20 Hurt as Palestinian Protesters Clash with Israeli Troops

Hundreds of Palestinian protesters on Thursday confronted Israeli security forces in the West Bank at a demonstration in solidarity with Palestinian prisoners held by Israel.

Some 2,000 people gathered at the Beitunia military checkpoint on Thursday, hoping to march to a nearby military prison. When the Israeli military prevented them from proceeding, protesters began throwing stones and burning tires, the Associated Press reported.

Israeli soldiers responded with rubber-coated bullets and tear gas to disperse the crowd.

Palestinians have staged protests across the West Bank all week in solidarity with the 4,500 prisoners held by Israel.

Quoting Palestinian medics, Agence France Presse said around 20 protesters were injured in the clashes.