The family of an American activist who died after being crushed by an Israeli bulldozer in Gaza seven years ago have launched their legal bid for compensation.
The parents of Rachel Corrie have accused the Israeli military of a cover-up during its investigation into her death. They are seeking an unspecified amount in damages from Israel’s Defense Ministry.
Corrie, who was 23, died when she attempted to stop an Israeli bulldozer from flattening a home in Gaza. The driver claims he failed to spot her, and the Israeli military agreed, ruling the death an accident.
Corrie was a member of the International Solidarity Movement, an organisation of volunteers who travel to volatile situations in order to assist Palestinians. The activists regularly put themselves in the middle of Israeli forces and Palestinians, endeavouring to stop the Israeli military from proceeding with its operations.
During the opening of the case on Wednesday, the Corries’ lawyer said a new investigation into her death should be carried out.
Husein Abu Husein said: “The Israeli government is covering this up under the umbrella of combat activity, which absolves soldiers of responsibility.”
He added that he would make his case over the next two weeks, however, a ruling won’t be reached for about a year.
