Israel/Palestinian Terr.: IDF troops kill three Palestinians in Gaza protests Oct. 5 /update 24

Event

Israel Defense Forces (IDF) troops killed at least three Palestinian protesters and wounded over 126 others during the latest iteration of weekly protests in the Gaza Strip along the Israel-Gaza border, on Friday, October 5. An estimated 20,000 Palestinians participated in the demonstrations at several points along the border fence, with some burning tires, launching incendiary devices, and throwing rocks at Israeli troops. IDF soldiers reportedly responded by firing tear gas and live ammunition at the protesters. On Thursday, October 4, an Israeli military spokesperson announced that the IDF had increased security measures along the border, and that additional forces would be deployed to the area to "thwart terror activity and prevent infiltrations into Israel from the Gaza Strip." Nevertheless, further protests are likely along the Israel-Gaza border in the coming days and weeks.

Context

Palestinian protesters have rallied at the Gaza border fence since March 30 in a Hamas-supported movement dubbed "The Great March of Return." At least 193 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 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.