Today, the U.S. State Department is actively seeking information regarding the tragic death of an American activist in the Israeli-occupied West Bank. The activist, identified as Ayse Nurizi Ege, a 26-year-old with dual U.S.-Turkish citizenship, lost her life during a protest near an Israeli settlement close to Nablus. Eyewitnesses reported that tear gas, stun grenades, and ultimately a live round fired by an Israeli soldier led to her untimely demise. The U.S. Ambassador to Israel has confirmed the incident, while awaiting a response from the Israel Defense Forces.
In a related development, Israel's military has recently withdrawn from the West Bank city of Jenin after a nine-day military operation that left widespread devastation. The city's infrastructure lies in ruins, with critical services such as drinking water and electricity disrupted. The United Nations has labeled this period as the deadliest in the West Bank in the past eight months.
Our team on the ground in Tel Aviv reported firsthand on the aftermath of the raids in Jenin. The damage is extensive, with residents finally able to assess and begin clearing up the destruction. The Palestinian Ministry of Health confirmed 39 fatalities, including eight children and two elderly individuals. The funeral of an 87-year-old man highlighted the senseless loss of life, with his family questioning why he, a non-threatening elderly person, was shot.
Additionally, the IDF reported the elimination of 14 militants during the operations, including a Palestinian Islamic Jihad commander. The commander emphasized the need for acknowledgment of losses on both sides, urging Israel to recognize their casualties as well.
