Hezbollah SG Sayyed Nasrallah’s Son, Jawad, Tells Al-Ahed Never before Heard Stories about Martyr Hadi

Hezbollah SG Sayyed Nasrallah’s Son, Jawad, Tells Al-Ahed Never before Heard Stories about Martyr Hadi

By Fatima Salami

Beirut – There are moments when we find ourselves unable to write.  It just so happens that when we wish to describe a certain reality, we find it difficult to put into words. So, we write, and then we delete hoping that we find the suitable phrase for the right place. Of course, these moments do not occur when we are writing political or economic commentary.

These moments occur when we are in the presence of the martyrs! We ask ourselves where do we start when all the roads lead to beauty planted with chivalry and pride. These roads tell many stories that we have long sought with passion and longing. We have long waited for any details that would reveal to us the identity of these martyrs. Decades might pass and those details would continue to live inside of us, teaching us many lessons.

Who among us does not care to know more about the personality of martyr Sayyed Hadi Hassan Nasrallah?

22 years have passed since his martyrdom during the Jabal al-Rafi confrontations. Yet his memory awakens our hope in leaders who have sacrificed their loved ones on this path and put forth the interest of this path before fatherhood. They were steadfast and praised God for this offering.

As the 22^nd anniversary of Sayyed Hadi’s martyrdom approaches, his brother Sayyed Jawad talks to al-Ahed News Website for the first time since 2007. He speaks in length about a martyr who possessed leadership characteristics. He was loved, decisive and charismatic.

Sayyed Jawad spoke about a young man who had not yet passed through adolescence but behaved well beyond his age. In the midst of a conversation in which Jawad evoked memories of more than two decades, the spirit of the martyr was present. The stories about Hadi the child, the teenager and the young man overlapped. He had the mind of a decisive leader. He was a compassionate brother who was kind and caring. He was the calm obedient son who was attached to his mother until the last breath. He was also attached to his relatives, neighbors and friends. Since he was a child, he was good in building relationships with his surroundings. He was the trustworthy Mujahid who kept the secrets of the Jihadi work and was loyal to it. He was a son who was identical to his father and took a lot of his traits.

Hadi was the heart of the household

Delving into Martyr Hadi’s character and capturing its details is no easy task. Jawad recalls martyr Hadi’s intelligence from a young age. He used to move everyone with his eyes as he was quiet and calm. He was quiet in nature during playtime as well. But he used to make up plans, which were carried out by his friends. When he suggested a particular game idea, everyone moved to implement it without questions. All this was because of the leadership characteristics the martyr possessed. He was labeled a “motor brain” despite his young age.

According to Jawad, Hadi can be called the “heart of the house”. He gave the house vitality and movement. He was very attached to his mother and she to him. He had an unspeakable eagerness in his heart for his mother and vice versa. He was highly energetic. He always woke up early to help his mother with house chores.

What distinguishes Hadi was also his obedience to his parents. For example, he once thought of buying a car. Sayyed [Hassan Nasrallah] told him at the time, “I’d rather you not buy a car, even if it was from your own money. We have to feel with the people and be equal to our neighbors. We should not be different from them when it comes to our financial matters.”

It did not take Sayyed a long time to convince Hadi, who quickly obeyed his father’s wishes. He replaced the idea of a car with a motorcycle, which he used for transportation.

Hadi was very attached to his siblings, especially the youngest Muhammad Ali. Jawad recalls the beautiful noise Hadi used to make in the house. In spite of his calmness, he formed the dynamics of the household through his prevalent laughter, smile and energy. In his absence, there was stillness and calm. Jawad says that there was no energy in the house when he would go away to train especially that their father was absent most of the time because of his leadership role that preoccupied him. This left their mother with the task of raising them.

Hadi’s charisma and appeal

Hadi derived some of his charisma and appeal from His Eminence Sayyed [Nasrallah]. Jawad tells us how the neighbors distinguished Hadi from his peers. For example, when about 20 children were playing football in the neighborhood playground, the neighbors only called Hadi to drink water and rest. They asked him if he needed anything. They only called Hadi, given his beloved personality that he imposed on everyone and the eagerness that others had towards him.

He was affectionate to the family and sought to bring happiness to them.

Following his last Jihadi training session, a year before Hadi’s martyrdom, he came home bearing gifts for all the members of the family each according to what he/she liked. He did so since he was the eldest child. His mother also received a present. Martyr Hadi always made sure to make his family happy. His primary concern was to put a smile of the faces of his younger siblings.

The common hobbies

Jawad talks about the strong relationship with his brother. “One of the hobbies we shared was involved a trip to Baalbek where we competed in climbing the mountain. Since we were so attached to each other, if one of us falls behind in a place the other automatically grabs his hand and pulls him. This shows how much love we had for each other even when we were racing. Brotherhood always prevails. My relationship with Hadi was especially strong and very solid. We ate together; we played together; we went to school together; we did everything together since we were almost the same age. He was a year and a half older than me.”

Jawad recalls how pretending to be resistance fighters was their favorite game. Football was second on the list of hobbies. Jawad remembers in detail of how he played football and Hadi’s passion for this game. Hadi used to cheer for Ansar and Jawad for Nejmeh.

When competition ensued, Hadi – known for his fondness of drawing – would sketch a broken star and an arrow piercing it. The arrow was in reference to Ansar.

The conversations on the motorcycle

“On our last trip I went with him on the motorcycle to visit Grandma”, Jawad says.

“Hadi began to talk to me about the world and that true happiness is gaining Allah Almighty’s pleasure. Nothing calls for the disobedience of the Creator. He told me that the peak of his happiness is when he was at the frontlines and when he was with God. He had unnatural kindness and purity. This was the talk of a 17-year-old shortly before his martyrdom. This intellectual and spiritual connection with Allah Almighty is very precious. We rarely find this among young people his age.”

Proficiency in establishing relationships

According to Jawad, Hadi was keen on upholding family ties. He had a strong relationship with his relatives such as his paternal grandmother and his late aunt Zakiya, to whom Hadi was deeply attached. He was also keen on establishing relationships and friendships with the neighbors.

The martyr possessed a degree of kindness that is uncommon in any teenager his age. For example, he was eager to buy sweets and candy for the younger siblings of his friends. He was just 14 years old. The youngest among his friends had an unusual attachment to Hadi and his personality not because he was the son of Hezbollah’s secretary-general, but because he had a special character.

Jawad cites one of Hadi’s friends concerning an incident involving the martyr and the “young men” [resistance fighters] in 1996. Back then, they were positioned along a river when they came under “Israeli” bombardment. At the time, their sole concern was to grab Hadi and jump into the river to protect him from danger. Because of his beloved personality, people would go out of their way to protect him and he broke barriers with others the very first time he meets them.

The humble person who loved life

Humility was a feature in Hadi’s personality. His friends have always talked about it. Jawad points out that the martyr used to go to his friends’ homes without informing their parents whose son he was. Moreover, when he was martyred, many of the families that Hadi had visited and sat with for hours were surprised because he did not reveal that he was the son of Hezbollah’s secretary general.

Hadi was humble. On the other hand, he loved life. Jawad tells us how he always took care about his appearance and clothes, contrary to what is said about martyrs. He liked taking walks with his friends. Hadi had a charming childish smile, Jawad says.

He was mindful. He thought as a leader and was extremely smart. For example, he once underwent a computer course and became a teaching assistant. Hadi also had a strong method of persuasion that made others do what he liked willingly.

Because he was so humble, he never found it difficult to carry out house repairs with the help of Jawad. He was preparing to bid bachelorhood farewell. However, his martyrdom came two months before the planned occasion.

Being cautious

Jawad recounts the degree of certainty and sensation that the martyr had in his heart. In this context, he tells us about another incident. Hadi got accustomed to going to Hanaway in Tyre once a week to visit his fiancé’s home. On one occasion, Jawad went into Hadi’s room and found him ironing his shirt and preparing his clothes to go to the southern Lebanese city. He begins joking with his brother.

Suddenly Hadi tells Jawad, “Frankly, I feel very tired. I won’t go.” And then he went to bed. That night, the enemy raided the house of his in-laws in an effort to capture him after they documented his weekly appointments. However, they did not find him.

The last meeting

Jawad tells us about the last meeting with his brother Hadi. It was an unusual meeting. This was the only time the martyr warmly bid him farewell and kissed him saying, “I am going to work.” “I followed him down the stairs”, Jawad says, “to ask him when he will return.”

“It is supposed to be four to five days. But God willing I will be martyred and will not return,” Hadi replied.

During these moments, Hadi’s face was unusually bright. He was not interested in worldly matters. He left everything and went on a journey of jihad.

The secretive and trustworthy Hadi at work

Jawad notes that Hadi embraced jihad willingly. He even sought it out, in the hope of being enlisted quickly. In 1995, he underwent an al-Moqatel [military training] course. The following year, he underwent a special forces training course. He was martyred in 1997.

Here, Jawad recounts an incident that highlights the level of secrecy Hadi practiced during his jihadi work. After Hadi’s martyrdom, Jawad accidentally found X-rays and [medical] tests. Jawad asked Hadi’s friends why his brother had gone to the hospital.

One of them told me that “once, we were working on extending internal lines to one of the military points in the Iqlim.”

“Hadi carried a roll of wire and crossed the mountain to deliver it. Because it was so heavy, Hadi got sick and had to visit the hospital on every time he was on leave.”

Hadi before martyrdom

“I was in Iran in 2013,” says Jawad. “I met a prominent religious cleric. He told me, ‘I was on the battlefront, and I didn’t know Hadi. So I got to know him and we started talking. I warned him to be careful and pay attention as he was the son of the secretary-general of Hezbollah. Hadi replied by saying, ‘do not worry. God willing, I will make my father proud’.”

Jawad conveys this particular exchange to underscore Hadi’s insightful vision and strong ability to look to the future.

Jawad also quotes one of Hadi’s comrades who spoke of his calmness minutes before he was martyred. One of his comrades asked him, “what is wrong, Hadi?”

“I look forward to things beyond this world,” he replied.

News of the martyrdom

Jawad goes back 22 years, to the date of his brother’s martyrdom. At the time, he was heading home, and an old lady asked for his name.

The lady spoke with a broken heart and in a loud voice

“What is your name?” she asked

“Jawad,” he replied.

She started beating one hand against the other said, “There is no power nor strength except through Allah.”

“Then I understood that something happened to Hadi,” Jawad says. “I continued my way home. I knocked on the door. My sister Zainab opened the door with tears in her eyes. Then I was sure something had happened. I entered, and I was surprised to see Hajj Imad Mughniyeh, Sayyed Mustafa Badreddine [Zulfiqar] and the late Sheikh Ali Khatun. My father was in his office alone. But he was calm and quiet. I kissed him and sat on the floor beside him. A minute had passed before Hajj Imad Mughniyeh called us to watch the video filmed by the ‘Israelis’ in Marjayoun. I immediately recognized Hadi and the body of martyr Ali Kawtharani. Hajj Radwan started boosting our morale.”

Jawad points out that Hajj Imad was kind and very patriarchal. He had a very strong relationship with Sayyed Nasrallah. The family was glad to see him because of the level of harmony, love and eagerness that existed between the two men.

“After his martyrdom, I saw Hadi in a dream,” Jawad adds. “He came to us at home. I was sitting next to my younger brother, Mohammad Ali. I told Hadi, ‘explain to me what happened to you with the Zionists.’ He pointed with his hand and said that there was a meter separating the martyr from the enemy. I asked him what he felt. He said, ‘nothing at all.’”

My father the mountain

In the end, Jawad talks about strength, power and determination that His Eminence possessed.

“I was a 16-year old athlete. I was unable to stand throughout the condolences service following Hadi’s martyrdom. However, my father stood tirelessly and calmly. He was eager to insure the comfort of those around him.”

There is no doubt that the above are just a few of the many characteristics of Hadi’s beautiful soul, which has left its mark that will not be erased by all these years.

Related

• Sayyed Nasrallah’s Other Side (Part 2): This Is How He Followed Social Networking Sites & Prepared His Speeches
• Sayyed Nasrallah’s Other Side: A Caring Father Passionate about Reading

River to Sea Uprooted Palestinian   

The views expressed in this article are the sole responsibility of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of the Blog!

Sayyed Nasrallah’s Other Side (Part 2): This Is How He Followed Social Networking Sites & Prepared His Speeches

Sayyed Nasrallah’s Other Side (Part 2): This Is How He Followed Social Networking Sites & Prepared His Speeches

Fatima Salami

Beirut – When we read about the personality of Hezbollah Secretary General Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, we find ourselves immersed in the finer details. We may read the text a second time and not get bored.

One reader commented on the first segment of this article series noting that the more we read about this extraordinary figure, the more attached we become.

Meanwhile, a politician who stands in stark contrast to Sayyed’s political views expressed in private correspondence his admiration for Sayyed’s charisma and personality, describing him an extraordinary leader. This is the opinion of an opponent.

There is no doubt that many like him think the same way, even if they do not declare it. For you cannot dive into Sayyed’s distinctive personality and not find yourself captivated by those exemplary qualities.

Behind the character of a strong and capable leader, a leader who knew how to twist the arm of the Zionist enemy, a leader who terrified the enemy into keeping up with each and every single appearance he makes, Sayyed Nasrallah hides a great deal of humanity, kindness, compassion and love for his people.

In the last part of the interview with the Al-Ahed news website, Sayyed Jawad, the son of Hezbollah’s secretary general, talks about the love His Eminence has for the people. He has infinite compassion for his supporters in his heart. He asks about their situation and matters that concern them, follows up on their issues and grieves over their pain.

Jawad also points out that Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah who is today Hezbollah’s secretary general is the same person he was before he took up this post. He has great adoration for the Grand Ayatollah Imam Sayyid Ali Khamenei and has a strong relationship with the Mujahideen.

He makes sure to read most of the reports and articles, and he follows with distinction what is published on social media. He underscores the need for civilized communication, calling on everyone to disagree with respect.

His Eminence regards money and legitimate rights as a red line that should never be abused. Jawad talks about an incident that he experienced personally in this regard.

As for Sayyed’s speeches, he has them in his head as they are on paper. Let us assume that he went somewhere to deliver a speech and forgot the papers, nothing changes at all.

Sayyed the human being

Jawad elaborates on Sayyed the man, who has not been changed by the world and has not been taken by the glamor of the podiums. He talks about Sayyed, who was only made more modest by the pride and people’s cheers.

Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, the secretary general of Hezbollah today, is the same person he was before he assumed the post. Not only that, but with time he become more modest.

“My father takes pride in the people’s love and trust. He loves them so much. Of course, he does not love them for love’s sake only, but he is also concerned about their interests. He fears for their life in the afterlife [Akhira] more than in this world,” Jawad says.

The first trait that comes to mind when Jawad talks about his father is humanity. He elaborates on this bright side in Sayyed’s personality. In his view, the term “human being” applies to his father in every sense of the word.

This characteristic is further exemplified by the relationship between His Eminence and the most honorable people. We see him carry passion, love and understanding in his heart. He always advises that one should conform with people.

“He calls on us to restore (things). If someone makes a mistake, we have to right it and try to understand it. When two people disagree, we must look for a way to reform it, not to fuel sedition between them.”

“Sayyed Hassan has a high and elegant morality. He has many of the attributes of Amir al-Mu’minin [Commander of the Faithful] (PBUH),” says Jawad. “He has a great ability to control himself. This ability always makes him look into God’s eyes, speak his tongue and act with his hand.”

According to Jawad, “all his dwellings and movements revolve around the pleasure of Allah.

There are red lines in life as there are in politics. His Eminence regards the rights of the people as a red line, without which everything else falls by the waist side. He has endless generosity, and at the same time he does not make anyone feel they owe him gratitude. We, his children, do not know what his exchanges are with the people closest to us. It is forbidden.

The dignity of the people as well as their comfort are a top priority. He is eager to insure the comfort of those around him to an extent that no one expects. For example, he does not stay too late so as not to exhaust the young men [resistance fighters] or embarrass them, even though sitting with him is extremely dear to them. According to his convictions, anything that causes others’ exhaustion is unacceptable.

Sayyed’s concern and fear for the people is not limited to their dunya [temporal world] but rather for their afterlife.” Jawad says. “One time, I asked him, ‘If you were an intercessor, would you intercede for me?’ He replied, ‘I would not only intercede for you, but I would intercede for all the believers.’”

“If we look at these positions and sayings over the years, we see in Sayyed the trait of a human being who has compassion, mercy, self-esteem and the understanding of his people,” Jawad adds.

In Jawad’s opinion, the commandments of Ahl al-Bayt are imbedded in Sayyed’s actions. He treats people in their absence as if they were in front of him. On numerous occasions, his heart aches for the people and he is saddened by their stories. He is very eager to further their piety. He follows up on people’s attendance in mosques. His concern is people’s piety on the grounds that the world has no value if our relationship with God is not sound. This matter will cost the loss of the dunya and the Hereafter. My relationship with God being good means to preserve the rights of people and not fall into sin. This brings good in dunya and in the Hereafter. In Sayyed’s opinion, what is the benefit of doing Jihad while I deprive the people of their rights, or pray while I attack people?

A mountain of patience

“Among other qualities that Sayyed possesses is his mountain of patience. He is insightful and far-sighted, as if he can see things for years to come,” Jawad explains.

“He is a strong administrator, a meticulous person with exceptional memory and a light touch when it comes to management. He is sincere with his feelings and shows them without excuses.

He is a father figure and merciful. At the same time, his love for the people and the Mujahideen does not prevent him from making any remarks to anyone on any subject. He is firm but does insult anyone and lenient but not a pushover.

He convinces you of what he is dictating with love and satisfaction, by clarifying and explaining things to you. He possesses the art of listening. When you sit down with him, he seems to be listening to you par excellence.

In short, his flesh and blood have been affected by the infallible household [Prophet’s family],” Jawad adds.

He also points out that His Eminence seems to be closely following up on the conditions of his family despite the strategic matters he is handling. “He keeps a close eye on the family without violating the privacy and freedoms of its members. We also see this quality during work, even with things we don’t expect. He considers this organization [Hezbollah] a part of his soul and follows it very carefully.”

The humble Sayyed

Jawad discloses some details that highlight Sayyed’s humility, and the fact that he is not embarrassed by serving the people.

“I remember before the 2006 war His Eminence invited his siblings and their families for Iftar at our house. He sat in the middle and prevented anyone from pouring food. He told them, ‘throughout the holy month, people have been serving me [food]. Now it’s my turn to serve you and pour food for you myself.’”

Jawad says that those gathered at the table refused but Sayyed insisted on doing it himself. Here he points out that His Eminence often does things himself in everyday life. He helps in setting the table. Sometimes he heats his food himself. He repeatedly prepares his papers.

He is not demanding or bossy. Because of their great love for him, everyone around him waits for him to ask them to do something.

Sayyed and Imam Khamenei

Jawad points out that His Eminence has a great deal of adoration for Grand Ayatollah Imam Sayyed Ali Khamenei. He follows his recorded lessons, listens to his sermons, and sheds light on anything posted on his behalf. He was so touched when the story of the Leader marrying off one of his sons was circulated. He was affected by the asceticism and humility that accompanied that event. Sayyed always repeats the phrase: look at where we are and where the Leader is!

Sayyed and the Mujahideen

His grave responsibilities did not hinder his ability to closely follow-up on matters concerning the families of the martyrs. With regard to the Mujahideen, Sayyed has a particular sensitivity and passion towards them.

“I remember during the Joroud [battle] and the snow. His Eminence remembered them during ablution and would say, ‘God help them while they perform ablution in this cold.’ Or when he wants to eat, he remembers them and says, ‘I wonder what they are eating now,’” Jawad says.

Jawad pauses and points out that Sayyed is not a show-off. He did not say this to a group of people. Only one person knows these things.

Sayyed puts a great deal of importance on the blood of the martyrs. For him, all the pride that we enjoy comes from those who sacrificed themselves so that the nation can live in dignity.

This is how His Eminence follows social media

His Eminence reads most of the articles and reports. He follows and looks at everything on social media, according to Jawad. Of course, he does not have an account. He, however, receives detailed and lengthy reports on everything every day, including Twitter and Facebook posts. He sees the profiles and pictures of the people on social media. We see them on the screen while he sees them printed on paper. Sayyed even reads most of the letters sent to him. Sometimes, if he does not have time to read everything, his assistants choose funny things of a political nature.

“I ask him what he thinks about some tweets regarding a certain topic. He tells me, ‘I saw the tweets of several people. Aren’t those your friends, Jawad?’”

Sayyed hates foul language and obscenity on social media no matter what party issued it. His Eminence does not permit offending opponents. Of course, the “Israelis” are another topic, says Jawad. There should be manners and decency in political rivalries. He considers that the fraught atmosphere among activists is very bad. People can politely disagree and raise the level of communication, attention and thinking. When Sayyed comes across such types of offensive tweets, he describes them with one word: “wretched”. To him this is the most profound description.

The majalis e-aza are for all Muslims

Sayyed does not only keep a close eye on social media sites while advocating more civilized forms of communication, he also follows a lot of other things. For example, he makes sure that the central majlis e-aza can be attended by all Muslims. Imam al-Husayn is the son of the Prophet (PBUH). In this sense, it is our duty to convey his grievance to everyone. Moreover, when he has time, he looks into the content of the majlis.

Furthermore, His Eminence rejoices greatly with the scientific achievements of the people. He is also delighted with any humanitarian initiative.

Being careful with public rights and money

Jawad stresses that Sayyed is the same person whether he is under the spotlight or alone. To him, the criterion is the satisfaction of Allah.

In this context, he talks about His Eminence’s care for legitimate rights and money in a manner that other people may not notice. “For example, once His Eminence received a present that I liked. He told me, ‘you can take it, but you have to pay for it.’ I wondered and asked him why. He said, ‘I did not receive this present as Hassan the son of Abdul Karim Nasrallah but as the secretary general of Hezbollah. Therefore, you have to pay for it with a certain Hajj. The price of the gifts that are sold are transferred to a [bank] account to help Mujahideen get married.’ He told me confidently, ‘what makes you more special than the other young men?’”

Here, Jawad points out that Sayyed is always concerned with the worries of his people, and he fears for their rights. After 2006, he was ready to take from Hezbollah’s funds to aid people and pay for their health, education, etc.

“Conforming with people” is the permanent commandment at every situation

Sayyed always underscores the need to conform to people in many of the things that we wants to do.

“Following the July 2006 war, I was able to borrow money and buy an ordinary house, and the prices were still acceptable,” says Jawad.

“My father told me at the time, ‘you’re not allowed to. After reconstruction, you return to your home. You have to live the way people are living. You have to rent like them, even if this drives you to move from one house to another. We are not better than people. We have to console them and be equal to them.’ According to His Eminence, it is possible not to share one’s joy. However, consolation during hardship and pain alleviates the heart and spirit. As long as you are my son, you have to accept and live this life with its sweetness and bitterness. If we cannot console them, the least we can do is be equal to them. This is stated in our religion and the morals of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) and his family (PBUT). It is not our business what others do within what God allows. We are accountable to the people who give and love expecting no return. Those are the people of loyalty. The relationship with them is beyond leadership. And the least we can do is to conform with people, leave behind what we can and live in asceticism to be closer to Allah Almighty. Then he reminds me of the holy verse {Never will you attain the good [reward] until you spend [in the way of Allah] from that which you love. And whatever you spend – indeed, Allah is Knowing of it.} (Surah Ali-Imran – Verse 92).”

What is the secret behind Sayyed’s confidence in victory?

“About two years after the 2006 war, I said, ‘Father, I know you are someone who cares a lot about the speeches you give. Honesty is a red line for you, so you are careful not to shake the trust between you and the public. In the beginning of the July war, tell me how were you able to say your famous sentence ‘as I always promised you victory, I promise you victory again’? What did you base this certainty on at the beginning of the war and the whole world was against us? He told, ‘aren’t you a reader of the Quran?’ I said, ‘Yes.’ He gave me two verse: {O you who have believed, if you support Allah, He will support you and plant firmly your feet.} (Surah Muhammad – Verse 7) and {Indeed, Allah defends those who have believed. Indeed, Allah does not like everyone treacherous and ungrateful.} (Surah Al-Hajj – Verse 38). ‘This is Allah’s promise,’ he said.”

“This is certainty,” says Jawad. “The whole world is against us and is conspiring against us. A cruel war is launched against us, yet someone comes with all this confidence and certainty to say this famous sentence. In my opinion, this is the foundation of the great popular trust that Sayyed enjoys today. This has turned him into a symbol of truth and everyone began to see him as a person who is certain.”

No favoritism in employment

For Sayyed, there is no place for favoritism when it comes to jobs.

Jawad says, “once, I waited for three months to get a direct job appointment with him. Sayyed had me disapproved. Although I tried more than once to bring the date forward, but I did not succeed. He even put me at the end of the day. Then, I felt something. I contacted his assistant and told him, ‘I will cancel the appointment but on one condition do not schedule any appointment instead of mine. Let my father rest.’ He said, ‘I accept.’ I said, ‘Cancel my appointment.’ When I met my father later, he told me, ‘you know, my son, when X told me that Jawad canceled the appointment on the condition that you rested, I was very happy because I was very tired. Then I said thank God and I was grateful to you from my heart.’”

The speech is in the mind as it is on paper

There is no doubt that His Eminence’s distinguished speeches have always been admired because of the methodology, strength and eloquence. Every speech is unlike the previous one. Every time you listen to him, it feels like it is the first time. Many wonder how His Eminence prepares his speeches.

In this regard, Jawad tells us that when an idea comes to His Eminence’s mind in any particular subject, he thinks about it before putting it down on paper. “You see him put the points he will include in the speech in his mind. He has mental and intellectual abilities and other unnatural gifts. Let us assume, for example, that he went to deliver a speech and forgot the papers somewhere, nothing changes at all. What is written on the papers is imprinted in his mind – the same sequence and order.

He has a strong memory. This is sometimes evident, for example, when we talk to him about something that might not be a needle in the haystack. 15 days later, on the allotted time he replies to us even though the date is not written down.

How does Sayyed approach politics?

Sayyed has a realistic view on how we should approach politics. In his view there must be flexibility. Nobody takes everything in politics. We have to coexist with people. Politics, in the end, is give and take. Nothing can just be because you say so.

Sometimes His eminence regrets when the public opinion does not wait in a particular case to see what is behind Hezbollah’s decision regarding a certain matter. According to his convictions, it is very wrong to make judgments arbitrarily, especially regarding sensitive subjects.

Jawad concludes his heartfelt talk about his father by pointing out that despite all this compassion and affluent passion, Sayyed is a wise manager, a brilliant and intelligent person, resolute, decisive and deadly in war.

Finally, writing about His Eminence’s other side carries us to another world where there is a lot of beauty. There is no doubt

that Sayyed Nasrallah’s personal and human traits constitute some of the many in an exceptional leader that brought pride to the nation. And even so, everything written and said about him remains too little.

Related

• Sayyed Nasrallah’s Other Side: A Caring Father Passionate about Reading
• Hezbollah SG Sayyed Nasrallah’s Son, Jawad, Tells Al-Ahed Never before Heard Stories about Martyr Hadi

River to Sea Uprooted Palestinian   

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Weekly report on israel’s terrorism on Palestinians (19 – 25 September 2019)

Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in Palestine (19 – 25 September 2019)

Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (19 – 25 September 2019)

Israeli violations of human rights in the occupied Palestinian territory 

19 – 25 September 2019

• Great March of Return in Eastern Gaza Strip: 112 civilians injured, including 39 children, 2 women, 2 paramedics and a journalist.

• 13 civilians injured, including 3 children and a journalist, in the West Bank.

• During 110 incursions into the West Bank, including occupied East Jerusalem: 124 civilians arrested, including 14 children.

• Israeli forces raided ADDAMEER Prisoner Support and Human Rights Association in Ramallah and seized five laptops and other equipment.

• 5 shooting incidents reported against Palestinian fishing boats off the Gaza Strip shore, and 3 incursions into the eastern Gaza Strip

• A house demolished in occupied East Jerusalem; the wall and foundations of another house destroyed in Nablus in addition to an agricultural room and walls of a house in Hebron.                                    

• 66 temporary checkpoints erupted in the West Bank, where 4 Palestinian civilians were arrested. 

• A Palestinian arrested at Erez “Beit Hanoun” Crossing, north of the Gaza Strip.  

Summary 

During the reporting period, PCHR documented 204 violations of the international human rights law and international humanitarian law (IHL) by Israeli forces and settlers in the occupied Palestinian territory.

As part of the Israeli violations of the right to life and bodily integrity, Israeli forces wounded 125 Palestinian civilians in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank. In the Gaza Strip, 112 civilians were wounded, including 39 children, 2 women, 2 paramedics and a journalist at the Great March of Return.  Meanwhile, the Israeli forces wounded 13 Palestinian civilians, including 3 children and a journalist, in separate shooting incidents in the West Bank.

As part of the Israeli incursions and house raids, Israel carried out 110 incursions into the West Bank, including occupied East Jerusalem, and raided civilian houses, attacking and enticing fear among residents in addition to shooting in many incidents. As a result, 124 Palestinians were arrested, including 14 children. As part of Israeli attacks against human rights organizations to hinder their work, Israeli forces raided the office of ADDAMEER Prisoner Support and Human Rights Association in Ramallah and sized a number of laptop and other equipment on Thursday, 19 September 2019.  It should be noted that this is the 3^rd time in the last years the Israeli forces raid the office.

In the Gaza Strip, the Israeli forces carried out 3 incursions into the eastern Gaza Strip and arrested a Palestinian at Beit Hanoun “Erez” crossing.

Under the settlement expansion activities in the West Bank, including occupied East Jerusalem, PCHR documented 6 violations, including confiscating a construction vehicle in southern Bethlehem; destroying a house in al-Tour neighbourhood in Jerusalem; destroying the foundations and retaining wall of a house in Nablus and the walls of a house and an agricultural room in Hebron in addition to a court’s decision forcing a family to vacate their estate in Jerusalem.  Further, the Israeli settlers carried out 6 attacks at the Palestinian civilians and their property in the West Bank.

In terms of the Israeli closure policy, the Gaza Strip still suffers the worst closure in the History of the Israeli occupation in the oPt as it has entered the 14^th consecutive year, without any improvement to the movement of persons and goods and ongoing isolation of the Gaza Strip from the West Bank and the rest of the world. Meanwhile, the West Bank is divided into separate cantons with key roads blocked by the Israeli occupation since the Second Intifada and with temporary and permanent checkpoints, where civilians’ movement is restricted and others are arrested.

1. Violation of the right to life and to bodily integrity

1. Excessive Use of Force against the Great March of Return in the Gaza Strip

The 75^th Great March of Return took off in eastern Gaza Strip on Friday, 20 September 2019, titled “Refugee Camps of Lebanon”. The Israeli attacks resulted in the injury of 112 civilians, including 39 children, 2 women, 2 paramedics and a journalist.

The incidents were as follows:

• Northern Gaza Strip: At approximately 16:00 on Friday, 20 September 2019, hundreds of civilians marched towards the central tent of the Great March of Return (GMR) in Abu Safiyah area, northeast of Jabalia, north of the Gaza Strip. Israeli forces stationed behind sand berms and in military vehicles along the border fence, fired live and rubber bullets as well as teargas canisters at a number of protesters, who threw stones at them. As a result, 24 civilians injured, including 11 children: 16, including 8 children, were shot with live bullets and their shrapnel; 6 , including 3 children, were hit with tear gas canisters; and 2 were shot with rubber bullets. Those wounded civilians were transferred via ambulances belonging to the Ministry of Health and  Union of Health Work Committees (UHWC) to the Indonesian and al-Awda Hospitals and their injuries were classified between minor and moderate. Hamada Suhail Mohamed Sa’d Ghabayin (21), from al-Tuffah neighborhood in Gaza City,sustained serious live bullet wounds in his abdomen.
• Gaza City: at approximately 17:00 on Friday, hundreds of civilians marched in eastern Malakah area, east of Gaza City. Speeches, theatrical performances and other segments were performed at the protest central encampment. Dozens of protestors approached the fence and threw stones with slingshots at Israeli soldiers. The activities continued until 19:00 on the same day. Despite the peaceful nature of the demonstrations, Israeli forces directly stationed along the border fence fired live and rubber bullets and tear gas canisters at the participants. As a result, 24 civilians injured, including 2 children, a woman and a photojournalist: 6 were shot with live bullets and 18 were shot with rubber bullets. The wounded woman is Tahreer Sa’ed Abdul Razeq Baker (30) was shot with a live bullet to the left foot. Photojournalist Abdul Rahman Hani Abdul Qader al-Kahlout (23) was shot with a live bullet to the feet.
• Central Gaza Strip: at approximately 15:00, hundreds of civilians, including women, children and families, took part in the eastern Bureij refugee camp protests; tens of them gathered adjacent to the border fence at a range varying between 3 – 300 meters. A number of protestors approached the fence and threw stones with slingshots at Israeli soldiers. The Israeli soldiers, reinforced with several military SUVs, fired live and rubber bullets in addition to teargas canisters at them. As a result, 14 civilians were wounded, including 8 children: 4 were shot with live bullets and their shrapnel, 2 was shot with rubber bullets and 8 were hit with tear gas canisters.
• Khan Younis:  hundreds participated in Khuza’ah protests. Tens approached the border fence, set tires on fire, attempted to throw stones and firecrackers, and raised Palestinian flags in addition to chanting national songs. Israeli forces fired live and rubber bullets and tear gas canisters at protesters, wounding 13 civilians, including 4 children, a woman and 2 paramedics: one of them was deemed critical; 3 were hit with live bullets and their shrapnel; 6 were hit with rubber bullets and 4 were hit with tear gas canisters. The wounded volunteer paramedics were identified as: Rabah al-Bayyouk (25),who was hit with a rubber bullet in his right arm; and Ghanem Mostafa al-Najjar (45), who was hit with a rubber bullet in his right arm as well, Al-Najjar is a volunteer with the Palestinian Red Crescent Society.  Furthermore, ‘Ali Mostafa Ferwanah (28) sustained serious live bullet wound in his thigh.
• Rafah: hundreds participated in the eastern Shokah protests, where folklore songs and speeches were held. Dozens approached the border fence and threw stones and fireworks at the shielded Israeli soldiers, who responded with live and rubber bullets and teargas canisters against the protestors. As a result, 37 civilians were injured, including 14 children: 23 were shot with live bullets and their shrapnel, 10 were shot with rubber bullets and 4 were hit with tear gas canisters.

2. Excessive use of force in the West Bank:

• At approximately 13:30 on Friday, 20 September 2019, Palestinians from Kufor Qaddoum village, northeast of Qalqiliyah launched their weekly peaceful protest and headed towards the village’s eastern entrance that has been closed by Israeli forces for the past 15 years in favor of “Kedumim” settlement. The demonstrators chanted national slogans demanding end of the occupation and protested the Israeli forces’ crimes against Palestinians in the Gaza Strip. The protestors threw stones at the Israeli soldiers stationed behind sand berms while the soldiers fired sponge-tipped bullets, sound bombs and tear gas canisters at them. As a result, a 46-year-old civilian was hit with a rubber bullet to the hand, a 27-year-old young man was hit with a rubber bullet to the back. The wounded journalist, Ahmed Shawer (27) was hit with rubber bullet to the hand. (the names of the wounded civilians are available at PCHR)
• At approximately at approximately 14:00 on Monday, 23 September 2019, students at Birzeit University and a number of Palestinians in addition to international and Israeli human rights defenders organized a peaceful demonstration at the northern entrance to al-Birah in solidarity with prisoners on hunger strike in Israeli prisons. When the protestors approached the checkpoint near “Beit Eil” settlement, north of the city, Israeli soldiers fired live and rubber bullets, sound bombs and tear gas canisters at them. As a result, 10 students fainted and suffered tear gas inhalation and they received medical treatment on the spot.

3. Shooting and other violations of the right to life and bodily integrity

• At approximately 02:50 on Thursday, 19 September 2019, Israeli forces moved into Ramalah and stationed in al-Manarah Square in the center of the city. a number of Palestinian young men and children gathered and threw stones at Israeli forces. Israeli forces chased the protestors in the center of the city and fired rubber bulets, sound bombs and tear gas canisters at them. As a result, 5 Palestinian young men in their early twenties sustained rubber bullets in their lower extremities of their bodies and they received medical treatment on the spot by Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS) crews. (The names of the wounded civilians are available at PCHR)
• At approximately 11:40 on Friday, 20 September 2019, Israeli gunboats stationed in northwest of Beit Lahia in northern Gaza Strip, chased and opened fire at Palestinian fishing boats sailing within 3- 6 nautical miles. As a result, the fishermen were forced to flee fearing for their lives; neither casualties nor material damage was reported.
• At approximately 18:20 on Saturday, 21 September 2019, Israeli forces moved into ‘Azzoun village, east of Qalqiliyah amidst firing rubber bullets, sound bombs and tear gas canisters at Palestinian civilians claiming that those civilians threw stones at them during their patrol. As a result, a 13-year-old child was shot with a rubber bullet in the leg; a 16-year-old child was shot with a rubber bullet in the thigh; a 17-year-old child was shot with a rubber bullet in the thigh; a 22-year-old young man sustained a rubber bullet wound in the abdomen and a 20-year-old young man sustained a rubber bullet wound to the leg. (The names of those wounded are available at PCHR)
• At approximately 07:20 on Sunday, 22 September 2019, Israeli gunboats stationed offshore, opened fire and chased Palestinian fishing boats sailing within 4 nautical miles off al-Sudaniyah shore, west of Jabalia in northern Gaza Strip. As a result, the fishermen were forced to flee fearing for their lives; no casualties were reported.
• Half an hour later, Israeli gunboats stationed in northwest of Beit Lahia in northern Gaza Strip, opened fire and chased Palestinian fishing boats sailing within 3 nautical miles. As a result, the fishermen were forced to flee fearing for their lives; no casualties were reported.
• At approximately 07:30 on Monday, 23 September 2019, Israeli gunboats stationed in northwest of Beit Lahia in northern Gaza Strip, opened fire and chased Palestinian fishing boats sailing within 3 nautical miles. As a result, the fishermen were forced to flee fearing for their lives; no casualties were reported.
• At approximately 07:20 on Tuesday, 24 September 2019, Israeli gunboats stationed in northwest of Beit Lahia in northern Gaza Strip, opened fire and chased Palestinian fishing boats sailing within 3 nautical miles. As a result, the fishermen were forced to flee fearing for their lives; no casualties were reported.
• At approximately 09:20 on the same day morning, Israeli soldiers stationed in eastern al-Shoka village, east of Rafah, fired tear gas canisters at the farmers. As a result, farmers suffered tear gas inhalation and were forced to leave their lands.

1. Incursions and Arrests

Thursday, 19 September 2019:

• At approximately 00:00, Israeli forces moved into Zeta village, north of Tulkarm. They raided and searched a house belonging to Khalid Ahmed Abu Sharqiyah (19) and then arrested him.

• At approximately 01:15, Israeli forces moved into Balta refugee camp, east of Nablus. They raided and searched a number of houses after which they arrested Yusuf Sa’ed Hashash (22), Nasser Sbaitan (20) and Ra’ed Wahid Abu ‘Awad (19).

• At approximately 02:00, Israeli forces moved into Ramallah. They raided and searched the head office of Addameer Association for Supporting Prisoners and Human Rights in al-Rafedain Square in the first floor of Sabat building. The soldiers broke the main door, tampered with office contents and seized 5 laptops, memory cards, three laptop memories, one laptop card, several books and additionally searching through the belongings of the office. 5 laptops and other contents. Israeli forces had previously raided Addameer office in 2002 and 2012.

• At the same time, Israeli forces moved into Jenin. They raided and searched a house belonging to Mohammed Hesien Manasrah (19) and then arrested him.

• At the same time, Israeli forces moved into Jenin refugee camp, west of Jenin. They raided and searched several houses and then arrested Ahmed Abed Sabbah (20), Mohammed Nathmi Abu Ghurrah (19), Suheib Mari’e al-Zare’i (24), Yusuf Sobhi Shraim (35) and Basel ‘Akramah Stati (27).

• At the same time, Israeli forces moved into Beit Daqou village, northwest of occupied East Jerusalem. They raided and searched a house belonging to Mohammed ‘Omran Rayan (27) and then arrested him.

• At approximately 02:40, Israeli forces moved into Kafel Hares village, north of Salfit. They raided and searched a house belonging to ‘Emad Mahmoud Abdul Hamid al-Qaq (17) and then arrested him.

• At approximately 03:30, Israeli forces moved into Kafer Ne’mah village, west of Ramallah. They raided and searched several houses and then arrested Mohammed Mansour Jobran ‘Abdoh (18) Ehab Mohammed Mohyee Eden ‘Abdoh (18), huein Sa’ed ‘Abdoh (18) and Bara’a Shadi al-Fayez (24).

• At approximately 04:20, Israeli forces moved into Qalqiliyah. They raided and searched several houses and then arrested Mahdi Hashem Sabri (30), Mohammed Na’em Shafiq Bakeer (27), ‘Obadah Abdul Halim al-Haj (25) and Hamzah Yasser ‘Ouweiant (25).

• At approximately 10:00, Israeli forces moved into Sour Baher village, south of occupied East Jerusalem. They raided and searched a house belonging to Monther Younis Hamadah (39) and handed him a summons to refer to the Israeli Intelligence Service at al-Maskobiya detention center in West Jerusalem. Hamadah is husband of Fadwa Hamadah (32), who was sentenced with 10 years of imprisonment in the Israeli prisons after she attempted to carry out a stab attack in Bab al-‘Amoud area in occupied East Jerusalem. Younis received a decision to deny him access to al-Aqsa Mosque for 10 days.

• Israeli forces carried out (6) incursions in Tulkarm, Kuber, Um Safa and ‘Atarah villages, north of Ramallah; al-‘Aroub refugee camp and Beit Kahel village in Hebron. No arrests were reported.

Friday, 20 September 2019:

• At approximately 18:30, Israeli forces moved into Al Mahmoud neighborhood, west of al-‘Issawiyah village, northeast of occupied East Jerusalem. They raided and searched a house belonging to Mahmoud Abdullah Mahmoud (16) and then arrested him.

• Israeli forces carried out (10) incursions in Kafer Romman village, east of Tulkarm; Qalqiliyah, Hejjah and Kafer Thuluth villages, east of the city; Rafat village, west of Salfit; Sarda village, north of Ramallah; Beit Ummer, al-Thaheriyah, Emrish and Abu al-‘Asja villages in Hebron. No arrests were reported.

                                      

Saturday, 21 September 2019:

• At approximately 01:00, Israeli forces moved into al-‘Aroub refugee camp, north of Hebron. They raided and searched 2 houses belonging to Islam Tayseer Banat (14) and Mohammed jamal Abu Sal (15) and then arrested them.

• At approximately 01:30, Israeli forces moved into Beit Kahel village, north of Hebron. They raided and searched several houses and then arrested Omer Mahmoud Abdul Hadi ‘Asafrah (23), Bassam ‘Atiyah al-Zuhour (30), Amir Bassam ‘Atiyah al-Zuhour (20) and Montaser Mahmoud Ismail Ariyoush (22).

• At approximately 03:00, Israeli forces moved into Beit Ummer village, north of Hebron. They raided and searched a house belonging to Mohammed Ahmed ‘Alami (30) and the arrested him.

• At the same time, Israeli forces moved into al-Fawar refugee camp, south of Hebron. They raided and searched a house belonging to Sami Mohammed Janazrah (46) and then arrested him.

• At approximately 09:00, Israeli forces stationed at al-Container checkpoint, north of Bethlehem, arrested Salem Mousa Shadid (20), from Kharsa, south of Hebron, while he was heading to his university in Abu Dese village, east of occupied East Jerusalem.

• At approximately 13:00, Israeli forces moved into Beit Ummer village, north of Hebron and stationed in Safa area. They stopped illegal vehicle, searched it and arrested 3 children, who were inside it and took them to a detention center in “Gush Etzion” settlement, south of Bethlehem. The arrestees were identified as: Suleiman Mohammed Abu Daya (15), Mohammed Bassam Moneer Ekhleil (16), Abdul ‘Aziz Mohammed Shafiq Ekhleil (17), Abudllah Amjad Omer al-Titi (18) and Mohammed Netham Namer Do’mos Ekhleil (18).

• In the afternoon, Israeli forces moved into al-‘Izzariyah village, southeast of occupied East Jerusalem following the funeral procession of Nasim Mokafeh Abu Romi (14) in the village cemetery. They fired rubber bullets and tear gas canisters at houses. As a result, 6 civilians suffered tear gas inhalation and were taken to the Emergency Center in the village to receive treatment. Hundreds of Palestinians, from al-‘Izariyah village, participated in the funeral procession of Abu Romi, who was killed By Israeli forces after he attempted to stab a soldier at Bab al-Silsila Gate in al-Aqsa Mosque in occupied East Jerusalem’s Old City in Mid-August. Abu Romi’s dead body was detained by Israeli authorities until 20 September 2019, when they handed his body to his family.

• At approximately 22:00, Israeli forces stationed at Beit Furik checkpoint, east of Nablus, arrested Emad Nehad Qayem (20), from Ras al-‘Ain neighborhood, south of the city. Israeli forces claimed that they found a knife with Qayem. It should be noted that Palestinian civilians in the West Bank seriously think before buying kitchen sharp tools and carrying them to their houses fearing from being arrested on this ground.

• Israeli forces carried out (5) incursions in ‘Azzoun village, east of Qalqiliyah; Kafel Hares, Haras, Deir Estia, and Bruqin villages in Salfit. No arrests were reported.

Sunday, 22 September 2019

• At approximately 01:30, Israeli forces moved into Beit Kahel village, north of Hebron. They raided and searched a number of houses after which they arrested Mahmoud Salem al-Zuhour (22), Mohammed Tayseer ‘Asafrah (30), Mo’ath Ahmed Mahmoud ‘Asafrah (28), Yusuf Ahmed Mahmoud ‘Asafrah (26) and Zahran Mahmoud ‘Asafrah (36).

• At approximately 02:00, Israeli forces moved into Hazma village, northeast of occupied East Jerusalem. They raided and searched a house belonging to ‘Ali al-‘Afow al-‘Omlah (25) and then arrested him.

• At approximately 3:00, Israeli forces moved into Beit Oula village, west of Hebron. They raided Raed Abdul-‘Afou al-‘Omla’s (25) house, searched it and arrested al-‘Omla.

• At approximately 07:30, Israeli forces backed by 6 military construction vehicles moved about 100 meters into eastern al-Buraij in the central Gaza Strip. They leveled, combed, and repaired the barbed wire in lands adjacent to the border fence. The vehicles then headed to the south east of al-Maghazi. At approximately 15:00, the vehicles redeployed along the border fence.

• At approximately 23:00, Israeli forces stationed at Beit Hanoun “Erez” crossing in northern Gaza Strip, arrested Bassam Mahmoud Yusuf Ghurab (41), from ‘Amer Housing Project in northern Gaza Strip, who owns Donya al-Kahraba’a Company. According to the statement of Ghurab’s brother, Ahmed (33), at approximately 08:00 on Sunday morning, Ghurab went to the Israeli Intelligence Service after he applied for a travel permit to the West Bank and his family then lost contact with him. At approximately 23:00 on the same day, Ahmed received a phone call from the Israeli Intelligence Services informing him that his brother is arrested in Ashkelon Prison for security reasons. Ghurab appeared for the scheduled interview with the Israeli Intelligence Services a week ago but he was dismissed and returned to the Gaza Strip.

• At the same time, Israeli forces established a temporary checkpoint near Jeet village, northeast of Qalqiliyah. They checked Palestinian civilians’ ID cards, searched their vehicles and then arrested Yusuf Ghaleb Hannoun (23), from ‘Anabtah village, east of Tulkarm.

• Israeli forces carried out (3) incursions in Nuba and Taffuh villages in Hebron; Rojeeb village, east of Nablus. No arrests were reported.

Monday, 23 September 2019:

• At approximately 01:00, Israeli forces moved into al-Issawiyah village, northwest of old East Jerusalem. They raided and searched several houses, and then arrested (24) civilians, including (7) children, and took them to al-Maskobiya investigation center. (The names of the arrestees are available at PCHR)

• At approximately 01:30, Israeli forces moved into Bala’a village, northwest of Tulkarm. They raided and searched several houses and then arrested (3) civilians namely; Ali Younis Abu Younis (46); Mahmoud Mohammed ‘Amair (46) and Amjad Wael Abu al-Naser (31).

• At the same time, Israeli forces moved to Bait ‘Anan, northwest of old East Jerusalem. They raided and searched a house belonging to Wissam Elias Rabea’ (22), and then arrested him.

• At approximately 02:00, Israeli forces moved into ‘Azoun village, east of Qalqiliya. They raided and searched 2 houses belonging to ‘Odai Hamza Inaya (27) and Kazem Mofeed Redwan (28) and then arrested them.

• At the same time, Israeli forces moved into Habla village, south of Qalqiliya. They raided and searched a house belonging to ‘Ali Ahmed al-Jada’ (32) and then arrested him.

• At the same time, Israeli forces moved into Abu Dese village, east of the occupied East Jerusalem’s Old City. They raided and searched a house belonging to Isma’el Ali Halabeya (29) and then arrested him.

• At approximately 02:15, Israeli forces moved into Hebron. They raided and searched 2 houses belonging to Nizar Mohammed Ra’fat Sider (26) and Rami Mohammed al-Owaiwi (26) and then arrested them.

• At the same time, Israeli forces moved into Kafer Thuluth village, east of Qalqiliya. They raided and searched several houses and then arrested (3) civilians namely: Abdul Sattar Khader Mara’ba (25); Msallam Mohammed ‘Owda (29) and Mo’nes Fareed Marab’a (20).

• At approximately 02:15, Israeli forces moved into Qarawat Bani Hassan village, northwest of Salfit. They raided and searched 2 houses belonging to Hazem Zaher Mara’i (16) and Abdul Rahman Abdul ‘Aziz Mara’i (22) and then arrested them.

• At approximately 02:20, Israeli forces moved into Birzeit village, north of Ramallah. They raided and searched a house belonging to Sana’ Abed Mghamis Abu ‘Awwad (55) and then arrested her.

• At the same time, Israeli forces moved into Barham village, north of Ramallah. They raided and searched a house belonging to Basel Saleh Falyan (22), a student at Birzeit University, and then arrested him.

• At approximately 02:30, Israeli forces moved into Jenin refugee camp, west of Jenin. They raided and searched several houses and then arrested (5) civilians namely: Tamer ‘Azmi Nasharti (28); Mohammed Karam Nassar (45); Tha’er ‘Awni al-Swaity (24) his brother ‘Iqab (18); and Tareq Zeyad Abu Tabeekh (23).

• At approximately 03:00, Israeli forces moved into al-Duheishah refugee camp, south of Bethlehem. They raided and searched several houses and then arrested (3) civilians namely: Bilal Omar Dawoud (26); Morad Mo’ayad al-Khour (23); and Jamal Osama al-Issa (24).

• At approximately 03:30, Israeli forces moved into Ramallah, and stationed at al-Masayef and al-Masyoun neighborhoods. They raided and searched several houses and then arrested (3) civilians; who were former prisoners at the Israeli prisons, namely: ‘Etiraf Bajes al-Rimawi (45); Wissam Rabea’ (23); and Nassar Jaradat (25).

• At approximately 04:00, Israeli forces moved into ‘Ain al-Lawza in Silwan village, south of occupied East Jerusalem’s Old City. They raided and searched several houses and then arrested (3) civilians namely: Ala’a Tawfiq Abu Tayeh (21); Majdi Wa’el Abu Tayeh (21); and Ishaq Khalid Abu Tayeh (22).

• At approximately 20:00, a large Israeli military force moved into Deir Nitham village, northwest of Ramallah. Dozens of Palestinian protestors gathered on the village streets and threw stones and empty bottles at Israeli soldiers, who responded with live and rubber bullets and teargas canisters against them in addition to firing teargas canisters at houses. As a result, a number of civilians suffered teargas inhalation and they received treatment on the spot. Israeli forces raided and searched several houses and questioned (3) civilians on the spot for about 3hours and they were identified as: Mahmoud Khair al-Tamimi; Mohammed Jawad al-Tamimi; and Youssef Mohammed al-Tamimi. Since 16 September 2019, Israeli forces close the 3entrances of Deir Nitham village, search, abuse, and attack all passersby.

• Israeli forces carried out (5) incursions into the following areas with no reported arrests: Beit Reema, Deir Ghasana and al-Nabi Saleh villages, northwest of Ramallah; al-Zahereya and Abu al-Asja villages in Hebron. No arrests were reported.

Tuesday, 24 September 2019:

• At approximately 01:00, Israeli forces moved into Dura village, southwest of Hebron. They raided and searched a house belonging to Mohammed Ahmed Sharawna (23) and then arrested him.

• At approximately 01:30, Israeli forces moved into Beit Kahel village, northwest of Hebron. They raided and searched a house belonging to Fathi Jehad ‘Asafra (28) and then arrested him.

• Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Halhoul, north of Hebron. They raided and searched a house belonging to Sa’oud Ahmed Zama’ra (27) and then arrested him.

• At approximately 02:00, Israeli forces moved into Hebron. They raided and searched the head office of Union of Palestinian Labor Committee, after breaking the main door using a special tool. Furthermore, they threw all the contents on the ground. Before they leave, they confiscated a printer and a personal computer, and fixed a notification in Jewish Language in Hebron saying: “Do not open this room”.

• Around the same time, Israeli forces moved into Bethlehem, and stationed in Wadi al-Ma’ali neighborhood in the center of the city. They raided and searched several houses and then arrested Omar Ayyad al-Harimi (21) and Mohammed Hadya (22).

• At approximately 02:15, Israeli forces moved into Shaqba village, northwest of Ramallah. They raided and searched a house belonging to Harith Salem Shalash (21) and then arrested him.

• At approximately 02:30, Israeli forces moved into Yatta, south of Hebron. They raided and searched several houses and arrested (6) civilians namely: Mohammed Jebril al-Najjar; Faisal Mohammed Jebril al-Najjar; Mahmoud Abdul Rahman al-Najjar; Rami Ali al-Najjar; Ahmed Mohammed al-Najjar and Ghaleb Mohammed Ali Qara’esh.

• At the same time, Israeli forces moved into Qablan village, southeast of Nablus. They raided and searched several houses and then arrested ‘Odai Najeh Aqra’a (25).

• At approximately 03:00, Israeli forces moved into al-Duheishah refugee camp, south of Bethlehem. They raided and searched a house belonging to Ahmed Mazen Raqban (20) and then arrested him.

• At approximately 03:30, Israeli forces moved into Tarqumiya village, northwest of Hebron. They raided and searched a house belonging to Tamer ‘Aref Qabaja (30) and then arrested him.

• At the same time, Israeli forces stationed at Salem Military Court’s Gate, west of Jenin, arrested Osama Jehad Abu Swais (18), from Jenin, and took him to an unknown destination.

• At approximately 07:30, Israeli forces backed by 6 military construction vehicles and bulldozers moved about 100 meters into al-Nimer Gate, east of Deir al-Balah in the central Gaza Strip. The vehicles leveled the lands and repaired the barbed wire and then redeployed along the border fence.

• Israeli forces carried out (4) incursions in Bani Na’iem and Sourif, Raboud and Boqa’a villages in Hebron. No arrests were reported.

Wednesday, 25 September 2019:

                   

• At approximately 02:00, Israeli forces moved into Nablus. They raided and searched a house belonging to Abdullah Shnaiwer Dekat (29) and then arrested him.

• At approximately 02:20, Israeli forces moved into ‘Ain al-Sultan refugee camp, north of Jericho. They raided and searched a house belonging to Majdi Abdul Qader ‘Ouwedat (26), a former prisoner in the Israeli prisons, and then arrested him.

• At approximately 03:00, Israeli forces moved into Tubas. They raided and searched s house belonging to ‘Aqil Majed Dawoud Daraghmah (26) and then arrested him.

• At the same time, Israeli forces moved into Ethna village, west of Hebron. They raided and searched a house belonging to Tareq Mohammed Tamizi (26) and then arrested him.

• At approximately 04:30, Israeli forces moved into al-Sowanah neighborhood, east of occupied East Jerusalem’s Old City. They raided and searched a house belonging to Fadi Arafat al-Hadmi (43), Jerusalem Affairs’ Minister, and then arrested him.

• At approximately 05:00, Israeli forces moved into Silwan village, south of occupied East Jerusalem’s Old city. They raided and searched a house belonging to ‘Adnan ‘Adel Ghaith (46), Jerusalem’s Mayor, and then handed his family a summons in his name to refer to the Israeli Intelligence Service in “al-Maskobiya” Detention Center in West Jerusalem.

• At approximately 07:00, Israeli forces backed by a number of military construction vehicles moved tens of meters into eastern al-Qarara village, east of Khan Younis in southern Gaza Strip. the vehicles leveled lands in the area for few hours and then redeployed along the border fence.

• At approximately 08:40, a group of Israeli undercover units “Mista’arvim” dressed like Palestinian civilian sneaked into Birzeit village, north of Ramallah, using a civilians vehicle with Palestinian registration plate. the vehicle stopped in Ramallah’s Old City and the special unit groups raided a residential building for Birzeit University and then arrested Netham Sami Emtair (21), a student at Birzeit University from Dura in Hebron.

• At approximately 11:30, Israeli forces moved into Ramallah and stationed in Batn al-Hawa neighborhood in the western area of the city. They raided and searched a house belonging to Samer Mena Saleem al-‘Arbid (38), confiscated paper files related to his work and then arrested him. It should be noted that al-‘Arabid served 5 years in the Israeli prisons.

• Israeli forces conducted (4) incursions in Sa’ir and Beit ‘Awa villages in Hebron; Kafer Qalil and Rojeeb villages in Nablus. No arrests were reported.

III. Settlement Expansion and settler violence in the West Bank including occupied East Jerusalem

1. Demolition and Confiscation of Civilian Property for Settlement Expansion Activities

• At approximately 16:00 on Friday, 20 September 2019, Israeli forces moved into Rakhma area within Taqou’a municipality boundaries in southern Bethlehem. The Israeli forces then confiscated a municipality bulldozer while constructing a water pipeline in al-Bariyia area, which belongs to the municipality boundaries. Eyewitnesses said that the Israeli forces ordered the municipality staff to stop the construction works and then confiscated the bulldozer, claiming that the construction is illegal. Taqou’a Municipality condemned the Israeli attack on its staff and construction vehicles, noting that this attack shows the Israeli ambitions for Palestinian property and territories. The municipality added that this attack constitutes a strong support for the settlers and their greed to establish more settlement outposts on Palestinians’ lands and create Jewish majority. The municipality confirmed that it will defend its rights and thwart all Israeli plans.

• At approximately 11:00 on Tuesday, 24 September 2019, Israeli Municipality bulldozer demolished an under-construction house belonging to ‘Isaa Khalil in al-Tour neighborhood, east of occupied East Jerusalem’s Old City, under the pretext of non-licensing. Khalil’s father said that the Israeli forces accompanied with Israeli Municipality staff moved into al-Tour neighborhood, raided the building of Khalil family and completely surrounded it in order to demolish ‘Isaa’s house, which is located in the 3^rd floor and built of tin plates on an area of 120 square meters. He added that the Israeli Municipality handed his son ‘Isaa a demolition notice to self-demolish his house and gave him until Monday, 23 September 2019. Khalil confirmed that his son started to self-demolish his house, but the municipality staff raided the house and completed the demolition. Khalil added that the Israeli forces attacked the family members while demolishing their houses and severely beat them. As a result, ‘Odai Khalil sustained bruises and wounds and was then taken to a medical center. Furthermore, Khalil two sons, Qusai (21) and ‘Isaa (29) were arrested.

• At approximately 15:00 on Tuesday, 24 September 2019, Israeli forces accompanied with a bulldozer and a vehicle of Israeli Civil Administration moved into the northern entrance to ‘Urta village, east of Nablus. They stationed in al-Mazra’ah area, southeast of the city. The bulldozer demolished the concrete foundations of a 200-sqaure-meter an under-construction house, in addition to a retaining wall. The mentioned house and retaining wall belong to Akram Fawzan Ahmed Darawsha and their costs estimated at NIS 100.000. The demolition was carried out under the pretext of building in Area C without getting a prior permit from the Israeli forces.

• At approximately 09:00 on Wednesday, 25 September 2019, Israeli forces backed by military construction vehicles and accompanied with a bulldozer, 3 excavators and a vehicle of the Israeli Civil Administration moved into al-Hejrah village, east of Dura, southwest of Hebron. The soldiers were deployed in the area while the military construction vehicles demolished the house walls of Sameer Nimer ‘Isaa Nimer Dodain (38), under the pretext of non-licensing. The under-construction house is comprised of 3 story and built on an area of 520 square meters. It should be noted that the Israeli authorities handed Sameer a notice to stop construction works in February 2019 and did not handed him a demolition notice. The house cost is estimated at NIS 800.000.

• Around the same time, Israeli forces backed by military construction vehicles and accompanied with an excavator and a vehicle of the Israeli Civil Administration moved into al-Baq’ah area, east of Hebron. The excavator demolished a 20-sqaure-meter agricultural room belonging to Nader ‘Odah Jaber, under the pretext of non-licensing.

2. Israeli Settler Violence

• At approximately 02:30 on Thursday, 19 September 2019, dozens of Israeli settlers, under the Israeli forces’ protection, moved into Halhoul city, north of Hebron. The settlers attempted to raid al-Nabi Yunis Mosque to perform prayers, therefore, Palestinians closed its gates with iron locks to prevent the settlers from entering it. Meanwhile, dozens of Palestinians gathered, threw stones at the Israeli vehicles and closed the main street with iron barriers. The Israeli soldiers responded with sound bombs, tear gas canisters, and rubber bullets. They also chased the stone-throwers between residential houses. The clashes continued until 04:00, during which, many Palestinian young men suffocated due to tear gas inhalation and no arrests among them were reported.

• At approximately 15:00 on Thursday, a group of Israeli settlers, under the Israeli forces’ protection, moved into Beir al-Sabie’ area in the central of Hebron, to perform prayers in Habron and ‘Atanaiel tombs. The Israeli forces closed Bab al-Zawiyia area and Beir al-Sabie’ Street, in addition to ordering the shops’ owners to close their shops. Meanwhile, dozens of Palestinians gathered, threw stones at the Israeli soldiers, who responded with sound bombs, tear gas canisters, and rubber bullets. They also chased the stone-throwers in Bab al-Zawiyia area and on Abu Humus Street. As a result, many civilians suffocated due to tear gas inhalation. The mentioned area was closed until 20:00.

• On Friday, 20 September 2019, a group of Israeli settlers, from “Beit Eill” settlement, attacked Sayil Darwish (40), from Barqah village, east of al-Birah, while present in his plot of land, according to eyewitnesses’ testimony. As a result, he sustained wounds and bruises in his face and head and was then taken to a medical center in Termas’iyia village. Meanwhile, a number of settlers threw stones at the residents’ vehicles and broke the windows of 3 vehicles.

• At approximately 13:00 on Monday, 23 September 2019, dozens of Israeli buses carrying settlers moved into Sabastiyia village, northwest of Nablus, under the Israeli forces’ protection. They then headed to the archaeological site to perform prayers.

• In evening, a group of Israeli settlers, from “Yatizhar” settlement, south of Nablus, attacked Palestinian civilians’ vehicles with stones while passing through the bypass road adjacent to the settlement. As a result, the windows of 2 taxi cars were broken. A taxi driver said that: “At approximately 18:10 on Momday, 23 September 2019, I was driving my taxi on Ramallah-Jenin road and then entering “Yatizhar” settlement road. Meanwhile, I was surprised with a number of settlers stayed on the top of a mount. The settlers threw stones at my taxi and broke the right window. I increased my speed and did not stop until arrive at the entrance to Jenin.”

• At approximately 22:30 on Monday, Israeli forces moved into Nablus to secure buses carrying Israeli settlers. The settlers headed to Joseph Tomb in Balata village, east of the city, where they performed prayers.

3. Seizure of Palestinian civilians property in favor of settlement associations

On Monday, 23 September 2019, Israeli Magistrates Court issued a decision that orders Samareen family to evacuate their house in Wadi al-Helwa neighborhood in Silwan village, south of occupied East Jerusalem’s Old City, under the pretext of belonging to the Jewish National Fund. Wadi al-Helwa Information Center stated that the court gave the family 90 days to completely evacuate their house, while the latter confirmed that they would appeal the decision before the District Court. It should be noted that the family are fighting from 28 years in the Israeli Courts to protect their house, prove their ownership and refute the settlement association’s claims.

Ahmed Samareen, one of the heirs, said that the Israeli authorities transferred the house ownership to the (Custodian of Absentee Property) in 1983 after the death of his grandfather, Mousa ‘Abdullah Smareen, under the pretext that his sons are living in Jordan and there are no heirs in the oPt. The house are comprised of 4 residential apartments, sheltering 13 members.

1. Closure policy and restrictions on freedom of movement of persons and goods

                          

The Gaza Strip

As the Israeli closure of the Gaza Strip enters its 14th consecutive year, severe restrictions on the freedom of movement of persons and goods enhance the de facto separation of the Gaza Strip and the West Bank.

From time to time, the Israeli authorities close the crossings with the Gaza Strip as a collective punishment policy against Palestinians or due to Israeli holidays. Furthermore, patients and their companions as well as businessmen are arrested while travelling via Beit Hanoun (Erez) Crossing in the northern Gaza Strip. In this week, the Israeli authorities arrested a businessman while travelling via “Erez” Crossing.

Moreover, Israeli naval forces imposed a blockade on the Gaza Sea, chased fishermen, opened fire at them, and confiscated their fishing equipment. During this week, five shooting incidents against fishermen and their boats were reported.

West Bank

In addition to permanent checkpoints and closed roads, this week witnessed the establishment of more temporary checkpoints that restrict the goods and individuals movement between villages and cities and deny civilians’ access to their work. Israeli forces established 66 temporary checkpoints and arrested 4 civilians.

The military checkpoint were as follows:

Hebron:

• On Thursday, 19 September 2019, Israeli forces established 3 checkpoints at the northern entrance to Halhoul village, at the southern entrance to Hebron, and at the northern entrance to Yatta city.

• On Friday, 20 September 2019, 2 similar checkpoints were established at the entrances to Samou’a and Bani Na’iem villages.

• On Saturday, 21 September 2019, Israeli forces established 4 checkpoints at the entrances to al-Shayyoukh, Beit Kahel, Sureef, and Sa’ir villages.

• On Sunday, 22 September 2019, Israeli forces established 3 checkpoints at the entrance to Sa’ir village, at the northern entrance to Halhoul village, and at the southern entrance to Yatta city.

• On Monday, 23 September 2019, 4 similar checkpoints were established at the entrance to al-‘Aroub refugee camp, at the entrances to Samou’a and Beit ‘Awaa villages, and at the southern entrance to Hebron.

• On Tuesday, 24 September 2019, Israeli forces established 4 checkpoints at the entrances to Dura, Beit Ummer, al-Majd, and Dir ‘Asal villages.

• On Wednesday, 25 September 2019, Israeli forces established 4 checkpoints at the entrance to Taramah village, between Beit Kahel and al-Dahiriyia villages, and at the southern entrance to Hebron.

Bethlehem:

• On Sunday, 22 September 2019, Israeli forces established several temporary checkpoints at the villages’ entrances, west and south of the city. They also tightened security measures at military checkpoint. A number of activists said that the Israeli forces established temporary checkpoints on street No. 60 that connects between Bethlehem and Hebron, causing a traffic jam. Furthermore, the Israeli forces closed the entrance to al-Nashnash area with a military checkpoint, south of al-Khader village. The main entrance to Beit Fajjar village, south of Bethlehem, was also closed, causing a traffic jam in “Gush Etizon” square and on a road connecting between al-‘Aroub refugee camp and Beit Ummar village. The Israeli forces were heavily deployed in ‘Aqabet Hasnah square, at the western entrance to al-Khader village.

Ramallah and al-Bireh:

• On Thursday, 19 September 2019, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the southern entrance to Selwad village, northeast of Ramallah.
• On Friday, 20 September 2019, 3 similar checkpoints were established at the entrances to al-Nabi Salah, ‘Aboud and ‘Ein Sina villages.
• On Saturday, 21 September 2019, 2 similar checkpoints were established at the entrance to Termas’iyia village, northeast of the city.
• On Sunday, 22 September 2019, Israeli forces established 3 checkpoints at the entrances to ‘Atarah and al-Nabi Saleh villages.
• On Tuesday, 24 September 2019, Israeli forces established 3 checkpoints at the entrances to al-Nabi Saleh, Selwad and ‘Aboud villages.

Jericho:

• On Friday, 20 September 2019, Israeli forces established 2 checkpoints at the northern and southern entrances to Jericho.
• On Saturday, 21 September 2019, Israeli forces re-established 2 checkpoints at the northern and southern entrances to Jericho.
• On Sunday, 22 September 2019, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the northern entrance to the city.

Nablus:

• At approximately 18:00 on Thursday, 19 September 2019, Israeli forces established a checkpoint on Nablus- Jenin Road, near al-Mas’oudiyia entrance, northwest of the city.

• At approximately 19:00 on Friday, 20 September 2019, a similar checkpoint was established on Nablus-Ramallah Road, near the intersection of al-Sawiyia village, south of the city.

• At approximately 18:00 on Saturday, 21 September 2019, Israeli forces established 2 checkpoints on Nablus-Northern ‘Asirah village Road, and on Nablus-Jenin Road, near al-Mas’oudiyia entrance, northwest of the city.

• At approximately 07:30 on Sunday, 22 September 2019, Israeli forces established a checkpoint on Nablus-Northern ‘Asirah village, north of Nablus.

• At approximately 14:00 on Sunday, 22 September 2019, Israeli forces stationed at Beit Foreek checkpoint, east of Nablus, obstructed the movement of Palestinian civilians’ vehicles and interrogated them. No arrests among them were reported. The same thing recurred at 14:30 on Tuesday, 24 September 2019.

• Qalqiliyia:

• On Thursday, 19 September 2019, Israeli forces established 4 checkpoints at the eastern entrance to Qalqiliyia, and at the entrances to ‘Azoun, Kafur Qaddoum and ‘Izbit al-Tabeeb villages.

• At approximately 20:30 on Friday, 20 September 2019, a similar checkpoint was established between Jayyous and ‘Izbit al-Tabeeb villages.

• On Sunday, 22 September 2019, Israeli forces established 3 checkpoints between Jayyous and ‘Izbit al-Tabeeb village, between Jayyous and al-Nabi Iyyas villages, and at the entrance to Jeet village, northeast of Qalqiliyia.

• On Monday, 23 September 2019, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the entrance to ‘Izbit al-Tabeeb village, east of the city.

Salfit:

• At approximately 16:00 on Saturday, 21 September 2019, Israeli forces established a checkpoint at the entrance to Dir Istiyia village, north of Salfit.

• On Monday, 23 September 2019, Israeli forces established 2 checkpoints near the entrance to Kaful Hares village in “ Ariel” settlement square, north of Salfit, and at the entrance to  Dir Ballout village, west of the city.

Tulkarm:

• At approximately 13:00 on Monday, 23 September 2019, Israeli forces established a checkpoint between the eastern Baqah village and Nazlit ‘Isaa village, north of Tulkarm.

River to Sea Uprooted Palestinian   

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