UN calls on Israel to stop demolishing UNWRA headquarters | DW News

Key Concepts

• UNRWA (United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees in the Near East): The primary UN agency providing assistance and protection to Palestinian refugees.
• International Law & UN Conventions: The legal framework governing the rights and obligations of UN member states, particularly regarding UN premises and diplomatic immunity.
• Occupied Palestinian Territory: Refers to the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and the Gaza Strip.
• ICJ (International Court of Justice): The principal judicial organ of the United Nations.
• Hamas: A Palestinian Sunni-Islamist fundamentalist organization, designated as a terrorist group by the European Union.

Israeli Demolition of UNRWA Headquarters in East Jerusalem

The UN Secretary-General has condemned Israel’s demolition of the UNRWA headquarters compound in occupied East Jerusalem, an action initiated earlier today. Israel justifies the demolition by alleging collaboration between UNRWA and Hamas, a claim repeatedly denied by the UN. Hamas is recognized as a terrorist organization by the European Union. Jonathan Fowler, Senior Communications Manager for UNRWA, described the action as “absolutely shocking” and part of a “pattern of disregard for international law” reaching a “fever pitch” in recent weeks.

Legal Status and Ownership of the Anua Compound

Fowler emphasized that the demolished compound remains a United Nations premises, despite Israel’s claim of ownership. He stated, “The assertion that this is somehow owned by the state of Israel is completely false.” UNRWA staff were forced to vacate the compound in January 2025 due to Israeli legislation, but UN security personnel remained on site, maintaining its status as UN property. Fowler asserted that Israel’s claims of ownership have “no basis” and “no standing whatsoever.” He drew a parallel to the inviolability of embassies, citing established diplomatic conventions.

Violation of International Law and ICJ Rulings

The demolition is a “fragrant violation” of international legal obligations incumbent upon all UN member states. Fowler highlighted that this action constitutes a “slap in the face” to the International Court of Justice (ICJ), which has repeatedly affirmed UNRWA’s rights and Israel’s obligations, most recently in October. He warned that this sets a dangerous precedent, potentially threatening other UN organizations globally. As Fowler stated, “What happens to us today in the occupied Palestinian territory can all too easily happen to other UN organizations in the same place or indeed around the rest of the world.”

UNRWA’s Continued Operations in Palestinian Territories

Despite the challenges, UNRWA remains the largest UN organization operating within the Gaza Strip, maintaining a staff of approximately 12,000 throughout the ongoing conflict. These staff continue to provide essential services including healthcare, education, water purification, and waste removal. UNRWA also assists 30,000 individuals forcibly displaced from northern West Bank camps due to Israeli military operations. In occupied East Jerusalem, UNRWA operates a clinic serving tens of thousands of Palestine refugees, providing crucial healthcare access to the poorest members of the community.

Fowler noted that the ICJ has mandated Israel to facilitate UNRWA’s work, not impede it, but the reality is the opposite. He affirmed, “We can continue to do it,” despite the obstacles.

The Broader Context & UN’s 80th Anniversary

The demolition occurs amidst the devastation in Gaza and the targeting of UNRWA’s headquarters. Fowler framed this as a critical moment for the UN, as it approaches its 80th anniversary, emphasizing the need for the international community to uphold international law. He urged countries to “wake up to the harsh and dangerous realities” and prevent further erosion of international legal norms.

Synthesis/Conclusion

The demolition of the UNRWA headquarters represents a significant escalation in the disregard for international law within the occupied Palestinian territory. It underscores the challenges faced by UN agencies operating in conflict zones and highlights the urgent need for international intervention to protect the principles of the UN Charter and ensure the safety and effectiveness of humanitarian operations. The incident serves as a stark warning about the potential for broader implications for the UN system and the rule of law globally.