Legal expert Anis Qassem has condemned Israel’s use of Palestinians as human shields, calling it a crime under international law and a reflection of the occupation’s racist and colonial mindset. Qassem emphasised that such practices are not new but are deeply rooted in Israel’s systematic violation of Palestinian rights.  

“These actions reveal the barbaric treatment by Israeli forces, supported by statements from officials like the Defence Minister, who described Palestinians as ‘human animals’,” Qassem said. He stressed that these violations place significant legal responsibility on Israel before the International Criminal Court (ICC).  

Qassem’s remarks follow a shocking admission by an Israeli soldier, who revealed that the army used Palestinians as human shields at least six times daily during its assault on Gaza. The soldier described the “mosquito” procedure, where civilians were forced to enter homes and tunnels to check for militants or explosives.  

“I informed senior officials about this practice over a year ago, but no action was taken. It was labelled an ‘operational necessity’,” the soldier said. He warned that Israel should be concerned about the ICC, as the use of human shields is a widely recognised crime.  

On 21 November 2024, the ICC issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, accusing them of war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza. Meanwhile, the International Court of Justice is considering a case brought by South Africa, accusing Israel of genocide against Palestinians.  

Qassem and the soldier’s testimonies underscore the urgent need for accountability, as Israel’s actions continue to violate international law and perpetuate the suffering of Palestinians.