The IDF is investigating a serious friendly fire incident during the Gaza fighting in which a tank commander ordered his squad to fire toward another Israeli tank several kilometers away. No one was injured in the potentially disastrous episode.
According to Haaretz, the officer, serving in the 7th Armored Brigade, was inside the Gaza Strip when he fired eastward, or back toward Israel, despite the fact that the fighting was taking place in the opposite direction. In all, his tank fired four shells, none of which hit the tank positioned near where they landed.
The investigation is being carried out by the 36th Division, to which the 7th Brigade belongs. The officer is expected to receive a severe punishment.
In all, there were 15 friendly-fire incidents in Operation Protective Edge, in which five soldiers were killed and 23 injured.
Israeli tank near the Israel-Gaza border Friday, July 25, 2014. (AP/Dusan Vranic)
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