Israeli soldier reveals routine use of Palestinian 'human shields' and 'slaves' in Gaza

A former Israeli soldier who served in Gaza for nine months has admitted that the army routinely forces Palestinians to act as human shields, a practice referred to as the "mosquito protocol."

Writing anonymously for the Israeli newspaper Haaretz, the soldier described how the use of so-called "shawishes"—Palestinians forced to clear homes before soldiers enter—became widespread within infantry units.

He said that every platoon now has at least one, with entire brigades effectively running a "sub-army of slaves."

The shocking admission underscores what rights groups have long alleged—Israel systematically violates international law in its military operations in Gaza.