World
Israeli Airstrike on Gaza School
The Israeli airstrike on a Gaza school has raised concerns and sparked international outrage. Explore the impact of the attack and the ongoing conflict in the region.
At least 29 Palestinians have been killed in an Israeli airstrike on a school-turned-shelter in southern Gaza, according to Gaza’s Hamas-run health ministry. The strike targeted the Al-Awda school in the town of Abasan al-Kabira, where civilians were ordered to evacuate last week.
The Israeli military claims it was targeting a “terrorist from Hamas’ military wing” who was involved in an attack earlier in October. The ongoing violence has led to the closure of medical facilities in Gaza City, forcing residents to seek refuge in other areas.
Residents were instructed to head south to Deir al-Balah, as heavy bombardment and ground operations have been reported in the north. The situation has made it challenging for first responders to reach affected areas, leading to difficulties in providing medical assistance.
Impact on Medical Facilities
Staff at hospitals in Gaza City, including Al-Ahli and the Patients Friends Association Hospital, were forced to evacuate patients due to the escalating violence. The Palestinian Red Crescent reported that all three of its medical facilities in Gaza City had to close.
Despite Israeli military assurances that hospitals did not need to evacuate, the history of raids on medical facilities in Gaza has created a climate of fear and uncertainty. Hospitals have often been targeted under the pretext of Hamas using them for military purposes.
Currently, only 13 out of Gaza’s 36 hospitals are partially operational, according to the United Nations’ humanitarian office. The situation is exacerbating the already strained healthcare system in Gaza.
Ceasefire Negotiations
Hamas has expressed concerns that the recent Israeli raids in Gaza City could jeopardize negotiations for a ceasefire and a potential hostage-release agreement. Mediated by the US, Egypt, and Qatar, the talks have seen some progress but face significant challenges.
While Hamas has shown flexibility by dropping its demand for an immediate end to the conflict, it is seeking guarantees that negotiations will lead to a lasting ceasefire. On the other hand, Israel is reluctant to agree to terms that would leave Hamas empowered.
The situation remains fragile, with both parties accusing each other of hindering the negotiation process. The international community continues to push for a resolution to the conflict to prevent further loss of life in Gaza.