Israeli soldiers guard Beit Furik checkpoint during West Bank blockade restricting Palestinian movement near Nablus. Credit: Eddie Gerald/Alamy Live News
Jerusalem, Israel — The IDF’s inquiry into the killing of Gaza medics identifies operational failures, including a breach of orders and misunderstanding during the attack on March 23.
IDF Confirms Operational Mistakes in Gaza Medic Deaths
An internal investigation by the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) has confirmed that operational failures led to the deaths of 15 emergency workers, including several Gaza medics, during a military strike on March 23. The convoy, which included Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS) ambulances, a United Nations vehicle, and a fire truck, was fired upon in southern Gaza.
The IDF stated that its troops believed they were responding to an immediate threat after the convoy moved rapidly through a combat zone. The incident was attributed to poor visibility and an operational misunderstanding on the part of field commanders. The deputy commander responsible has been dismissed for delivering an incomplete and inaccurate report during the debrief.
Footage Contradicts Initial IDF Claims About Gaza Medic Convoy
Initial IDF reports suggested the convoy had approached suspiciously in darkness without headlights or coordination. However, video footage recovered from the phone of a slain Gaza medic shows the vehicles clearly marked, with headlights and emergency lights activated. The video, which lasts over five minutes, captures the moment Israeli troops opened fire just before dawn.
The footage also records the paramedic reciting prayers before Israeli soldiers approach the vehicles. All medics are seen wearing high-visibility uniforms, and their ambulances bear medical insignia. PRCS officials say this contradicts claims that the troops could not identify them due to darkness.
Calls Grow for Independent Probe Into Gaza Medic Killings
Following the incident, the IDF acknowledged detaining a PRCS medic, identified by the International Committee of the Red Cross as Assad al-Nassasra. His current condition and location have not been disclosed by Israeli authorities. The Red Crescent and multiple humanitarian organisations continue to call for an impartial international investigation into the killings.
The bodies of the 15 emergency responders were left buried in sand until recovery was possible a week later. Access to the site was delayed due to security concerns and coordination difficulties with international agencies.
Past Disciplinary Actions Mirror Gaza Medic Incident
This incident mirrors previous IDF disciplinary actions, including the dismissal of officers following the deaths of seven aid workers from World Central Kitchen in April 2024. In both cases, the IDF admitted internal failures but has resisted independent oversight.
The Gaza medic deaths occurred as Israel resumed its military offensive in the region on March 18, ending a temporary ceasefire. The wider conflict began after Hamas launched an unprecedented cross-border assault on October 7, 2023, resulting in approximately 1,200 deaths in Israel and the capture of 251 hostages.
Since then, over 51,000 people have been reported killed in Gaza, according to figures from the Hamas-run health ministry.
