DaysofPal- The Advisory Commission of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) has warned that the Israeli demolition of an UNRWA headquarters in occupied East Jerusalem sets a dangerous precedent, urging Israeli occupation to respect their international obligations and safeguard the inviolability of United Nations premises.
In a statement issued by the commission, which advises UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini, the body said Israeli forces raided the agency’s headquarters in East Jerusalem early last Tuesday, took control of the compound, and demolished several structures within the complex.
Witnesses reported that Israeli forces raised Israeli flags over the main building of the compound.
Far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and a number of right-wing lawmakers were present at the site, publicly endorsing the demolition and evacuation of the UNRWA facility.
The advisory commission expressed “deep concern and strong condemnation” over the actions taken by the government of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, describing the demolition as a serious violation of international norms governing the protection of United Nations property.
“This action constitutes a dangerous precedent,” the commission said, calling on the Israeli occupation to honor its international commitments to ensure the protection and sanctity of UN facilities.
The commission urged the Israeli occupation to comply with international law, immediately halt measures targeting UNRWA buildings, and respect the agency’s mandate.
It reaffirmed its “steadfast and unwavering support” for UNRWA and for the continued implementation of its core mission to provide essential services to Palestinian refugees until a just and lasting resolution is achieved.
The statement comes amid a broader campaign of legislative and political measures targeting UNRWA. On December 29, the Israeli Knesset approved a bill cutting electricity and water supplies to UNRWA offices, which took effect immediately after passage by a vote of 59 to 7.
The move drew widespread criticism as a violation of international law and United Nations resolutions, including UN General Assembly Resolution 302, which established UNRWA to support Palestinian refugees pending a just solution to their plight.
In October 2024, the Knesset also passed legislation imposing a comprehensive ban on UNRWA’s operations in the occupied Palestinian territories, further escalating tensions between the Israeli occupation and the UN agency.
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