IDF Investigates Multiple Gaza Incidents Involving Civilian Deaths and Suspends Commanders

The IDF Spokesperson released details on several incidents in the Gaza Strip that were investigated by the military’s operational inquiry mechanism. Among the cases examined were the deaths of seven World Central Kitchen (WCK) employees in April 2024, the shooting at an ambulance resulting in nine deaths including child Hind Rajab in January 2024, the killing of medical personnel and Doctors Without Borders staff in February and November 2023, and the deaths of 15 Palestinians including medical workers in March 2025.

On April 1, 2024, during a WCK humanitarian aid convoy, IDF forces identified armed individuals on a truck within the convoy and suspected Hamas intended to seize the aid. The convoy had hired armed security without coordinating with the IDF. After the convoy deviated from the agreed route, IDF forces attacked the vehicles, resulting in seven WCK staff deaths. Attempts to contact WCK representatives during the incident failed. Following the inquiry, the IDF dismissed the battalion aid commander and chief of staff, reprimanded higher commanders, but found no criminal wrongdoing.

In January 2024, IDF forces fired on a vehicle carrying members of the Hamada family, killing five and injuring two children, including Hind Rajab. An ambulance sent for evacuation was also hit by gunfire, killing two paramedics. Due to coordination failures regarding the ambulance, the Military Police Investigations Unit is continuing the investigation.

In March 2025, IDF forces ambushed Hamas operatives near Tal al-Sultan, firing on vehicles later identified as fire trucks, ambulances, and a UN vehicle, killing 15 Palestinians, six affiliated with Hamas. Command disciplinary actions were taken, and a Military Police investigation is ongoing due to suspicion of criminal conduct.

In February 2024, an IDF strike hit a building belonging to Doctors Without Borders in Khan Younis, killing two women and injuring seven. The building was mistakenly targeted as a Hamas position, with no updated intelligence on its humanitarian status. The military prosecutor is reviewing possible disciplinary measures.

In November 2023, two Doctors Without Borders staff were killed after IDF forces fired warning shots at an uncoordinated convoy that reversed course without approval. The investigation found no direct fire at the convoy and no criminal suspicion.

Following these events, IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir ordered restrictions on operations in Gaza and disciplinary measures against involved commanders. The Military Police continues probing incidents with potential criminal implications.