Palestinians in East Jerusalem strike in protest over police raids in Shuafat

Palestinian shops and businesses in East Jerusalem shut down to protest Israeli police raids in the area that have prompted fierce clashes between police and Palestinian protesters.

Israeli police have been hunting for a suspect in the Shuafat refugee camp who is wanted for carried out a deadly shooting attack at a checkpoint on Sunday that killed a soldier.

Police have been combing Shuafat for the suspect, setting up checkpoints and deploying groups of armed officers to question residents. The heavy police presence has sparked intense clashes with local youth. The checkpoints have choked off entry and exit points out of the area, disturbing daily life for residents.

The general strike was called to protest the crackdown. Schools and shops close across East Jerusalem, including in the Old City, whose colorful stores catering to tourists and locals alike are usually abuzz with activity.