Israeli Forces Kill 3 Gaza Border Protesters, Wound 400
GAZA, April 27
(Reuters) - Israeli troops shot dead three protesters along the Gaza border on
Friday, Gaza medics said, hours after the United Nations human rights
chief criticized Israel for using “excessive force” against demonstrators. Israeli troops have
killed 41 Palestinians and wounded more than 5,000 others since Gaza residents
began staging protests along the border fence on March 30 to demand the right
of return for Palestinian refugees.
The troops were holed
up behind fortifications on their side of the 40km (25-mile) border fence and
fired live ammunition and tear gas at protesters at five locations on the Gazan
side. Gaza medical officials
said two protesters who were struck by bullets were in critical condition in
hospital and 600 others were wounded.
The Israeli military
said 10,000 Gazans were participating in what it described as “riots,” and that
some had tried to breach the border into Israel. It said troops “had operated
in accordance with the rules of engagement” to stop people crossing the border.. read more: