Palestinian rioters opened fire on IDF soldiers safeguarding 3,000 Jewish worshippers at Joseph’s Tomb near Nablus on Wednesday night.

Rocks and bricks were thrown at the crowd, who were praying, and their IDF escorts.

The attack escalated when an automatic weapon was used to shoot at the soldiers, who returned fire.

One rioter who had been firing shots was seriously injured. He was arrested and taken to Rabin Medical Centre in Petach Tikva for treatment.

Four other rioters were also injured during the confrontation.

The soldiers were eventually able to disperse the riot and worshippers were able to access the tomb and continue praying in the lead up to Yom Kippur.

No IDF soldiers or Jewish worshipers were hurt in the conflict.

Officially, it is the role of the Palestinian Authority to ensure the safety of those visiting the holy site.