An airstrike on a school complex housing displaced people near Khan Younis in Gaza has resulted in a tragic loss of life. According to the Palestinian Ministry of Health, at least 25 people were killed and dozens more were injured in the attack.
The ministry reported that Israel targeted the gate of a school in the town of Abasan, east of Khan Younis, where displaced citizens had sought refuge. The incident has been described as a heinous massacre against civilians.
Further reports indicate that 53 individuals were injured, with some in critical condition. The death toll is expected to rise as casualties are being transferred to Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis.
The Government Media Office in Gaza and Hamas have both condemned the attack, labeling it as a massacre against defenseless people. Calls have been made to the international community, the United Nations, and NGOs to intervene and halt the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
This recent airstrike follows a previous attack on a school run by the United Nations' agency for Palestinian refugees, which resulted in the deaths of at least 16 individuals and left many more injured.
The Israeli military has stated that militants were operating in structures near the targeted school areas, justifying their actions as necessary to prevent civilian casualties. Evacuation orders issued by the IDF have led to a significant increase in the number of displaced people in Gaza, with approximately 1.9 million individuals now estimated to be internally displaced.
Humanitarian agencies have raised concerns about the impact of these evacuations on the already strained healthcare system in Gaza. The constant displacements make it challenging for aid organizations to provide essential services, including food and medical assistance.
The situation in Gaza remains volatile, with ongoing clashes between Israeli forces and Hamas. Efforts to negotiate a ceasefire and address the humanitarian crisis are being hindered by the escalating violence and displacement of civilians.
