Children’s Safety at Risk Amid Rising Settler Violence in West Bank Schools

The new school year in the West Bank opens under a cloud of fear and tragedy, as parents and educators express deep concerns for the safety of children amid a surge in settler violence. In al-Mughayyir village, where a recent series of attacks has left families on edge, the local school has taken drastic measures to protect its students.

Tragic Incidents Cast a Shadow

On the inaugural day of classes, Bassam al-Assaf, the head teacher at al-Mughayyir boys school, shared the palpable anxiety that grips the community. "We are scared," he said, noting that this year has already seen six fatalities, including three students. One of the victims, 14-year-old Aws al-Naasan, was shot outside the school gates in April, a tragedy that haunts both teachers and students.

English teacher Waheed Abu Naem vividly recalls the chaos that ensued during the attack. "I was inside my classroom when I heard students rushing in, warning me about settlers near the school wall," he recounted. Despite his efforts to usher children to safety, Aws was fatally injured. "We lost him," Waheed lamented, recalling the horrific scene as bullets struck the school building.

New Measures for Protection

In response to the escalating violence, the school has fortified its premises with barbed wire and reinforced gates. Ambulance crews now wait outside, offering a semblance of security as parents volunteer to stand guard. Haroon Bishara, a concerned parent, emphasized the importance of their presence, stating, "I came because it makes the children feel their parents are with them, that they are safe." Despite the fear, he insists that they refuse to let these threats drive them away.

As classes resumed, teachers reiterated safety protocols to students, instructing them on how to behave if they encounter soldiers or settlers. However, the reality remains grim; even within the school, settlers have been sighted closer than ever before, heightening the tension in the already fraught environment.

Community Struggles Against Settler Aggression

The rise in settler attacks has dramatically affected the local population, with many parents hesitating to send their children to school. Hadi al-Naasan, an ambulance driver, pointed out a worrying trend: "Settler attacks were few at the beginning of the year, but now they are fully protected by the occupation soldiers." The situation has deteriorated, leading to a higher number of casualties, including among children.

Local families, like that of Sami Abu Rahma, are facing the harsh reality of targeted violence. His nine-year-old son was shot while playing outside, an incident that has left the family traumatized and fearful. "You no longer feel you can keep them safe in the street, or even at school," Sami reflected, highlighting the precariousness of their existence in the village. The ongoing violence aims to instill fear and drive families away from their homes, further complicating the situation for the community.

Source: www.bbc.co.uk