Escalating Conflict: Israeli Airstrikes Target Schools in Gaza Amid Humanitarian Crisis
On Sunday, the Israeli military reported conducting a series of airstrikes in the Gaza Strip, including a contentious attack on a school in Beit Hanun, located in northern Gaza. The Israeli army described the school as a meeting point for militants, but Palestinian news agency Wafa highlighted a stark contrast, stating that the institution was serving as a shelter for several displaced families. Tragically, the airstrike resulted in the deaths of at least 15 individuals during the military's incursion, leading to the arrest of some men present at the site.
Additionally, reports emerged of another deadly airstrike in the evening targeting a school operated by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) in Khan Yunis, positioned in southern Gaza. Videos shared across social media platforms indicated that the third floor of the building was struck, with initial reports estimating fatalities to range between 12 and 20 and injuries around 35.
As of now, the Israeli army has not issued a statement regarding the attacks on these educational institutions, which raises further concerns about the impact of the ongoing conflict on civilians and humanitarian resources. Since the onset of Israel's military operation following the Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023, there has been a significant uptick in airstrikes across Gaza, affecting homes, schools, hospitals, and various facilities occupied by displaced civilians. Israel justifies these actions by claiming that many of these sites harbor Hamas operatives.
According to local authorities in Gaza, the civilian toll has reached alarming levels, with over 45,000 individuals reported killed amidst the ongoing violence. The international community remains deeply concerned about the humanitarian ramifications of the conflict and the protective measures needed to safeguard innocent lives caught in the crossfire.
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