The Arab League has strongly condemned Israel's ongoing aggression against the Gaza Strip, warning that the sector is facing a genocide. According to Fايد مصطفى, Assistant Secretary-General of the Arab League, Israel's actions have devastated various aspects of life in Gaza. The destruction has had a profound impact on the education sector, with over 90% of school and university buildings damaged or destroyed.
The Assistant Secretary-General made these remarks during a joint meeting between UNRWA officials and the Palestinian Educational Affairs Council. He commended UNRWA's efforts to resume education services for over 250,000 students in Gaza, starting from September 2026. Additionally, the organization has provided remote education services for students who were unable to attend classes.
Fايد مصطفى praised UNRWA's role in supporting the Palestinian people, particularly in Gaza, and acknowledged the challenges faced by the agency's education staff. He also highlighted the ongoing daily Israeli attacks, which have resulted in casualties and restrictions on humanitarian aid and reconstruction materials.
The situation in the West Bank is equally concerning, with continued Israeli raids and attacks on Palestinian cities, towns, and camps. These actions have disrupted the education process, and many schools have been forced to close. The Arab League emphasizes that education is a fundamental aspect of the Palestinian people's resilience and identity.
The destruction of educational infrastructure has severe long-term consequences, with many schools converted into shelters for displaced persons. This has hindered the education process for over three years, resulting in the loss of thousands of student and staff lives.
The Arab League has called for a clear plan to support the education sector in Palestine, ensuring that Palestinian children can exercise their right to education. The organization also urged the international community to provide financial and political support to UNRWA, enabling it to continue its essential services to Palestinian refugees.
The Arab League reaffirmed its commitment to supporting UNRWA and promoting cooperation with the agency. They also emphasized the importance of preserving the rights of Palestinian refugees and ensuring that UNRWA continues to operate until a just solution is found to the refugee issue.
Key points
- Israel's destruction of over 90% of Gaza's school and university buildings has severely impacted the education sector.
- The Arab League has called for a clear plan to support the education sector in Palestine.
- UNRWA has resumed education services for over 250,000 students in Gaza, starting from September 2026.
