The New Normal: Targeted Killings and Their Implications

The Shadow of Targeted Killings

Jenin, Nov 30, 2025

For Israeli secret service and special units, the option of summary execution of suspected terrorists has always loomed large. Targeted killings, once under the auspices of Mossad and Shin Bet, have increasingly been sanctioned for the IDF. This shift in policy raises critical questions about morality and legality (Bergman 2019). The killing of prominent Palestinian Al Jazeera journalist Shireen Abu Akleh in 2022 by the Duvdevan unit drew international condemnation and prompted an investigation by the International Criminal Court. Yet, astonishingly, there were no consequences for the perpetrators.

If someone is labeled a Palestinian terrorist, that individual can be disposed of without hesitation. Over the past decade, the term ‘terrorist’ has been indiscriminately applied to Palestinian non-violent activists, BDS supporters, and even children. The execution of lightly armed Palestinian teens during the 2015/16 Children’s Intifada was not only tolerated but, alarmingly, encouraged by Israeli politicians. They incited armed vigilantes to take matters into their own hands.

A Dangerous Justification

After October 7th, the justification for executions expanded. Palestinian humanitarian workers, journalists, and their families became targets. In fact, any Palestinian living in Gaza now faces the threat of execution. The IDF's actions can be witnessed anywhere, whether in Gaza or the West Bank, with full impunity and no repercussions. This raises a haunting question: has the genocide of Gaza and military occupation in the West Bank morphed into a new reality of daily executions? Is this truly the new normal?

The Impact of Violence on Society

The implications of such violence extend far beyond the immediate loss of life. They ripple through communities, instilling fear and despair. Families are torn apart, and the fabric of society is frayed. I often find myself reflecting on the emotional toll this takes on both Palestinians and Israelis. What does it mean to live in a state where life is so precarious? Where the threat of violence looms large, and the value of human life seems diminished?

The Role of International Community

The international community has a crucial role to play. Silence in the face of such atrocities only emboldens those who perpetrate them. We must ask ourselves: what can be done to hold accountable those responsible for these actions? How can we advocate for a future where dialogue replaces violence, and where human security is prioritized over military might?

A Call for Reflection

As I ponder these questions, I am reminded of the importance of understanding the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It is not merely a political issue; it is a deeply human one. Each life lost is a story untold, a potential unrealized. We must strive for a world where empathy and understanding guide our actions.

Conclusion: A Hope for Change

In conclusion, the current state of affairs is alarming. The normalization of targeted killings and the dehumanization of Palestinians must be challenged. We have a responsibility to advocate for peace, justice, and understanding. Only then can we hope to break the cycle of violence and create a future where all individuals can live with dignity and security.

As we navigate these turbulent waters, let us remember that change begins with us. It starts with conversations, with education, and with a commitment to seeking the truth. Together, we can work towards a more just and peaceful world.