Arab League Warns of Devastating Effects of Attacking Education in Occupied Territories

Cairo: Assistant Secretary-General and Head of the Palestine and Occupied Arab Territories Sector at the Arab League Ambassador Dr. Faed Mustafa stressed that targeting education in the occupied Palestinian territories, particularly in the Gaza Strip, cannot be regarded as merely a side effect of war. According to Saudi Press Agency, he asserted that it represents part of a systematic plan aimed at erasing the Palestinian national identity and depriving future generations of their awareness, culture, and sense of belonging. He warned that what he described as educational genocide would have devastating consequences extending to generations to come. He made the remarks during his speech at the opening of the 111th Session of the Committee on Educational Programs for Arab Students in Occupied Arab Territories, which kicked off today at the headquarters of the General Secretariat of the Arab League in Cairo. Mustafa noted that Palestinian efforts to resume the educational process, particularly in the Gaza Str ip, face major challenges due to the blockade, Israeli restrictions, and shortages of educational supplies. These circumstances have compelled the concerned authorities to resume classes in partially damaged schools, as well as in tents and temporary educational centers with limited resources. He called on the international community and relevant institutions to fulfill their obligations toward rebuilding the Palestinian educational system, ensuring sustainable funding for United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), and supporting psychological and educational recovery programs. Mustafa stressed that saving Palestinian education is a national, humanitarian, and moral duty that requires concerted local, regional, and international efforts.