Israeli Warning Shots Fired Near Diplomats in Jenin Spark International Backlash

Report by Safarti Tarjuman International Desk

Tensions flared on Wednesday when Israeli troops fired warning shots close to an international diplomatic delegation visiting Jenin in the occupied West Bank, igniting global condemnation and diplomatic concern.

The group, comprised of 25 diplomats from over 30 countries—including Canada, the United Kingdom, Egypt, China, Russia, Italy, and Jordan—was on an official visit arranged by the Palestinian Authority to observe the humanitarian situation in the area. As members of the delegation addressed the media, gunfire broke out nearby, causing panic and forcing diplomats to seek shelter. Footage of the incident quickly circulated online, drawing swift international attention.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed that the diplomatic visit had been coordinated in advance. However, they claimed the delegation strayed from the agreed-upon route, which led to troops firing warning shots to redirect the group to a safer path.

The event triggered immediate reactions from around the world:

• Canada, France, Germany, Turkey, and the European Union called for a transparent and thorough investigation.
• Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney condemned the act, labeling it “unacceptable,” and confirmed that four Canadian diplomats were present during the incident.
• A spokesperson for UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized the need to uphold the protection and immunity of diplomatic personnel.
• Egypt denounced the shooting as a breach of all diplomatic conventions and international law.
• The Palestinian Foreign Ministry accused Israeli forces of deliberately endangering foreign envoys.

In response to the mounting criticism, the IDF expressed regret for the distress caused and committed to conducting an internal review. Officials assured that the findings would be shared with the respective diplomatic missions involved.

The incident has deepened concerns about the safety of international representatives in conflict zones and intensified scrutiny of Israeli military operations in occupied Palestinian territories.