Israel uses law to destroy Palestinian education in East Jerusalem
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Israeli Knesset Education Committee Chairman Zvi Sukkot smashed a Palestinian school's entrance sign in East Jerusalem on Tuesday, his second such visit in two weeks. The incident is part of a broader state campaign targeting Palestinian education in the occupied territory.
Legislative Campaign
The Knesset has passed laws targeting Palestinian education in East Jerusalem. A January 2026 law bars graduates of Palestinian West Bank universities from teaching in Israel and East Jerusalem. A November 2024 law, known as the 'Silencing Law', gives the Education Ministry discretion to suspend teachers for speech deemed 'incitement to terrorism' and revoke school funding.
Motives and Impact
Lawmakers have cited the need for 'Israelisation' of the education system during deliberations. The January 2026 law was justified by claims that Palestinian university graduates are 'inherently dangerous'. The laws exacerbate a severe teacher shortage in East Jerusalem, where schools already lack classrooms and staff.
What's Next
Israel's October 2026 elections may intensify such actions as politicians appeal to their base. It remains unclear how Palestinian schools can sustain operations amid funding threats and teacher bans.
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Israel uses law to destroy Palestinian education in East Jerusalem
