Importance Score: 72 / 100 🔴
Israel Orders Closure of Additional UNRWA Schools in East Jerusalem
Israeli authorities are planning to close six more schools in East Jerusalem, operated by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). This action further restricts the operations of the UN agency in the region and impacts Palestinian education.
Forced Entry and Closure Orders
According to UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini, Israeli police and Jerusalem city council personnel forcibly entered the UNRWA-run schools. In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday, Lazzarini stated that the authorities issued orders mandating the schools’ closure within 30 days.
Impact on Students
Commissioner-General Lazzarini highlighted the immediate impact on students. “Approximately 800 boys and girls will be directly affected by these closure directives and are likely to be prevented from completing their current academic year,” he stated.
Israel’s Accusations Against UNRWA
The decision to close the schools follows accusations from Israel that UNRWA has employees involved with Hamas, the Islamist group. Israel alleges that some UNRWA staff participated in militant activities, prompting stricter measures against the agency.
Legislative Actions Against UNRWA
In response to these allegations, the Israeli Knesset, Israel’s parliament, has taken legislative action against UNRWA. A recently enacted law prohibits UNRWA personnel from working within Israeli territory, a ban that took effect at the end of January. Furthermore, another law prevents Israeli authorities from engaging in any contact with UNRWA.
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Hostage Allegation and Previous Closures
Media reports suggest that an Israeli hostage, after being released from captivity, claimed to have been held in a UNRWA facility in the Gaza Strip. Israel has previously directed the closure of other UNRWA schools situated in East Jerusalem. The Jerusalem city council has stated it will provide for students affected by the UNRWA work restrictions after the ban was implemented.