The IDF claims the international group deviated from a designated path in the West Bank.
Israeli soldiers discharged firearms in proximity to a delegation of foreign diplomats touring the Jenin refugee camp in the West Bank on Wednesday. This action caused the representatives from over 20 nations, along with accompanying journalists, to seek shelter, as evidenced by video footage from the scene.
The Palestinian Authority organized the tour, which included representatives from numerous countries, such as the United Kingdom, Canada, France, Italy, Spain, China, Japan, Mexico, and Egypt, among others. While no injuries were reported, video footage captured diplomats fleeing in panic when gunfire broke out around 2 p.m. local time.
The IDF asserted that the delegation strayed from the approved route and entered a restricted area, which they characterized as an “active combat zone.”
The incident drew swift condemnation from international leaders. France and Italy requested explanations from Israeli ambassadors. Ireland’s deputy prime minister described the event as “completely unacceptable,” and Canada called for a thorough investigation. The European Union’s foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, also deemed the firing near diplomats “unacceptable” and demanded accountability.
The Egyptian foreign ministry stated that the incident “violates all diplomatic norms,” and Türkiye’s foreign ministry issued a “strong condemnation” of the warning shots fired at its diplomats.
In January, the Israeli military initiated a significant operation in the West Bank, named ‘Iron Wall,’ taking control of Jenin and installing metal gates at the refugee camp’s entrances. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated the operation’s objective was to “eradicate terrorism” in the area, amidst Israel’s ongoing conflict with Hamas in Gaza. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant later indicated that IDF troops would remain in the area indefinitely, asserting that “the Jenin refugee camp will not be what it was.”
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