A controversial report about the Israeli war in Gaza is getting swift condemnation from the Jewish state.

The report, called "Breaking the Silence," was compiled by Israeli veterans of the offensive from last December.  The soldiers spoke anonymously.

They accuse their own military of using excessive force and using Palestinians to enter houses before them during raids.  The Israeli soldiers added that the orders came from the very top.

In response to the claims, Israeli Defense Minister Ehud Barak says his army behaves in accordance with the highest ethical code.

He also says the accusations are based merely on hearsay.