US urges Israel to review rules of engagement after death of American citizen

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin held a telephone conversation with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, urging the Israeli army to review its rules of engagement in the West Bank following the death of an American citizen, Aisha Nur Ezgi.

The call comes after Ezgi, who also held Turkish citizenship, died from a head wound sustained during a protest dispersed by Israeli forces on September 6, Caliber.Az reports, citing Israeli media.

Austin expressed "serious concern about the responsibility of the Israeli army for the unjustified death of an American citizen" during the talks, emphasizing the need for accountability and careful review of military operations in the region.

Meanwhile, Israel has been conducting military exercises simulating ground combat operations in Lebanon, focusing its attention on the northern front, where tensions with Hezbollah persist. The exercises, held in northern Israel, are part of the country's broader strategy to address security concerns.

Israeli Defense Minister Gallant, speaking after the exercises, highlighted the army’s ongoing preparations for a potential ground operation in Lebanon.

“We are shifting the centre of gravity to the north while we complete missions in the south. The important task remains in the north: to restore security and allow residents to return to their homes,” Gallant stated, adding that all branches of the Israeli military are finalizing preparations for any future escalation in the region.