Fact check: Were babies burned on october 7th 2023

1. Summary of the results

The evidence confirms that children were killed during the October 7th Hamas attack on Israel, with at least 29 children confirmed dead and approximately 30 taken hostage, according to United Nations verification ^[1]. However, the specific claim about babies being burned is unsubstantiated. Only one infant death has been definitively confirmed - 10-month-old Mila Cohen, who was shot while being held by her mother ^[2]. Claims about widespread baby burning or babies being burned in ovens lack credible evidence ^[3].

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

The original question lacks crucial context about how information spread during and after the attack:

• Initial reports and claims about burned babies came from Israeli government sources, who posted graphic photos allegedly showing such atrocities ^[4]
• Multiple Israeli media sources and fact-checking organizations have investigated these claims and found them to be unsubstantiated ^[3]
• Claims about baby beheadings, which were initially spread alongside burning claims, were later identified as a "hoax" and retracted by Israeli officials ^[2]

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

Several factors contributed to the spread of misinformation:

• Government Communication: Israeli officials initially spread extreme claims that they later had to retract ^[2]
• Media Amplification: Both Israeli and international media initially reported unverified claims, contributing to their spread ^[4]
• Emotional Impact: The specific focus on babies and extreme forms of violence likely contributed to these claims spreading rapidly before verification

It's important to note that while the specific claims about burning babies are unsubstantiated, this does not diminish the verified atrocities that did occur, including the confirmed deaths of 29 children and the taking of approximately 30 children as hostages ^[1].