The Maldivian government has condemned the recent decision by Israeli authorities to shut down six schools operated by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) in East Jerusalem, labelling the move as a blatant violation of international law and a direct attack on the fundamental right to education.
In a statement released by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Maldives expressed deep concern over the closures, which it described as an unacceptable politicisation of education in occupied Palestinian territories. The statement reaffirmed the Maldives’ steadfast commitment to the right to education—a principle enshrined in both international human rights and humanitarian law.
“The deliberate targeting and closure of UNRWA-run schools jeopardise the future of countless Palestinian children and deepen the already dire humanitarian crisis in the region,” the Ministry stated. “Educational institutions must be protected as safe spaces, shielded from conflict and coercion.”
The Maldivian government called for the immediate reversal of the decision and urged the international community to step up efforts to hold Israel accountable for actions that undermine peace, stability, and the rights of Palestinian people.
The statement also reiterated the Maldives’ unwavering support for the Palestinian cause, including the right to self-determination and the establishment of an independent, sovereign State of Palestine within the pre-1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.
This condemnation comes amid heightened tensions and growing global criticism of Israel’s actions in the occupied territories, particularly those impacting civilians and essential services such as education.
