Hunger Strike and Protests Ignite in Response to Killing of Palestinian Activist in West Bank
In a poignant display of solidarity and defiance, sixty Palestinian women in the occupied West Bank have embarked on a hunger strike. They demand the return of the body of Awdah Hathaleen, a Palestinian activist whose life was tragically cut short by a settler’s gunfire during the last week. Hathaleen was known for his contributions to the Oscar-winning film "No Other Land," which poignantly chronicles the Palestinian experience, a narrative now echoing through the streets amid calls for justice.
The incident surrounding Hathaleen’s death has ignited deep-seated anger and frustration among Palestinians. While the Israeli settler responsible for the shooting has been released from house arrest, the aftermath continues to weigh heavily on the community. Eight residents from Hathaleen’s village remain in detention, further intensifying calls for accountability and justice.
In a show of international solidarity, dozens of Israeli and international activists gathered in West Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, marching in protest of the circumstances surrounding Hathaleen’s death. Demonstrators not only called for the return of Hathaleen’s body but also demanded the release of those detained during recent Israeli military operations. The tension escalated during the march, leading to the arrest of four individuals who were advocating for Palestinian rights.
Fathi Nimer, a Palestine Policy Fellow at the think-tank Al-Shabaka, provided critical insight into the situation. He highlighted the systemic violence experienced by Palestinians at the hands of Israeli settlers, noting how many have been arrested for merely defending their homes. In stark contrast, he emphasized that the settlers often face little to no consequences for their actions, further underscoring the imbalance and perceived injustice in the region.
As the hunger strike continues and protests unfold, the calling card of Awdah Hathaleen resonates through the community—an urgent plea for justice amid an enduring struggle for human rights in the occupied territories. The events have sparked discussions not only about the violence faced by Palestinians but also the broader implications of the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict, highlighting a need for renewed dialogue and understanding.
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Video “Hunger strike and protests over Israeli settler killing of Palestinian activist in West Bank” was uploaded on 08/04/2025 to Youtube Channel Al Jazeera English