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Israel Loosens Military Rules, Allowing Up to 20 Civilian Deaths per Strike in Gaza Following October 7 Attacks

Dec 29, 2024, 04:38 PM

A recent investigation by the New York Times reveals that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have relaxed their operational rules regarding strikes against Hamas following the October 7 attacks. This change reportedly allows for higher civilian casualties, permitting the targeting of rank-and-file fighters even in civilian settings. The new protocols enable the IDF to accept the risk of up to 20 civilian deaths per strike. Critics argue that this shift in military protocol has led to a tragic increase in civilian casualties, with soldiers being prohibited from discussing these changes, fostering a culture of impunity. Additionally, the IDF has been utilizing artificial intelligence in warfare, raising ethical concerns about the decision-making processes on the battlefield. Reports indicate that years before the current conflict, Israel had transformed its intelligence unit into an AI testing ground, which critics say has contributed to the rising death toll in Gaza.