Turkish-American Activist Aysenur Ezgi Eygi’s Tragic Death
Overview of the Incident
On September 6, 2024, Aysenur Ezgi Eygi, a 26-year-old Turkish-American activist, was fatally shot by an Israeli sniper during a protest against illegal Israeli settlements in Beita, near Nablus in the West Bank. Eygi’s death has led to widespread international condemnation and calls for accountability, while her body awaits repatriation to Türkiye. Eygi, who recently graduated from the University of Washington, was in the West Bank to support Palestinian resistance against Israeli settlement expansion.
Who Was Aysenur Ezgi Eygi?
Aysenur Ezgi Eygi was born in Antalya, Türkiye, in 1998 and moved to Seattle, Washington, as a child. She pursued a double major in psychology and Middle Eastern languages at the University of Washington, graduating in June 2024. During her university years, she actively volunteered for social justice causes, including the anti-Trump movement “Seattle Socialist Alternative” and various community service projects.
Eygi’s Activism and Commitment
Post-graduation, Eygi joined the International Solidarity Movement (ISM), a Palestinian-led group known for its non-violent resistance to Israeli occupation. Her activism in the West Bank was a continuation of her global human rights commitment. Eygi’s dedication to non-violent resistance echoed that of other ISM activists like Rachel Corrie and Tom Hurndall, who were also killed by Israeli forces.
Eygi’s Final Moments at the Beita Protest
Eygi was killed during a peaceful demonstration against the illegal Israeli settlement Evyatar near Beita. According to Italian activist Mariam, Eygi and other protesters were retreating after Israeli forces began dispersing the crowd with tear gas and live ammunition. Eygi was struck in the head by a sniper’s bullet while standing under an olive tree. Despite immediate efforts to get her to the hospital, she was pronounced dead at Rafidia Hospital in Nablus.
Eygi’s Role in the Palestinian Cause
In the week before her death, Eygi was actively involved in the Fazaa campaign, which provides international protection to Palestinians facing threats from settlers and the Israeli military. Her work in the West Bank reflected her commitment to supporting Palestinian farmers and resisting Israeli aggression.
International and Turkish Reactions
The response to Eygi’s killing has been immediate and widespread. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan condemned the actions of Israel, vowing to hold those responsible accountable. The Turkish Foreign Ministry is working to expedite the repatriation of Eygi’s body, possibly via air due to road closures imposed by Israeli forces. Eygi’s family and Turkish officials are calling for an independent investigation into her death.
The U.S. government has also demanded an investigation, with Ambassador Jack Lew expressing deep concern over the incident. However, there are doubts about the effectiveness of an Israeli-led inquiry, given past cases where U.S. citizens killed by Israeli forces have not seen justice.
Repatriation and Funeral Arrangements
Efforts to repatriate Eygi’s body have been hindered by political restrictions, but Turkish officials are arranging for an air transfer. A public funeral is planned in her hometown of Didim, Aydin province. Eygi’s family and supporters are calling for international pressure on Israel to end its occupation and stop targeting civilians and activists.
Legacy of Aysenur Ezgi Eygi
Eygi is remembered as a martyr for peace and a symbol of international solidarity with the Palestinian cause. Protests and vigils have been held globally, demanding justice for Eygi and an end to Israeli occupation. International rights groups and the U.N. have joined calls for a thorough investigation into her killing, emphasizing the need to protect civilians in conflict zones.
Continued Struggle and Activism
Eygi’s death highlights the ongoing risks faced by activists and the persistent struggle for Palestinian rights amidst rising tensions and settler violence in the West Bank. Her legacy continues to inspire global activism and calls for justice.
