Gaza, 12 September 2024: In a tragic incident, Israeli airstrikes on a UN-run school in Gaza have resulted in significant casualties, including the deaths of UN staff members and displaced Palestinians. This event has drawn widespread condemnation and highlighted the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the region.
Casualties and Incidents
The airstrikes on the UN school led to the deaths of at least 18 people, including six staff members of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA). This marks one of the highest death tolls among UN staff in a single incident. Another strike on a different school resulted in the deaths of at least 14 people. Reports indicate that this particular shelter had been targeted multiple times before, exacerbating the tragedy.
Just Tragic.#Gaza
Six @UNRWA colleagues killed today when two airstrikes hit a school and its surroundings in Nuseirat in the middle areas.
This is the highest death toll among our staff in a single incident.
Among those killed was the manager of the UNRWA shelter and other…— UNRWA (@UNRWA) September 11, 2024
UN and International Reaction
UN Secretary-General António Guterres condemned the strikes, emphasizing the loss of life, including UN staff, and called for accountability and an immediate ceasefire. The UN is working to confirm the casualties among its staff, with indications that this incident is part of a broader pattern of targeting UN facilities. The international community has echoed these sentiments, calling for an end to the violence and protection of humanitarian workers.
Israeli Military’s Stance
The Israeli military has stated that its strikes were aimed at Hamas militants, claiming that the school was being used as a command and control center by Hamas. Despite these assertions, the strikes have resulted in significant civilian casualties, drawing international criticism and raising questions about the proportionality and targeting of the attacks.
Humanitarian Impact
These incidents add to the severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Since the conflict escalated, over 41,000 Palestinians have been reported killed, and nearly 96,000 wounded. The strikes on schools, which serve as shelters for displaced families, have intensified the displacement and suffering, with many victims being women and children. The destruction of these shelters further complicates the efforts to provide safe havens for those affected by the conflict.
Global Sentiment
The global reaction has been one of shock and condemnation. Social media platforms, including X (formerly Twitter), have seen an outpouring of grief and anger. Users and news outlets have highlighted the recurring nature of such incidents and the significant loss of UN staff, viewing it as an attack on humanitarian efforts. The international community continues to call for an immediate ceasefire and protection for civilians and humanitarian workers.
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