Washington state Senators Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell are urging the U.S. government to launch a federal investigation into the death of Aysenur Eygi, an American citizen who was killed in the West Bank last week during a demonstration. Eygi, a recent University of Washington graduate, was fatally shot by the Israeli Defense Force (IDF) while participating in a protest. Her death has sparked outrage and calls for justice from both U.S. and Turkish officials.
Eygi, who held dual American and Turkish citizenship, was active in various human rights causes. Her participation in the West Bank demonstration is believed to have been tied to ongoing protests against Israeli military actions in the region. According to reports, she was shot by Israeli forces during a confrontation, but the exact circumstances of her death remain under dispute.
In a joint statement, Senators Murray and Cantwell emphasized the need for a thorough and transparent investigation into the death of an American citizen abroad. “The loss of Aysenur Eygi is a tragedy that demands accountability,” the senators stated. “We are calling on the federal government to conduct a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death and to ensure that all American citizens are protected, no matter where they are.”
The senators also noted that Eygi’s death underscores the growing concerns about the safety of Americans involved in demonstrations and protests in volatile regions like the West Bank. Both lawmakers have committed to pressing the Biden administration for action, including cooperation with Turkish authorities, who have already initiated their own investigation.
The government of Turkey has also launched a prosecutorial inquiry into the incident, given Eygi’s Turkish citizenship. Turkish officials have condemned the actions of the Israeli Defense Force, demanding answers and calling for international accountability. Eygi’s death has intensified tensions between Turkey and Israel, with Turkish leaders labeling the incident a violation of human rights.
In response, Israeli authorities have stated that the IDF was responding to a security threat at the time of the demonstration, though they have yet to release a detailed account of the incident. Eygi’s family, along with human rights organizations, are seeking an independent investigation to clarify the events leading up to her death.
Aysenur Eygi, who recently graduated from the University of Washington, was described by friends and family as a passionate advocate for human rights and social justice. Her involvement in international causes, particularly her support for Palestinian rights, had been a major focus of her activism. Those close to her remember her as a dedicated and caring individual, committed to fighting for the underprivileged and marginalized.
Eygi’s death has left a profound impact on her alma mater and the wider community of activists. Students and faculty at the University of Washington have held vigils in her honor, calling for justice and transparency in the investigation into her death.
As pressure mounts from U.S. lawmakers and the international community, the Biden administration has yet to officially comment on the calls for a federal investigation. The case is likely to strain U.S.-Israeli relations, as American officials balance their diplomatic ties with Israel and their responsibility to ensure the safety of American citizens abroad.
With Turkey’s investigation already underway, there is growing anticipation for how the U.S. will respond to the senators’ demands. Eygi’s family, along with human rights organizations, continues to call for an independent inquiry, hoping to shed light on the circumstances of her tragic death.
