Israel Probes Alleged Systematic Use of Palestinian Human Shields in Gaza

Multiple reports from Palestinian testimonies, Israeli whistleblowers, and media investigations reveal that Israeli soldiers have systematically used Palestinians as human shields during military operations in Gaza, forcing them to enter buildings and tunnels to check for explosives and militants. This practice has reportedly become widespread over 19 months of conflict, with orders often coming from higher military ranks and nearly every platoon participating. Victims, such as Ayman Abu Hamadan, describe being bound or blindfolded except when used as shields and facing threats of death if they refuse. Israeli military officials acknowledge investigations into several cases but deny the practice is sanctioned, emphasizing that orders prohibiting coercion and use of civilians as shields are routinely reinforced. Human rights groups and former Israeli soldiers characterize this as a systemic failure and moral collapse, highlighting a stark contrast with Israel's condemnation of Hamas for similar tactics. The revelations have intensified calls for accountability and scrutiny of Israeli military conduct in Gaza amid allegations of war crimes.