Israel Shuts Down Six Illegal UNRWA Schools in Eastern Jerusalem

The Education Ministry announced on Thursday, May 8, that six schools affiliated with UNRWA in eastern Jerusalem have been ordered to cease operations after being found to function without proper licensing, Jewish media reported.

“These institutions were operating illegally and without licenses,” the ministry stated, adding that notifications were sent out to parents in recent months instructing them to enroll their children in officially recognized schools across the capital.

The ministry further emphasized its intention to ensure a smooth transition for affected students: “We will ensure the immediate and optimal integration of all students.” UNRWA’s Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini criticized the move, calling the closures “an assault on children.”

The closures come in the wake of a government directive issued last month, enforcing legislation passed by the Knesset in October to end all cooperation with UNRWA and bar its activities within Israeli jurisdiction.

A week after the Knesset passed the legislation, then-Foreign Minister Israel Katz officially announced the cancellation of the 1967 agreement between Israel and UNRWA, which formed the legal basis for relations between the State of Israel and UNRWA. The legislation officially took effect on January 30. (INN/VFI News)

“Dear God, we pray for all the children who have been receiving one-sided false education that incites them to hatred and violence against the Jewish people. We pray in Yeshua's Name that You take over the education system among the Palestinians and prevent their children from being indoctrinated and viewing Israelis and Jews as their enemies. We know that You love the little children and we put them in Your hands to guide, protect and instill Your love in their hearts.”