Palestinian Boy, 14, Among Two Killed in Settler Attack Near West Bank School
Two Palestinians, including a 14-year-old schoolboy, were killed in an attack by Israeli settlers near a school in the occupied West Bank on April 21, 2026, according to Palestinian health officials and eyewitness accounts. The victims were identified as Aws al-Naasan, 14, and Jihad Abu Naim, 32, a parent at the school. The attack occurred in the village of al-Mughayyir, northeast of Ramallah, when settlers opened fire near the school, first targeting students and then those who came to aid.
Attack Unfolds Near School Premises
According to local officials and witnesses, the incident began when settlers entered the village and opened fire near the school. Video footage reviewed by multiple news outlets shows a settler in military fatigues advancing toward the school and firing multiple rounds. Witnesses reported that settlers shot at students in the schoolyard before turning fire on adults who rushed to assist the injured.
Following the shooting, Israeli soldiers arrived at the scene. The Israeli military stated that the incident began after rocks were thrown at a vehicle carrying Israeli passengers, including a reserve soldier, who then exited and opened fire. The military confirmed an investigation was launched and that the reservist involved was suspended from duty pending a military police inquiry.
Victims Identified by Health Ministry
The Palestinian Health Ministry confirmed the identities of those killed: Aws al-Naasan, a ninth-grade student, and Jihad Abu Naim, 32, a parent at the school. Three others were wounded in the attack, including one man with an exposed, bloodied torso seen being carried away in video footage. Local residents said the village of al-Mughayyir has been subjected to near-daily settler attacks, with prior incidents involving intimidation tactics such as placing razor wire to block children’s access to school.
Broader Pattern of Attacks on Education
The attack is part of a recent surge in violence targeting Palestinian schools and schoolchildren in the West Bank. In recent days, separate incidents have included the demolition of a school building and settlers erecting barriers to prevent young children from reaching their classrooms. Educators and parents have described a growing climate of fear, with families keeping children home from school due to safety concerns.
International observers and human rights groups have condemned the violence, calling for accountability and protection of civilians under international law. The United Nations and other bodies have repeatedly warned that attacks on educational institutions may constitute violations of humanitarian law.
Aftermath and Community Response
Funeral prayers for Aws al-Naasan were held in al-Mughayyir, with family and community members mourning his death. Photos from the funeral showed dozens gathering to pay respects. The school remained closed in the days following the attack, as authorities assessed security conditions and provided psychosocial support to traumatized students.
Local council leaders urged international intervention to protect Palestinian civilians from settler violence, noting that such attacks have intensified amid broader regional tensions. They called for investigations that hold perpetrators accountable and ensure access to education is safeguarded for all children in the West Bank.