Maldives condemns Israel’s attack on Gaza school amid congregational prayer

Maldivian government has strongly condemned Israel’s bombing of Al-Tabi’in School in Gaza, resulting in the deaths of over 100 displaced Palestinians who had been forced to take shelter at the school. 

In a statement on Saturday, the government said such genocidal actions targeting civilians, including children, is a clear breach of the fundamental principles of international law and international humanitarian law, and the 2610 resolution of the UN Security Council.

The government also reiterated its call upon the international community to take decisive measures to stop these attacks on innocent civilians and work towards achieving lasting peace for the people of Palestine.

The government also reaffirmed that Maldives and its people remain resolute in supporting the people of Palestine in their legitimate pursuit to attain their inalienable rights, including the right to self-determination and statehood.

Over 100 Palestinians were killed, and several were injured when Israeli aircraft targeted worshippers performing Fajr prayers in congregation at the Al-Tabin School in the Al-Daraj neighborhood early on Saturday.

The Israeli military said its air forces struck a “command and control centre” that “served as a hideout for Hamas terrorists and commanders" without providing any proof. It also said that the civilian casualty figures given by Palestinian authorities were inaccurate.

Gaza’s Ministry of Health said on Saturday that at least 39,790 people have been killed and 92,002 wounded in Israel’s war on the enclave since Hamas' cross-border attack on Israel back in October of last year.