Israel Closes UNRWA Schools Under New Law

Israeli authorities have closed six UNRWA-run schools in East Jerusalem under a new law banning the agency due to alleged ties to terror organizations, accusations flatly denied by UNRWA. The closures, enforced by Israeli police, displaced nearly 800 Palestinian students and drew condemnation from the UNRWA chief, who called the move an 'assault on children' and education. Videos from the scene showed police posting closure orders and detaining at least one staff member, while parents and teachers raised concerns about overcrowding, absenteeism, and difficulties for students with West Bank IDs. Israeli officials say alternative school placements and a new educational center are planned, but families remain skeptical about the capacity of local schools. The ban does not apply to UNRWA schools in the West Bank or Gaza, leaving the future of affected East Jerusalem students uncertain. The closures have further intensified debate over education rights and sovereignty in Jerusalem.