Palestinian protesters clashed with Israeli security forces in the West Bank and East Jerusalem yesterday after United States President Donald Trump recognized Jerusalem as Israel’s capital on Wednesday.

According to Palestinian sources, more than 100 demonstrators were injured, mostly sustaining light injuries. Protestors threw rocks and projectiles at Israeli soldiers who responded with tear gas, water cannons and rubber bullets. Palestinian factions called a general strike on Thursday and declared a day of rage on Friday.

Thousands of Palestinians protested in Gaza and demonstrations also took place in Ramallah, Tul Karm, and Nablus and at the Damascus Gate in Jerusalem.

In Bethlehem, the Church of the Nativity declared a “general day of mourning” and turned off the lights on the Christmas tree in protest.

The Palestinian education ministry declared a day off work, shutting schools, and urged teachers and students to take part in the rallies in the West Bank, the Gaza Strip and Palestinian areas in Jerusalem. A commercial strike was also declared yesterday in East Jerusalem and will continue today.

Major protests are expected today after Friday prayers in East Jerusalem and across the West Bank. The Israel Defense Forces will deploy several battalions in the West Bank and have made preparations for a range of possible scenarios.

(via BICOM)
[Photo: CCTV / YouTube ]