Cliff Notes
- The Israeli government maintains that it is conducting a “thorough” investigation into the shooting of 15 aid workers by its forces, asserting that the Israel Defense Forces acted against a convoy perceived as suspicious.
- While the IDF claims that six of the deceased were identified as Hamas terrorists, calls for an independent investigation into the incident have been made by the Palestine Red Crescent Society.
- The Israeli spokesman rejected accusations of censorship after two Labour MPs were denied entry to Israel, asserting that their intent was to promote a boycott against the country.
Israel says it has ‘nothing to hide’ over fatal shooting of emergency workers
The Israeli military has “nothing to hide” and is “thoroughly” investigating the fatal shooting of aid workers by its forces in Gaza, an Israeli government spokesman has told Sky News.
David Mencer said the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) opened fire “from a distance” at a convoy that was “moving suspiciously in their direction” on 23 March.
Fifteen emergency workers were killed in the incident near the southern city of Rafah.
When asked by Sky’s Mark Austin on the News Hour why Israel is not allowing an independent investigation into the shooting, Mr Mencer said: “Israel is not afraid of anything.
“It’s not the first time that Hamas has used ambulances to smuggle terrorists.
“It’s a matter of public record.”
Asked whether the IDF had any evidence any of those in the convoy were Hamas terrorists before they opened fire, Mr Mencer replied: “Our investigation is taking place right now. It’s going to be very thorough… We have nothing to hide whatsoever.”
When asked the question again, Mr Mencer said: “Emergency vehicles should be used to save lives. Hamas has turned them into getaway cars for killers.”
Additional sources
Israel says it has ‘nothing to hide’ over fatal shooting of emergency workers – Sky News
Israel says it has ‘nothing to hide’ over fatal shooting of emergency workers – MSN
Labour MPs back Corbyn calls for Chilcot-style inquiry into UK’s role in Gaza war – Fosse 107