UN Accuses Israel of "Unprecedented Attack" as Demolitions Begin at Palestinian Refugee Compound

The United Nations has condemned Israel for what it describes as "an unprecedented attack" following demolition activities at a compound historically used by the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) for Palestinian refugees. Heavy machinery was observed dismantling structures on the site, which has been operational since 1951, as Israel plans to repurpose the area into a new settlement.

Why It Matters

The demolition of the UNRWA compound has fueled rising tensions between Israel and the United Nations, further complicating an already volatile situation in the region. The act not only raises substantial legal and humanitarian concerns but also reflects deeper political disputes regarding Israel’s treatment of Palestinian territories.

Key Developments

• Heavy machinery has commenced demolition of the UNRWA compound in East Jerusalem.
• Itamar Ben-Gvir, Israel’s national security minister, hailed the demolition as a significant achievement for governance in Jerusalem.
• The Israeli government has long accused UNRWA of harboring members of Hamas and claims that the agency poses a security threat to the state.
• UNRWA has denied these allegations and condemned the demolition as a breach of international law.
• The Israeli authorities justify the demolition by arguing that the compound is now vacant and that the UN can no longer claim immunity due to this status.

Full Report

Demolition Commences

The UN has expressed outrage as demolition began at a historically significant compound used by UNRWA in East Jerusalem. Israeli officials stated that the site was set to be converted into residential settlements. Ben-Gvir visited the site and characterized the demolition as a pivotal moment, while asserting that UNRWA staff had connections to terrorist groups.

UN’s Response

UNRWA has consistently refuted allegations of collusion with Hamas, stating that it has investigated all claims of impropriety. The agency condemned the demolition as not just a physical act, but a blatant violation of international law, particularly under the principles outlined in its 1946 charter which protects UN sites.

Israeli Justifications

A spokesperson for Israel’s foreign ministry indicated that the demolition complied with both Israeli and international law, claiming that the site was a dangerous entity that could not remain operational. The Israeli government portrays its actions as necessary for national security, despite protests from the international community.

Reactions from Other Powers

The Palestinian Authority referred to the demolitions as a steep escalation and a violation of global legal norms, voicing concerns about the implications for UN operations. Former UNRWA chief Hamas Shahwa criticized the act as a clear indication that Israel disregards international law with impunity.

Context & Previous Events

Since 2024, Israel has enacted legislation aimed at curtailing UNRWA’s operations, leading to a significant withdrawal of personnel from the compound. The area in question is within territory captured in the 1967 War, further complicating the matter under prevailing interpretations of international law. Just weeks before the demolition, Israeli authorities had entered the site, removed equipment, and raised an Israeli flag, substantiating claims of tax arrears owed by UNRWA.

The tensions surrounding this compound highlight the broader conflicts between Israel and the UN, particularly ongoing disputes over humanitarian conditions in Gaza and charges of human rights violations leveled against Israel by various UN entities.