An Israeli airstrike targeted a school in the Jabalia refugee camp in northern Gaza on Thursday, resulting in a tragic loss of life. The strike hit a school that was serving as a shelter for thousands of displaced Palestinians, leading to the deaths of at least 11 individuals and injuring 22 others, including women and children, as reported by the territory's Health Ministry.
The Israeli military confirmed the strike, stating that it was aimed at Hamas militants inside the school who were allegedly planning attacks on Israeli troops. However, this claim could not be independently verified.
Footage from the al-Falouja School depicted a scene of chaos and devastation, with rescue workers scrambling to assist casualties amid debris and a large crowd of people. Shocking images showed individuals handling body parts and attempting to preserve the dignity of the deceased.
Israeli forces have defended their targeting of schools by alleging that Hamas fighters utilize these facilities as command centers for planning attacks. The military asserts that it employs precision weapons to minimize civilian casualties.
The ongoing conflict in Gaza has forced tens of thousands of Palestinians to seek refuge in schools after fleeing their homes due to Israeli airstrikes and offensives. According to the United Nations, over 1.9 million out of Gaza's 2.4 million residents have been displaced during the nearly yearlong conflict.
The Health Ministry in Gaza reported that the Israeli campaign has resulted in the deaths of more than 41,500 Palestinians and left over 96,000 others wounded. While the ministry's figures do not distinguish between civilians and combatants, it is noted that a significant portion of the casualties are women and children, with approximately 1,300 children under the age of 2 among the deceased.
Israel initiated its military campaign in Gaza following an attack by Hamas on October 7, during which militants killed around 1,200 people and took approximately 250 others hostage. Israel attributes civilian casualties in Gaza to Hamas, citing the group's presence in residential areas and use of civilian infrastructure for military purposes.
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