Israel opens criminal probes into Gaza killings as UN condemns far‑right rhetoric
The Israeli Defence Forces have opened internal criminal inquiries into two high‑profile Gaza incidents, while the UN denounces inflammatory statements from a far‑right minister.
Israel Defence Forces announced on Wednesday that it will conduct criminal investigations into the killing of five‑year‑old Hind Rajab and her family in January 2024, as well as the death of fifteen Palestinian paramedics and rescue volunteers in March 2025. The move marks the first time the army has opened formal probes into its own conduct during the protracted Gaza conflict.
The investigations were triggered after the army’s Fact‑Finding and Assessment Mechanism flagged the incidents for further scrutiny. Officials said the probes will examine whether any soldiers breached the rules of engagement or international humanitarian law.
International reaction has been swift. Itamar Ben‑Gvir, Israel’s far‑right National Security Minister, sparked outrage earlier this week by suggesting that Israel should kill "30 or 40" people each night in Gaza. Antonio Guterres condemned the comments as "inhumane" and warned they could fuel further violence.
European leaders echoed the UN’s concerns. France’s foreign minister called Ben‑Gvir’s remarks "intolerable and inhumane", while Germany’s chancellor described them as a violation of international law and hinted at possible sanctions at the EU level.
Beyond the diplomatic fallout, the probes could affect Israel’s legal exposure. Should the investigations uncover evidence of unlawful killings, they may lead to military courts proceedings or civil lawsuits, potentially reshaping the narrative around the Gaza war and influencing public opinion worldwide.
At the same time, the Middle East remains volatile. In occupied southern Syria, Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir warned that Israeli forces will not allow hostile groups to establish footholds along the border, following a recent air strike on a Syrian base near the Turkish frontier.
Turkey rebuked Israel’s claims that Damascus was permitting Turkish troops to operate near the Abu al‑Duhur air base, describing the allegations as "untenable". Meanwhile, oil markets reacted to uncertainty in the Strait of Hormuz, with Brent crude climbing to a three‑week high as shipping disruptions persisted.
Analysts say the combination of internal investigations, diplomatic censure, and ongoing security operations could pressure Israel to adjust its rules of engagement and diplomatic posture. The outcome of the criminal probes may also influence future negotiations on humanitarian access and cease‑fire arrangements in Gaza.
For now, the Israeli military says the investigations are part of its commitment to “intensive combat across numerous fronts” while adhering to legal standards. The international community will be watching closely to see whether the probes translate into concrete accountability.