BBC Verify conducted an analysis of Israeli military investigations into allegations of civilian harm across multiple regions. Using artificial intelligence tools to process over 60,000 news reports, researchers identified 300 cases in which the Israeli Defense Forces stated it was conducting investigations. Of these, only 28 had publicly available outcomes posted on official channels, while 18 additional cases had unclear investigative status.
The incidents examined occurred between October 2023 and August 2026 across Gaza, the West Bank, Lebanon, and Israel. The geographic distribution showed 158 cases in Gaza, 48 in the West Bank, 32 in Lebanon, and 16 in Israel or IDF detention facilities. At least 200 of the incidents resulted in reported deaths. Some cases date back to late 2023, including a strike on a school building in Gaza in August 2024 that resulted in at least 93 reported fatalities.
The IDF stated it takes all allegations seriously and investigates through various mechanisms, including command-level operational reviews designed to establish facts and identify lessons. The military indicated it considers legal, operational, privacy, and security factors when determining what information to release publicly. The IDF also reported taking disciplinary action in dozens of cases against soldiers, including removal from combat and reserve positions.
International humanitarian law experts noted that the Geneva Conventions require parties to armed conflicts to investigate and potentially prosecute violations promptly, thoroughly, and impartially. The International Committee of the Red Cross publishes guidelines emphasizing investigation transparency. A researcher from an Israeli human rights organization monitoring military investigations since 2006 suggested that prolonged investigation timelines may reduce public attention to cases. The IDF did not provide a detailed breakdown of the 300 cases’ status despite multiple requests from BBC Verify.
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