Nine Palestinians were killed in the second week of Hamas instigated violence as 20,000 gathered along the border with Israel on Friday, throwing rocks and firebombs. Massive amounts of tires were burned in an attempt to obscure attempts to approach the security fence.

“Our forces are using riot disposal means and live fire in accordance with the rules of engagement,” the army said in a statement. Israeli military spokesman Lt. Col. Jonathan Conricus said Hamas organizers were trying to use protesters as a diversion to “open up the fence and then to insert terrorists into Israel.” Conricus said snipers were used “sparingly” and only against those individuals that posed a “significant threat.”

Hamas had called for 10,000 tires to be burned on Friday. The IDF used smoke dispersal methods to deal with the noxious fumes.

Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar led the protests at one of the five major protest sites, calling for the protestors to “breach the borders and pray at Al Aqsa (on the Temple Mount in Jerusalem).”

He added: “If we explode, we will explode at the Israeli occupation.

The rioters responded by chanting, “We are going to Jerusalem, millions of martyrs.”

Ahead of Friday’s march, Hamas announced it would pay compensation to families of those killed or injured, ranging from $200 to $500 per injury and $3,000 per death.

At least 16 Palestinians were killed last week in violent protests that coincided with Land Day, most identified as being members of Hamas’ military wing.