ILLINOIS — A family with ties to the Chicago area is seeking answers after a 17-year-old Palestinian American boy was fatally shot during an Israeli military raid in the West Bank, according to a CBS Chicago report.
The teen, identified by family as Mahmoud Abdallah of Lisle, Illinois, was shot and killed on Monday during an Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) operation in the town of Husan, just west of Bethlehem. His family members in Illinois told reporters they are devastated and demanding clarity from both U.S. and Israeli officials about the circumstances of his death.
Teen’s Life Cut Short in West Bank
According to the boy’s relatives, Mahmoud had traveled to the West Bank to visit extended family and attend school. They described him as a bright, kind-hearted teenager who was deeply loved by his community in Lisle, a suburb located about 30 miles west of Chicago.
Israeli authorities confirmed that a 17-year-old was killed during what they described as an anti-terror raid involving clashes with individuals who allegedly threw explosives and stones at troops. The IDF claimed it responded with live fire.
However, Mahmoud’s family disputes that characterization, maintaining that he was not involved in any violence and was shot unjustly. They say he was simply in the wrong place at the wrong time and believe his killing was a tragic act of excessive force.
Family’s Plea for Accountability
“He was just a kid,” a family spokesperson told CBS. “He loved school, his friends, and had plans to return to the U.S. for college. Now we’re planning his funeral.”
The family is urging U.S. officials to launch an independent investigation into the incident and are calling on the State Department to hold the Israeli military accountable.
As of Tuesday, the U.S. State Department said it was aware of the reports and in contact with the family but had not yet confirmed any formal investigation.
Community Mourning in Chicago Suburb
In Lisle, local community members are expressing grief and solidarity with the family. Friends of the Abdallahs gathered for a small vigil Monday night, lighting candles and sharing prayers.
“This hits close to home,” said one neighbor. “This family is part of our town. We’re heartbroken.”
Faith leaders and civil rights groups in the greater Chicago area have also spoken out, demanding greater transparency and justice. The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) released a statement urging the Biden administration to intervene and protect the rights of all U.S. citizens abroad.
A Tense Time in the Region
Mahmoud’s death comes amid growing tensions and violence in the West Bank. Over the past several months, clashes between Israeli forces and Palestinian residents have intensified, with reports of rising civilian casualties.
Human rights organizations have raised alarms about the escalating toll on minors and noncombatants, warning that the situation is becoming increasingly volatile and dangerous for families living or visiting the area.
Have loved ones with ties to international conflict zones like Gaza or the West Bank? Share your perspective or experience with us at ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com — your story matters, and we want to hear from the community.
