Israeli police storm holy site as Sharon threatens Arafat with assassination

HUNDREDS of Israeli police in riot gear stormed a disputed holy site yesterday, firing tear gas, stun grenades and plastic bullets to disperse Muslim worshippers throwing stones and shoes at them.

After the initial clashes, thousands of Palestinians barricaded themselves in two mosques in the walled compound for about two hours, before police agreed to let them leave without threat of arrest.

More than 20 Palestinians were hurt and at least nine arrested in the most violent confrontations at the Al Aqsa Mosque compound, known to Jews as the Temple Mount, since fighting broke out in September 2000.