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Tag: Israel

  • Mojtaba Khamenei Named Iran’s New Supreme Leader as War Escalates Across the Middle East

    Mojtaba Khamenei Named Iran’s New Supreme Leader as War Escalates Across the Middle East

    Iranian state media says Mojtaba Khamenei, the son of the late Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, has been appointed as Iran’s new supreme leader, a move that comes as the war involving Iran, Israel and the United States intensifies across the Middle East.

    The announcement early Monday marks a major leadership shift in Tehran after an Israeli strike earlier in the conflict killed Ali Khamenei. Mojtaba Khamenei had long been considered a leading contender for the role despite never having held an elected or formal government position.

    As supreme leader, he will now have ultimate authority over Iran’s military and political strategy, including command influence over the powerful Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, which plays a central role in the ongoing war.

    The Guard pledged allegiance to the new leader in a statement broadcast by Iranian state media, declaring its readiness to carry out his orders as the conflict with Israel and the United States continues.

    The leadership transition comes amid rapidly escalating regional tensions. Iranian missiles were launched toward Israel early Monday, with emergency responders in Rishon LeZion reporting one woman injured by flying debris following the attack. Sirens also sounded across central Israel, including the Tel Aviv metropolitan area.

    Meanwhile, oil markets reacted sharply to the widening conflict. Global crude prices surged past $100 per barrel for the first time in more than three years as disruptions threatened exports from the Persian Gulf. Brent crude oil rose to $109.46 a barrel, while West Texas Intermediate crude traded at $107.37.

    The surge in oil prices rattled financial markets across Asia. Japan’s Nikkei 225 plunged more than six per cent, while South Korea’s Kospi dropped a similar amount as investors reacted to fears of prolonged instability in the energy-producing region.

    The conflict has also spread beyond Iran and Israel. Missile and drone attacks were reported in Qatar and Saudi Arabia, while an oil facility fire broke out in Fujairah Oil Industry Zone in the United Arab Emirates following an attack.

    Israeli forces say they have struck more than 3,400 targets inside Iran since the start of the war, including the headquarters of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps’ air force in Tehran. Israel also said it killed several senior commanders linked to the Guard’s overseas Quds Force during a strike in Beirut.

    Military officials warn the conflict could continue for an extended period. Eyal Zamir, chief of staff of the Israel Defense Forces, told the Israeli public to prepare for a long war.

    Meanwhile, Donald Trump said he expects to have influence over Iran’s future leadership once the war ends. The U.S. president previously described Mojtaba Khamenei as “a lightweight” and warned that any new Iranian leader would struggle to remain in power without international backing.

    Iran’s foreign minister Abbas Araghchi rejected the idea of foreign involvement in choosing the country’s leadership, saying the decision belongs solely to the Iranian people.

    The conflict has already claimed significant casualties and caused widespread displacement across the region. According to monitoring group Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project, more than 1,000 incidents have been recorded across 16 countries during the first week of fighting, with the initial day of the war accounting for more than 40 per cent of reported fatalities.

    As the war spreads across multiple fronts, world leaders are urging restraint. Emmanuel Macron called on Iran to halt its strikes during a phone call with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, while diplomats warn the growing conflict risks destabilizing global energy markets and security across the Middle East.

  • One Year Since the Oct. 7 Attack: Renewed Violence Erupts as Gaza Rockets Target Israel

    One Year Since the Oct. 7 Attack: Renewed Violence Erupts as Gaza Rockets Target Israel

    On the somber anniversary of the Oct. 7 attack, Palestinian militants in Gaza unleashed a barrage of rockets into Israel, escalating tensions in a region still reeling from a year of conflict. This assault occurred amidst memorial ceremonies marking the deadly assault that claimed approximately 1,200 lives and resulted in the abduction of 250 hostages last year.

    The Israeli military responded with a series of airstrikes and artillery fire aimed at thwarting what it described as imminent threats from Hamas. According to military sources, these strikes targeted Hamas launch sites and underground infrastructures, reflecting Israel’s determination to maintain its security in the face of ongoing hostilities.

    As violence reignited, Lebanon’s Health Ministry reported that an Israeli airstrike in southern Lebanon resulted in the deaths of at least ten firefighters. The humanitarian crisis continues to worsen, with local medical officials estimating that around 42,000 Palestinians have been killed since the onset of the conflict, displacing nearly 90% of Gaza’s population.

    In a message of solidarity, Pope Francis addressed the anniversary, emphasizing the urgent need for dialogue and peace. He referred to the “fuse of hatred” that was lit a year ago and called for a day of fasting and prayer. In his letter to Catholics in the Middle East, he expressed particular concern for those suffering in Gaza, including families who have lost children and those who have been forced to flee their homes.

    U.S. President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris also commemorated the tragic day, condemning Hamas’ actions and advocating for ceasefire agreements to alleviate the suffering of innocent civilians. Biden highlighted the need to remember both the victims of the Oct. 7 attacks and the ongoing plight of the Palestinian people, stressing the importance of bringing hostages home safely.

    As military operations continue in both Gaza and southern Lebanon, Israel has issued evacuation warnings to residents in various towns, further escalating the humanitarian crisis in the region. The latest developments signal that the conflict is far from resolution, with tensions escalating amidst a backdrop of violence and tragedy.

    Source: Swifteradio

  • Canada’s Mélanie Joly Urges Ceasefire as Middle East War Intensifies

    Canada’s Mélanie Joly Urges Ceasefire as Middle East War Intensifies

    Amid rising tensions in the Middle East following Iran’s large-scale missile attacks on Israel and subsequent Israeli ground operations in Lebanon, Canada’s Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly declared Tuesday that war has officially broken out in the region. She urged “all parties” to agree to an immediate ceasefire, warning of devastating consequences for civilians if hostilities continue.

    Joly condemned Iran’s missile attacks, stating that they would only destabilize the region further. She reiterated Canada’s strong support for Israel while simultaneously calling for restraint to prevent further escalation. “We unequivocally condemn Iran’s actions,” Joly said, emphasizing the importance of halting violence to protect innocent lives.

    The minister also issued another urgent plea for Canadians in Lebanon to leave immediately. Despite multiple government advisories, Joly admitted that many Canadians have not heeded the warnings, and some have even chosen to travel to the region against government advice.

    Canada Calls for Ceasefire Amid Growing Hostilities

    As the situation intensifies, Joly stressed the need for diplomatic solutions. “There is a war going on right now, both in Israel and Lebanon,” she told reporters in Ottawa. “All parties must engage in diplomacy to prevent further civilian casualties.”

    Canada joined G7 nations and key Middle Eastern allies in calling for a 21-day ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, yet the violence continues to escalate. Joly said that while Israel has a right to defend itself, a ceasefire is the only way forward to avoid more bloodshed.

    “We need to ensure that there is no further escalation,” she stated, “because if this continues, more innocent civilians, including women and children, will die.”

    Lebanese-Canadians Ignoring Evacuation Warnings

    Despite government-chartered flights from Beirut to Istanbul, Joly acknowledged that the evacuation efforts have not seen significant uptake. “I understand it’s a difficult choice,” she said, “but my priority is your safety. If you’re offered a seat, please take it.”

    Immigration Minister Marc Miller echoed Joly’s concerns, revealing that many Lebanese-Canadians are ignoring evacuation advisories. “Some individuals believe they know the risks better than the government’s advice,” Miller noted. “However, that doesn’t diminish our responsibility to help them if the situation worsens.”

    As of Tuesday, only 20,000 of an estimated 45,000 Canadians in Lebanon had registered with consular services, and just 4,000 expressed interest in evacuation assistance. Of the 1,700 contacted with flight options, only a third have accepted the government’s offer.

    Limited Travel Options Out of Beirut

    Travel options out of Lebanon are becoming increasingly limited, as airlines continue to suspend flights. While around 100 commercial flights departed Beirut daily last week, only 50 flights were operational as of Tuesday.

    Ottawa has chartered additional flights to Istanbul with capacity for 1,000 passengers over the next few days. Passengers are charged US$330 (CDN$445) for these flights, with a loan program available to assist Canadians returning home.

    The Canadian government is also considering broader evacuation options, including sea-based operations. Canada has partnered with Australia to contract a passenger ship to facilitate the evacuation of citizens from Lebanon, although this remains a last resort.

    Political Response and Emergency Debate

    In response to the crisis, NDP foreign affairs critic Heather McPherson called for an emergency debate in the House of Commons. With a large Lebanese-Canadian community of up to 400,000, McPherson emphasized the need for Canada to take decisive action. She noted that commercial flight cancellations have left many stranded, and at least two Canadians have already been killed in the conflict.

    Defence Minister Bill Blair expressed growing concern over the situation, particularly following Israel’s recent incursions into Lebanon. Blair remains hopeful that diplomatic efforts will lead to a ceasefire but warned that Canada is prepared to scale up evacuation plans if necessary.

    However, Blair made it clear that Canada would not be sending military assets to the region, stating, “Our focus is on humanitarian aid and the safety of Canadians.”

    As the conflict in the Middle East continues to unfold, Joly’s message remains clear: an immediate ceasefire is critical to prevent further loss of life, and Canadians in Lebanon must leave while they still can.

    Source: Swifteradio.com

  • Israel Conducts Ground Raids Against Hezbollah Amid Tensions on Lebanese Border

    Israel Conducts Ground Raids Against Hezbollah Amid Tensions on Lebanese Border

    Israel has initiated small ground raids against Hezbollah as preparations intensify for a potential larger military operation in Lebanon, according to official reports on Monday.

    A U.S. official confirmed that Israel has kept the United States informed about the ongoing raids, although no specific timeline has been given for a more extensive operation. The U.S. has not instructed Israel to halt its actions in Lebanon, maintaining support for Israel’s right to self-defense.

    A Western diplomat, involved in de-escalation efforts in Cairo, stated that an Israeli ground operation in Lebanon appears “imminent.” The diplomat indicated that Israel has shared its plans with both the U.S. and other Western allies, describing the upcoming operation as likely to be “limited.” Both officials requested anonymity due to the sensitivity surrounding the situation, and the Israeli military has not issued any official comments regarding the operations.

    Hezbollah has declared its readiness to continue fighting, despite suffering significant losses, including the recent deaths of key leaders, including longtime head Hassan Nasrallah.

    In the past ten days, Israeli airstrikes have resulted in the deaths of Nasrallah and six other high-ranking commanders, alongside targeting thousands of militant sites across Lebanon. The Health Ministry reported that over 1,000 individuals have lost their lives in the region in just the past two weeks, with nearly a quarter of those being women and children.

    On Monday, an Israeli airstrike struck a residential building in central Beirut, leading to the destruction of one apartment and damaging others while killing three Palestinian militants. This action illustrates Israel’s intention to assert that no area in Lebanon is off-limits.

    Despite the significant setbacks, Hezbollah’s acting leader Naim Kassem affirmed the group’s resilience in a televised statement, asserting that Israel has failed to diminish their military capabilities. “There are deputy commanders and replacements ready if any commander is injured,” Kassem stated, emphasizing the group’s preparedness for a potential Israeli ground offensive. He also indicated that they anticipate a prolonged conflict.

    Hezbollah has reportedly increased its rocket attacks significantly over the past week, launching several hundred daily, though most have been intercepted or have landed in uninhabited areas. Notably, there have been no Israeli fatalities since two soldiers were killed near the border on September 19.

    The Israeli Defense Minister, Yoav Gallant, addressed troops on Monday, stating, “We will utilize all available capabilities,” hinting at an upcoming ground operation. Concurrently, several European nations have begun withdrawing diplomats and citizens from Lebanon, with Germany dispatching a military plane to evacuate diplomats’ relatives.

    As Israeli forces have frequently targeted Hezbollah’s strongholds in Beirut’s southern suburbs, Monday’s strike represents a deviation from previous engagements, which typically avoided civilian-dense areas. The airstrike reportedly killed three members of the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine, a group that has not been significantly involved in the recent hostilities.

    In another development, Hamas confirmed the death of its top commander in Lebanon, Fatah Sharif, along with his family, during an airstrike on the Al-Buss refugee camp in Tyre, a targeted operation confirmed by the Israeli military.

    With the ongoing conflict, both sides remain engaged in escalating violence, while calls for a ceasefire from the United States and its allies continue to be met with resistance from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

    Source: AP

  • Nasrallah’s Message to Israel: Hezbollah and Iran United Against Aggression

    Nasrallah’s Message to Israel: Hezbollah and Iran United Against Aggression

    In a recent address, Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah delivered a stark warning to Israel, reaffirming the militant group’s alliance with Iran and its readiness for confrontation. As tensions between Israel and Hezbollah escalate, Nasrallah emphasized the strength of their alliance, making it clear that Hezbollah would not stand idly by if Israel continues its operations in the region.

    Nasrallah’s speech highlighted the close coordination between Hezbollah and Iran, particularly in military strategy. He praised Iran’s support in bolstering Hezbollah’s capabilities and reaffirmed their shared objective of countering Israeli and U.S. influence in the Middle East. According to Nasrallah, Hezbollah is prepared to launch a strong response if provoked, signaling the possibility of a wider regional conflict involving Iran.

    At the heart of Nasrallah’s message was a warning: any further Israeli actions could lead to unpredictable consequences, potentially dragging Lebanon and Iran into a broader conflict. However, the speech was not entirely focused on war. Nasrallah also hinted at the possibility of de-escalation, suggesting that Hezbollah might consider scaling back if Israel reduces its military activities, particularly in Gaza and the West Bank.

    The speech has raised concerns in Israel, with military officials reviewing the implications of Nasrallah’s statements. While some Israeli analysts suggest that Nasrallah’s rhetoric is aimed at deterring Israeli actions, others believe that Hezbollah’s readiness for conflict is a serious threat. The close ties between Hezbollah and Iran complicate Israel’s strategic decisions, as any military action could trigger a wider confrontation with Iranian forces.

    Nasrallah’s address has also attracted the attention of the international community. World leaders, including those from the United States and European countries, are urging both sides to avoid escalation and seek diplomatic solutions. The possibility of a full-scale war between Israel and Hezbollah, with Iran’s involvement, has led to heightened diplomatic efforts to prevent further violence.

    In conclusion, Nasrallah’s speech reinforced Hezbollah’s commitment to confronting Israel if necessary, while leaving a narrow path open for diplomacy. The alliance between Hezbollah and Iran remains a critical factor in shaping the region’s geopolitical landscape, with both sides preparing for potential conflict and considering the possibility of negotiation.

    Source:
    The New York Times

  • What’s Next After Nasrallah’s Assassination?: Hezbollah’s Future in Jeopardy

    What’s Next After Nasrallah’s Assassination?: Hezbollah’s Future in Jeopardy

    The recent assassination of Hassan Nasrallah, the longstanding leader of Hezbollah, marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Lebanese militant group. This pivotal event raises critical questions about the potential for a broader and more devastating conflict involving Iran and the United States.

    What’s Next for Hezbollah?

    Hezbollah is currently grappling with profound losses. With its leadership structure heavily compromised due to the assassination of key commanders and disruptions to its communication systems, the organization is in a precarious position. Mohammed Al-Basha, a Middle East security analyst, notes, “The loss of Hassan Nasrallah will have significant implications, potentially destabilizing the group and altering its political and military strategies in the short term.”

    However, any expectation that Hezbollah will abandon its anti-Israel stance is likely misguided. The group has vowed to continue its struggle and has a significant number of fighters—many seasoned veterans from the Syrian conflict—who are now clamoring for retaliation. Hezbollah possesses a substantial arsenal of long-range, precision-guided missiles capable of striking major Israeli cities like Tel Aviv. With internal pressure mounting to act, the timing of any potential attacks will be crucial.

    Should Hezbollah launch a large-scale assault, Israel’s response would likely be severe, potentially leading to catastrophic consequences for Lebanon’s infrastructure and further escalating regional tensions.

    Iran’s Response

    The assassination of Nasrallah is a blow to Iran as much as it is to Hezbollah. The Iranian government has declared five days of mourning and has taken measures to protect its Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, amid fears of further targeted attacks.

    In light of this incident, hardliners within the Iranian regime may feel compelled to retaliate. Iran wields considerable influence over a network of armed militias throughout the Middle East, collectively referred to as the “Axis of Resistance,” which includes groups in Yemen, Syria, and Iraq. Tehran could mobilize these factions to intensify attacks on Israel and U.S. military bases in the region. However, Iran is likely to carefully calibrate its response to avoid escalating the conflict into a full-scale war that it cannot afford.

    Israel’s Military Strategy

    Israel’s military intentions have become unmistakable following the assassination. The Israeli government shows no interest in a ceasefire, as proposed by 12 nations, including the United States. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) believe Hezbollah is on the defensive and aim to maintain pressure until the missile threat is neutralized.

    A ground invasion seems increasingly probable, especially given the IDF’s recent troop training exercises near the Lebanese border. However, while entering Lebanon might be operationally straightforward, extracting forces could become complicated, potentially mirroring the prolonged conflict in Gaza.

    In Nasrallah’s final public address, he described an Israeli incursion as “a historic opportunity” for Hezbollah, indicating that the group has been preparing for this scenario for years.

    As these tensions unfold, the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East remains uncertain, with implications that could reverberate far beyond Lebanon’s borders. The coming days will be crucial in determining the responses of Hezbollah, Iran, and Israel, shaping the region’s future.

    Source: BBC

  • Israel, Gaza, Hamas, and Hezbollah: Live Updates on the Growing Conflict

    Israel, Gaza, Hamas, and Hezbollah: Live Updates on the Growing Conflict

    The New York Times provides live updates on the ongoing situation involving Israel, Gaza, Hamas, and Hezbollah. The conflict has escalated with increased airstrikes, rocket attacks, and military confrontations. Both Hamas and Hezbollah are stepping up their operations against Israel, with Israel responding forcefully to these actions.

    Key Developments:

    • Rocket Attacks and Airstrikes: Hamas has launched multiple rockets from Gaza, prompting Israeli airstrikes in retaliation. The cycle of violence is intensifying, raising fears of a broader regional conflict.
    • Hezbollah’s Involvement: Hezbollah has increased its activities along Israel’s northern border, adding another layer to the conflict. The group’s engagement highlights the wider regional implications of the ongoing tension.
    • Civilian Impact: Civilians in both Israel and Gaza are facing dire consequences from the escalations. There have been reports of casualties and widespread damage in heavily populated areas.

    Global Reactions: International bodies are calling for restraint, though diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the conflict have yet to show significant progress.

    Source:
    The New York Times

  • Hamas Leader Killed On Third Day Of West Bank Operation, Says Israel

    The military in Israel announced it had killed the head of the Palestinian armed group Hamas in Jenin and two other members of the terrorist group, as a major operation continued for a third day in the northern occupied West Bank. 

    Israeli security forces “encountered and eliminated” Wissam Khazemi in a vehicle, then carried out airstrikes on two other fighters as they tried to flee, according to a statement. 

    The Palestinian Ministry of Health said the three men were killed overnight near the town of Zababdeh, southeast of Jenin. 

    Reports according to Palestinian media said that Israeli forces withdrew from Tulkarem after causing serious damage to buildings and infrastructure in the city’s refugee camps.

    The Israeli military had no immediate comment but said on Thursday it had killed five members of the armed groups in Tulkarem, including its local leader.  

    The Israeli army, however, announced that its forces had withdrawn from the al-Faraa refugee camp, near Tuba, after achieving what it called the objective of defeating terrorism, uncovering the terrorist infrastructure and eliminating armed terrorists. 

    More than 19 Palestinians have been killed since the Israeli operation started, which is one of the largest in the West Bank in two decades, according to the Palestinian Ministry of Health. 

    As the war in Gaza rages, it is causing international concern. 

    On Friday, the UK said it was “deeply worried by the methods Israel has employed and by reports of civilian casualties and the destruction of civilian infrastructure”.

    “The risk of instability is serious and the need for de-escalation urgent,” a Foreign Office spokesperson said.

    The UN Secretary General, Antonio Guterres warned on Thursday that the raids were “fuelling an already explosive situation”.

    Violence has increased in the West Bank since Hamas’ deadly attack on Israel on October 7 and following the war in Gaza. 

    Several Palestinians were killed as Israeli forces stepped up raids, saying they were trying to stop deadly Palestinian attacks on Israelis in the West Bank and Israel.

     

    Source: BBC News

  • UN Calls For Calm After Attacks Between Israel And Hezbollah

    UN Secretary-General António Guterres said he was “deeply concerned” by the most significant cross-border attacks carried out by Israel and the Lebanese Hezbollah movement since the start of  the war in Gaza. 

    Israeli warplanes struck dozens of sites in southern Lebanon on Sunday in what they said were pre-emptive strikes to prevent a much wider attack, and Hezbollah fired hundreds of missiles and drones at Israel. 

    The UN boss cautioned that their actions put civilians at risk and threatened regional security and stability.

    The United States has said it is working to avoid a further escalation of hostilities, and both sides have indicated they are not interested in such a situation. 

    There have been exchanges of fire almost every day on the Israeli-Lebanese border since the day after the war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza began on October 7. 

    Hezbollah said it is acting in support of the Palestinian group. The two groups are supported by Iran and are considered terrorist organizations by Israel, the United Kingdom and other countries.  

    Since October, more than 560 people have been killed, most of them Hezbollah fighters according to the Lebanese Ministry of Health, while 26 civilians and 24 soldiers have been killed in Israel, according to authorities.  

    Close to 200,000 people were also  displaced on both sides of the border.  

    The Israeli attack on Hezbollah began before dawn on Sunday, when the military said about 100 warplanes bombed thousands of missile launchers at more than 40 locations in southern Lebanon.

    The Israeli military said the strikes were launched after the discovery of “extensive preparations” for a large-scale Hezbollah airstrike.  

    Hezbollah said two of its fighters were lost in the attacks, along with another fighter from the allied Amal movement.  

    Hezbollah said 11 military installations were targeted and hit in Israel and the occupied Golan Heights with 340 missiles and a “large number” of drones.

    It said the barrage was in response to the assassination of senior military commander Fuad Shukr, killed in an Israeli strike in Beirut on July 30. 

    The Israeli forces said it had intercepted “numerous threats” fired by Hezbollah and that the shells that landed caused “little damage.” 

    However, it also said a navy soldier had been killed in the fighting in northern Israel, with local media saying he was on a patrol boat when an interceptor missile engaged a drone.

    On Sunday evening, Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah addressed his supporters, who seemed to want an end to the escalation, in a televised broadcast.  

    He said the group’s “initial response” to the retaliation for Shukr’s killing had gone “as planned,” though he said its impact was still being evaluated.

    “If the result is not sufficient, we will reserve the right to respond at another time,” he said.

    In the meantime, he said further, the people of Lebanon “can be at ease and carry on with their lives, as the country has been in tension for a month now”.

    Earlier, Israel’s prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, informed a cabinet meeting that “what happened today is not the end of the story”.

    “We are striking Hezbollah with surprising crushing blows,” he said. “Three weeks ago, we eliminated its chief-of-staff and today we thwarted its attack plan.”

    “Nasrallah in Beirut and [Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali] Khamenei in Tehran need to know that this is an additional step in changing the situation in the north, and returning our residents securely to their homes.”

    The UN secretary-general called for an “immediate de-escalation” and asked the parties to return urgently and immediately to the cessation of hostilities, a spokesman said. 

    White House National Security Adviser, Jake Sullivan expressed hope that Sunday’s events would not lead to a regional war.

     

    Source: BBC News

  • Israeli Strike On Gaza School Kills More Than 12 People, Says Civil Defence

    No less than 12 Palestinians were killed in an Israeli airstrike on a school hosting displaced people in Gaza, Hamas’s Civil Defense Authority said.

    A spokesman said rescue teams were trying to find a number of missing people who were believed to be trapped under the rubble of the Mustafa Hafez school in the western neighborhood of Rimal.

    The Israeli military said it  targeted a Hamas command and control center at the school and took measures to mitigate the risk of civilian harm. 

    Earlier, it announced that troops had found the bodies of six Israeli hostages held in the Khan Younis area. 

    The men were among  251 people kidnapped by Hamas-led gunmen during the October 7 attacks in  southern Israel last year, in which about 1,200 people were also killed.

    Israel launched an air and ground campaign to destroy Hamas in response, during which more than 40,170 people were killed in Gaza, according to the Hamas territory’s  health ministry.

    Women and children can be heard screaming and seen running from the dust-covered Mustafa Hafez school in a video posted on social media showing the immediate aftermath of the strike on Tuesday morning.

    The camera then pans to the ruins on the ground, next to the completely flattened remains of a two-story building. 

    “We were sitting safely, we did not see the explosion,” witness Umm Mohammed later told Reuters news agency.

    “The people are gone, they’re dead. They are under the rubble.”

    Civil Defense spokesman Mahmoud Basal said in the afternoon that rescue teams had recovered the bodies of up to 12 people.  

    He said the attack had targeted the entire wing of the school, where he said 700 displaced people live. 

    The Israeli military said the jets carried out a “a precise strike on terrorists who were operating within a Hamas command and control centre” that was embedded in the school and used to plan and launch attacks against its troops and Israel. 

    “Before the attack, numerous measures were taken to mitigate the risk of civilian harm, including the use of precision munitions, aerial surveillance and additional intelligence,” it added.

    The Israeli military has accused Hamas of violating international law by operating inside civilian infrastructure and exploiting Gaza’s civilian population, allegations Hamas has previously denied.

    Earlier in the month, the United Nations Human Rights Office condemned what it called the “increasing frequency” of Israeli attacks on schools that host displaced people and accused the Israeli army of carrying out with apparent disregard for the high number of civilian deaths.

    The warning came after at least 70 Palestinians were killed in an airstrike on the al-Taba’een school in Gaza City, according to the director of a local hospital.

    The Israeli military said the school had served as an active military installation of Hamas and Islamic Jihad and that it had confirmed the identities of the 31 “terrorists” who were killed.

    The UN said at the time that it was at least the 21st attack on a school  shelter since July 4 and left at least 274 dead.

    Source: BBC News