As protests against the US policy in Gaza unfold on college campuses across the country, the State Department is facing its own protests too. An Arabic-speaking public affairs official has just resigned over the Biden administration's approach to the war in Gaza. Watch in for more details!

US diplomat resigns in protest over the policy in Gaza

Gaza amputees tackle trauma with football

32 Palestinians wounded in Gaza protest

It's nearly 10:00 pm when young Palestinian men begin banging drums and chanting songs, while others attach incendiary devices to balloons -- all closely watched by Israeli snipers on the border.

For six months, Palestinians have gathered regularly along the fence between the Gaza Strip and Israel for often violent daylight demonstrations against Israeli policies.

But in recent weeks they have deployed a new tactic: "night confusion units".

Protests can go on until the early hours.

Organisers say they aim to force the Jewish state to ease its crippling decade-long blockade of Gaza, but residents in nearby Israeli communities say their lives are being destroyed.

Israel accuses Gaza's rulers Hamas of controlling the protests.

Hamas says it backs the demonstrations but is not commanding them and that the idea for nocturnal activity came from protesters themselves.

"Every day the young men on the border invent ways to develop marches and the most recent was the night confusion unit," Hamas spokesman Hazem Qassem said.

An Israeli military official, who did not want to be named, said the night protests do not pose a new challenge.

"Our soldiers, including our snipers, have night vision equipment," he said.

"There are a few dozen, sometimes a few hundred demonstrators (at night)... they burn tyres, throw incendiary bottles and sometimes grenades and do not represent a more important threat than the daytime demonstrations."

'I love you'

The night protests come amid a resurgence in border demonstrations following a brief lull as Egypt and UN officials pursued a long-term truce between Hamas and Israel.

Those talks have stalled, along with efforts to reconcile Hamas and Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas' rival Fatah group.

As a result, there have been renewed warnings of yet another conflict between Hamas and Israel, who have fought three wars since 2008.

One recent night, AFP watched as several hundred protesters gathered a few dozen metres (yards) from Israeli soldiers -- separated by the fence -- near Rafah in southern Gaza.

In a tent slightly further into the strip, young men inflated dozens of white balloons inscribed with "I love you".

They then attached flaming devices to the balloons, and launched them towards Israeli territory.

Others hurled primitively built sound grenades; the booms resonated across the border.

"We will not stop launching incendiary balloons until we break the siege on Gaza," said Abu Anas, one of the orchestrators of the night's activities.

Anas insisted the movement was independent of Hamas.

Saqer al-Jamal, 22, said he and fellow protesters believe Israeli soldiers fear their actions.

"The goal is to confuse the occupation and send our message to the settlers nearby that there is no sleep until we achieve our demands of lifting the siege and returning to our country," he said.

Rony Kissin, spokeswoman for the Israeli community of Kerem Shalom located next to the Gaza border, called the night protests a "nightmare".

"Now they've started to throw sound bombs and it's very, very scary," Kissin said.

"The children are very afraid of it. It's very dangerous. It is really like a weapon."

'Confuse the enemy'

The border protests since March 30 have been labelled the "Great March of Return" because they call for Palestinian refugees to return to their former homes inside what is now Israel.

More than 700,000 Palestinians fled or were expelled in the 1948 war surrounding Israel's creation.

At least 194 Palestinians in Gaza have been killed by Israeli fire since the protests began. One Israeli soldier has been killed in the border area over the same period.

Israel says its actions are necessary to defend the border and stop infiltrations and attacks, which it accuses Hamas of orchestrating.

It also points to the hundreds of thousands of dollars in damage caused to Israeli farmland by the kites and balloons.

But Israel's use of live fire during the protests and clashes has drawn international concern.

Palestinians and rights groups say demonstrators have been shot while posing no real threat.

Just before midnight in one recent protest, dozens of youths approached the fence in an attempt to breach it.

One of the youngsters collapsed to the ground.

Medics treated the 17-year-old, who was shot in the foot.

Mohammed abu Aqaleen, another 17-year-old who said he was shot three months ago and walks with crutches, vowed the demonstrators would "continue to confuse the enemy with sound grenades and horns".

His family fled Jaffa -- now inside Israel -- in the 1948 war.

"This confusion will bring us back to Jaffa," said Aqaleen.

It's nearly 10:00 pm when young Palestinian men begin banging drums and chanting songs, while others attach incendiary devices to balloons -- all closely watched by Israeli snipers on the border.

It's nearly 10:00 pm when young Palestinian men begin banging drums and chanting songs, while others attach incendiary devices to balloons -- all closely watched by Israeli snipers on the border. For six months, Palestinians have gathered regularly along the fence between the Gaza Strip and Israel for often violent daylight demonstrations against Israeli policies. But in recent weeks they have deployed a new tactic: "night confusion units". Protests can go on until the early hours. Organisers say they aim to force the Jewish state to ease its crippling decade-long blockade of Gaza, but residents in nearby Israeli communities say their lives are being destroyed. Israel accuses Gaza's rulers Hamas of controlling the protests. Hamas says it backs the demonstrations but is not commanding them and that the idea for nocturnal activity came from protesters themselves. "Every day the young men on the border invent ways to develop marches and the most recent was the night confusion unit," Hamas spokesman Hazem Qassem said. An Israeli military official, who did not want to be named, said the night protests do not pose a new challenge. "Our soldiers, including our snipers, have night vision equipment," he said. "There are a few dozen, sometimes a few hundred demonstrators (at night)... they burn tyres, throw incendiary bottles and sometimes grenades and do not represent a more important threat than the daytime demonstrations." 'I love you' The night protests come amid a resurgence in border demonstrations following a brief lull as Egypt and UN officials pursued a long-term truce between Hamas and Israel. Those talks have stalled, along with efforts to reconcile Hamas and Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas' rival Fatah group. As a result, there have been renewed warnings of yet another conflict between Hamas and Israel, who have fought three wars since 2008. One recent night, AFP watched as several hundred protesters gathered a few dozen metres (yards) from Israeli soldiers -- separated by the fence -- near Rafah in southern Gaza. In a tent slightly further into the strip, young men inflated dozens of white balloons inscribed with "I love you". They then attached flaming devices to the balloons, and launched them towards Israeli territory. Others hurled primitively built sound grenades; the booms resonated across the border. "We will not stop launching incendiary balloons until we break the siege on Gaza," said Abu Anas, one of the orchestrators of the night's activities. Anas insisted the movement was independent of Hamas. Saqer al-Jamal, 22, said he and fellow protesters believe Israeli soldiers fear their actions. "The goal is to confuse the occupation and send our message to the settlers nearby that there is no sleep until we achieve our demands of lifting the siege and returning to our country," he said. Rony Kissin, spokeswoman for the Israeli community of Kerem Shalom located next to the Gaza border, called the night protests a "nightmare". "Now they've started to throw sound bombs and it's very, very scary," Kissin said. "The children are very afraid of it. It's very dangerous. It is really like a weapon." 'Confuse the enemy' The border protests since March 30 have been labelled the "Great March of Return" because they call for Palestinian refugees to return to their former homes inside what is now Israel. More than 700,000 Palestinians fled or were expelled in the 1948 war surrounding Israel's creation. At least 194 Palestinians in Gaza have been killed by Israeli fire since the protests began. One Israeli soldier has been killed in the border area over the same period. Israel says its actions are necessary to defend the border and stop infiltrations and attacks, which it accuses Hamas of orchestrating. It also points to the hundreds of thousands of dollars in damage caused to Israeli farmland by the kites and balloons. But Israel's use of live fire during the protests and clashes has drawn international concern. Palestinians and rights groups say demonstrators have been shot while posing no real threat. Just before midnight in one recent protest, dozens of youths approached the fence in an attempt to breach it. One of the youngsters collapsed to the ground. Medics treated the 17-year-old, who was shot in the foot. Mohammed abu Aqaleen, another 17-year-old who said he was shot three months ago and walks with crutches, vowed the demonstrators would "continue to confuse the enemy with sound grenades and horns". His family fled Jaffa -- now inside Israel -- in the 1948 war. "This confusion will bring us back to Jaffa," said Aqaleen.

Gaza night protests step up months of anti-Israel unrest

Four Palestinian were killed in fresh clashes with Israeli forces in&nbsp;Gaza on Friday, news agency AFP reported citing Gaza health ministry sources.

According to a report, four Palestinian who have been shot includes one 14-year-old and one 18-year-old. Both were shot in a separate incident by live ammunition.

Palestinians have been protesting at least weekly along the Gaza border since March.

The Israeli army said some 20,000 "rioters" had gathered at multiple sites along the border in this week's protest.

It also said that the protestors hurled "grenades and explosive devices in several different locations" and troops were firing "in accordance with standard operating procedures" but did not go into specific cases.

At least 191 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli fire in that time, the majority during border protests.

Smaller numbers have been hit by airstrikes or tank fire.&nbsp;

More than 700,000 Palestinians fled or were expelled from their lands during the war surrounding Israel's creation in 1948.

Israelis say allowing the so-called "right of return" would mean their country would cease to exist.

&nbsp;

Four Palestinian were killed in fresh clashes with Israeli forces in Gaza on Friday, news agency AFP reported citing Gaza health ministry sources. According to a report, four Palestinian who have been shot includes one 14-year-old and one 18-year-old.

Four Palestinian were killed in fresh clashes with Israeli forces in Gaza on Friday, news agency AFP reported citing Gaza health ministry sources. According to a report, four Palestinian who have been shot includes one 14-year-old and one 18-year-old. Both were shot in a separate incident by live ammunition. Palestinians have been protesting at least weekly along the Gaza border since March. The Israeli army said some 20,000 "rioters" had gathered at multiple sites along the border in this week's protest. It also said that the protestors hurled "grenades and explosive devices in several different locations" and troops were firing "in accordance with standard operating procedures" but did not go into specific cases. At least 191 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli fire in that time, the majority during border protests. Smaller numbers have been hit by airstrikes or tank fire. More than 700,000 Palestinians fled or were expelled from their lands during the war surrounding Israel's creation in 1948. Israelis say allowing the so-called "right of return" would mean their country would cease to exist.

Four Palestinians killed by Israeli fire in border clashes

Violent clashes erupted along the Gaza Strip's border ahead of the controversial opening of the US embassy in Jerusalem on Monday, leaving 52 Palestinians dead from Israeli fire and hundreds wounded in the conflict's bloodiest day in years.

The clashes took place as a White House delegation and Israeli officials gathered for the embassy inauguration ceremony in Jerusalem. It was the bloodiest day in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict since a 2014 Gaza war.

The dead included a 14-year-old, according to the Gazan health ministry, which also provided the overall death toll.

Tens of thousands had gathered near the border in protest while smaller numbers of stone-throwing Palestinians approached the fence and sought to break through, with Israeli snipers positioned on the other side.

Crowds built throughout the day in the Palestinian enclave less than 100 kilometres (60 miles) away from Jerusalem and sealed off from Israel by a blockade.

Israel's military said "over 35,000 Palestinians are currently taking part in violent riots in 12 locations along the Gaza Strip security fence."

"The rioters are hurling firebombs and explosive devices towards the security fence and (Israeli) forces, and are burning tyres, throwing rocks and launching flaming objects in order to ignite fires in Israeli territory and harm (Israeli) troops."

It said soldiers were responding with "riot dispersal means and fire."

The Palestinian Authority government based in the occupied West Bank accused Israel of committing a "terrible massacre."

The inauguration that follows US President Donald Trump's deeply controversial December 6 recognition of the disputed city as Israel's capital also comes at a time of heightened regional tensions.

In a tweet on Monday, Trump hailed the embassy opening as "a great day for Israel".

It follows Trump's announcement last week that the United States is withdrawing from the Iran nuclear deal and Israeli strikes two days later on dozens of Iranian targets in Syria.

Those strikes came after rocket fire toward Israeli forces in the occupied Golan Heights that Israel blamed on Iran.

Monday's inauguration ceremony at 4:00 pm (1300 GMT) will include around 800 guests -- though not Trump himself -- at what until now had been a US consulate building in Jerusalem.

US Deputy Secretary of State John Sullivan will lead the Washington delegation that includes Trump's daughter Ivanka and her husband Jared Kushner, both White House aides, as well as Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin.

Capital for all time

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has repeatedly called Trump's decision "historic", welcomed them at a reception on Sunday.

"Jerusalem has been the capital of the Jewish people for the past 3,000 years," he said.

"It's been the capital of our state for the past 70 years. It will remain our capital for all time."

Sullivan called the embassy "a long overdue recognition of reality."

Saeb Erekat, Palestine Liberation Organisation secretary-general, called it a "hostile act against international law".

Police and the Israeli military deployed massively.

Around 1,000 police officers were being positioned around the embassy for the inauguration.

Israel's army said it was almost doubling the number of troops surrounding Gaza and in the occupied West Bank.

It also dropped leaflets warning Gazans to stay away from the fence, including one with a photo of the Champs-Elysees boulevard in Paris and the caption: "Gaza 2025? The choice is in your hands."

Israeli Defence Minister Avigdor Lieberman said in a message to Gazans "we will protect our civilians with all our means and not enable the fence to be crossed."

Israelis began celebrating on Sunday, as tens of thousands of marched in Jerusalem, some holding American flags, to mark Jerusalem Day.

The annual event is an Israeli celebration of the "reunification" of the city following the 1967 Six-Day War.

Israel occupied the West Bank and east Jerusalem in 1967 and later annexed east Jerusalem in a move never recognised by the international community.

Beyond the disputed nature of Jerusalem, the date of the embassy move is also key.

May 14 marks the 70th anniversary of the founding of Israel.

The following day, Palestinians mark the "Nakba", or catastrophe, commemorating the more than 700,000 Palestinians who fled or were expelled from their homes in the 1948 war surrounding Israel's creation.

Palestinian protests are planned on both days.

Off the table

There had already been weeks of protests and clashes along the Gaza border, with 91 Palestinians killed by Israeli fire there since March 30.

No Israelis have been wounded and the military has faced criticism over the use of live fire.

Israel says it only opens fire when necessary to stop infiltrations, attacks and damage to the border fence, while accusing Hamas, the Islamist movement that runs the blockaded Gaza Strip, of seeking to use the protests as cover to carry out violence.

Jerusalem's status is perhaps the thorniest issue in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Israel considers the entire city its capital, while the Palestinians see east Jerusalem as the capital of their future state.

In the decades since 1967, international consensus has been that the city's status must be negotiated between the two sides, but Trump broke with that to global outrage.

He has argued that it helps make peace possible by taking Jerusalem "off the table", but many have pointed out he has not announced any concessions in return from Israel.

Trump's initial decision led to a series of protests in various Middle Eastern and Muslim countries.

The clashes took place as a White House delegation and Israeli officials gathered for the embassy inauguration ceremony in Jerusalem. It was the bloodiest day in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict since a 2014 Gaza war

Violent clashes erupted along the Gaza Strip's border ahead of the controversial opening of the US embassy in Jerusalem on Monday, leaving 52 Palestinians dead from Israeli fire and hundreds wounded in the conflict's bloodiest day in years. The clashes took place as a White House delegation and Israeli officials gathered for the embassy inauguration ceremony in Jerusalem. It was the bloodiest day in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict since a 2014 Gaza war. The dead included a 14-year-old, according to the Gazan health ministry, which also provided the overall death toll. Tens of thousands had gathered near the border in protest while smaller numbers of stone-throwing Palestinians approached the fence and sought to break through, with Israeli snipers positioned on the other side. Crowds built throughout the day in the Palestinian enclave less than 100 kilometres (60 miles) away from Jerusalem and sealed off from Israel by a blockade. Israel's military said "over 35,000 Palestinians are currently taking part in violent riots in 12 locations along the Gaza Strip security fence." "The rioters are hurling firebombs and explosive devices towards the security fence and (Israeli) forces, and are burning tyres, throwing rocks and launching flaming objects in order to ignite fires in Israeli territory and harm (Israeli) troops." It said soldiers were responding with "riot dispersal means and fire." The Palestinian Authority government based in the occupied West Bank accused Israel of committing a "terrible massacre." The inauguration that follows US President Donald Trump's deeply controversial December 6 recognition of the disputed city as Israel's capital also comes at a time of heightened regional tensions. In a tweet on Monday, Trump hailed the embassy opening as "a great day for Israel". It follows Trump's announcement last week that the United States is withdrawing from the Iran nuclear deal and Israeli strikes two days later on dozens of Iranian targets in Syria. Those strikes came after rocket fire toward Israeli forces in the occupied Golan Heights that Israel blamed on Iran. Monday's inauguration ceremony at 4:00 pm (1300 GMT) will include around 800 guests -- though not Trump himself -- at what until now had been a US consulate building in Jerusalem. US Deputy Secretary of State John Sullivan will lead the Washington delegation that includes Trump's daughter Ivanka and her husband Jared Kushner, both White House aides, as well as Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin. Capital for all time Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has repeatedly called Trump's decision "historic", welcomed them at a reception on Sunday. "Jerusalem has been the capital of the Jewish people for the past 3,000 years," he said. "It's been the capital of our state for the past 70 years. It will remain our capital for all time." Sullivan called the embassy "a long overdue recognition of reality." Saeb Erekat, Palestine Liberation Organisation secretary-general, called it a "hostile act against international law". Police and the Israeli military deployed massively. Around 1,000 police officers were being positioned around the embassy for the inauguration. Israel's army said it was almost doubling the number of troops surrounding Gaza and in the occupied West Bank. It also dropped leaflets warning Gazans to stay away from the fence, including one with a photo of the Champs-Elysees boulevard in Paris and the caption: "Gaza 2025? The choice is in your hands." Israeli Defence Minister Avigdor Lieberman said in a message to Gazans "we will protect our civilians with all our means and not enable the fence to be crossed." Israelis began celebrating on Sunday, as tens of thousands of marched in Jerusalem, some holding American flags, to mark Jerusalem Day. The annual event is an Israeli celebration of the "reunification" of the city following the 1967 Six-Day War. Israel occupied the West Bank and east Jerusalem in 1967 and later annexed east Jerusalem in a move never recognised by the international community. Beyond the disputed nature of Jerusalem, the date of the embassy move is also key. May 14 marks the 70th anniversary of the founding of Israel. The following day, Palestinians mark the "Nakba", or catastrophe, commemorating the more than 700,000 Palestinians who fled or were expelled from their homes in the 1948 war surrounding Israel's creation. Palestinian protests are planned on both days. Off the table There had already been weeks of protests and clashes along the Gaza border, with 91 Palestinians killed by Israeli fire there since March 30. No Israelis have been wounded and the military has faced criticism over the use of live fire. Israel says it only opens fire when necessary to stop infiltrations, attacks and damage to the border fence, while accusing Hamas, the Islamist movement that runs the blockaded Gaza Strip, of seeking to use the protests as cover to carry out violence. Jerusalem's status is perhaps the thorniest issue in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Israel considers the entire city its capital, while the Palestinians see east Jerusalem as the capital of their future state. In the decades since 1967, international consensus has been that the city's status must be negotiated between the two sides, but Trump broke with that to global outrage. He has argued that it helps make peace possible by taking Jerusalem "off the table", but many have pointed out he has not announced any concessions in return from Israel. Trump's initial decision led to a series of protests in various Middle Eastern and Muslim countries.

Gaza unrest: 52 Palestinians dead in deadliest day in years

As the United States embassy is all set to shift from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem on Monday, two Palestinian were killed by Israeli forces during the Gaza protests continuing for the sixth week.

Two men aged 21 and 29-years-old were killed raising the death toll to 47 Palestinian killed by Israeli forces since the protests began in March.

News agency Reuters reported citing health officials reports that, 28 Palestinians have also been wounded in a gunfire by Israeli soldiers today.&nbsp;

Along with demonstrations at Gaza border, protests are expected to further escalate in the day as the United States is set to open its new embassy in Jerusalem. A move announced by US president Donald Trump in 2017 to recognise Jerusalem as Israel's capital.

The protests at Gaza border began on March 30 as Palestinians marched towards Gaza border for what they called "The Great March of Return". These protests are continuing for the sixth week now.

Gathered in thousands of number, demonstrators are demanding access to their families' lost homes or lands which are now in Israel. Two-thirds of the two million Palestinians in Gaza are war refugees or their descendants.

Palestinians have accused Israeli forces of using tear gas and guns as they targeted protestors. However, Israel says its troops have used live ammunition to prevent a border fence from being damaged or breached.

The death toll has gained attention from worldwide media. Israeli forces were also criticised for using live ammunition at protestors. However,&nbsp;&nbsp;Israeli authorities accused Gaza's ruling Hamas movement of instigating violence.

According to media reports over 1000 Palestinians have been injured in the unrest so far. 
&nbsp;

Two men aged 21 and 29-years-old were killed raising the death toll to 47 Palestinian killed by Israeli forces since the protests began in March

As the United States embassy is all set to shift from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem on Monday, two Palestinian were killed by Israeli forces during the Gaza protests continuing for the sixth week. Two men aged 21 and 29-years-old were killed raising the death toll to 47 Palestinian killed by Israeli forces since the protests began in March. News agency Reuters reported citing health officials reports that, 28 Palestinians have also been wounded in a gunfire by Israeli soldiers today. Along with demonstrations at Gaza border, protests are expected to further escalate in the day as the United States is set to open its new embassy in Jerusalem. A move announced by US president Donald Trump in 2017 to recognise Jerusalem as Israel's capital. The protests at Gaza border began on March 30 as Palestinians marched towards Gaza border for what they called "The Great March of Return". These protests are continuing for the sixth week now. Gathered in thousands of number, demonstrators are demanding access to their families' lost homes or lands which are now in Israel. Two-thirds of the two million Palestinians in Gaza are war refugees or their descendants. Palestinians have accused Israeli forces of using tear gas and guns as they targeted protestors. However, Israel says its troops have used live ammunition to prevent a border fence from being damaged or breached. The death toll has gained attention from worldwide media. Israeli forces were also criticised for using live ammunition at protestors. However, Israeli authorities accused Gaza's ruling Hamas movement of instigating violence. According to media reports over 1000 Palestinians have been injured in the unrest so far.

Gaza unrest: 2 Palestinians killed, 28 injured by Israeli forces

Israeli soldiers fired bullets and tear gas at thousands of Palestinian protesters at the Gaza-Israel border on Friday, wounding nearly 200 people, hours after the United Nations human rights chief criticised Israel for using "excessive force".

Israeli troops have killed 38 Palestinians and wounded more than 5,000 others since Gaza residents began staging protests along the border fence on March 30 to demand the right of return for Palestinian refugees.

On Friday, Israeli ground troops, holed up behind fortifications on their side of the 40km (25-mile) border fence, fired live ammunition and tear gas at protesters at five locations on the Gazan side.&nbsp;

The Gaza health ministry said 60 were wounded by gun fire, including a Palestinian journalist who was hit with a bullet in his foot.

Dozens more, including four medics, were treated for gas inhalation, as Israeli forces showered the area with tear gas canisters from behind their fortifications.&nbsp;

Protesters hurled stones and rolled burning tyres toward the fence, and some attached cans of burning petrol to kites and flew them into Israeli territory.

Others cleared away barbed wire coils which Israeli troops had placed in Gazan territory overnight in a bid to create a buffer zone between protesters and the fence.

The protests come at a time of growing frustration for Palestinians as prospects for an independent Palestinian state look poor. Peace talks between Israel and the Palestinians have been stalled for several years and Israeli settlements in the occupied territories have expanded.&nbsp;

In a statement released earlier on Friday, UN&nbsp;High Commissioner for Human Rights Zeid Ra’ad al-Hussein called the loss of life was "deplorable" and that a "staggering number of injuries" had been caused by live ammunition.

Israel`s foreign ministry had no immediate comment but the government has consistently said that it is protecting its borders and that its troops are following rules of engagement.

Named the 'Great March of Return', the protest action revives a longstanding demand for the right of return of Palestinian refugees to towns and villages which their families fled from, or were driven out of, when the state of Israel was created in 1948.

More than 2 million Palestinians are packed into the narrow coastal enclave. Israel withdrew its troops and settlers from Gaza in 2005 but maintains tight control of its land and sea borders. Egypt also restricts movement in and out of Gaza on its border.

Israeli troops have killed 38 Palestinians and wounded more than 5,000 others since Gaza residents began staging protests along the border fence on March 30 to demand the right of return for Palestinian refugees

Israeli soldiers fired bullets and tear gas at thousands of Palestinian protesters at the Gaza-Israel border on Friday, wounding nearly 200 people, hours after the United Nations human rights chief criticised Israel for using "excessive force". Israeli troops have killed 38 Palestinians and wounded more than 5,000 others since Gaza residents began staging protests along the border fence on March 30 to demand the right of return for Palestinian refugees. On Friday, Israeli ground troops, holed up behind fortifications on their side of the 40km (25-mile) border fence, fired live ammunition and tear gas at protesters at five locations on the Gazan side. The Gaza health ministry said 60 were wounded by gun fire, including a Palestinian journalist who was hit with a bullet in his foot. Dozens more, including four medics, were treated for gas inhalation, as Israeli forces showered the area with tear gas canisters from behind their fortifications. Protesters hurled stones and rolled burning tyres toward the fence, and some attached cans of burning petrol to kites and flew them into Israeli territory. Others cleared away barbed wire coils which Israeli troops had placed in Gazan territory overnight in a bid to create a buffer zone between protesters and the fence. The protests come at a time of growing frustration for Palestinians as prospects for an independent Palestinian state look poor. Peace talks between Israel and the Palestinians have been stalled for several years and Israeli settlements in the occupied territories have expanded. In a statement released earlier on Friday, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Zeid Ra’ad al-Hussein called the loss of life was "deplorable" and that a "staggering number of injuries" had been caused by live ammunition. Israel`s foreign ministry had no immediate comment but the government has consistently said that it is protecting its borders and that its troops are following rules of engagement. Named the 'Great March of Return', the protest action revives a longstanding demand for the right of return of Palestinian refugees to towns and villages which their families fled from, or were driven out of, when the state of Israel was created in 1948. More than 2 million Palestinians are packed into the narrow coastal enclave. Israel withdrew its troops and settlers from Gaza in 2005 but maintains tight control of its land and sea borders. Egypt also restricts movement in and out of Gaza on its border.

Gaza protest continues; Israeli forces fire bullets, tear gas at border protesters, 200 wounded

The United States has cleared a grant for the media company started by the Palestinian journalist died in Gaza border clashes last week.

News agency Reuters said quoting a US official that US Agency for International Development has approved $11,700 in a grant for funding for his production company Ain media.

The grant is for technical assistance and equipment such as computers.

Yasser Murtaja who is a cameraman succumbed to injuries after being shot by Israeli troops while he was covering the protest.

Yasser Murtaja was a co-founder of Ain Media.

State Department spokeswoman, Heather Nauert said Murtaja had been vetted under US government guidelines during a press briefing.

"We are aware of reports that a journalist operating in Gaza was killed in the clashes in Gaza. I don`t have specifics about his particular case, but we are looking into it," Nauert told a regular press briefing.

Though the US has approved the grant for him but distanced itself from commenting on his shooting.

After the shooting, the Israeli government explained itself saying that the Israeli Defence Force was not intending to target journalists.

The Israeli army has will also&nbsp;an investigation into the journalist's killing.

Yasser Murtaj's killing was among the nine casualties in a&nbsp;total of Friday.

At least six journalists reportedly have also been shot and wounded.

&nbsp;

US Agency for International Development has approved $11,700 in a grant for funding for his production company Ain media

The United States has cleared a grant for the media company started by the Palestinian journalist died in Gaza border clashes last week. News agency Reuters said quoting a US official that US Agency for International Development has approved $11,700 in a grant for funding for his production company Ain media. The grant is for technical assistance and equipment such as computers. Yasser Murtaja who is a cameraman succumbed to injuries after being shot by Israeli troops while he was covering the protest. Yasser Murtaja was a co-founder of Ain Media. State Department spokeswoman, Heather Nauert said Murtaja had been vetted under US government guidelines during a press briefing. "We are aware of reports that a journalist operating in Gaza was killed in the clashes in Gaza. I don`t have specifics about his particular case, but we are looking into it," Nauert told a regular press briefing. Though the US has approved the grant for him but distanced itself from commenting on his shooting. After the shooting, the Israeli government explained itself saying that the Israeli Defence Force was not intending to target journalists. The Israeli army has will also an investigation into the journalist's killing. Yasser Murtaj's killing was among the nine casualties in a total of Friday. At least six journalists reportedly have also been shot and wounded.

US clears grant for Palestinian journalist shot in Gaza: Report

Israeli Defence Minister Avigdor Lieberman said Sunday there were "no innocent people" in the Hamas-run Gaza Strip after 10 days of protests and clashes left 30 Palestinians dead.

"There are no innocent people in the Gaza Strip," Lieberman told Israel's public radio.

"Everyone's connected to Hamas, everyone gets a salary from Hamas, and all the activists trying to challenge us and breach the border are Hamas military wing activists."

Israel has faced mounting questions over its use of live fire after 10 days of protests and clashes along the Gaza Strip border in which its forces have killed 30 Palestinians, according to Gaza's health ministry.

Violence spiked again on Friday, when clashes erupted as thousands protested along the border, and nine Palestinians, including a journalist, were killed.

On March 30, Israeli forces killed 19 Palestinians as a protest by tens of thousands led to clashes.

There have been no reported Israeli casualties.

Israel says it has only opened fire when necessary to stop damage to the border fence, infiltrations and attempted attacks.

It alleges Hamas, the Islamist movement that runs the Gaza Strip and with whom it has fought three wars since 2008, is seeking to use the protests as cover to carry out violence.

But rights groups have harshly criticised Israeli soldiers' actions, and Palestinians say protesters are being shot while posing no threat to troops.

The European Union and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres have called for an independent investigation, which Israel has rejected.

On Saturday, the European Union raised questions over whether Israeli troops engaged in "proportionate use of force".

Israel has faced mounting questions over its use of live fire after 10 days of protests and clashes along the Gaza Strip border in which its forces have killed 30 Palestinians, according to Gaza's health ministry

Israeli Defence Minister Avigdor Lieberman said Sunday there were "no innocent people" in the Hamas-run Gaza Strip after 10 days of protests and clashes left 30 Palestinians dead. "There are no innocent people in the Gaza Strip," Lieberman told Israel's public radio. "Everyone's connected to Hamas, everyone gets a salary from Hamas, and all the activists trying to challenge us and breach the border are Hamas military wing activists." Israel has faced mounting questions over its use of live fire after 10 days of protests and clashes along the Gaza Strip border in which its forces have killed 30 Palestinians, according to Gaza's health ministry. Violence spiked again on Friday, when clashes erupted as thousands protested along the border, and nine Palestinians, including a journalist, were killed. On March 30, Israeli forces killed 19 Palestinians as a protest by tens of thousands led to clashes. There have been no reported Israeli casualties. Israel says it has only opened fire when necessary to stop damage to the border fence, infiltrations and attempted attacks. It alleges Hamas, the Islamist movement that runs the Gaza Strip and with whom it has fought three wars since 2008, is seeking to use the protests as cover to carry out violence. But rights groups have harshly criticised Israeli soldiers' actions, and Palestinians say protesters are being shot while posing no threat to troops. The European Union and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres have called for an independent investigation, which Israel has rejected. On Saturday, the European Union raised questions over whether Israeli troops engaged in "proportionate use of force".

Israel defence minister says 'no innocent people' in Gaza

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has showered praises on the Israeli troops, a day after they were accused of killing at least 16 Palestinian protesters at the border with Gaza.

Netanyahu thanked his troops for "guarding the country`s borders" and allowing "Israeli citizens to celebrate the [Passover] holiday peacefully".

"Well done to our soldiers. Israel acts vigorously and with determination to protect its sovereignty and the security of its citizens," Netanyahu wrote on Twitter.

At least 16 Palestinians have been killed and more than 1,400 others wounded in confrontations with the Israeli forces as scores of them marched towards the fence that separates Gaza from Israel at the start of a six-week protest.

The Israeli military had apparently resorted to the usage of rubber bullets, tear gas and live rounds.

Thousands of Palestinians were "rioting throughout the Gaza Strip, rolling burning tires and hurling stones at the security fence and at IDF troops, who are responding with riot dispersal means and firing towards main instigators", The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said in a statement.

According to Al Jazeera, Palestinian rights group Adalah said the Israeli army on Saturday "accidentally" took responsibility for the attacks on Palestinian protesters.

According to the group, the Israeli army deleted post from their official Twitter page.According to the group, the Palestinian rights group shared a screenshot of the post, which read,"Yesterday we saw 30,000 people we arrived prepared and with precise reinforcements.

Nothing was carried out uncontrolled everything was accurate and measured, and we know where every bullet landed.

"A slew of Palestinian protesters marched in Gaza along the fence in what is being labelled as the Great March of Return.&nbsp;Condemning the incident UN chief Antonio Guterres asked for an "independent and transparent investigation." European Union diplomatic chief Federica Mogherini asked for the same into the use of live ammunition by Israel`s military.&nbsp;

'Israel acts vigorously and with determination to protect its sovereignty and the security of its citizens,' Netanyahu wrote on Twitter

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has showered praises on the Israeli troops, a day after they were accused of killing at least 16 Palestinian protesters at the border with Gaza. Netanyahu thanked his troops for "guarding the country`s borders" and allowing "Israeli citizens to celebrate the [Passover] holiday peacefully". "Well done to our soldiers. Israel acts vigorously and with determination to protect its sovereignty and the security of its citizens," Netanyahu wrote on Twitter. At least 16 Palestinians have been killed and more than 1,400 others wounded in confrontations with the Israeli forces as scores of them marched towards the fence that separates Gaza from Israel at the start of a six-week protest. The Israeli military had apparently resorted to the usage of rubber bullets, tear gas and live rounds. Thousands of Palestinians were "rioting throughout the Gaza Strip, rolling burning tires and hurling stones at the security fence and at IDF troops, who are responding with riot dispersal means and firing towards main instigators", The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said in a statement. According to Al Jazeera, Palestinian rights group Adalah said the Israeli army on Saturday "accidentally" took responsibility for the attacks on Palestinian protesters. According to the group, the Israeli army deleted post from their official Twitter page.According to the group, the Palestinian rights group shared a screenshot of the post, which read,"Yesterday we saw 30,000 people we arrived prepared and with precise reinforcements. Nothing was carried out uncontrolled everything was accurate and measured, and we know where every bullet landed. "A slew of Palestinian protesters marched in Gaza along the fence in what is being labelled as the Great March of Return. Condemning the incident UN chief Antonio Guterres asked for an "independent and transparent investigation." European Union diplomatic chief Federica Mogherini asked for the same into the use of live ammunition by Israel`s military.

'Well done to our soldiers,' Netanyahu says after Israel kills 16 Palestinian protesters

Tension remained high in the area a day after deadly violence broke out in one of the biggest Palestinian demonstrations there in years.

An Israeli military spokesman said he was checking the details of Saturday's unrest.

On Friday at least 15 Palestinians were killed by Israeli security forces confronting protesters, some of whom the military said had opened fire, rolled burning tyres and hurled rocks and fire bombs toward troops across the border.

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas declared Saturday a national day of mourning and a general strike was called across the occupied West Bank. Thousands in Gaza marched through the streets at funerals for those killed.

Tens of thousands of Palestinians had gathered on Friday along the fenced 65-km (40-mile) frontier, where tents were erected for a planned six-week protest pressing for a right of return for refugees and their descendents to what is now Israel. The Israeli military estimate was 30,000.

Families brought their children to the encampments just a few hundred metres (yards) from the Israeli security barrier with the Islamist Hamas-run enclave. But hundreds of Palestinian youths ignored calls from the organisers and the Israeli military to stay away from the frontier and violence broke out.

Palestinians marking ''catastrophe''

The protest, organised by Hamas and other Palestinian factions, is scheduled to culminate on May 15, the day Palestinians commemorate what they call the "Nakba" or "Catastrophe" when hundreds of thousands fled or were driven out of their homes in 1948, when the state of Israel was created.

Israel has long ruled out any right of return, fearing an influx of Arabs that would wipe out its Jewish majority. It argues that refugees should resettle in a future state the Palestinians seek in the Israeli-occupied West Bank and Gaza. Peace talks to that end have been frozen since 2014.

Israel withdrew its troops and settlers from Gaza in 2005 but still maintains tight control of its land and sea borders.

Egypt also keeps its border with Gaza largely closed.

Abbas's spokesman, Nabil Abu Rdainah, said: "The message of the Palestinian people is clear. The Palestinian land will always belong to its legitimate owners and the occupation will be removed."

Israeli military spokesman Brigadier-General Ronen Manelis said Hamas was using the protests as a guise to launch attacks against Israel and ignite the area. He said violence would likely continue along the border until May 15.

"We won't let this turn into a ping-pong zone where they perpetrate a terrorist act and we respond with pinpoint action. If this continues we will not have no choice but to respond inside the Gaza Strip," Manelis told reporters in a phone briefing.

The Gaza Health Ministry had said on Friday 16 people were killed but revised the death toll to 15 on Saturday.

Israeli troops fired warning shots towards Palestinian youths gathered at the Gaza-Israel border on Saturday, wounding 13 people, health officials said

Tension remained high in the area a day after deadly violence broke out in one of the biggest Palestinian demonstrations there in years. An Israeli military spokesman said he was checking the details of Saturday's unrest. On Friday at least 15 Palestinians were killed by Israeli security forces confronting protesters, some of whom the military said had opened fire, rolled burning tyres and hurled rocks and fire bombs toward troops across the border. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas declared Saturday a national day of mourning and a general strike was called across the occupied West Bank. Thousands in Gaza marched through the streets at funerals for those killed. Tens of thousands of Palestinians had gathered on Friday along the fenced 65-km (40-mile) frontier, where tents were erected for a planned six-week protest pressing for a right of return for refugees and their descendents to what is now Israel. The Israeli military estimate was 30,000. Families brought their children to the encampments just a few hundred metres (yards) from the Israeli security barrier with the Islamist Hamas-run enclave. But hundreds of Palestinian youths ignored calls from the organisers and the Israeli military to stay away from the frontier and violence broke out. Palestinians marking ''catastrophe'' The protest, organised by Hamas and other Palestinian factions, is scheduled to culminate on May 15, the day Palestinians commemorate what they call the "Nakba" or "Catastrophe" when hundreds of thousands fled or were driven out of their homes in 1948, when the state of Israel was created. Israel has long ruled out any right of return, fearing an influx of Arabs that would wipe out its Jewish majority. It argues that refugees should resettle in a future state the Palestinians seek in the Israeli-occupied West Bank and Gaza. Peace talks to that end have been frozen since 2014. Israel withdrew its troops and settlers from Gaza in 2005 but still maintains tight control of its land and sea borders. Egypt also keeps its border with Gaza largely closed. Abbas's spokesman, Nabil Abu Rdainah, said: "The message of the Palestinian people is clear. The Palestinian land will always belong to its legitimate owners and the occupation will be removed." Israeli military spokesman Brigadier-General Ronen Manelis said Hamas was using the protests as a guise to launch attacks against Israel and ignite the area. He said violence would likely continue along the border until May 15. "We won't let this turn into a ping-pong zone where they perpetrate a terrorist act and we respond with pinpoint action. If this continues we will not have no choice but to respond inside the Gaza Strip," Manelis told reporters in a phone briefing. The Gaza Health Ministry had said on Friday 16 people were killed but revised the death toll to 15 on Saturday.

Israeli troops wound 13 on Gaza border, day after deadly protest

Palestinians prepared for further protests near the Gaza border Saturday, a day after a major demonstration led to clashes that saw Israeli forces kill 16 people in the bloodiest day since a 2014 war.

Protesters began returning to a tent city erected near the border with Israel to resume the demonstration planned to last six weeks in the blockaded enclave.

Thousands were attending funerals for those killed, with mourners holding Palestinian flags and some chanting "revenge."

A general strike was being held in both the Gaza Strip and the occupied West Bank.

Israel defended its soldiers'&nbspactions on Friday when troops opened fire on Palestinians who strayed from the main tent city protest -- attended by tens of thousands -- and approached the heavily fortified fence cutting off the Gaza Strip.

The Israeli military says it opened fire only when necessary against those throwing stones and firebombs or rolling tyres at soldiers.

It also said there were attempts to damage the fence and infiltrate Israel, while alleging there was an attempted shooting attack against soldiers along the border that caused no casualties.

But Palestinians accused Israel of using disproportionate force, while human rights groups questioned Israel`s use of live fire.

UN chief Antonio Guterres called for an "independent and transparent investigation."

In addition to the 16 killed, more than 1,400 were wounded, 758 of them by live fire, with the remainder hurt by rubber bullets and tear gas inhalation, according to the Gazan health ministry.

No casualties were reported among Israelis.Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas declared Saturday a day of national mourning and in a speech said he held Israel fully responsible for the deaths.

"The large number of martyrs and people wounded in peaceful popular demonstrations shows that the international community must intervene to provide protection to our Palestinian people," he said.

An Israeli military spokesman said Friday`s events were "not a protest demonstration" but "organised terrorist activity."

He accused Hamas, the Islamist movement that runs the Gaza Strip and which has fought three wars with Israel since 2008, of being behind it and threatened wider military action if it continued.

"If it continues, we shall have no choice but to respond inside the Gaza Strip against terrorist targets which we understand to be behind these events," Brigadier General Ronen Manelis told journalists.

The six-week protest is in support of Palestinian refugees and the timetable holds significance for a range of reasons that have added to tensions.

It began on Land Day, when Palestinians commemorate the killing of six unarmed Arab protesters in Israel in 1976, and as Jewish Israelis readied to observe the Passover holiday, which started at sundown on Friday.

Protests will continue until the United States opens its new Jerusalem embassy around May 14, a move that has provoked deep anger among the Palestinians, who see the city`s annexed eastern sector as the capital of their future state.

May 14 will also mark 70 years since the creation of Israel, while Palestinians will commemorate what they call the Nakba, or "catastrophe," the following day.

Nakba commemorates the more than 700,000 Palestinians who either fled or were expelled from their homes in the war surrounding Israel`s creation in 1948.US President Donald Trump has harshly criticised the

Palestinians in the past, but the State Department said only that it was "deeply saddened" by the loss of life and urged steps to lower tensions. 
Human Rights Watch criticised Israel`s actions.

"Israeli allegations of violence by some protesters do not change the fact that using lethal force is banned by international law except to meet an imminent threat to life," the New York-based group said, calling the number of killed and wounded "shocking."

Israel`s arch-foe Iran, longstanding supporters of Hamas, condemned the "shameful" killing of protesters and mocked the fact that it happened as Israeli Jews prepared to mark Passover.&nbsp

"On the eve of Passover (of all days), which commemorates God liberating Prophet Moses and his people from tyranny, Zionist tyrants murder peaceful Palestinian protesters -- whose land they have stolen -- as they march to escape their cruel and inhuman apartheid bondage," Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif tweeted.

Israel had deployed troop reinforcements along the border, including more than 100 special forces snipers, saying it would prevent attempts to break through the fence.

Protests along the border are common, often culminating in young Palestinian men throwing stones at Israeli soldiers who respond with tear gas along with rubber and live bullets.

But the "March of Return" protest that began on Friday is larger scale and is intended to involve families with women and children camping in tent cities near the border for weeks.

Palestinians prepared for further protests near the Gaza border Saturday, a day after a major demonstration led to clashes that saw Israeli forces kill 16 people in the bloodiest day since a 2014 war

Palestinians prepared for further protests near the Gaza border Saturday, a day after a major demonstration led to clashes that saw Israeli forces kill 16 people in the bloodiest day since a 2014 war. Protesters began returning to a tent city erected near the border with Israel to resume the demonstration planned to last six weeks in the blockaded enclave. Thousands were attending funerals for those killed, with mourners holding Palestinian flags and some chanting "revenge." A general strike was being held in both the Gaza Strip and the occupied West Bank. Israel defended its soldiers'&nbspactions on Friday when troops opened fire on Palestinians who strayed from the main tent city protest -- attended by tens of thousands -- and approached the heavily fortified fence cutting off the Gaza Strip. The Israeli military says it opened fire only when necessary against those throwing stones and firebombs or rolling tyres at soldiers. It also said there were attempts to damage the fence and infiltrate Israel, while alleging there was an attempted shooting attack against soldiers along the border that caused no casualties. But Palestinians accused Israel of using disproportionate force, while human rights groups questioned Israel`s use of live fire. UN chief Antonio Guterres called for an "independent and transparent investigation." In addition to the 16 killed, more than 1,400 were wounded, 758 of them by live fire, with the remainder hurt by rubber bullets and tear gas inhalation, according to the Gazan health ministry. No casualties were reported among Israelis.Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas declared Saturday a day of national mourning and in a speech said he held Israel fully responsible for the deaths. "The large number of martyrs and people wounded in peaceful popular demonstrations shows that the international community must intervene to provide protection to our Palestinian people," he said. An Israeli military spokesman said Friday`s events were "not a protest demonstration" but "organised terrorist activity." He accused Hamas, the Islamist movement that runs the Gaza Strip and which has fought three wars with Israel since 2008, of being behind it and threatened wider military action if it continued. "If it continues, we shall have no choice but to respond inside the Gaza Strip against terrorist targets which we understand to be behind these events," Brigadier General Ronen Manelis told journalists. The six-week protest is in support of Palestinian refugees and the timetable holds significance for a range of reasons that have added to tensions. It began on Land Day, when Palestinians commemorate the killing of six unarmed Arab protesters in Israel in 1976, and as Jewish Israelis readied to observe the Passover holiday, which started at sundown on Friday. Protests will continue until the United States opens its new Jerusalem embassy around May 14, a move that has provoked deep anger among the Palestinians, who see the city`s annexed eastern sector as the capital of their future state. May 14 will also mark 70 years since the creation of Israel, while Palestinians will commemorate what they call the Nakba, or "catastrophe," the following day. Nakba commemorates the more than 700,000 Palestinians who either fled or were expelled from their homes in the war surrounding Israel`s creation in 1948.US President Donald Trump has harshly criticised the Palestinians in the past, but the State Department said only that it was "deeply saddened" by the loss of life and urged steps to lower tensions. Human Rights Watch criticised Israel`s actions. "Israeli allegations of violence by some protesters do not change the fact that using lethal force is banned by international law except to meet an imminent threat to life," the New York-based group said, calling the number of killed and wounded "shocking." Israel`s arch-foe Iran, longstanding supporters of Hamas, condemned the "shameful" killing of protesters and mocked the fact that it happened as Israeli Jews prepared to mark Passover. "On the eve of Passover (of all days), which commemorates God liberating Prophet Moses and his people from tyranny, Zionist tyrants murder peaceful Palestinian protesters -- whose land they have stolen -- as they march to escape their cruel and inhuman apartheid bondage," Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif tweeted. Israel had deployed troop reinforcements along the border, including more than 100 special forces snipers, saying it would prevent attempts to break through the fence. Protests along the border are common, often culminating in young Palestinian men throwing stones at Israeli soldiers who respond with tear gas along with rubber and live bullets. But the "March of Return" protest that began on Friday is larger scale and is intended to involve families with women and children camping in tent cities near the border for weeks.

Gazans ready for new protests after bloodiest day in years

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