More on the Palestinian use of child soldiers. An article from Ha'aretz describes the difficulties the IDF is having in Nablus. How do you deal with 8 year-old Molotov cocktail throwers?
When the IDF started its operation in Nablus, officers noted that its success would be measured partly by its ability to avert causing harm to civilians. A previous IDF operation carried out by the Golani Brigade in Jenin was, by this criterion, a clear-cut success. During 17 days of IDF activity in Jenin, just one Palestinian was killed - a top terror suspect, Iyad Swalha. Nablus, however, is a completely different story. Virtually from the operation's first hours, Paratroopers have faced stormy, violent demonstrations involving hundreds of young people. Often, these demonstrations are a springboard to gunfire incidents. Two Palestinian teenagers were killed by IDF fire during such skirmishes, and two days ago a boy (either 8 or 11 years old - there are two different versions of his age) was also killed in Nablus.
For the first time in the West Bank, Nablus has displayed a phenomenon which had been seen only at Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip. Children are not content to stop at stone throwing; they also use Molotov cocktails, makeshift hand grenades and even small bombs. Children even climb atop IDF fortified vehicles and vandalize equipment which they carry, such as stretchers. These forays are filmed by television cameras.
In a talk last week with IDF Central Commander Maj. Gen. Moshe Kaplinski, Lt. Col. Shmuel said his soldiers have the authority to "take down" (hit with gunfire) Molotov cocktail throwers. Asked why he doesn't do so, if this is the case, Shmuel replied, "Because I don't want to kill 8 year olds."
Paratroopers, in fact, refrain from opening fire against young Palestinians. In fact, the IDF has invested extensive effort, thought and monitoring into avoiding lethal gunfire skirmishes provoked by young Palestinian rock throwers.
That said, the IDF does need to reevaluate some of its rules of engagement. For instance, procedures governing gunfire responses to Molotov cocktail throwers who are surrounded by groups of children need to be reconsidered.
haaretz.com |
