Israeli Strike on Gaza School Complex Using US-Made Munitions Raises Concerns
ICARO Media Group
In a recent deadly strike on a school complex near Khan Younis in southern Gaza, Israeli forces have been found to have used US-made munitions, according to a CNN analysis of video footage. The strike resulted in the deaths of at least 27 people, with 53 others sustaining injuries. The Palestinian Ministry of Health in Gaza confirmed that the strike targeted the Al-Mutanabbi school complex, which is also known locally as the Al-Awda Schools.
The evidence of the use of US-made munitions was obtained from a video taken by a CNN journalist at the scene. Experts who reviewed the video identified a remnant of a US-made GBU-39 small-diameter bomb (SDB), specifically the tail section. Patrick Senft from Armament Research Services (ARES) stated that the remnant is consistent with a GBU-39-series tail actuation system, while Trevor Ball, a former US Army explosive ordnance disposal technician, confirmed that the remnants belonged to an SDB/GBU-39.
Israel claims to have targeted a Hamas operative in the strike, referring to the individual's involvement in various terrorist activities. In a statement, the Israeli military mentioned that the strike was carried out using precise munitions. However, the use of US-made munitions in densely populated areas, such as the school complex, raises concerns about the potential for collateral damage.
This is not the first time that remnants of GBU-39 small-diameter bombs have been identified in Israeli strikes. CNN identified similar remnants in two other strikes over the past months. Manufactured by Boeing, the GBU-39 is hailed as a high-precision munition designed to minimize collateral damage during attacks on strategically important targets.
Expert Chris Cobb-Smith, a former British Army artillery officer, emphasized that even with precision munitions, there are risks involved in densely populated areas. The use of any munition, regardless of its size, can pose challenges and endanger civilian lives.
CNN has reached out to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) for comment on the use of US-made munitions in the Khan Younis strike. Concerns over the impact of such munitions on civilian populations persist, and this incident will likely intensify discussions around the role of international arms sales and the responsibility of nations involved.
As investigations continue to shed light on the details of the strike, the international community will be closely monitoring the situation, calling for a comprehensive review of the circumstances and ensuring accountability for any violations of international humanitarian law.