Israeli Soldier Shoots Palestinian Convert to Judaism in Hebron

On March 19, 2024, an Israeli soldier fatally shot David Ben-Avraham, formerly known as Sameh Zeitoun, a Palestinian convert to Judaism, in a West Bank settlement. Born in Hebron, Ben-Avraham had converted to Judaism in 2020, a rare and complex process in the region. He faced significant social challenges, being viewed with suspicion by both communities.

The incident occurred when Ben-Avraham had an altercation with the soldier, who then shot him. A small knife, reportedly given to Ben-Avraham for self-defense, was found in his bag. The Israeli military is investigating the shooting, and initial reports describe it as a tragic misunderstanding influenced by racial profiling.

Ben-Avraham’s family wished for a Muslim burial, whereas his Israeli friends sought a Jewish funeral. An Israeli court eventually ruled in favor of a Jewish burial, acknowledging his conversion. Ben-Avraham was buried on the foothills of Mount Gerizim in April, without his estranged family’s attendance.