April 17, 2003

The IDF opens fire on stone-throwing Palestinian youths in Rafah (killing 1 Palestinian), Tulkarm ( killing a 2d Palestinian); fires on residential areas of Jenin town and r.c., Rafah. The IDF also reportedly surrounds a hospital in Tulkarm, demanding a wanted man was inside; troops withdraw by noon, apparently deciding he is not inside. A 3d Palestinian dies of injuries received on 4/8. (VOI, YA 4/17 in WNC 4/18; NYT, WP 4/18; LAW, PCHR 4/24)