Israeli troops are systematically forcing Palestinians to act as human shields in Gaza, sending them into buildings and tunnels to check for bombs and gunmen, according to testimonies from Palestinians and Israeli soldiers gathered by the Associated Press.
The AP interviewed seven Palestinians who described being used as shields in Gaza and the occupied West Bank, and two Israeli military members who said they engaged in the practice, which violates international law. The sources said the practice has become widespread during 19 months of war.
Israel’s military said in a statement it “strictly prohibits” using civilians as shields and bans coercing civilians to participate in operations, adding that “all such orders are routinely emphasised to the forces.” The military said it is investigating several cases but did not provide details or answer questions about the extent of the practice or orders from commanding officers.
Rights groups say Israel has used Palestinians as shields in Gaza and the West Bank for decades. Israel’s Supreme Court outlawed the practice in 2005, but groups have continued documenting violations. Experts told AP this war marks the first time in decades the practice has been so widespread.
Israel has long accused Hamas of using human shields in Gaza and blames the militants for civilian casualties in its offensive that has killed tens of thousands of Palestinians.
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