UN Sec-Gen Condemns Israel's Airstrike On Gaza School Shelter

HAMILTON (Canada), Aug 13 (Bernama-Anadolu) -- United Nations (UN) Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Monday condemned Israel's weekend airstrike on a school shelter in Gaza City that killed at least 100 forcefully displaced people.

"The Secretary-General condemns the continued loss of life in Gaza, including women and children, as we witness yet another devastating strike by Israel on the Al-Tab'een school in Gaza City, sheltering hundreds of displaced Palestinian families with scores of fatalities amidst continued horror, displacement, and suffering in Gaza," UN deputy spokesman Farhan Haq told a news conference.

Saying that Guterres is "dismayed to see that the provisions of UN Security Council Resolution 2735 remain unimplemented," the UN chief welcomed “the mediation efforts of the United States, Egypt and Qatar leaders, and urges both sides to rejoin negotiations and conclude the ceasefire and hostages release deal."

Guterres reiterated his "urgent appeal for an immediate ceasefire and the unconditional release of all hostages."

"He also again underscores the need to ensure the protection of civilians and for unimpeded and safe humanitarian access into and across Gaza.

"The Secretary-General underlines that international humanitarian law, including the principles of distinction, proportionality and precautions in attack, must be upheld at all times," Haq added.

At least 100 people were killed and many injured Saturday when Israeli aircraft targeted Palestinians performing fajr (dawn) prayers at the Al-Tab'een school in Gaza City’s Al-Daraj neighbourhood.

-- BERNAMA-ANADOLU