Education International denounces the mass destruction of life and widespread suffering caused by the ongoing war in Gaza and the occupied Palestinian territories
The current Israeli blockade of the Gaza Strip has led to an intolerable humanitarian catastrophe and UN experts warn that people in Gaza are at critical risk of famine, with 500,000 facing starvation. This blockade is preventing the entry of vital supplies of food, safe drinking water, medical aid and other life sustaining items. International law states that the use of starvation of the civilian population as a method of war constitutes a war crime.
In addition, the Israeli government has announced plans to expand military operations in Gaza, with the aim of establishing a “sustained presence” and a ''conquest." Such military escalation would lead to another forced displacement of many thousands of Palestinian civilians who are already living in overcrowded and undersupplied zones.
The Education International World Congress in July 2024, passed a resolution in solidarity with Palestine which calls for a lasting ceasefire, the opening of all land crossings and the lifting of barriers for humanitarian access.
Education is a fundamental right, schools must be safe sanctuaries
On May 8, over 550 Palestinian children were forced out of their classrooms as heavily armed Israeli personnel stormed their schools in Shu’fat refugee camp. This assault reinforces the illegal closure orders issued by Israeli authorities against UNRWA (United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East) -run schools without replacement, effectively denying Palestinian children their fundamental right to learn.
“Days after the destruction of yet another school, and two months after Israel reinstated its full siege on Gaza, we can say that education is not just under attack, it’s being erased,” stated Education International General Secretary David Edwards.
"Schools and education facilities should always be respected as safe sanctuaries by all armed actors and never targets of war or violence. Children have the right to learn in peace and safety," he added.
In addition to this latest incident, EI reiterates its solidarity with union members in Palestine who have denounced the killings of thousands of teachers and students. They also report that those who survive are deeply affected by the trauma of war. EI and affiliate members also condemn the indiscriminate Israeli bombings of school buildings and universities which has left the education Education is a fundamental right, schools must be safe sanctuaries
On May 8, over 550 Palestinian children were forced out of their classrooms as heavily armed Israeli personnel stormed their schools in Shu’fat refugee camp. This assault reinforces the illegal closure orders issued by Israeli authorities against UNRWA (United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East) -run schools without replacement, effectively denying Palestinian children their fundamental right to learn.
“Days after the destruction of yet another school, and two months after Israel reinstated its full siege on Gaza, we can say that education is not just under attack, it’s being erased,” stated Education International General Secretary David Edwards.
"Schools and education facilities should always be respected as safe sanctuaries by all armed actors and never targets of war or violence. Children have the right to learn in peace and safety," he added.
In addition to this latest incident, EI reiterates its solidarity with union members in Palestine who have denounced the killings of thousands of teachers and students. They also report that those who survive are deeply affected by the trauma of war. EI and affiliate members also condemn the indiscriminate Israeli bombings of school buildings and universities which has left the education infrastructure in shambles. This destruction blocks access to education for Palestinian children today and jeopardizes the long-term development of an entire generation in Gaza.
Education International will continue to advocate for an end to the war, the release of all hostages, and a negotiated solution that leads to lasting peace. The international community must prioritize education in Palestine by rebuilding schools, providing psychological support for students and teachers, and ensuring the rights of educators so that every child in the region has the opportunity to learn, grow, and dream.
We remain committed to a two-state solution where a democratic and sovereign Palestine, lives in just and lasting peace and security, alongside a secure Israel.
