Israeli hostages shot dead by IDF troops in Gaza were holding up WHITE FLAG when they were mistaken for Hamas terrorists

Three Israeli hostages accidentally killed in Gaza by Israeli forces were holding up a white flag, an initial investigation into the incident showed, a military official revealed today.

The incident took place in an area of ​​heavy fighting, where Hamas terrorists operate in plain clothes and use deception tactics, the official said.

The hostages were shot in violation of Israeli rules, the official added.

This is a breaking news story. More to follow.