LONDON — The United Kingdom has confirmed new measures to ensure dozens of students from Gaza can take up their university placements next month, despite mounting diplomatic tensions with Israel.
The Home Office has authorized a special process allowing the students to complete biometric checks in a third country before traveling onward to Britain. Final departures, however, remain subject to Israeli clearance, which has become increasingly difficult following Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s recent pledge to recognize a Palestinian state if Israel fails to meet conditions tied to a ceasefire with Hamas.
Roughly 40 students are expected to benefit from the plan, including nine Chevening Scholars funded primarily by the British government. The remainder hold full awards from independent foundations and private programs. Interior Secretary Yvette Cooper has endorsed arrangements for all groups, stressing that while the operation is logistically “difficult,” she is committed to ensuring no candidate loses their place.
The Chevening scheme is among Britain’s most high-profile educational initiatives, designed to nurture global leadership by offering a one-year master’s degree to exceptional applicants worldwide. Other scholarship winners from Gaza fall under privately financed academic and humanitarian programs that likewise cover full tuition and living costs.
Officials acknowledge that coordination remains fragile given Israel’s role in granting exit permits from Gaza. Still, the UK government is moving forward with preparations so that the scholars can begin their courses on time.
This effort underscores Britain’s balancing act — facilitating educational access for Palestinians while navigating its increasingly strained relations with Israel. For the students awaiting confirmation, the decision represents a rare opening to pursue higher education abroad under exceptionally difficult circumstances.
