Democrats demand probe into Israel’s killing of Aysenur Eygi
- Rep. Pramila Jayapal and Sen. Patty Murray are calling for an independent investigation into the killing of Aysenur Ezgi Eygi by Israeli forces.
- They criticized the reliance on Israel's flawed investigation and highlighted a pattern of impunity regarding the deaths of Americans in the occupied West Bank.
- The lawmakers' actions reflect growing pressure on the Biden administration to take accountability measures and protect American citizens.
Rep. Pramila Jayapal and Sen. Patty Murray have urged the Biden administration to initiate an independent investigation into the killing of American activist Aysenur Ezgi Eygi by Israeli forces. They criticized the reliance on Israel's own investigation, which they deemed flawed, and highlighted a troubling pattern of impunity regarding the deaths of American citizens in the occupied West Bank. Eygi's family has also called for a thorough probe, expressing frustration over the lack of communication from U.S. officials following her death. In their letter to President Biden and Secretary of State Antony Blinken, the lawmakers emphasized the need for a transparent and credible investigation, citing other recent killings of Americans by Israeli forces, including journalist Shireen Abu Akleh. They expressed concern that without accountability for Eygi's death, the cycle of violence against American citizens may continue. The lawmakers requested a response from the administration within two weeks regarding the investigation. Despite the calls for action, U.S. officials have largely deflected questions about Eygi's killing and have not indicated any plans to hold Israel accountable. Instead, they have reiterated Israel's characterization of the incident as accidental. This approach mirrors the administration's response to previous incidents involving American casualties, raising questions about the U.S. commitment to justice. Sen. Chris Van Hollen and Sen. Bernie Sanders have also voiced their concerns, criticizing the Biden administration for its inaction and calling for a reevaluation of U.S. military support to Israel. They argue that the U.S. must leverage its influence to ensure accountability for the deaths of American citizens in the region.