An investigation by The Washington Post has uncovered more than 120 photos and videos posted by Israeli soldiers during military operations in Gaza, reportedly revealing a pattern of destruction and celebratory behavior that has raised concerns about conduct during the conflict.
The footage, posted between October 2023 and October 2024, allegedly shows soldiers demolishing buildings, setting fires, and in some cases celebrating the destruction. According to The Washington Post, in one instance, reservists recorded themselves firing a "farewell barrage" into a residential area as they withdrew from northern Gaza.
"It's a breakdown of not just military discipline, but a break in understanding what it takes to represent the IDF and Israel," Asa Kasher, who helped author the IDF Code of Ethics and reviewed the videos for The Post, said.
"There is at times a military necessity to operate in buildings where the terrorist organization has placed its infrastructure," the IDF told The Post. "The burning of buildings without a military necessity is contrary to the IDF orders and the values of the IDF." The IDF further added that "allegations of conduct that do not fall within IDF-approved directives and protocols will be reviewed."
Several soldiers interviewed by The Post reportedly expressed discomfort with their colleagues' actions. A military medic deployed to Khan Younis described encountering soldiers motivated by religious fervor or desire for revenge, particularly those who had known victims of the Oct. 7, 2023 Hamas attack.
Legal experts reviewing the footage reportedly raised concerns about possible violations of international humanitarian law, particularly regarding the destruction of civilian infrastructure. Questions about proportionality in the military campaign were also highlighted.
According to The Post, some soldiers defended their actions. "I took these videos to raise the morale of the people at home, and I don't regret it for a moment," a soldier who allegedly posted numerous videos before being instructed to stop by the army, told the newspaper.
The Post noted the investigation verified the authenticity of the videos through analysis of locations, uniforms, equipment, and cross-referencing with official IDF operational reports.
