Press Releases
3 September 2021 |Reference 82/2021
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Al Mezan Center for Human Rights is alarmed by Israel’s continued use of excessive force on Palestinian protesters counter to international law, with field reports showing that the Israeli occupation forces killed one demonstrator and injured 14 others at the perimeter fence on Thursday. Three children are among the wounded.
Following calls from Palestinian activists to resume demonstrations against Israel’s unlawful closure and blockade of Gaza, at around 8pm on Thursday, 2 September 2021, hundreds of people gathered along the perimeter fence in the east of the Gaza Strip. Some people set tires ablaze and threw fireworks.
The Israeli occupation troops stationed at the fence fired live ammunition and tear gas canisters at the protesters, fatally shooting Ahmed Mustafa Saleh, 27, in the abdomen, and injuring fourteen others, including three children. One of the children is in serious condition according to Gaza’s Ministry of Health.
Al Mezan strongly condemns Israel’s use of excessive and disproportionate force against protesters who do not pose an imminent threat. Israel must abide by international guidelines and standards on the use of force within law enforcement.
With protests continuing, the international community must urgently intervene to protect civilians in the occupied Palestinian territory who are demonstrating against the pervasive and routine violation of their rights, and must pressure Israel to immediately lift its unlawful closure of Gaza. The individuals suspected of committing the most serious crimes of concern must be investigated and prosecuted to ensure full accountability for the unlawful conduct of the Israeli military.
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