JERUSALEM (JTA) — An Israeli soldier was arrested for allegedly beating a Palestinian.
The soldier was arrested Tuesday in connection with the incident, which took place during a nighttime raid in the West Bank village of Bil’in. A media gag order was placed on the soldier and the investigation.
Bil’in is the site of weekly demonstrations against the security fence that have turned violent in the past.
The arrest followed a complaint lodged on behalf of village councilman Muhammad Khatib by the Yesh Din human rights organization.
The soldier is accused of beating and threatening Khatib, saying that if the protest did not stop, Khatib "would end up like Bassem."
Bassem abu Rahma died after being hit by a gas grenade fired from a tear gas canister by an Israeli soldier during an April protest rally in the village.
Help ensure Jewish news remains accessible to all. Your donation to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency powers the trusted journalism that has connected Jewish communities worldwide for more than 100 years. With your help, JTA can continue to deliver vital news and insights. Donate today.
