American Activist Killed in West Bank: U.S. and Israeli Forces Investigating
An American woman, Aysenur Eygi, was tragically killed on Friday during a protest in the occupied West Bank, according to reports from both the U.S. State Department and witnesses at the scene. Eygi, a 26-year-old volunteer with the International Solidarity Movement (ISM), an organization that supports Palestinian rights, was fatally shot while attending a protest against Jewish settlement expansion in the town of Beita, near Nablus.
Witnesses Point to Israeli Forces
Eygi, who was born in Turkey, was reportedly shot in the head by Israeli forces as they opened fire, according to two witnesses. Eygi had been standing at a distance of about 200 yards from Israeli soldiers when she was struck, according to Jonathan Pollak, a fellow ISM volunteer. Pollak noted that the shooting took place approximately 30 minutes after the protest had dispersed and that no clashes were taking place at the time.
Another witness, a volunteer identified only as Mariam, confirmed that Eygi had been standing in an olive grove when the soldiers, who had taken over a rooftop in the town, opened fire. Despite being rushed to Rafidia Hospital in Nablus, doctors were unable to save her, and she died on the operating table.
Israeli Military and U.S. Reaction
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) issued a statement acknowledging the incident and noted that they were “looking into reports” that a foreign national had been killed. The IDF claimed that their forces had responded with fire toward a protester who had been throwing rocks and posed a threat to the soldiers.
The U.S. State Department, in a statement from spokesperson Matthew Miller, confirmed Eygi’s death and expressed condolences to her family. Miller emphasized that the safety of American citizens is a top priority and that the department is urgently gathering more information regarding the circumstances of her death. The White House also expressed deep concern and called for a thorough investigation by Israeli authorities.
Rising Tensions in the West Bank
Eygi’s death comes amid heightened tensions and increasing violence in the West Bank. In recent weeks, Israeli settlers have been accused of escalating attacks on Palestinian villages, leading to growing anger from Western allies, including the United States. The U.S. has recently imposed sanctions on individuals connected to the violence, and Friday’s incident further underscores the volatile situation in the region.
Palestinians and human rights organizations have frequently accused Israeli forces of failing to prevent attacks by settlers and, in some cases, actively participating in violence. The death of Eygi, a foreign activist, adds to the already charged atmosphere, raising questions about the safety of civilians and international volunteers in conflict zones.
Investigation and Global Reaction
Eygi’s death is expected to spark further international scrutiny of Israeli military actions in the West Bank. Rights groups and pro-Palestinian organizations will likely intensify calls for accountability and transparency. Meanwhile, the Israeli government has promised to investigate and take swift action if wrongdoing is found.
This incident highlights the growing risks faced by civilians and activists in the occupied West Bank and underscores the importance of diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions in the region. As investigations continue, the global community awaits further details about the circumstances surrounding Eygi’s tragic death.