‘Our aim is that children are protected’: besieged West Bank school fortifies its defences against settler violence
After deaths of five students at hands of Israeli settlers in last academic year, al-Mughayyir’s teachers and pupils are on high alert
TL;DR
- Al-Mughayyir school has been fortified with metal fences and a sturdy gate due to settler violence, which led to the deaths of five students last academic year.
- Teachers have adapted the curriculum to include lessons on avoiding confrontations and developed emergency plans for settler attacks.
- The village is under siege by Israeli settlers who conduct regular raids, assault residents, attack homes, and seize livestock, with Israeli soldiers often present and seemingly cooperating with settlers.
- Settler outposts near the town have increased significantly, indicating a broader strategy to displace Palestinians from their land.
- The Israeli military imposes restrictions on villagers, including checkpoints that limit movement and prevent teachers from reaching the school, disrupting education and livelihoods.
- Despite the challenges, the school's aim is to protect children and confront attacks through education, fostering a sense of normality and resilience.