REUTERS/Mohammed Salem
Seven men were killed by Israeli troops on Friday during the second protest along the Israel-Gaza border in a week, Gaza medical officials told the Associated Press. Palestinians lit tires on fire in an attempt to hide from snipers in thick, black smoke, the report says. Israel responded with live fire, tear gas, and rubber-coated steel pellets. Israel's military said protesters were throwing “explosive devices and firebombs.” On Friday, thousands of Palestinian demonstrators streamed into established encampments that are about several hundred meters from the border fence. So far, 29 Palestinians have died in the demonstrations, which Hamas leaders have said will last for several weeks. Israel claims the protests are a “cover for attacking Israel’s border.” The White House warned people to stay aware from the border and said it condemned “leaders and protesters who call for violence or who send protesters — including children — to the fence, knowing that they may be injured or killed.” The U.N. human rights office said Friday that it has evidence Israeli troops used “excessive force” against Palestinian demonstrators last week.