New School Year Begins in War-Torn Gaza After Nearly Two-Year Hiatus

Education has resumed in the Gaza Strip following a 16-month suspension due to ongoing Israeli military actions, Anadolu Agency reported citing the Education Ministry. The new school year commenced on Sunday, with students attending classes at schools that are still operational, have been renovated, or at alternative educational sites established in various locations.

The ministry stated that it aims to provide online courses for students unable to attend in-person classes, ensuring continued access to education. The new academic year begins amidst widespread destruction and a critical shortage of resources.

The ministry has called on human rights organizations to advocate for Israel to allow the necessary educational materials into Gaza. Palestinian reports indicate that 85% of schools have been rendered unusable due to Israeli bombardments. Since October 2023, at least 12,800 students and 800 teachers and administrative staff have lost their lives, with 1,166 educational facilities destroyed, resulting in over $2 billion in damages to the education sector.

A ceasefire, effective January 19, has halted the conflict that has claimed more than 48,300 Palestinian lives, predominantly women and children, leaving the region devastated. The International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants in November for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza. Additionally, Israel is facing a genocide case at the International Court of Justice regarding its military operations.