Israeli forces, settlers killed 235 children in West Bank since 7 Oct 2023, report says

Israeli military operations and settler violence in the West Bank have resulted in the deaths of 235 Palestinian children and teenagers since October 7, 2023, according to a report by the Israeli human rights group B’Tselem. The figure includes infants and minors killed during military raids, clashes, and settler attacks. The Palestinian Authority’s Colonisation and Wall Resistance Commission reported an even higher toll of 250 child fatalities in the same period.

The surge in fatalities marks a sharp increase from previous years. Between 2005 and 2021, B’Tselem documented an average of about one Palestinian child killed per month by Israeli forces. Since October 7, that average has risen to roughly seven children per month. In 2023 alone, B’Tselem recorded 54 child deaths, with the youngest victim being just two years old. Most were between 14 and 17 years old.

The report highlights cases of indiscriminate Israeli military fire that have resulted in child casualties. One documented case involved seven-month-old Sam Abu Haikal, who was shot in the face by Israeli troops in Hebron in June 2023. His mother, Dania Abu Haikal, 28, was also wounded when soldiers opened fire on their car. She suffered facial injuries, leaving a visible scar. She has questioned why Israeli forces would target an unarmed infant.

Settler violence has also contributed to the death toll. B’Tselem reports that five of the 235 child fatalities were killed by Israeli settlers. The rise in child deaths coincides with the escalation of violence following the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attack on Israel and the subsequent Israeli military campaign in Gaza.

Human rights organizations have repeatedly criticized Israel’s military conduct in the West Bank, including the use of live ammunition in populated areas. The United Nations and other international bodies have also raised concerns about the protection of Palestinian civilians, particularly children, in the occupied territory.

The Israeli military has stated that it operates under strict rules of engagement and investigates incidents involving civilian harm. However, critics argue that these investigations often lack transparency and accountability.

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