A distressing video has emerged, showing a mentally disabled Palestinian man being shot and wounded by individuals dressed in military fatigues near the West Bank city of Hebron. The video, reviewed by CNN, depicts a harrowing incident that highlights the ongoing tensions in the region.

The victim, Tarek Abu Abed, also known as "Ghazzawi," was on his way home when he was stopped by three men dressed in military attire and asked for identification, as reported by Tarek's brother, Diaa Abu Abed, in a telephone conversation with CNN. Diaa emphasized that anyone who meets Tarek can immediately recognize that he has special needs and that his brain functions similarly to that of a child.

Diaa Abu Abed identified the men who halted his brother as Israeli soldiers. It is worth noting that some Israeli settlers also wear military fatigues and have access to military assault rifles. However, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) declined to comment on the incident when approached by CNN.

According to Diaa Abu Abed, an argument ensued when Tarek Abu Abed explained that he did not possess any identification. The accompanying video, filmed down the street from the incident, shows three men in military fatigues standing over Tarek, who is on his hands and knees. His friend, wearing a red shirt, can be seen next to him.

Diaa Abu Abed clarified that Tarek's friend intervened to defend him, emphasizing his mental disabilities to the Israeli soldiers, but they refused to listen. The video then captures the tense moments as the men train their rifles on Tarek. Shouting can be heard, and Tarek appears to be attempting to stand up, displaying signs of agitation. Suddenly, a gunshot rings out, causing Tarek to collapse to the ground in pain. The men continue to point their weapons at him, causing distress among the gathered local residents.

An onlooker promptly contacted Diaa Abu Abed, who arrived at the scene shortly after the incident occurred. The Palestine Red Crescent Society stated in a Tuesday statement that they transported a 34-year-old man, later identified as Tarek Abu Abed, to the hospital with a bullet wound in his leg. Tarek's brother confirmed that he suffered heavy bleeding and underwent leg surgery.

The incident adds to the escalating violence in the West Bank, as clashes and settler attacks increasingly spill over from the Israel-Hamas conflict. The Palestinian Ministry of Health reports that since October 7, Israeli troops or settlers have killed at least 256 Palestinians in the West Bank and East Jerusalem.

The video capturing the shooting of Tarek Abu Abed has shocked the international community, renewing calls for accountability and an end to the violence plaguing the region. As tensions persist, it remains crucial to address the underlying issues and work towards a peaceful resolution.