An Israeli military inquiry into the deaths of 15 Palestinian medics in Gaza has revealed a series of “professional failures” among its forces. The investigation has resulted in the dismissal of a deputy battalion commander, marking one of the most significant repercussions during the ongoing conflict, which has endured for 18 months.
The inquiry, disclosed publicly, determined that the deputy commander mistook ambulances for Hamas vehicles due to poor visibility at night. Video evidence indicated that the ambulances were clearly marked and had emergency lights flashing as they approached a situation where another ambulance had come under gunfire.
The tragic incident occurred on March 23, when Israeli troops opened fire, resulting in the deaths of eight Red Crescent workers, six Civil Defence personnel, and a UN staff member. Following the attack, the bodies were buried under bulldozed debris, and it took a week for authorities to recover them. Palestinian Red Crescent officials stated that their personnel were fired upon at close range, while the Israeli investigation found no evidence to support claims of execution.
According to the Israeli military, the deaths were attributed to an “operational misunderstanding,” and it acknowledged that a separate shooting incident involving a UN vehicle was conducted improperly. The investigation concluded that despite some fatalities being initially misidentified, six deceased were confirmed as Hamas militants, though it did not disclose their identities.
The military investigation ruled that no paramedics were armed and that no weapons were discovered in any of the vehicles involved. Israeli officials have contended that Hamas exploits ambulances and medical personnel for combat purposes, an assertion that is refuted by medical representatives.
While the military expressed regret for the loss of civilian lives, it remains to be seen whether legal action will result from the findings, as the report has been forwarded to the Military Advocate General for potential prosecution.
Despite the internal inquiry, concerns persist about the adequacy of investigations into military conduct, with accusations of inadequate accountability from human rights organisations and Palestinian representatives. The conflict has escalated since Hamas militants launched an assault on Israel in October 2023, which prompted a significant military response resulting in widespread devastation and loss of life in Gaza. As humanitarian conditions in Gaza continue to deteriorate, and with the population primarily displaced, tensions remain high on both sides.