“University Corridors” from Gaza: Israel and Jordan’s rules for family reunifications

As part of the Italian Government's support for the civilian population of Gaza, the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI) continues to implement the "university corridors" initiative, which enables Palestinian students awarded scholarships under the IUPALS Project (Italian Universities for Palestinian Students) of the Conference of Italian University Rectors (CRUI) to arrive in Italy. Following the arrival of the first group of 39 students and researchers in early October, a new group of approximately 60 people, including students and family members, is scheduled to travel to Italy.

Even after the signing of the ceasefire agreements, procedures remain complex. Authorisation from the Israeli and Jordanian governments is essential for both departure from Gaza and transit through Jordan. Currently, no other exit routes are permitted by the transit countries apart from medical or family reunification purposes. The university corridors were established only after intensive diplomatic negotiations. Prior to Italy's intervention, only a limited number of sporadic permits had been granted to students.

The situation regarding students' family members remains particularly sensitive. Due to the policies previously enforced by Israel and Jordan, scholarship holders cannot travel with their families. Once in Italy, family reunification requests can be submitted after their status has been regularised with a residence permit, through the Prefecture of their place of residence. To date, Italy has evacuated 429 individuals under the family reunification programme.