Hebron, West Bank—The seven-month-old infant died on Saturday morning following a shooting by Israeli forces. Sam Fahd Abu Haikal succumbed to his wounds after being struck in the jaw while traveling with his parents.

The family vehicle was moving through the Tel Rumeida area when soldiers opened fire. The infant's mother was also hit by the same bullet that struck the child. His father, a lecturer at Bethlehem University, sustained a gunshot wound to the hand.

The military stated that soldiers perceived the vehicle to be accelerating in their direction. They claimed to have responded with single shots to neutralize a potential threat.

The parents were traveling from their home in Bethlehem to visit relatives in central Hebron. The shooting left the child in critical condition, leading to his death shortly after the encounter.

Israeli officials announced that an initial inquiry is underway regarding the conduct of the soldiers involved. The military indicated that the individuals inside the vehicle were unarmed civilians.

This incident follows a pattern of high-stakes friction in the occupied territory. Military operations have intensified steadily since October 2023, resulting in frequent confrontations between troops and residents.

Medical officials confirmed the child’s death shortly after he arrived at the hospital. The parents remain under medical care for their injuries.

The situation in Hebron remains tense following the aftermath of the shooting. Authorities have not provided further details on whether any specific disciplinary actions will follow the ongoing review.