Death rate in Israeli bombardment of UN-run school in Gaza surges to 22
Date
7/16/2024 3:26:37 AM
(MENAFN) The death toll from the recent Israeli bombardment of a UN-run school that was sheltering displaced Palestinians in the central Gaza Strip has tragically risen to 22, according to the Health Ministry's report on Monday. The attack, which targeted the Abu Oreiban School operated by the UN Agency for Palestinian Refugees (UNRWA) in the Nuseirat refugee camp, also left at least 102 others injured. The statement from the ministry highlighted that among the victims were several children and women, underscoring the devastating impact on vulnerable populations.
The Israeli army confirmed the strike, asserting that the school was being used as a hideout and as part of operational infrastructure for attacks against its forces. This justification for the attack has sparked outrage, especially considering the humanitarian context in which the school was functioning. The bombing of the school occurred just a day after another deadly strike in the southern Gaza Strip, where at least 90 people were killed and nearly 300 injured in an assault on what was described as a "humanitarian zone" for displaced Palestinians.
Israel's continued military operations have drawn widespread international condemnation, particularly as they violate a UN Security Council resolution calling for an immediate cease-fire. Since the escalation of hostilities following the October 7 attack by a Palestinian group, the situation in Gaza has become increasingly dire. Local health authorities report that nearly 38,700 Palestinians have been killed, with the majority being women and children, while more than 89,000 have sustained injuries.
After more than nine months of relentless bombardment, large portions of Gaza lie in ruins, compounded by a severe blockade that restricts access to food, clean water, and essential medical supplies. The Israeli government faces accusations of genocide at the International Court of Justice, which recently issued a ruling demanding an immediate halt to military operations in the southern city of Rafah. This area had previously become a refuge for over 1 million Palestinians fleeing the conflict before it was invaded on May 6, further exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.
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