UN Condemns Airstrike on Gaza Aid Center as Potential War Crime Amid High Casualties
Attack on UNRWA School in Nuseirat Raises International Outcry Amidst Ceasefire Efforts
Anne Martin 4 June 2025
An Israeli airstrike on a United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) school, which was reportedly sheltering displaced civilians in Nuseirat, central Gaza, has resulted in a new wave of significant casualties. Preliminary reports from Hamas medical sources, conveyed by the Palestinian news agency Wafa, indicate that at least 39 individuals were killed in the incident, a figure that includes both women and children. The school facility had been serving as a refuge for those displaced by the ongoing conflict.
Philippe Lazzarini, the Commissioner-General for UNRWA, promptly addressed the attack, stating unequivocally that the school was “hit without prior warning to displaced people.” Lazzarini underscored the gravity of the situation by calling for a thorough and independent investigation into the incident, demanding accountability for those responsible. He also reiterated the critical importance of upholding international law, particularly concerning the protection of civilian infrastructure and non-combatants in conflict zones. This devastating event unfolded as U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken was engaged in the region, actively pursuing efforts towards a ceasefire.
In response to the accusations, the Israeli military issued a statement asserting that the strike had precisely targeted a Hamas compound located within the school. They claimed the operation was a “precise strike” against “terrorists” who had participated in the October 7 attacks. However, Stéphane Dujarric, the spokesperson for the United Nations, offered a strong condemnation, stating that attacks on UN premises are “unacceptable” and could constitute “war crimes.” Dujarric further emphasized the inviolable status of UN sites, pointing out that the UN has consistently shared the coordinates of its facilities with all involved parties on numerous occasions to prevent such incidents. Data provided by the UN paints a grim picture, indicating that more than 450 displaced individuals have been killed while seeking refuge in UNRWA shelters since October 7, and over 180 UNRWA facilities have been impacted by hostilities during the same period. In light of the recent tragedy, Algeria has formally requested an urgent session of the United Nations Security Council to deliberate on the latest massacre in Gaza.
#GazaAttack #UNRWA #WarCrime #Nuseirat #HumanitarianCrisis #InternationalLaw #UNSecurityCouncil
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