Belgian Foreign Minister Denounces Jenin Incident
Belgium's Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot has issued a strong condemnation of Israeli soldiers' actions in Jenin, West Bank, after video footage circulated showing two Palestinians being fatally shot. The incident, which occurred on Thursday, November 27, 2025, has sparked international outrage and calls for accountability.
Minister Prévot expressed his shock at the video, describing it as 'images showing Israeli soldiers cold-bloodedly shooting two surrendering civilians.' He underscored that such killings defy international law and demanded a thorough investigation and accountability for those responsible.
Details of the Jenin Shooting
The incident in the northern West Bank city of Jenin involved Israeli security forces during an operation to apprehend individuals. Footage, broadcast by Palestinian and Egyptian TV channels and widely shared, depicts two men emerging from a garage-like structure with their hands raised. They appeared to lift their shirts, seemingly to demonstrate they were unarmed, and then knelt on the ground.
Reports indicate that after appearing to surrender, the men were directed back inside the structure before being shot at close range. The Palestinian Ministry of Health identified the victims as Muntaser Billah Abdallah, 26, and Yousef Asaasah, 37 or 39. The Palestinian Islamic Jihad later claimed both men as fighters.
Calls for Accountability and Investigation
In his statement on November 28, 2025, Minister Prévot emphasized, 'This violence must stop,' adding to growing diplomatic pressure on Israel. Human rights organizations have labeled the killings as 'extrajudicial executions,' a sentiment echoed by the Palestinian Authority, which condemned the incident as a 'cold-blooded execution' and 'an outright extrajudicial killing in blatant violation of international humanitarian law.'
In response to the circulating footage and international condemnation, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and Israel Police issued a joint statement. They acknowledged an operation in Jenin to apprehend 'wanted individuals' accused of 'terror activities, including hurling explosives and firing at security forces.' Israeli authorities confirmed that a formal probe into the killings has been opened, and three Border Police officers have been summoned for questioning.
Broader Context of West Bank Operations
The fatal shooting occurred amidst a larger Israeli military operation in the northern West Bank. This operation has seen numerous detentions and increased tensions in the region. The incident has intensified calls from the international community for adherence to international law and protection of civilian lives in the occupied territories.
5 Comments
ZmeeLove
Disgusting actions by the soldiers. They must be held accountable.
Coccinella
While the apparent execution of surrendering individuals is an egregious violation of international law, the article also notes the victims were claimed by Palestinian Islamic Jihad. This raises questions about their status and the volatile nature of the conflict zone.
Muchacho
Absolutely horrific. This is a clear war crime.
ZmeeLove
Belgium always sides against Israel. What about Hamas?
Mariposa
Never trust partial footage from that region. It's always manipulated.