The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have been involved in several incidents resulting in the deaths of elderly individuals, raising significant concerns about engagement protocols and the treatment of non-combatants.
Death of 80-Year-Old Palestinian-American Omar Assad
In January 2022, 80-year-old Palestinian-American Omar Assad died shortly after being detained by IDF soldiers in the West Bank village of Jaljulia. Assad was reportedly bound, gagged, and left unresponsive. The IDF acknowledged misconduct, stating that “one of the core values of the Israeli army, to protect human life, has been violated.” Consequently, the commander in charge was reprimanded, and two other superiors were removed from their positions.
Shooting of 72-Year-Old Palestinian Woman
In November 2015, 72-year-old Palestinian woman Thawarat Ashrawi was shot dead by Israeli soldiers near the West Bank town of Halhul. The IDF claimed she attempted to run over soldiers with her vehicle, prompting them to open fire. However, her relatives contested this account, asserting she had no reason to harm anyone and was merely driving by.
Killing of 95-Year-Old Palestinian Woman
In December 2002, 95-year-old Palestinian woman Fatima Mohammad Hassan Abeid was shot dead near Ramallah. Witnesses and hospital staff reported that Israeli troops fired at the vehicle she was in, resulting in her death. Palestinian officials condemned the incident as a “war crime,” while the IDF stated that soldiers had fired warning shots at a car moving on a road closed to Palestinians and then fired at the wheels when it did not stop.
Implications and Concerns
These incidents highlight the complexities and challenges faced by military personnel operating in conflict zones, particularly regarding engagement rules and the protection of civilians. The deaths of elderly individuals have sparked international outcry and calls for thorough investigations to ensure accountability and prevent future occurrences.
The IDF has stated its commitment to upholding moral standards and protecting human life. However, these incidents underscore the need for continuous evaluation and improvement of engagement protocols to safeguard non-combatants, especially vulnerable populations such as the elderly.
Here are the key points:
1. Incident Overview:
• The IDF has faced international scrutiny for incidents involving the deaths of elderly individuals, raising concerns about engagement protocols and civilian protection.
2. Specific Cases:
• Omar Assad (2022): An 80-year-old Palestinian-American died after being detained by IDF soldiers in the West Bank. He was reportedly bound, gagged, and left unresponsive. The IDF admitted to misconduct, and commanding officers were reprimanded or dismissed.
• Thawarat Ashrawi (2015): A 72-year-old Palestinian woman was shot dead near Halhul. The IDF claimed she attempted a car-ramming attack, but her family contested this account.
• Fatima Mohammad Hassan Abeid (2002): A 95-year-old woman was shot near Ramallah. Witnesses claimed IDF troops fired at her vehicle, while the IDF stated it was a response to a road closure violation.
3. IDF Accountability:
• In some cases, the IDF has acknowledged errors and taken disciplinary actions. However, these responses have often been deemed insufficient by critics.
4. Human Rights Concerns:
• The deaths of elderly civilians highlight ongoing tensions between military operations and the protection of vulnerable populations in conflict zones.
5. Call for Reforms:
• These incidents have prompted calls for stricter adherence to international humanitarian law and improved engagement rules to prevent harm to civilians.
In conclusion, the tragic deaths of elderly individuals in IDF operations underscore the urgent need for stronger safeguards to protect civilians in conflict zones. While the IDF has acknowledged and addressed some cases of misconduct, these incidents reveal gaps in operational protocols and accountability measures. Moving forward, a renewed commitment to international humanitarian law, transparency, and engagement reforms is essential to prevent further harm and restore trust in military operations. The lives of the most vulnerable, including the elderly, must remain a priority in any conflict setting.
Attached is a news article regarding a 80 years old women shot by IDF forces
Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley
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