Ei-iE

Education International (EI) strongly condemns the violent raids by Israeli forces on two major Palestinian universities in the West Bank during the early hours of Tuesday, 9 December. EI calls on Israeli authorities to immediately cease all attacks on schools and universities.

The military operations forced both campuses to suspend all activities as armed forces took control, assaulted staff, and caused damage to the facilities. At approximately 4:00 a.m., Israeli forces stormed Birzeit University, north of Ramallah, arresting and detaining five university security guards. Shortly thereafter, troops entered Al-Quds University on the outskirts of Jerusalem, deploying snipers on rooftops.

These actions represent a blatant violation of international norms and conventions that protect the sanctity of educational institutions. Even during war, universities should be safe places for students and academics, to foster critical and independent thinking, and to harness knowledge. Such attacks undermine the fundamental right to education and exacerbate the humanitarian and educational crisis in Palestine. EI stands by the Palestinian Federation of Unions of University Professors and Employees (PFUUPE), which represents the academic and administrative staff in these institutions, and supports their fight to defend the academic community, uphold academic freedom, and protect the right to education while under attack.

The ongoing conflict and escalating violence in the West Bank continue to severely disrupt life and learning for Palestinian children and youth, while also undermining the safety and well-being of teachers. According to United Nations data, more than 637,000 school-aged children in Gaza have lacked sustained access to formal, in-person education for two years, resulting in severe learning loss. As of July 2025, 97% of Gaza’s school buildings had been targeted by Israeli military, with nearly half completely destroyed. Furthermore, 92% of schools require explosive clearance and major reconstruction.

EI is deeply alarmed by the continuation of military operations despite the ceasefire and peace agreement reached in Gaza in October. We stand in unwavering solidarity with students, teachers, academics, and education support personnel in Palestine. EI remains committed to supporting its affiliates in the country — the General Union of Palestinian Teachers (GUPT), the General Union of Workers in Kindergarten and Private Schools (GUWKPS), and the Palestinian Federation of Unions of University Professors and Employees (PFUUPE) — and to providing assistance to meet evolving needs on the ground.

The Education International ‘ Schools Shall Be Safe Sanctuaries’, declaration, which condemns violent attacks on schools and educational institutions and calls for the protection of teachers, pupils, scientists, students and other education workers, should serve a guiding document in times of war and conflict.