A video purportedly showing a Palestinian woman being shot by Israeli police in a bus station, before falling on the ground, circulated in social media and media outlets.

The woman was identified as Israa Abed, from Nazareth, according to the website Arab48.com, which added that she is a mother of three and studies genetic engineering.

Israeli police said that the woman was carrying a knife and planning to use it, but activists said that that she clearly did not pose a threat that warrants being shot.

The woman's father has been taken by Israeli police for questioning, her friend told Middle East Eye, from Abde's family home.

The friend, who requested to remain anonymous, said the family do not believe their daughter, 29, was involved in any attack against police or others.

She is currently in a critical condition, following surgery, her friend added.