Israeli Security Coordinator Indicted for Shooting Palestinian Woman

Jerusalem District Prosecutor's Office has filed an indictment against Pinhas Shem Tov Ran, a 37-year-old resident of Itamar and security coordinator for the Gideonim Ridge area in Samaria. Ran is charged with aggravated assault and obstruction of justice, with prosecutors seeking his detention until the end of proceedings. The indictment follows a joint investigation by the Judea and Samaria District's Central Unit and the Shin Bet security agency. A gag order on the case was lifted with the indictment's filing.

According to the indictment, Ran, who is responsible for the security of settlements and outposts in his sector and carries an assault rifle, was previously warned by military officials about exceeding his authority and deviating from procedures. On September 18, Ran allegedly drove his all-terrain vehicle into the Palestinian village of Akraba, outside his jurisdiction, accompanied by a career soldier. They stopped and questioned passersby without authorization. When a Palestinian couple in a Mazda did not stop upon Ran's order, he allegedly fired at least three shots at their vehicle, hitting the car and wounding the woman. She sustained serious injuries to her chest and was hospitalized for several days.

Following the incident, Ran and the soldier reportedly returned to the scene to search for shell casings to impede the investigation. Ran also allegedly denied any knowledge of the shooting when questioned by security forces. The incident was reported on September 18, with authorities stating an 18-year-old woman was hit by gunfire and suffered multiple penetrating wounds. Both Ran and the soldier were arrested on October 11.

Ran, represented by attorney Nati Rom of the Honenu organization, presents a different account. He claims the vehicle approached them aggressively, appearing to attempt a ramming, forcing them to jump aside. He states he fired into the air to stop the vehicle, which then fled into the village. Honenu describes Ran as an "outstanding security coordinator, a bereaved brother, with over 600 reserve duty days," highlighting his extensive military service, including combat in Gaza and Lebanon since the war began. Support letters from senior commanders have been submitted to the court. His brother was killed on October 7, and his father is known for establishing West Bank outposts. Security coordinators from the Samaria Regional Council protested his arrest, and his wife wrote to the Defense Minister regarding his detention conditions.