Palestinians launch new sniper offensive

RAMALLAH — Palestinians have launched plans to escalate the mini-war in the West Bank and Gaza Strip by shooting at Israeli civilians and soldiers.

So far, one Israeli has been killed and three others were injured. An Israeli teacher was shot dead and three others were injured on Friday when their commuter bus was ambushed near the Jewish settlement of Kiryat Arba. The bus driver was critically injured.

Military sources said a car with Palestinian gunmen ambushed the bus about 500 meters outside the settlement.

In Hebron, an Israeli infantry patrol came under fire from Palestinian gunmen. Nobody was reported injured.

Palestinian leaders said they have prepared forces to ensure an escalation of violence. They point to constant calls for clashes with Israelis.

"We will see big demonstrations on Friday and Saturday," Fatah leader Marwan Barghouti said.

Hours later, Muslims rioted on Jerusalem's Temple Mount after Friday prayers during the fast month of Ramadan. Four Palestinians were injured when Israeli police fired rubber bullets.

The fighting focused around Lion's Gate of the Old City outside the Al Aksa complex. Hundreds of Palestinians hurled stones toward police as officers responded with rubber bullets and tear gas.

Prime Minister Ehud Barak said the Palestinian effort is meant to wear down Israeli resolve. He pledged to retaliate against those who attack Israelis. "We have undergone much worse," Barak said.