Israeli Forces Kill Two Men in Jenin After ‘Surrender Procedure’; Palestinian Authority Calls It “War Crime”

According to officials, both men were residents of Jenin, a city repeatedly targeted in Israeli military raids since 2023.

IDF Says Men Were “Wanted” for Terror Activities

In a joint statement, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and Israel Police claimed the men were members of a “terrorist organization operating in Jenin,” accusing them of carrying out shooting attacks and throwing explosive devices at security forces.

The IDF said troops and border police had surrounded a building for several hours, using engineering vehicles during the standoff.
“After they exited the building, gunfire was carried out at the wanted individuals,” the statement read — though it did not clarify why shots were fired when the men appeared to surrender.

Social Media Video Sparks Controversy

Video filmed by nearby residents shows the two men emerging from a doorway with their hands raised, walking slowly toward Israeli soldiers. Moments later, they are seen lying on the ground before multiple rounds of gunfire ring out. At least one body is visible afterward.

The footage has intensified accusations of extrajudicial killing — charges that Israeli authorities say will be examined.
“The incident is under investigation by field commanders and will be transferred for further review,” the IDF said.

Israeli Minister Praises Troops: “Terrorists Must Die”

Despite the promised investigation, Israel’s far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir openly praised the shooting.
“I fully back the Border Police fighters and IDF soldiers… terrorists must die!” he wrote on social media, drawing condemnation from Palestinian leaders and human rights groups.

Part of Wider Military Sweep in the West Bank

The killings occurred during a large-scale Israeli operation in the West Bank, in which Israeli forces searched more than 220 locations and detained several individuals. Israel says the raids aim to dismantle militant networks rooted in Jenin and its refugee camp — areas that have seen some of the fiercest clashes in recent years.

Growing Concerns Over Escalation

The deaths come amid rising fears of further instability as violence steadily spreads across the occupied territories. Rights groups warn that the expanding scope of Israel’s military operations — coupled with inflammatory political rhetoric — risks pushing the West Bank into a new phase of prolonged conflict.

With investigations underway and international scrutiny building, both sides brace for more political fallout.