Nine children killed in Gaza by Israeli airstrikes, Greece calls for end to violence

Palestinian health officials in the Gaza Strip said 20 people, including nine children, have been killed by Israeli airstrikes in Gaza.

The Hamas terrorist organisation fired seven rockets at Jerusalem amid tensions between Palestinians and the Israeli police at religious sites in the disputed city that had extended after Palestinian families who had not paid their rent were evicted from their homes.

In retaliation to the rocket attacks, Israel carried out airstrikes on Gaza.

Hamas spokesman Abu Obeida said the rockets were a response to “crimes and aggression” by Israeli forces in Jerusalem.

“This is a message the enemy has to understand well,” he added.

The Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in Jerusalem was the site of clashes between Israeli police and Palestinians throwing stones.

The mosque is the third holiest site in Islam, and Muslims believe it was built on the site where Mohammed, the founder of Islam, ascended to heaven.

A total of 228 Palestinians were sent to hospitals and clinics for treatment, according to the Palestinian Red Crescent, while 21 Israeli police officers were hurt, including three who were hospitalised.

Israeli paramedics said seven Israeli civilians were also hurt.

In response to this escalation of violence, the Greek Foreign Ministry said in a statement:

"Greece expresses its deepest concern over the violent incidents that have taken place in Jerusalem in recent days and have resulted in the injury of hundreds of people,  some of whom are in critical condition."

"In this context, Greece calls on all parties to refrain from any use of violence which could lead to further escalation," the statement added.

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