Israel orders closure of six UNRWA schools in Jerusalem

IANS April 9, 2025 162 views

Israel has initiated controversial closure proceedings against six UNRWA-operated schools in East Jerusalem, directly affecting approximately 800 students. The UN agency strongly condemns these actions as illegal and a violation of international protections and privileges. Palestinian authorities, including the PLO and Foreign Ministry, have denounced the move as a systematic attempt to undermine UNRWA's educational infrastructure. The situation highlights ongoing tensions between Israeli municipal authorities and international humanitarian organizations operating in disputed territories.

"These illegal closure orders come in the wake of Israeli Knesset legislation" - UNRWA Statement
Ramallah, April 9: The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) said Israeli officials from the Jerusalem Municipality and Israeli security forces forcibly entered six UNRWA-operated schools in East Jerusalem and gave "illegal" closure orders effective in 30 days.

Key Points

1

Israel targets UNRWA educational facilities in East Jerusalem

2

Closure orders threaten 800 students' academic year

3

UN agency claims violations of international law

4

Palestinian authorities condemn municipal actions

The UN agency said the closure orders directly impact some 800 boys and girls, who will likely be unable to finish their school year, Xinhua news agency reported.

UNRWA schools are protected by the privileges and immunities of the United Nations, said the UNRWA on the social media platform X. It noted that unauthorised entries into the schools and issuance of closure orders violate the protections and "represent a revocation of Israel's obligations under international law."

"These illegal closure orders come in the wake of Israeli Knesset (parliament) legislation seeking to curtail UNRWA operations," it said.

The executive committee of the Palestine Liberation Organization condemned the move on Tuesday, describing it as a "flagrant violation" of UN General Assembly resolutions and part of a broader attempt to undermine the agency's role, particularly in Jerusalem and its refugee camps.

The Palestinian government also called on the UN to take immediate steps to protect UNRWA institutions in East Jerusalem, warning that the closure orders threaten to dismantle vital educational and service infrastructure in violation of international law.

Meanwhile, the Palestinian Foreign Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to coordinating with international stakeholders to uphold UNRWA's mandate and ensure its continuity.

It called for intensified global efforts to protect the rights of Palestinian refugees and support the agency's work until a just resolution is reached based on UN resolutions.

Reader Comments

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Sarah K.
This is heartbreaking 💔 Education should never be used as a political tool. Those 800 children deserve to finish their school year without disruption.
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Michael T.
While I understand security concerns, closing schools seems like an extreme measure. There must be better ways to address whatever issues they're concerned about without punishing students.
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Aisha R.
The UN needs to step up its protection of these institutions. Education is a basic human right that shouldn't be compromised, especially for refugee children who've already suffered so much.
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David L.
I'd like to see more context about why these specific schools were targeted. The article mentions "illegal" orders but doesn't explain Israel's reasoning. More balanced reporting would help.
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Nadia S.
As an educator, this makes me sick. These kids' futures are being jeopardized over politics. Where will they go to school now? The international community needs to act fast.
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James P.
Complex situation, but disrupting education is never the answer. Both sides need to find a solution that puts children's needs first. There's got to be a better way forward.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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Tags:
Israel UNRWA Palestinian Refugees East Jerusalem UN Schools Education Conflict
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