A Palestinian man was shot and killed by an Israeli commander in Rafah, Gaza, while assisting Israel Defense Forces (IDF) troops, according to a report from The Hottest Place in Hell, a Hebrew-language investigative news outlet. The man had been coerced into acting as a human shield to search buildings in Gaza’s Khan Yunis area before Israeli forces entered. Despite receiving permission from the IDF to be on site, the man was mistakenly shot by a commander from the Nahal Brigade.
The IDF later confirmed the incident, stating that an internal investigation had been conducted and that the findings were implemented in current operations. The use of Palestinians as human shields by Israeli forces has long drawn criticism from human rights groups, with previous reports from outlets like Haaretz and CNN highlighting similar practices in Gaza. Palestinians, including minors, have claimed they were forced to assist IDF soldiers under threat of violence.
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This practice, known as the “mosquito protocol,” raises significant concerns due to its violation of international humanitarian law. Human rights organizations have condemned the tactic, stating that it puts civilians at unnecessary risk. Despite a 2005 ruling from Israel’s Supreme Court declaring the use of human shields illegal, the practice appears to have resurfaced, prompting international outrage.
The death of the Palestinian man has reignited calls for accountability and an end to such military practices in Gaza. Rights groups are urging stronger measures to ensure the protection of civilians in conflict zones. As Israel’s military operations in Gaza continue, now on their 458th day, the incident underscores ongoing human rights concerns and the need for greater adherence to international law.
