Israeli soldiers throwing gas canisters at the Gaza border as Palestinian protesters attempt to breach the border fence. Eliyahu Hershkovitz, Haaretz
Oliver Jones, The Guardian: Israel fears ‘explosion of violence’ as US prepares to open embassy in Jerusalem
Decision to relocate into the disputed city in the same week as Israel’s 70th anniversary raises concerns of increased tension.
Police in Israel have started patrols and security sweeps of a southern Jerusalem neighbourhood, anxiously preparing for a US embassy inauguration that Israelis and Palestinians fear may launch a week of violence.
The move on 14 May will mark the start of a potentially volatile week when Israel will celebrate its 70th anniversary and Palestinians mark the “catastrophe”, or Nakba, of their displacement on the 15th.
Nakba day has previously seen violence as the Israeli army responds to demonstrations in the occupied territories. This year, tensions are far higher than usual. Six weeks of protests along the Gaza border, during which Israeli soldiers have shot dead nearly 40 people and wounded hundreds, will culminate that week.
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WNU Editor: The Palestinians do not need an excuse of a new U.S. embassy opening in Jerusalem to decide to unleash mayhem. Israeli - Palestinian violence has been ongoing for as long as I can remember .... including today .... Three Palestinians Killed After Trying to Breach Gaza Border Fence, Israeli Military Says (Haaretz).
