Kathmandu— More than two years after five-year-old Hind Rajab was killed in Gaza, becoming an emblem of the conflict’s devastating impact on children, Israel’s military announced a criminal investigation into her death on Wednesday. The announcement follows long-standing accusations against Israeli forces and comes after journalistic investigations revealed details surrounding the incident, including that troops fired at the vehicle carrying Rajab and her family while they attempted to evacuate Gaza City in January 2024. While acknowledging its soldiers fired upon the car, Israel’s military stated the investigation was prompted by alleged failures in coordinating with the Palestine Red Crescent ambulance attempting to reach the wounded child.

Timeline of Events

On January 29, 2024, Hind Rajab died from her injuries while trapped inside a car surrounded by the bodies of her relatives. Her family had been forcibly displaced earlier that day and were attempting to comply with Israeli orders to leave Gaza City when their vehicle was struck by over 300 bullets fired by Israeli forces. Palestinian Red Crescent workers attempted to reach Rajab, but were reportedly blocked by Israeli troops. Paramedics maintained contact with the child via phone until communication was lost.

Admission of Fire

The military’s statement on Wednesday marked the first time Israel has admitted shooting at the car carrying Hind Rajab and her family. The announcement follows a review of 150 incidents involving troop conduct during Israel’s war in Gaza, though criminal investigations will not be launched into several other attacks, including those targeting aid workers from World Central Kitchen and Doctors Without Borders.

Calls for International Probe

Hind Rajab’s grandmother, also named Hind Rajab, expressed skepticism about the Israeli investigation, calling for an international probe to ensure accountability for her granddaughter's death and the deaths of other children in Gaza. “An international investigation is required to uncover the truth and hold all those responsible accountable,” she told The Associated Press. Al Jazeera’s Hani Mahmoud reported that Gazans are similarly doubtful the investigation will deliver justice.

Rajab as a Symbol

Hind Rajab quickly became a symbol of civilian suffering in Gaza, with her recorded pleas for help widely circulated on social media and drawing international condemnation. An Al Jazeera investigation revealed the Israeli tank responsible was likely positioned close enough to clearly identify civilians inside the vehicle. A docu-drama detailing the events surrounding Hind Rajab’s death has been nominated for Best International Feature Film at the 2026 Oscars.

The military said it is also reviewing the killing of 15 Palestinian medics in March 2025, but past investigations into Israeli troop conduct have rarely resulted in convictions.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.