Three Palestinians killed in clashes with Israeli army: Gaza ministry

Three Palestinians including a 14-year-old boy were killed by Israeli fire on Friday on the Gaza border, as clashes erupted with security forces during protests, the enclave's health ministry said.

Fares Hafez al-Sersawi, 14, and 24-year-old Mahmud Akram Mohammed Abu Samane, both died after being shot in the chest during demonstrations east of Gaza City, ministry spokesman Ashraf al-Qudra said.

Hussein al-Rakab, 28, died after being shot in the head near Khan Yunis in the south of the Gaza Strip, Qudra said.

A further 376 people were wounded, including 126 who had been shot, according to health ministry figures.

Seven were in a critical condition including a medical volunteer.

Qudra did not detail how many of those hurt were shot and how many suffering from the affects of tear gas.

The Israeli military said around 20,000 Palestinians took part in Friday’s protests at numerous points along the Gaza border, continuing a series of demonstrations which began in March.

Grenades, explosives and stones were launched at Israeli soldiers posted behind the barrier which separates Gaza from Israel, the military said.

Israeli forces responded with live fire and an aircraft also carried out two strikes in Gaza, the military said.