Israel Opens First Criminal Probes Into Gaza Killings
Israel's military announced first criminal investigations into Gaza troop conduct Wednesday. The cases involve the killing of 5-year-old Hind Rajab and her family.
They also involve the killing of 15 Palestinian paramedics. Both cases caused international criticism of Israel's conduct in Gaza.
The cases were transferred to military police. The military reviewed 150 incidents and made decisions on five cases.
It found no criminal grounds to investigate three other deadly attacks. One attack hit a World Central Kitchen convoy killing seven staff.
The military blamed mistaken identification and a route error. Two other attacks killed four Doctors Without Borders staff members.
In the Hind Rajab case troops fired at her family's vehicle. They also fired at the ambulance sent to rescue her.
In the paramedic case one deputy commander will step down. Critics called the two investigations a "charade" over selective enforcement.
The killing of Hind Rajab also inspired a film. Investigations like these have rarely led to convictions.
Key Terms 4
- Hind Rajab A 5-year-old girl killed in Gaza whose death caused global outcry.
- World Central Kitchen An aid group that provides meals during disasters and crises.
- Doctors Without Borders An international charity providing emergency medical care worldwide.
- military police The branch that investigates crimes committed by soldiers.