Israeli forces reportedly opened fire near a convoy of foreign diplomats visiting the Jenin refugee camp in the occupied West Bank, prompting widespread condemnation and demands for explanation from the European Union and Arab nations. The incident, which took place on May 21, 2025, has significantly heightened tensions amid ongoing violence in the region.
The delegation, which included officials from the EU, Ireland, Spain, and several Arab states, was on a humanitarian fact-finding mission when Israeli soldiers fired what are being described as warning shots. Video footage shows diplomats ducking and seeking shelter as shots rang out, with some vehicles quickly reversing to exit the area.
No injuries were reported, but the symbolic and diplomatic impact was immediate.
The European Union issued a strongly worded statement, calling the act “completely unacceptable.” EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said, “Firing on diplomats in a clearly marked convoy during a humanitarian mission is a grave violation of international norms and must be investigated urgently.” He added that the EU has demanded a full explanation from Israeli authorities.
Irish Foreign Minister Micheál Martin also condemned the incident, revealing that Irish diplomats were part of the convoy. “Our people were placed in danger while on a peaceful and lawful visit. This cannot be tolerated,” he stated, adding that the Irish government had summoned the Israeli ambassador for urgent clarification.
Israel’s military said the troops had acted according to protocol, citing concerns about uncoordinated movement in an area considered a “combat zone” due to recent clashes with Palestinian militants. “The IDF was not notified in advance of any diplomatic visit to the area, which has seen intense armed conflict in recent days,” the army said.
That claim was challenged by several diplomats who said their visit had been coordinated with relevant authorities. Spanish officials stated that the trip had been organized in partnership with international agencies and followed standard protocol.
The visit to Jenin was intended to assess the humanitarian conditions following a series of deadly Israeli raids on the refugee camp. Palestinian health officials report that dozens have been killed in recent operations, and local infrastructure has been severely damaged.
Palestinian officials accused Israel of deliberately attempting to intimidate or obstruct international observers. “This was not an accident—it was a message,” said Palestinian Authority spokesperson Nabil Abu Rudeineh.
The Jenin refugee camp has long been a flashpoint in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Israeli forces claim it is a hub for armed resistance and militant activity, while Palestinians and humanitarian groups argue that the area suffers from disproportionate military aggression.
The incident comes amid a broader uptick in violence across the West Bank and Gaza, following months of airstrikes, raids, and rocket fire. Human rights organizations have warned that the situation is rapidly deteriorating, with civilians increasingly caught in the crossfire.
As calls grow for an independent investigation, diplomatic fallout appears inevitable. The EU is reportedly considering whether to delay certain joint projects with Israel, while Arab League members have called for an emergency meeting to address the issue.
For now, the Israeli government maintains that it acted out of precaution, while the international community continues to seek answers—and accountability.
Source: CNN
