Qatari Editorials Address Israeli Settlement Plans and Domestic Educational Initiatives

Doha: On the Arab front, Al-Watan newspaper asserted that Israeli aggression in the region has crossed all international lines, laws, and UN resolutions, pointing out that the "E1" settlement plan and settlement activities east of occupied Jerusalem represent a turning point in Israel's creeping and gradual annexation. It emphasized that such plan is a threat to the integrity of Palestinian land, in addition to the resulting demographic changes and land confiscation.

According to Qatar News Agency, the newspaper explained that the plan aims to seize as much Palestinian land as possible, confining Palestinians to less than 40 percent of the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, while replacing them with settlers. It also noted the continued Israeli violations in Gaza, the West Bank, Lebanon, and Syria, as well as the European Union's rejection of the "E1" plan and its associated settlement activities.

Al-Watan concluded by saying that the European position, despite its importance, will not be able to restrain the occupation or stop its plans unless it is accompanied by effective and real pressure, stressing the need for the international community to assume its legal and moral responsibilities and work towards an immediate cessation of all Israeli acts of violence and violations.

On the domestic front, Al-Arab newspaper observed that Qatar's support for education abroad embodies a steadfast vision that considers education the first line of defense against poverty, ignorance, and conflict, not merely temporary aid or seasonal projects. The editorial highlighted the role of the Education Above All Foundation in supporting children in the most vulnerable areas.

The newspaper pointed to the Foundation's project in Zambia, which supported more than ten thousand children from the most vulnerable groups in Namwala District. This support included tuition fees, uniforms, books, and teacher training, with a focus on girls in rural areas. The project also reintegrated approximately 1,780 children into classrooms, achieving a 98 percent retention rate.

The newspaper concluded by emphasizing that what distinguishes the Qatari model is its sustainability, its focus on the most vulnerable groups, and its linking of education to development, recognizing that educating children today contributes to preparing them to participate and contribute to their countries' economies in the future.

In turn, the Peninsula noted that the Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MoEHE) preparations for the new academic year included curricula, school transportation, textbooks, and the safety of school buildings.

The administrative and teaching staff at Qatar's government schools returned to work on August 23. The ministry said school staff will work to complete academic, administrative, and organizational preparations and ensure that schools are fully ready to receive students.

Meanwhile, HE Minister of Education and Higher Education Lolwah bint Rashid Al Khater has issued Decision No. (14) of 2026 approving the opening of six new government schools and the appointment and transfer of several school principals as part of the ministry's preparations for the academic year.

It noted that the ministry has also launched its Back-to-School 2026-2027 Campaign, featuring interactive activities and booths for students and parents, as well as training workshops for teachers, school leaders, and members of the wider educational community.

The ministry will also hold its annual educational forum on August 25, bringing together education leaders, teachers, and partners ahead of the new academic year to discuss educational priorities.

The newspaper concluded by pointing out that with schools, transportation, and learning materials prepared, the ministry is now focusing on ensuring that students and their families are equally ready for the transition back to school on August 30. The ministry has highlighted the important role of parents in preparing children for the new school year, urging them to help their children gradually adjust to their daily routines.