Eyewitness Accounts of Sniper Drones in Gaza: Civilian Impact and Military Response

Eyewitness Accounts of Sniper Drones in Gaza: Civilian Impact and Military Response

November 26, 2024 Catherine Williams - Chief Editor World

Israeli Airstrikes and Sniper Drones in Gaza

Palestinians face constant danger in Gaza due to ongoing Israeli airstrikes and drone attacks. Many residents report living in fear as Israeli forces bombard their neighborhoods. Fatma Daama, a 37-year-old Palestinian in Jabalia, shares her experience as tanks close in, and drones hover above.

These drones, known as “quadcopter” drones, are armed and can shoot single bullets. Eyewitness accounts reveal that these drones have targeted civilians, including those attempting to help victims after airstrikes. Adeeb Shaqfa recalls losing his son when a drone shot him while he was walking in Rafah.

The Israeli military denies targeting civilians and claims its operations adhere to international law. However, numerous eyewitnesses and medical professionals report a high number of injuries and deaths caused by these sniper drones. Dr. Nizam Mamode highlighted this issue in testimony, stating that many of his patients were shot while lying on the ground.

Reports from various individuals reveal similar patterns:

  • In Beit Lahiya, attack survivors described being shot at while they tried to retrieve bodies from rubble.
  • Dr. Ghassan Abu Sitta witnessed drone attacks on individuals entering a hospital.
  • Dr. Mimi Syed treated multiple pediatric patients with wounds inflicted by sniper drones.

The Israeli military is scrutinized for its use of sniper drone technology; although it has not officially acknowledged this, videos and reports suggest its existence. Companies like Duke Robotics and Smartshooter market drones designed specifically for such use. The TIKAD and Smash Dragon drones can fire while hovering.

Hospitals in Gaza, such as Nasser Hospital, treat many victims of these drone attacks. Dr. Ahmad Moghrabi described the specific sound made by these drones and shared experiences of treating injured patients, including hospital staff.

Experts warn that this technology may change warfare significantly. As drones become more common, they reduce human oversight in combat decisions, raising concerns about civilian safety.

Weaponized drones are now integral to modern warfare, challenging the norms of how conflicts are fought and how lives are impacted.