A shocking video has surfaced of a man in military fatigues shooting a mentally disabled Palestinian in the West Bank. The video, which was uploaded to social media, sparked outrage among those who saw it.
The incident took place near the town of Nabi Saleh, in the central part of the West Bank. The victim, identified as 22-year-old Ayman Rabi, was shot in the leg by the unknown assailant. The gunshot wound was not life-threatening, although it was serious enough for him to be hospitalized.
The video shows Rabi approaching the soldier, who was wearing a mask, and then being shot from a distance. It appears to show the soldier firing several rounds at the man with what looks to be a handgun. According to reports, the shooting was preceded by a verbal altercation between the soldier and Rabi.
The video of the incident has prompted widespread condemnation from groups and individuals alike. The Palestinian Prime Minister, Mahmoud Abbas, described the shooting as a “criminal incident” and has called on Israeli authorities to hold the perpetrator accountable. The video also prompted international calls for an investigation into the incident.
The Israeli Defense Forces have issued a statement saying that they are taking the matter “very seriously” and that an investigation is underway. The soldier in the video has not been identified and it is unclear if the shooting was intentional or accidental.
This is yet another example of the violence and abuse that is suffered by Palestinians in the occupied territories. While the perpetrator of this particular incident has yet to be identified, it highlights the need for international pressure on Israel to end its occupation of the West Bank and allow the Palestinians to live in peace and security.