According to UNICEF, there were 64 documented attacks on schools in Gaza last month

Data released on Saturday by UNICEF and its partners shows that there were 64 documented attacks on schools in the Gaza Strip last month, with roughly two instances per day on average. The October strikes killed over 128 people, the majority of whom were youngsters, according to the research. 

Since the crisis started on October 7th, last year, 226 attacks have targeted these schools, which frequently serve as sanctuaries for displaced families and children escaping violence. Over the past 14 months, more than 1 million children have been forced to leave their homes, subjected to unspeakable suffering and anguish, according to UNICEF. Children should never be randomly attacked as they seek shelter, and schools should never be at the forefront of a conflict, stated UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell.

Tragically, a new standard for humankind is being set by the atrocities unfolding in Gaza, where an unprecedented number of youngsters are being bombed as they seek shelter in classrooms. They now routinely experience trauma and loss. A total of 25 attacks occurred in October, with nearly half of those incidents occurring in northern Gaza. This region is under constant bombardment, has seen large-scale displacement, and has limited access to humanitarian relief.

A lot of these schools also provide vital services to people who are malnourished, so they're double-duty. Under international humanitarian law, schools are designated as safe havens. The majority of Gaza's educational institutions have been either entirely or partially damaged or destroyed since the conflict resumed in October 2023. UNICEF estimates that 87% will require substantial repair work before they can be utilized once more.

Children in Gaza, according to UNICEF, are among the most defenseless people on Earth, and their suffering highlights the critical importance of following international conventions meant to safeguard civilians and civilian infrastructure, especially in areas experiencing armed conflict.