"We have taken in 36,000 refugees from all regions of the Gaza Strip," Adnan Abu Hasna said. "They have taken shelter in 38 of our schools and we are supplying them with provisions and electric generators."
Tens of thousands of civilians forced from their homes by the fighting between Israeli forces and Palestinian militants have taken shelter in schools and warehouses belonging to international humanitarian groups, as well as hospitals and the offices of foreign media organizations.
Though these places have a reputation as being less dangerous, the UN cannot guarantee refugees' safety. Last week in the Jabalia refugee camp a UN school where 350 Palestinians had taken shelter came under fire, leaving 30 dead. Israeli forces confirmed the attack, saying they were returning fire coming from Palestinian gunmen.
Hasna said that each school had been equipped with temporary medical facilities. "We have serious difficulties in getting provisions and medical supplies to the schools because we have to coordinate our movements with the Israeli army, which is a long process," he said.
