Tensions are high in the Middle East after an Israeli security guard shot and killed a Palestinian protester.

Israeli police said the guard opened fire out of self defense after he was stopped at a barricade set up by Palestinians and rocks were thrown at him.

The incident took place overnight at the Aqsa mosque in Jerusalem's Old City. The Palestinian killed was identified as Samir Serhan.

After the shooting, protesters threw stones and set cars on fire. Several were injured -- including Israeli police.

The Jerusalem Post reported up to 1,000 people joined a funeral procession in Jerusalem for Serhan overnight.

Mourners clashed with border police and set two more cars on fire. Tear gas had to be fired into the crowd to clear the streets.