Israel rejects demand from wounded US activist for payment of medical fees
By APWednesday, July 28, 2010
Israel won’t pay medical bill for wounded American
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.
