CCTV footage released by the Israeli rights group B'Tselem shows an Israeli border police officer throwing a stun grenade into a car carrying young Palestinians during a raid on the Qalandiya refugee camp in the occupied West Bank. The incident took place on Sunday and has prompted an investigation by Israeli police.
Footage Details
The video, captured by a security camera, depicts an officer approaching a car and shouting at its occupants before a stun grenade detonates, filling the area with smoke. B'Tselem confirmed that all those inside the vehicle survived the attack. The group stated that the car contained young Palestinians, though their exact ages and conditions were not immediately disclosed.
Investigation Underway
Israeli police have opened an investigation into the incident following the release of the footage. The officer's actions have drawn criticism from human rights organizations, who argue that the use of stun grenades in such close proximity to civilians may constitute excessive force. According to B'Tselem, the raid was part of broader Israeli military operations in the area, which have intensified in recent months.
Broader Context
The Qalandiya refugee camp, located near Ramallah, has been a frequent site of clashes between Israeli forces and Palestinian residents. The incident adds to tensions in the West Bank, where violence has escalated since the start of the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza. Human rights groups have documented numerous cases of alleged misconduct by Israeli security forces during raids, including the use of live fire and stun grenades against civilians.
