Israeli Military Deems Death of American Activist in West Bank “Unintentional,” Sparking International Outcry

On Tuesday, the Israeli military stated that the death of Aysenur Ezgi Eygi, a 26-year-old American activist in the West Bank, was likely the result of an “indirect and unintentional” shooting by its soldiers.

Eygi, who also held Turkish citizenship, was involved in a protest against Israeli settlements when she was struck by a bullet in the head. This incident has sparked significant controversy and condemnation from various quarters, including U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Eygi’s family.

The Israeli military has initiated a criminal investigation into the circumstances surrounding Eygi’s death. According to their findings, Eygi was hit by fire aimed at a different target, which they claim was not intended to strike her.

The Israeli authorities have expressed deep regret over the incident. However, this explanation has been strongly contested by Eygi’s family and the International Solidarity Movement, the activist group she was volunteering with, who assert that the shot was deliberately aimed at Eygi.

Blinken, speaking from a news conference in London, strongly criticized the Israeli military’s handling of the situation, stating that no one should be killed for participating in a protest.

He emphasized the need for fundamental changes in the way Israeli security forces operate in the West Bank. Eygi’s family in the U.S. has expressed their deep offense at the suggestion that the shooting was accidental, arguing that it was the result of deliberate action.

The shooting occurred amid escalating violence in the West Bank, with increased Israeli raids and attacks by both Israeli settlers and Palestinian militants. The situation has been marked by heavier military crackdowns on Palestinian protests.

Human rights groups have frequently criticized the lack of accountability for such incidents, noting that even in high-profile cases, prosecutions and punishments for soldiers are rare and often lenient.

Eygi’s death has also drawn international attention due to the history of American citizens being killed in the West Bank. Previous cases, such as the killing of Palestinian-American journalist Shireen Abu Akleh in 2022, have similarly highlighted issues of accountability and impunity.

Despite investigations, there has often been a pattern of minimal consequences for those responsible. The broader context of these incidents reflects ongoing concerns about military practices and human rights violations in the region.