April 20, 2025 — The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) acknowledged that a “misunderstanding” was behind a deadly strike that killed multiple emergency workers in Gaza earlier this week. The incident, which drew sharp international condemnation, occurred as medical personnel responded to casualties in the southern part of the besieged enclave.
In a statement released Saturday, the IDF said its preliminary investigation revealed that the targeted group had been misidentified during an ongoing military operation. “We deeply regret the loss of lives and extend our condolences to the families of those killed,” the IDF said. “This was not an intentional targeting of medical teams.”
Local health authorities in Gaza reported that at least five emergency responders were killed in the strike, all affiliated with the Palestinian Red Crescent and other humanitarian services. Eyewitnesses said the workers were wearing clearly marked uniforms and had arrived at the scene in ambulances bearing medical insignia.
The incident has intensified scrutiny of Israel’s military tactics amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza, with humanitarian organizations calling for greater protection for medical personnel operating in war zones. The United Nations has demanded a transparent and independent investigation into the killings.
Human rights groups are urging accountability, noting that repeated incidents involving civilian and aid worker casualties raise serious concerns under international law.
The IDF said it is reviewing its engagement protocols and will take “corrective measures” to prevent similar incidents in the future. However, critics argue that without an independent probe, such reassurances fall short.
The broader conflict continues to escalate, with rising casualties and an increasingly dire humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza.
