Israeli airstrike on Gaza school kills over 30 people, injures 100+

An Israeli airstrike on a school in Deir-al Balah has resulted in the deaths of at least 30 individuals and injuries to over 100 others. This alarming development has been confirmed by the Palestinian Ministry of Health in Gaza.

The Israeli military has defended its actions, claiming the strike targeted a Hamas command and control center located within the school compound. The assertion underscores the complex and perilous nature of the ongoing hostilities in the region.

Dr. Khalil Al-Daqran, a spokesperson for Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital, relayed to CNN that the majority of those arriving for treatment in the aftermath of the airstrike were women and children, highlighting the severe humanitarian impact of the attack. The school was serving as a shelter for more than 4,000 displaced individuals, according to the Palestinian Civil Defense, making the strike particularly devastating.

The airstrike occurred shortly after the Israeli military issued new evacuation orders in the southern city of Khan Younis. Israel had launched a fresh offensive in Khan Younis earlier in the week, resulting in numerous Palestinian casualties. Residents of the southern neighborhoods were instructed to evacuate as the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced plans to “forcefully operate” in the area.

In a message posted on Telegram, the IDF signaled the imminence of another military campaign, stating it would “forcefully operate against the terrorist organizations” and urged the remaining population in Khan Younis to evacuate to the designated Humanitarian Area in Al-Mawasi. The IDF justified this directive by citing “significant terrorist activity and rocket fire” originating from southern Khan Younis and noted that the previously defined humanitarian area would be adjusted accordingly.

The ongoing Israeli military operations in Gaza have led to the deaths of 39,090 Palestinians and injuries to another 90,147, as reported by the Ministry of Health. As of early July, nearly 2 million people have been displaced within Gaza, a figure that represents almost the entire population, according to United Nations statistics.

The intensifying conflict has drawn international concern and calls for a ceasefire. Humanitarian organizations are urging both sides to prioritize the protection of civilians and to adhere to international laws governing armed conflict.

The recent airstrike on the school in Deir-al Balah serves as a stark reminder of the dire consequences of the conflict for the civilian population, particularly the vulnerable groups such as women and children. The international community continues to watch closely, with hopes for a resolution that will bring peace and stability to the region.

As the situation develops, all eyes remain on the actions of the involved parties and the efforts of international mediators to broker a ceasefire. The need for urgent humanitarian aid and protection for the displaced and affected populations has never been more critical.