Israeli Soldiers Ordered to Fire on Gazans Seeking Aid
A recent investigation details how Israeli forces allegedly targeted unarmed Palestinians attempting to access humanitarian aid, turning distribution zones into killing fields. This occurred amid a severe humanitarian crisis, raising serious concerns about the treatment of civilians in conflict zones.
Military Conduct Under Scrutiny
According to an exposé, Israeli soldiers admitted to opening fire on civilians at food distribution sites within Gaza. Interviews with military personnel reveal a pattern of live ammunition use against individuals seeking aid. One soldier described the area as a “killing field,” emphasizing the routine nature of the violence.
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“Where I was stationed, between one and five people were killed every day. They’re treated like a hostile force – no crowd-control measures, no tear gas – just live fire with everything imaginable: heavy machine guns, grenade launchers, mortars.”
—Unidentified Soldier
A UN report indicates that over 1.7 million people in Gaza are facing severe levels of food insecurity (UN OCHA, 2025), highlighting the desperation driving civilians to aid distribution points.
Orders to Shoot
Soldiers reportedly received orders to fire on Palestinians approaching aid sites, even when no apparent threat existed. This practice, referred to as “Operation Salted Fish” by some soldiers, involved firing warning shots or direct fire, often resulting in casualties. These actions have resulted in a pattern of fire and ceasefires around aid centers, creating a deadly environment.
Leadership and Responsibility
The investigation highlights the role of key figures, including Brigadier General Yehuda Vach, who allegedly ordered the direct firing on Palestinians. Testimonies suggest that this practice has become normalized within the ranks, with officers and soldiers seemingly accepting the policy without question. Contractors are also implicated, with financial incentives potentially fueling the violence.
These revelations paint a picture of systemic dehumanization and raise urgent questions about accountability. The Israeli army’s response has been to deny claims and shift blame. However, testimonies from soldiers reveal a disturbing reality.
