The CRef expresses its support for students and university staff affected by the recent attack on the Birzeit University campus and by the armed repression in Iran.

Press release from the Council of Rectors dated January 26, 2026

The Council of Rectors of Universities of the French Community wishes to express its deep concern about the attack carried out on January 6 by the Israeli army on the campus of Birzeit University in the West Bank, as well as the violent and systematic repression currently being carried out in Iran, whose victims include many members of the university community, among them many students.

Universities are, and must remain, places of knowledge, dialogue, and free and critical thought. In addition to the physical and psychological harm they cause, military violence and repressive policies targeting university campuses in the West Bank and Iran profoundly affect teaching and research activities, compromise the right to education and destroy academic freedom.

The CRef wishes to send a strong message of solidarity and support to all students and university staff directly affected by these events. It also expresses its full support for members of its own university communities who are personally affected, whether they are from the regions concerned, have family or academic ties there, or are involved in collaborations that are now at risk. Their concerns, distress, and feelings of helplessness are legitimate and deserve all the attention they require.

Reaffirming its commitment to the fundamental values of the university, the CRef calls for universities around the world to be able to carry out their missions in complete safety and without hindrance, and stands alongside those who, despite extremely difficult conditions, continue to keep higher education and research alive. 

Council of Rectors of French-speaking Universities (CRef)