Israel says airstrike-hit ambulance was Hamas front

The Israeli Defense Force on Saturday said its aircraft had intentionally fired at an ambulance that was "identified as being utilized" by Hamas. 

"An IDF aircraft struck an ambulance that was identified by forces as being used by a Hamas terrorist cell in close proximity to their position in the battle zone," said a statement released by the IDF spokesman's office, adding that a number of Hamas terrorist operatives were killed in the strike.

"We intend to release additional information. More detailed information was shared with the intelligence agencies who we work with. We have information which demonstrates that Hamas' method of operation is to transfer terror operatives and weapons in ambulances," it stressed.

"We emphasize that this area is a battle zone. Civilians in the area are repeatedly called upon to evacuate southwards for their own safety."

In a separate television interview, IDF Spokesperson, Lt.Col. (Res.) Jonathan Conricus claimed that Hamas has been using ambulances "as an old method" to transport their members to other areas.

"This is not the first and not the hundredth time that Hamas operatives, including senior leaders, make illegal use of ambulances on the battlefield," he said. 

"It is not the first time, they did it in 2014. They are doing it again and we are well within our legal rights according to the laws of conflict once they use it and we perceive it as a threat — to attack," he reiterated.