Palestinian schoolchildren in Jenin, in the occupied West Bank, are crawling beneath a closed Israeli military gate to reach their classrooms, according to footage that has drawn attention to the difficulties pupils face in getting to school amid movement restrictions.
The principals of AABA School, Khitam Zreiqi and Sufyan Al-Azmouti, confirmed the incident after the footage circulated. It shows pupils carrying schoolbags as they squeeze under a yellow metal barrier on their way to and from school.
Al Jazeera shared the footage on October 26, 2026.
For the pupils shown, getting to class involves negotiating a closed military barrier before they can continue their journey. This raises concerns about the effect of movement restrictions on attendance, learning continuity and children's well-being.
Restrictions on access routes can complicate school attendance even when classrooms remain open. Children may arrive late, miss lessons or be unsure whether they can reach school without interruption.
For younger learners, regular attendance is important as they build foundational literacy, numeracy and social skills. Repeated disruptions can create learning gaps that teachers must later address. The uncertainty also puts pressure on parents and school administrators, who must plan around children's journeys to and from school.
Teachers face their own challenges when learners cannot attend consistently, as irregular attendance complicates lesson planning, assessments and efforts to identify pupils who need extra support.
The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child recognises every child's right to education. International humanitarian law also provides protections for children and other civilians during armed conflict.
The footage documents pupils crawling beneath a closed barrier, and the principal's confirmation adds context to the incident. However, the footage does not show how often the gate is closed, the circumstances of the restriction or whether alternative routes are available.
Keeping a school open does not necessarily mean that children can reach it. Safe and reliable routes between homes and classrooms are essential to learning continuity.
Reader Discussion (0)
Sign in to comment