Abbas decrees ban on armed militias

OCHA records renewed intense fighting between Hamas-affiliated forces and Fatah after an earlier ceasefire. The violence precedes the June division of Palestinian governing institutions.

Israel closes the Karni crossing, severely restricting Gaza commercial goods movements; a limited grain conveyor remains operational. Date is reported in the UN humanitarian chronology.

After several days of armed factional conflict, Hamas assumes control of Gaza. Fatah-led Palestinian Authority institutions remain dominant in the West Bank. OCHA reports heavy Palestinian...

Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas declares a state of emergency, dissolves the unity government and appoints Salam Fayyad prime minister, deepening the institutional split.

President Abbas names ministers of a new emergency government in the West Bank after the Gaza split. Its legitimacy and relationship with the elected legislature are contested.

The Israeli cabinet designates Gaza a hostile territory and imposes further restrictions including on fuel supplies; OCHA documents ensuing electricity-related impacts.

OCHA publishes an assessment of intensified restrictions on people and goods since June 2007 and their serious effects on livelihoods and economic life. The publication date is used as the event date.

A ceasefire between Israel and Palestinian armed groups in Gaza takes effect. Reuters documents civilian hopes for respite and resumption of fishing and ordinary economic activity.

The Egyptian-negotiated calm ends amid renewed rocket fire and military escalation. OCHA identifies its expiry as part of the immediate context of the December offensive; responsibility for...

Israeli air attacks begin a major military offensive in Gaza. OCHA reports extensive strikes and civilian harm, while noting Israeli statements that the operation responded to rocket and mortar fire.