Mon Dec 08 15:27:10 UTC 2025: News Article:

Israeli Forces Raid UNRWA Headquarters in East Jerusalem, Sparking International Condemnation

East Jerusalem – Israeli forces raided the headquarters of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) in occupied East Jerusalem on Monday, seizing property and replacing the UN flag with an Israeli flag. The action has drawn strong condemnation from the UN agency and raised serious concerns about violations of international law.

According to UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini, the raid was conducted by Israeli police accompanied by municipal officials. “Police motorcycles, as well as trucks and forklifts, were brought in and all communications were cut. Furniture, IT equipment and other property was seized,” Lazzarini stated on X.

UNRWA has not been using the building since the beginning of the year, after Israel ordered the agency to vacate its premises and halt operations within Israel. Israel has accused some UNRWA employees of involvement in the October 7, 2023, attacks led by Hamas, allegations the agency denies.

Lazzarini condemned the raid as a direct violation of international law and a “blatant disregard of Israel’s obligation as a United Nations Member State to protect & respect the inviolability of UN premises.” He emphasized that despite Israel’s actions, the compound retains its status as a UN premises and is immune from interference, citing Israel’s obligations as a signatory to the Convention on the Privileges and Immunities of the UN.

The raid follows months of what Lazzarini described as “harassment,” including arson attacks, demonstrations, and a disinformation campaign targeting UNRWA.

The United States, historically UNRWA’s largest donor, suspended funding to the agency following Israel’s allegations. The agency has since been forced to repatriate international staff from Gaza and the occupied West Bank, severely limiting aid distribution during a critical time.

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) previously issued an advisory opinion reaffirming Israel’s legal obligation to support UN relief efforts in Gaza, including those carried out by UNRWA.

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