The Palestinian Return Centre (PRC) in London vehemently condemns the deadly attacks by Israeli forces on schools in Gaza that have been turned into shelters for displaced persons.

These shocking and horrific strikes are a blatant violation of international humanitarian law and a grave threat to the safety and well-being of innocent civilians.

In the latest horrific incidents that occurred over the past few days, Israeli airstrikes targeted displaced Palestinian families sheltering in Al-Nasr and Hassan Salameh schools in northern Gaza City, resulting in the tragic deaths of at least 25 Palestinians and injuring dozens more.

The attacks did not stop there. Hamama School, located in the Sheikh Radwan area of Gaza City, housing displaced Palestinians, was also targeted, leading to the deaths of at least 15 individuals and causing numerous injuries.

The scenes at the hospitals have been described as chaotic, with injured civilians lying on the floors as mourning Palestinians crowded the hallways.

Eyewitnesses reported that these devastating raids occurred without prior warning, leaving no time for the civilians to seek safety.

PRC is deeply concerned about the effect of these strikes on children and vulnerable people. Schools, which should be safe havens for education and refuge, have become targets of indiscriminate Israeli violence. The trauma inflicted on the children and other vulnerable individuals is immeasurable, as they witness and experience the horrors of war firsthand. The attacks on these shelters not only cause immediate physical harm but also have long-lasting psychological effects on the survivors, especially the young and vulnerable.

We call upon the international community to take immediate and decisive action to stop these brutal attacks and hold Israel accountable for its actions. The targeting of schools and shelters is a clear violation of the principles of distinction and proportionality under international humanitarian law.

PRC urges all relevant bodies, including the United Nations and the International Criminal Court, to investigate these crimes and ensure that justice is served.

PRC stands in solidarity with the people of Gaza and reaffirms its commitment to advocating for their rights and protection. We call on all humanitarian organizations and governments to provide urgent assistance to the affected families and to work towards a just and lasting resolution to the conflict that respects the dignity and rights of the Palestinian people.