The United Nations described the killings of two Palestinian men in Jenin during a raid in the occupied West Bank as a potential summary execution, noting they appeared unarmed and surrendering when shot. The UN human rights office spokesperson emphasized the gravity of the incident after footage aired on Palestine TV showing the men exiting a building before being shot at close range.
Israeli authorities released a joint military-police statement saying they have opened an investigation into the shooting, and that the two men were wanted and linked to a terror network in the Jenin area. The statement did not provide details about charges or evidence of the alleged affiliation.
The UN response drew a sharp rebuttal from human rights observers and contrasted with comments from Israel’s security leadership. Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, who oversees the Border Police in the occupied West Bank, issued a statement backing the forces and saying, “terrorists should die.” The UN spokesperson condemned such rhetoric as abhorrent while urging accountability and a thorough, transparent inquiry.
The incident comes amid ongoing, intensified operations in the West Bank and raises renewed calls from rights groups for independent investigations into use of force. As the investigation unfolds, international attention remains focused on civilian harm and the standards applied to security operations in occupied territories, underscoring the fragile and volatile environment surrounding Jenin and the broader region.
Cover image source: Israeli Forces Kill Two Palestinians in West Bank After They Appear to Surrender, Video Shows 🔗
