Christian schools in Jerusalem announced the suspension of classes on 1 September 2026, due to the non-renewal of entry permits into the city for dozens of members of their staff. The strike was originally intended to be indefinite, but was called off after one day when Israeli authorities renewed a portion of the permits.
The decision to suspend school activities was announced on 31 August by the General Secretariat of Christian Educational Institutions in Jerusalem after entry permits were not renewed for over 70 teachers and staff members. Their absence hinders administrative, technical, sanitary, and teaching services, affecting more than 8,500 students.
The crisis facing Christian schools in Jerusalem and the human toll
In a statement sent to the pontifical foundation Aid to the Church in Need (ACN), Brother Daoud Kassabry, headmaster of the Collège des Frères in Jerusalem, warned of the wider consequences for local families:
“The start of the school term should be a moment of joy, reunions, and hope. For Christian schools in Jerusalem, the beginning of the 2026–2027 academic year is unfortunately marked by a new crisis”.
The problem stems from restrictions governing entry into Jerusalem for Palestinians from the West Bank, who require Israeli permits to enter. The non-renewal occurred suddenly and without prior notice as the new academic term approached. Brother Kassabry added:
“This suspension fits into a broader context of restrictions concerning the recruitment and qualifications of Palestinian teachers. For us, a teacher cannot be replaced overnight. They bring expertise, experience, an understanding of the students, and a relationship of trust with families”.
“Behind every non-renewed permit, there is a person, a family, and a livelihood threatened”.
Educational mission, economic strain, and partial resolution
The educational establishments must cover ongoing overheads during class suspensions, aggravating financial distress caused by the ongoing war and the collapse of tourism. Christian schools in Jerusalem welcome both Christian and Muslim students, serving as vital spaces for mutual respect in a divided city. Furthermore, access to stable education remains essential for Christian families deciding whether to remain in the Holy City.
Following the protest, Israeli authorities renewed several permits on 1 September. George Akroush, director of development at the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem, clarified the current status:
“Some for one week, some for a month and some until the end of this year. This means that over 70 teachers did not get their full permits until the end of the academic year. Church authorities will continue to apply pressure to the authorities concerning these teachers, and are hopeful that the full permits will be issued soon, perhaps after Christmas”.
Brother Kassabry concluded:
“We call on the relevant authorities, Church leaders, and international partners to support a swift and lasting solution. The children of Jerusalem need stability, confidence, and an open future”.
