Aysenur Ezgi Eygi, a 26-year-old Turkish-American activist, was tragically shot and killed on September 6, 2024, during a protest against Israeli settlements in the village of Beita, located near Nablus in the occupied West Bank. Eygi was involved with the International Solidarity Movement (ISM), which aims to support Palestinian rights and resist Israeli occupation.
Eygi's family expressed deep sorrow over her death, demanding the U.S. government to initiate an independent investigation. They asserted, "A US citizen, Aysenur was peacefully standing for justice when she was killed," emphasizing the belief it was unlawful and unnecessary. Her family characterized her as "a fiercely passionate human rights activist," taken from them too soon and too violently.
Eygi's death was confirmed by authorities, with Nablus Governor Ghassan Daghlas stating she was shot by what appeared to be a sniper bullet to the head, as revealed by autopsy results from Al Najah University. Witnesses claimed Eygi was shot after moving toward an olive grove where she could no longer pose any threat to the Israeli forces.
Witness accounts highlighted the tragic nature of her death, with several activists present declaring her killing was intentional and unjustified. British rights activist Rob Sadler described the events, stating: "A sniper fired from a building – one or two shots – and they targeted and murdered Aysenur." He continued, pledging to continue advocating for Palestinian rights in her name.
Israeli military officials responded by stating troops fired on what they believed was "a main instigator of violent activity" during unrest when Eygi was shot. They confirmed at least some return of gunfire at those throwing stones during demonstrations, apportioning blame to the protestors. Eygi, along with fellow activists, was participating peacefully, according to ISM, who vehemently rejected such claims.
U.S. officials quickly weighed in on Eygi's death, with White House National Security Council spokesperson Sean Savett expressing the administration's being "deeply disturbed" by the incident, requesting Israel to investigate the circumstances surrounding her shooting. Likewise, State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller emphasized the urgent need for more information, stating they have "no higher priority than the safety and security of American citizens." Yet, skepticism lingers about the effectiveness of any investigation led by Israel.
Eygi is not the first U.S. citizen to face tragic consequences amid Israeli-Palestinian conflicts. Earlier, several instances involved American citizens allegedly killed by Israeli military or settlers. Notably, the deaths of Palestinians and human rights advocates have increased tensions within the region as evidence of unlawful force escalates. This history of violence has seen many questioning the accountability of investigative efforts undertaken by the Israeli military.
Despite outcries for reform and accountability, some advocacy groups believe the current administration under President Biden has not done enough to pressure Israel on issues of conduct and human rights violations. Eygi's death arrives at a time when Israeli forces have ramped up security operations across the West Bank, with consequences including increased violence against the civilian population.
Activists are clear this incident reflects broader concerns over the treatment of Palestinians and the expansion of illegal settlements, often met with significant violence, including during peaceful protests. Prominent organizations continue to voice their increasing unease, supportive of comprehensive investigations initiated by the U.S. government to pursue justice for Eygi and apprehend accountability for actions taken under the banner of military response.
Eygi's family’s plea for justice highlights the intersection of activism, state violence, and the safety of U.S. citizens abroad. Advocates who worked alongside her are now left mourning not just her life but reassessing the risks attached to fighting for human rights amid conflict. They affirm the dedication to continue pushing for justice and transformation within the conflict, holding both the U.S. and Israeli authorities accountable for their potential roles.
They concluded their statement demanding U.S. engagement, stating, "We call on President Biden, Vice President Harris, and Secretary of State Blinken to order an independent investigation. We seek justice for our beloved Aysenur, and we will not rest until accountability is achieved."
