Rights groups raise alarm over sharp increase in Israeli killings of children in West Bank

Rights groups have raised the alarm over the number of Palestinian children being killed by Israeli forces in the occupied West Bank, as well as the impact frequent violent raids and incursions have on minors.

At least 50 Palestinian children have been killed by Israeli forces since the start of the year, the Wafa news agency reported on Sunday, citing local rights groups.

The rights group state that the rise in Palestinian children being killed coincides with a surge in Israeli raids across the West Bank, particularly in refugee camps.

According to Wafa, the attacks on villages often include Israeli forces opening fire randomly, which targets children, as well as obstructing medical teams from reaching wounded civilians.

Reports state one of the most recent cases of Israeli violence targeting minors includes the killing of 15-year-old Jadallah Jihad Jadallah, during an Israeli incursion on the al-Fa’a refugee camp, located south of Tubas on 16 November.

Since Israel launched its war on Gaza in October 2023, there has been a sharp uptick in Israeli raids and attacks on civilians in the West Bank.

During the raids, key infrastructure is often destroyed, while Israeli forces prevent, or open fire at anyone who attempts to help victims.

On 25 October, Israeli forces shot at 15-year-old Ahmad Daraghmeh multiple times during an incursion in Tubas. His family told local media that the teenager fell to the ground, and was severely wounded, however Israeli soldiers continued firing at him.

Reports at the time stated Daraghmeh sustained five bullet wounds as well as shrapnel injuries following the attack. Four of his limbs were extensively damaged, forcing him to be wheelchair bound and miss out on his education.

Earlier this year, international charity Save the Children said almost half of all Palestinian children killed by Israeli forces or settlers in the occupied West Bank since records started were killed in just the past two years.

The data highlights a sharp increase in violence which effects children significantly, forcing them to live in a state of fear.

At least 224 children were killed by Israeli forces or settlers since January 2023.

"The situation in the West Bank is not an active conflict, it’s an occupation. The use of force is governed by international human rights law. Israeli forces should be operating like a police force, not like an army, but they’re using military tactics and weapons designed for war like airstrikes to kill and maim children," Ahmad Alhendawi, Middle East Regional Director at Save the Children, said.