Gaza, West Bank, Sept 12 (Alliance News): Aysenur Eygi, a 26-year-old Turkish-American activist, was shot and killed by Israeli forces in the West Bank on Friday while participating in a protest near Nablus.
Eygi, who was volunteering with the International Solidarity Movement (ISM), was involved in a weekly demonstration against an Israeli settlement near the Palestinian village of Beita.
Eyewitnesses reported that Eygi was struck in the head by Israeli gunfire as tensions escalated during the protest.
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed firing at the demonstrators but claimed the action was in response to violent activity. The IDF stated it was investigating the incident involving a foreign national.
Eygi, a recent graduate of the University of Washington, had been actively involved in the ISM, a pro-Palestinian group known for its advocacy efforts.
Her death has drawn international attention, with US and Turkish officials calling for accountability.
University of Washington President Ana Mari Cauce expressed grief over Eygi’s death, highlighting her positive influence as a peer mentor.
The protest in Beita, which is adjacent to the recently legalized Israeli outpost Evyatar, was part of ongoing resistance against Israeli settlements considered illegal under international law.
The Palestinian Ministry of Health reported that Eygi arrived at Rafidia Governmental Hospital with severe gunshot wounds and was pronounced dead despite medical efforts.
Eyewitnesses described the scene, noting that Eygi was near a dumpster when Israeli forces began firing.
The IDF’s response has been met with criticism from various international and activist groups.
