Texas Education Agency encourages schools to use additional resources to foster awareness of Israel-Hamas conflict

In the wake of the ongoing war between Israel and Palestinian militant group Hamas, Gov. Greg Abbott and the Texas Education Agency (TEA) have encouraged schools statewide to use additional lessons and resources to foster awareness and understanding of the conflict and its root causes.

“The State of Texas stands strong with Israel and our Jewish neighbors during the heinous acts of war committed by the terrorist group Hamas, and we will not allow misinformation and prejudice to undermine the support the Jewish community needs during this time of conflict,” Abbott, a Republican, said in an Oct. 20 press release issued by the Office of the Texas Governor. “These additional resources will supplement the current comprehensive approach to teaching world studies in Texas by providing our students an elevated understanding of the current conflict in Israel through informed classroom discussions, multimedia resources, and in-depth learning experiences.”

Abbott thanked the TEA and the Texas Holocaust, Genocide, and Antisemitism Advisory Commission for helping shield the state’s students from what he described from “false information and historical misrepresentations” that cultivate hatred and violence against “innocent communities.” 

“The future of Texas depends on the thorough education and guidance of our bright students,” the governor said. “Working together, we can eliminate the ignorance that spurs antisemitism and bigotry through knowledge and truth.”

Since the start of the war on Oct. 7, Abbott has expressed support for Israel after it experienced a sneak attack by Hamas militants, prompting Benjamin Netanyahu, its prime minister, to issue a declaration of war.

Hamas’ initial assault claimed at least 1,000 lives, including dozens of Americans. In response, Israel has launched rockets into the Gaza Strip in an effort to decimate the group, which is classified as a terrorist organization by the U.S, Israel, the European Union (EU), and others. Israel intends to step up its bombardment of Gaza, with a major ground offensive slated to take place any day now.