German politician says Israeli attack on Gaza school appalling, 'cannot be justified'

GENEVA

German left-wing politician Janine Wissler on Wednesday said a recent Israeli attack on Al-Awda school in Gaza, which was being used to shelter the displaced, is "appalling," calling it a "violation" of international humanitarian law.

"Israel's attack on a school in the Gaza Strip is appalling and cannot be justified in any way," Janine Wissler said on X.

"Bombing civilians who have sought refuge in a school is a violation of international humanitarian law," Wissler said, adding that an immediate cease-fire is "necessary."

During its offensive on Gaza since last October, Israel has repeatedly hit civilian facilities such as schools, hospitals, and places of worship. Under the rules of war, such facilities are off limits to attacks, which could be a war crime.

At least 29 people were killed in Tuesday's airstrike on the school in the town of Abasan al-Kabira, east of Khan Younis.

Besides more than 38,000 casualties, Israeli actions have triggered mass displacement, destruction and an ongoing trial over alleged genocide at the International Court of Justice.