Article Summary: Medical Testimonies Document Pattern of Children Shot by Israeli Forces in Gaza
Nine doctors, mostly foreign volunteers, provided testimonies to The Guardian about treating Palestinian children with gunshot wounds in Gaza hospitals during the current war. The physicians reported a disturbing pattern of children arriving with single bullet wounds to the head, chest, and abdomen – injuries they believe indicate deliberate targeting rather than random fire.
Dr. Fozia Alvi described treating two boys, ages 7-8, with “sniper shots to the brain” who were left paraplegic. Dr. Vanita Gupta witnessed three children shot in the head in quick succession, with families reporting they were together in the street when fired upon with no combat nearby. Dr. Thaer Ahmad treated five children he believes were deliberately targeted by snipers, noting the precise bullet placement.
The doctors documented a new threat: armed quadcopter drones that hover over areas and shoot civilians with single high-velocity rounds. These drones have reportedly killed multiple children and elderly people.
Medical professionals emphasized the devastating damage caused by high-caliber bullets to small bodies, often resulting in amputations and permanent disabilities. They stressed that the vast majority of victims were clearly non-combatants, including elderly people shot while fleeing or seeking medical care.
The testimonies suggest systematic targeting of Palestinian civilians, contradicting Israeli military claims of precision and adherence to international law.