Israel’s Military Advocate General has initiated an investigation into possible war crimes following reports that Israeli forces intentionally fired at Palestinian civilians near aid distribution sites in Gaza. According to Haaretz, unnamed Israeli soldiers claimed they were ordered to use lethal force to control crowds, even when individuals posed no apparent threat.
These actions allegedly occurred near zones where humanitarian aid was being distributed. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has denied issuing directives to shoot civilians, stating that their focus is on improving safety and logistics in those areas.
Hundreds Killed Near Gaza Aid Sites as IDF Faces War Crimes Allegations Review
Over the past month, hundreds of Palestinians have reportedly been killed around aid distribution points, according to local hospitals and officials. As food and essential supplies remain scarce in Gaza, large crowds frequently gather at distribution centers, making them volatile zones.
Six more civilians were reportedly killed by gunfire in the southern Gaza Strip on Friday while trying to access food. The situation has drawn international concern as the humanitarian crisis deepens due to the prolonged military conflict.
Sources within the IDF disclosed to Haaretz that a special army unit has been assigned to review actions near aid sites for potential violations of international law. During a closed-door meeting with senior officials from the Military Advocate General’s office, legal representatives reportedly dismissed IDF claims that these were isolated incidents.
The allegations suggest a more systemic issue with crowd control tactics. The military, however, maintains that all deviations from legal or military protocol will be thoroughly investigated.
GHF Calls for Investigation Amid Rising Civilian Deaths and Mounting Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza
The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), backed by the U.S., stated that no fatal incidents have occurred at or immediately near their distribution sites. Nonetheless, they emphasized that the IDF is responsible for ensuring the safety of civilians seeking aid.
GHF has urged the Israeli government to conduct a transparent and timely investigation into the claims. The organization highlighted the dangerous conditions for civilians, exacerbated by curfews and inconsistent access routes imposed by military operations.
The current military conflict was triggered by a Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, that killed approximately 1,200 Israelis and took over 250 hostages. In retaliation, Israel launched a military offensive that has resulted in over 56,000 Palestinian deaths, the majority of whom are civilians, according to Gaza’s health ministry.
The ministry also reported 72 more deaths and over 170 injuries in the past 24 hours alone. The growing death toll and rising civilian casualties underscore the urgent need for accountability and humanitarian relief.
