IDF Continues Investigations Into Sensitive Gaza Incidents Including Child Death and Medical Staff Killings

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) updated on Wednesday the status of investigations into five notable incidents in the Gaza Strip since the outbreak of the current conflict. Among these, the deaths of six-year-old Hind Rajab and 15 Palestinians, including medical personnel in Tal al-Sultan, are under continued examination by the Military Police Criminal Investigation Division (MPCID). Two other incidents were cleared of reasonable suspicion of criminal offenses, while one is under consideration for disciplinary measures.

In April 2024, seven aid workers from the World Central Kitchen (WCK) were killed in an IDF strike on a convoy in Deir al-Balah. The investigation found that soldiers mistakenly identified some individuals as armed militants and believed Hamas had taken over the convoy. Attempts to contact WCK representatives failed. Following the incident, two officers were dismissed and three senior commanders reprimanded. The Military Advocate General ruled that despite errors, no criminal threshold was crossed, so no MPCID investigation was opened.

In January 2024, an IDF strike on a vehicle in Gaza City killed five passengers, including Hind Rajab and her six-year-old cousin Lian. After paramedics were fired upon while arriving, two medics were killed, and later the children’s bodies were found. Due to alleged coordination failures regarding ambulance movement, the case was transferred to MPCID for further investigation.

In March 2025, IDF forces fired on vehicles during an ambush in Tal al-Sultan, killing 15 Palestinians, including medical staff. Six of the dead were identified as Hamas members. The troops subsequently covered the bodies with wire mesh. The Military Prosecutor found reasonable suspicion of criminal offenses and ordered an MPCID investigation. Command disciplinary actions were also taken.

Another incident in February 2024 involved an IDF shell hitting a building in Khan Yunis used by Doctors Without Borders (MSF), killing two women and injuring seven. The soldiers were unaware of the building’s affiliation and considered it a threat. No MPCID investigation was opened, but disciplinary steps are being reviewed. A November 2023 incident involving IDF firing at an MSF convoy resulted in two deaths, but no criminal suspicion was found.

Since the war began, the IDF’s investigative mechanism has completed inquiries into approximately 150 events. The military emphasized that all incidents undergo thorough review by the General Staff’s investigative body and the Military Prosecutor’s Office to ensure accountability and transparency.