In a recent video released by the Israel Defence Forces (IDF), former Hamas operatives disclosed that the group is using civilians as human shields and employing various tactics to hide their operations. The IDF presented new interrogations of Palestinian terror suspects captured in the Gaza Strip.
Israel has long accused Hamas of using civilians as human shields, citing instances of locating operations under hospitals, launching rockets from schools, and storing weapons around civilian areas. The IDF video showcased testimonies, including one from Zahdy Ali Zahdy Shahin, identified as a former Hamas operative, who expressed feeling used as a human shield.
Shahin recounted an incident where Hamas gunmen diverted him and others to al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza City, using civilians as cover. He revealed that when IDF forces reached the hospital, Hamas operatives emerged from tunnels and hid among civilians, confirming the allegations of human shield tactics.
Another detainee, Muhammad Darwish Amara, a member of the Palestinian Islamic Jihad, shared his experience of Hamas fighters taking over his home. Amara revealed that he disapproved of Hamas using his residence for combat against the IDF and described instances where explosives were placed near civilian homes.
Israel’s Response and Ongoing Offensive
Israel emphasized its ground offensive in Gaza, aiming to destroy Hamas infrastructure and eliminate the entire terror group ruling the Strip. The IDF asserted that they target areas where Hamas operates while seeking to minimize civilian casualties. A senior Israeli military official stated that the use of human shields is part of Hamas’s core strategy.
The ongoing conflict has led to casualties, with the Hamas-run Gaza health ministry claiming over 20,000 deaths, though this figure is unverified and does not distinguish between combatants and civilians. Israel continues its defensive actions against Hamas, asserting its right to defend its borders.
Escalation of Conflict with Hezbollah
Recent developments indicate an escalation, with launches from Lebanon towards northern Israel causing injuries to five IDF soldiers. Israel responded with strikes on Hezbollah terrorist infrastructure and military sites, citing violations of UN Security Council Resolution 1701. The IDF remains committed to defending its borders from any threats.
Casualty Figures and Israeli Assessments
Israeli assessments report approximately 8,500 terror operatives killed since the beginning of the conflict, with an additional 1,000 Hamas terrorists killed in a specific attack on or after October 7. The situation remains tense as both sides engage in military actions and the international community closely monitors the evolving developments.
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