Did soldiers fire at Palestinians?
Photo: AP
Did troops fire at Palestinian farmers?
Two soldiers to be questioned by IDF after Palestinian farmers, leftist activists fired at
Military Police investigators will be questioning two IDF soldiers in the coming days on suspicion the troops fired at a group of Palestinian farmers and left-wing kibbutz volunteers several days ago.
The two soldiers will stay on base with their unit until the investigation begins and before a decision is made on extending their detention.
The unusual incident took place at the end of March, after a group of Israelis arrived at an olive grove in the West Bank in order to assist Palestinian farmers. At the same time, a group of Israelis at the nearby Elon Moreh settlement attempted to prevent the Palestinians from working their lands. Some of the Israelis were apparently armed.
During the confrontation between the sides, several shots rang out, but no injuries were reported. Police investigators launched a probe into the affair and after examining bullet casings at the scene were led to the two soldiers. The troops were on vacation at the time of the incident and apparently joined a group of settlers who clashed with the Palestinians.
'Too early to draw conclusions'
Police officials relayed the report to the Military Police. Should the probe show the soldiers indeed fire the shots, they may face trial on charges of illegal use of weapons.
"Considering the circumstances, we're talking about a severe offence," a military source told Ynet. "Any use of weapons not in the framework of military activity is forbidden, and certainly when it comes to a demonstration."
"It's too early to draw conclusions, the matter will be investigated and then we'll decide how to proceed," the officer said.
