UN chief condemns Israel’s ‘devastating strike’ on Gaza school

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has condemned a devastating attack on a Gaza school-turned-shelter, resulting in significant loss of life, including women and children.

The UN Deputy Spokesperson, Farhan Haq, stated that Mr Guterres is dismayed by the continued violence in Gaza, including the recent strike on the Al-Taba’een school, which was sheltering hundreds of displaced Palestinian families.

The incident occurred on Saturday, with reports suggesting over 100 fatalities.

The secretary-general has reiterated his urgent appeal for an immediate ceasefire and the unconditional release of all hostages.

Mr Guterres also emphasized the need to ensure the protection of civilians and unimpeded humanitarian access into and across Gaza, underscoring that international humanitarian law must be upheld at all times.

The UN human rights office reported that this is at least the 21st strike on a school serving as a shelter since 4 July, resulting in at least 274 fatalities, including women and children.

Separately, the head of the UN Palestine refugee agency, UNRWA, highlighted the need to protect civilians, civilian infrastructure, detainees, and humanitarians amid armed conflict.

The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) expressed concern over the increasing number of civilian deaths and rising displacement in Lebanon, amid escalating hostilities between Hezbollah and Israel.

(NAN)