“These instructions are currently being implemented.”
It said the military has also implemented changes in combat doctrine “designated to further minimise civilian casualties and damage to civilian property in the future.”
“In particular, the IDF has adopted important new procedures designed to enhance the protection of civilians in urban warfare,” the report said, adding that a “humanitarian affairs officer” would be integrated in each combat unit, from battalion level up.
Israel has faced sharp condemnation for the high civilian toll and the use of white phosphorus munitions in the devastating 22-day offensive it launched in December 2008 in response to daily rocket attacks by Gaza’s Hamas rulers and other Palestinian armed groups.
Human rights groups say that more than half of the 1,400 Palestinians killed in the war did not take part in the hostilities, including 320 minors.
Rights groups also say Israel made widespread use of white phosphorus.
Under international law, white phosphorus is banned for use near civilians, but is permitted for creating a smokescreen.
The Israeli armed forces insist they did their utmost to avoid civilian casualties.
