IDF Releases Investigations on Aid Worker Deaths and Medical Vehicle Attacks During Iron Swords War

The IDF's General Staff investigation mechanism published conclusions on five significant incidents during the Iron Swords war, including the deaths of aid workers from World Central Kitchen (WCK) and Doctors Without Borders, the killing of paramedics in Rafah, and the death of Hind Rajab in Gaza. Established by government decision and operating under the Chief of Staff's directive, this mechanism assesses unusual operational events to assist commanders and the military prosecution in deciding on criminal investigations.

Regarding the April 1, 2024 incident, seven WCK aid workers were killed when IDF forces fired on their convoy in Gaza, mistakenly identifying armed militants on the trucks. The convoy had hired armed security without coordinating with the IDF. Despite operational errors, the military prosecution found no reasonable suspicion of criminal wrongdoing. Following the incident, the Chief of Staff dismissed a battalion fire officer and a reserve colonel, and reprimanded senior commanders responsible for oversight.

In January 2024, nine people, including child Hind Rajab and paramedics, were killed after IDF fire targeted the Hamada family vehicle and a Red Crescent ambulance in Gaza. Hind had called the Red Crescent for help, with the calls recorded and widely publicized. Due to coordination failures, the Military Police Criminal Investigation Division (MPCID) is continuing to investigate this case.

Another investigation covered the March 2023 killing of 15 Palestinians, including medical personnel and a UN worker, during an IDF ambush in Tel al-Sultan near Rafah. The force fired on vehicles later identified as ambulances, a fire truck, and a UN vehicle. Six of the dead were Hamas members. The Chief of Staff ordered disciplinary measures and the MPCID is investigating possible criminal conduct.

A February 2024 strike on a building in Khan Yunis killed two women and injured seven. The building was later identified as a Doctors Without Borders facility. The IDF fired a single shell at the structure, unaware of its affiliation due to lack of updated intelligence and visibility constraints. The military prosecution decided no criminal investigation was warranted but ordered a review of command responsibility.

Lastly, a November 2023 incident involved warning shots fired at a Doctors Without Borders convoy returning to Gaza City without coordination, resulting in the possible death of two passengers from shrapnel. The IDF emphasized no direct fire was aimed at the vehicles, and no criminal suspicion was found.

These investigations reflect the IDF's efforts to comply with international and Israeli law by scrutinizing operational incidents and determining accountability or the need for further legal action.