International condemnation erupted on Saturday after an Israeli airstrike on a school in Gaza City claimed the lives of over 90 displaced civilians.
The Al-Tabieen religious school and mosque, targeted in the strike, resulted in one of the deadliest incidents in the ongoing conflict, with Gaza’s civil defense agency reporting at least 93 casualties, including 17 women and children.
The Israeli military defended the attack, asserting that “precision munitions” were used to strike what they described as an active military facility for Hamas and Islamic Jihad. According to Israeli sources, the strike eliminated at least 19 militants.
The White House expressed deep concern over the reports of civilian casualties and called for more information on the incident. The U.S. administration reiterated the urgency of securing a ceasefire and a hostage deal, emphasizing that they continue to work diligently towards these goals.
British Foreign Minister David Lammy condemned the attack, describing it as a “tragic loss of life” and reiterating the need for an immediate ceasefire to safeguard civilians, release hostages, and facilitate aid delivery.
France, echoing similar sentiments, condemned the repeated targeting of schools in Gaza, stating that the civilian toll was “intolerable.” The French foreign ministry urged Israel to adhere to international humanitarian law.
EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell shared his horror at the images emerging from the strike, noting that at least 10 schools have been hit in recent weeks, and called the incidents unjustifiable massacres.
Switzerland and Spain also expressed alarm, stressing the importance of respecting international humanitarian law and the need for protective measures as outlined by the International Court of Justice.
Qatar, an active mediator in the conflict, called for an urgent investigation into the continued targeting of schools and shelters for displaced people. Egypt criticized the strike as a violation of international and humanitarian law, accusing Israel of showing no willingness to end the conflict.
Russia, Iran, Lebanon’s Hezbollah, Yemen’s Huthis, and Gulf Cooperation Council leaders added their voices to the growing condemnation, with some labeling the attack as a “horrific massacre” and “war crimes,” while urging international action to support the Palestinian people.
Kuwait called for immediate intervention from the international community and the UN Security Council to halt what they described as heinous crimes against a defenseless population.
