Hamas seemed to adhere to the Egyptian-brokered cease-fire with Israel on Friday, as the weekly border riots were widely restrained.
Around 8,000 Palestinians participated in Hamas-organized rallies along the security fence between the Gaza Strip and Israel on Friday, largely staying at least 300 yards from the fence, in adherence to a Hamas order made at Egypt's request.
The protesters burned tires and threw rocks, and some approached and attempted to damage the border fence. IDF forces responded with riot-control measures and with live fire to attempts to damage the fence.
The protesters dispersed when it began to rain.
Gaza's Health Ministry said 40 Palestinians were wounded by Israeli fire and tear gas, without giving details. Witnesses said most of the injuries occurred in stone-throwing incidents at the usual five protest locations.
While Palestinian media outlets reported that there had been deaths, this was not confirmed by officials.
On Thursday, Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories Maj. Gen. Kamil Abu Rokon issued a warning to Gazans in a video posted on Facebook.
"Hamas is the mastermind of the violent marches on the border and anyone who comes 100 meters [328 feet] from the fence will put themselves in danger. Consider yourself warned," he said.
Earlier this week, Hamas and Israel fought a cross-border battle of rocket attacks and airstrikes, triggered by a botched covert Israeli raid in Gaza. An Egyptian-brokered cease-fire ended the two-day flare-up.
