The Military Advocate ordered the opening of more than twenty criminal investigations Since the conclusion of Operation Cast Lead, the IDF has received petitions from various sources – private attorneys, human rights organizations (both Israeli and foreign), and news outlets (both Israeli and foreign) – that have raised various claims regarding the conduct of IDF forces during the course of Operation Cast Lead. The IDF is studying the petitions on their respective merits, in accordance with the IDF’s policy on investigations, which has also been stated before the High Court of Justice. Within the framework of these petitions, the Military Advocate General has ordered the opening of more than twenty criminal investigations into claims of violence against detainees, looting, and the use of Palestinian civilians as human shields. In addition, criminal investigations have been opened following petitions in which particularly severe claims of IDF fire directed towards civilians, including individuals waving white flags. In accordance with standard practice, the investigations are overseen by the Military Advocate General’s Corps, which will study the findings and issue recommendations regarding further action on each of the cases. The IDF will continue to investigate every credible claim of illegal conduct on the part of our forces during the course of Operation Cast Lead, in accordance with out commitment to international law in general and to the laws of war in particular.