INTERNEWSTIMES.COM – The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) has strongly condemned an Israeli airstrike on a school in central Gaza, which killed six UNRWA staff members and injured several others. This incident marks the highest death toll among UNRWA personnel in a single incident since the current conflict began.
The airstrike, which occurred on Wednesday afternoon, targeted a school in the Nuseirat refugee camp, a densely populated area sheltering thousands of displaced Palestinians. The school was reportedly housing approximately 12,000 people, primarily women and children.
“This is a horrific tragedy,” said UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini. “We are deeply saddened by the loss of our colleagues and extend our deepest condolences to their families. We call on all parties to the conflict to respect international humanitarian law and ensure the protection of civilians, including humanitarian workers.”
The Israeli military has claimed that the airstrike targeted a Hamas command and control center located in the vicinity of the school. However, UNRWA has refuted this claim, stating that the school has been struck multiple times since the conflict began and is a designated safe haven for displaced civilians.
The incident has sparked widespread condemnation from the international community. UN Secretary-General António Guterres has called for an independent investigation into the airstrike, emphasizing the need for accountability for the deaths of UN staff and humanitarian workers.
“This is a clear violation of international law,” stated Guterres. “The killing of civilians, including humanitarian workers, is unacceptable and must be investigated thoroughly. The perpetrators must be held accountable.”
The Israeli military has not yet commented on the UNRWA’s condemnation or the call for an independent investigation.
This latest incident highlights the growing concerns over civilian casualties in the ongoing conflict. The humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, with thousands of people displaced and in need of urgent aid. (RED)
