An Israeli air strike on a UN school in central Gaza has resulted in the deaths of more than 20 people, according to local residents. The school, which housed hundreds of displaced individuals, was targeted by Israeli fighter jets. The Israeli military claimed that the school harbored a “Hamas compound.” However, the Hamas media office disputes this, stating that at least 27 people were killed in what they describe as a “horrific massacre.” Ambulances and rescue teams rushed the wounded and deceased to a nearby hospital. The ongoing conflict has escalated, drawing international condemnation and impacting negotiations for a ceasefire and hostage exchange1.
The Israeli military maintains that it “eliminated” several “terrorists” during the precise strike on the UNRWA school in the Nuseirat refugee camp. This incident is part of the deadliest war in Gaza’s history, triggered by Hamas’s attack on southern Israel on October 7, which resulted in the deaths of 1,194 people, mostly civilians.
Additionally, militants took 251 hostages, with 120 remaining in Gaza, including 41 who are confirmed dead. The conflict has claimed the lives of over 36,580 people in Gaza, primarily civilians, according to the Hamas-run health ministry. Israel faces diplomatic isolation due to its conduct during the war, with cases pending before international courts and recognition of a Palestinian state by several European governments2. Hamas continues to be a frequent target of Israeli accusations.
