At least 18 Israeli airstrikes during the fighting in Gaza in November 2012 were in apparent violation of the laws of war. These airstrikes killed at least 43 Palestinian civilians, including 12 children. Human Rights Watch conducted detailed field investigations and found 15 strikes by aerial drones or other aircraft for which there was no indication of a legitimate military target at the site at the time of the attack. In three other cases, attacks may have targeted Palestinian fighters, but appeared to use indiscriminate means or caused disproportionate harm to civilians. Under the laws of war, only military objectives – belligerent forces or objects that make an effective contribution to military action – may be targeted.