Full Breakdown
Partial Reopening of Schools Amid Ongoing Conflict with Iran
4/8/2026, 8:28:50 AM
Overview of the Reopening Plan
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has approved a plan from the Education Ministry to partially reopen schools across Israel starting Sunday, following a five-week closure due to the ongoing war with Iran. This decision is contingent upon an assessment by the IDF Home Front Command (HFC) scheduled for later this week. Education Minister Yoav Kisch emphasized the importance of maintaining educational continuity, stating that the return to school is a national priority.
Details of the Reopening Strategy
The reopening plan entails a rotating system where 30 to 50 percent of students will attend classes in person at any given time. In areas deemed high-risk for missile attacks, classes will be conducted inside bomb shelters, while lower-risk areas, including the Gaza border communities, the Lower Galilee, and the West Bank, may allow classes to occur near shelters. Current guidelines classify regions as yellow (lower risk) or orange (higher risk), with specific restrictions on gatherings and educational activities based on these classifications.
Criticism and Opposition
Benny Gantz, chairman of the Blue and White party, has publicly urged the government to reopen schools, arguing that any institution with adequate shelter should resume operations. He criticized the government for not taking decisive action to alleviate the burden on parents. In contrast, some municipalities, including Jerusalem, have opted not to reopen schools, citing ongoing security concerns. The National Parents’ Council welcomed the reopening plan but stressed the need for flexibility to accommodate families still apprehensive about sending their children back to school.
Safety Concerns and Infrastructure Gaps
Despite the plan to reopen, significant safety concerns remain. Approximately 14% of Israeli schools lack any protective measures, while 24% have only partial protection. This translates to about 466,000 students—roughly one-quarter of the student population—without adequate safety provisions. The State Comptroller has noted that a considerable portion of the Education Ministry's data on school safety is outdated, having been collected between 2018 and 2021.
Official Statements and Responses
In a statement, Kisch praised Netanyahu for recognizing the critical need for educational continuity during the conflict. He noted that the education system serves as a vital support structure for children and families during these challenging times. The Education Ministry is also exploring options to expand in-person learning, contingent on ongoing assessments by the HFC.
What's Next
The situation remains fluid, with the HFC conducting regular assessments to determine the safety of reopening schools. The Education Ministry is expected to release a comprehensive outline detailing the reopening strategy after the Passover holiday, which concludes Wednesday night. The ongoing conflict with Iran continues to influence educational policies and the operational status of schools across the country.
