Correcting the Record

There is a unique responsibility that comes with representing a military like the IDF to the world. Every word carries weight. Every statement echoes not just into headlines or the halls of governments but into living rooms, and to those who rely on our word. I don’t take that lightly. 

On March 23, our troops were conducting a vital mission aimed at targeting terrorists. Earlier in the evening, the troops fired at a vehicle that in their perspective was identified as a Hamas vehicle. Following this, the troops remained on high alert for further potential threats. 

Throughout the mission, vehicles and ambulances moved along the route without obstruction, since the forces did not perceive any threat posed by them.

Approximately an hour later, surveillance identified  a convoy of vehicles approaching the forces; the forces, believing these were terrorists and after their quick disembark from the vehicles, decided to open fire as they were perceived as a threat to the troops. 

Initial reports on the incident were based on real-time updates from the forces on the ground. The IDF is built on a foundational culture of trust in the operational reports provided through the chain of command – a trust that comes with the expectation of the highest standards of accuracy, responsibility, and truthfulness from those providing the information. 

As we do in every event that requires, we conducted a thorough examination, including one conducted by the General Staff Fact Finding and Assessment Mechanism, independent from the chain of command. The examination identified several professional failures, breaches of orders, and a failure to fully report the incident.

Our soldiers serve in some of the most complex and high-pressure environments imaginable. In the midst of combat, decisions must be made in real time, under constant threat and extreme stress while also confronting Hamas' repeated use of such infrastructure for terrorism, including using ambulances to transport terrorists and weapons. Although this context helps explain how such an event could occur, it does not excuse it. 

As I mentioned, because we place such trust in our forces, we also expect them to uphold the highest standards—and when those standards are not met, we are obligated to take it

seriously and act accordingly. We have held accountable those responsible – both for the incident and the inaccurate report.  

The examination has led to multiple reprimands - the brigade commander received a command remark, which will be recorded in his personal file, due to his overall responsibility for the incident, including the battle procedure and the management of the incident following the event, and the deputy commander will be dismissed from his position due to his responsibilities as the field commander in this incident and for providing an incomplete and inaccurate report during the debrief.

Nevertheless, as an IDF spokesperson it is my duty to provide honest, accurate information – especially in moments of tragedy or complexity. That responsibility weighs heavily, because I know people around the world rely on my words. There was never any intent to mislead or deceive the public, but I understand that intent is not enough – accuracy matters, and we fell short. 

As an army whose foundation is built upon ethical principles it is of utmost importance to us that we show transparency and take action when we falter. This is the true test of a moral military, when mistakes are made, they are investigated thoroughly, lessons are learned, and accountability is upheld, as was done in this event. 

Till next time, 

LTC Nadav Shoshani