After a very detailed forensic analysis, a third-party independent examiner, as part of a process overseen by the US Security Coordinator (USSC), was unable to reach a definitive conclusion as to the origin of the bullet that killed Palestinian-American journalist Shireen Abu Akleh. . Ballistics experts determined the bullet was badly damaged, which prevented a clear conclusion.
In addition to forensic and ballistic analysis, the USSC was granted full access to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and Palestinian Authority (PA) investigations over the past few weeks. Summarizing the two investigations, the USSC concluded that fire from IDF positions was likely responsible for Shireen Abu Akleh’s death. The USSC finds no reason to believe that this was intentional but rather the result of tragic circumstances during the IDF-led military operation against the Palestinian Islamic Jihad faction on May 11, 2022, in Jenin, which followed a series of terrorist attacks in Israel.
The United States values and continues to encourage cooperation between Israel and the PA in this important case. We will remain engaged with Israel and the PA in the next steps and press for accountability. We once again extend our deepest condolences to the Abu Akleh family.
