Fri Sep 20 13:18:58 UTC 2024: ## Israeli Soldiers Under Investigation for Pushing Dead Bodies Off Roof in West Bank
**Jenin, West Bank** – The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) is investigating an incident that occurred during a raid in the occupied West Bank on Thursday, where soldiers appear to have pushed dead bodies off a roof. Videos of the incident, which took place in the town of Qabatiya, have been circulating online and show soldiers dragging, pushing, throwing, and even kicking what appear to be three dead men off the edge of a building.
An Associated Press journalist witnessed the incident, and a witness claiming to be the uncle of one of the deceased men told Reuters that the soldiers had gone to the roof after the men were killed.
The IDF has acknowledged the incident and expressed concern, stating it is “not in line with IDF values and what is expected of IDF soldiers.” They have opened a formal investigation into the matter.
Separately, the IDF reported killing seven militants in gun battles and an airstrike in Qabatiya on Thursday.
The United States has also condemned the incident, with National Security Council spokesman John Kirby stating that if the videos are authentic, they depict “abhorrent and egregious behavior by professional soldiers.” The US government has reached out to Israeli officials and pressed them for details of the incident, demanding accountability if warranted.
Meanwhile, fighting continues in Gaza, with at least 15 people killed overnight and into the day in Israeli airstrikes. Despite the ongoing violence, US President Joe Biden continues to work towards a ceasefire agreement, stating that he “has not given up hope.”
The incident in Qabatiya has sparked international outrage, with many condemning the actions of the IDF soldiers. The investigation is expected to shed light on the circumstances surrounding the incident and determine if appropriate disciplinary measures will be taken.
First Piper 