Israeli air strikes kill six UN aid workers in Gaza

On Wednesday, an Israeli airstrike targeted the al-Jaouni school in central Gaza, resulting in the deaths of six employees from the United Nations relief agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA. This incident marks the fifth time the school has been struck since the onset of the conflict, which began after Hamas-led militants attacked Israel on October 7. The school was sheltering approximately 12,000 individuals, primarily women and children, who were fleeing the violence in the region. The U.N. Secretary General, António Guterres, condemned the airstrikes as severe violations of international humanitarian law, emphasizing the growing impunity surrounding such actions. The ongoing military offensive has led to a staggering death toll, with Gaza’s Health Ministry reporting over 41,000 Palestinian fatalities and more than 95,000 injuries since the conflict escalated. The humanitarian situation in Gaza is dire, with widespread hunger and disease affecting the population. A report from the World Health Organization highlighted the urgent need for rehabilitation services, as many individuals have sustained severe injuries, including amputations. The health system in Gaza is collapsing under the pressure of the conflict, further complicating the care available for the injured. As the violence continues, the international community faces increasing calls to address the humanitarian crisis and uphold the principles of international law. The tragic loss of UNRWA staff underscores the perilous conditions for aid workers and civilians alike in the region, raising concerns about the safety and security of those seeking refuge from the ongoing conflict.