Image Credits - ABC News
In a severe escalation of conflict, Israeli airstrikes targeted two schools in Gaza on Wednesday, resulting in the deaths of at least 12 Palestinians, including students and staff. The schools, operated by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), were providing shelter to families displaced by ongoing violence.
The schools, which were operating as shelters for displaced families, were struck during a period of heightened tension and conflict in the region. Witnesses have described scenes of chaos and devastation, with significant damage inflicted on the buildings and surrounding infrastructure.
The attacks, which occurred during the morning hours, caused significant destruction to the buildings, leaving debris and wreckage scattered. Eyewitnesses reported a chaotic scene as emergency services worked to rescue survivors and transport the injured to nearby hospitals.
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have claimed that the airstrikes were aimed at sites allegedly used by militant groups for launching attacks against Israeli targets. They assert that the schools were part of a network of facilities utilized by these groups for military purposes. However, these assertions have yet to be independently verified, and no immediate evidence has been presented to support the claims.
In response, UNRWA has condemned the strikes as a grave violation of international law. The international community has expressed alarm over the escalating violence and the increasing toll on civilian lives. Human rights organizations are calling for an independent investigation into the attacks and urging both sides to de-escalate tensions to prevent further civilian casualties.
The bombings have intensified calls for renewed peace talks and a reassessment of strategies to protect non-combatants amidst the ongoing conflict. As the situation develops, the focus remains on addressing the humanitarian crisis and finding a path toward lasting peace.