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Israeli Minister Approves Hebron Jewish School, Violating 1997 Accord

6/20/2026

Summary

Story summary

Israel's finance minister Bezalel Smotrich approved a 1,000-square-metre Jewish school in Hebron's historic core, violating the 1997 Hebron Agreement.
The government cancelled a prior arrangement that gave the Palestinian municipality planning authority around the Cave of the Patriarchs.
Settler leaders said the school removes Palestinian municipal oversight and will enable further Zionist expansion, while activist Issa Amro warned it could force families out and deprive residents of basic services.

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Story summary

Israel's finance minister Bezalel Smotrich approved a 1,000-square-metre Jewish school in Hebron's historic core, violating the 1997 Hebron Agreement.
The government cancelled a prior arrangement that gave the Palestinian municipality planning authority around the Cave of the Patriarchs.
Settler leaders said the school removes Palestinian municipal oversight and will enable further Zionist expansion, while activist Issa Amro warned it could force families out and deprive residents of basic services.