US Condemns Israeli Army's Use of Palestinian as Human Shield
On Monday, the US State Department reacted strongly to a video showing an injured Palestinian, Mujahid Raed Abadi, tied to the front of an Israeli military vehicle during a raid in Jenin, West Bank. The department's spokesperson, Matthew Miller, described the footage as 'shocking' and the practice as 'completely unacceptable.'
The incident took place on Saturday, during an Israeli military operation in Jenin. Video clips circulated on social media showed Abadi, who had been shot in the hand and leg, tied to the hood of a military vehicle. The Israeli army admitted that its soldiers violated military protocol by using Abadi as a human shield.
Investigation and Response
The Israeli army issued a statement acknowledging the violation and promising an investigation. 'The behavior of the forces in the video clip of the incident does not comply with the values of the Israeli army,' the statement read. The army added that the soldiers were under fire and returned fire, wounding Abadi and subsequently arresting him.
Abadi, who is currently suffering from bone fragmentation in his right shoulder and right foot, as well as abrasions on his back, recounted severe mistreatment by the soldiers. He stated that he was beaten and tortured, especially in his injured areas, and was left tied to the vehicle in high temperatures, leading to burns on his back.
The situation in the West Bank has been increasingly tense, with the Israeli army intensifying night raids and attacks by Jewish settlers on Palestinian villages. The Ministry of Health reported that the number of Palestinians killed in these operations has risen to over 530.
- During a Foreign Ministry press conference, a reporter questioned whether the incident represented the use of Palestinians as human shields. Matthew Miller responded affirmatively, stressing that such practices are unacceptable and calling for a swift investigation and accountability.
- The Israeli army's statement emphasized that the actions of the soldiers involved did not align with the orders they received and that the matter would be addressed appropriately. This incident adds to the growing concerns over the treatment of Palestinians in the occupied territories.
- Abadi was later handed over to the Palestinian Red Crescent for treatment at Ibn Sina Hospital in Jenin. Doctors confirmed his severe injuries and indicated a long recovery period ahead. The incident has drawn international condemnation and highlights the ongoing violence in the West Bank.
