On a statement released by his spokesperson, the high representative demanded an independent and thorough investigation to ensure accountability.

The incident left at least six members of the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) dead, bringing the death toll of UN workers in Gaza to 220.

“The continued failure to effectively protect civilians in Gaza is unacceptable,” Guterres noted calling for protection for civilians and the infrastructure on which they depend and for the essential needs of civilians to be met.

Guterres further urged the sides to refrain from using schools, shelters or surrounding areas for military purposes.

“All parties to the conflict have an obligation to comply at all times with international humanitarian law,” he claimed.

The air attack hit the New Nuseirat school, located in downtown Gaza Strip, and attacked for the fifth time since the onset of the conflict.

According to Tel Aviv authorities, the operation targeted a Hamas command center inside the building.

“UN facilities should never be attacked, nor should they be used by any group or force to launch military activities,” Guterres’ spokesperson Stephane Dujarric asserted on Wednesday in response to those claims.

Shortly afterwards, UNRWA confirmed the deaths of six of its members, including the shelter director and other members of the team.

Ied/omr/lam/ebr