The B’Tselem Human Rights organization is challenging IDF backing for Binyamin Brigade Commander Colonel Yisrael Shomer, who shot and killed an Arab attacker who hurled a very large rock at his vehicle. The colonel reportedly acted in accordance with protocol, firing in the air to distance his attackers, but when this did not deter them he fired, killing one of them.
While the IDF has come out openly in support of the senior officer, Prime Minister Netanyahu and Defense Minister Ya’alon have been conspicuously quiet. The PA (Palestinian Authority) has vowed to take the case to the International Court of Justice in The Hague.
Now B’Tselem has become involved, releasing video footage which it explains presents a different story. The video was taken by a gas station surveillance camera, showing the attacker heading to the colonel’s jeep, hurling a large stone and fleeing.
The colonel was questioned by military police after the gas station video was released.
B’Tselem insists that once the child began running the situation was no longer life threatening and therefore the colonel did not have a right to use deadly force. It is pointed out the actions of the colonel after he began running after the attacker were not captured on video.
IBA reports the video contradicts at least a portion of the colonel’s statements and it is likely that he will be interviewed again.
(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)
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One Response
“CHILD”?!?! The guy was a few months short of 18. There are pictures of him posing with automatic weapons in terrorist garb. B’Tselem are a bunch of filthy terrorist lovers and should all be thrown in prison for their constant lies, misinformation, and conspiring with the enemy! The world would be a much better place without them.