IDF to probe Palestinian's death during anti-fence rally

VIDEO - Military Advocate General Avi Mandelblit on Monday ordered an investigation into the April 2009 death of 30-year-old Bassem Abu-Rahma from the Palestinian village of Bilin in the West Bank, according to a letter sent by the Military Prosecution to the attorney representing the victim's family and human rights group B'Tselem. Abu-Rahma was killed when he was hit in the chest by a tear gas canister fired by security forces during a rally against the West Bank security barrier. Video of Abu-Rahma hit by gas grenade (Courtesy of Reuters, B'Tselem) A video documenting the events shows protestors, including Abu-Rahma, approaching the security barrier. A short while later the Palestinian can be seen on the ground after being struck by the canister. Abu-Rahma was evacuated to a Ramallah hospital in serious condition, where he died of his wounds. The army said at the time that the demonstrators, Palestinians and left-wing activists, threw stones at security forces and tried to damage the barrier. Initially the military prosecution decided it would not investigate Abu-Rahma's death, despite the testimonies and video footage. "We have approached military officials for their comments on the alleged incident. After examining the materials we received, we came to believe there was no basis found to the claim a tear gas grenade was aimed and fired directly at Abu Rahmeh," the army said at the time. "The inquiry shows that there are two possible explanations for the injury: A. The injured man was standing on an elevated spot, and intersected the firing line of the grenade or B. The ammunition fired hit the upper wires of the fence, which changed its trajectory." The family's attorney, Michael Sfard, said the decision shows that internal Israeli investigations could not be trusted. Right groups B'Tselem and Yesh Din said they were pleased with the decision to investigate, but said the delay was unjustified. "Only the insistence of the petitioners, who provided the IDF with a professional opinion stating there is no doubt that Abu-Rahma sustained a direct hit, brought about the decision to investigate. "We hope the military advocate general's decision will give justice to Abu-Rahmah's family and the village of Bilin," the said in a statement. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook

IDF to probe Palestinian's death during anti-fence rally

(Video) Military advocate general changes his mind, orders investigation into April 2009 death of Bassem Abu-Rahma in Bilin