Jerusalem: Israeli occupation forces stormed schools in the Shuafat refugee camp, northeast of occupied Jerusalem, on Thursday, and issued military orders mandating their immediate evacuation and closure. They demanded that students and teaching staff leave the area immediately, as the decision to close six UNRWA schools went into effect.
According to Palestine News and Information Agency - WAFA, the Palestinian Authority's Jerusalem Governorate reported that Israeli police forces entered the school grounds and surrounding areas, raising tensions and fears of attacks on students and teachers. This move is part of a larger systematic escalation by Israeli forces against Palestinian educational institutions in the city.
On April 8, the Israeli occupation authorities issued a decision prohibiting anyone from entering the school building after May 8, 2025. This ban encompasses principals, teachers, staff, and parents.
UNRWA has stated that the closure of the six schools will deprive 800 children of their right to education, which constitutes a violation of Israel's obligations under international law.
In October 2024, the Israeli Knesset passed legislation prohibiting the activities of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) within Israel.
