Human rights organizations call for war crime probe into Israel's killing of Lebanese journalist

Israel has charged a Jewish settler, Yinon Levi, with reckless manslaughter for the death of Owdeh Hathaleen, a prominent Palestinian activist. This is the first indictment of its kind in over seven years, despite a rise in settler violence in the West Bank.

Hathaleen, featured in the 2025 Oscar-winning documentary "No Other Land," was shot dead during a confrontation in the Palestinian village of Umm al-Khair in July 2025. The settlers, including Levi, had been operating a large excavator, leading to a confrontation with local residents. Footage showed Levi drawing a weapon and firing at Hathaleen, who filmed the moment he was killed.

The charges against Levi also included armed trespassing and malicious property damage. Israel's State Attorney's office filed the indictment, marking a significant exception in recent years. The decision comes amid a surge in settler violence since the October 7, 2023 Hamas attacks on Israel, which prompted a military response in Gaza and further escalation of violence in the West Bank.

Israeli rights groups, B Tselem and Yesh Din, have criticized the lack of accountability for settlers and soldiers who harm Palestinians. Hathaleen's death is not an isolated incident; during the same period, Israeli soldiers and settlers have killed at least 1,100 Palestinians, including at least 240 children, according to United Nations data.

The indictment highlights the impunity that often shields Israelis from consequences for their actions. The source states that this case is a critical moment, signaling a potential shift in the balance of power and accountability in the region.