School closures in Israel

Education Minister Yoav Kisch announced that students evacuated from northern Israel due to ongoing conflicts will not return to their hometown schools for the upcoming academic year, citing severe security issues and ongoing rocket attacks from Hezbollah. Kisch expressed regret over the decision, emphasizing the need for a significant military response against Lebanon to secure peace for northern residents. Local authorities reported a concerning 25% drop in school enrollment in the region, warning that Israel must not become a state isolated from its borders. Kisch outlined a budget plan to facilitate alternate schooling in safer areas, although it remains unclear if these provisions will be ready by the school year start on September 1. The minister's comments reflect heightened tensions and urgent calls for government action amidst the ongoing war in Gaza. The situation has left approximately 14,600 evacuated children scattered across various educational facilities in central Israel.