Palestinian Journalist Odeh Hathalin Tragically Killed by Settler in the West Bank
Odeh Hathalin, a renowned Palestinian journalist and community leader, has been fatally shot by an Israeli settler in the Occupied West Bank. Hathalin, also known as Awdah Hathaleen, collaborated with directors Basel Adra and Yuval Abraham on the acclaimed documentary "No Other Land," which recently won an Academy Award for Best Documentary.
In a post on social media platform X, Yuval Abraham shared the heartbreaking news, revealing that Hathalin was shot in the chest by an Israeli settler identified by local residents as Yinon Levi. This incident occurred on Monday and is part of a troubling trend of violence involving settlers in the West Bank. Notably, Levi is among a group of settlers who have faced sanctions from the UK and EU, while the previous U.S. administration under Donald Trump had lifted certain restrictions earlier this year.
Abraham’s post included a video showing Levi brandishing a firearm and firing recklessly, although it remains unclear if this footage is directly related to Hathalin’s tragic death. The documentary "No Other Land" sheds light on the ongoing cycle of destruction and harassment faced by Bedouin communities in the Palestinian territories, particularly in areas affected by illegal Israeli settlements.
Hathalin’s murder occurred near Hebron and highlights a worrying escalation of violence from settlers throughout the West Bank in recent months. The incident has drawn widespread international condemnation. France’s Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs expressed its profound sorrow over Hathalin’s death, calling it a "murder" and condemning the increasing violence perpetrated by extremist settlers against Palestinians. The statement further emphasized that such acts amount to terrorism and demanded that Israeli authorities hold perpetrators accountable and ensure the protection of Palestinian civilians.
Israeli police have confirmed the arrest of an Israeli citizen in connection with the incident, as investigations continue into this tragic event. The killing of Odeh Hathalin is not just a loss for his community but a grim reminder of the ongoing conflict and the urgent need for accountability and peace in the region.
