The Independent Commission for Human Rights (ICHR) is following with deep concern and sorrow the shooting incident carried out by members of the Palestinian security services, which occurred on 15/2/2026 at approximately 5:00 PM in Tubas Governorate. The incident resulted in the killing of the child Ali Samer Samara (15 years old), the critical head injury of the child Ronza Samer Samara (4 years old), whose death was announced at dawn today, and the injury of the citizen Yazan Samer Samara by shrapnel in the shoulder. In addition, the citizen Samer Samara was arrested, amid information indicating that he sustained multiple injuries, as reported by his family.
According to the initial information received by the ICHR from the family, the incident occurred after masked members belonging to the Palestinian security services opened direct fire on their vehicle.
The ICHR confirms that it is following the case with both the Civil Prosecution and the Military Prosecution, which, according to the information available to the ICHR, have initiated criminal investigation procedures into the incident. A doctor delegated by the ICHR will also participate in the autopsy procedures to ensure transparency and uncover the truth.
Arrangements are also being made to visit the detained citizen to check on his health condition.
While extending its deepest condolences to the victims’ families and expressing its solidarity with the injured, the ICHR stresses the need for strict adherence to the provisions of the law and the relevant national and international standards governing the use of force and law enforcement. This includes the Palestinian Basic Law, the Code of Conduct for Law Enforcement Officials, and the United Nations Basic Principles on the Use of Force and Firearms.
The ICHR also warns against the use of face coverings by regular security forces while carrying out their duties in a high-risk environment, as this raises concern and confusion and reveals prior intent to violate the law. It calls for an immediate halt to this practice.
The ICHR demands the swift completion of an independent and transparent criminal investigation, the prompt announcement of its results to the public, and the assurance of accountability for all those found to be involved in any violation of the law, as well as the protection of victims’ rights and the provision of redress in accordance with the law.
