The large number of Palestinian casualties was due to "increased use of heavier weapons in the territories, including helicopters, tanks, machine guns and rockets," reported Haaretz, citing Israeli military sources.
The paper said that the Israeli units resorted to the use of heavy as well as light weapons without proper authorization from higher ranks in the army, a fact which led the higher command to issue guidelines controlling the extent of weapons use, the sources told the paper.
It also appeared that many units operating in the territories lacked clear understanding of when they were permitted to open fire against the demonstrators, said the report.
Only Chief of Staff Shaul Mofaz is authorized to order the use of attack helicopters during confrontations with Palestinians, said Haaretz.
The guidelines also specify that "the use of light weapon needs to be authorized by the regional Brigade commander."
According to the instructions issued by the military, only the highest echelons of regional command (Major General), can order the use of tanks and heavy machine guns, said the paper.
Regarding the use of light weapons, such as the rifles used by the troops, the instructions deal with responding to stone or firebomb throwers, not to situations when the troops are under fire.
In the former case, the troops are allowed to shoot at the legs of the protesters, only if their lives are in danger, Haaretz said – Albawaba.com
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