Israel's military says 'misidentification' led to Gaza airstrikes that killed aid workers

Israel's military chief acknowledges deadly strike on aid workers in Gaza as a result of "misidentification" in complex conditions. Lt Gen Herzi Halevi expresses remorse and calls it a "grave mistake". Further details not provided, but promises thorough investigation by independent body. Incident occurred at night during war, with final report expected in coming days.

Israel's military chief says a deadly Israeli strike that killed seven aid workers in the Gaza Strip was the result of a “misidentification” in complex conditions.

Announcing the results of a preliminary investigation early Wednesday, Lt Gen Herzi Halevi expressed remorse over the killings and called the event a “grave mistake”.

“It was a mistake that followed a misidentification - at night during a war in very complex conditions. It shouldn't have happened,” he said. He gave no further details.

He said an independent body would conduct a “thorough investigation” that would be completed in the coming days.