Demonstrations and clashes break out in Gaza after deaths of 3 children

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Source: CCTV.com | 12-13-2006 09:21

Demonstrations and clashes have broken out in Gaza following the killings of three Palestinian children. The children were the sons of a top intelligence official loyal to President Mahmoud Abbas. They were shot dead on Monday by unidentified gunmen in Gaza City.

Demonstrators took to the streets on Tuesday to protest the deaths of the children aged 3, 6 and 9. Clashes broke and Hamas gunmen were accused of opening fire on the protestors.

A spokesman for the Hamas security unit in the area denied his men had fired any shots.

A local Fatah leader said the demonstration was intended to be peaceful, though he acknowledged that some children in the protest had provoked Hamas members by throwing rocks at them.

The protesters quickly dispersed.

Monday's killings shocked Palestinians and stoked fears of internal strife.

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas deployed security forces across Gaza in response to the deaths of the three children.

Amidst the heightened tension, the security forces loyal to Abbas exchanged gunfire with Hamas gunmen in the southern Gaza town of Khan Younis.

Hospital officials said two Fatah members were wounded. Two Hamas members were also reportedly wounded.

Both sides accused each other of starting the gunfight.

 

Editor:Du Xiaodan