Israel Mandates Closure of Six UNRWA Schools in Jerusalem
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Synopsis
The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees has reported that Israeli authorities in Jerusalem have ordered the closure of six UNRWA-operated schools, impacting 800 students and raising concerns about violations of international law.
Key Takeaways
- Israeli officials issued closure orders for six UNRWA schools.
- Approximately 800 students may be unable to complete their school year.
- UNRWA asserts that these orders violate international law.
- The Palestine Liberation Organization condemned the action.
- The Palestinian government calls for UN intervention.
Ramallah, April 9 (NationPress) The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) reported that officials from the Jerusalem Municipality and Israeli security forces forcibly entered six schools managed by UNRWA in East Jerusalem, issuing illegal closure orders that will take effect in 30 days.
This action affects approximately 800 boys and girls, jeopardizing their ability to complete the academic year, according to Xinhua news agency.
UNRWA emphasized that these schools are entitled to the privileges and immunities of the United Nations, asserting that unauthorized access and the issuance of closure orders violate these protections and represent a breach of Israel's commitments under international law.
“These illegal closure orders follow recent legislative actions by the Israeli Knesset (parliament) aimed at restricting UNRWA operations,” the agency stated.
The executive committee of the Palestine Liberation Organization condemned this action on Tuesday, labeling it a flagrant violation of UN General Assembly resolutions and part of a wider effort to undermine the agency’s function, especially in Jerusalem and its refugee camps.
Additionally, the Palestinian government urged the UN to take swift action to safeguard UNRWA institutions in East Jerusalem, warning that the closure orders pose a threat to essential educational and service infrastructures, contravening international law.
In response, the Palestinian Foreign Ministry reiterated its commitment to collaborating with global partners to maintain UNRWA's mandate and ensure its ongoing operations.
It called for enhanced international efforts to protect the rights of Palestinian refugees and support the agency’s initiatives until a fair resolution is achieved based on UN resolutions.
