Rocket attacks against civilians are a war crime

In light of the recent escalation in violence around the Gaza Strip, and the firing of rockets towards Israeli communities, the Israeli human rights organization B'Tselem has repeated its demand that all parties to the hostilities prevent the harming of civilians. The rules of war obligate all parties to a conflict to do their utmost to defend the civilian population. Deliberate targeting of civilians is expressly prohibited.

Palestinian rocket fire at Israeli civilians constitutes a war crime and those responsible for it must be prosecuted. Israel is obligated to defend its civilians, but it must do so in compliance with international humanitarian law.