US Demands Changes in Israeli West Bank Operations After Civilian Death
US Secretary of State Blinken calls for "fundamental changes" in Israeli security forces' West Bank operations following the unintentional killing of an American-Turkish activist during a protest.
In a significant development, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has called for substantial modifications to Israeli security forces' operations in the West Bank. This statement comes in the wake of the tragic death of Aysenur Eygi, an American-Turkish citizen, during a demonstration approximately one week ago.
The West Bank, under Israeli occupation since 1967, has been a focal point of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict for over seven decades. The region, home to about 3 million Palestinians, has witnessed frequent protests against Israeli occupation and settlement expansion, which is considered illegal under international law.
Blinken emphasized the need for "fundamental changes" in the Israeli security forces' modus operandi, including revisions to their rules of engagement. He stated, "No one should be shot and killed for attending a protest. No one should have to put their life at risk just to purely express their views."
The Israeli military has acknowledged that it was "highly likely" they "unintentionally" shot Eygi during what they described as a "violent riot" in the Palestinian village of Beita. However, eyewitnesses dispute this account, asserting that Eygi was shot in the head while standing in an olive grove after the clashes had subsided.
The incident has reignited discussions about the use of live ammunition by Israeli forces against protesters, a practice that has long been criticized by human rights organizations. It also highlights the complex dynamics of the West Bank, which is divided into Areas A, B, and C, each with different levels of Palestinian and Israeli control as per the Oslo Accords signed in the 1990s.
Blinken's strong stance on this issue marks a notable shift in tone from the United States, which has been a key ally and supporter of Israel since its establishment in 1948. The US has historically played a significant role in Israeli-Palestinian peace negotiations, and this recent statement may have implications for future diplomatic efforts in the region.
"It has to change, and we'll be making that clear to the senior-most members of the Israeli government."
As tensions continue to simmer in the West Bank, the international community watches closely. The United Nations has passed numerous resolutions regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, yet a lasting solution remains elusive. The tragic death of Aysenur Eygi, a recent graduate of the University of Washington who was volunteering with the International Solidarity Movement, serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of this protracted conflict.
