Israeli Military Acknowledges ‘Professional Failures’ in Review of Gaza Aid Workers’ Deaths

Israel Acknowledges Error in Fatal Ambulance Shooting, Citing Mistaken Identity During Night Operation

The Israeli military has expressed regret over the deaths of unarmed civilians during a mission targeting Hamas operatives, stating that although the operation was intended to target terrorists, it mistakenly led to the killing of medics and aid workers.

While acknowledging what occurred, Israeli officials maintain that the broader mission was critical for national security. They continue to assert that Hamas frequently exploits humanitarian infrastructure—such as ambulances—for military purposes, including transporting weapons and fighters under the guise of medical relief.

An internal report on the incident acknowledges that, in general, no effort was made to hide the incident. However, it does highlight troubling aspects, including the burial of victims’ bodies and the destruction of ambulances involved—actions the military admitted were “wrong.”

Initially, the military claimed its forces had opened fire on unmarked vehicles traveling at night with no lights, which were perceived as a threat. But this account was contradicted when video footage retrieved from the mobile phone of one of the deceased clearly showed ambulances marked and illuminated. Following the release of the video, the military revised its version of events.

In its final statement, the Israeli military said that troops fired on “suspects” who emerged from a fire truck and ambulances, believing they posed an “immediate and tangible threat.” The deputy commander on the scene reportedly deemed the vehicles to be operated by Hamas forces due to their rapid approach in low-visibility conditions. It was only upon closer inspection that the troops realized the vehicles were part of a rescue operation.

“The deputy commander did not initially recognize the vehicles as ambulances due to the poor visibility at night,” the military report stated. “It was only after approaching and examining the vehicles that it became clear they belonged to rescue teams.”