The death of a PA (Palestinian Authority) resident of Hebron in Soroka Medical Center has sparked the latest round of PA violence in areas of Yehuda, Shomron and eastern Yerushalayim.

The prisoner, who was being treated for cancer, died in the hospital. The prisoner, Hamas terrorist Maisara Abu Hamdiyeh died as a result of his terminal illness, but PA Prime Minister Salim Fayed used the opportunity to condemn Israel, as did the PA minister of prisoner affairs, with both calling on Israel to open the doors to its prisons to international observers. Some PA officials accused Israel of “malfeasance” as well as “delaying medical care which contributed to his death.”

There were calls for a renewed “intifada” and the news of the death sparked violence and limited rioting in a number of prisons, including Ramon, Nafcha and Eshel Prisons. Three days of mourning are being observed throughout PA autonomous areas. Security commanders fear the situation will deteriorate during the funeral service for the dead terrorist as Abu Mazen continues pointing an accusing finger at Israel.

Israel Police officials explain that another parole board hearing to discuss his release was set for Tuesday, 22 Nissan 5773, but the prisoner in question died. Police explain they were in the process of having him released from custody.

At Shoter Square in Hebron at least 12 firebombs were hurled at security forces. Rock-throwing attacks were massive during some hours of the day on the road leading from Gush Etzion south, towards Hebron. There was sporadic violence in other areas as well, along with rallies in Ramallah and other PA cities. Israeli security forces used riot control adjuncts to restore order.

B’chasdei Hashem there were no reports of injuries among Israeli security forces and civilians.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)