Daijiworld Media Network- Jerusalem

Jerusalem, Apr 9: In a move that has sparked international condemnation, Israeli authorities have issued closure orders to six schools operated by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) in East Jerusalem, citing alleged violations related to the agency’s mandate and operations.

According to official reports, on April 8, Israeli municipal officials, accompanied by security forces, entered the premises of the UN-run schools and served notices demanding their closure within 30 days. The schools, which serve around 800 Palestinian students, now face an uncertain future, with fears mounting over the disruption of the ongoing academic year.

UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini strongly denounced the move, calling it a breach of international law and a violation of the UN's privileges and immunities. “This is an alarming development and an unprecedented challenge to the agency’s operations in East Jerusalem,” Lazzarini said, warning that such actions directly undermine the rights of Palestinian children to education.

The Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO) also condemned the closures, calling them a “flagrant violation” of United Nations resolutions and an attempt to erase the presence and role of UNRWA in Jerusalem and its surrounding refugee camps.

This decision follows Israel’s continued legislative efforts to limit UNRWA’s presence in East Jerusalem. In October 2024, the Knesset passed a bill requiring the agency to end all activities in territories claimed by Israel, including East Jerusalem, within 90 days—a timeline that has now led to mounting tensions and operational challenges for the UN body.

Beyond education, UNRWA has long played a critical role in providing healthcare, food, and social services to Palestinian refugees. The recent crackdown, including earlier orders to vacate its East Jerusalem headquarters, has raised grave concerns over the humanitarian fallout for thousands who rely on the agency's support.

Global observers and human rights organizations have expressed alarm over Israel’s actions, fearing they will further marginalize the already vulnerable Palestinian population in Jerusalem.