A hospital in central Gaza reported that at least 37 people were killed in Israeli bombardment overnight of a UN-run school, while the Israeli military claimed the school was a “Hamas compound.” The deadly strike occurred amidst talks led by US, Qatari, and Egyptian mediators to secure a truce and hostage release agreement in response to the eight-month conflict initiated by Hamas’ October 7 attack.
Israel defended its actions, stating they had targeted militants within an UNRWA school in the central Gaza Strip. The Al-Aqsa Martyrs hospital in Deir al-Balah received the bodies of the victims and condemned the incident as a “horrific massacre.” Additional strikes by Israel caused more casualties in other areas of Gaza.
The conflict, which began with Hamas’ attack on Israel resulting in the deaths of 1,194 individuals, has led to significant casualties on both sides. Efforts to negotiate a ceasefire have faced challenges, as Hamas pushes for a permanent truce and full Israeli withdrawal. International pressure has mounted on Israel, accusing the country of war crimes.
Tensions have also escalated along the Israeli-Lebanese border, with Hezbollah engaging in cross-border clashes with Israeli forces. The conflict has caused fatalities in both countries, prompting warnings from the United States regarding potential escalations in the region. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has pledged to restore security to the north, indicating a readiness for intense operations in the area.
