Israeli prosecutors charge settler with killing Palestinian activist in rare indictment

Israeli prosecutors charged settler Yinon Levi with reckless manslaughter in the death of Palestinian activist Awdah Hathaleen in July 2025 in the West Bank.

This is the first time since Oct. 7, 2023, that an Israeli has been indicted for killing a Palestinian in the West Bank, according to B'Tselem.

Levi is also charged with armed trespassing and malicious property damage.

Hathaleen was a prominent community leader who advocated against settler violence and was involved in the Oscar-winning film 'No Other Land.'

Oct. 7, 2023: Reference point cited as the last time before this case that an Israeli was indicted for killing a Palestinian in the West Bank. · 2024: Levi was sanctioned by the U.S. and other Western countries over allegations of violence toward Palestinians. · July 2025: Awdah Hathaleen was shot and killed in Umm al-Khair, with video showing Levi firing shots. · After taking office in 2025: U.S. President Trump lifted the sanctions against Levi. · Thursday: Israeli prosecutors filed an indictment charging Levi with reckless manslaughter and other offenses. · Coming weeks: A meeting will be scheduled where prosecutors will formally read Levi the charges.

12 years maximum sentence · 1,100 Palestinians killed · 20 meters distance · July 2025 date of killing · 2024 sanctions year

Levi says he will fight the charges in court, claiming self-defense and denying wrongdoing.