This short clip depicts a Hamas drone dropping ordinance on an Israeli ambulance and personnel, downing one of the soldiers next to it. Viewer discretion is advised.

Today, 7 October, 2023, Israeli Prime Minsiter Benjamin Netanyahu formally declared war as Hamas launched a multi-faceted attack on Israel, which has included rocket barrages, infiltrations, paraglider attacks and drone bombings such as this one. Reminiscent of footage from Ukraine or Myanmar, we see the drone loitering above a target vehicle and dropping its payload on the vehicle and soldiers below. Where this differs from those conflicts is the target chosen. While it isn't explicitly clear whether the IDF troops are medics or crewing the ambulance, it is noted that attacking ambulances is considered a war crime, as mentioned in the BMJ Health Journal (source here).

After the initial strike, we see the attack again, slowed. The leftmost soldier flees to the other side of a neighboring vehicle as the soldier next to the downed troop retreats to a nearby armored truck at top of frame. The leftmost soldier then buddy-drags the casualty to the armored vehicle. In a scene we've seen play out so often in drone bombings, just a foot or two of space can make the difference between surviving or becoming a casualty. The drone then descends, and this angle makes it absolutely clear that it's an ambulance.

About the Author

Cole Simms

Cole Simms is an Air Guardsman, NASA enthusiast, police officer, and security contractor with particular experience in austere environments. Outside of work, he volunteers as a Stop The Bleed instructor for area schools. He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Homeland Security and Emergency Management, and blends his knowledge and experience to write analysis for Funker530.

Need a tried-and-tested fixed blade that's trusted by police, military and protective service users all over the world? Cole recommends Ironside Edge Works for your tactical or EDC blade needs.