SEATTLE – Aysenur Ezgi Eygi, a human rights activist who was shot and killed by Israeli soldiers in the West Bank, was mourned by hundreds of people gathered at a beach in Seattle where she celebrated her 26th birthday just a few weeks earlier. Eygi, who was also a Turkish citizen, had gone to the West Bank to protest against settlements when she was fatally shot. Witnesses stated that she posed no threat and was shot during a moment of calm.
The Israeli military claimed that Eygi was likely shot unintentionally, but American officials, including President Joe Biden, expressed outrage over her killing and called for accountability. The deaths of American citizens in the West Bank have garnered international attention, unlike the deaths of Palestinians without dual nationality, which often go unnoticed.
Eygi’s family and the Turkish government have demanded an independent investigation into her death. Turkey’s justice minister stated that they are investigating the incident and will present their findings to a U.N. court overseeing a genocide case against Israel.
Friends and supporters gathered at the beach to remember Eygi as a vibrant, dedicated individual who fought for justice. Many wore keffiyehs in solidarity with the Palestinian cause and shared stories of her kindness and passion for helping others. Eygi’s body is expected to be repatriated to Turkey for burial following completion of necessary measures.
Eygi’s friends recalled her as someone who loved bringing people together and fostering connections. Despite the tragic circumstances of her death, they emphasized continuing her legacy of unity and activism. Eygi was described as selfless and driven by a deep commitment to fighting for what she believed in.
