Israeli Airstrike Hits School in Gaza, Killing at Least 30 Including Children

July 30, 2024 - An Israeli airstrike on a school in Deir al-Balah, Gaza, has resulted in the deaths of at least 30 people, including many children. The school was being used as a shelter by displaced Palestinians, who have been forced to flee their homes due to ongoing military operations. This incident has intensified the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where relentless airstrikes and evacuation orders have left the population in dire conditions.

Escalating Humanitarian Crisis

The Palestinian Health Ministry reports that the death toll in Gaza has surpassed 39,200 since the conflict began. Civilians, including women and children, bear the brunt of the violence. The United Nations has condemned the forced displacements and continuous bombardments, stressing the dire need for humanitarian assistance.

Voices from Gaza

Local residents describe the harrowing conditions. Mohammad Jaber, who has been displaced multiple times, expressed despair over the lack of safe places. “Every time they tell us to go to an area, and it is unsafe. This time, we do not know where to go,” he said. Families are struggling to find shelter and essential services amidst the destruction.

International Response

The international community, including the UN and various humanitarian organizations, has called for an immediate ceasefire and the protection of civilians. Juliette Touma, spokesperson for the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, emphasized that the latest evacuation orders add to the suffering of an already vulnerable population, highlighting the urgent need for a humanitarian corridor.

The situation in Gaza underscores the devastating impact of the conflict on innocent civilians and the urgent need for international intervention to bring about a peaceful resolution.