Human Rights & Public Liberties

Human Rights & Public Liberties

Newsletter
13 Jan, 2021

Ambush on Aid, Forensic Audio Links Bullets to Red Crescent Deaths in Tal al‑Sultan

25 February, 2026

A joint inquiry by Forensic Architecture and Earshot, published via Drop Site News, concluded that Israeli forces fired more than 900 bullets at a clearly marked convoy of emergency workers in Tal al‑Sultan on 23 March 2025, killing 15 aid personnel including eight Palestine Red Crescent Society members and six Civil Defence workers; the study used audio analysis, video, satellite imagery, and survivor testimony to allege that some victims were shot at close range, even within one metre (Forensic Architecture / Earshot report, published on Drop Site News, date published online).

The findings amplify allegations that humanitarian workers, who are protected under international law, were deliberately targeted.

Israeli authorities have disputed aspects of earlier accusations; the new multimodal forensic work strengthens calls for independent investigations. If corroborated, the attack would constitute grave breaches of international humanitarian law, including possible war crimes for deliberately targeting aid workers. The report underscores the need for immediate, impartial inquiries with subpoena power, forensic access, and protection for witnesses, plus prosecutions where warranted.

Beyond legal action, the incident has operational consequences: aid organisations face untenable risk calculations while Gaza’s needs remain acute. Donors and UN bodies should demand transparent criminal probes and strengthen measures to protect humanitarian personnel and preserve life‑saving operations (Forensic Architecture, Earshot, Drop Site News, March 2025; follow‑up calls for investigation, 2026).

Sources: Forensic Architecture and Earshot joint investigation, published on Drop Site News; reporting and survivor testimony, March 2025–2026.