IOF says one soldier killed with Apache 'friendly fire' in Gaza

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Israeli media
8 Dec 2023 12:31
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Israeli media reports that an Apache combat helicopter mistakenly targeted the wrong building after support was requested from ground forces in Gaza.

An Israeli Air Force AH-64 Apache attack helicopter releases flares during a raid on Jenin in the occupied West Bank on June 19, 2023. (AFP)

An Israeli helicopter "mistakenly" targeted a building with Israeli troops inside, resulting in the death of one soldier, Israeli media reported.

As per Israeli media reports, Israeli ground forces sought air support following the "identification of a group of Hamas fighters nearby."

However, an Apache combat helicopter, responding to the request, mistakenly targeted the wrong building due to misdirected ground fire by the soldiers.

In the same context, a report published on the Israeli news website Haaretz, on November 21, discussed several incidents of "friendly fire" among Israeli occupation forces that have resulted in casualties during the ongoing ground offensive against the Gaza Strip.

This comes as the Palestinian Resistance in Gaza continues to confront Israeli occupation forces advancing into the Gaza Strip, inflicting significant human and material losses.

Israeli military forcing hospitals to cover losses: Israeli media

Israeli media reported, on Thursday, that the Israeli military spokesperson has imposed new restrictions related to reporting on casualties in the war, including coercing hospitals against announcing the arrival of wounded or dead personnel unless permitted by the army.

The aim is to control the timing of information release at times convenient for the military, Walla! said in its publication.

Hospital representatives commented, "The military spokesperson [Brig. Gen. Daniel Hagari] has taken on the role of national morale delegate, with our primary responsibility being towards those receiving treatment."

Meanwhile, hospital spokespersons are now required to "present the content of their statement to the military spokesperson's representative permanently stationed in the hospital for quick approval before publication."