Israeli soldiers killed Palestinian boys in the West Bank area. This may have been a war crime. Here are the key points:
- 15-year-old Basil and 8-year-old Adam were shot dead by Israeli troops
- It happened on a street in the city of Jenin in the West Bank
- Videos show the boys did not appear to be an immediate threat
- Human rights experts say using lethal force may have broken international laws
What Happened in Jenin?
On November 29th last year, Basil (age 15) and Adam (age 8) were on a street in Jenin with friends. Video footage shows a convoy of Israeli military vehicles driving by.
One video catches the door of an armored vehicle opening. The soldier had a clear view of the boys, who were just 24-36 meters (79-118 feet) away.
Suddenly, gunshots are heard. Basil is seen getting shot in the chest and falling backward. Little Adam is also hit in the back of his head while trying to run away.
Two bullets in the chest struck medical reports, according to Basil. Adam had one bullet hit him in the back of the head. At least 11 shots in total were fired from the military vehicle.
Were the Boys a Threat?
According to the Israeli army, the boys were trying to throw explosives at the soldiers. This put the troops in danger, allowing the use of force.
However, the videos do not show the boys carrying or throwing any explosives. One photo from the army seems to show a small pipe bomb near Basil. However, this evidence cannot be fully verified.
Most importantly, 8-year-old Adam had no weapon when he was shot in the back while running away. He would not have posed a severe threat.
Possible War Crime Committed
International law experts reviewed the evidence. Dr. Lorraine Hilliard says the soldiers were safe inside their armored vehicle. Even if threatened, they should have driven off instead of using lethal force immediately.
Using disproportionate, indiscriminate, deadly force like this violates the laws of armed conflict. So, the killing of the boys, especially young Adam, may constitute a war crime.
The UN’s Ben Emmerson agreed the shooting of Adam appears to meet the definition of a war crime. While Basil’s case raises questions, executing a fleeing 8-year-old is an unjustified act of lethal force.
Ongoing Violence in West Bank
These killings occurred amidst surging violence in the occupied West Bank territories. The Israeli military maintains a presence there despite Palestinian Authority rule.
The army has significantly increased operations since a new conflict began last October between Israel and Hamas militants in Gaza. But the killings of civilians like Basil and Adam have sparked international outrage.
Do such incidents qualify as war crimes under international law? The debate continues as the violence sadly shows no sign of ending soon.
