Wed Jan 14 12:00:53 UTC 2026: Headline: East Jerusalem Schools Strike as Israel Limits West Bank Teachers’ Access

The Story:
Schools in occupied East Jerusalem are on strike following Israel’s decision to restrict the number of work permits granted to teachers from the West Bank. The strike, initiated by the General Secretariat of Christian Educational Institutions in Jerusalem and joined by all private schools in East Jerusalem, affects at least 25,000 students. The move has been widely condemned as an infringement on the right to education and part of a systematic effort to undermine Palestinian identity in East Jerusalem.

Key Points:

  • At least 25,000 students in occupied East Jerusalem are affected by the school strike.
  • The strike was called in response to Israel limiting work permits for teachers from the West Bank.
  • The General Secretariat of Christian Educational Institutions in Jerusalem initiated the strike, and all private schools in East Jerusalem joined.
  • Mustafa Barghouti of the Palestinian National Initiative party stated the issue reflects broader dismay about Israeli rules.
  • Richard Zananiri, director of St George’s School, noted the restrictions impact over half of the approximately 300 teachers in private schools.
  • The Palestinian Ministry of Education and Higher Education condemned Israel’s actions as a violation of the right to education.
  • Six UNRWA-run schools in East Jerusalem are also closed amidst unsubstantiated Israeli claims of UNRWA complicity in the October 7, 2023, attacks.
  • The International Court of Justice previously advised Israel to support UN relief efforts in Gaza, including those by UNRWA, finding no evidence for Israel’s allegations.

Key Takeaways:

  • The restriction on teacher permits exacerbates existing tensions between Israel and Palestinians in East Jerusalem.
  • The event highlights Israel’s ongoing control over movement and access between the West Bank and East Jerusalem.
  • The strike underscores the vital role of Palestinian teachers from the West Bank in East Jerusalem’s educational system.
  • The situation raises concerns about the long-term impact on Palestinian education and identity in East Jerusalem.
  • The ICJ’s previous ruling regarding UNRWA is disregarded amidst ongoing Israeli allegations, further complicating the situation.

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