School Shelter Bombed in Gaza City, Dozens Killed
At least 36 Palestinians, including multiple children, were killed after an Israeli airstrike hit a school sheltering displaced families in Gaza City. According to Gaza’s Health Ministry, the strike caused a massive fire, engulfing the classrooms and leaving charred remains of victims, many of whom were women and children seeking refuge.Al Jazeera
This school had been turned into a civilian shelter amid ongoing Israeli military operations. Eyewitnesses described chaotic scenes as families tried to rescue trapped children from the flames. The Government Media Office in Gaza has labeled the attack as a deliberate targeting of civilians.
International Community Condemns Attack, Spain Hosts Emergency Talks
Amid escalating violence, Spain hosted a summit of foreign ministers from 20 European and Arab nations in Madrid. Spanish officials urged the international community to consider sanctions against Israel, citing continued breaches of international humanitarian law.
During the meeting, emphasis was placed on reviving efforts toward a two-state solution. Spain’s Foreign Minister stated, “The global silence is no longer an option. Action must follow.”
The summit marks the strongest diplomatic pressure yet from Western Europe since the Gaza conflict reignited in October 2023.Al Jazeera
Death Toll in Gaza Surpasses 61,700
The ongoing conflict has led to staggering human loss. According to Gaza’s Health Ministry, at least 53,939 Palestinians have been killed, with another 122,797 wounded. However, Gaza’s Government Media Office now estimates the death toll to exceed 61,700, noting that thousands remain trapped under collapsed buildings.
Meanwhile, the initial Hamas-led attacks on Israel on October 7, 2023, resulted in the deaths of 1,139 people in Israel and the abduction of more than 200 hostages.