More UNRWA schools taken over by armed groups in Ain el-Helweh

UNRWA says it has received reports that another school compound has now been taken over by armed groups in the Ain el-Helweh Palestinian refugee camp near Sidon.

“This brings the total number of schools taken over by armed groups in the camp to eight, risking the start of the school year in time for 5,900 children,” UNRWA warned.

“We are getting credible reports of severe damage to the school buildings and looting of children’s education material and equipment from the schools,” it said.

“UNRWA reiterates its urgent call on all armed groups to immediately vacate its premises in the Ain el-Helweh camp including schools and other service offices. Their presence is a grave violation of the neutrality and safety of U.N. installations and is a serious threat to the education for thousands of Palestine refugee children living in the camp,” UNRWA added.

“The Agency remains committed to delivering services in the camp including health, solid waste collection and relief services wherever possible across the camp. We call for open access throughout the camp so that the agency reaches all of the 50,000 Palestine Refugees who rely on its assistance and services,” it urged.

The camp has recently witnessed days of deadly armed clashes between the secular Fatah Movement and hardline Islamist groups.