Human Rights Watch has condemned Israel’s bombing of more than 500 schools in Gaza, many of which were sheltering displaced Palestinians, since the assault began on 7 October 2023. The strikes have killed hundreds and left every targeted school either destroyed or severely damaged, erasing what little civilian refuge remained in the besieged enclave.

The organisation warns that the attacks form part of a wider campaign dismantling Gaza’s remaining infrastructure, forcing the displaced into yet another wave of homelessness and deepening an already catastrophic humanitarian crisis. With most of Gaza’s population uprooted, there are no truly safe places left.

HRW says the destruction will cripple Gaza’s education system for years, depriving children of learning and communities of stability. It is urging a halt to arms supplies to Israel and the enforcement of the UN Genocide Convention to hold those responsible accountable.