Israel investigates after its soldiers filmed throwing bodies off roof

Israel’s military has initiated an investigation following the release of footage showing soldiers disposing of the bodies of three deceased Palestinians from a rooftop during a raid in the occupied West Bank. The incident occurred in Qabatiya, a town located near Jenin, where an Israeli military bulldozer was later seen removing the bodies.

The footage has ignited significant outrage both locally and internationally. In a statement on Friday, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) acknowledged the seriousness of the incident, asserting that it did not align with the values and standards expected of its soldiers.

Local Palestinian authorities reported that at least seven individuals were killed during the military operation in Qabatiya on Thursday. Under international law, military personnel are required to treat the bodies of deceased individuals, including those of combatants, with dignity and respect.

The IDF stated that the operation was part of a counterterrorism effort, during which four militants were reportedly killed in an exchange of gunfire. Additionally, three others lost their lives due to a drone strike targeting their vehicle.

A journalist present in Qabatiya recounted the events, explaining that Israeli forces had surrounded a building in the area early Thursday morning. According to his account, four men who were inside the building fled to the rooftop, where they were subsequently shot by snipers.

Once the fighting subsided, the journalist observed Israeli troops ascend to the rooftop and dispose of the bodies by dropping them over the side, where they were then collected by a bulldozer.

In response to the footage, the IDF reiterated its position, stating, “This is a serious incident that does not conform with [our] values and the expectations from IDF soldiers. The incident is under review.”

The military also identified one of the deceased as Shadi Zakarneh, alleging that he was responsible for orchestrating attacks in the northern West Bank and was purportedly the leader of a terrorist organization operating in Qabatiya, though the specific group was not named.

The Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the incident on social media, labeling it a “crime” that reveals the “brutality” of the Israeli military.

White House national security spokesperson John Kirby described the footage as “deeply disturbing,” emphasizing that if the authenticity of the video is confirmed, it would depict “abhorrent and egregious behavior” by professional soldiers.

Tensions have escalated in the West Bank following the attack by Hamas on Israel on October 7 and the subsequent military actions in Gaza. The Palestinian health ministry reports that over 690 Palestinians have died in the West Bank during this period, as Israeli forces have intensified their operations aimed at curtailing attacks.

Israel claims its military actions are necessary to prevent further assaults, citing that at least 33 Israelis have been killed as a result of violence in the region. In Gaza, the situation has been dire, with the Hamas-run health ministry reporting over 41,000 Palestinian fatalities due to Israeli military operations.

The unfolding events have drawn international scrutiny, with various organizations and governments calling for accountability and adherence to humanitarian laws during military operations. The ongoing conflict continues to result in tragic losses on both sides, underscoring the urgency for dialogue and peaceful resolution.

As investigations proceed, the focus remains on how such incidents reflect broader issues of conduct within military operations and the treatment of casualties in conflict zones.