The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced Wednesday that it is launching criminal investigations into two separate attacks against Palestinians that occurred during the ongoing conflict in Gaza. One of these investigations will focus on an incident in February 2024 that resulted in the deaths of a five-year-old girl, Hind Rajab, and five members of her family.

The IDF stated that it examines exceptional incidents that occur during combat as part of its obligations under international and domestic Israeli law. The Fact-Finding and Assessment Mechanism within the IDF has reviewed approximately 150 incidents since the war began in October 2023, referring five of these cases to the Military Prosecution for further examination and decision-making.

The second investigation concerns an attack that led to the killing of 15 Palestinian paramedics in 2025. Details surrounding the circumstances of this incident have not been fully disclosed, but it is now subject to a criminal probe.

These investigations come amid heightened international scrutiny of actions during the war. The death of Hind Rajab gained significant attention in early 2024 after her distress calls to a Palestinian Red Crescent Society dispatcher were widely shared. The dispatcher attempted to comfort the child while an ambulance was dispatched, but it never reached her. Tragically, Hind and her family were found dead after their vehicle came under fire while attempting to evacuate Gaza City.

The IDF's Fact-Finding and Assessment Mechanism is responsible for reviewing incidents that deviate from standard operational procedures or raise concerns regarding potential violations of the laws of armed conflict. Its findings are then passed to the Military Prosecution, which decides whether to pursue criminal charges or other disciplinary actions.

Since the commencement of the current conflict, the IDF has stated that it has completed reviews of numerous incidents. The process involves gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and assessing the actions of military personnel against legal frameworks.

The decision to launch criminal investigations signals a commitment by the IDF to address alleged wrongdoings and uphold accountability, even in the midst of active combat operations. The outcomes of these probes are expected to be closely watched by human rights organizations and the international community.

Questions remain regarding the specific timelines for these investigations, the potential disciplinary measures or prosecutions that may result, and the broader implications for the IDF's adherence to international humanitarian law.