Israeli police raid East Jerusalem school, arrest director over 'incitement material'

Israeli police raided a school in the Wadi al Joz neighborhood of East Jerusalem on Wednesday, citing the presence of Palestinian Authority (PA) educational materials and flags. The police claimed the operation was based on specific information that the school was storing materials suspected of containing incitement content from the PA.

Among the seized items were science and social studies textbooks, a 1994 document from the PA's Central Bureau of Statistics, official recognitions of the school from the PA, and various folders bearing the institution's logo. A photograph shared by the police also showed a bag filled with small Palestinian flags and scarves with the traditional kufiya pattern.

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The operation was carried out following specific information received by the police, according to which materials suspected of containing incitement content by the Palestinian Authority were stored on the school premises.

Following the findings, the school's director was arrested for interrogation. The police stated they are acting assertively to "reinforce governance and sovereignty in Jerusalem" and will not permit the introduction or dissemination of nationalist incitement content in public service centers. East Jerusalem, captured by Israel in 1967, was annexed in 1980. The PA governs the West Bank, and such raids highlight Israel's enforcement of its sovereignty in East Jerusalem amid PA influence.

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We act with a firm hand to reinforce governance and sovereignty in Jerusalem, and will not allow any attempt to introduce or disseminate content of (Palestinian) nationalist incitement in centers intended to serve the public.