It was another violent week of rallies on the Gaza-Israel border. Thousands of Palestinians participated in the third straight week of protests, billed as "the great march of return". The aim is to break through the security fence and reclaim lands occupied by Israel. Stephanie Freid reports from the border.

STEPHANIE FREID GAZA-ISRAEL BORDER "I'm a few hundred meters from the fence separating Gaza from Israel. As you can see, thick smoke blankets this area as Palestinian protesters burn tires and Israeli flags on the Gaza side of the fence. Protesters are also throwing petrol bombs and, according to Israel's army, explosive devices at soldiers. As was the case last week, Israeli snipers are positioned here on these hills - Israel has come under international criticism for using live fire against unarmed protesters. Israel's government maintains it will do what is necessary to keep Gazans from breaching the fence. Also this week there's an uptick in ambulance activity here - an indication that live fire - which we're hearing - is claiming more casualties. Hamas - the extremist body that controls the Gaza Strip - is also being criticized by various international bodies for encouraging Gazans to escalate protests and breach the fence. Israel accuses Hamas operatives of hiding out among protesters. The International Criminal Court's chief prosecutor warned both Israel and Hamas this week she'll be scrutinizing the situation for escalation endangering civilians. STEPHANIE FREID, CGTN, THE GAZA-ISRAEL BORDER."