Israeli forces fatally shot a Palestinian man at a West Bank checkpoint on Friday. The Israeli military reports the man assaulted a soldier and attempted to seize his weapon before being shot by another soldier. The incident occurred near Ramallah city. The Palestinian Health Ministry identified the deceased as 29-year-old Mahdi Biadsa. His remains are currently under Israeli military control. The military stated they are investigating whether the incident was a criminal act or connected to the ongoing surge in violence. The Palestinian man reportedly arrived at the checkpoint in a stolen vehicle and attacked the soldier who was examining his documents. The soldier sustained minor injuries. This year, at least 118 Palestinians have been killed in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, with approximately half identified as members of militant groups. However, casualties have also included youths involved in stone-throwing and individuals not directly participating in the violence. Palestinian attacks targeting Israelis in these areas have resulted in 21 fatalities this year. Israel gained control of the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and Gaza during the 1967 Six-Day War. These territories are central to the Palestinians' aspirations for an independent state.
