On March 19, Israeli forces opened fire on Yussef Sami Shawamreh, 15, and two of his friends near the Israeli separation barrier in the village of Deir al-Asal al-Tahta, west of al-Khalil (Hebron).

B’Tselem on Wednesday said investigation had found no evidence to support the Israeli army's claims the youths had "sabotaged" the Israeli separation barrier in the area.

The NGO said the three were crossing the barrier in order to pick gundelia, a thistle-like edible plant that is annually harvested at this time of year and serves as an important source of income for local residents.

“The section of the Separation Barrier in this area lies within the West Bank…not far from the village homes. The al-Shawamrehs own farmland that is now separated from them by the barrier, and that land is where the three youths were heading to gather plants,” it explained.

The rights group said army commanders who approved the use of live rounds are primarily responsible for the death of the Palestinian boy.

"The decision to mount an armed ambush at a point in the barrier known to be crossed by youths, who pose no danger whatsoever to anyone, for the purpose of harvesting plants is highly questionable," it said.

The Israeli army earlier claimed that they had warned the youngsters verbally and by shots in the air.

RA/NJF