Multiple reports from organizations like Amnesty International and the United Nations have highlighted a disturbing pattern: Israeli snipers frequently targeted protesters' legs, resulting in mass maiming and long-term disabilities. Over 6,000 Palestinians were injured by live ammunition, many sustaining severe injuries to their lower limbs, leading to numerous amputations. Doctors and human rights groups have noted that these injuries were not consistent with standard crowd control measures but appeared intended to cause lasting harm without immediately killing the protesters. This tactic has been described as "shoot to maim"​(
Middle East Eye)​(Amnesty International USA).

Witnesses and medical professionals reported that many of the injured, including children, journalists, and medical staff, posed no imminent threat when they were shot. Despite these actions being framed as necessary for border security, international bodies have condemned them as excessive and disproportionate. Investigations suggest that the use of such force may constitute violations of international human rights law, with calls for accountability and further scrutiny through war crime investigations​(
OHCHR)​(Amnesty International USA).

The Israeli military has defended its actions, stating that live fire was used as a last resort and in response to imminent threats. However, international observers have widely criticized the scale and nature of the injuries inflicted during these protests, urging stronger international action, including arms embargoes, to prevent further incidents.