A statement issued here described the new attack on the Tabeen School in Gaza City, where hundreds of Palestinian families live, as devastating.
The text calls on Israel and Hamas to return to negotiations and calls for the protection of civilians and the unhindered and safe access of humanitarian aid to and through the Strip.
The memorandum added that international humanitarian law, including the principles of distinction, proportionality and precautions in attacks, must be respected at all times.
Guterres welcomed the mediation efforts of the United States, Egypt and Qatar, while insisting on his calls for a ceasefire and the release of hostages.
The UN human rights office said Saturday’s attack added to a growing wave of attacks by Tel Aviv against educational centres where hundreds of thousands of forcibly displaced Palestinians are taking refuge.
The agency denounced in a statement that the Tabeen School was bombed at least three times, “in clear disregard for the high rate of civilian deaths.”
Since 4 July, the UN has recorded 21 attacks on shelters, leaving at least 274 people dead, including women and children.
According to the main human rights body, the current attack indicates a blatant failure to comply with obligations imposed by international humanitarian law.
The office said that internally displaced people in Gaza are facing unspeakable horror after 10 months of hostilities, including multiple forced movements, the rapid spread of disease, and continued denial of access to basic necessities of life.
Other data from the United Nations confirms that 90% of Gaza’s population – estimated at 2.3 million people – have been displaced up to ten times since October 7, when hostilities broke out.
For its part, local authorities estimate that more than 39,000 Palestinians have been killed and 91,000 wounded in the ongoing war.
Omani Riyal/EBR
“Unapologetic tv specialist. Hardcore zombie trailblazer. Infuriatingly humble problem solver.”