Warning: Distressing content ahead.
As the New Year approached, 21-year-old Shatha al-Sabbagh, a journalism student with dreams of exposing the Palestinian plight, stepped out to buy chocolate for her family in Jenin, a city in the occupied West Bank. Accompanied by her mother, nephews, and a relative, Shatha’s laughter filled the air, unaware of the impending tragedy.
Moments later, chaos erupted. Gunfire filled the streets, and Shatha was struck in the head. Her mother, Umm al-Motassem, recalls the harrowing moment: “Her eyes were wide open, staring at me as blood gushed from her head. I screamed, ‘Stop shooting! My daughter is dead.'”
For ten agonizing minutes, the shooting persisted, and Shatha lay in a pool of her blood.
The family holds the Palestinian Authority (PA) responsible, citing their control over the area. However, the PA points to “outlaws” from armed groups like the Jenin Battalion, accusing them of spreading chaos and endangering civilians.
This conflict, fueled by the PA’s crackdown on armed factions in Jenin, has plunged the camp into despair. Residents face dire conditions: power cuts, food shortages, and relentless violence. “We need milk, we need bread,” laments Mohamed, a local resident. “Even going out for essentials feels like a death sentence.”
The Jenin Battalion, accused of illegal activities and alleged ties to Iran, denies these claims, asserting their role as defenders against occupation. Meanwhile, the PA, led by President Mahmoud Abbas, faces mounting criticism for its heavy-handed approach and perceived alignment with Israeli interests.
As violence escalates, Shatha’s death epitomizes the human toll of this conflict. “The PA says they’re here for our safety,” cries Umm al-Motassem. “Where’s the safety when my daughter was killed? Justice will only come when we know who took her life.”
In a region besieged by internal and external strife, the call for peace and accountability grows louder, yet the path to resolution remains fraught with challenges.
