I do not know of another place like Gaza, for sure I have never been inside another like this tiny island entirely surrounded by Israel’s fences and Mediterranean cruising gunships.  The only way in or out is with Israel’s permission, and the two million or more Muslims and Christians inside are near totally disarmed. While there in 2002, I asked my host to take me to a place where one could buy a rifle or handgun, and he did.  Only two hunting rifles were displayed in the sporting goods department of a Gaza City department store. for sale.  But the cost was prohibitive, as much a small auto, 5-10 times US prices.  This was the final proof I needed that Gaza residents are disarmed after 70 years of occupation. No one could afford a gun if they could find one! I was told that owning even a live bullet would land one in an Israeli prison if caught with in in ones pocket by the occupiers. 

I have yet to hear a report, even from the Israel, that any weapon more deadly than rocks have been seen at the month-long border revolt at the narrow, north end of the Gaza strip. A Reuters news service report reflects on the total brutality of the Israeli snipers. It is murder with permission, and finally the UN has made a mild protest. The Palestinian people have nothing left to give but their lives. Attached is a link to my own 2009 stories after a life changing, six-days stay in Gaza. Sad to say, the tunnels to Egypt that fed the Palestinians are now believed to be sealed off.  Hamas: Its Strange Enemies and the Tunnel Network that Feeds Gaza. [Ed.-Charles E Carlson]

Fox News: 4/27/2018- Israeli troops shot dead three protesters along the Gaza border on Friday, Gaza medics said, hours after the United Nations human rights chief criticized Israel for using “excessive force” against demonstrators.

Israeli troops have killed 41 Palestinians and wounded more than 5,000 others since Gaza residents began staging protests along the border fence on March 30 to demand the right of return for Palestinian refugees.

The troops were holed up behind fortifications on their side of the 40km (25-mile) border fence and fired live ammunition and tear gas at protesters at five locations on the Gazan side.

Gaza medical officials said two protesters who were struck by bullets were in critical condition in hospital and 600 others were wounded. FULL STORY BY REUTERS NEWS SERVICE