Mobile phone footage has emerged that seems to challenge the Israeli narrative concerning the tragic deaths of 15 emergency workers in Gaza during an incident last month. Filmed by a Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS) paramedic, the video indicates that ambulances and a fire truck were clearly identifiable and had their emergency lights flashing when they came under fire early on March 23.
Initial reports from the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stated that "uncoordinated vehicles" approached them suspiciously, prompting the attack. However, a surviving paramedic told the BBC that the vehicles were obviously marked and their lights were activated. The recently released video shows the rescue vehicles halting at the roadside, lighting unchanged, as emergency workers exited.
The footage, found on the phone of one of the deceased paramedics, captures moments before the gunfire erupted, with the individual reportedly expressing prayers amid the chaos. The bodies of the responders were later discovered buried, having sparked widespread calls for accountability from international organizations.
Israel's Foreign Minister reiterated the military's stance, insisting the IDF doesn't attack ambulances randomly. However, the IDF has promised to investigate further after challenges to their statement by witnesses. Surviving paramedic Munther Abed emphasized that their sole purpose was providing medical aid, rejecting any militant ties.
Dr. Younis Al-Khatib, President of the PRCS, poignantly recalled the last words of a fallen team member and urged for an independent investigation into what he calls an "atrocious crime." One paramedic from that fateful day remains unaccounted for.
