Israel Suspends Studies in Northern Galilee Amid Escalating Hezbollah Strikes
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JERUSALEM (AP) — Israel suspended all academic studies in the Northern Galilee region on Saturday as escalating strikes by Hezbollah intensified security concerns across the border area. The decision, announced late Saturday evening, affects universities, colleges, and schools in the region as the military conflict nears the Lebanese border continues to expand.
The Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Defense coordinated the suspension following a series of rocket and missile attacks targeting civilian and military infrastructure in the north. Officials stated that the closure is a precautionary measure to protect students and faculty from the increasing frequency of cross-border fire. The suspension takes effect immediately and will remain in place until further notice.
Hezbollah has increased its rate of fire into northern Israel over the past 48 hours, launching dozens of projectiles that have damaged residential buildings and disrupted daily life in communities within range of the Lebanese border. Israeli air defenses intercepted the majority of the incoming fire, but several strikes landed in populated areas, causing minor injuries and property damage. The escalation marks a significant intensification of the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Iran-backed militant group.
Residents in towns such as Kiryat Shmona, Safed, and Metula have been advised to remain in shelters and avoid unnecessary travel. Local authorities have set up emergency response teams to assist with potential casualties and coordinate evacuations if the situation deteriorates further. The suspension of studies joins previous closures of schools and businesses in the region, which have been operating under intermittent alerts for months.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the nation on Saturday, emphasizing the government's commitment to protecting citizens while pursuing military objectives against Hezbollah. He stated that the suspension of academic activities reflects the severity of the threat but affirmed that Israel will not allow the militant group to dictate daily life indefinitely.
The conflict has drawn international concern, with diplomats from the United States, France, and the United Arab Emirates calling for de-escalation. Regional tensions remain high as both sides exchange rhetoric and military actions. The United Nations has expressed alarm over the humanitarian impact on civilians in both Israel and southern Lebanon.
It remains unclear how long the academic suspension will last or whether it will be expanded to other parts of northern Israel. Military officials have not provided a timeline for the resumption of classes, citing the volatile security situation. The Israeli Defense Forces continue to conduct airstrikes in southern Lebanon, targeting Hezbollah positions and infrastructure.
As of Saturday night, no major casualties were reported from the latest wave of strikes, but the situation remains fluid. Emergency services are on high alert, and residents are urged to monitor official channels for updates. The suspension of studies underscores the growing impact of the conflict on civilian life in Israel's north.