Israeli Forces Use 'Skunk Bombs' Against Palestinian Protesters
By VOA News
11 August 2008
Israeli security forces have started to use a foul-smelling liquid to disperse Palestinian protests in the occupied West Bank.
Israeli police say the new crowd-control method, which they call a "skunk bomb," was used for the first time Friday in the village of Naalin. Palestinians have been holding almost daily protests against a security barrier that Israel is building in the area.
Israeli police say a water-spraying device showered the liquid on the demonstrators, forcing most to rush off to change their clothes.
Israeli officials say skunk bombs are a non-lethal method of dispersing Palestinians who throw stones and fight with Israelis guarding the construction of the barrier. Previously, Israeli security forces have fired tear-gas and rubber bullets at violent protesters.
Israeli officials say medical and legal authorities approved the use of the foul-smelling liquid.
A 10-year-old Palestinian boy was shot dead when Israeli troops fired on demonstrators in Naalin on June 29. Israel's military is investigating the incident.
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