Soldiers Describe Alleged Civilian Killings
Ten Israeli soldiers have described alleged unlawful killings and destruction during Israel’s war in Gaza in testimony reported by the German magazine Der Spiegel and covered by Middle East Eye.
One soldier said his unit had killed many unarmed men. Other accounts described Palestinians being shot in areas where troops operated and alleged that some people killed were later recorded as “terrorists”, despite uncertainty about whether they were armed.
Questions About Rules and Record-Keeping
The soldiers also described extensive destruction in parts of Gaza, including demolitions they said were intended to prevent Palestinians from returning to their homes. One account cited in the reporting said a brigade killed between 160 and 170 people during an operation lasting more than 80 days, while the soldier believed only one had been an armed fighter.
These are soldiers’ accounts and allegations, not judicial findings. The specific incidents and identities or status of those killed require independent investigation. The reporting raises questions about rules of engagement, military record-keeping and civilian protection.
Establishing responsibility for any alleged violations would require examination of orders, operational records and evidence from the locations involved.
