3 Palestinians killed in clashes with Israeli army
GAZA: Three Palestinians, including a 14-year-old boy, were killed by Israeli fire on Friday on the Gaza border, as clashes erupted with security forces during protests, the enclave’s Health Ministry said.
Fares Hafez al-Sersawi, 14, and Mahmud Akram Mohammed Abu Samane, 24, died after being shot in the chest during demonstrations here, ministry spokesman Ashraf al-Qudra said.
Hussein al-Rakab, 28, died after being shot in the head near Khan Yunis in the south of the Gaza Strip, Qudra said.
A further 376 people were wounded, including 126 who had been shot, according to Health Ministry figures. Seven were in a critical condition including a medical volunteer.
The Israeli military said 20,000 Palestinians took part in Friday’s protests at numerous points along the Gaza border, continuing a series of demonstrations which began in March.
Grenades, explosives and stones were launched at Israeli soldiers posted behind the barrier, which separated Gaza from Israel, the military said.
Israeli forces responded with live fire and an aircraft also carried out two strikes in Gaza, the military said.
Border protests have been ongoing since March 30 in the Gaza Strip.
At least 198 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli fire in Gaza since March 30, while one Israeli soldier has been shot dead by a Palestinian sniper.
Israel says its actions are aimed at protecting its territory, soldiers and civilians who live close to the Gaza border.