In Gaza, schools and ‘safe zones’ under Israeli attack
Jul 18, 2024
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Al Jazeera Reporter Maram Humaid and Journalist Mahmoud Alshawa discuss the bombing of UNRWA-run schools in Gaza, the challenges of reporting in conflict zones, and the struggle for safety amidst targeted attacks. They highlight the devastating impact on civilians and the emotional toll of living in a war-torn region.
Israeli forces have bombed UNRWA schools in Gaza, undermining safe spaces for civilians.
Attacks on UNRWA facilities jeopardize humanitarian aid efforts, endangering Palestinian refugees in Gaza.
Deep dives
Israel Targets UNRWA Schools in Gaza
Israeli forces have bombed eight UNRWA schools in Gaza in the past two weeks, disrupting the safety of these spaces. The schools, intended to be safe havens, were attacked despite being run by a neutral organization providing aid. The shelters lacked adequate facilities for the hundreds of displaced people, leading to dire living conditions. The continuous targeting of UNRWA schools challenges the perception of safe spaces in Gaza.
Destruction of UNRWA's Headquarters in Gaza City
Israeli forces completely destroyed UNRWA's headquarters in Gaza City, following a series of attacks against the agency. The sustained assaults on UNRWA, labeling it as a terrorist organization and targeting its facilities, impact its ability to serve refugees in Gaza. The attacks signify a deliberate effort to undermine humanitarian aid efforts in the region, provoking concerns for the safety and well-being of Palestinian civilians.
Safety Concerns and Hopelessness in Gaza
The targeting of supposed safe zones by Israel has eroded trust among Gazans, leading to a sense of hopelessness and vulnerability. The continuous bombings and displacement of people highlight the lack of secure spaces in the region. The escalation of violence and disregard for humanitarian facilities depict a grim reality where survival and safety are uncertain for Palestinians in Gaza.
Schools run by UNRWA, the UN refugee agency for Palestinian refugees, have been havens for civilians fleeing Israeli bombing in Gaza. But a string of UNRWA-run schools sheltering displaced Palestinians have been bombed and the agency’s headquarters in Gaza City was destroyed. Where can Palestinians find safety?
This episode was produced by Sarí el-Khalili, Khaled Soltan, and Ashish Malhotra, with Veronique Eshaya, Mohammed Zain Shafi Khan, Duha Mosaad, Manahil Naveed, and our host, Malika Bilal.
Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Joe Plourde mixed this episode. Our lead of audience development and engagement is Aya Elmileik. Munera Al Dosari and Adam Abou-Gad are our engagement producers.
Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Ney Alvarez is Al Jazeera's head of audio.