PCHR calls for expediting reconstruction of Gaza

GAZA, — The Palestinian Center for Human Rights (PCHR) called for pressure to be placed on Israel to end the Gaza blockade and allow entry of building materials and other equipment necessary to reconstruct Gaza’s infrastructure destroyed during the last Israeli war against the Strip.

The PCHR said in its weekly report on Monday: “Israel’s claims to have eased the siege aim to cover the unlawfulness of the policy (siege), which represents a form of collective punishment banned under international law.”

The center added: “The war resulted in destruction of several educational facilities. 158 schools and educational facilities were damaged after they were directly targeted by Israeli forces, resulting in almost total destruction of eight schools.  Five schools have become incompatible for educational purposes.”

The center said that two private schools and five nurseries were entirely destroyed after they were targeted by rockets fired from warplanes, which also bombed university buildings.