Commenting on the passing of an emergency motion at NEU Annual Conference in Brighton, Daniel Kebede, general secretary of the National Education Union, said:
“NEU Conference has recorded deep concerns about the escalating global conflicts. We reaffirm the Union’s respect for international law and the vital necessity of holding all governments to that standard.
“Conference condemns the attack on Venezuela, the strikes in Iran which have included the bombing of a girls’ school, and the aggression over Lebanon by Israel which has killed many citizens.
“Conference believes the actions by President Trump against Cuba breach international law and will worsen humanitarian conditions. The blockade has a direct impact on schools which face a shortage of essential supplies.
“The NEU is alarmed at the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the Middle East, particularly in Iran, Lebanon and Gaza, and the terrible civilian casualties, destruction of schools and infrastructure. Conference calls for an immediate ceasefire, humanitarian aid and protection of civilians, schools and children. Removing access to education creates cycles of exclusion and hopelessness.
“The Iranian regime is despotic and authoritarian, but the NEU condemns regime change through war. There needs to be an urgent de-escalation of conflict and global tensions.”