RAMALLAH, April 16, 2026 (WAFA) – The Ministry of Education and Higher Education said that approximately 350 students are currently imprisoned in Israeli jails under harsh conditions that violate all international laws and conventions.
In a statement marking Palestinian Prisoners' Day, the ministry said detainees are subjected to systematic policies including nighttime arrests, harsh interrogations, solitary confinement, and deprivation of education, as well as medical neglect and ill-treatment.
Based on documented testimonies from imprisoned children and students, the Ministry confirmed that many of them have endured shocking detention conditions.
Some, the ministry added, recounted being taken from their homes at night, handcuffed and blindfolded. Others reported being denied the ability to continue their education and held in environments lacking basic humanitarian standards, alongside psychological pressure and intimidation during interrogation.
It further said that these testimonies reflect the extent of the violations students are subjected to, constituting a blatant breach of the Convention on the Rights of the Child and all norms guaranteeing the right to education, protection, and care. It added that targeting students is not incidental but part of a broader policy affecting their awareness and future.
The Ministry stressed that the arrest of students and their deprivation of education is a direct attack on the Palestinian education system and a systematic attempt to undermine the future of generations. It affirmed that these practices will not deter it from continuing its role in protecting and promoting the right to education.
The Ministry reiterated its call to all international and human rights organizations, especially those concerned with children's rights and education, to assume their legal and moral responsibilities and work diligently to stop these violations and hold the occupation accountable.
It also demanded the immediate and unconditional release of all prisoners and detainees, particularly children and school students, and guaranteed their right to a safe return to their studies and the continuation of their education.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to supporting imprisoned students and highlighting their plight in all international forums.
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