Israeli forces fatally shoot two Palestinian teenagers in occupied West Bank

Two Palestinian teenagers were killed by Israeli forces in separate incidents in Hebron and Ramallah, both located in the occupied West Bank. According to the Israeli military, 17-year-old Muhannad al-Zughair was fatally shot in the Abu Daajan area of Hebron following what authorities described as a ramming attack that injured two soldiers. Local reports from Ramallah noted that no formal investigation has confirmed the circumstances of the incident.

Witnesses reported that al-Zughair was injured, fled towards Hebron, and was later found and killed inside a vehicle. His body is being held by Israeli forces. In another incident near the village of Umm Safa, 18-year-old Muhammad Asmar was killed. Reports indicate that Asmar was detained by soldiers, then shot while on the ground and left for hours. The Israeli army claimed that he had attempted to stab soldiers near a settlement. Two Israelis were lightly wounded, according to the Magen David Adom ambulance service.

Hamas praised the Ramallah attack, calling it a heroic operation and asserting that such actions are a response to Israeli occupation and ongoing military operations. Israeli forces have continued raids across the West Bank, including in Hebron, Bethlehem, and Nablus. Settlers reportedly set fire to a tractor and attempted to torch a vehicle in Burqa village, while spray-painting graffiti on homes. International law considers Israeli settlements in the West Bank and East Jerusalem illegal, and the International Court of Justice reaffirmed that Israels presence in these territories is unlawful.

Meanwhile, in Gaza, an Israeli drone strike in central Khan Younis killed Palestinian photojournalist Mahmoud Wadi and injured journalist Muhammad Abdel Fattah Aslih. Wadis death adds to a rising toll on journalists, with more than 260 media workers killed in Gaza since October 2023, marking the deadliest conflict for reporters in history.

Since October 2023, Israeli attacks on Gaza have killed over 70,000 Palestinians and wounded more than 170,000, while Israel suffered 1,139 fatalities and around 200 captives during attacks on October 7. Despite a ceasefire that began on October 10, Israeli strikes in Gaza have killed more than 356 Palestinians.

Gazas healthcare system is facing extreme shortages, with less than half of hospitals and just over a third of clinics operational. Hospitals such as Al-Ahli, al-Shifa, Nasser, and al-Rantisi are overwhelmed, treating multiple times their capacity. Essential medicines and medical supplies are critically low. Reports indicate that approximately 1,000 healthcare workers have been killed, and at least 25 medical staff are detained by Israel without charges.

Author: Gavin Porter