Palestine (Washington Insider Magazine) – An Israeli airstrike targeting a school sheltering displaced Palestinians in Gaza City has claimed the lives of more than 70 individuals, as reported by Fadl Naeem, director of al-Ahli Hospital. The al-Taba’een school, which also functioned as a mosque, was struck early during dawn prayers, resulting in substantial casualties among the displaced population.
According to the Israeli military, Islamic Jihad and Hamas, we utilized the al-Taba’een school as a military site. Hamas, which refutes these accusations, has challenged this claim. The world community has strongly criticized the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) for their claim that the strike killed at least 19 militants.
Impact on Civilian Infrastructure and Growing Criticism
The attack brings attention to the continuous problem of destroyed civilian infrastructure in Gaza. Numerous school buildings in Gaza have been impacted by recent strikes, as reported by the United Nations. Several establishments, including the al-Taba’een school, were affected, which is concerning given the conflict’s disturbing tendency to target hospitals and schools.
According to BBC, the strike has sparked strong responses from global leaders and organizations. The United States has expressed deep concern over the civilian casualties, stressing the need for Israel to minimize harm to non-combatants. UNICEF and other humanitarian organizations have condemned the attack, calling for immediate action to protect civilian lives and expedite efforts for a ceasefire.
Diplomatic Efforts Under Strain
The diplomatic efforts to secure a ceasefire have been further impacted by the rise of violence in the Gaza Strip. Egypt and Qatar, two of the region’s mediators, have condemned the attack and demanded an international probe into possible violations of international humanitarian law. Over 39,790 Palestinians have been reported killed in the fighting, which started on October 7 with an offensive by militants commanded by Hamas. This information is based on the health ministry of Gaza.
This tragic incident underscores the pressing need for effective international intervention and a renewed focus on diplomatic solutions to the ongoing conflict.