IDF Spokesperson Saturday, March 20, 2010

Violent and illegal riot in in Iraq-Burin Earlier Today

A violent and illegal riot took place today in Iraq Burin, near the
community of Bracha. Dozens of Palestinians from the village of Iraq-Burin
arrived at the area, inciting a provocation. IDF soldiers arrived at the
scene in order to prevent a further clash and were attacked by dozens of
Palestinians who violently hurled rocks at the force.

Soldiers responded with riot dispersal means, which included the use of
rubber bullets, in accordance with procedures, and identified hitting two
Palestinians.

One of the Palestinians was evacuated by the Red Crescent and the second
evacuated himself from the area.

Contrary to what was published, live fire was not used. The Palestinians
were hurt by rubber bullets used during the riot. Is should be noted that
Gas canisters were used prior to the use of rubber bullets.

Israeli officials have recently held extensive negotiations with figures
from the area of Nablus in order to prevent such a clash, following the
recent clashes in the area.

The IDF will not allow the existence of violent and illegal riots, that put
human lives at risk.

Commander of the Shomron regional brigade, Colonel Itzik Bar, will hold
later today an investigation into the circumstances of the event.

It was later reported by Palestinian sources that one of the Palestinians
died of his wound, while the other was fatally wounded.