Israeli Airstrike on Gaza School: Humanitarian Crisis Escalates Amid Ongoing Conflict

An Israeli airstrike on the Al-Falouja School in the northern Gaza Strip killed at least 14 people, including displaced families. The military claimed the target was a Hamas militant command center. The conflict continues with significant casualties on both sides as diplomatic efforts for peace show little progress.

An Israeli airstrike killed at least 14 people at Al-Falouja School in the northern Gaza Strip, including displaced families seeking shelter, Palestinian medics reported on Thursday. The Israeli military stated the attack targeted militants using the compound.

Following the missile strike at the Jabalia camp, Gaza's health ministry and the Civil Emergency Service reported several individuals wounded and others missing. The military accused Hamas of using civilian buildings for military purposes, a claim Hamas denies.

With the war in Gaza persisting and Israel's northern front with Hezbollah in Lebanon escalating, Gaza health authorities confirmed over 41,400 Palestinian deaths due to the nearly year-old offensive, initiated after Hamas attacks on Oct. 7 last year. Recent overnight strikes resulted in at least 31 additional deaths, and militant groups continued to retaliate with mortar attacks on Israeli forces.

Local residents reported Israeli forces demolishing homes in Rafah and Zeitoun, with no immediate Israeli comment on these operations. Meanwhile, diplomatic negotiations for a ceasefire have achieved minimal progress, as Israel demands Hamas's total defeat.

International calls for a ceasefire have increased, with the U.S., France, and allies advocating for a 21-day halt to hostilities along the Israel-Lebanon border. Palestinians hope peace in Lebanon might extend to Gaza, spurred by assurances from Hezbollah's leader to cease attacks if the conflict in Gaza ends.

(With inputs from agencies.)