A report published by Sky News claimed that IDF soldiers detained a ‘Palestinian’ ambulance carrying a woman in advanced pregnancy for over 30 minutes at a checkpoint near the village of Awarta following a terror attack in the area. According to the report, forces even ordered the ambulance engine and internal medical equipment to be turned off.
According to the allegations, the woman gave birth to a stillborn baby inside the ambulance during the delay. The report further added that after reaching the hospital, she underwent life-saving emergency surgery, though doctors were unable to save the fetus.
However, the IDF completely rejects the claims and presents a starkly different account of the event. The IDF Spokesperson stated that following the terror attack on July 24th, and based on a situational assessment in the sector, a temporary closure was placed on the city of Nablus. As part of these measures, on Monday, July 27th, dozens of ambulances passed through checkpoints into the city without incident.
The military further stated that the ambulance in question arrived at the checkpoint near Awarta without completing the required advance security coordination. Consequently, troops operating at the site conducted a security inspection lasting only a few minutes. Following the check, the ambulance proceeded on its way into Nablus.
The IDF emphasized that the military works continuously to facilitate the movement of medical personnel, noting that ambulances that coordinate their passage in advance pass without inspection. “There is no intention whatsoever to delay medical treatment or medical evacuation,” the IDF stated.