An Israeli airstrike on a school sheltering displaced people in central Gaza killed at least 28 individuals, including women and children, while injuring 54 others, Reuters reports.
The strike occurred in Deir Al-Balah, where many have fled due to the ongoing war. The Israeli military claimed the strike targeted a Hamas command center in the school, accusing Hamas of using civilian infrastructure in violation of international law. Hamas denies these allegations.
The airstrike comes amid a broader offensive in northern Gaza, which began six days ago, with Israeli forces advancing into Jabalia and surrounding areas, resulting in at least 130 Palestinian deaths. Three hospitals in the area have been ordered to evacuate, threatening the lives of patients, including children.
The ongoing conflict, initiated by a Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, has resulted in 1,200 Israeli deaths and the capture of 250 hostages. Israel’s military response has reportedly caused over 42,000 Palestinian deaths, with a majority of Gaza’s 2.3 million residents displaced.
