Israel Changes IDF Engagement Rules Amid Conflict

Recent reports, including an investigation by the New York Times, reveal that the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) significantly altered their rules of engagement following the Hamas-led attacks on October 7, 2023. These changes allowed mid-ranking officers to conduct strikes on a wider range of targets in Gaza, even at the risk of higher civilian casualties. The new directives expanded the definition of military targets and permitted operations that could potentially endanger up to 500 civilians each day. This shift in military strategy has been criticized by human rights groups for disregarding international humanitarian law, with over 15,000 Palestinian casualties reported in the first weeks of the conflict. The IDF, however, maintains that these measures were necessary due to the existential threat posed by Hamas. The reports highlight a lack of post-strike reviews and accountability for civilian harm, raising concerns about the ethical conduct of military operations in Gaza.