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Middle East Crisis Israel Says It Struck School Complex in Gaza; Palestinian Authorities Say Dozens Dead

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Israel Strikes School in Gaza City, Kills Dozens #

Israel’s military has carried out airstrikes on a school compound in Gaza City, resulting in multiple deaths. The compound, known as Al-Tabin, was being used as both a shelter and as a headquarters for Hamas. Videos posted on social media showed the aftermath, with injured people being carried and bodies missing limbs. The strike is part of Israel’s escalated attacks in Gaza, targeting areas where Hamas fighters have regrouped. The United Nations Human Rights Office has condemned the attacks on schools and expressed horror at the escalating pattern. Hamas denies using the school as a base of operations.

White House Criticizes Israeli Minister for Opposing Cease-fire #

The White House has rebuked Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich for his opposition to a cease-fire proposed by the United States. The White House condemned Smotrich’s claims as “ridiculous charges” and criticized him for impugning President Biden’s support for Israel. As part of the cease-fire agreement, Israel would exchange hostages held by Hamas for a cessation of hostilities and the release of Palestinians in Israeli prisons. Smotrich and other right-wing cabinet members have threatened to quit if the deal is signed, calling it a dangerous trap.

US Continues Aid to Israeli Military Unit Accused of Abuses #

The Biden administration has decided not to block security assistance to an Israeli military unit that was found to have committed human rights violations. The unit, known as Netzah Yehuda, was under scrutiny for abuses in the Israeli-occupied West Bank. Israel took remedial steps, satisfying the criteria set by the Leahy Law, which bans assistance to foreign troops involved in gross human rights violations. The State Department found that the unit’s violations had been effectively remediated and it could continue to receive US security assistance. Israel has also taken measures to prevent further offenses, including enhanced screening for recruits.