VIDEO - Hundreds of Palestinians clashed with Israeli security forces in several locations in the West Bank on Wednesday, as the Palestinian Authority launched its official statehood celebrations across West Bank cities.
A 16-month-old Israeli baby suffered light injuries when a stone struck her head in a riot between Tapuah and Migdalim junctions. She was taken to Schneider Hospital in Petah Tikva. Three Palestinians were arrested during clashes, and an Israeli citizen was lightly injured from stones hurled at him while he was travelling near the West Bank city of Halhul.
More on tensions in the West Bank
Baby hurt during clashes (Video: Shomron Regional Council)
( צילום: מועצה אזורית שומרון)
Around 40 Palestinians clashed with IDF forces near Beit Omar, and dozens of others rioted near the Qalandiya checkpoint.
- Some rioters set tires on fire and stoned security forces, who used crowd-control measures to control the scene, including sonic cannons and tear gas.
IDF troops arrest rioter at Qalandiya
In another incident, some 200 Palestinians rioted near Zif Junction, east of Hebron. Demonstrators stoned security forces, who used crowd-control measures there, as well.
- For full coverage of PA's statehood bid click here The Palestinian Authority issued several statements urging West Bank Palestinians to avoid clashing with the Israeli security forces. 📷 Burning tires at Qalandiya (Photo: Ohad Zwigenberg) Israel however, is gearing for the possibility that Palestinian rallies will turn into violent riots
.The IDF Central Command has been placed on high alert, including the mobilization and deployment of extra forces in the sector.
Israel security forces have been instructed to use the proper discretion to avoid any loss of life.
Palestinian security forces are also on high alert and have instructed all rallies be held in Palestinian Area A – which in under their full control – in order to avoid any friction with IDF forces or West Bank settlers.