US presses Israel to probe allegations troops using Gazans as human shields in explosive tests

US State Department spokesperson Vedant Patel brands as “very disturbing” a recent report that the IDF has been using Palestinian civilians as guinea pigs to test for hidden explosives, sending them first into tunnels and buildings it fears might be booby-trapped.

“We would urge Israel to immediately and transparently investigate these allegations and hold any potential perpetrators accountable,” Patel says when asked about a Haaretz report that included the claim, which the Israel Defense Forces did not deny.

“Israel has a responsibility to comply with its obligations under international humanitarian law, but I also just want to stress that they are just reports at this point, and that is why we would encourage Israel to look into [these allegations],” he adds.