Qalandia College Under Siege: Israeli Threats and Continued Education at UNRWA’s Last Jerusalem Stronghold

The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) has warned of ongoing Israeli threats to close or seize the Qalandia Vocational Training College. The agency noted that the occupation army has raided the college—UNRWA’s last operational facility in East Jerusalem—five times without prior notice or authorization, constituting a flagrant violation of the UN’s international immunities and privileges.

Although no official decision has been issued to close or demolish the institute—which spans an area of ​​88 dunams—these Israeli moves follow Knesset legislation banning the agency's activities. UNRWA officials emphasized that the college, established over 70 years ago and currently serving approximately 270 students across 16 vocational disciplines, remains committed to continuing its educational and service mission for refugees, equipping them with the essential skills and training needed for the labor market despite the raids and persistent pressure.

This article was written with the assistance of artificial intelligence.