Sun Apr 20 21:10:30 UTC 2025: ## Israeli Probe Clears Soldiers in Killing of 15 Palestinian Paramedics; Outrage Ensues

**Gaza City, Occupied Palestinian Territories** – The Israeli military’s investigation into the killing of 15 Palestinian paramedics and aid workers in Gaza last month has concluded that no violations of its code of ethics occurred. The report, released Sunday, resulted in only one soldier’s dismissal and sparked immediate outrage from Palestinian authorities and human rights groups.

The investigation, which found “no evidence” of executions, attributed the deaths to “professional failures” by commanding officers, citing inaccurate reporting of the incident in Rafah. One deputy commander will be dismissed, and another officer will receive a reprimand. The Israeli army also controversially claimed six of the victims were Hamas terrorists, offering no evidence to support this assertion.

The Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS), which lost medics in the incident, vehemently rejected the findings, calling the report “full of lies” and demanding an independent UN investigation. PRCS President Younis al-Khatib highlighted contradictory statements in the Israeli narrative and cited video evidence showing clearly marked ambulances with flashing lights, contradicting claims of limited visibility. The PRCS also confirmed that one of its missing medics is being held by Israeli authorities.

The Israeli human rights group Breaking the Silence echoed these criticisms, describing the report as riddled with contradictions and a cover-up. Conversely, Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir criticized the dismissal of the deputy commander, calling it a “grave mistake.”

The New York Times obtained a mobile phone video from one of the deceased aid workers, seemingly corroborating the PRCS’s claims of clear markings and sustained Israeli fire. The UN, which previously accused the Israeli military of responsibility for the killings, has significantly reduced its staff in Gaza due to the ongoing conflict.

International legal experts have also expressed skepticism, questioning the thoroughness of the Israeli investigation and the lack of evidence presented regarding the alleged Hamas affiliation of some victims. The incident underscores the ongoing tensions and lack of accountability surrounding the conflict in Gaza.

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