Israeli military launches criminal probe into Gaza child's death

The Israeli military has launched a criminal investigation into the death of 5-year-old Hind Rajab in Gaza, a case that drew international condemnation after a recording of her desperate calls to rescuers was released. Rajab was among seven family members in a vehicle hit by Israeli fire in Gaza City in January. She initially survived the attack that killed several relatives. Her body was found days later with those of her relatives and two medics who attempted a rescue. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) stated that "after reviewing the findings" and due to "potential failures in the coordination of the Palestinian Red Crescent ambulance movement," a criminal investigation by the Military Police was initiated. This marks the first time the IDF has admitted firing on the vehicle carrying Rajab and her family. Previously, the IDF's initial investigation suggested no Israeli troops were in the area at the time. The car was struck while the family attempted to escape the war's bombing. Rajab's calls for help to rescuers lasted for hours before being cut off amid new shelling. The ambulance dispatched to reach her was also fired upon, and the bodies were discovered later.