VIOLENT clashes and protests have erupted across the Middle East following US President Trump’s decision to recognise Jerusalem as Israel’s capital this week.
Hundreds of Palestinians took to the streets in the West Bank and Gaza Strip with some throwing rocks, lighting fires and burning US and Israeli flags at the start of “three days of rage” promised in reaction to the historic decision.
On Thursday, rallies were held across the West Bank cities of Hebron, Ramallah, Nablus, Jenin and Bethlehem, as well as outside Jerusalem’s Old City.
Palestinians have called a general strike in preparation for more protests on Friday. Footage from the streets showed smoke from young protesters burning tires, flags and pictures of the US and Israeli leaders.
In Bethlehem, crowds were fired on with water cannons and tear gas ahead of upcoming Christmas celebrations. Shops and schools across the region were closed, with the Israeli army moving in extra troops to control the crowds.
Read the report by Victoria Craw (news.com.au) in The Daily Telegraph.