2017 marks 50 years since Israel’s unlawful occupation of Palestinian territory. During this period, Israel has implemented a variety of policies and practices in order to maintain and seize further control over the territory, while creating uninhabitable living conditions for the Palestinian population. This comes despite Israel’s obligations, as the Occupying Power, to protect the environment and the well-being of the protected population.

The majority of the 54 shops inside the historical Souk Al-Qatanin remain unopened since the Israeli authorities closed the Qatanin entrance leading to Al-Haram Al-Sharif (Al-Aqsa compound) on Friday, 14 July 2017. Following the closure of the Old City (14-16 July), only three of the eight entrances leading to Al-Haram Al-Sharif were reopened to worshippers. Israeli authorities, however, installed metal detectors on the three entrances, which worshippers refused to enter through for fear of changes in the status quo.^[1] The Qatanin entrance remains closed.^[2]

Beginning in early June, Palestinian internet providers began blocking approximately sixteen websites allegedly on grounds of a decision made by the Attorney General. Since then, these websites have been blocked and inaccessible to the public. The blocked websites often post news or opinions that are critical of the Palestinian Authority.

Al-Haq participated in the 35th session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, which took place between June 6-23, 2017. Al-Haq's engagement with the Council included a written submission, an oral statement, and participation in a side event marking fifty years of Israeli occupation of Palestinian territory.