**Israeli Military Report on Deadly Attack in Gaza Called “Full of Lies”**
The Palestinian Red Crescent Society (PRCS) has rejected an Israeli military report on a deadly attack against its paramedics, calling it “full of lies”. The incident occurred on March 23, when 14 emergency workers and one UN worker were killed after an Israeli military convoy was attacked.
According to the PRCS, the Israeli military’s investigation is invalid because it attempts to justify and shift responsibility for the deaths onto a personal mistake in the field command. However, the truth, they claim, is quite the opposite. The PRCS has long called for an independent investigation into the incident, but the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) Fact-Finding Committee conducted the probe.
**Investigation Criticized as Not Thorough Enough**
The UN’s humanitarian chief in Gaza, Jonathan Whittall, has also criticized the investigation, saying it was not thorough enough. He argues that a lack of accountability undermines international laws and makes the world more dangerous. “Without accountability, we risk watching atrocities unfold and the norms that are designed to protect us eroding,” he said.
**Video Footage Contradicts IDF Claims**
The Israeli military report claims that the incident occurred in a “hostile, dangerous combat zone” where the commander perceived a tangible threat when vehicles approached quickly. However, video footage from a medic’s phone shows the vehicles’ lights on and emergency signals flashing as they pulled up along the road. The footage also captures the paramedics wearing reflective hi-vis uniforms and clearly marked vehicles.
The Israeli military initially claimed that the account was “mistaken”, but this claim has been contradicted by the video evidence. The report also stated that the bodies of 15 dead workers were buried under sand to “prevent further harm”, which is seen as a disturbing and inhumane practice.
**Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza**
The incident occurred during Israel’s campaign against Hamas, which was launched in response to cross-border attacks on October 7, 2023. The conflict has resulted in the deaths of at least 51,201 Palestinians in Gaza, according to the Hamas-run Health Ministry. The PRCS and other international organizations have been calling for an independent investigation into the incident.
As the humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to unfold, it is essential that accountability is taken seriously. The Israeli military’s report has raised more questions than answers, and it is crucial that a thorough and impartial investigation is conducted to uncover the truth behind this tragic event.
**Commentary**
The rejection of the Israeli military report by the PRCS highlights the need for an independent investigation into the incident. The video footage provides clear evidence that contradicts the IDF’s claims, and it is essential that those responsible are held accountable. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to worsen, and it is crucial that international laws and norms are respected.
**Analysis**
The incident on March 23 has sparked widespread outrage and condemnation from human rights organizations and international leaders. The Israeli military’s report has been widely criticized for its lack of thoroughness and impartiality. As the conflict in Gaza continues, it is essential that accountability is taken seriously to prevent similar incidents from happening again.
The video footage provides a chilling account of the events leading up to the attack, and it highlights the importance of independent investigations into such incidents. The PRCS’s rejection of the report is a clear indication that the Israeli military must do more to provide transparency and accountability in its investigations.
**Conclusion**
In conclusion, the Palestinian Red Crescent Society has rejected an Israeli military report on a deadly attack against its paramedics, calling it “full of lies”. The incident occurred during Israel’s campaign against Hamas, which has resulted in significant humanitarian suffering in Gaza. It is essential that accountability is taken seriously and that an independent investigation into this tragic event is conducted.
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