Free Press Unlimited urgently calls for an investigation into the killing of Shireen Abu Akleh

In order to safeguard the integrity of the investigation, Free Press Unlimited appeals to the Palestinian and the Israeli authorities to allow the participation of independent forensic experts in the investigation into  the killing of Shireen Abuh Akleh. These investigators should have access to all available documentation and evidence collected on the case including access to the crime scene and to hear witnesses - including the medical staff that treated Shireen Abuh Akleh upon arrival and declared her death, as well as to oversee the autopsy of the body of Shireen Abuh Akleh.

In order to safeguard the effectiveness and thoroughness of the investigation of the murder of Shireen Abuh Akleh, and in order to identify the context and the motive of the killing, the investigation should include a thorough analysis of Shireen Abuh Akleh's past and ongoing work, and an assessment of  the circumstances in which the killing took place. To this end, Free Press Unlimited appeals to the Palestinian and the Israeli authorities to allow an independent and external body to conduct such an investigation.

In addition, the Palestinian and Israeli authorities should invite the UN Special Rapporteur on Extra-Legal, Arbitrary and Summary Executions, to assess the investigation, monitor results and offer technical advice pertinent for ensuring that the investigation is compliant with the highest international standards, without compromising the due diligence and promptness required for under international law for an investigation into a potentially unlawful death.

Photo header: Anas-Mohammed