Israeli strike on school sheltering displaced Gazans kills at least 80, Palestinian officials say
PBS NewsHourAug 17
Israeli Airstrike on Gaza School Kills Dozens
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The Facts
More than 100 people were killed and dozens more were injured after an Israeli airstrike hit a school in Gaza, the Hamas-run government of the enclave said on Saturday. Israel has disputed that death toll.
Meanwhile, Israel Defense Forces (IDF) acknowledged striking the Al-Taba'een school in Gaza City's Daraj neighborhood, alleging that it hit Hamas "terrorists" operating within a Hamas command and control center.
The Spin
Pro-Israel narrative
This was a Hamas and Islamic Jihad command and control center that was used to direct terrorist attacks against Israel. The IDF took maximal steps to avoid civilian harm before striking the site with precision weapons. Responsibility lies with Hamas for exploiting Palestinians as human shields for its illegal activities.
Pro-Palestine narrative
As Palestinians, including women and children, performed morning prayers, Israel carried out another brutal massacre. By continuing to attack schools, mosques, and other civilian sites, Israel continues to act with complete disregard for humanity and the norms of international law.