JERUSALEM — The Israeli government has rejected a request to pay the
medical bills of an American student who was seriously wounded by
Israeli police.
Emily Henochowicz was struck in the face by a tear
gas canister during a violent demonstration May 31 and lost an eye. The
21-year-old Maryland native has returned to the U.S. and will need
prolonged medical care.
Her lawyers say the Defense Ministry should pay the estimated $3,700 for her medical treatment in Israel.
Her lawyers allege the policeman fired directly at her. Police say the canister bounced and the injury was unintentional.
The
Defense Ministry said in a statement Wednesday it regrets her injury
but that Henochowicz, who also holds Israeli citizenship, endangered
herself by participating in the demonstration.
