NABLUS, April 3, 2018 (WAFA) – Israeli forces Tuesday raided Sebastia archeological site in the north of the West Bank to secure the place for Jewish settlers and clashed with Palestinian residents, according to Mayor Muhammad Azem.

He said Israeli forces broke into the town of Sebastia and occupied rooftops of Palestinian homes near the archaeological site to provide protection for hundreds of settlers who stormed it to perform religious rituals.

He said the raid by the soldiers and the settlers triggered clashes with the local residents.

The soldiers opened fire at the Palestinians injuring two with live ammunition in the abdomen and foot. The two were rushed to Nablus hospitals for treatment.

Sebastia officials fear the settlers plan to take over the archeological site, considered one of the main Palestinian tourist attractions where John the Baptist is buried.

K.F./M.K.