How Israel is using drones in Gaza
They help keep troops out of the line of fire—but can pose a risk to civilians
THE GAZA STRIP is a risky place for an invading army: its cities provide cover for Hamas fighters, who know the terrain; it is heavily populated, with civilians often in harm’s way; fighting in built-up areas is likely to be at close quarters and consequently bloody. Since the outbreak of war between Israel and Hamas, some 75 Israeli soldiers have been killed in Gaza (more than 300 other military personnel died in the terrorist attack on October 7th). Israel has used aerial and artillery bombardment to pummel Hamas from a safe distance: more than 15,500 Palestinians, according to Gaza’s Hamas-run health ministry. When troops engage, Israeli commanders have other means to reduce the risk to their soldiers, by putting drones on the front lines. What role are drones playing in this war—and what risks do they pose to civilians?
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