Palestinians die in clashes with Israeli forces during major border protest

The Guardian – At least seven Palestinians have been killed and hundreds wounded by Israeli forces in Gaza, Palestinian medics have said, as protesters kicked off a planned six-week demonstration demanding the right of return for refugees.

Israel’s military said 17,000 Palestinians were “rioting” in six locations in the Gaza strip on Friday, rolling burning tires at the security fence and its troops, which it said were “responding with riot dispersal means and firing towards main instigators”.

Israeli forces enforce a no-go zone for Palestinians on land in Gaza close to the fence and regularly fire on frequent protests along the frontier when young Palestinian men hurl stones and firebombs.

But organisers said the “Great March of Return” demonstration intended to be peaceful, and would comprise of families of men, women, and children camping near the heavily fortified security fence. Cultural events, including traditional dabke dancing, are planned.

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