Two Palestinians Killed in West Bank Clash Over Stolen Sheep

Two Palestinian teenagers were killed and another was seriously injured on September 2nd in the village of Al-Murayr, northeast of Ramallah, during clashes with Israeli forces. The deceased were identified as 19-year-old Omar Muhammad Naasan and 16-year-old Khalil Abu Alia, according to the Palestinian Ministry of Health, which stated they were shot by soldiers.

The Israeli military (IDF) reported that its soldiers were providing security for police officers from the Judea and Samaria district and an Israeli citizen who had entered the village to recover stolen animals. The IDF stated that riots erupted during the operation, with villagers throwing stones and concrete blocks at the soldiers. The military claims it opened fire on several rioters who were identified as the main instigators and posed a threat. The IDF added that the circumstances leading up to the incident and the actions of the forces on site are under investigation.

The Palestinian side presented a different account. Amin Abu Alia, head of the Al-Murayr council, told the WAFA news agency that Israeli settlers, accompanied by soldiers, entered the village, attacked two homes, and took sheep belonging to local residents. He alleged that Israeli soldiers took up positions on buildings and opened fire when residents attempted to prevent the animals from being taken.