Hebron IDF Shooting Kills 7-Month-Old Infant Sam Abu Haikal

On 6 June 2026 Israeli Defence Forces opened fire on a civilian vehicle near Hebron in the southern West Bank, killing 7‑month‑old Sam Abu Haikal and lightly injuring his parents. The Palestinian Health Ministry reported the infant was taken to a local hospital in critical condition before being declared dead.

The IDF said soldiers perceived the car as accelerating toward them and fired "some shots" at the vehicle, later stating the victims were "civilians not involved" and expressing "deep regret" for any damage caused. Hamas condemned the incident as an "atrocious" crime reflecting Israeli brutality and called for international pressure on Israel.

The incident follows previous reports of lethal force used by Israeli forces against Palestinian civilians in the occupied territories, raising concerns over rules of engagement and accountability.