UNICEF Reports 64 Attacks on Schools in Gaza Last Month

In a troubling report released by UNICEF, it has been revealed that at least 64 attacks targeting schools occurred in the Gaza Strip last month. This alarming statistic translates to nearly two incidents every single day. The violence in October resulted in an estimated 128 deaths, with many of the victims being children. Schools in Gaza, which often serve as shelters for families and children fleeing the ongoing violence, have faced a staggering total of 226 attacks since the conflict reignited on October 7 of last year.

Over the past 14 months, more than one million children have been displaced, enduring unimaginable hardships and trauma. UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, "Schools should never be on the frontlines of war, and children should never be indiscriminately attacked while seeking shelter." She further lamented, "The horrors we are seeing in Gaza are setting a dark precedent for humanity, one where children are hit with bombs at record numbers while looking for safety inside classrooms. Trauma and loss have become their daily norm." This statement highlights the dire circumstances faced by children in conflict zones.

In October alone, nearly half of the attacks—25 in total—were concentrated in northern Gaza, an area that has been subjected to relentless bombardment, widespread displacement, and limited humanitarian aid. Many of these schools also play a crucial role in providing treatment for malnutrition, offering essential services to those in dire need. According to International Humanitarian Law, schools are designated as protected spaces, yet the reality on the ground tells a different story. Since the renewed hostilities began in October 2023, over 95 percent of Gaza’s schools have been partially or completely destroyed. UNICEF reports that 87 percent of these schools will require extensive reconstruction before they can be used again.

The plight of children in Gaza serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for adherence to international laws that protect civilians and civilian infrastructure, especially in conflict zones where the most vulnerable populations bear the brunt of violence and devastation. As the world watches, it is crucial to advocate for the protection of children and their right to education, safety, and a future free from fear. The situation in Gaza is not just a local issue; it is a global concern that calls for immediate action and compassion from the international community.