IDF declares ‘closed military zone’ following settler attack that wounded several Palestinians

The IDF has declared an area near the West Bank city of Bethlehem a closed military zone following a settler attack that left several Palestinians wounded.

Soldiers and police officers were dispatched to an area on the outskirts of Bethlehem following reports of a “violent confrontation” between Israelis and Palestinians, the army says.

The military says it also received reports of stone-throwing between the Israelis and Palestinians, and gunfire directed at the Palestinians.

The Palestine Red Crescent reported that 10 Palestinians were wounded in the attack, including one by gunfire.

The army says troops used riot dispersal means, and in addition, “declared a closed military zone in the area,” a move that is likely to restrict the movement of Palestinians living in the area.

Several Israelis were also wounded, but “refused medical attention,” the IDF says.

The incident is under investigation by the Israel Police.