Local officials in Gaza have reported that more than 40 Palestinians were killed in an Israeli strike on a school in the Al-Daraj neighborhood of Gaza City. The Al-Tabi’in school was being used as a shelter for displaced Palestinians when it was hit overnight into Saturday.
The Israel Defense Forces confirmed that they targeted the school, stating that it was being used as a Hamas command and control center. The military claimed that the center was used by Hamas terrorists to plan and carry out attacks against IDF troops and Israel.
Despite the strike, the military stated that precautions were taken to minimize civilian casualties, including the use of precise munitions and intelligence information.
Reports from a nearby hospital indicate that at least 50 people have been killed, with many more wounded. The hospital is overwhelmed with the injured, many of whom have suffered amputations and burns.
Gaza Civil Defense spokesperson mentioned that the process of identifying the deceased is ongoing, as there are still many body parts and torn bodies that need to be matched with their families.
Israeli military actions in Gaza have resulted in a significant number of casualties and displaced persons. According to Gaza's Ministry of Health, nearly 40,000 Palestinians have been killed, and over 90,000 have been injured. The United Nations reports that almost the entire population of Gaza, around 2 million people, have been displaced.
The recent escalation in violence began when Hamas attacked southern Israel, prompting Israel to launch a military offensive. The conflict has led to a high number of casualties on both sides.
Last weekend, similar deadly strikes by Israel targeted school buildings housing displaced Palestinians, resulting in the deaths of at least 47 individuals, including children.
Video footage from the area shows the extent of the destruction and the efforts of medics and rescuers to assist the injured. Palestinian officials have criticized Israel for not providing any warning to civilians before carrying out the airstrikes.
