Israel/Palestinian Terr.: 21 Palestinians wounded in Gaza border protests Mar. 1 /update 47

Event

Thousands of Palestinians protested along the Israeli-Gazan border on Friday, March 1, in what marked the 49th consecutive Friday demonstration as part of the "Great March of Return" movement. Palestinian protesters burned tires and hurled rocks and explosive devices at Israeli troops, who responded by firing tear gas and live ammunition. At least 21 Palestinians were wounded by Israeli live fire.

Heightened tensions, demonstrations, and clashes between Israeli security forces and Palestinians are to be expected along the Israeli-Gazan border over the coming weeks, particularly on Fridays.

Context

Palestinian protesters have rallied at the Gaza border fence since March 30, 2018, in a Hamas-supported movement dubbed "The Great March of Return." Over 220 Palestinians and one Israeli have been killed in associated clashes between Israeli troops and Palestinian protesters.

Advice

Individuals in Israel and the Palestinian Territories are advised to monitor developments to the situation and to avoid all protests and demonstrations due to the risk of violence. Some Western governments advise their citizens against all travel to the West Bank, the Gaza Strip, and areas near the Israeli-Lebanese, Israeli-Syrian, and Israeli-Egyptian borders.