Israel Kills 644 Athletes, Including 91 Child Players

 Israel Kills 644 Athletes, Including 91 Child Players

On Friday, December 20, Al Jazeera reported that Israeli forces have been carrying out devastating operations in Gaza for over 14 months. These actions have resulted in the deaths of at least 45,206 Palestinians.  

According to the Palestinian Football Association, 359 of the deceased were football players, while others were involved in various sports. Among the victims were 91 child athletes.  

The ongoing Israeli offensive in Gaza has created a grim reality, with the death toll rising daily. Women and children account for a significant portion of the casualties. An even more shocking statistic highlights the extent of Israeli brutality.  

On December 17, Al Jazeera cited a report from the Palestinian Ministry of Education stating that nearly 13,000 students have been killed by Israeli attacks. These students were from Gaza and the occupied West Bank. The official number stands at 12,799, but many bodies remain unrecovered, indicating that the actual toll is higher. Additionally, 20,942 students have been injured.  

The Ministry's report reveals that most casualties occurred in Gaza, though there have been significant fatalities in the West Bank as well. The attacks have also claimed the lives of 598 teachers and school administrators, while 3,801 have been injured.  

Israeli forces have arrested at least 538 students and 158 teachers and administrators in the West Bank. The exact figures for arrests in Gaza remain unclear, and the future of those detained is uncertain.  

The report also states that 425 government schools, universities, and their buildings have been destroyed by bombings. Additionally, 65 schools affiliated with the UN agency for Palestinian refugees were bombed to rubble by Israeli forces. Despite the destruction, some facilities attempt to continue operating amidst the debris.  

The ongoing violence in Gaza highlights a dire humanitarian crisis with far-reaching impacts on education, sports, and the future of Palestinian society.