Israel Closes UNRWA Schools, Displacing 800 Palestinian Students in East Jerusalem

Israeli authorities have shut down six UNRWA-run schools in East Jerusalem, enforcing legislation that bans the UN agency's operations within Israeli territory. The closures have impacted nearly 800–900 Palestinian students, leaving parents and teachers concerned about loss of educational opportunities and student safety, as some children may now need to cross security barriers to attend alternative schools. The Israeli Ministry of Education cited the lack of operating licenses as the reason for the closures and has promised to provide alternative placements in local schools, along with plans for a new educational center in the Shuafat refugee camp. However, educators and families are skeptical, warning that Israeli schools are already overcrowded, and the disruption could increase absenteeism and push vulnerable students—especially girls—out of education. The situation has heightened tensions, with reports of Israeli police raids and the use of tear gas near school premises as staff and students were ordered to leave immediately. UNRWA continues to serve as the main provider of education and health care for Palestinian refugees in East Jerusalem, while its schools in the West Bank remain unaffected by the closures.