JERUSALEM, January 22, 2011 (WAFA) – Israeli police on Saturday punished residents of Shufat refugee camp, north of Jerusalem, by shutting down the only checkpoint crossing to Jerusalem following all night clashes in the area, according to local residents.

They said students were not able to reach their schools or employees their work after the police closed down the checkpoint.

The police got a court order allowing them to close the checkpoint and prevent exit or entrance to Shufat refugee camp and surrounding areas if policemen at the checkpoint got attacked with stones.

Resident reported serious clashes during the night before between young Palestinians and Israeli police, who fired rubber bullets, tear gas and stun grenades at the stone throwers and homes in the area.

Several people had to be treated for gas inhalation, mainly elderly, children and the sick. A number of young people were also arrested.

The police brought reinforcements to the area following three days of clashes with residents.

R.A./F.A.