The findings by US intelligence led Washington to question the use of human shields by West Jerusalem, the outlet said
Israeli troops employed the tactic of sending Palestinian civilians into Hamas tunnels that they knew might be rigged with explosives, a practice the country’s leadership was aware of, Reuters has reported, citing former US officials with knowledge of intelligence.
Information about Israel officials discussing the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) engaging is such practices was shared with the administration of President Joe Biden by US intelligence agencies in the final months of 2024, the agency said on Thursday.
This prompted questions within the White House and US intelligence community over how extensively Israel had used civilians as human shields during the Gaza operation, according to two sources. Such tactics violate international law and are considered a war crime.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said in a statement that it “prohibits the use of civilians as human shields or coercing them in any way to participate in military operations.” The Israeli military police told Reuters it was investigating “suspicions involving Palestinians in military missions.”
Last year, the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant over alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity committed by the IDF in Gaza. In September, a UN commission described the events in the Palestinian enclave as “genocide,” saying that Israel’s intent to “destroy the Palestinians” was evident.
Israel and Hamas agreed to a ceasefire in early October under US President Donald Trump’s 20-point peace plan. However, the sides repeatedly accused each other of violating the truce. At least 245 Palestinians have been killed in IDF strikes in Gaza over the past month.
Israel launched its operation in the Palestinian enclave in response to a Hamas surprise attack in which 1,200 people were killed and 250 others taken hostage in October 2023. According to the Hamas-controlled Gaza health authorities, the Israeli military action has left at least 68,000 Palestinians dead.
