Introduction
A 26-year-old American woman has been tragically killed in the occupied West Bank during a protest against Jewish settlement expansion. Aysenur Ezgi Eygi, who was also a Turkish citizen, was shot by Israeli troops in the town of Beita near Nablus.
The Incident
Ms. Ezgi Eygi was participating in a protest against the expansion of Jewish settlements in the area. According to local media reports, she was shot by Israeli soldiers while protesting. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) claim that they responded with fire towards an instigator of violence who hurled rocks at the forces.
Reactions to the Killing
The US State Department has confirmed Ms. Ezgi Eygi's identity and expressed condolences to her family and loved ones. The US ambassador to Israel, Jack Lew, has also offered his condolences and stated that the safety and security of American citizens is a top priority for the United States.
The Turkish foreign ministry has described Ms. Ezgi Eygi's death as "murder" and condemned the actions of the Israeli occupation soldiers.
The Context
This incident comes amidst a tense situation in the occupied West Bank. Recently, Israeli forces withdrew from Jenin city and its refugee camp after a major nine-day operation. The operation resulted in the deaths of at least 36 Palestinians, including children.
The expansion of Jewish settlements in the West Bank is a highly contentious issue, with many countries, including the United States, considering them illegal under international law. Israel, however, rejects this view.
Conclusion
The killing of Aysenur Ezgi Eygi is a tragic reminder of the ongoing conflict in the occupied West Bank. It highlights the risks faced by activists and civilians in the region and raises questions about the use of force by Israeli forces.
