Israeli occupation forces shot and wounded 30 Palestinian athletes in the besieged Gaza Strip since the start of the “Great March of Return” on 30 March, the Palestinian Ministry of Youth and Sport revealed yesterday.

Several were shot in the head and were in a critical condition, the ministry added.

“A number of the wounded had their lower limbs amputated such as Alaa Al-Dali who was preparing to represent Palestinian in the Asia tournament.”

In addition, he said that the footballer Mohamed Obaid was shot in both of his feet and is suffering severe damage in one of his knees.

Read:Israel injures dozens, including journalists, in fifth week of Gaza protests

The ministry went on to call on the international community and human rights groups to stand up for and “protect Palestinian youth, children and women”.

He also called for opening an investigation into the Israeli crimes against the peaceful demonstrators, as well as affording proper treatment and healthcare for those who were wounded during the Israeli crackdown on demonstrators.