Gunman in Gaza
Photo: AP
9 killed in clashes between Hamas, Fatah
Fierce battles between rivaling factions claim lives of nine people across Strip Wednesday morning, including 16-year-old teen
Nine people were killed in clashes between Hamas and Fatah Wednesday, including six Fatah gunmen, a security officer affiliated with the organization, and a 16-year-old teen. It was not clear who the ninth victim was.
Additionally, several gunmen from both factions were wounded in fire exchanges across Gaza.
Death Toll Rising
Hamas takes over Fatah security compound near Jabalya to seize control of northern Gaza Tuesday night; witnesses report at least 20 of organization's operatives killed. Meanwhile, Fatah central committee decides to suspend activities of its ministers in unity government
Hamas members tried to take over the house of Fatah's spokesman in the Strip, Maher Maqdad, but witnesses said that he apparently managed to escape the place.
Hamas gunmen are also threatening to blow up a building where Fatah security members are hiding, if the security officers fail to surrender themselves.
The battles continued across the Strip Wednesday morning, as Hamas Gunmen attacked positions controlled by security forces loyal to Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas throughout central Gaza.
A fierce battle took place in the Shati refugee camp between Hamas gunmen and members of a family loyal to Fatah supported by armed members of the Palestinian presidential guard. A 16-year-old teen was killed and several people were injured in the clash.
A security man affiliated with Fatah was killed later during a battle in central Gaza.
The Palestinians are hopeful that a protest of members from both factions and members of the Egyptian delegation in Gaza, planned to be held across Gaza City Wednesday, will succeed in brining an end to the fire.
However, Hamas said that they were determined to complete the takeover, and take control over Fatah's outposts.
