The killing of a 17-year-old U.S. citizen in the West Bank has prompted an investigation by the U.S. State Department. Tawfiq Abdel Jabbar, who had recently relocated from Louisiana to the West Bank to connect with his heritage and join his family, was fatally shot last week.
According to Israeli authorities, both an off-duty police officer and an Israeli civilian fired shots in the incident, with IDF troops also present at the scene. The U.S. State Department has called for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the killing.
Tawfiq's father, Hafeez Abdel Jabbar, spoke about his son's positive experience living in the West Bank. The family moved to the region in May 2023 to spend a couple of years immersing themselves in the culture and heritage of their roots. Tawfiq thoroughly enjoyed his time there, embracing outdoor activities such as cooking out, spending time with friends, and exploring the beautiful scenery of the small village they resided in.
The tragic incident occurred when Tawfiq and a 16-year-old American cousin were driving to a barbecue after Friday prayers. There were no reports of unrest along their route before multiple gunshots pierced their car seemingly out of nowhere. Hafeez, who has been diligently gathering evidence to support his son's case, stressed that Tawfiq was not involved in any conflicts and was simply a victim of violence, asserting that his son was shot ten times from behind as he was driving away from the scene.
Hafeez has been reaching out to various authorities and officials, including the consulate, senators, and Secretary Blinken, advocating for justice and answers. He has shared videos and evidence showcasing the distance between their car and the claimed location of the alleged rock-throwing incident. Hafeez vehemently denies these accusations and insists that his son posed no threat to anyone. In his efforts to bring attention to his son's case, he has called for action to prevent these senseless killings of children.
The U.S. State Department's call for an investigation reflects the seriousness with which they are treating this matter. The authorities involved in the case will need to conduct a thorough review of all available evidence to determine the facts surrounding Tawfiq's tragic death. The circumstances leading up to the shooting must be examined to provide answers to Hafeez and his family, who are mourning the loss of their beloved son.
