The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) has been using Palestinian civilians as human shields during operations in Gaza, according to a report by Haaretz. The report said these ‘human defenders’ are ordered to go into tunnels and homes that the IDF fears may be booby-trapped.The routine use of civilians, including children and the elderly, as human shields by the IDF is a breach of the international law. The Haaretz report indicates that the practice is carried out with the knowledge of top Israeli military leaders, including the chief of staff.The report cited several soldiers who have witnessed the tactic regularly used in Gaza by the IDF.
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