August 26, 2026
The road to the school in Shu'ab al-Batam, in Masafer Yatta, is a long one. In recent years, restrictions and actions by the Israeli army and growing settler violence, have made it increasingly difficult for Palestinian children in the area to reach school and continue their education.
Today, Israeli and Palestinian bereaved members of the Parents Circle made that journey together, carrying school bags and supplies purchased thanks to your donations. It was a deeply moving day for all of us.
This was the first stop of our Packing Hope campaign, in which we are distributing school bags and supplies to thousands of Palestinian children across the West Bank ahead of the new school year.
Unfortunately, these children will not be returning to a full school week. The Israeli government’s withholding of Palestinian tax revenues and its failure to transfer these funds to the Palestinian Authority have severely affected the PA’s ability to pay teachers’ salaries.
We heard from the head of the Masafer Yatta Council, Nidal Younis, and the school principal, Jad al-Naja’a. They spoke with us about the challenges facing the communities of Masafer Yatta and the children who live and study there. Around three weeks ago, two classrooms at the school were demolished by the Israeli army, while residents of the area continue to face violence and harassment by settlers.
Despite these circumstances, the school continues to operate and prepare for the new school year.
In the coming days, Packing Hope will continue to reach children in villages and communities across the West Bank, with particular attention to areas affected by settler and military violence.
Our heartfelt thanks to everyone who has donated so far and helped make this project possible.
Together, Israeli and Palestinian bereaved families are working to support Palestinian children’s right to education and to build a future of security, dignity, and peace for all.
