Palestinian Child Killed in Israeli Raid as Settlers Rampage in West Bank
A Palestinian child was fatally shot during an Israeli military raid in the occupied West Bank, while armed settlers launched violent attacks on nearby villages, escalating tensions in the region. The incident has drawn international condemnation amid an already volatile situation.
Israeli Raid Claims Life of 10-Year-Old Boy
Israeli forces raided the village of Al-Mughayyir, northeast of Ramallah, early Thursday, leading to the death of 10-year-old Amr Hamdan. Witnesses reported heavy gunfire as troops conducted searches, with the child struck by live fire outside his home.
The Israeli military stated that forces responded to “hostile fire,” but Palestinian authorities and human rights groups dispute this, claiming no armed clashes preceded the shooting. A neighbor, speaking anonymously, said, “Soldiers fired indiscriminately—Amr was just playing when he was hit.”
Settlers Attack Villages, Burn Homes and Farms
Concurrently, armed Israeli settlers rampaged through Al-Mughayyir and surrounding areas, torching at least 15 homes and olive groves—critical to local livelihoods. Villagers accused soldiers of failing to intervene.
Mayor Amin Abu Alyah called it a “coordinated attack,” saying settlers used guns and Molotov cocktails. Settler violence has surged since October 7, with over 1,000 incidents reported this year, yet accountability remains rare.
Global Condemnation and Calls for Justice
The UN demanded an “immediate investigation,” while the EU condemned the violence as “illegal under international law.” Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas labeled it a “war crime,” urging ICC action. The U.S. expressed “deep concern” but avoided direct condemnation of Israel.
West Bank on the Brink of Wider Conflict
Since the Gaza war began, over 500 Palestinians, including 100+ children, have been killed in the West Bank. While Israel claims raids target militants, critics argue they fuel retaliation. “Every raid breeds more resistance,” a Ramallah activist said.
With no ceasefire in sight, analysts warn of potential full-scale conflict in the region. Meanwhile, Amr’s family prepares to bury their son—another victim of the ongoing crisis.
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