Israeli soldiers faced criticism after strapping an injured Palestinian man to the bonnet of their jeep during a raid in Jenin. The incident, captured on video, has sparked outrage for the use of a human shield, prompting an investigation by the Israeli military.
Israeli Soldiers Strap Injured Palestinian to Jeep During Raid
On June 22, 2024, Israeli soldiers strapped an injured Palestinian man, Mujahed Azmi, to the bonnet of their jeep during a raid in the West Bank city of Jenin. A video showing this incident circulated on social media, drawing widespread condemnation for using a human shield. The Israeli military confirmed the incident, stating that the action violated their protocols and would be investigated.
During the raid, Israeli forces apprehended Azmi after he was injured in an exchange of fire. Despite his injuries, soldiers strapped him to the vehicle. The military acknowledged that their conduct did not align with their values.
Azmi’s family reported that they had requested an ambulance for him, but instead, he was strapped to the jeep and driven off. He was later transferred to the Red Crescent for treatment. On the same day, a 12-year-old Palestinian boy died from wounds sustained in clashes in El Bireh city. Additionally, two Palestinian men were fatally shot in Qalqilyah city by Israeli forces, who accused them of militancy.
This incident occurred amidst escalating violence in the West Bank since the start of the Gaza war on October 7, 2023. Israeli forces have killed at least 480 Palestinians in the West Bank, according to the UN. Concurrently, Israeli bombardments on Gaza have resulted in over 37,400 Palestinian deaths and significant displacement of its 2.3 million residents.
Israeli officials reported airstrikes targeting Hamas military sites in Gaza City, with recent bombings killing at least 39 Palestinians. Amidst the ongoing conflict, tens of thousands of Israelis demonstrated in Tel Aviv, calling for new elections and the return of hostages held by Hamas.
