Israeli forces have launched attacks on five separate schools in Gaza over just eight days, resulting in the deaths of dozens seeking refuge within their walls, as reported by Palestinian officials, medics, and rescuers. The most recent attack occurred on a United Nations-run school in the Nuseirat refugee camp, killing at least 17 people and injuring around 80, with many victims being women and children, according to the Palestinian Civil Defence.
Al Jazeera’s Hani Mahmoud reported from Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital, where severely burned victims were admitted. He described the scene as tragic, with women and children in agony from what he referred to as “incinerating bombs.”
The bombardment follows a series of deadly strikes, including one on July 9 near the al-Awda school in Khan Younis, which claimed at least 29 lives, and another attack on the Holy Family school in Gaza City that killed four. These incidents reflect a grim trend of violence in schools that have turned into makeshift shelters for displaced Palestinians.
Israel justifies these strikes by alleging that Hamas is using civilian facilities for military purposes, yet it has failed to provide evidence to substantiate such claims. Critics argue that these actions demonstrate a disproportionate use of force against civilians, with over 38,600 casualties reported since the conflict escalated on October 7, 2023, most of whom are women and children.
In a recent assault in the al-Mawasi area, designated as a safe zone, Israeli forces killed at least 90 individuals and injured 300. Palestinian Ambassador to the UK, Husam Zomlot, condemned the latest school attack, attributing it to Israel’s impunity and a lack of international action.
Since the conflict began, Israel has struck more than 400 schools in Gaza, severely impacting the education system and leaving approximately 620,000 school-age Palestinians without access to education. A UN report highlighted that these repeated attacks on civilian infrastructure likely violate international law, emphasizing the obligation to protect civilians in conflict zones.
As Israeli forces continue their offensive, the consequences for Gaza’s civilian population remain dire. The destruction of schools, homes, and essential infrastructure threatens the future of a generation, raising urgent questions about the humanitarian implications of ongoing hostilities.