A tragic incident in the Israeli-occupied West Bank has resulted in the death of 26-year-old American activist Aysenur Eygi. Eygi was killed during an anti-settlement protest near Nablus, according to US and Palestinian officials. This event has sparked international concern and calls for an investigation.
American Activist Killed During West Bank Protest
Incident Overview:
- Victim: Aysenur Eygi, a 26-year-old American and Turkish citizen, was shot and killed during a demonstration against Israeli settlements near Nablus on September 5, 2024.
- Circumstances: Eygi was participating in a weekly protest against Israeli settlements when the Israeli military opened fire on the crowd.
Details of the Protest and Eygi’s Death
Protest Context:
- Location: The protest took place near the Palestinian village of Beita, adjacent to the Israeli settler outpost of Evyatar.
- Protesters: Eygi was part of the International Solidarity Movement (ISM), an activist group advocating for Palestinian rights, similar to Rachel Corrie, who was killed in Gaza in 2003.
Eyewitness Accounts:
- Incident Description: According to Dr. Hisham Dweikat, a local resident, the Israeli military began by firing tear gas at the crowd. As protesters were dispersing, live ammunition was used. Eygi was reportedly hit in the head while crouched behind a dumpster.
- Video Evidence: Activist Vivi Chen shared video footage showing paramedics struggling to assist Eygi. The footage reveals a severe injury to her forehead, raising concerns about the intentionality of the shooting.
Responses from Authorities and Officials
Statements from Authorities:
- Israeli Military: The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) admitted to firing at demonstrators but claimed it was in response to a “main instigator” who allegedly posed a threat. They stated they are investigating reports of Eygi’s death.
- US Reaction: US Ambassador to Israel Jack Lew confirmed Eygi’s identity and stated the embassy is gathering more information. Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed condolences and indicated that the US would seek further details but did not announce any policy changes.
International Reactions:
- Turkish Response: Turkey’s Foreign Ministry condemned the killing, highlighting Eygi’s dual citizenship and demanding justice for her death.
- Local Reactions: Nablus Governor Ghassan Daghlas decried the incident, stressing that the bullets do not discriminate between different nationalities.
Broader Context and Implications
Recent Escalations:
- Military Operations: The incident occurred shortly after a significant Israeli military operation in the West Bank aimed at disrupting what Israel claims is Iranian-backed terrorism. The operation, including raids and airstrikes, has intensified clashes in the region.
- Fatalities in the West Bank: The recent conflict has seen a rise in casualties, with nearly 700 Palestinians reported dead since October 2023. This escalation follows the October 7 attack by Hamas on southern Israel.
Historical Context:
- Settlements and Protests: The settlement of Evyatar, which was legalised earlier this year, has been a flashpoint for protests. Israeli settlements are widely considered illegal under international law, contributing to ongoing tensions in the region.
Conclusion
The death of Aysenur Eygi during a protest in the West Bank is a somber reminder of the volatile situation in the region. As investigations proceed, the incident underscores the broader conflict and the urgent need for clarity and justice.
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