Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has promoted an officer whose unit killed two unarmed Palestinians in Jenin. The promotion came just one day after a video of the incident was released. The officer, identified only as “K,” was promoted to deputy commissioner. Ben-Gvir made the announcement during a visit to the unit’s base.
The video, released by Palestinian TV, shows Israeli soldiers executing two detained Palestinians during a raid in Jenin. The men were unarmed and had their hands raised when they were shot. The footage has sparked outrage, with the Palestinian Authority accusing Israel of committing a “war crime” and “brutal” field executions.
Israeli authorities have defended the officers involved in the incident. They stated the two men were linked to a terror network and were “wanted.” However, the circumstances surrounding their killing, with their hands raised, have raised serious questions about the use of force. The incident is currently under review by the Israeli military and police.
Despite the controversy, Ben-Gvir has publicly supported the officers. He praised their actions, saying they acted “exactly as expected.” The far-right minister’s stance has been widely criticized, especially as the footage shows the Palestinians posing no threat at the time of the shooting.
The killing has further strained relations between Israel and Palestine. The Israeli military continues to justify the incident, but the footage raises concerns about the actions of Israeli forces in the occupied West Bank. As the incident is reviewed, it remains a point of intense debate and condemnation.
