JERUSALEM, December 15, 2017 (WAFA) – Israeli forces Friday violently suppressed Palestinian rallies across the West Bank and Gaza as Palestinian factions called for a “Friday of Rage” over the US recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital.

Following Friday prayers in East Jerusalem’s Al-Aqsa Mosque compound, thousands of Palestinians rallied inside the mosque compound before hundreds took to the streets to demonstrate but were prevented from entering the Old City by police.

Israeli police beefed up their presence in the holy city, deploying in main streets and setting up barricades in anticipation of Friday rallies.

In Bethlehem, Palestinians held a rally at the northern entrance of Bethlehem city, chanting slogans condemning US President Donald Trump’s decision to recognize Jerusalem as Israel’s capital.

Israeli forces opened fire towards demonstrators, injuring six with rubber-coated steel bullets and causing many to suffocate.

Meanwhile, Palestinians held a similar rally in the northern West Bank district of Tubas, holding signs condemning the US move. Scores suffocated and four detention cases, including a journalist, were reported during ensuing clashes.

Similar clashes were reported in Qalqilia district, the western entrance of Tulkarem, Qalandia military checkpoint, north of Jerusalem, and the northern entrance of al-Bireh city.

In Nablus district, Israeli forces cracked on protestors at Huwwara checkpoint, south of Nablus, injuring many with rubber-coated steel bullets and others to suffocate.

In Gaza, similar rallies were held in various parts of the besieged coastal enclave, including the Salah al-Dein highway, which runs from the northern borders of Gaza towards the southern  borders with Egypt.

Ten Palestinians reportedly were hit with live ammunition.

K.F.