US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has demanded “fundamental changes” in how Israeli forces operate in the West Bank following the death of American activist Aysenur Ezgi Eygi.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stated it is “highly likely” that Eygi was unintentionally struck by IDF fire during a protest last week.
The IDF claimed the shot was aimed at the “key instigator” of a riot at Beita Junction, where Palestinians allegedly burned tires and threw rocks.
However, the International Solidarity Movement (ISM), with which Eygi was volunteering, said the protest was peaceful.
At a press conference in London, Blinken called Eygi’s killing “unprovoked and unjustified” and criticized Israel’s rules of engagement in the West Bank.
He emphasized that no one should risk their life for attending a protest and called for changes to prevent further incidents, noting this is the second American citizen killed by Israeli forces. Blinken also highlighted ongoing concerns about Israeli forces’ response to settler violence and excessive force against Palestinians.
