Fire erupted in the besieged Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem tonight during an eruption of gunfire, with Israeli soldiers firing flares and throwing smoke bombs, witnesses said.
Flames leaped out of three rooms at the compound. Exchanges of gunfire could be heard outside, though it was not clear what set it off.
The fighting, which began around 11.45 p.m. (9.45 p.m. Irish time), was reported to be the most intense since the beginning of the month-long siege.
Israeli forces have been surrounding the church since April 2nd, when more than 200 Palestinians, including gunmen, took refuge inside as Israeli troops invaded. The fourth Century church is believed by Christians to be the traditional birthplace of Jesus Christ.
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Agencies