Israeli soldiers launch tear gas at Women's Day demonstration

Eleven Palestinian women were hurt by tear gas inhalation Saturday when Israeli forces dispersed a demonstration marking International Women's Day.

Dozens of Palestinian women rallied early Saturday near Qalandia checkpoint between Ramallah and Jerusalem to mark International Women's Day.

Israeli forces stationed at the checkpoint launched tear gas canisters at high velocity towards the women in response to the protest.

Israeli forces closed the checkpoint to Palestinians immediately after the crowd approached it.

As Israeli soldiers fired tear gas canisters, Palestinian men hurled stones at the soldiers.

One protester told Ma'an that Palestinian women "want to live free from occupation in an independent Palestinian state."

The rally was organized by the General Union of Palestinian Women.

An Israeli army spokeswoman did not immediately return calls seeking comment.