IDF Responds to Gaza Attack Film, Details Targeting Procedures

Following public and legal controversy surrounding a new film alleging severe IDF violations of open-fire policies and civilian harm in Gaza, senior Israeli Air Force pilots and officials have spoken out to clarify the military's targeting procedures. The film, which has sparked widespread debate, claims to expose alleged IDF misconduct.

However, defense officials emphasize that the process of identifying and engaging targets is highly complex, involving hundreds of regular and reserve officers, soldiers, and intelligence personnel. Retired Brigadier General Yaron Rosen, former head of the Air Group, explained that target identification involves rigorous steps to confirm the target's military nature and the presence of militants within it, followed by planning the munition type, timing, and calculating potential collateral damage. He stressed that collateral damage assessments aim to minimize civilian casualties, not to permit them.

Contrary to the film's assertions, artificial intelligence systems are not used in target identification or collateral damage calculations. Mechanisms like 'roof knocking' are still employed to warn civilians, and strike cancellations occur even when munitions are en route. The military also stated that any deviation from standard open-fire policies for high-value targets requires approval from the Air Force commander and the Chief of Staff. Data indicates that over the past three years, more than 60% of such requests for exceptions were denied.

Security sources vehemently reject the film's portrayal of extreme procedures, such as pre-approving hundreds of civilian casualties for a single strike. They cited the Al-Ahli hospital incident as an example of a false claim of Israeli responsibility, which investigations revealed was a failed Hamas rocket launch. The defense establishment maintains that even isolated failures are investigated and that the IDF operates under stringent ethical standards, adhering to international law and the value of human life.