Israeli strike hits Gaza school shelter

An Israeli airstrike struck a school shelter in Gaza City's al-Tuffah neighborhood, killing at least 11 people, including children, as the building caught fire during the attack. This incident occurred amid a broader escalation of Israeli military operations across the Gaza Strip. On April 24 alone, several airstrikes in different parts of Gaza reportedly killed at least 28 people, with hospitals in Gaza reporting that many of the victims were women and children. Targets included a police station in Jabaliya, residential areas in Khan Younis, central Gaza, and Gaza City.

The humanitarian situation in Gaza has worsened amid a strict blockade that has led to severe shortages of essential supplies. Concerns over a looming humanitarian crisis have prompted foreign ministers from the UK, France, and Germany to urge Israel to allow humanitarian aid, warning of imminent risks of starvation and disease.

Diplomatic efforts to negotiate a ceasefire led by Qatari and Egyptian mediators remain stalled despite proposals that include a five- to seven-year truce and the release of remaining Israeli hostages. However, key issues, such as the disarmament of Hamas and the withdrawal of Israeli troops, continue to obstruct progress.

Since the conflict ignited on October 7, 2023, the violence has so far claimed the lives of over 51,000 Palestinians—mostly women and children—according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. Israel, for its part, asserts that it has killed 20,000 militants, though it has not provided substantiating evidence. The widespread presence of unexploded ordnance across Gaza further endangers civilians and restricts humanitarian operations. The United States has even described the territory as "uninhabitable" due to the high risk posed by these dangerous remnants.

In addition to the violence, scenes of destruction are evident, with damaged houses and collapsed buildings scattered throughout Gaza City following Israeli strikes.