Israeli forces kill a Palestinian infant in the occupied West Bank, say health officials

June 6, 2026 - 10:58

HEBRON, West Bank -- Palestinian health officials reported that Israeli troops shot and killed a seven-month-old infant on Wednesday after opening fire on his parents' vehicle in the occupied West Bank. The baby, identified as Ayoub Jamal al-Atrash, was struck by gunfire near the city of Hebron. The Palestinian Health Ministry stated that the child died from his wounds shortly after arriving at a local hospital.

According to witnesses, the family was driving along a road when Israeli forces fired at the car. The parents were also injured in the attack, though their conditions were not immediately disclosed. The Israeli military said it was reviewing the incident, claiming that troops had opened fire on a vehicle that "suspiciously approached" a military position. No further details were provided.

The killing has drawn widespread condemnation from Palestinian officials and human rights groups, who describe it as another example of excessive force by Israeli forces in the occupied territories. The West Bank has seen a surge in violence over the past year, with regular military raids and clashes between Israeli forces and Palestinian militants. According to the United Nations, 2023 was one of the deadliest years for Palestinians in the West Bank in nearly two decades. The death of the infant has reignited calls for accountability and an end to what critics call a pattern of impunity for Israeli forces.