05.05.2026 08:51
Israeli Army Major General Avi Bluth announced that 1,500 Palestinians have been killed in the West Bank over the past three years. Bluth stated that Palestinians throwing stones are also considered 'terrorists,' and that 42 people were killed under this classification in 2025. The commander's remarks, indicating a loosening of rules of engagement, drew criticism; Palestinian data shows an increase in casualties in the region.
Statements by Major General Avi Bluth, head of the Central Command and a senior figure in the Israeli army in the West Bank, have sparked major controversy. Bluth said that 1,500 Palestinians have been killed in the last three years.
“WE HAVE RELAXED THE RULES OF ENGAGEMENT”
According to a report in Haaretz, Bluth, speaking at a closed-door meeting, made striking remarks about the intensity of operations in the West Bank. Stating that they have relaxed the rules of engagement for opening fire on Palestinians, Bluth said he has authorized soldiers to shoot at the knee or below the knee during arrests.
“THAT’S THE RULE OF THE MIDDLE EAST”
Bluth, who argued that Israel is trying to prevent potential attacks, used the phrase, “If someone comes to kill you, kill him first,” highlighting the number of Palestinians killed in recent years. He also revealed that 42 Palestinians were killed in 2025 for throwing stones.
“LAME MONUMENT” REMARK DRAWS REACTION
Bluth’s use of the phrase “lame monument” for Palestinians shot while trying to cross the Separation Barrier drew backlash. These words were interpreted as implying that Palestinians who are injured and disabled are seen as a “deterrent example.”
ADMISSION OF DIFFERENT TREATMENT FOR JEWS AND PALESTINIANS
Bluth also admitted that there is a distinction in how Jews and Palestinians are treated in cases involving stone throwers. Stating that they avoid opening fire on Israeli stone throwers, Bluth said this is due to “social consequences.”
“POTENTIAL TERRORIST” CLAIM
Speaking about Palestinians working in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, Bluth said he describes these individuals as “potential terrorists.” He also stated that more than 4,000 Palestinians are being held in administrative detention.
DATA SHARED BY PALESTINIAN SOURCES
According to Palestinian sources, at least 1,155 Palestinians have been killed in attacks in the West Bank since October 2023, around 11,750 have been injured, and nearly 22,000 have been detained.