Secretary of State Antony Blinken has echoed an unverified Israeli claim regarding the strike on a school in Gaza that killed at least 18 people, including six UN employees. Despite calling on Israel to protect humanitarian sites, Blinken suggested Hamas soldiers were using the school as a command center, justifying Israel’s attack. However, Israeli officials have not provided substantial evidence to support this claim, using similar excuses to continue their atrocities in Gaza.
The attack on the UNRWA worker in the West Bank, where Hamas is inactive, led to the suspension of operations. The UN refuted Israel’s allegations of Hamas activity in the school, highlighting the lack of evidence. Blinken and Israeli forces neglected crucial details such as the school’s designated safe zone and humanitarian status, further complicating the situation.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for an independent investigation into the strike, emphasizing the need for accountability. The escalating aggression against UNRWA workers in Gaza and the West Bank raises concerns over Israel’s targeting practices and the safety of Palestinian civilians.
As the region faces ongoing conflict and humanitarian crises, international scrutiny and accountability remain vital in addressing the root causes of violence and protecting vulnerable populations.