Two Palestinian Women, Unborn Child Killed by Israeli Forces in West Bank Raid
On February 9, 2025, Israeli army fire killed two Palestinian women, including a pregnant woman, during a military raid in Nur Shams refugee camp, West Bank. Witnesses allege the army shot at fleeing civilians, while the Israeli military cites operational objectives. Medical access was restricted, contributing to casualties amidst escalating violence since October 2023.
hassan benyoub 
February 9, 2025 – Two Palestinian women, including an eight-month pregnant woman, were killed by Israeli army fire in the northern West Bank on Sunday, according to the Palestinian Health Ministry. The incidents occurred during an Israeli military raid on the Nur Shams refugee camp, east of Tulkarem city.
Details of the Fatalities
- Soundus Jamal Mohammad Shalabi: The 23-year-old pregnant woman was killed, and her husband was seriously injured when Israeli forces opened fire on their family. The unborn child also died in the attack. Witnesses reported that the family was attempting to leave the camp when they were shot.
- Rahaf Fouad Abdoullah Al-Ashqar: The 21-year-old woman was also shot dead by Israeli forces in the same camp.
Conflicting Accounts
While witnesses claim Israeli forces opened fire on the family as they were displaced from the camp, the Israeli military stated the operation targeted what it called "disruptive activities" in the camp. The army has not yet commented directly on the deaths, but stated it is investigating the allegations.
Intensified Military Operations
The incursion into Nur Shams camp is part of a broader military campaign by Israeli forces in the occupied West Bank. The Israeli army raided the camp early Sunday, forcing several families out of their homes and converting them into military outposts. According to Al Jazeera Arabic, there were also reports of intense gunfire and large explosions in the area.
Restrictions on Medical Access
The Palestine Red Crescent Society stated that Israeli forces obstructed their medical teams from entering the camp, despite reports of injuries among the residents. The Palestinian Ministry of Health reported that medical personnel were unable to save the fetus of the 23-year-old woman due to restrictions imposed by the Israeli military, which prevented the injured couple from being transported to a medical facility.
Escalation of Violence
The Israeli escalation follows a broader Israeli military offensive that began on Jan. 21 in Jenin and its refugee camp, as well as surrounding towns, killing at least 25 people, according to the Palestinian Health Ministry. Since the war began on Oct. 7, 2023, Israeli forces and settlers have killed at least 906 Palestinians across the occupied West Bank, according to the Health Ministry.
