Israel - May 2023

May witnessed a surge in violence between Israeli and Palestinian groups, drawing international attention and concerns. The conflict escalated following the death of a prominent Palestinian activist in Israeli custody on 2 May, leading to retaliatory attacks by the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PJI) and subsequent airstrikes by Israel. A ceasefire was eventually achieved after five days of intense clashes resulting in casualties on both sides. This was the largest escalation of the conflict since a three-day period in August 2022. Simultaneously, Jerusalem and the occupied West Bank experienced a spike in violent incidents by Israeli authorities, including raids and checkpoints. The use of excessive force, including use of live ammunition, resulted in thousands of Palestinian injuries and several civilian casualties. The United Nations called for an end to the violence, expressing alarm over the high casualty rate, which includes over 156 Palestinians killed by Israeli forces so far in 2023, including 26 children.

Sources: Associated Press, Reuters, Al Jazeera (1), Al Jazeera (2), Al Monitor, Relief Web, United Nations