam rockets at Israel.
Three of the rockets impact in Netiv HaAsara. One lands in the vicinity of Kibbutz Yad Morderchai.
- The Popular Resistance Committees (PRC) terrorist group holds a press conference, during which a spokesman displays the national identification card of kidnapped Itamar resident Eliyahu Yitzhak Asheri.
Asheri has been missing since Sunday.
- A PRC spokesman tells Al-Jazeera satellite TV that Asheri will be "butchered in front of TV cameras" if Israel doesn't halt the operation.
("Four Kassams Fired at Western Negev Since Morning," IsraelNationalNews, June 28, 2006; Amos Harel and Jonathan Liss, "Terror Group Exhibits ID Card of Missing Itamar Teenager," Ha'aretz, June 28, 2006).
- The IDF continues Operation Summer Rains in the Gaza Strip.
- Palestinian terrorists fire four Qassam rockets at Israel.
Three of the rockets impact in Netiv HaAsara. One lands in the vicinity of Kibbutz Yad Morderchai.
- The Popular Resistance Committees (PRC) terrorist group holds a press conference, during which a spokesman displays the national identification card of kidnapped Itamar resident Eliyahu Yitzhak Asheri.
Asheri has been missing since Sunday.
- A PRC spokesman tells Al-Jazeera satellite TV that Asheri will be "butchered in front of TV cameras" if Israel doesn't halt the operation.
("Four Kassams Fired at Western Negev Since Morning," IsraelNationalNews, June 28, 2006; Amos Harel and Jonathan Liss, "Terror Group Exhibits ID Card of Missing Itamar Teenager," Ha'aretz, June 28, 2006).
June 27, 2006:
The IAF destroys three main bridges, located along the main route connecting the northern and southern parts of the Gaza Strip. The Air Force also targets an electrical transformer station south of Gaza city, cutting the power supply from portions of the region.
Ground forces enter the southeastern part of the Strip and gain control of two key sites near Dahaniya.
The IDF confirms it has taken over the Dahaniya Airport.
Artillery units are shelling areas from where Qassam rockets are often launched at Israel.
The army notes the operation is intended to keep Hamas from taking kidnapped soldier Cpl. Gilad Shalit out of the Strip.
In response to the ongoing counter-terror operation, the Popular Resistance Committees threatens to kill 18-year-old Itamar resident Eliyahu Asheri - whom they claimed to have kidnapped - if Israel does not halt its military activity in the Gaza Strip.
(Gil Hoffman, "Ground Troops Enter Gaza, Encounter Little Resistance," Jerusalem Post, June 27, 2006; "Army Confirms Taking Dahaniya Airport," IsraelNationalNews, June 27, 2006).
The IAF destroys three main bridges, located along the main route connecting the northern and southern parts of the Gaza Strip. The Air Force also targets an electrical transformer station south of Gaza city, cutting the power supply from portions of the region.
Ground forces enter the southeastern part of the Strip and gain control of two key sites near Dahaniya.
The IDF confirms it has taken over the Dahaniya Airport.
Artillery units are shelling areas from where Qassam rockets are often launched at Israel.
The army notes the operation is intended to keep Hamas from taking kidnapped soldier Cpl. Gilad Shalit out of the Strip.
In response to the ongoing counter-terror operation, the Popular Resistance Committees threatens to kill 18-year-old Itamar resident Eliyahu Asheri - whom they claimed to have kidnapped - if Israel does not halt its military activity in the Gaza Strip.
(Gil Hoffman, "Ground Troops Enter Gaza, Encounter Little Resistance," Jerusalem Post, June 27, 2006; "Army Confirms Taking Dahaniya Airport," IsraelNationalNews, June 27, 2006).
June 26, 2006:
- Prime Minister Ehud Olmert officially seals off the Gaza Strip following the kidnapping of IDF Corporal Gilad Shalit.
"By my order and that of the Defense Minister, the Gaza Strip is closed by sea and by land."
- Palestinian terrorists announce they will not provide any information about Shalit unless Israel agreed to release PA prisoners who are under 18 or female.
- Dozens of IDF tanks and other armored vehicles gather near northern Gaza in preparation for a possible operation the Gaza Strip. Thousands of soldiers from the Golani and Givati brigades are also converging on the area as well as tons of logistic equipment, mobile toilets, showers, and food.
(Hana Levi Julian, "Gaza Sealed Off, IDF Buildup at the Border," IsraelNationalNews, June 26, 2006).
- Prime Minister Ehud Olmert officially seals off the Gaza Strip following the kidnapping of IDF Corporal Gilad Shalit.
"By my order and that of the Defense Minister, the Gaza Strip is closed by sea and by land."
- Palestinian terrorists announce they will not provide any information about Shalit unless Israel agreed to release PA prisoners who are under 18 or female.
- Dozens of IDF tanks and other armored vehicles gather near northern Gaza in preparation for a possible operation the Gaza Strip. Thousands of soldiers from the Golani and Givati brigades are also converging on the area as well as tons of logistic equipment, mobile toilets, showers, and food.
(Hana Levi Julian, "Gaza Sealed Off, IDF Buildup at the Border," IsraelNationalNews, June 26, 2006).
June 26, 2006:
- Palestinian terrorists fire a Qassam rocket at the Israeli city of Sderot. Four civilians are lightly wounded from shrapnel and a number of residents suffer from shock. The impact causes a blackout in the area.
- Palestinian terrorists fire a Qassam rocket at Kibbutz Kerem Shalom.
(Shmulik Haddad, "Qassam Falls in Sderot; Man Lightly Wounded," YnetNews, June 26, 2006; "Qassam Rocket Lands in Western Negev; No Injuries," YnetNews, June 26, 2006; Josh Brannon, "Kassam Hits Sderot; Four Wounded by Shrapnel," Jerusalem Post, June 26, 2006).
- Palestinian terrorists fire a Qassam rocket at the Israeli city of Sderot. Four civilians are lightly wounded from shrapnel and a number of residents suffer from shock. The impact causes a blackout in the area.
- Palestinian terrorists fire a Qassam rocket at Kibbutz Kerem Shalom.
(Shmulik Haddad, "Qassam Falls in Sderot; Man Lightly Wounded," YnetNews, June 26, 2006; "Qassam Rocket Lands in Western Negev; No Injuries," YnetNews, June 26, 2006; Josh Brannon, "Kassam Hits Sderot; Four Wounded by Shrapnel," Jerusalem Post, June 26, 2006).
June 25, 2006:
Fatah announces the development of chemical and biological weapons.
"With the help of Allah, we are pleased to say that we succeeded in developing over 20 different types of biological and chemical weapons, this after a three-year effort...We say to (Prime Minister Ehud) Olmert and (Defense Minister Amir) Peretz: Your threats of invasion do not frighten us. We will surprise you with new weapons you have not faced until now. As soon as an IDF soldier sets foot on Gazan land, we will respond with a new weapon."
The organization noted it would not hesitate to use the substances, adding that they can be placed on rockets similar to those fired at Israeli communities surrounding Gaza.
"If Israel invades Gaza, we will declare open warfare without limits, as long as that is what the occupier wants..."
(Roee Nahmias, "Al-Aqsa Brigades: Chemical Warfare if Israel Invades Gaza," YnetNews, June 25, 2006).
Fatah announces the development of chemical and biological weapons.
"With the help of Allah, we are pleased to say that we succeeded in developing over 20 different types of biological and chemical weapons, this after a three-year effort...We say to (Prime Minister Ehud) Olmert and (Defense Minister Amir) Peretz: Your threats of invasion do not frighten us. We will surprise you with new weapons you have not faced until now. As soon as an IDF soldier sets foot on Gazan land, we will respond with a new weapon."
The organization noted it would not hesitate to use the substances, adding that they can be placed on rockets similar to those fired at Israeli communities surrounding Gaza.
"If Israel invades Gaza, we will declare open warfare without limits, as long as that is what the occupier wants..."
(Roee Nahmias, "Al-Aqsa Brigades: Chemical Warfare if Israel Invades Gaza," YnetNews, June 25, 2006).
June 25, 2006:
Two IDF soldiers are killed and another kidnapped when Hamas and other Palestinian terrorist groups, including the Army of Islam, attack an IDF position near the Gaza Strip border (Kerem Shalom).
The two soldiers were killed when Palestinian terrorists fired an anti-tank missile at their tank.
According to the IDF, "The eight or so [terrorists] involved in the attack reached the post through a tunnel dug under the border...They divided into three cells. One attacked an armored personnel carrier. The APC was empty. Another group attacked a tank with grenades...causing two deaths and one serious injury. Another two attacked another position with gunfire..."
The PRC terrorist group stated that two of their operatives were killed in the attack - eliminated by IDF fire as they climbed up the side of the position.
Residents of the Israeli communities of Kerem Shalom, Yuval, Avshalom and Yated, which are located close to the site of the attack were told to stay indoors.
(Amos Harel and Avi Issacharoff, "Arab Diplomats: Kidnapped Soldier in Good Health," Ha'aretz, June 25, 2006).
Two IDF soldiers are killed and another kidnapped when Hamas and other Palestinian terrorist groups, including the Army of Islam, attack an IDF position near the Gaza Strip border (Kerem Shalom).
The two soldiers were killed when Palestinian terrorists fired an anti-tank missile at their tank.
According to the IDF, "The eight or so [terrorists] involved in the attack reached the post through a tunnel dug under the border...They divided into three cells. One attacked an armored personnel carrier. The APC was empty. Another group attacked a tank with grenades...causing two deaths and one serious injury. Another two attacked another position with gunfire..."
The PRC terrorist group stated that two of their operatives were killed in the attack - eliminated by IDF fire as they climbed up the side of the position.
Residents of the Israeli communities of Kerem Shalom, Yuval, Avshalom and Yated, which are located close to the site of the attack were told to stay indoors.
(Amos Harel and Avi Issacharoff, "Arab Diplomats: Kidnapped Soldier in Good Health," Ha'aretz, June 25, 2006).
June 24, 2006:
IDF Military Intelligence determines that the PA has transferred missile production and launching facilities to residential areas in the northern Gaza Strip in an effort to prevent air strikes.
Missiles have been produced in Beit Hanoun, Beit Lahiya and Jabalya.
According to Israel Air Force commander Maj. Gen. Eliezer Shkedy, "Lately, we can see that terror cells have changed their operational tactics...In heavily-populated areas, they manufacture the Qassams, transport them and fire them in the yards of homes. Their exposure is very brief in an effort to keep away from our fire."
("PA Fires Missiles From Gaza Homes," Middle East Newsline, June 24, 2006).
IDF Military Intelligence determines that the PA has transferred missile production and launching facilities to residential areas in the northern Gaza Strip in an effort to prevent air strikes.
Missiles have been produced in Beit Hanoun, Beit Lahiya and Jabalya.
According to Israel Air Force commander Maj. Gen. Eliezer Shkedy, "Lately, we can see that terror cells have changed their operational tactics...In heavily-populated areas, they manufacture the Qassams, transport them and fire them in the yards of homes. Their exposure is very brief in an effort to keep away from our fire."
("PA Fires Missiles From Gaza Homes," Middle East Newsline, June 24, 2006).
June 24, 2006:
IDF forces enter the Gaza Strip and arrest two wanted Hamas terrorist in Rafah.
According to the IDF, Mustafa and Osama Muamar were involved in firing Qassam rockets at Israel.
(Amos Harel and Avi Issacharoff, "IDF Carries Out First Arrest in Gaza Strip Since Pullout," Ha'aretz, June 24, 2006).
IDF forces enter the Gaza Strip and arrest two wanted Hamas terrorist in Rafah.
According to the IDF, Mustafa and Osama Muamar were involved in firing Qassam rockets at Israel.
(Amos Harel and Avi Issacharoff, "IDF Carries Out First Arrest in Gaza Strip Since Pullout," Ha'aretz, June 24, 2006).
June 23, 2006:
- Palestinian terrorists fire three Qassam rockets at the Israeli city of Sderot.
- Palestinian terrorists fire a mortar at the Israeli community of Kerem Shalom, along the Gaza Strip Border.
(Amos Harel and Avi Issacharoff, "Qassams Continue as Olmert Vows to Keep Up Assassinations," Ha'aretz, June 23, 2006).
- Palestinian terrorists fire three Qassam rockets at the Israeli city of Sderot.
- Palestinian terrorists fire a mortar at the Israeli community of Kerem Shalom, along the Gaza Strip Border.
(Amos Harel and Avi Issacharoff, "Qassams Continue as Olmert Vows to Keep Up Assassinations," Ha'aretz, June 23, 2006).
June 22, 2006:
- Palestinian terrorists fire a Qassam rocket at the western Negev. The impact damages a greenhouse.
- Palestinian terrorists set fire to trees near the Gush Etzion (West Bank) community of Bat Ayin for the fourth time in eight days.
- Palestinian terrorists attack IDF forces operating in Ramallah. IDF forces return fire, eliminating a Palestinian terrorist who was a (Fatah) intelligence officer in the Palestinian Authority (PA).
- The Israeli Navy prevents an attempt to smuggle weapons from Egypt to the Gaza Strip via the sea.
(Hanan Greenberg, "Qassam Rocket Lands in Western Negev; No Injuries," YnetNews, June 22, 2006; "Arabs Try to Burn Down Bat Ayin Houses," IsraelNationalNews, June 22, 2006; "IDF Kills Armed PA Intelligence Officer in Ramallah Gunfight," IsraelNationalNews, June 22, 2006; "Navy Prevents Weapons Smuggling Into Gaza," IsraelNationalNews, June 22, 2006).
- Palestinian terrorists fire a Qassam rocket at the western Negev. The impact damages a greenhouse.
- Palestinian terrorists set fire to trees near the Gush Etzion (West Bank) community of Bat Ayin for the fourth time in eight days.
- Palestinian terrorists attack IDF forces operating in Ramallah. IDF forces return fire, eliminating a Palestinian terrorist who was a (Fatah) intelligence officer in the Palestinian Authority (PA).
- The Israeli Navy prevents an attempt to smuggle weapons from Egypt to the Gaza Strip via the sea.
(Hanan Greenberg, "Qassam Rocket Lands in Western Negev; No Injuries," YnetNews, June 22, 2006; "Arabs Try to Burn Down Bat Ayin Houses," IsraelNationalNews, June 22, 2006; "IDF Kills Armed PA Intelligence Officer in Ramallah Gunfight," IsraelNationalNews, June 22, 2006; "Navy Prevents Weapons Smuggling Into Gaza," IsraelNationalNews, June 22, 2006).
June 21, 2006:
- Palestinian terrorists fire at IDF forces in the village of Anata, southeast of Ramallah.
- The IAF targets and destroys a Qassam rocket launcher identified near Bei Hanoun, in the northern Gaza Strip.
- IDF forces eliminate a top (Fatah) Tanzim terrorist in Nablus. Fatah terrorist, Daud Katuni, dispatched a suicide bomber to Kadumim in March 2006.
("Enemy Gunmen Attack IDF Patrol," IsraelNationalNews, June 21, 2006; "IAF Fires at Rocket Launcher," IsraelNationalNews, June 21, 2006; "IDF Downs Top Terrorist in Shechem," IsraelNationalNews, June 21, 2006).
- Palestinian terrorists fire at IDF forces in the village of Anata, southeast of Ramallah.
- The IAF targets and destroys a Qassam rocket launcher identified near Bei Hanoun, in the northern Gaza Strip.
- IDF forces eliminate a top (Fatah) Tanzim terrorist in Nablus. Fatah terrorist, Daud Katuni, dispatched a suicide bomber to Kadumim in March 2006.
("Enemy Gunmen Attack IDF Patrol," IsraelNationalNews, June 21, 2006; "IAF Fires at Rocket Launcher," IsraelNationalNews, June 21, 2006; "IDF Downs Top Terrorist in Shechem," IsraelNationalNews, June 21, 2006).
June 20, 2006:
- MK Michael Melchior, Chairman of the Knesset Education Committee, plans to seek NIS 160 million from the Education Ministry budget to protect schools in Sderot and neighboring communities. To date, NIS 40 million has already been allotted to protect kindergartens and elementary schools in the Sderot area.
- Palestinian terrorists fire a Qassam rocket at Sderot.
- Palestinian terrorists fire a Qassam rocket at the western Negev, near Kibbutz Gavim.
(Nissan Ratzlav-Katz, "Sderot Protests Continue - As Do Rocket Attacks," IsraelNationalNews, June 20, 2006; "Terrorists Fire Rocket into Western Negev," IsraelNationalNews, June 20, 2006).
- MK Michael Melchior, Chairman of the Knesset Education Committee, plans to seek NIS 160 million from the Education Ministry budget to protect schools in Sderot and neighboring communities. To date, NIS 40 million has already been allotted to protect kindergartens and elementary schools in the Sderot area.
- Palestinian terrorists fire a Qassam rocket at Sderot.
- Palestinian terrorists fire a Qassam rocket at the western Negev, near Kibbutz Gavim.
(Nissan Ratzlav-Katz, "Sderot Protests Continue - As Do Rocket Attacks," IsraelNationalNews, June 20, 2006; "Terrorists Fire Rocket into Western Negev," IsraelNationalNews, June 20, 2006).
June 20, 2006:
- The IAF targets a car traveling in the Sheikh Radwan quarter of northern Gaza City. Imad Abu-Hamed, an intelligence officer in the Palestinian Police and a Popular Resistance Committees (PRC) terrorist, is wounded in the strike.
- Fatah responds to the strike by calling "on all our fighters to act and hit the enemy so that it hurts, in every place, so that it knows that the blood of our martyrs is dear. We declare war on Sderot and on all the Zionist settlements."
(Avi Issacharoff and Amos Harel, "Two Palestinian Siblings, 1 Teen Killed in IAF Strike in Gaza City," Ha'aretz, June 20, 2006; Ali Waked, "Fatah Declares War on Sderot," YnetNews, June 20, 2006).
- The IAF targets a car traveling in the Sheikh Radwan quarter of northern Gaza City. Imad Abu-Hamed, an intelligence officer in the Palestinian Police and a Popular Resistance Committees (PRC) terrorist, is wounded in the strike.
- Fatah responds to the strike by calling "on all our fighters to act and hit the enemy so that it hurts, in every place, so that it knows that the blood of our martyrs is dear. We declare war on Sderot and on all the Zionist settlements."
(Avi Issacharoff and Amos Harel, "Two Palestinian Siblings, 1 Teen Killed in IAF Strike in Gaza City," Ha'aretz, June 20, 2006; Ali Waked, "Fatah Declares War on Sderot," YnetNews, June 20, 2006).
June 19, 2006:
- Palestinian terrorists fire two Qassam rockets at the Israeli city of Sderot during a visit by President Katsav and Defense Minister Amir Peretz. One woman is lightly injured in the attack.
- Palestinian terrorists open fire against an Israeli bus traveling north of Ofrah (Samaria/West Bank), injuring 6 female civilians.
- IDF forces detect a number of bombs planted along the Gaza-Israel border, north of Kerem Shalom.
- IDF forces recover a cache of weapons south of Mt. Hebron (in the Palestinian village of Dir al-Asal). The cache included: an air rifle, 25 firebombs, an IDF flak jacket, an improvised firearm and ammunition.
(DebkaFile, June 19, 2006; "Update on Shooting Attack," IsraelNationalNews, June 19, 2006; "Bombs Found Along Gaza Border," IsraelNationalNews, June 19, 2006; "Large Cache of Weapons Recovered," IsraelNationalNews, June 19, 2006).
- Palestinian terrorists fire two Qassam rockets at the Israeli city of Sderot during a visit by President Katsav and Defense Minister Amir Peretz. One woman is lightly injured in the attack.
- Palestinian terrorists open fire against an Israeli bus traveling north of Ofrah (Samaria/West Bank), injuring 6 female civilians.
- IDF forces detect a number of bombs planted along the Gaza-Israel border, north of Kerem Shalom.
- IDF forces recover a cache of weapons south of Mt. Hebron (in the Palestinian village of Dir al-Asal). The cache included: an air rifle, 25 firebombs, an IDF flak jacket, an improvised firearm and ammunition.
(DebkaFile, June 19, 2006; "Update on Shooting Attack," IsraelNationalNews, June 19, 2006; "Bombs Found Along Gaza Border," IsraelNationalNews, June 19, 2006; "Large Cache of Weapons Recovered," IsraelNationalNews, June 19, 2006).
June 19, 2006:
The Palestinian Authority awaits aircraft and combat vehicles from Iran.
Palestinian Foreign Minister Mahmoud Zahar says Iran is preparing to deliver two aircraft and 300 vehicles to the PA - and would soon send the platforms to the Gaza Strip.
Officials note the platforms would include helicopters as well as cars for the police and security forces.
Iran has also pledged $50 million to the PA.
("PA Awaits Iranian Aircraft," Middle East Newsline, June 18, 2006).
The Palestinian Authority awaits aircraft and combat vehicles from Iran.
Palestinian Foreign Minister Mahmoud Zahar says Iran is preparing to deliver two aircraft and 300 vehicles to the PA - and would soon send the platforms to the Gaza Strip.
Officials note the platforms would include helicopters as well as cars for the police and security forces.
Iran has also pledged $50 million to the PA.
("PA Awaits Iranian Aircraft," Middle East Newsline, June 18, 2006).
June 18-19, 2006:
- Sderot's municipal council announces it will seal off the city's entrance for a 24-hour period in protest of continuing Qassam rocket attacks by Palestinian terrorists against the western Negev city.
- Palestinian terrorists fire a rocket that impacts near Sderot's public library.
- Palestinian terrorists in the Gaza Strip fire two Qassam rockets at southern Israel, leaving sections of Sderot without electricity for several hours.
- A second Qassam fired at the western Negev lands near the border fence.
(Avi Issacharoff, Yuval Azoulay, and Mijal Grinberg, "Sderot to Shut Down for 24 Hours in Protest Over Qassams," Ha'aretz, June 19, 2006).
- Sderot's municipal council announces it will seal off the city's entrance for a 24-hour period in protest of continuing Qassam rocket attacks by Palestinian terrorists against the western Negev city.
- Palestinian terrorists fire a rocket that impacts near Sderot's public library.
- Palestinian terrorists in the Gaza Strip fire two Qassam rockets at southern Israel, leaving sections of Sderot without electricity for several hours.
- A second Qassam fired at the western Negev lands near the border fence.
(Avi Issacharoff, Yuval Azoulay, and Mijal Grinberg, "Sderot to Shut Down for 24 Hours in Protest Over Qassams," Ha'aretz, June 19, 2006).
June 18, 2006:
Ha'aretz reports Shin Bet chief Yuval Diskin told the Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee that weapons smuggling from Egypt into the Gaza Strip has increased signifcantly since the IDF withdrew on September 12, 2005.
Palestinian security sources say smuggling has reached an unprecedented scope because there is no preventive activity on the Palestinian side.
Contraband materiel includes 11 tons of TNT, 3 million rifle bullets, approximatelt 10,000 rifles, 1,600 guns, 65 rocket propelled grenade launchers, 430 RPG shells and shoulder-launched missiles.
(Avi Issacharof, "Security sources: Weapons Smuggling from Egypt into Gaza has Ballooned," Ha'aretz, June 18, 2006).
Ha'aretz reports Shin Bet chief Yuval Diskin told the Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee that weapons smuggling from Egypt into the Gaza Strip has increased signifcantly since the IDF withdrew on September 12, 2005.
Palestinian security sources say smuggling has reached an unprecedented scope because there is no preventive activity on the Palestinian side.
Contraband materiel includes 11 tons of TNT, 3 million rifle bullets, approximatelt 10,000 rifles, 1,600 guns, 65 rocket propelled grenade launchers, 430 RPG shells and shoulder-launched missiles.
(Avi Issacharof, "Security sources: Weapons Smuggling from Egypt into Gaza has Ballooned," Ha'aretz, June 18, 2006).
June 18, 2006:
Amos Gilad, an IDF intelligence officer (who now heads the political department of the Defense Ministry), tells Army Radio that Qassam rocket attacks against Israel can be perceived as an attempt to murder.
Speaking on Army Radio, he stated, "It is not fire. You can call it an 'attempted murder of civilians.' These are rockets that are fired in order to kill civilians, [or] to put it more correctly, to murder them. This is a very severe thing, something that no state can tolerate in any way."
("Intelligence Expert: Kassam Attacks Are 'Attempted Murder'," IsraelNationalNews, June 18, 2006).
Amos Gilad, an IDF intelligence officer (who now heads the political department of the Defense Ministry), tells Army Radio that Qassam rocket attacks against Israel can be perceived as an attempt to murder.
Speaking on Army Radio, he stated, "It is not fire. You can call it an 'attempted murder of civilians.' These are rockets that are fired in order to kill civilians, [or] to put it more correctly, to murder them. This is a very severe thing, something that no state can tolerate in any way."
("Intelligence Expert: Kassam Attacks Are 'Attempted Murder'," IsraelNationalNews, June 18, 2006).
June 17, 2006:
Hamas demands a probe into the shipment of 1,000 semi-automatic rifles that Israel shipped to the PA via Jordan.
Hamas accuses the United States and Israel of bringing in the guns "to fan a civil war" among Arabs.
("Hamas Wants Probe on Rifles, Abbas Denies They Arrived," IsraelNationalNews, June 17, 2006).
Hamas demands a probe into the shipment of 1,000 semi-automatic rifles that Israel shipped to the PA via Jordan.
Hamas accuses the United States and Israel of bringing in the guns "to fan a civil war" among Arabs.
("Hamas Wants Probe on Rifles, Abbas Denies They Arrived," IsraelNationalNews, June 17, 2006).
June 16, 2006:
The IAF strikes an Islamic Jihad terrorist cell preparing to launch rocket attacks against Israel and eliminates two Islamic Jihad terrorists. It should be noted that Palestinian terrorists fired over 120 rockets at Israeli targets in the past week.
("IDF Kills Two Islamic Jihad Rocket Terrorists," IsraelNationalNews, June 17, 2006).
The IAF strikes an Islamic Jihad terrorist cell preparing to launch rocket attacks against Israel and eliminates two Islamic Jihad terrorists. It should be noted that Palestinian terrorists fired over 120 rockets at Israeli targets in the past week.
("IDF Kills Two Islamic Jihad Rocket Terrorists," IsraelNationalNews, June 17, 2006).
June 16, 2006:
Ze'ev Schiff of Ha'aretz: writes "So far, the IDF has failed in its war against the rocket launchers in Gaza. Here and there, launching crews are struck. Sometimes, innocent civilians are also hurt, as happened this week, when a vehicle carrying missiles was struck in the heart of Gaza City. On the other hand, the IDF has managed to eliminate neither the workshops where the rockets are made nor the lathes, both of which are limited in number. The rocket warehouses and the engineers who design the rockets have not been hurt.
The result is that the security of residents of communities near Gaza, including Sderot, deteriorated after the disengagement. The IDF did not properly anticipate this development, whose significance is an erosion of Israel's deterrent power against those who use rockets. What should bother us are the lessons that will be learned by Hezbollah, which controls an enormous array of rockets deployed in Lebanon. The failure to deal with the Qassam rockets is an invitation to Hezbollah to provoke Israel..."
(Ze'ev Schiff, "The IDF on a Tightrope," Ha'aretz, June 16, 2006).
Ze'ev Schiff of Ha'aretz: writes "So far, the IDF has failed in its war against the rocket launchers in Gaza. Here and there, launching crews are struck. Sometimes, innocent civilians are also hurt, as happened this week, when a vehicle carrying missiles was struck in the heart of Gaza City. On the other hand, the IDF has managed to eliminate neither the workshops where the rockets are made nor the lathes, both of which are limited in number. The rocket warehouses and the engineers who design the rockets have not been hurt.
The result is that the security of residents of communities near Gaza, including Sderot, deteriorated after the disengagement. The IDF did not properly anticipate this development, whose significance is an erosion of Israel's deterrent power against those who use rockets. What should bother us are the lessons that will be learned by Hezbollah, which controls an enormous array of rockets deployed in Lebanon. The failure to deal with the Qassam rockets is an invitation to Hezbollah to provoke Israel..."
(Ze'ev Schiff, "The IDF on a Tightrope," Ha'aretz, June 16, 2006).
June 16, 2006:
Palestinian terrorists fire two Qassam rockets at Moshav Shuva, hitting a greenhouse. Moshav Shuva is located deep inside Israel (over six kilometers from Gaza), near Kfar Maimon and five kilometers west of Netivot.
A Qassam was last fired at Shuva in December.
(Hillel Fendel, "Seven Kassams Since Last Night," IsraelNationalNews, June 16, 2006," IsraelNationalNews, June 16, 2006).
Palestinian terrorists fire two Qassam rockets at Moshav Shuva, hitting a greenhouse. Moshav Shuva is located deep inside Israel (over six kilometers from Gaza), near Kfar Maimon and five kilometers west of Netivot.
A Qassam was last fired at Shuva in December.
(Hillel Fendel, "Seven Kassams Since Last Night," IsraelNationalNews, June 16, 2006," IsraelNationalNews, June 16, 2006).
June 15-16, 2006:
- IAF planes eliminate three terrorists attempting to plant a bomb along the Gaza Strip security fence near Kissufim.
- Palestinian terrorists fire five Qassam rockets at Sderot and the western Negev. Two impact near Kerem Shalom, south of Rafah, while another Qassam falls in a field to the north, near Sderot. Two others land in Gaza itself.
("IDF Kills Three Terrorists at Gaza Separation Barrier," IsraelNationalNews, June 15, 2006; "Kassam Rocket Attacks Continue Without Artillery Retaliation," IsraelNationalNews, June 16, 2006; Hillel Fendel, " Seven Kassams Since Last Night," IsraelNationalNews, June 16, 2006).
- IAF planes eliminate three terrorists attempting to plant a bomb along the Gaza Strip security fence near Kissufim.
- Palestinian terrorists fire five Qassam rockets at Sderot and the western Negev. Two impact near Kerem Shalom, south of Rafah, while another Qassam falls in a field to the north, near Sderot. Two others land in Gaza itself.
("IDF Kills Three Terrorists at Gaza Separation Barrier," IsraelNationalNews, June 15, 2006; "Kassam Rocket Attacks Continue Without Artillery Retaliation," IsraelNationalNews, June 16, 2006; Hillel Fendel, " Seven Kassams Since Last Night," IsraelNationalNews, June 16, 2006).
June 15, 2006:
- Islamic Jihad terrorists fire a salvo of Qassam rockets into the western Negev city of Sderot, wounding three people.
Two of the rockets slam into an open area near the city, a third hits near the city's entrance and the fourth impacts in the Sderot industrial zone, damaging a factory.
One Israeli sustains minor facial wounds from shrapnel when the factory roof collapses from the rocket's impact. Two other people are treated for shock.
- Another three rockets are fired into Israel.
- Palestinian terrorists kidnap an Israeli girl near the Rahelim Junction in Samaria. The girls' friend flees the scene and reports the abduction to the police. The girl is found 20 minutes later south of the Israeli community of Eli.
(Avi Issacharoff, Amos Harel and Mijal Grinberg, "Three Wounded as Islamic Jihad Fires Qassams Rockets at Sderot," Ha'aretz, June 15, 2006; Efrat Weiss, "Samaria: Girl Abducted by Palestinians Released," YnetNews, June 15, 2006).
- Islamic Jihad terrorists fire a salvo of Qassam rockets into the western Negev city of Sderot, wounding three people.
Two of the rockets slam into an open area near the city, a third hits near the city's entrance and the fourth impacts in the Sderot industrial zone, damaging a factory.
One Israeli sustains minor facial wounds from shrapnel when the factory roof collapses from the rocket's impact. Two other people are treated for shock.
- Another three rockets are fired into Israel.
- Palestinian terrorists kidnap an Israeli girl near the Rahelim Junction in Samaria. The girls' friend flees the scene and reports the abduction to the police. The girl is found 20 minutes later south of the Israeli community of Eli.
(Avi Issacharoff, Amos Harel and Mijal Grinberg, "Three Wounded as Islamic Jihad Fires Qassams Rockets at Sderot," Ha'aretz, June 15, 2006; Efrat Weiss, "Samaria: Girl Abducted by Palestinians Released," YnetNews, June 15, 2006).
June 14, 2006:
The IDF Home Front Command has determined that 24 schools in the western Negev are in need of reinforcement against Qassam rockets. Two will have to be completely re-built.
The cost of reinforcing the roofs of the 22 remaining schools will total NIS 165 million.
Half of the schools are in Sderot and the other half are located in communities located within range of Qassam rockets.
(Yaakov Katz, "24 Negev Schools Need Protection," Jerusalem Post, June 14, 2006).
The IDF Home Front Command has determined that 24 schools in the western Negev are in need of reinforcement against Qassam rockets. Two will have to be completely re-built.
The cost of reinforcing the roofs of the 22 remaining schools will total NIS 165 million.
Half of the schools are in Sderot and the other half are located in communities located within range of Qassam rockets.
(Yaakov Katz, "24 Negev Schools Need Protection," Jerusalem Post, June 14, 2006).
June 14, 2006:
- Palestinian terrorists attempt to fire two Qassam rockets at Israel. Sources report that both rockets explode prior to launch.
- Palestinian terrorists fire a Qassam rocket from northern Gaza. The rocket lands near a strategic facility in the Ashkelon industrial zone.
- A senior IDF officer presents three alternatives for dealing with Qassam rocket fire to the Knesset's Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee: Targeting Palestinian infrastructures, sending troops into northern Gaza and continuing covert activity against Qasssam rocket launchers.
(Ali Waked, "2 Qassams Explode in Gaza During Launch Attempt," YnetNews, June 14, 2006; Shmulik Hadad, "Qassam Lands Near Ashkelon Strategic Facility; No Injuries," YnetNews, June 14, 2006; Ilan Marciano, "Senior Officer Presents Alternatives to Fighting Qassams," YnetNews, June 14, 2006).
- Palestinian terrorists attempt to fire two Qassam rockets at Israel. Sources report that both rockets explode prior to launch.
- Palestinian terrorists fire a Qassam rocket from northern Gaza. The rocket lands near a strategic facility in the Ashkelon industrial zone.
- A senior IDF officer presents three alternatives for dealing with Qassam rocket fire to the Knesset's Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee: Targeting Palestinian infrastructures, sending troops into northern Gaza and continuing covert activity against Qasssam rocket launchers.
(Ali Waked, "2 Qassams Explode in Gaza During Launch Attempt," YnetNews, June 14, 2006; Shmulik Hadad, "Qassam Lands Near Ashkelon Strategic Facility; No Injuries," YnetNews, June 14, 2006; Ilan Marciano, "Senior Officer Presents Alternatives to Fighting Qassams," YnetNews, June 14, 2006).
June 14, 2006:
- A Hamas terrorist is shot and killed outside his home in the Gaza town of Khan Younis after Hamas gunmen shoot Rifat Kulab, a PA security commander in the city.
- IDF forces kill Mohamed al-Wash, an Al Aqsa Martyrs Brigades terrorist, during patrols in Jenin.
("Hamas Militant Killed in Gaza After ambush on Security Chief," Ha'aretz, June 14, 2006; "IDF Kills Al Aqsa Terrorist in Jenin," IsraelNationalNews, June 14. 2006).
- A Hamas terrorist is shot and killed outside his home in the Gaza town of Khan Younis after Hamas gunmen shoot Rifat Kulab, a PA security commander in the city.
- IDF forces kill Mohamed al-Wash, an Al Aqsa Martyrs Brigades terrorist, during patrols in Jenin.
("Hamas Militant Killed in Gaza After ambush on Security Chief," Ha'aretz, June 14, 2006; "IDF Kills Al Aqsa Terrorist in Jenin," IsraelNationalNews, June 14. 2006).
June 13, 2006:
- Palestinian terrorist gunmen moderately wound an Israeli security guard stationed near the northern Jerusalem Atarot industrial zone.
- The IAF targets a terroist cell in the Zetun area of the northern Gaza Strip. The cell was preparing to launch Grad-type rockets against Israeli targets.
("Update: Security Guard Moderately Wounded in Shooting," IsraelNationalNews, June 13, 2006; "IDF Scores Direct Hit on Terror Cell in Gaza City," IsraelNationalNews, June 13, 2006).
- Palestinian terrorist gunmen moderately wound an Israeli security guard stationed near the northern Jerusalem Atarot industrial zone.
- The IAF targets a terroist cell in the Zetun area of the northern Gaza Strip. The cell was preparing to launch Grad-type rockets against Israeli targets.
("Update: Security Guard Moderately Wounded in Shooting," IsraelNationalNews, June 13, 2006; "IDF Scores Direct Hit on Terror Cell in Gaza City," IsraelNationalNews, June 13, 2006).
June 12, 2006:
Almost half the parents and one-third of the children in Sderot suffer from post-traumatic stress.
According to Professor Molly Lahad, director of the Mashabim center of Tel Hai Academic College, "15 percent of the children, ages two and up, are suffering from severe post-traumatic stress syndrome, which expresses itself in real difficulties in functioning."
"Children age 5 to 13 go back to bed-wetting and school-age children go back to sleeping with their parents," notes Dalia Yosef, a community worker in Sderot and the Sha'ar Hanegev Regional Council. "We see avoidance behavior very great fear of going outdoors freely, and fear of going to school. The smallest noise, even the slamming of a door, makes them jump..."
Yosef says the children feel that something terrible is about to happen and many exhibit eating and sleeping disorders, and attention-deficit problems in school. "We see great distress in the children, which shows up in very great dependence on the parents and separation anxiety. Some children have started to stutter."
According to the study, 18 percent of the children suffer slight to moderate degrees of post-traumatic stress, which includes insomnia, headaches and the inability to concentrate.
The study also illustrates that each child suffering from post-traumatic stress has at least one parent who is also afflicted, although not all parents with the condition have children suffering from it.
Mashabim and the Israel Center for the Treatment of psychotrauma in Jerusalem have been assisting the residents of Sderot for the past two years.
(Eli Ashkenazi, "Sderot's Children are Suffering Post-Traumatic Stress," Ha'aretz, June 12, 2006).
Almost half the parents and one-third of the children in Sderot suffer from post-traumatic stress.
According to Professor Molly Lahad, director of the Mashabim center of Tel Hai Academic College, "15 percent of the children, ages two and up, are suffering from severe post-traumatic stress syndrome, which expresses itself in real difficulties in functioning."
"Children age 5 to 13 go back to bed-wetting and school-age children go back to sleeping with their parents," notes Dalia Yosef, a community worker in Sderot and the Sha'ar Hanegev Regional Council. "We see avoidance behavior very great fear of going outdoors freely, and fear of going to school. The smallest noise, even the slamming of a door, makes them jump..."
Sderot
Ducking for cover
Yosef says the children feel that something terrible is about to happen and many exhibit eating and sleeping disorders, and attention-deficit problems in school. "We see great distress in the children, which shows up in very great dependence on the parents and separation anxiety. Some children have started to stutter."
According to the study, 18 percent of the children suffer slight to moderate degrees of post-traumatic stress, which includes insomnia, headaches and the inability to concentrate.
The study also illustrates that each child suffering from post-traumatic stress has at least one parent who is also afflicted, although not all parents with the condition have children suffering from it.
Mashabim and the Israel Center for the Treatment of psychotrauma in Jerusalem have been assisting the residents of Sderot for the past two years.
(Eli Ashkenazi, "Sderot's Children are Suffering Post-Traumatic Stress," Ha'aretz, June 12, 2006).
June 12, 2006:
Egypt accuses Hamas of training suicide bombers in the Sinai Peninsula.
According to Palestinian sources, the Egyptian claim was relayed during a recent meeting in Cairo.
During the meeting, Egyptian Interior Minister Habib Adly stated that authorities have gathered evidence of Hamas involvement in the training of at least two suicide bombers who blew themselves up at tourist sites in Sinai in April 2006.
"The meeting was very tense and Adly warned that unless certain actions were taken, Egypt would block the flow of Hamas officials through Sinai."
PA Interior Minister Said Siyam denied Hamas involvement in the training of Islamic terrorists in Sinai. However, Siyam acknowledged that the PA has failed to control the Egypt-Sinai border - which facilitates the flow of terrorists into the Gaza Strip.
("Egypt: Hamas Trains Sinai Bombers," Middle East Newsline, June 12, 2006).
Egypt accuses Hamas of training suicide bombers in the Sinai Peninsula.
According to Palestinian sources, the Egyptian claim was relayed during a recent meeting in Cairo.
During the meeting, Egyptian Interior Minister Habib Adly stated that authorities have gathered evidence of Hamas involvement in the training of at least two suicide bombers who blew themselves up at tourist sites in Sinai in April 2006.
"The meeting was very tense and Adly warned that unless certain actions were taken, Egypt would block the flow of Hamas officials through Sinai."
PA Interior Minister Said Siyam denied Hamas involvement in the training of Islamic terrorists in Sinai. However, Siyam acknowledged that the PA has failed to control the Egypt-Sinai border - which facilitates the flow of terrorists into the Gaza Strip.
("Egypt: Hamas Trains Sinai Bombers," Middle East Newsline, June 12, 2006).
June 12, 2006:
- Palestinian terrorists fire at least 18 Qassam rockets at Israel on Monday.
- One rocket hits a parked car and causes a fire.
- An Israeli woman is lightly injured by shrapnel, and another two women suffer shock.
- Two additional rockets impact near the adjacent industrial zone.
(Shmulik Hadad, "3 Injured After Rockets Hit Sderot," YnetNews, June 12, 2006).
- Palestinian terrorists fire at least 18 Qassam rockets at Israel on Monday.
- One rocket hits a parked car and causes a fire.
- An Israeli woman is lightly injured by shrapnel, and another two women suffer shock.
- Two additional rockets impact near the adjacent industrial zone.
(Shmulik Hadad, "3 Injured After Rockets Hit Sderot," YnetNews, June 12, 2006).
June 12, 2006:
- Fatah terrorists release a Hamas government official they abducted earlier in the evening during a violent rampage against the Hamas-led government.
Fatah members said they seized Khalil Rabai after attacking and setting fire to Hamas offices in Ramallah.
- Two Palestinians are killed and another 15 wounded in clashes between Hamas and Fatah terrorists in the Gaza Strip town of Rafah.
The shootout begins when Hamas gunmen, attending the funeral of a colleague killed in clashes with the rival Fatah party, fire at Fatah offices. Fatah members return fire, hitting a Hamas gunman, who dies on his way to the hospital.
Sympathizers of Fatah and Islamic Jihad then march to the security agency headquarters to demand an end to the standoff. Hamas terrorists fire rocket-propelled grenades and anti-tank rockets in response, killing a Fatah terrorist and tearing holes in the building.
At least 15 people were wounded in the clashes.
(Avi Issacharof, "Fatah Men Release Hamas Lawmaker Seized During Rampage," Ha'aretz, June 12, 2006).
- Fatah terrorists release a Hamas government official they abducted earlier in the evening during a violent rampage against the Hamas-led government.
Fatah members said they seized Khalil Rabai after attacking and setting fire to Hamas offices in Ramallah.
- Two Palestinians are killed and another 15 wounded in clashes between Hamas and Fatah terrorists in the Gaza Strip town of Rafah.
The shootout begins when Hamas gunmen, attending the funeral of a colleague killed in clashes with the rival Fatah party, fire at Fatah offices. Fatah members return fire, hitting a Hamas gunman, who dies on his way to the hospital.
Sympathizers of Fatah and Islamic Jihad then march to the security agency headquarters to demand an end to the standoff. Hamas terrorists fire rocket-propelled grenades and anti-tank rockets in response, killing a Fatah terrorist and tearing holes in the building.
At least 15 people were wounded in the clashes.
(Avi Issacharof, "Fatah Men Release Hamas Lawmaker Seized During Rampage," Ha'aretz, June 12, 2006).
June 12, 2006:
- Palestinian terrorists fire three Qassam rockets at the western Negev. One of the rockets impact near a gas station at the Gevim Junction, at the entrance to Sderot, while the other two fall in open areas in the city.
- 13 rockets land in the Sderot area between Sunday night and Monday morning.
(Shmulik Hadad, "Peretz: No Restraint is Infinite," YnetNews, June 12, 2006).
- Palestinian terrorists fire three Qassam rockets at the western Negev. One of the rockets impact near a gas station at the Gevim Junction, at the entrance to Sderot, while the other two fall in open areas in the city.
- 13 rockets land in the Sderot area between Sunday night and Monday morning.
(Shmulik Hadad, "Peretz: No Restraint is Infinite," YnetNews, June 12, 2006).
June 11, 2006:
YnetNews reports on the fear of Sderot residents.
- Six-year-old Diana Rafaes, clutching her mother Alamaz�s hand tightly, says "We went to school today, but they told is it was closed because a man was hurt in the Qassam attacks; so I went back home, and now I am with mom. When there�s a Qassam I run down from our apartment on the third floor to the second to hide until it�s over."
Her mother Alama says, "The children are afraid; we all are. This is a terrible situation. You can�t go to work in peace because there are hardly any jobs available; so you hold on and try to survive."
Mark Schneider, a local 12th grader, says "We haven�t studied regularly for the past four years. I don�t know how I managed to take the exams � you sit down and suddenly, in the middle of a matriculation exam � boom, a Qassam. And if there is no Qassam, you�re always fearful that one may land at any given moment. It�s simply terrible."
- IsraelNationalNews reports that schools in Sderot will be closed again on Monday as residents continue their protest against the government�s inability to halt the bombardment of their town by Palestinian terrorists from Gaza.
- The head of the IDF division that is charged with defending Sderot has decided to allocate psychologists to the school district to help alleviate distress. In addition, female soldiers will be sent to assist nursery school staff.
(Shmulik Hadad, "Sderot Declares Hunger Strike," YnetNews, June 11, 2006; "IDF Sends Psychologists to Sderot Schools," IsraelNationalNews, June 11, 2006).
Sderot
(Israel Channel 10)
YnetNews reports on the fear of Sderot residents.
- Six-year-old Diana Rafaes, clutching her mother Alamaz�s hand tightly, says "We went to school today, but they told is it was closed because a man was hurt in the Qassam attacks; so I went back home, and now I am with mom. When there�s a Qassam I run down from our apartment on the third floor to the second to hide until it�s over."
Her mother Alama says, "The children are afraid; we all are. This is a terrible situation. You can�t go to work in peace because there are hardly any jobs available; so you hold on and try to survive."
Mark Schneider, a local 12th grader, says "We haven�t studied regularly for the past four years. I don�t know how I managed to take the exams � you sit down and suddenly, in the middle of a matriculation exam � boom, a Qassam. And if there is no Qassam, you�re always fearful that one may land at any given moment. It�s simply terrible."
- IsraelNationalNews reports that schools in Sderot will be closed again on Monday as residents continue their protest against the government�s inability to halt the bombardment of their town by Palestinian terrorists from Gaza.
- The head of the IDF division that is charged with defending Sderot has decided to allocate psychologists to the school district to help alleviate distress. In addition, female soldiers will be sent to assist nursery school staff.
(Shmulik Hadad, "Sderot Declares Hunger Strike," YnetNews, June 11, 2006; "IDF Sends Psychologists to Sderot Schools," IsraelNationalNews, June 11, 2006).
June 11, 2006:
- One Israeli is critically wounded in a Qassam rocket attack against Sderot.
- Abu Oviyada, a spokesman for Hamas proclaims that, "We have decided to turn Sderot into a ghost town and we will not stop the fire rockets until they [the residents] leave."
- IAF planes fires a missile at a terrorist cell preparing to attack Israel with rockets. Two terrorists are killed.
- IDF soldiers intercept a Palestinian terrorist carrying 150 knives at a checkpoint near Tulkarm, east of Netanya.
- An Islamic Jihad terrorist dies following an explosion in his house (apparently a "work accident").
- Palestinian terrorists continue their rocket assault on Israel. The latest barrage hits a house and poultry barn at Kibbutz Nahal Oz, near the Gaza border. No injuries are reported.
- Almost 20 rockets have been fired at Israel since Saturday night
- Three more Qassam rockets are fired at the city of Sderot in the western Negev. On rocket explodes in the Nir Am cemetery.
- Sixty Qassam rockets have been fired at Israeli communities in the western Negev since Friday night.
- A 60 year old man is lightly injured by shrapnel from a Qassam rocket. Two women suffering from shock from another attack are taken to Barzilai Hospital.
- Palestinian terrorists fire a Qassam rocket fired at Kibbutz Nahal Oz in the western Negev.
("One Seriously Injured in Rocket Attack on Sderot," IsraelNationalNews, June 11, 2006; "Hamas Votes to Make Sderot 'Ghost Town'," IsraelNationalNews, June 11, 2006; "IDF Air Strike Kills Terrorist Rocket Launcher," IsraelNationalNews, June 11, 2006; "Soldiers Find 150 Knives at Checkpoint," IsraelNationalNews, June 11, 2006; "Terrorist Dies in Blast in His Gaza Home," IsraelNationalNews, June 11, 2006; "Rocket Attack Damages House, Poultry Barn," IsraelNationalNews, June 11, 2006; "Three More Rockets Fired at Sderot," IsraelNationalNews, June 11, 2006; "50 Kassams in Less than 48 Hours," IsraelNationalNews, June 11, 2006; "Sderot Resident Injured by Kassam Shrapnel," IsraelNationalNews, June 11, 2006; "Kassam Lands Near Kibbutz Nahal Oz," IsraelNationalNews, June 11, 2006; "60 Kassams Since Friday Night," IsraelNationalNews, June 11, 2006).
- One Israeli is critically wounded in a Qassam rocket attack against Sderot.
- Abu Oviyada, a spokesman for Hamas proclaims that, "We have decided to turn Sderot into a ghost town and we will not stop the fire rockets until they [the residents] leave."
- IAF planes fires a missile at a terrorist cell preparing to attack Israel with rockets. Two terrorists are killed.
- IDF soldiers intercept a Palestinian terrorist carrying 150 knives at a checkpoint near Tulkarm, east of Netanya.
- An Islamic Jihad terrorist dies following an explosion in his house (apparently a "work accident").
- Palestinian terrorists continue their rocket assault on Israel. The latest barrage hits a house and poultry barn at Kibbutz Nahal Oz, near the Gaza border. No injuries are reported.
- Almost 20 rockets have been fired at Israel since Saturday night
- Three more Qassam rockets are fired at the city of Sderot in the western Negev. On rocket explodes in the Nir Am cemetery.
- Sixty Qassam rockets have been fired at Israeli communities in the western Negev since Friday night.
- A 60 year old man is lightly injured by shrapnel from a Qassam rocket. Two women suffering from shock from another attack are taken to Barzilai Hospital.
- Palestinian terrorists fire a Qassam rocket fired at Kibbutz Nahal Oz in the western Negev.
("One Seriously Injured in Rocket Attack on Sderot," IsraelNationalNews, June 11, 2006; "Hamas Votes to Make Sderot 'Ghost Town'," IsraelNationalNews, June 11, 2006; "IDF Air Strike Kills Terrorist Rocket Launcher," IsraelNationalNews, June 11, 2006; "Soldiers Find 150 Knives at Checkpoint," IsraelNationalNews, June 11, 2006; "Terrorist Dies in Blast in His Gaza Home," IsraelNationalNews, June 11, 2006; "Rocket Attack Damages House, Poultry Barn," IsraelNationalNews, June 11, 2006; "Three More Rockets Fired at Sderot," IsraelNationalNews, June 11, 2006; "50 Kassams in Less than 48 Hours," IsraelNationalNews, June 11, 2006; "Sderot Resident Injured by Kassam Shrapnel," IsraelNationalNews, June 11, 2006; "Kassam Lands Near Kibbutz Nahal Oz," IsraelNationalNews, June 11, 2006; "60 Kassams Since Friday Night," IsraelNationalNews, June 11, 2006).
June 11, 2006:
Palestinian terrorists fire 11 Qassam rockets at Israel.
One rocket impacts in Ashkelon's industrial zone and another slams into a school.
Three Israelis are wounded in the barrage.
("Four Rocket Attacks, No Retaliation," IsraelNationalNews, June 11, 2006; "One Injured, Building Damaged in Kassam Attack," IsraelNationalNews, June 11, 2006; Shmlik Hadad, "11 Qassams Fired at Israel; 3 Wounded, YnetNews, June 11, 2006).
Palestinian terrorists fire 11 Qassam rockets at Israel.
One rocket impacts in Ashkelon's industrial zone and another slams into a school.
Three Israelis are wounded in the barrage.
("Four Rocket Attacks, No Retaliation," IsraelNationalNews, June 11, 2006; "One Injured, Building Damaged in Kassam Attack," IsraelNationalNews, June 11, 2006; Shmlik Hadad, "11 Qassams Fired at Israel; 3 Wounded, YnetNews, June 11, 2006).
June 11, 2006:
The Palestinian Authority (PA) frees Benjamin Fishbein, an American Jew who was kidnapped on June 10th by (Fatah) Al Aqsa Martyrs Brigades terrorists in order to win the freedom of jailed PA prisoners.
("PA Frees Kidnapped American Jew," IsraelNationalNews, June 11, 2006).
The Palestinian Authority (PA) frees Benjamin Fishbein, an American Jew who was kidnapped on June 10th by (Fatah) Al Aqsa Martyrs Brigades terrorists in order to win the freedom of jailed PA prisoners.
("PA Frees Kidnapped American Jew," IsraelNationalNews, June 11, 2006).
June 10, 2006:
Israeli Police Commissioner Moshe Karadi orders police forces to an advanced stage of alert. The order is given due to 90 warnings of impending terrorist attacks.
(Amos Harel, "Police Have 90 Warnings of Terror Attacks to Avenge Gaza Shelling," Ha'aretz, June 10, 2006).
Israeli Police Commissioner Moshe Karadi orders police forces to an advanced stage of alert. The order is given due to 90 warnings of impending terrorist attacks.
(Amos Harel, "Police Have 90 Warnings of Terror Attacks to Avenge Gaza Shelling," Ha'aretz, June 10, 2006).
June 10, 2006:
- Palestinian terrorists fire 17 Qassam rockets at Israel.
- Head of the IDF Gaza Division, Brig.-Gen. Aviv Kohavi, announces that the inquiry into the deaths of the seven Palestinian civilians in Gaza Friday (June 9) has not yet been completed.
According to Kohavi, the civilians were killed by an errant IDF shell or by Palestinian fire. Kohavi noted that the Palestinians are refusing to cooperate with the army's probe.
- Palestinian terrorists fire more then 25 mortar shells and rockets since Friday afternoon (June 9). Two rockets impact near kibbutzim in the northwestern Negev.
No injuries are reported in the barrage, but at least one kibbutz building is damaged. The IDF continues to fire artillery shells in an effort to reduce the attacks.
(Hanan Greenberg, "17th Qassam Rocket Today Lands in Kibbutz Nahal Oz," YnetNews, June 10, 2006; "IDF Officer: Gaza Civilians May Have Been Killed by Palestinian Fire," YnetNews, June 10, 2006; "More Than 25 Rockets, Shells Fired on Israel," IsraelNationalNews, June 10, 2006).
- Palestinian terrorists fire 17 Qassam rockets at Israel.
- Head of the IDF Gaza Division, Brig.-Gen. Aviv Kohavi, announces that the inquiry into the deaths of the seven Palestinian civilians in Gaza Friday (June 9) has not yet been completed.
According to Kohavi, the civilians were killed by an errant IDF shell or by Palestinian fire. Kohavi noted that the Palestinians are refusing to cooperate with the army's probe.
- Palestinian terrorists fire more then 25 mortar shells and rockets since Friday afternoon (June 9). Two rockets impact near kibbutzim in the northwestern Negev.
No injuries are reported in the barrage, but at least one kibbutz building is damaged. The IDF continues to fire artillery shells in an effort to reduce the attacks.
(Hanan Greenberg, "17th Qassam Rocket Today Lands in Kibbutz Nahal Oz," YnetNews, June 10, 2006; "IDF Officer: Gaza Civilians May Have Been Killed by Palestinian Fire," YnetNews, June 10, 2006; "More Than 25 Rockets, Shells Fired on Israel," IsraelNationalNews, June 10, 2006).
June 9, 2006:
- An IAF strike kills three Popular Resistance Committees (PRC) terrorists in Beit Hanun (Gaza Strip), just minutes after they fire a Qassam rocket into Israel.
- Palestinian terrorists fire four Qassam rockets at Israel.
(Amos Harel and Avi Issacharoff, "IAF Strike Kills 3 Militants Minutes After Qassam Fired," Ha'aretz, June 9, 2006).
- An IAF strike kills three Popular Resistance Committees (PRC) terrorists in Beit Hanun (Gaza Strip), just minutes after they fire a Qassam rocket into Israel.
- Palestinian terrorists fire four Qassam rockets at Israel.
(Amos Harel and Avi Issacharoff, "IAF Strike Kills 3 Militants Minutes After Qassam Fired," Ha'aretz, June 9, 2006).
June 8, 2006:
An IAF aircraft fires missiles at a Popular Resistance Committees (PRC) training camp in the southern Gaza Strip, killing four terrorists including Jamal Abu Sahamdana, head of the PRC and responsible for Qassam rockets attacks against Israel.
IDF sources confirm the attack, noting that Sahamdana and the other terrorists were in the midst of training for a terror attack against Israel.
Abu Samhadana was a key player in rocket attacks on Israel and a suspect in the fatal 2003 bombing of a US convoy in the Gaza Strip. He was recently appointed director general of the Hamas-led Interior Ministry.
Abu Abir, a spokesman for the Popular Resistance Committees vows revenge for attack.
"The Zionists and Israelis have opened the gates of hell by assassinating Abu Samhadana."
(Yaakov Katz, "IAF Kills PRC Head Sahamdana, 3 Others in Rafah," Jerusalem Post, June 8, 2006).
An IAF aircraft fires missiles at a Popular Resistance Committees (PRC) training camp in the southern Gaza Strip, killing four terrorists including Jamal Abu Sahamdana, head of the PRC and responsible for Qassam rockets attacks against Israel.
IDF sources confirm the attack, noting that Sahamdana and the other terrorists were in the midst of training for a terror attack against Israel.
Abu Samhadana was a key player in rocket attacks on Israel and a suspect in the fatal 2003 bombing of a US convoy in the Gaza Strip. He was recently appointed director general of the Hamas-led Interior Ministry.
Abu Abir, a spokesman for the Popular Resistance Committees vows revenge for attack.
"The Zionists and Israelis have opened the gates of hell by assassinating Abu Samhadana."
(Yaakov Katz, "IAF Kills PRC Head Sahamdana, 3 Others in Rafah," Jerusalem Post, June 8, 2006).
June 8, 2006:
The Hamas terrorist organization mourns al Qaeda terrorist leader Abu Musab al-Zarqawi.
"With hearts full of faith, Hamas commends brother-fighter Abu Musab...who was martyred at the hands of the savage crusade campaign which targets the Arab homeland, starting in Iraq..."
("Hamas Mourns Death of Al Zarqawi in 'Savage Crusade Campaign'," Reuters, June 8, 2006).
The Hamas terrorist organization mourns al Qaeda terrorist leader Abu Musab al-Zarqawi.
"With hearts full of faith, Hamas commends brother-fighter Abu Musab...who was martyred at the hands of the savage crusade campaign which targets the Arab homeland, starting in Iraq..."
("Hamas Mourns Death of Al Zarqawi in 'Savage Crusade Campaign'," Reuters, June 8, 2006).
June 8, 2006:
The black market price for weapons in Gaza skyrockets as Hamas and Fatah factions add new equipment to their arsenals.
The army protecting Palestinian Authority (PA) chairman Mahmoud Abbas currently conceals anti-tank rockets in backpacks of its militia men. The unit has also purchased four armored vehicles valued at $100,000 each.
Hamas is reportedly buying additional weapons and smuggling ammunition from Egypt.
("Hamas, Fatah in Arms Race," IsraelNationalNews, June 8, 2006).
The black market price for weapons in Gaza skyrockets as Hamas and Fatah factions add new equipment to their arsenals.
The army protecting Palestinian Authority (PA) chairman Mahmoud Abbas currently conceals anti-tank rockets in backpacks of its militia men. The unit has also purchased four armored vehicles valued at $100,000 each.
Hamas is reportedly buying additional weapons and smuggling ammunition from Egypt.
("Hamas, Fatah in Arms Race," IsraelNationalNews, June 8, 2006).
June 8, 2006:
Palestinian terrorists fire three Qassam rockets at southern Israel from Gaza in two separate attacks.
Two rockets impact in Kibbutz Gevim, one at the entrance to the community and the other near a regional school. Windows in nearby houses are broken by the blast and one woman suffers from shock.
"We heard a loud explosion and we understood it was a Qassam rocket...Panic broke out in the school and teachers calmed down the students."
A second rocket explodes in an open field outside the Amdocs factory at the Shaarei HaNegev industrial zone south of Ashkelon.
"We are prepared and we know what it sounds like and what to do...Many workers are Sderot residents, so we are used to the procedure. We returned to our routine and everyone is working as usual."
(Hana Levi Julian, "2 Kassam Attacks, Damage But No Injuries," IsraelNationalNews, June 8, 2006; Shmulik Hadad, "Qassam Hits Negev Community," YnetNews, June 8, 2006).
Palestinian terrorists fire three Qassam rockets at southern Israel from Gaza in two separate attacks.
Two rockets impact in Kibbutz Gevim, one at the entrance to the community and the other near a regional school. Windows in nearby houses are broken by the blast and one woman suffers from shock.
"We heard a loud explosion and we understood it was a Qassam rocket...Panic broke out in the school and teachers calmed down the students."
A second rocket explodes in an open field outside the Amdocs factory at the Shaarei HaNegev industrial zone south of Ashkelon.
"We are prepared and we know what it sounds like and what to do...Many workers are Sderot residents, so we are used to the procedure. We returned to our routine and everyone is working as usual."
(Hana Levi Julian, "2 Kassam Attacks, Damage But No Injuries," IsraelNationalNews, June 8, 2006; Shmulik Hadad, "Qassam Hits Negev Community," YnetNews, June 8, 2006).
June 8, 2006:
The IAF targets eight access routes to areas used by terrorists in Gaza for launching rocket attacks on Israeli targets in the Negev.
("Update: IDF Forces Struck 8 Access Routes in Gaza," IsraelNationalNews, June 8, 2006).
The IAF targets eight access routes to areas used by terrorists in Gaza for launching rocket attacks on Israeli targets in the Negev.
("Update: IDF Forces Struck 8 Access Routes in Gaza," IsraelNationalNews, June 8, 2006).
June 7, 2006:
Two Palestinian terrorists attack an Israeli couple while they are hiking in Gush Etzion (Judea\West Bank), stabbing one and hurling rocks at the other.
(Hana Levi Julian, "PA Terrorist Stabbing Attack in Gush Etzion," IsraelNationalNews, June 7, 2006).
Two Palestinian terrorists attack an Israeli couple while they are hiking in Gush Etzion (Judea\West Bank), stabbing one and hurling rocks at the other.
(Hana Levi Julian, "PA Terrorist Stabbing Attack in Gush Etzion," IsraelNationalNews, June 7, 2006).
June 7, 2006:
The IDF arrests 14 wanted Palestinian terrorists - including the murderers of Ita Tzur and her son Ephraim (which took place nearly ten years ago).
(Hillel Fendel, "Terrorist Murderers Caught, 9.5 Years Later," IsraelNationalNews, June 7, 2006).
The IDF arrests 14 wanted Palestinian terrorists - including the murderers of Ita Tzur and her son Ephraim (which took place nearly ten years ago).
(Hillel Fendel, "Terrorist Murderers Caught, 9.5 Years Later," IsraelNationalNews, June 7, 2006).
June 6, 2006:
Palestinian terrorists fire a Qassam rocket at the Nahal Oz military base.
("Kassam Rocket Hits Army Base East of Gaza," IsraelNationalNews, June 6, 2006).
Palestinian terrorists fire a Qassam rocket at the Nahal Oz military base.
("Kassam Rocket Hits Army Base East of Gaza," IsraelNationalNews, June 6, 2006).
June 6, 2006:
IsraelNationalNews reports Iran has become a key player in funneling money to "charitable" organizations in the PA that finance suicide bombers and their families.
On June 1, the Al Hayat Al Jadida paper published a report about the Al Ansar organization. Al Ansar, affiliated with Hamas, apparently distributed $1.8 million worth of gifts to the families of suicide bombers in Gaza.
The head of the organization, Nafez El-Araj, told the paper how his organization distributed money to the families of 2,900 Palestinian terrorists. Each family was allocated a grant for rebuilding houses that were destroyed by the IDF as part of its campaign to deter potential suicide bombers.
Over the past three months, Iran has contributed $1.3 million to 2,020 families of terrorists in Judea and Samaria. It should be noted that Iranian money allows Hamas to develop a powerful social, economic, and educational system in the PA which bolsters public support for the group and its terrorist infrastructure.
(Scott Shiloh, "Iran Pours Millions into Supporting Hamas Infrastructure," IsraelNationalNews, June 6, 2006).
IsraelNationalNews reports Iran has become a key player in funneling money to "charitable" organizations in the PA that finance suicide bombers and their families.
On June 1, the Al Hayat Al Jadida paper published a report about the Al Ansar organization. Al Ansar, affiliated with Hamas, apparently distributed $1.8 million worth of gifts to the families of suicide bombers in Gaza.
The head of the organization, Nafez El-Araj, told the paper how his organization distributed money to the families of 2,900 Palestinian terrorists. Each family was allocated a grant for rebuilding houses that were destroyed by the IDF as part of its campaign to deter potential suicide bombers.
Over the past three months, Iran has contributed $1.3 million to 2,020 families of terrorists in Judea and Samaria. It should be noted that Iranian money allows Hamas to develop a powerful social, economic, and educational system in the PA which bolsters public support for the group and its terrorist infrastructure.
(Scott Shiloh, "Iran Pours Millions into Supporting Hamas Infrastructure," IsraelNationalNews, June 6, 2006).
June 6, 2006:
Shin Bet head Yuval Diskin tells the Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee the amount of weapons and explosives smuggled into the Gaza Strip from the Sinai since disengagement (September 2005) is larger than the total amount smuggled since the Six Day War.
According to Diskin, Palestinians have smuggled 11 tons of TNT, three million bullets, 19,600 rifles, 1,600 pistols, 65 RPG launchers, 430 RPGs and approximately 10 shoulder rocket launchers.
The Shin Bet head also noted Israel has thwarted attempts by the "Global Jihad" to establish an ideological infrastructure in Nablus and around Jerusalem.
In addition, Diskin stated that Egypt has not managed to successfully combat World Jihad cells operating within the Sinai. As such, the peninsula is flooded with weapons smugglers.
(Sheera Claire Frenkel, "Diskin: 11 Tons of TNT Reached Gaza Since Pullout," Jerusalem Post, June 6, 2006; Gideon Alon, "Shin Bet Chief: First Signs of World Jihad Visible in West Bank," Ha'aretz, June 6, 2006).
Shin Bet head Yuval Diskin tells the Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee the amount of weapons and explosives smuggled into the Gaza Strip from the Sinai since disengagement (September 2005) is larger than the total amount smuggled since the Six Day War.
According to Diskin, Palestinians have smuggled 11 tons of TNT, three million bullets, 19,600 rifles, 1,600 pistols, 65 RPG launchers, 430 RPGs and approximately 10 shoulder rocket launchers.
The Shin Bet head also noted Israel has thwarted attempts by the "Global Jihad" to establish an ideological infrastructure in Nablus and around Jerusalem.
In addition, Diskin stated that Egypt has not managed to successfully combat World Jihad cells operating within the Sinai. As such, the peninsula is flooded with weapons smugglers.
(Sheera Claire Frenkel, "Diskin: 11 Tons of TNT Reached Gaza Since Pullout," Jerusalem Post, June 6, 2006; Gideon Alon, "Shin Bet Chief: First Signs of World Jihad Visible in West Bank," Ha'aretz, June 6, 2006).
June 6, 2006:
IDF forces renew artillery fire in the northern Gaza Strip after a volley of Qassam rockets injure an Israeli woman in Sderot.
The rockets strike an empty bed within a house and an area beside a school. Four additional Israelis are wounded in the attack.
(Avi Issacharoff and Amos Harel, "IDF Renews Artillery Fire on Gaza in Wake of Qassam Strikes," Ha'aretz, June 6, 2006).
IDF forces renew artillery fire in the northern Gaza Strip after a volley of Qassam rockets injure an Israeli woman in Sderot.
The rockets strike an empty bed within a house and an area beside a school. Four additional Israelis are wounded in the attack.
(Avi Issacharoff and Amos Harel, "IDF Renews Artillery Fire on Gaza in Wake of Qassam Strikes," Ha'aretz, June 6, 2006).
June 6, 2006:
An IAF missile strike on a car in northern Gaza kills two Palestinian terrorists.
The targets of the IAF attack were identified as Imad Asaliyah and Majdi Hamad, senior members of the Popular Resistance Committies (PRC), a terrorist organization that is involved in Qassam rocket attacks against Israel.
(Avi Issacharoff and Amos Harel, "IAF Missile Strike Kills Two Senior Militants in Northern Gaza Strip," Ha'aretz, June 6, 2006).
Ha'aretz reports that Hamas terrorists in the West Bank have experimented with adding toxic chemicals to their bombs.
Israeli security sources note the experiments involved relatively simple chemicals. In addition, Hamas is not yet able to integrate such agents into its bombs effectively.
(Amos Harel, "Hamas Operatives Working on Adding Toxic Chemicals to Bombs," Ha'aretz, June 6, 2006).
An IAF missile strike on a car in northern Gaza kills two Palestinian terrorists.
The targets of the IAF attack were identified as Imad Asaliyah and Majdi Hamad, senior members of the Popular Resistance Committies (PRC), a terrorist organization that is involved in Qassam rocket attacks against Israel.
(Avi Issacharoff and Amos Harel, "IAF Missile Strike Kills Two Senior Militants in Northern Gaza Strip," Ha'aretz, June 6, 2006).
Ha'aretz reports that Hamas terrorists in the West Bank have experimented with adding toxic chemicals to their bombs.
Israeli security sources note the experiments involved relatively simple chemicals. In addition, Hamas is not yet able to integrate such agents into its bombs effectively.
(Amos Harel, "Hamas Operatives Working on Adding Toxic Chemicals to Bombs," Ha'aretz, June 6, 2006).
June 5, 2006:
Hamas terrorists storm the offices of Palestine Televsion in Khan Younis - beating up two employees, firing at equipment and trashing the building.
("Hamas Gunmen Send Warning to Abbas by Storming TV Station," IsraelNationalNews, June 5, 2006).
Hamas terrorists storm the offices of Palestine Televsion in Khan Younis - beating up two employees, firing at equipment and trashing the building.
("Hamas Gunmen Send Warning to Abbas by Storming TV Station," IsraelNationalNews, June 5, 2006).
June 4, 2006:
DebkaFile reports that Ahmed Jibril�s PFLP-GC has transferred motorized hang-gliders, hot-air balloons and remote-controlled model planes to Hamas.
A team of instructors was smuggled into Gaza in early May, along with German-made remote-controlled model planes adapted to delivering explosives and motorized hang gliders piloted by suiciders carrying explosives. They are currently engaged in assembling the craft, instructing Hamas operatives in their use and teaching them to make their own motorized hang gliders.
("DEBKAfile Exclusive: Palestinian PFLP-GC Hang-Glider Instructors Relocate from Lebanon to Gaza to Beef up Hamas Military Arm," DebkaFile, June 4, 2006).
DebkaFile reports that Ahmed Jibril�s PFLP-GC has transferred motorized hang-gliders, hot-air balloons and remote-controlled model planes to Hamas.
A team of instructors was smuggled into Gaza in early May, along with German-made remote-controlled model planes adapted to delivering explosives and motorized hang gliders piloted by suiciders carrying explosives. They are currently engaged in assembling the craft, instructing Hamas operatives in their use and teaching them to make their own motorized hang gliders.
("DEBKAfile Exclusive: Palestinian PFLP-GC Hang-Glider Instructors Relocate from Lebanon to Gaza to Beef up Hamas Military Arm," DebkaFile, June 4, 2006).
June 4, 2006:
During Sunday's cabinet meeting, Internal Security Minister Avi Dichter urges the government to step-up operations in Gaza and reoccupy territories to prevent ongoing Qassam rocket attacks against the western Negev.
"If need be, we can turn Beit Hanoun into a ghost town. We need to return the balance of deterrence. It can't be that in one week, we can stop Hizbullah fire but not Qassam fire."
(Attila Somfalvi, "Dichter: Reoccupy Parts of Gaza," YnetNews, June 4, 2006).
During Sunday's cabinet meeting, Internal Security Minister Avi Dichter urges the government to step-up operations in Gaza and reoccupy territories to prevent ongoing Qassam rocket attacks against the western Negev.
"If need be, we can turn Beit Hanoun into a ghost town. We need to return the balance of deterrence. It can't be that in one week, we can stop Hizbullah fire but not Qassam fire."
(Attila Somfalvi, "Dichter: Reoccupy Parts of Gaza," YnetNews, June 4, 2006).
June 4, 2006:
A pregnant Palestinian woman is shot dead during an exchange of fire between Hamas and Fatah terrorists in the Gaza Strip. Four other Palestinians are killed.
(Ali Waked, "At Least 3 Killed in Gaza Fighting," YnetNews, June 4, 2006; Avi Issacharoff, "Five Palestinians Killed in Hamas-Fatah Armed Clashes," Ha'aretz, June 4, 2006).
A pregnant Palestinian woman is shot dead during an exchange of fire between Hamas and Fatah terrorists in the Gaza Strip. Four other Palestinians are killed.
(Ali Waked, "At Least 3 Killed in Gaza Fighting," YnetNews, June 4, 2006; Avi Issacharoff, "Five Palestinians Killed in Hamas-Fatah Armed Clashes," Ha'aretz, June 4, 2006).
June 2, 2006:
2,500 members of a new Fatah security force are deployed in Jenin. The security force was created in response to the 3,000-member force established by Hamas in Gaza last month.
About 1,300 members of the new unit gather at a high school in Jenin wearing black T-shirts emblazoned with "Special Protection Unit" on the back, and a photo of Yasser Arafat on the front.
(Avi Issacharoff, "Abbas Won't Visit Gaza if Hamas Force is Deployed," Ha'aretz, June 2, 2006).
2,500 members of a new Fatah security force are deployed in Jenin. The security force was created in response to the 3,000-member force established by Hamas in Gaza last month.
About 1,300 members of the new unit gather at a high school in Jenin wearing black T-shirts emblazoned with "Special Protection Unit" on the back, and a photo of Yasser Arafat on the front.
(Avi Issacharoff, "Abbas Won't Visit Gaza if Hamas Force is Deployed," Ha'aretz, June 2, 2006).
June 2, 2006:
The U.S. military determines that Palestinian terrorists have become senior operatives in the Sunni insurgency in Iraq.
Officials note than an increasing number of Palestinians have joined Al Qaida-aligned groups in Iraq. They said most of the Palestinians, estimated at more than 100, entered Baghdad from Syria and Jordan over the last 18 months and helped plan suicide car bombings.
"They came into Iraq posing as students or those visiting family...We believe some of them were sent by Palestinian groups."
On May 30, Iraqi and U.S. troops captured three Palestinians identified as leaders of insurgency cells in Baghdad. The Palestinians were said to have recruited students from Baghdad Technical University and ordered them to plant bombs near Iraqi police and army positions.
("Palestinians Rise in Sunni Insurgency," Middle East Newsline, June 2, 2006).
The U.S. military determines that Palestinian terrorists have become senior operatives in the Sunni insurgency in Iraq.
Officials note than an increasing number of Palestinians have joined Al Qaida-aligned groups in Iraq. They said most of the Palestinians, estimated at more than 100, entered Baghdad from Syria and Jordan over the last 18 months and helped plan suicide car bombings.
"They came into Iraq posing as students or those visiting family...We believe some of them were sent by Palestinian groups."
On May 30, Iraqi and U.S. troops captured three Palestinians identified as leaders of insurgency cells in Baghdad. The Palestinians were said to have recruited students from Baghdad Technical University and ordered them to plant bombs near Iraqi police and army positions.
("Palestinians Rise in Sunni Insurgency," Middle East Newsline, June 2, 2006).
June 2, 2006:
Palestinian terrorists fire two Qassam rockets at the Israeli city of Sderot, damaging two parked cars.
IDF forces respond with artillery fire at suspected launching sites in the northern Gaza Strip.
("Two Qassam Rockets Land in Sderot, Damaging Two Cars," Ha'aretz, June 2, 2006).
Palestinian terrorists fire two Qassam rockets at the Israeli city of Sderot, damaging two parked cars.
IDF forces respond with artillery fire at suspected launching sites in the northern Gaza Strip.
("Two Qassam Rockets Land in Sderot, Damaging Two Cars," Ha'aretz, June 2, 2006).
June 1, 2006:
The Qassam rockets that impacted in Sderot on May 31st were assembled by Hamas.
Hamas-made rockets are colored green and red - features that distinguish them from projectiles manufactured by Islamic Jihad and other terror groups.
(Hanan Greenberg, "Hamas Behind Qassam Attack on Sderot," YnetNews, June 1, 2006).
The Qassam rockets that impacted in Sderot on May 31st were assembled by Hamas.
Hamas-made rockets are colored green and red - features that distinguish them from projectiles manufactured by Islamic Jihad and other terror groups.
(Hanan Greenberg, "Hamas Behind Qassam Attack on Sderot," YnetNews, June 1, 2006).
June 1, 2006:
A senior Fatah operative is killed and five officers wounded during clashes with Hamas gunmen in Gaza.
(Ali Waked, "1 Dead, 5 Hurt in Fatah-Hamas Clashes," YnetNews, June 2, 2006).
A senior Fatah operative is killed and five officers wounded during clashes with Hamas gunmen in Gaza.
(Ali Waked, "1 Dead, 5 Hurt in Fatah-Hamas Clashes," YnetNews, June 2, 2006).
June 1, 2006:
Hundreds of members of the Palestinian Authority's armed forces seize the PA's parliament building in Gaza as protest for not receiving three months back pay.
("PA Security Forces Seize Parliament Building in Gaza," IsraelNationalNews, June 1, 2006).
Hundreds of members of the Palestinian Authority's armed forces seize the PA's parliament building in Gaza as protest for not receiving three months back pay.
("PA Security Forces Seize Parliament Building in Gaza," IsraelNationalNews, June 1, 2006).
June 1, 2006:
Islamic Jihad claims responsibility for a bombing attack that lightly wounds two IDF soldiers in Jenin.
("Islamic Jihad Takes Responsibility for Attack in Jenin," IsraelNationalNews, June 1, 2006).
Islamic Jihad claims responsibility for a bombing attack that lightly wounds two IDF soldiers in Jenin.
("Islamic Jihad Takes Responsibility for Attack in Jenin," IsraelNationalNews, June 1, 2006).
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