RAMALLAH
Hundreds of Jewish settlers stormed a local shrine in the West Bank city of Nablus in the early hours of Thursday, triggering clashes with Palestinian residents.
Israeli soldiers fired live ammunition to disperse Palestinian demonstrators who had gathered to protest the settlers' presence at Joseph's Tomb, eyewitnesses said.
No injuries have yet been reported.
According to Israeli Radio, over 900 Jewish settlers entered the site in coordination with the Israeli army and began performing prayers.
Palestinian youths then pelted the intruders with stones, the broadcaster said.
Jews believe the site – a traditional flashpoint for violence – is the burial place of the biblical patriarch Joseph.
Muslims, however, challenge the claim, saying the tomb is the final resting place of a Muslim cleric – Sheikh Yussef Dawiqat – who died two centuries ago.
By Alaa Rimawi
englishnews@aa.com.tr
