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In a devastating incident, an Israeli airstrike on a school-turned-shelter in Gaza City has resulted in the deaths of more than 100 people, including women and children. Palestinian officials have reported that the death toll is expected to rise as rescue operations continue.
Gaza School Incident
The strike occurred early Saturday morning at the Tabeen school in the al-Daraj district of Gaza City. The school was being used as a shelter for displaced Palestinians amid ongoing conflict in the region. According to Palestinian health officials, three Israeli rockets hit the school, causing significant casualties and widespread destruction.
Casualties and Damage
The Gaza Civil Defence agency reported that the attack killed over 100 people and injured dozens more. Many of the victims were performing dawn prayers when the strike occurred, leading to a rapid increase in the number of casualties. Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos and devastation, with bodies scattered across the site and rescue teams struggling to reach those trapped under the rubble.
Reactions and Condemnations
The attack has drawn widespread condemnation from Palestinian officials and international observers. The Hamas-run Gaza government media office described the incident as a “horrific massacre” and accused Israel of committing war crimes. The Palestinian Islamic Jihad also rejected Israel’s claims that the school was being used as a hideout for Hamas terrorists, calling the justification “false and misleading”.
Israeli Response to the Gaza School Strike
In its statement, the Israeli military claimed that the airstrike targeted a “command and control centre” used by Hamas terrorists. The military asserted that the centre was embedded within the school and that numerous steps were taken to mitigate civilian casualties, including the use of precise munitions and aerial surveillance. However, these claims have been met with skepticism and outrage from Palestinian authorities and human rights organizations.
Humanitarian Impact
The attack has exacerbated the already dire humanitarian situation in Gaza. Hospitals are overwhelmed with the influx of casualties, and medical facilities are struggling to provide adequate care. The international community has called for immediate humanitarian assistance and a thorough investigation into the incident.
The Israeli airstrike on the Tabeen school-turned-shelter in Gaza City has resulted in a tragic loss of life and heightened tensions in the region. As the death toll continues to rise, the incident underscores the urgent need for a peaceful resolution to the conflict and the protection of civilians in war zones.