Israeli forces accused of using elderly Palestinians as human shields

Palestinian journalist Younis Tirawi has released images alleging that Israeli forces used two elderly men, identified as Nadi Marouf and Ali Marouf, as human shields in Gaza. The report claims the men were detained by the 92nd battalion of the Kfir brigade in Beit Lahia in November 2024 and used for several days to inspect tunnels for explosives before being killed.

The Israeli military stated in May 2025 that it was investigating various cases of this nature and maintained that using Palestinians as human shields or coercing them into dangerous military operations is strictly prohibited.

Separately, the Palestinian Prison Service (PPS) has denounced Israeli Minister of National Security Itamar Ben Gvir's policy of banning family visits to Palestinian detainees, stating the move aims to impose total isolation and increases the risk of abuse. Additionally, Gaza's Ministry of Health has called for urgent medical intervention for detained doctor Hussam Abu Safia, whose health is reportedly in critical condition.