The Palestinian education system in the Gaza Strip is expected to undergo a profound transformation. A journalist who has spent years tracing the roots of Palestinian incitement identifies growing optimism among American officials.

Background

Two key objectives in the American plan for Gaza’s rehabilitation remain unfulfilled: the disarmament of the Hamas terrorist organization and the establishment of an International Stabilization Force (ISF). Yet, at the headquarters recently established in Kiryat Gat, planning is already underway for the civilian components of “the day after.”

A major part of this planning involves a comprehensive reform of Gaza’s future education system—the framework envisioned for a “New Gaza.” According to the Americans, this educational renewal will initially take shape in the eastern and southern regions beyond the “yellow line,” the zone to which the IDF has withdrawn.

Exposing the Incitement

Journalist and researcher David Bedein has spent decades monitoring the curriculum used in schools operated by UNRWA, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees, including those in Gaza.
Bedein was the first to expose the blatant incitement and antisemitism in UNRWA’s textbooks, which glorify suicide bombers who murdered dozens of Israelis. His findings later inspired additional research institutes to investigate these materials, leading to wide international exposure and a partial reduction in foreign donations to UNRWA.

A photo from the article shows UNRWA employees protesting budget cuts, reflecting the agency’s growing challenges amid international scrutiny.

A Turning Point in Policy

Bedein was invited last Wednesday to a meeting at the Kiryat Gat headquarters, attended by American representatives and officials from other countries stationed there. During the meeting, he presented evidence of UNRWA’s educational incitement, showing how the agency’s curriculum has for years indoctrinated Gaza’s children with hatred and glorified violence.

While Bedein admitted that he left the meeting without much optimism, describing the response as “polite indifference,” he did note one significant development:

“They told me UNRWA will no longer handle education in Gaza,” he said, noting that this aligns with Israeli legislation restricting the agency’s educational activities.

Outlook

If implemented, this change could mark a historic shift in Gaza’s education system, signaling a move away from decades of UNRWA-led indoctrination and toward a model overseen by international and local authorities seeking to foster peaceful coexistence and civic development.

For the Americans leading postwar planning, reforming education is viewed as a cornerstone for rebuilding Gaza’s society and breaking the cycle of extremism that has defined generations.

RELATED ARTICLESMORE FROM AUTHOR