On May 8, 2025, Israeli authorities closed six UNRWA-operated schools in East Jerusalem, implementing a law that prohibits the UN agency from operating in the capital. This action has sparked international condemnation and raised concerns about the education of Palestinian children.
The closures, which followed notices issued in April, are based on claims that UNRWA is operating illegally and without proper licenses. The Israeli Ministry of Education stated it would place the affected students in other Jerusalem schools. However, critics argue that the alternatives are inadequate and that the closures violate international law.
UNRWA has been providing services to Palestinian refugees in East Jerusalem since the 1950s, including education and healthcare. The agency maintains that it is committed to continuing its services despite the ban. The recent closures have resulted in a traumatizing experience for the students, with reports of Israeli forces entering schools and detaining staff.