Eight settlers arrested during violent clashes in West Bank

Eight settlers arrested during violent clashes in West Bank

2011-03-01 06:00:37 GMT+7 (ICT)

JERUSALEM, ISRAEL (BNO NEWS) -- Eight settlers on Monday were arrested during violent clashes at the Havat Gilad outpost in the West Bank, the Haaretz newspaper reported.

The clashes took place after Israeli security forces arrived at the Havat Gilad outpost to demolish three structures at the unauthorized settlement. Police officers allegedly fired rubber bullets to disperse the residents.

As a result, at least 13 residents were lightly wounded which sparked the fury of approximately 100 right-wing young activists who gathered on Jerusalem's Begin Road and blocked it with burning tires.

Police said that officers fired paintball guns in accordance with the rules of engagement and as a response to the stones thrown at them by the settlers. Security forces also claimed that residents had knives and other instruments which could be used for stabbing.

An investigation was launched to clarify the violent clashes as settlers claimed to have evidence of rubber bullets and tear gas used by border agents. Police forces did not respond to these allegations.

The Havat Gilad outpost is home to several dozen settlers and has been evacuated twice by Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) in the past. The outpost is located in the Samaria Regional Council area.

On February 18, the UN Security Council held a vote on a resolution to condemn Israeli settlements in the West Bank and East Jerusalem area. Fourteen Security Council members voted in favor of the resolution but the U.S. voted against it.

The U.S. vote vetoed the resolution as it has the power to block draft resolutions due to being one of the five permanent council members. Prior to the voting, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas rejected a compromise offered by the U.S. in exchange for the withdrawal of the draft resolution.

U.S. State Secretary Hillary Clinton said that the U.S. opposes new Israeli settlements but the UN Security Council resolutions are not the right vehicle for advancing negotiation between Israel and Palestine.

Palestine demanded a stop to settlement construction in the disputed East Jerusalem and West Bank area as a key element for continuing peace talks with Israel. However, the Jewish country continued construction despite the condemnation from the international community.

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