Title: The Killing of American Activist in the West Bank Raises Concerns About US Response
Introduction:
The recent killing of American activist Aysenur Ezgi Eygi in the occupied West Bank has once again highlighted the unequal treatment of American citizens in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. This incident, along with previous killings of Palestinian Americans, raises questions about the US government’s response and its commitment to accountability. The lack of investigations into these cases suggests a de facto policy that not all Americans are equal when it comes to dying in this conflict.
Unequal Treatment of American Citizens:
The deaths of Eygi and other Palestinian Americans, such as Tawfic Abdel Jabbar and Mohammad Khdour, have received muted responses from the US government. Lara Friedman, president of the Foundation for Middle East Peace, points out that the policy of the US government seems to prioritize accountability for Israeli Americans while neglecting Palestinian Americans and those who stand with them. This discrepancy in response is concerning and undermines the principle of equal treatment for all American citizens.
Patterned Killings and Lack of Accountability:
Eygi’s death is reminiscent of the killing of American peace activist Rachel Corrie in 2003. Corrie’s death was ruled an accident by Israeli officials, despite evidence suggesting otherwise. Human rights organizations have highlighted a pattern of killings targeting activists who support Palestinian rights. The lack of accountability in these cases raises doubts about Israel’s commitment to justice and the US government’s willingness to hold them accountable.
US Government’s Response:
The US government’s response to the killing of Eygi and other American citizens in the West Bank has been inadequate. While President Joe Biden has vowed to hold those who harm Americans accountable, this commitment seems to be selective when it comes to Palestinian Americans or those sympathetic to the Palestinian cause. The lack of action and silence from US officials in these cases sends a message that not all American lives are valued equally.
Israel’s Rules of Engagement:
Khaled Elgindy, a senior fellow and director at the Middle East Institute, calls for a serious examination of Israel’s rules of engagement and their compliance with international law. However, he expresses little faith in the Biden administration’s willingness to address these concerns. Elgindy suggests that the US government has a history of rationalizing and explaining away Israeli actions, rather than holding them accountable.
Escalation of Aggression in the West Bank:
Eygi’s death comes at a time when Israeli forces have escalated their aggression in the West Bank, particularly in Jenin. The recent military operations, including the occupation of the city, have resulted in the deaths of dozens of Palestinians, including children. The targeting of unarmed Palestinian demonstrators and the use of deadly force by Israeli forces should raise alarm bells and prompt a reevaluation of US support for Israel.
Implications for US-Israel Relations:
The killing of Eygi and the unequal treatment of American citizens in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict have significant implications for US-Israel relations. The US government’s continued support for Israel, despite these human rights concerns, raises questions about its commitment to promoting peace and justice in the region. The State Department’s report acknowledging potential violations of international human rights law by Israel, but also giving them credit for investigating their own use of force, further highlights the need for a more comprehensive and unbiased approach.
Conclusion:
The killing of American activist Aysenur Ezgi Eygi in the West Bank underscores the unequal treatment of American citizens in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The lack of accountability for these deaths and the US government’s muted response raise concerns about its commitment to justice and equal treatment for all American citizens. It is crucial for the US government to address these concerns, reevaluate its support for Israel, and work towards a more balanced and just resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
