The Israeli Military Police have launched an investigation into the conduct of three soldiers from a special operations unit following the fatal shooting of two Palestinians in Jenin. The investigation centers around allegations of unlawful use of force.
According to initial reports, the two Palestinians who were killed were unarmed and emerging from a building with the intention of surrendering. It is alleged that a commander had instructed them to re-enter the building to retrieve their weapons. However, a soldier, reportedly unaware of this instruction, opened fire after perceiving a threatening movement from one of the Palestinians.
Further complicating the matter, reports indicate that the unit involved in the shooting did not immediately report the sequence of events to their superiors. This delay and the operational conduct of the unit have reportedly drawn criticism.
The incident has sparked controversy within the Israeli government.
National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has publicly condemned the investigation, arguing that soldiers should not be subjected to scrutiny for using lethal force against individuals he described as terrorists. During a visit to an Israeli army unit in the West Bank, Ben-Gvir urged an end to such investigations and called for a revision of the rules of engagement.
Ben-Gvir also advocated for changes to the legal policies governing field incidents involving armed Palestinians. His remarks highlight the ongoing debate within Israel regarding the appropriate use of force in the context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
The investigation is ongoing, and further details are expected to emerge as investigators gather evidence and interview witnesses.
