Jenin: Far-right Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has granted a promotion to an officer whose undercover Border Police unit was involved in the killing of two unarmed Palestinians in the occupied West Bank city of Jenin, as reported by local media on Sunday.
According to Anadolu Agency, Ben-Gvir informed the commander of the unit, known only as 'K,' that he would be promoted to deputy commissioner. This decision followed the release of a video showing members of the unit firing on two Palestinians who had raised their hands in surrender. The minister, leader of the Jewish Power Party, personally visited the unit's base to convey the news of the promotion.
The promotion has been described as 'unusual' by Haaretz, given that unit commanders in the police typically hold lower ranks. Meanwhile, three officers from the unit remain under investigation on suspicion of unlawful killing and shooting of the two Palestinians during an operation in Jenin. Investigators have shown the officers footage depicting the two individuals leaving a house with their hands raised before being overpowered and subsequently shot at close range by one officer.
The officers have defended their actions by claiming they felt threatened due to the Palestinians making 'suspicious movements.' Despite the ongoing investigation, Ben-Gvir has publicly shown his support for the unit, posting videos of himself embracing the commander.
The incident occurs amid intensified Israeli military actions in the West Bank, which have escalated since the outbreak of the Gaza conflict in October 2023. Reports indicate that over 1,085 Palestinians have been killed, with an additional 10,700 injured and more than 20,500 arrested in the occupied territory due to military and settler activities.
In a significant development, the International Court of Justice declared last July that Israel's occupation of Palestinian territory is illegal, calling for the removal of all settlements in the West Bank and East Jerusalem.