OIC Media Observatory Reports Surge In Israeli Attacks On Shelters For Displaced People In Gaza

The Organization of Islamic Cooperation’s (OIC) Media Observatory has reported a significant increase in Israeli attacks on shelters for displaced individuals in the Gaza Strip from September 17 to 23, 2024. During this period, 229 Palestinians were killed and 501 were injured. The total number of Palestinian casualties since the beginning of the conflict has reached 42,147 deaths and 101,568 injuries.

In a span of just three days, Israeli forces carried out 12 massacres, resulting in the deaths of 119 Palestinians and injuries to 209 others. One such attack targeted Al-Falah School in the Al-Zeitoun neighbourhood, killing 20 people, including an unborn child. Additionally, eight Palestinians lost their lives during a raid on Ibn Al-Haytham School in Al-Shujaiyya.

In occupied Jerusalem, Israeli forces have begun constructing an escalator near the Buraq Wall to facilitate access for Jewish extremists to the Al-Aqsa Mosque courtyards. Between September 16 and 22, approximately 1,794 individuals stormed these courtyards. Meanwhile, two homes were demolished in Al-Mabker and Al-Issawiya neighbourhoods.

The situation in Gaza is further exacerbated by severe inflation rates, making it one of the most expensive places globally due to food scarcity. This economic strain adds to the already dire living conditions faced by residents amid ongoing violence and destruction.

In the West Bank, Israeli forces have demolished four homes across various towns including Khirbet Jbara and Qabatiya. They also destroyed agricultural facilities and confiscated land for settlement expansion. A total of 12 Palestinians were killed while 197 were arrested during this period.

Settler raids have been rampant with at least 37 incidents reported. These include attacks on schools and thefts from construction material stores. Settlers also set fire to olive groves and poisoned livestock in different areas.

Media Suppression Efforts

Israeli forces closed down Al Jazeera's office in Ramallah for 45 days under military orders. Equipment and documents were seized during this operation aimed at suppressing media coverage of ongoing events. This move is seen as part of efforts to conceal alleged acts of genocide against Palestinians.

The OIC's report highlights that Israeli crimes across Palestinian territories numbered at least 1,484 within one week alone. These actions continue to fuel tensions between Israelis and Palestinians amidst calls for international intervention.

With inputs from SPA