The new school year in Jerusalem begins this time under heightened security. Israeli Border Police carried out large-scale operations against illegal residency, aiming to ensure that students return to class safely. Over the past week, 628 Palestinians without permits were arrested nationwide, with 368 detained in Jerusalem alone. Against this backdrop, the city has seen dramatic events on the ground
Large Jerusalem Arrests Before the 2025 School Year
As part of this year’s preparations, Border Police staged ambushes near the security barrier. In one incident, 32 Palestinians were captured after attempting to hide on the rooftop of a high-rise building. The suspects were transferred for questioning as part of broader arrests in the city. This wave of detentions set the stage for further operations inside Jerusalem
Jerusalem Border Police fighters arrested 32 illegal residents on the roof of a building near the separation fence pic.twitter.com/HHCKSgHNzd
— jerusalem online (@Jlmonline) August 31, 2025
East Jerusalem Raids Mark the New Academic Year 2025
Following these events, Israeli forces raided a building in the Sur Baher neighborhood of East Jerusalem, which was used to shelter illegal residents. Twenty-eight people were arrested and taken to the Oz police station. Security officials stressed that such operations are designed to guarantee that the 2025 school year in Jerusalem begins in a safe environment. This focus on East Jerusalem connects directly to broader judicial actions
(Jerusalem police get almost free housing in Nahlaot project)
Indictment in Jerusalem Amid the 2025 School Year
Beyond field operations, prosecutors filed a severe indictment against a Jerusalem resident accused of systematically transporting Palestinians without permits. The 13-count indictment underscores the growing risks tied to illegal residency. Officials note that, as the 2025 school year begins, judicial enforcement is a crucial pillar of the wider security effort. From here, the picture loops back to the citywide preparations for students’ safe return
