RAMALLAH (Ma'an) -- Israeli forces clashed with residents of West Bank village Nabi Saleh on Monday, witnesses said, after troops closed the main entrance to the community.

A popular committee spokesman said Israeli forces closed the main iron gate leading to the village around midday, sparking clashes with local youth.

Troops fired tear gas and rubber-coated bullets at the residents, he said.

An Israeli military spokeswoman did not immediately return calls seeking comment.