Israeli Strike On Gaza School Shelter Kills 27 People

An Israeli airstrike on a school-turned-shelter in the central Gaza city of Deir al-Balah killed at least 27 people, including women and children, according to Palestinian health officials. The school was housing displaced families who fled other war-torn areas of Gaza.

Military Targets vs. Civilian Casualties

The Israeli military claimed the strike targeted a militant command center inside the school, though no evidence has been provided. Witnesses, however, reported that an aid meeting was taking place at the time of the strike, and no militants were present.

Aid Workers Among the Victims

The Palestinian branch of the Swiss aid group Terre des Hommes confirmed that several members of their children’s health team were among the dead. This marks yet another deadly strike on civilian shelters, raising concerns over the safety of humanitarian workers in Gaza.

Gaza’s Ongoing Devastation

Israel’s military campaign, launched in response to Hamas’ October 7, 2023, attack, has claimed the lives of over 42,000 Palestinians, according to local health authorities. Despite targeting militants, civilians continue to bear the brunt of the airstrikes, with entire neighborhoods reduced to rubble.

Hezbollah Conflict Escalates in Lebanon

Meanwhile, Israel’s conflict with Hezbollah in Lebanon intensifies, with Israeli forces conducting airstrikes in Beirut and other areas. The Israeli military also acknowledged firing on a U.N. peacekeeping base in southern Lebanon, injuring two peacekeepers, drawing international condemnation.

Rising Casualties and Destruction

As both fronts of the war widen, the death toll in Lebanon has reached over 2,000, with Hezbollah attacks killing dozens of Israeli civilians and soldiers. Despite calls for ceasefire, the fighting shows no sign of slowing, as tensions escalate with Iran and Hezbollah’s increased rocket fire into northern Israel.

International Reaction and Warnings

The European Union, Italy, and other nations condemned Israeli strikes, especially the attack on U.N. positions. The situation remains volatile, with Israel’s security cabinet set to discuss its next move, and tensions rising across the region as Iran supports both Hamas and Hezbollah.