Recent Israeli airstrikes in Gaza have resulted in significant civilian casualties, particularly among children. On April 3, 2025, an Israeli airstrike targeted the Dar al-Arqam school in Gaza City, which was serving as a shelter for displaced Palestinians. This attack led to at least 27 deaths and around 100 injuries, with many of the victims being children. The Israeli military claimed the building housed a Hamas control center and stated precautions were taken to minimize civilian harm.

This incident is part of a broader pattern of attacks on civilian shelters in Gaza. On October 14, 2024, Israeli shelling of the al-Mufti school in central Gaza resulted in at least 22 deaths, including 15 children, and injuries to over 80 people. The school was being used as a shelter for displaced Palestinians.

Furthermore, reports indicate that 80% of casualties in Israeli strikes on Gaza schools were children. Israeli forces bombed two schools in Gaza City, resulting in the deaths of dozens, primarily children. The Palestinian Civil Defence reported that 80% of the victims were children.

These attacks have drawn international condemnation. The Guardian editorial condemned the killing of 15 Palestinian paramedics and rescue workers by Israeli forces on March 23, describing the incident as a chilling war crime amid a devastating conflict in Gaza.

The consistent targeting of civilian structures, including schools and shelters, has resulted in a high toll on children in Gaza. These actions have raised serious concerns about compliance with international humanitarian law and the protection of civilians in conflict zones.