The IDF’s use of Palestinian civilians as human shields in arresting wanted terrorists was ruled contrary to international law by a Supreme Court lineup led by court president Aharon Barak. According to the practice, a terrorist’s neighbor knocks on his door and asks him to come out to face arrest, on the assumption that he will not shoot a fellow-Palestinian and come quietly. Military sources note international war laws are outdated, drawn up in the days of conventional combat between armies and totally irrelevant for the war on terror.

They warn that the practice developed by the Israeli army saves military and civilian lives by frequently averting shoot-outs in the environment of wanted terrorists. Commanders must henceforth think twice before carrying out raids to detain wanted men, including ticking bombs.

This entry was posted on Monday, October 10th, 2005 and is filed under news. You can leave a response.