Israeli Air Strike Near Gaza School Kills At Least 10, Injuries Reported In Central Gaza

An Israeli air strike resulted in the deaths of at least 10 individuals and injured several others near a school housing displaced Palestinians in central Gaza. The incident occurred on Monday near the Maghazi refugee camp.

Clashes between Palestinians and an Israeli-backed militia reportedly preceded the strike. Medics and residents indicated that the militia had reportedly attacked the school in an attempt to abduct individuals. Witnesses stated that Israeli drones fired two missiles during these clashes, causing the casualties.

Casualties Confirmed, Conflicting Claims Emerge

Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital confirmed at least 10 fatalities and dozens injured, with six in critical condition, due to shelling and clashes east of Maghazi refugee camp. A resident, Ahmed al-Maghazi, stated that residents attempted to defend their homes and were directly targeted.

The leader of the Israeli-backed militia later claimed in a video that they killed five Hamas members. Al Jazeera indicated it could not independently verify this claim, and there was no immediate comment from Hamas.

Maghazi Refugee Camp: A 'Safe Zone' Under Fire

The Maghazi refugee camp was designated as a 'safe zone' by the Israeli military during the conflict in Gaza.

According to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinians in the Near East (UNRWA), it was one of the smaller refugee camps with approximately 30,000 residents. This population more than tripled in the initial months of the conflict.

Despite its 'safe zone' designation, the camp has been targeted in multiple strikes. One such attack in December 2023 reportedly killed over 100 people, predominantly displaced women and children.

Related Incident: WHO Staff Member Killed

Separately, a staff member from the World Health Organization (WHO) was reported killed in Gaza, and several others injured. Their vehicle was reportedly fired upon by the Israeli army, according to sources including an Al Jazeera correspondent.