IDF Forces in Gaza (credit IDF)
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has completed its internal investigation into the recent incident in Gaza, where IDF fire mistakenly targeted rescue teams and vehicles. The investigation was led by the General Staff Fact-Finding Mechanism, under the direction of Maj. Gen. (res.) Yoav Har-Even, and findings were formally presented to IDF Chief of the General Staff, Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir.
The comprehensive examination involved collecting and analyzing a wide range of data, including operational system logs, on-the-ground reports, and accounts from every level of the chain of command. Debriefings were carried out with units in the field, divisional headquarters, and the Southern Command. Investigators also reviewed relevant operational orders, directives, surveillance footage, and radio communications from the time of the incident.
To ensure accuracy, the incident was reconstructed at the scene, and operational personnel directly involved were thoroughly questioned. The investigation was conducted by an independent, senior team, operating separately from the operational command structure. The Chief of the General Staff provided full support to ensure all necessary measures were taken to uncover the facts and ensure transparency.
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This detailed review reflects the IDF’s commitment to accountability and improving operational protocols to prevent future friendly fire incidents in active conflict zones.
“The findings show that the incident occurred in a hostile and dangerous combat zone, under a widespread threat to the operating troops,” said the IDF. “The backdrop of the incident is the challenge and the responsibility of the IDF to respect and protect medical teams and facilities carrying out their duties, while also confronting Hamas’ repeated use of such infrastructure for terrorism, including using ambulances to transport terrorists and weapons.”
“On the night of the incident, March 23, 2025, the troops were conducting a vital mission aimed at targeting terrorists,” it added.
The Chief of the General Staff and the Commanding Officer of the Southern Command accepted the examination’s findings. The Chief of the General Staff accepted the Commanding Officer of the Southern Command’s recommendation on the following command measures:
The Commanding Officer of the 14th Brigade will receive a reprimand, which will be recorded in his personal file, for his overall responsibility for the incident, including the procedure of combat and management of the scene afterward.
The deputy commander of the IDF’s Golani Reconnaissance Battalion will be dismissed from his position due to his responsibilities as the field commander in this incident and for providing an incomplete and inaccurate report during the debrief.
