Israel Matzav

Clashes at Kalandia, problems ahead on Gaza, Jordan and Lebanon borders

There are riots at the Kalandia checkpoint, at the entrance to Jerusalem from the east, and there are several potential problems brewing on Israel's borders with Gaza (where 'Palestinians' have approached the 'security fence'), Jordan and Lebanon, as the 'Palestinians' observe Land Day.

Palestinian protesters were clashing with Israeli forces at the Kalandiya checkpoint, throwing rocks, firebombs and burning tires. Security forces were using large amounts of tear gas, stun grenades, sound weapons and foul-smelling water to disperse the protesters.

A large number of protesters arrived at the checkpoint from Ramallah. At least one was injured on his arm by a rubber bullet and taken to the hospital.

Preparations took place along all of Israel’s fronts. The IDF announced that Defense Minister Ehud Barak ordered West Bank crossings closed for a 24-hour period.

In Bethlehem, dozens of protesters were throwing stones at an IDF checkpoint after breaking through a line of Palestinian police.

Earlier, PA security forces had blocked the protesters from approaching the checkpoint. The protesters stopped in front of the Palestinian police and sat in the road, chanting: "To Jerusalem, we will march."

Israel Police deployed large numbers of police and border police forces in and around Moshav Avivim near the Lebanese border Friday morning, ahead of the expected demonstrations. Security forces set up checkpoints to prevent protesters from encroaching on the Lebanese border, where at least 10 people were killed in clashes that erupted during last years Nakba Day commemorations.

A chief superintendent in the police's Northern District said the preparations were designed with lessons learned from the deadly events last year. Police were prepared for crow control, armed with tear gas and riot gear.

Police said they were coordinating with the army, who was in turn coordinating with the United Nations in Lebanon.

YNet adds:

Jordanian news sites have reported that some 8,000 people are gathering in order to take part in the massive march towards the Israeli border. There is increased security presence in the area.

Lebanese newspaper As-Safir reported that 120 buses will be transporting Lebanese participants and participants from Palestinian refugee camps to the Global March on Jerusalem.

And for those of you wondering how you get all those great pictures at home, here are some brave photographers (several dozen?) hiding while they take pictures.

Labels: Jordan, Land Day, Lebanon, Palestinian riots

posted by Carl in Jerusalem @ 3:01 PM