AGP Executive Report

West Bank crackdown: Israeli forces raided multiple West Bank towns and camps, detained dozens, and blocked an ambulance carrying a pregnant woman to hospital, with reports of a miscarriage as raids intensified. Settler arson and attacks: Palestinians say settlers torched two mosques in Qusra and Kusra, spraying Hebrew graffiti including “revenge,” amid a deadly surge after clashes near Nablus. UNRWA under pressure: Israeli troops raided the UNRWA training center in Qalandia, firing tear gas and detaining teaching and administrative staff, with Palestinians warning Israel is undermining East Jerusalem institutions. Gaza displacement and UK access: Britain’s Home Office is blocking evacuation of dozens of women and children from Gaza despite Foreign Office plans, using legal challenges and onward-travel assurances to stop arrivals. International response: The UAE condemned settler attacks and urged accountability; meanwhile, Abbas called for urgent international action to stop “systemic” settler violence and ongoing Israeli aggression. Gaza governance plan: Israel’s cabinet approved a “Peace Council” in Gaza starting in Rafah, backed by an international stabilization force and strict security screening. Economy pressure: Israeli banks are expected to cut ties with Palestinian Authority banks, raising fears of payment disruptions and a deeper economic crisis. UK politics and Palestine: UK Labour’s new Solicitor General appointment sparked backlash over past ties to Hamas associates, as critics accuse the government of giving legal influence to a pro-Palestine figure. Humanitarian support abroad: British celebrities launched an online auction to fund UK scholarships for Palestinian students in Gaza.

West Bank Crackdown & Settler Arson: Israel launched a large-scale arrest campaign across the occupied West Bank, detaining at least 80 Palestinians after deadly clashes near Nablus, while settlers set fire to two mosques in Qusra and Kour and sprayed “revenge” graffiti, as roads and access to hospitals were reportedly restricted. Gaza Airstrike Deaths: In Gaza, an Israeli strike killed two Hamas security officials in Deir al-Balah, and separate reporting highlights the continued toll on families amid alleged ceasefire violations. Ireland Settlement-Ban Move: The Palestinian Foreign Ministry welcomed Ireland’s law banning imports from illegal Israeli settlements, urging other countries to follow with similar trade and investment restrictions. Gaza “Peace Plan” Step: Israel approved the entry of an International Stabilization Force to operate in parts of Gaza outside Israeli military control, under a US-linked framework, with a “Board of Peace” also planned for administration and reconstruction. Regional Warning: The Arab League warned the US to rein in Israeli policies, saying the region is nearing a “moment of explosion” as Gaza remains in tents amid hunger and disease.

Settler Arson in the West Bank: Israeli settlers set fire to two mosques—one under construction in Qusra south of Nablus—and torched parts of a Palestinian home in Beit Furik, with racist graffiti sprayed calling for “revenge.” West Bank Raids and Siege: Israel sealed entrances to Nablus governorate, trapping about 400,000 people and forcing at least two women to give birth in ambulances as emergency access was blocked. Settlement Expansion: Israel’s Smotrich approved a threefold expansion of the Eli settlement, advancing 763 new housing units. Gaza Security Cabinet Plan: Israel’s Security Cabinet is set to discuss the “Board of Peace” pilot for restoring services and temporary shelters in areas outside Hamas control, starting in Rafah with screening requirements. PA Detention Rights: UN rights officials demanded the PA end arbitrary detention, torture and ill-treatment, including cases held despite court orders. International Justice: The ICC voted to remove chief prosecutor Karim Khan after sexual misconduct allegations.

West Bank Crackdown: After a string of attacks, the IDF banned Palestinian workers from entering Israeli settlement areas in Judea and Samaria, with limited exceptions for industrial and construction sites. Raids and Settler Violence: Israeli forces detained 70+ Palestinians in overnight West Bank raids following deadly clashes near Tell, while settlers attacked families near Aqraba, injuring several, and more raids and arrests were reported across northern areas. Gaza Strikes: In Gaza, Israeli airstrikes killed at least five Palestinians, including the head of Hamas-led northern police, as attacks continued despite a ceasefire framework. Al-Aqsa Alarm: Foreign ministries and officials across the region condemned repeated Al-Aqsa Mosque storming, warning the situation is “extremely dangerous.” UNESCO Heritage: UNESCO added Sebastia in the West Bank and Lebanese castles to the World Heritage List, despite Israeli objections. Diplomacy and Pressure: Kuwait welcomed EU bans on settlement products, and Qatar urged more countries to follow suit.

West Bank Crackdown: Israeli forces carried out large-scale raids across the occupied West Bank, detaining dozens in Tell near Nablus and expanding operations into Jenin-area towns and villages, with reports of dozens arrested and homes searched after a settler attack killed four Palestinians and two Israelis. Settler Violence & Condemnations: Jordan’s foreign ministry condemned “settler terrorism,” warning it is pushing the West Bank toward an “explosion,” while the EU urged restraint after a wave of attacks and deaths. UN Rights Chief: UN human rights chief Volker Türk won a second term at the UN General Assembly despite US, Russia and Israel opposition, keeping him in the role for four more years. UNESCO Hope for Heritage: Palestinians welcomed UNESCO’s World Heritage designation for Sebastia, hoping it will curb Israeli land seizures, while Israel called it political. Cross-Community Youth Sport: Peace Players International brought Palestinian and Israeli girls to Belfast for mixed basketball and sport exchanges, using play to bridge divides.

West Bank Violence & Settler Attacks: Israel launched a major operation in the occupied West Bank after clashes near Tell and the Havat Gilad area left four Palestinians and two Israeli soldiers dead, with reports of settler rampages, home fires, and raids that included a hospital storming in Nablus. Official Crackdown: Netanyahu ordered troop reinforcement, tighter movement controls, and steps including razing homes and accelerating legal measures tied to settlement expansion. International Alarm: The EU urged de-escalation after the killings, while Doctors Without Borders said it was “deeply alarmed” by attacks on healthcare and warned this fits a wider pattern of raids and pressure on civilians. Regional Warning: Jordan’s and other officials’ concerns echoed as Ayman Safadi warned Israel’s actions could push the West Bank toward “explosion.” Global Politics Spillover: Separately, the ICC voted to remove prosecutor Karim Khan over sexual misconduct allegations, and Trump reiterated a U.S.-Saudi nuclear deal condition tied to Abraham Accords—both adding pressure to an already volatile regional landscape. Campus Rights: In the U.S., UC SJP faces potential suspension over a protest, underscoring how Palestine activism continues to collide with institutional rules.

West Bank Violence: Four Palestinians were killed and four others wounded in an attack in the town of Tell, south of Nablus, as Israeli forces and settlers opened fire after settlers stormed homes, with Israel saying the incident began after an attack on Israeli hikers. Al-Aqsa Tensions: Eight Muslim countries condemned Israel’s latest incursions at Al-Aqsa, including far-right minister participation and settler actions, warning of legal violations and escalation at the holy site. Gaza Ceasefire Violations: A Palestinian woman died from wounds after an earlier strike, while another Israeli strike hit a home in Maghazi following evacuation warnings, destroying the house and injuring civilians. Banking Pressure: Israeli banks Hapoalim and Discount told Palestinian lenders they plan to end key correspondent banking links, raising fears of payment disruptions across the West Bank. Diplomacy & Development: Indonesia reiterated support for Palestinian development through education, health, institutions and legal reforms, including scholarships and agricultural cooperation. Travel & Politics: Malaysia said it will not lift its ban on Israeli citizens’ entry, saying it targets Israel’s oppression and occupation, not Jews.

Al-Aqsa Under Pressure: Far-right Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir led hundreds into the Al-Aqsa compound, breaching the “status quo,” as Palestinian groups and the OIC condemned the storming and warned of bigger incursions. West Bank Banking Crisis Fears: Ramallah-based Palestinian officials say Zionist banks plan to cut correspondent services within weeks, threatening a “cliff” for salaries, imports, and daily commerce in the occupied West Bank. Gaza Food Security—Improved but Fragile: A leading food monitor says hunger in Gaza has eased since last year’s famine, but most families still lack enough to eat and any aid disruption could quickly reverse gains. US-Israel Support Frays: A widening legal and political fight is emerging over unconditional U.S. military backing for Israel, with growing Democratic pressure to restrict assistance. Saudi Nuclear Deal Rewritten: Trump says the U.S.-Saudi civilian nuclear pact is “totally subject” to Saudi normalization with Israel via the Abraham Accords, throwing the agreement into fresh uncertainty. Legal Deportation Battle: A U.S. appeals court rejected Trump’s bid to re-detain a Georgetown scholar tied to pro-Palestinian activism.

Al-Aqsa Under Pressure: Around 1,300 Israeli settlers stormed the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in occupied East Jerusalem for Tisha B’Av, with Palestinian worshippers largely blocked and some assaulted as police tightened controls. West Bank Violence: An Israeli man was seriously wounded in a stabbing near Elon Moreh after attackers set a fire; both assailants were killed by Israeli forces. Gaza Food Security: A UN-backed IPC update says food security and child nutrition have improved since last year’s famine declaration, but conditions remain at crisis levels and gains could quickly reverse if aid access falters. Palestinian Politics: The Palestinian Central Elections Commission announced the timetable for Nov. 28 legislative elections, including voter registration starting Aug. 15 and candidate nominations opening Sept. 26. International Support: Singapore reaffirmed support for the Palestinian Authority with a S$10 million technical assistance package, including training and scholarships, during CEAPAD talks in Manila. US Military Funding: The US House passed the NDAA for fiscal 2027, with critics warning it could deepen US-Israel military integration amid Gaza humanitarian concerns.

US-Saudi Nuclear Deal Alarm: Israel and nuclear nonproliferation experts are warning that a new US-Saudi civilian nuclear pact could open the door to Saudi uranium enrichment and weapons-grade capability, reshaping Middle East diplomacy and normalization incentives. NYC Mayor Mamdani Fallout: New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani is facing backlash after admitting he can’t arrest Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu, while continuing to brand him a “war criminal” and pushing the US to act on an ICC warrant—sparking fresh criticism from Jewish groups and Israeli officials. Gaza Health & Sanitation Push: The UAE-backed “Operation Chivalrous Knight 3” launched pest control and public health work in Gaza displacement areas, aiming to cut disease risk amid worsening waste and debris conditions. West Bank Settler Violence: Reports say settlers forcibly evicted a Palestinian family from a home in Jalud after a months-long siege, seizing the property. Hamas Leadership Update: Hamas named Khalil al-Hayya as its new political bureau chief, saying priorities include ending the war, preventing displacement, and advancing reconstruction. Diplomacy on Palestine: Pakistan’s FM Ishaq Dar and Egypt’s FM Badr Abdelatty discussed Palestine, reiterating rejection of violence against civilians and illegal settlement activity.

Gaza Ceasefire Violations: Gaza saw fresh strikes despite the truce, with reports of 13 Palestinians killed in attacks across the Strip, including a missile strike on the al-Masri family in central Gaza City and a drone attack near Khan Younis. Hamas Leadership: Hezbollah’s Sheikh Naim Qassem congratulated Khalil al-Hayya on his election as Hamas political bureau chief, framing it as continuity of the resistance. ICC Arrest Push: New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani walked back his earlier pledge, saying the city lacks legal authority to arrest Netanyahu if he visits, but urging the US federal government to enforce the ICC warrant. France Settlement Trade Lawsuit: Rights groups filed a case in France’s top administrative court over the government’s failure to stop French corporate and financial support tied to Israel’s occupation. Netherlands Settlement Sanctions: The Netherlands announced trade sanctions on goods from Israeli settlements (and the Golan) starting Sept. 22, aiming to pressure Israel over settlement policy. Regional War Risk: US-Iran exchanges of fire continued, with energy prices rising and diplomacy efforts described as uncertain.

Gaza Child Death Toll: Save the Children says at least 19 Palestinian children have been killed by Israeli forces in July so far, including four children in a Gaza City strike that also killed their parents, as attacks continue despite a ceasefire. Hamas Leadership: Hamas announced Khalil al-Hayya as its new political chief, replacing the late Yahya Sinwar, with reports he will keep a hard line and maintain key regional ties. Gaza Division by Design: Satellite imagery and reporting say Israel is building a miles-long earthen barrier inside Gaza, deepening fears the “yellow line” is becoming a permanent border. West Bank Land Orders: Israel issued seven new orders covering about 89,514 dunams in Ramallah, Jerusalem and Nablus for “security roads,” totaling roughly 17.6 km. International Pressure on Aid: U.S. Congressman Paul Tonko backed the Massie amendment to halt certain U.S. military aid to Israel, arguing it enables further bombing beyond Gaza. Regional Flashpoints: Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun urged Trump not to cut support for the Lebanese Armed Forces, warning the south could slide back into chaos. Humanitarian/Health Crisis: Gaza’s sewage and coastal pollution are worsening, with families reporting infections and wounds after swimming as sewage infrastructure remains damaged.

Hamas Leadership: Hamas has elected Khalil Al-Hayya as its new political bureau chief, succeeding Yahya Sinwar, after an internal run-off against Khaled Meshaal; Al-Hayya is described as a key negotiator and has faced alleged Israeli assassination attempts. West Bank Land & Settlements: Israel issued a military order seizing 5,283 dunams near Jabaa for a settlement bypass road, with the stated aim of expanding settlement road links toward annexation plans. Humanitarian Access: Israel’s High Court urged major aid groups to withdraw petitions challenging visa and registration rules tied to “security” and boycott concerns, raising questions about whether nonregistration blocks aid work in practice. Prison Policy: The Palestinian Prisoners’ Society says Israeli forces are increasingly using rubber-coated bullets in raids, with prisoners reporting severe injuries and medical neglect. West Bank Expansion Study: A new ARIJ study says settlement plans in the first half of 2026 surged past all of 2025, targeting over 22,650 dunums and nearly 19,790 new housing units. Gaza Infrastructure: AP reports Israel is building a miles-long earthen barrier inside Gaza, deepening fears it will become a permanent border.

Hamas Leadership: Khalil al-Hayya has been elected Hamas’s overall political leader, replacing Yahya Sinwar after his 2024 killing, with analysts saying the choice could harden the group’s stance on disarmament as Gaza’s ceasefire remains fragile. West Bank Violence: Palestinian health officials say Israeli forces shot dead two men during a settler attack in Deir Jarir, as the Palestine Red Crescent reported evacuations and injuries. Media Under Pressure: The Palestinian Journalists Syndicate reports eight Palestinian journalists killed and hundreds of violations against media workers in the first half of 2026, including detentions and restrictions around Al-Aqsa. UNRWA Funding Crisis: UNRWA warns of a 2026 cash shortfall of over $100 million, saying the gap threatens basic services for millions of refugees. Red Sea Escalation: Yemen’s Houthis announce a blockade/embargo on Saudi shipping through Bab al-Mandeb, raising fears of wider disruption to global energy routes.

West Bank Violence: Two Palestinians were killed in Deir Jarir near Ramallah as residents tried to repel a settler raid, with Israeli forces firing live ammunition; the incident adds to a wider surge in settler attacks and raids. Holy Sites Access: Israeli authorities banned Palestinian journalist Ahmad al-Safadi from entering al-Aqsa after abducting him, while exclusion orders continue to restrict worshippers amid rising settler incursions. Aid Under Fire: Reports say Hamas attacked WFP aid sites in Jabalia, threatening aid workers and detaining people, while demanding compensation for ammunition used. Cash Crunch in the Occupied West Bank: A shortage of bank space for shekels is disrupting deposits and payments, with Palestinian officials blaming outdated limits on cash returns by the Bank of Israel. Diplomacy & Pressure: Belgium’s settlement-products import ban drew Palestinian praise and calls for wider EU and global action. Regional Politics: Malaysia’s foreign minister is set to lead ASEAN talks in Manila with West Asia, Gaza and West Bank killings on the agenda. International Spotlight: Hamas named Khalil al-Hayya as its new leader after an internal run-off. Culture & Solidarity: Palestinians celebrated Spain’s World Cup win with Palestinian flags, linking football joy to pro-Palestine stances.

Gaza Ceasefire Violations: Israel carried out 3,795 “ceasefire” violations since October, with Gaza officials saying thousands were killed and aid deliveries remain far below what’s expected. West Bank Escalation: Israeli forces issued eviction and demolition notices for dozens of homes in Kafr Aqab near East Jerusalem, while raids in Ramallah-area villages left residents suffocating from tear gas. Settler Violence: AFP reports settlers torched a mosque in Al-Tuwani and damaged homes and a dairy factory; elsewhere, elderly Palestinians were injured in Hebron-area attacks. Colonization Push: Thousands of Israeli marchers, including Likud ministers, crossed multiple checkpoints toward Gaza to demand the return of settlements. Holy Land Threats: Palestinian Christian leaders warn settlement expansion and land confiscation are endangering the historic Christian presence. International Court Clash: Netanyahu’s office denounced the ICC and NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s threat to pursue an arrest during a September visit. UK Politics: Andy Burnham’s move into Downing Street comes with major economic and foreign-policy pressures, including the Middle East.