Israel gives settlers weapons for September

Bethlehem - PNN - The Israeli military has given West Bank settlers ‘non-lethal’ weapons to use against Palestinian demonstrators this September, according to Haaretz.

A military document, obtained by the newspaper, claims ‘disorder’ will increase due to the Palestinian bid for statehood at the UN. It discusses the possibility of 'marches toward main junctions, Israeli communities, and education centers; efforts at damaging symbols of [Israeli] government’.

The military is also expecting demonstrations on Israel’s international borders, especially with Lebanon.

The document reveals that the Israeli military has been supplying West Bank settlements with non-lethal weapons including tear gas canisters and sonic bombs to use against 'threats' from demonstrators.

In addition, the a system of two ‘red lines’ has been designed to apply around all settlements close to Palestinian villages. Soldiers will be permitted to fire tear gas to disperse demonstrators crossing the first line, but live ammunition at the feet of those crossing the second.

Despite calls from settler groups, the military has not yet issued specific details on when the weapons' use is permitted. Officers are concerned that any instructions could be interpreted as official ‘rules of engagement’ by settlers for use in confrontations with Palestinians.

PNN - Palestine News Network