Tragedy struck on Monday morning as Israeli forces reportedly shot and killed a 12-year-old boy during an incursion into the Qalandiya refugee camp in the occupied West Bank. The camp, located near the main checkpoint linking Ramallah with Jerusalem, witnessed the fatal shooting of Hatem Sami Hisham Ghaith.
According to the Palestinian Ministry of Health, the young boy sustained a gunshot wound to his abdomen, leading to severe injuries that proved fatal. The incident also resulted in injuries to several others, with the Palestinian Red Crescent (PRC) attending to eight individuals hit by live bullets and one person struck in the head with a rubber bullet.
Following the shooting, Israeli soldiers arrested at least 22 Palestinian men from the camp. Videos circulating on social media captured the aftermath, showing the detained men being escorted by Israeli troops. Additionally, footage depicted groups of teenagers engaging in acts of protest, including burning tires and hurling stones towards Israeli military vehicles.
Amid the escalating tensions, ambulances from the PRC rushed to the scene to provide medical assistance to those in need. In a video verified by sources, Israeli soldiers were seen responding to the stone-throwing by firing towards the area of unrest.
The incident has sparked outrage and calls for accountability, with the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) being approached for comment on the tragic events that unfolded at the Qalandiya refugee camp. As the situation continues to develop, concerns mount over the safety and well-being of civilians caught in the crossfire of conflict in the region.
