Israeli airstrikes on Gaza overnight and on Wednesday have resulted in significant casualties. The attacks, which targeted central Gaza, have claimed at least 34 lives, including six United Nations staff members and 19 women and children. The Israeli military has stated that its strikes were aimed at a Hamas command and control center, allegedly situated in a UN school in the Nuseirat refugee camp. This incident marks one of the highest death tolls among UN personnel in a single attack.
Key Details:
- Attack on UN School:
- The airstrike targeted the UN-run al-Jaouni Preparatory Boys School in the Nuseirat camp, which was housing approximately 12,000 displaced Palestinians.
- The United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) reported that this was the deadliest incident involving their staff since the conflict began.
- Israeli Military Claims:
- The Israeli army asserted that the school was used by Hamas for military operations.
- The military has stated that its operations are aimed at Hamas militants, and they claim to be taking measures to minimize civilian casualties.
- UN and International Response:
- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres criticized the lack of accountability for the deaths of UN staff and humanitarian workers.
- Philippe Lazzarini, UNRWA’s director, condemned the ongoing disregard for humanitarian staff and facilities.
- Wider Impact of the Conflict:
- Since the onset of hostilities on October 7, following attacks by Hamas that killed about 1,200 Israelis, the Palestinian Health Ministry reports over 41,000 Palestinian deaths and more than 95,000 injuries.
- In the West Bank, Israeli raids have caused additional casualties, and there has been ongoing violence and airstrikes across different regions.
- Infrastructure Damage:
- Over 90% of Gaza’s school buildings have been damaged due to the conflict.
- Many schools that are housing displaced persons have also been targeted.
Current Situation: The cycle of violence continues with international efforts to broker a ceasefire remaining stalled. The conflict has led to severe humanitarian impacts, with widespread damage and loss of life in Gaza and the West Bank.
