By W. G. S. D. Wijesinghe, Jadetimes News
At least 30 people were killed and over 100 injured in an Israeli airstrike on a school in Deir al Balah, central Gaza, as reported by the Palestinian Ministry of Health in Gaza. The Israeli military claimed the strike aimed to destroy a Hamas command and control center within the compound. According to Dr. Khalil Al Daqran, a spokesperson for Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital, most of the victims were women and children. The school housed more than 4,000 displaced people, stated the Palestinian Civil Defense.
Fresh Evacuation Orders and Renewed Offensive
The strike came shortly after new Israeli military evacuation orders were issued for Khan Younis, where a fresh offensive had already killed dozens of Palestinians. Residents were told to evacuate due to impending "forceful operations" by the Israel Defence Forces (IDF). The ongoing fighting in Gaza underscores Israel's challenges in eliminating Hamas, with Israel reporting about 100 militants killed in recent conflicts. The UN estimated that around 150,000 people fled Khan Younis on Monday, straining food, water, and shelter resources. The IDF announced plans for further operations, urging remaining residents to relocate to a designated humanitarian area in Al Mawasi, which has also faced repeated Israeli attacks.
Humanitarian Crisis and Prospects for Ceasefire
The humanitarian situation in Gaza is dire, with nearly 2 million people displaced and emergency aid delivery becoming increasingly difficult. The UN Relief and Works Agency highlighted the inhumane conditions and lack of safety for Gaza residents. Despite the conflict, US and Israeli officials expressed optimism about a potential ceasefire and hostage deal. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken indicated progress towards an agreement, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu planned to dispatch a negotiation team to talks in Rome. Vice President Kamala Harris also urged Netanyahu to finalize the deal, emphasizing the global desire for peace.
