The recent attack on Dar al-Kalima University has once again brought to light the ongoing aggression faced by Palestinian cultural and educational institutions at the hands of Israeli occupation forces. The university, known for its dedication to promoting Palestinian culture and educating future leaders in art, was subjected to a violent raid on the 16th of September 2024, highlighting the deliberate attempts to cause fear and panic among individuals.
During the raid, Israeli soldiers targeted the university's newly under-construction Hospitality Educational Center (HEC) restaurant, firing bullets that caused severe panic among students and staff. The attack, which also aimed at the university's cultural and educational institutes, posed a significant threat to the safety of workers and staff present at the site.
While no physical injuries were reported, the implications of the attack are deeply concerning. The university's Glass Dome restaurant, designed to host educational and training programs in culinary art, serves as a symbol of cultural resilience and contributes to enhancing the concept and practice of cultural tourism in Palestine. The deliberate targeting of such institutions not only endangers the lives of those present but also undermines the university's mission of promoting Palestinian culture and heritage.
It is crucial to recognize that these attacks are not isolated incidents but are part of the broader pattern of aggression aimed at eradicating the Palestinian presence, heritage, and identity. Despite the challenges posed by occupation policies, Dar al-Kalima University remains steadfast in its commitment to advancing Palestinian culture and art education.
The international community must not overlook these reprehensible acts of aggression and should work towards holding the perpetrators accountable. It is imperative to highlight the significance of protecting and preserving Palestinian cultural and educational institutions, which play a vital role in shaping the future of the Palestinian people and safeguarding their rich heritage.
As Dar al-Kalima University continues its mission in the face of adversity, it is essential for the global community to stand in solidarity with the university and all Palestinian cultural and educational institutions, supporting their unwavering dedication to promoting Palestinian culture and nurturing the next generation of artistic leaders.
We will post more information as soon as we hear from Mitri. Please keep the students, staff, and people of Palestine in your prayers.
