Israel's Army is training West Bank settlers in preparation for mass Palestinian demonstrations ahead of statehood recognition. The army is in the midst of finalizing Operation Summer Seeds, preparing troops for possible confrontations with Palestinians as they turn to the United Nations next month seeking recognition. The army estimates the statehood bid may lead to mass disorder and demonstrations with Palestinians marching towards settlements and military checkpoints and main West Bank roads. In each settlement the army has determined two different defense lines. If Palestinian protesters cross a first line they will be confronted with crowd dispersal methods such as tear gas, and if they cross a "red line" soldiers will be permitted to shoot at protesters' feet if they attempt to cross. Settlers may be armed with stun grenades and tear gas in advance of the expected protests. The army has not ruled out the possibility that terrorists may take advantage of the protests and mingle with demonstrators in order to shoot at Israelis.
