Israel/Palestinian Terr.: Violent clashes reported during Gaza protests August 24 /update 14

Event

Local reports indicate that at least 189 Palestinian protesters were wounded during clashes near the Israel-Gaza border on Friday, August 24. Over 50 of the wounded people were reportedly hit by live fire. According to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), approximately 5000 people participated in Friday's protests along the Gaza border fence. Protesters reportedly threw rocks and Molotov cocktails at Israeli security personnel, while the IDF responded with tear gas and live fire. Continued protests are expected along the Israel-Gaza border in the coming weeks.

Context

Palestinian protesters have rallied at the Gaza border fence weekly since March 30 in a Hamas-supported movement dubbed "The Great March of Return." More than 160 Palestinians and one Israeli soldier have been killed in border clashes since the protests began.

Advice

Individuals present in Israel and the Palestinian Territories are advised to monitor developments to the situation. Due to the underlying terrorist threat, travelers in Israel, the West Bank, and the Gaza Strip are advised to report any suspicious objects or behavior to the authorities. 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.