The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has strongly condemned the Israeli occupation authorities’ decision to shut down six schools run by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) in occupied Jerusalem.

In an official statement, the OIC denounced the move as part of ongoing illegal Israeli measures aimed at undermining the role and presence of UNRWA—particularly in Jerusalem. The organization stressed that the decision constitutes a clear violation of the UN Charter and international resolutions, including UN General Assembly Resolution 302 (IV), which established the agency’s mandate to serve Palestinian refugees.

The OIC warned of the grave consequences of this decision, which will deprive thousands of Palestinian refugee children of their fundamental right to education. The organization also criticized Israeli attempts to impose its own curriculum on Palestinian students, viewing it as part of a broader strategy to erase Palestinian identity and heritage.

“This is a continuation of Israel’s systematic efforts to target the rights, presence, and future of the Palestinian people in occupied Jerusalem,” the OIC stated. “It is an unacceptable attempt to undermine the Palestinian refugee issue and deny their internationally recognized right of return.”

The OIC renewed its urgent call on all member states and the international community to uphold their responsibilities by protecting UNRWA and ensuring it receives the political, financial, and legal support necessary to continue its vital mission. It emphasized the agency’s indispensable role in serving millions of Palestinian refugees and safeguarding their rights in accordance with relevant UN resolutions, including Resolution 194. (ILKHA)