IDF Soldier Films Firing at Palestinian Amid West Bank Clashes

An Israeli soldier was filmed on Saturday firing at a Palestinian in the lower body during clashes between settlers and Palestinians near Jenin in the northern West Bank. Palestinian reports indicate the injured man's condition is moderate. The IDF stated that the incident is being investigated by commanders and its findings will be transferred for review by authorized bodies.

The incident began with reports of friction between settlers and Palestinians near the "Zait Ba'Gilboa" farm, involving a gathering of Palestinians around a shepherd. According to reports from the scene, stones were thrown at the shepherd, leading to shots fired into the air and the shot that hit the Palestinian, who was evacuated by the Red Crescent. An initial IDF review found the shepherd was initially on grazing land and strayed from it after the stone-throwing. The brigade commander is investigating.

Separately, the High Court of Justice issued a conditional order earlier this week demanding the state and IDF explain why a Palestinian family cannot return to their home in the village of Qusra, near Nablus. The judges sharply criticized the authorities' inaction against settler riots, questioning why soldiers were seen playing soccer with rioters and why vehicles were not confiscated. This decision followed a petition by residents of the village of Jalud against the commander of the West Bank, the Civil Administration, the Israel Police, and Defense Minister Israel Katz.

The court emphasized that the IDF bears ultimate responsibility as the sovereign in the area, responsible for Palestinian security. It also noted that the phenomenon contradicts Israel's basic moral values and principles as a Jewish and democratic state, and the principles of freedom, honesty, and justice. The High Court ordered the state, IDF, and police to coordinate the return of the petitioners to their homes within two weeks and ensure their security. The court also issued an order demanding the respondents explain why they are not acting to return the petitioners and remove roadblocks. The state must submit a response affidavit and updates on enforcement and investigation actions by October 8. For weeks, Jewish rioters have blockaded homes in Qusra, and last week a 19-year-old was arrested on suspicion of involvement in the latest incident, where dozens of masked individuals on white pickup trucks were documented storming the village. Palestinians reported several injuries when settlers took over a structure from which they threw stones.