South Dakota Eye Bank Denies Fault in Palestinians' Injuries

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — A South Dakota-based eye and tissue bank says it isn't responsible for injuries caused by infected corneas that were shipped to Palestine.

The two Palestinians are suing the South Dakota Lions Eye and Tissue Bank, alleging the corneas provided for their transplants have caused them eye problems. The lawsuit says the 19-year-old woman became blind in her right eye and the 17-year-old male's vision is threatened in both eyes.

The eye and tissue bank says in its response to the federal lawsuit that problems with the transplants were beyond its control, and that Palestinians have no right to sue in the United States.

The Argus Leader reports that the lawsuit also targets Minnesota-based American Donor Services, which has declined to comment on the case.