IDF Legal Advisor Rejects Film's Claims on Gaza War Conduct
Translated & summarized from Behadrei Haredim by baba
The IDF's Military Advocate General, Aital Ofir, refuted claims made in the film "Accidental Damage" regarding civilian harm during the Gaza war, stating the film is "detached from reality." He explained that collateral damage assessments are crucial to IDF operations and have led to strike modifications or cancellations. Ofir also addressed genocide accusations, reiterating the war's aims were to dismantle Hamas and recover hostages, not harm civilians. Investigations into over a thousand wartime incidents are underway, with some leading to indictments.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- IDF Military Advocate General Aital Ofir called the film "Accidental Damage" detached from reality.
- Ofir stated collateral damage assessments are integral to IDF strike approvals.
- These assessments have led to changes in attack plans and cancellations.
- The war's aims were to dismantle Hamas and recover hostages, not harm civilians.
- Over 1,000 wartime incidents are under review by the IDF.
- Dozens of criminal investigations have been opened, with some indictments filed.
The Military Advocate General, Major General Aital Ofir, has responded to the film "Accidental Damage," which raised serious allegations against the IDF's conduct during the war in the Gaza Strip. Speaking at an international conference, Ofir dismissed the film's portrayal as detached from reality and not reflective of IDF decision-making processes regarding potential civilian harm.
Ofir clarified that, contrary to the film's depiction, assessing collateral damage is an integral part of approving strikes. This assessment aims to preemptively evaluate and minimize potential harm to civilians. He emphasized that these evaluations are not merely technical; they have led to modifications in attack plans and, in some instances, to the cancellation of strikes altogether.
The Military Advocate General also addressed international accusations against Israel, including claims of genocide in Gaza. He asserted that the war's objectives were to dismantle Hamas's military and governing capabilities and to recover hostages, not to harm the civilian population.
Ofir also presented data on the IDF's review and investigation mechanisms since the war began. He stated that over a thousand incidents requiring review were identified at the war's outset. To date, more than 150 factual reviews have been completed, hundreds more are ongoing, and dozens of criminal investigations into incidents in Gaza have been opened, with indictments filed in some cases.
