ModBBC News Online: World: Middle East
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Monday, 15 April, 2002, 12:24 GMT 13:24 UK
Gunfire erupts near Bethlehem church
The stand-off has been going on for two weeks
Israeli troops are reported to have exchanged fire with armed Palestinians holed up in the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem, as they step up psychological pressure on those inside.
Israeli Radio reported that fighting had broken out when Israeli troops took control of a hotel on Manger Square which overlooks the church compound.
The military has also been bombarding the area with confusing noises and thick smoke in an apparent attempt to disorientate some 200 people inside.
The stand-off around the church has continued for almost two weeks, despite attempts by Israel and church leaders to resolve the situation.
Snipers' box
Bethlehem's Governor, Mohammed Al Madani, who is inside the church, said one Palestinian had been shot in the leg by Israeli sniper fire, according to the AFP news agency.
Israeli military officials said two Israeli soldiers had been slightly wounded.
Each side blames the other for starting the fire-fight.
An explosion overnight in Bethlehem was due to the controlled destruction of two bomb workshops, the Israelis said.
The BBC's Jeremy Bowen reports that smoke and sonic booms have been let off by the Israelis around the church.
Loudspeakers broadcast dogs barking, cocks crowing and women screaming, in an attempt to disorientate those inside, he said.
A protected box - which Palestinians say contains Israeli snipers - has been lowered from a nearby crane overlooking the church and gunshots have been heard coming from it, our correspondent reports.
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